Hotel Gritti Palace, Italy
Ernest Hemingway once called it "the best hotel in a city of great hotels," Greta Garbo made it her Venetian home away from home, and Conde Nast Traveler named it to its 2005 Gold List -- we certainly wouldn't argue with them. Reigning on the Grand Canal, with spectacular water views, the Hotel Gritti Palace was built in 1525 as the residence of the Doge of Venice, Andrea Gritti. Today it attracts the elite and luminaries like the British Royal family and many a Hollywood star, with its luxurious rooms and amenities, and mouth-watering cuisine.
You'll take pleasure in feeling like the aristocrat you are in your large, luxurious room, and enthrall in being spoiled with palatial service (you deserve it!). Small details like fresh flowers, fine antiques, grand appointments, and old-fashion service make the Gritti a palace to remember.
Bonus: May through October, enjoy private round-trip boat service to Venice Lido, where the hotel’s sister hotels, The Westin Excelsior and The Hotel Des Bains, await with private beach facilities, swimming pools, tennis, and golf.
Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Gritti