Making its debut in August 2023, this property isn’t just new to New York City–it’s Hilton’s very first Tempo hotel. The Tempo brand caters to wellness-focused travelers who want to maintain their daily routines while exploring new destinations. While the energetic buzz of Times Square pulses just outside, the hotel offers a peaceful sanctuary for guests seeking a calm retreat from the city’s endless excitement.

The Location

Standing in the heart of Times Square, you can’t miss TSX Broadway, a gleaming 46-story tower that’s a new addition to Manhattan’s skyline. The tower houses retail space, the historic Palace Theatre, and the Tempo Hotel, which occupies 36 floors.

The Tempo has its own entrance on the ground floor at the corner of 47th Street and 7th Avenue, but guests must take an elevator to the 11th floor to reach the lobby. 

This prime location puts guests within walking distance to many famous New York City landmarks, including Broadway Theatre, Rockefeller Center, and Radio City Music Hall. The hotel is within easy reach of a number of different transportation hubs, and both Grand Central Station and Penn Station are under a mile away. 

The Rooms

The Tempo’s guest rooms are remarkably spacious for a central Manhattan hotel, starting at a generous 235 square feet. Each room showcases the city through dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows, while natural light wood tones create a serene sanctuary from the urban energy below.

Rest comes easily on the exclusive Sealy Accelerate mattresses, specially designed for Tempo properties. The unexpectedly roomy bathrooms elevate the experience with full-sized Apotheke amenities and a clever touch—a Bluetooth-enabled mirror speaker perfect for livening up your morning routine. Practical amenities aren’t forgotten, with each room featuring a minifridge for drinks or dining leftovers.

For fitness enthusiasts, nine specially designed Wellness Rooms offer an innovative perk: an in-room Peloton bike positioned by the window, complete with access to the full workout library via flatscreen TV—no subscription needed. These wellness-focused havens also come equipped with yoga mats and resistance bands.

We stayed in one of the 31 coveted Ball Drop corner rooms, offering an unforgettable perspective on Times Square. From this privileged vantage point, you could spy on the famous New Year’s Eve ball and watch the constant theater of street performers and crowds below.

Dining

Need to grab a quick bite on the go? Tempo’s partnership with Bluestone Lane, the renowned Australian-inspired coffee roaster and cafe, is the perfect place to start your day. Their Grab & Go section offers a selection of healthy options, from seasonal salads and artisanal sandwiches to fresh fruit and an array of specialty espresso drinks, teas, and juices.

For a more leisurely dining experience, head to Highball, the hotel’s signature restaurant, which features shareable plates with nods to local dishes, like reimagined New York-style hot dogs and artisanal sliders.

Amenities

It’s no surprise that the star amenity at this wellness-focused hotel is the fitness center, which is open 24/7 for guests. This light-filled room has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city, Peloton bikes, an array of cardio and strength equipment, and a filtered water station to refill your water bottle for the day.

Price and How to Book

Room rates start at around $215 per night and can be booked on Expedia.

Editor’s Note: The Hilton Tempo Times Square hosted the author of this story.

The post Tempo by Hilton Times Square Review: A Wellness Hotel in a Coveted Location appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Dragsholm Castle

Built in 1200, the Dragsholm Castle is not only one of the oldest castles in Denmark, it is also the home to many of the longest-staying guests. Though there isn’t an exact number of spirited figures who still roam the grounds—some believe the number to be in the hundreds—there are three who make a particular impression: the Grey Lady, the White Lady, and the Earl of Bothwell.

Visitors may encounter the Grey Lady in their rooms at night, because even in her death, this grateful spirit still keeps a close eye on the castle grounds to make sure things are in order. When the Grey Lady was alive, she was believed to be a worker who suffered from a horrible toothache, which was cured by someone in the castle. She has been repaying the kind deed ever since.

