Soniat House Hotel | New Orleans French Quarter

I can think of no more romantic hotel in New Orleans than Soniat House in the French Quarter. You feel it when you step through the front doors and into the courtyard. This Small Luxury Hotels of the World boutique property exudes elegance and is completely New Orleans in aesthetic without being overdone. I had the opportunity to visit Soniat House recently and meet with the owner, Mr. Smith. No doubt that part of this property's charm is Mr. Smith himself - an elegant man often seen walking about, greeting guests, mingling with staff, straightening pictures on the wall, making sure everything is just 'so.' If your next visit to New Orleans needs to be special, like really special, make it Soniat House. It's one that you'll remember for the rest of your life.

Soniat House Hotel | 1133 Chartres Street | New Orleans, Louisiana

Lila
For booking a suite at Soniat House, contact me directly at lila@smartflyer.com.

New Orleans French Quarter Festival | April 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

French Quarter Festival, April 2013 - New Orleans, Louisiana
Images, are mine

Spring Travels | Talking Napa w/ Taigan's Fetch Magazine

Napa Valley is one of those classic destinations that has somehow managed to trump trends. It’s just always a good idea, particularly during the spring months of April & May. And as a travel advisor, it’s one of the more popular destinations I’ve been getting inquiries on lately. So I thought I’d share a few of my personal recommendations – from where to stay and eat, to the winery that always makes it into my itineraries. Plus the perfect Taigan shift dress to have you touring the wineries in comfort and style. Click here to be redirected to the article.

Happy Travels,
Lila

The Sukhothai | Bangkok

Trying desperately to sleep but wanting to stay awake for the moment. Looking around me, it appeared everyone else was doing the same on the 7-hr flight from Tokyo to Thailand. Then, upon our approach into Bangkok, the cabin came alive. Bodies shifting toward the windows to get a first glimpse. And it was as if the pilot knew it, tilting and banking, showing off the city before coming in for a landing.

After making it rather quickly through customs, I hopped into a cab and whisked to the city center straight to my hotel, The Sukhothai. Arriving shortly after 1 in the morning... and after nearly 30 hours of travel... was like entering Eden. Quite literally too - flowering trees, plants, reflection pools, welcoming faces. My first impression of this acclaimed, graceful hotel was a mighty one. 

Tui, one of the managers, greeted me by name as another gentleman took my bags from my tired arms. While Tui led me to my suite he pointed out the Salon, adjacent to the main lobby, as the location for lavish chocolate and tea. Tui had me pegged in the 10 minutes that he knew me. He also gave me a brief history lesson in that the hotel is named for the capital of Thailand's ancient Sukhothai Kingdom known for its beauty, distinct style, and architecture. My suite was a true extension of that - Thai silk, soft music, gorgeous teakwood, bronze, marble, fresh flowers, exotic fruit, and bedside truffles. Laying my head down that first night in Thailand was almost an indescribable feeling. How do you put into words the feeling of finally arriving at a place you've wanted to for so long? 

The next morning I threw open the curtains to this sight. Glancing just above was the Bangkok skyline. I couldn't wait to get my feet on the ground & explore! But first, room service.

Before hitting the streets of Bangkok, I had the opportunity to explore the property from tip to tip with Sukhothai's Director of Sales, Mr. Sato. He & I walked the grounds, popping into several rooms so I could see the different accommodation options. We also visited the Spa Botanica, the Pool, The Lawn (perfect garden venue for events and receptions) and both highly-praised restaurants - Celadon, serving authentic Thai, and La Scala, offering fine Italian dining. And mustn't forget about Thimian, a gourmet cafe with the most delectable macarons in every flavor conceivable. Every hotel should have a Thimian.

The Sukhothai's location, just steps away from the River, shopping, and markets make it an ideal base with which to explore Bangkok. I personally like it because it's a little respite from the hustle and bustle, and your every desire is simply catered to, with a smile. And, let's be honest, a simple elegantly designed hotel gets me every time.

Thank you to Joe Cauchi (Regional Director of Sales - America), Hisakazu Sato (Director of Sales - Asia) and Kriangkrai Jaiboon (Tui) for making my visit so special.

The Sukhothai Bangkok is one of my partner hotels. Contact me at (504) 717-6144 or lila@smartflyer.com for information on exclusive benefits such as an upgrade on arrival (subject to availability), daily breakfast for 2 guests each morning, and complimentary lunch or dinner at Celadon Restaurant.

Lila
Images, taken January 2013

Planning Mykonos, Greece + a Mojito Recipe

Sunday afternoon was spent buttoning up a very special client's itinerary to Istanbul (love that they wanted a 24-hr extended layover!) & Greece. While selecting the perfect hotels in Mykonos & Rhodes for these gals, something about the blue waters and fab pools that had me craving a fresh mint cocktail. And it just so happened that my mint needed snipping, and we had a nearly full bottle of rum in the bar, how utterly convenient... and refreshing!

Greek Isles Inspired Mojitos
Fresh mint sprigs to taste
Old New Orleans Rum
Simple Syrup
Club Soda
Ice

Crush the mint leaves in a cocktail shaker (I just used the end of a wooden spoon). Once completely crushed, add equal parts simple syrup and rum to 1/3 full. Fill with club soda and shake. Add more syrup / rum / soda to taste. Leaving the strainer on your cocktail shaker, pour into glasses filled with ice and serve. Makes (2) servings.

Enjoy -
Lila

Our Top 5 Swimsuits | 2013 Vacationing

From St. Lucia to San Diego, and Croatia to Kauai, I'm in the thick of summer holiday planning for clients! And I can't help but mentally go to summer holiday packing, and that perfect swimsuit. Here's a roundup of my favorites, because you all know I'm a huge fan of the one-piece - whether you're lounging poolside or kicking a paddle down a river atop a kayak.

No.1- Michael Kors $120, No.2- Nanette Lapore $144, No.3- Roxy $82, No.4- O'Neill $64, No.5- Lola Bali $75 all from Zappos.com

-Lila