Known for stylish living with aesthetic overtones of comfort and technology, Hotel Martinez was built more than 70 years ago. It is a waterfront hotel that has firmly established itself over the decades as the flagship hotel on the Riviera and one of the top luxury properties in Europe. The beautiful exterior architecture of the seven-story hotel lends itself to a timeless and elegant eternal youth that transcends into the spacious and extravagant interior. Comprised of 412 rooms and suites, the hotel features three on-site restaurants, including the Michelin-starred La Palme d’Or, a piano bar, vast private beach, heated pool, and 15 meeting rooms and reception lounges, making it a popular destination no matter what time of year. With its prime location on the prestigious La Croisette, the hotel overlooks the palm tree-lined avenue that leads to the golden beaches of the French Riviera.
Hotel Martinez
73 Boulevard de la Croisette
06400 Cannes, France
04 92 98 73 00
www.hotel-martinez.com
When land travels become mundane, there is nothing that can compare with the luxuries aboard a private yacht. When the captain of MS Europa came calling for us, we happily complied with his commands for cruise line enjoyment. Setting international standards, the MS Europa is the ideal destination for a luxurious private sphere with an obliging staff. The ship accommodates 408 guests and is comprised solely of suites. Once guests have boarded this award-winning vessel they are privy to single seating dining at the Europa Restaurant where they can order from an a la carte menu while gazing out large panoramic windows. There are two additional dining options at the more intimate specialty restaurants Oriental and Venezia where the very best of Euro-Asia and Italian cuisine are served. The ship also features the various cruise amenities and activities, all which guarantee relaxation in sophisticated surroundings. For onboard shopping needs, I recommend the exclusive high-end boutiques on the Promenade.
MS EUROPA
www.hl-cruises.com
But if leaving the U.S. doesn’t tickle your fancy this year, a trip to New York to take in the culinary delights at da Umberto is certainly a must. Da Umberto, open since 1988, is nestled in the heart of Chelsea and offers a delectable menu, an extremely palatable wine list, and a personal touch from its staff, which helps to explain why many call this the most authentic Italian restaurant in the entire city. There is an inviting bar and naturally lit dining room that quickly fills nightly with patrons. Dishes you won’t want to pass up on include house-made pasta; grilled fish; Porterhouse steak for two; roast suckling pig with wild fennel; and sushi grade tuna with spice rub and salsa verde.
Da Umberto
107 W. 17th St., New York
212-989-0303
www.daumbertonyc.com