The White Lady’s tale is by far more tragic, and begins with the discovery, during a renovation in the early 20th century, of a young girl’s skeleton in a white dress hidden within a wall. Legend has it that these bones once belonged to the daughter of the castle’s former owner. She fell madly in love with a commonplace worker, and when her father learned of the affair he had her locked within a room in the castle, never to see the light of day again. Her young spirit has been seen roaming the halls at night, perchance searching for her lost love.

The Earl of Bothwell, James Hepburn, a consort to Mary, Queen of Scots, was imprisoned for murder in the Dragsholm Castle cellars, where he eventually went mad and died in 1578. Visitors can see the same pillar where the Earl was once chained, and if they’re lucky, they may even catch a glimpse of the Earl riding into the courtyard with a horse and carriage. Some visitors have even claimed to hear the sound of horses when there’s nothing there.

Today, Dragsholm Castle is a hotel, restaurant, and a museum. Rooms start around $226 USD per night, and include breakfast. The hotel also offers guided tours exploring the castle’s 800-year history.

Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast

You may have heard of Lizzie Borden from the playground rhyme, “Lizzie Borden took an axe/ And gave her mother 40 whacks/ When she saw what she had done/ She gave her father 41.” However, the mystery surrounding the murders of Andrew and Abby Borden is much more complicated than a simple child’s game.

For instance, Lizzie was never found guilty for the slaying of her father and stepmother, and to this day, the case remains unsolved. Come decide for yourself what actually happened on the morning of August 4, 1892, by staying in the house in Fall River, Massachusetts, where it all took place. Choose from six rooms, including the one where Abby Borden’s body was discovered. Retrace the gruesome events by starting your morning with a breakfast reminiscent of the ones the Bordens ate as their last meal.

You may even encounter the restless spirit of Lizzie herself. Some who have stayed here have heard giggling. Others claim to feel a chill in certain spots of the house. And, those who snap photos seem to always catch an orb or possibly the faint outline of a face.

Rooms are typically in the $250 to $315 range per night, with prices known to spike during high season. However, if you’d like to learn more about the infamous murders without spending the night, you can tour the property during daylight hours for $30.

Fairmont Banff Springs

The Fairmont Banff Springs, “Canada’s Castle in the Rockies,” has seen many prestigious guests since it first opened its doors more than 120 years ago. In fact, some liked the place so well that they never left.

This is the case with Sam the Bellman, who worked at the hotel for many years. Before his death, Sam joked that he would return to the hotel he held so dearly in the afterlife. Many guests will attest that Sam kept his word.

The first sighting was by two elderly ladies who couldn’t get the key to work in their room door. Feeling uneasy because of the late hour and darkened corridor, they called the front desk for assistance and were told to wait for the bellman. However, when the bellman arrived, the ladies were already safely in their room. When asked how they managed that, they stated that the gray-haired bellman had appeared moments after they called and opened the door for them. The young bellman was bewildered since no one matching that description worked at the hotel. Since that time, the elderly bellhop with a Scottish brogue has been assisting guests and keeping a watchful eye on his hotel.

Visitors may also encounter the spirit of a young bride. Close to the time of the hotel’s grand opening in the 1930s, a groom waited in the library at the top of a candlelit, winding, limestone staircase for his true love to ascend. As she made her way up the stairs, her hem of her dress brushed against one of the candle’s flames and caused her to jump back, which sent her tumbling to her death. Guests claim to occasionally see her, still dressed in her white lace gown, dancing her wedding waltz alone, without her love.

Rooms start at roughly $400 per night, with many in the $500-$600 range, but there are plenty of package deals available to keep your heart from racing.

The Stanley Hotel

Built in the early 1900s, the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, has hosted many guests, including the master of horror, Stephen King. While staying in room 217, King was inspired to write The Shining, about a grand hotel in the Rocky Mountains that possesses its guests. Though most of King’s inspiration came from his own twisted imagination, the Stanley is home to a few spirits.

The most notable ghost is the original owner, F.O. Stanley, who has been spotted in the lobby and the billiard room. His wife, Flora, who once entertained guests with her skillful piano playing in the ballroom, still plays to this day. Hotel staff have heard music coming from that room, and have even seen the piano keys moving—though the music stops abruptly once they enter.

The greatest activity, however, is said to take place on the fourth floor, especially in room 418. When the room is empty, strange noises emanate from behind the doors. Guests often report hearing children’s laughter in the hallway at night. The staff has even seen an imprint on the bed, although no one had been sleeping there.

Rooms start at around $250 per night. If you really want to get your supernatural feet wet, book the spirited Night Tour during your stay. For just $30 per person, explore the haunted history of this grand hotel under the cover of darkness.

Gosforth Hall Inn

Built in 1658 by Robert Copley, who was suspected of being a Roman Catholic at a time when that meant death, the Gosforth Hall Inn has long been a sanctuary for lost souls. The inn may not publicly advertise its uninvited guests, but the owners are happy to share their experiences if asked.

And there’s plenty to talk about. Some guests have seen curtains billow in a room with no wind, felt the playful presence of a child, and even met apparitions in their rooms at night.

Room 11 is not only the biggest room at the inn, but it’s also the most popular for otherworldly sightings. The room has what people believe to be a priest’s hole (a hiding place for priests during the Roman Catholic persecution). At night, guests have woken to see a man dressed as a monk or friar, sitting next to the hole. Another guest once encountered a little old lady wearing an off-white dress and hair pulled back into a bun floating above the floor by the window, who vanished the moment the guest spoke.

There’s also the tale that Copley built the upper stories from the timbers of ship wrecks found along the Irish coast. The story goes that the timbers groan in anguish for the men whose final moments were spent clinging to their sturdy wood before the sea claimed their lives. Visitors who listen carefully just might hear a few final pleas for help.

Basic rooms start at £110 (about $122 U.S.; check XE.com for current exchange rates) per night, and include breakfast.

The Marshall House

Savannah has a reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the U.S., so it’s only fitting its first hotel would be a premier gathering place for restless souls. Built in 1851, the Marshall House has accommodated yellow fever victims, and was once used as a Union clinic for wounded soldiers during the Civil War.

In the 1960s, the amputated bones of patients were unearthed while renovating the hotel, and hotel guests have been reporting stories of creepy encounters ever since. For instance, some guests wake to the feeling of someone holding their wrist, much in the same way nurses would take a pulse. Others have felt the presence of a little girl rumored to be searching for her father who died in one of the rooms.

Rooms start around $230 for weekday stays during high season. If you’d rather hear the stories than experience them first-hand, you can always schedule a haunted walking tour for $29. You’ll stop at many of Savannah’s eerie establishments, including the Marshall House.

Villa di Corliano

Recognized as one of the most prestigious Renaissance villas in Tuscany, Villa di Corliano‘s luxury and grandeur is more than enough reason to never leave—even after the body has given up the ghost. Built in the 15th century, the building’s exterior is decorated in graffiti typical of the Florentine Mannerist Art and dating back to the 1500s.

The villa has been home to and welcomed many prestigious guests throughout its time. In fact, it is one such person that is thought to remain on the grounds to this day.

By the light of a full moon, guests have encountered a noblewoman, known as the “White Ghost,” lurking in their rooms. Some local peasants even claimed once to see her in the drive of the park leading a six-horse coach, where she stopped at the Ragnaia, or “Cobweb Corner,” to stare longingly at the villa which they believed was once her home. Known also as a good-natured spirit, she is also responsible for moving tapestries and rearranging ornaments, and a slamming door or mysteriously opened window is considered her handiwork. Occasionally the underground passageways beneath the wine cellar ring with giggling or the sound of footsteps. There is also the account of one night when the hall was filled with the thunderous sound of the crystal chandelier crashing to the floor, but when the chandelier was found, it was right where it should be without one crystal out of place.

So, who is the “White Ghost?” Speculative fingers point to the direction of Maria Teresa Scolastica Ottavia della Seta Gaetani Bocca who was married at the villa in 1755, but there is very little to support that claim. For now, her identity remains as mysterious as her presence in the villa.

Rooms start at €85-$140 (about $95-$156 U.S.; check XE.com for current exchange rates) per night, and include breakfast.

The Admiral Fell Inn

With a history dating back to the 1700s, the Admiral Fell Inn once served as a safe haven for sailors while their ships called at Baltimore. The historic hotel still maintains the same home-away-from-home appeal for all travelers today, whether they have a pulse or not.

One of the more notable supernatural occurrences happened during Hurricane Isabel in 2003, when the hotel was evacuated except for a few managers. During the night, merriment and dancing could be heard above the lobby, but the only breathing people in the hotel were on the ground floor. The next night, the noises became so loud that the floor actually vibrated.

Rooms start in the $150-$200 range, but if you dare not spend the night, you can embark on a Fells Point Ghost Tour to see what other apparitions are hiding in this seaside town.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The post The 8 Scariest Haunted Hotels in the World appeared first on SmarterTravel.

About 10,000 hotel workers walked off of their jobs over the weekend, one of the busiest travel weekends of the year, due to unresolved contract negotiations. Members of the UNITE HERE union are asking for “higher wages, fair staffing and workloads, and the reversal of COVID-era cuts.” Many workers live paycheck to paycheck, and their pay does not cover the cost of living. 

Workers in nine cities and twenty-six hotels are currently on strike, and the possibility of more strikes looms large if no resolution is found. The cities with current strikes are Boston, Greenwich, Honolulu, Kauai, San Francisco, San Diego, San Jose, Baltimore, and Seattle. The list of hotels with striking workers can be found here and will be updated live as more hotels join and as the strikes end. UNITE HERE represents workers from Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott hotels. 

Many hotel workers are struggling during a time when hotels posted record-high daily rates and revenue, yet many hotels remain understaffed. 

If you’re nervous about an upcoming trip or are currently staying at a hotel impacted by the strikes, we’ve got answers to common questions you may have.

What If There Is a Strike at the Hotel Where I am Staying? 

As travelers, this is a legitimate concern. As difficult as it may be, you should never cross a picket line, so if you are staying at an affected hotel, ask for a refund and rebook at a different hotel. FairHotel.org allows you to search for your hotel to see if a strike may impact it. 

If rebooking is impossible for some reason (there is no other hotel in the area, and all other hotels are sold out), ask management to determine how the strike will impact housekeeping, room service, and amenities. 
Be kind and considerate to those workers still working, as their workload is likely much higher than what it typically is. If you have to cross the picket line, talk to those striking, and show your support for them. Remember: they aren’t protesting you, they are protesting management.

I Have a Future Booking At A Hotel That is Currently Striking

If you are booked for a stay at a hotel with workers who are currently striking, what you do depends heavily on when your trip is. If your trip is within the next week, try to find another hotel in the area that is not part of the strike. If it is well into the future, keep an eye on the news, and as you get closer to your vacation, if the hotels are still striking, rebook it elsewhere. 

What Hotels Are Impacted by the Strike?

As mentioned above, UNITE HERE represents workers from Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott hotels. While it is only a handful of their hotels that are currently impacted by the strike, consider booking at a different hotel if you have an upcoming stay at one of those hotels, just to be safe. 

Alternate Hotels Due to The Strike

Here are some alternate hotels to book in each city that is impacted by the strike: 

Boston – Encore Boston Harbor

Greenwich – Delamar Greenwich Harbor

Honolulu – Ala Moana Hotel

Kauai – OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa

San Francisco – Chancellor Hotel

San Diego – Hotel Del Coronado

San Jose – Four Points by Sheraton San Jose Downtown

Baltimore – Horseshoe Casino Baltimore

Seattle – Coast Seattle Downtown Hotel by APA

Check out UNITE HERE’s guide for further tips on what to do during a strike, including what to do if you are invited to a wedding at a hotel with striking workers. 

The post How Your Trip May Be Impacted By the Hotel Worker Strike appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Unfortunately, these tiny plastic bottles are wasteful and have a significant environmental impact. New York State has just passed a bill banning small “hospitality care” bottles beginning on January 1, 2025. Hotels in the state will only be allowed to provide toiletries in bottles that are 12 ounces or larger. Any properties found in violation will be charged $250 for the first offense and $500 for each additional transgression. 

The law will initially only apply to hotels with more than 50 rooms, and smaller hotels will have to comply with the new rules beginning January 1, 2026.

Currently, California is the only other state with a similar ban in place. Washington state has passed similar legislation set to take effect in 2027.

Most hotels will likely transition to offering refillable, full-size toiletry bottles. However, these larger containers may raise concerns about hygiene and potential tampering by other guests.

We recommend investing in a set of travel-sized bottles that you can refill with your own toiletries in between trips. Although it takes away the fun of trying new products on the road, it means you’re guaranteed to have products you know work for your hair and skin and prevents you from being caught off-guard when the in-room products are not refilled. These refillable bottles from Matador are our favorite, as they are a flat design that saves space in your toiletries kit. 

The post New York State Bans Travel Size Toiletries in Hotels appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The hotel prides itself on attentive service from its staff, who are trained to cater to guests’ needs throughout their stay. The accommodations are designed with an eye for sophistication, offering spacious rooms and high-end amenities (like Dyson Air Wraps and second computer monitors) that make your stay exceptional. Situated in the heart of the city, the hotel’s location allows guests to easily explore D.C.’s major attractions. 

For those looking to indulge, The Ritz-Carlton Washington, D.C. has the option to book rooms on the Club Level, which include access to a private lounge that serves unlimited food and drinks throughout the day.  

The Location

There are two Ritz-Carlton properties in Washington, D.C., located just under one mile apart (the other property is in Georgetown). We reviewed the Ritz Carlton on 22nd Street, in the Foggy Bottom/West End neighborhood. 

The hotel is close to several Metro stations and is approximately one mile from the National Mall and many iconic D.C. attractions. 

It’s also easily accessible from Ronald Regan Washington National Airport (DCA), which is less than a 20-minute drive (or a similar ride on the Metro).

Dining

The Ritz-Carlton offers two distinct restaurant experiences for guests. The first is The Saga, a high-end Spanish restaurant helmed by renowned Chef Enrique Limardo. This establishment features inventive Spanish cuisine with Latin influences and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Saga’s tapas bar is open in the evenings and is a fun place for dinner if you want to try a variety of dishes. 

For those seeking a more lounge-like atmosphere, Quadrant Bar & Lounge is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Grab tickets to Quadrant’s frequent live music events for a lively night out.

In addition to its dine-in options, The Ritz-Carlton also offers 24-hour room service for guests.

The Rooms

The rooms at The Ritz-Carlton Washington, D.C. are a serene haven from the busy city, providing a tranquil escape in the heart of downtown. Designed with a sophisticated color palette of slate gray and blue hues, complemented by chic accent patterns, bold graphic carpets, and brass accents, these accommodations create a modern yet comfortable ambiance. Cheeky design nods to Washington, D.C., such as an artsy photo of the infamously long escalators in the Metro station and a silhouette portrait of Abraham Lincoln, lend a sense of place and set the rooms apart from a generic hotel experience.

Spacious and stylish, these accommodations offer ample room and thoughtful amenities like dedicated sitting areas and numerous USB ports to ensure a comfortable workspace. For those working remotely, the hotel can even provide the convenience of a second monitor upon request.

I stayed in a spacious 450-square-foot Club Level Deluxe King room room. In addition to a plush king-sized bed topped with Frette linens, the room offered plenty of space to relax, including a couch, a cozy armchair, and a small workspace. The Italian marble bathroom was equally impressive, with a separate soaking tub, shower, and water closet. The bathroom was stocked with full-size Diptique toiletries and even a flat iron in addition to the blow dryer, a rare (but appreciated) hotel amenity. 

Service

One of the Ritz-Carlton Washington, D.C.’s greatest strengths lies in its expert staff. Each team member exudes attentiveness, friendliness, and a willingness to go above and beyond, ensuring a perfect stay for every guest. Throughout my visit, I was delighted by countless thoughtful touches that elevated the experience. Upon leaving or arriving at the hotel, I was consistently offered chilled bottled water, a welcome reprieve on hot and humid D.C. days. Even more remarkable was the surprise of finding a white chocolate replica of the Washington Monument in my room, a delightful and personal touch that left a lasting impression.

Amenities

Although the Ritz-Carlton doesn’t have its own fitness center, guests can use the attached Equinox Sports Club for a $15 per day fee (the fee is waived for club level guests). This massive multi-level gym is one of the best in D.C., featuring a pool and modern equipment such as Woodway treadmills.

Other amenities include:

• 24-Hour Room Service
• Turndown Service
• Laundry/dry cleaning
• Luxurious robes and slippers
• Free Wifi
• Free coffee and tea
• Complimentary presidential-themed cookies and drinks in the lobby

Club Level

The Club Level adds another layer of luxury to the already elevated Ritz Carlton experience. Club Level guests have access to the Club Lounge, located on the ninth floor. The club lounge is open from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. and serves breakfast, lunch, light snacks, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and drinks at various times of the day.

All food and beverages are complimentary. The lounge is well stocked with liquor, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages, including sparkling water, fresh fruit juices, and other snacks. 

Club-level guests also receive the following perks:

• Complimentary access to the Equinox Sports Club
• Pressing of two items per day
• Private concierge service
• Complimentary coffee or tea with a wake-up call

My favorite perk was the coffee wake-up call—simply let the front desk know what time you want to be woken up, and someone will knock on your door with coffee and tea. There’s something extra decadent about starting your day with a hot beverage in bed. 

The club-level staff is extremely attentive and remembers each guest by name. The dedicated Club concierge reached out to me before my stay to see if I had any requests and was able to arrange for amenities (like an in-room fitness kit, second computer monitor, and Dyson Air Wrap) to be waiting for me in my room upon arrival. 

Price and How to Book

Room rates start at around $480 per night, and Club Level rooms start at around $749 per night. Book now on Expedia for the best rates.

Book Now

Editor’s Note: The Ritz Carlton Washington D.C. hosted the author of this story.

The post SmarterTravel Spotlight: Ritz Carlton, Washington DC Review appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Introducing the Next-Generation Westin Heavenly Bed

The Westin Heavenly Bed is about to get even better, as the hotel brand is rolling out a new and improved version across its more than 240 hotels worldwide. The next-generation Heavenly Bed boasts upgrades like a temperature-regulating gel-infused memory foam mattress, hypoallergenic bedding, and a duvet insert designed to keep hot sleepers cool throughout the night.

“Understanding the devoted fanbase the legacy bed has garnered over the years; our goal was to listen and carefully review every aspect of the guest and associate experience, ensuring each update was both intentional and impactful,” Brian Povinelli, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Marketing and Brand, Marriott International, said regarding the new design. “We are confident that it will exceed the expectations of both loyal and future Westin guests across the globe and again raise the bar for the comfort of our guests.” 

As a Westin Heavenly Bed devotee myself, I was curious if the new sleep system was really any better—and if it would feel as luxurious at home.The Westin Store, Westin’s online store, allows travelers to recreate the Heavenly Bed experience at home, selling every aspect of the bed for delivery. I tested the Westin Hotel Sheet Set, which includes a fitted sheet, flat sheet, two white pillowcases, and two border pillowcases; along with the Hotel Duvet Cover. 

The Westin Hotel Sheet Set

My favorite thing about sleeping in a luxury hotel bed is how crisp and cool the sheets feel, even on the hottest days. The Westin Hotel Sheet Set delivers this same experience at home. The 310-thread count sateen weave, made from a blend of lyocell and cotton, is incredibly soft and breathable. This blend also features eco-friendly credentials, as the lyocell is derived from eucalyptus and other botanical fibers.

The fitted sheet has extra deep pockets, which means it stayed in place on my pillowtop mattress and didn’t pop off as some cheaper sheets do. I also loved the sateen weave finish, which resisted wrinkling and made my bed look instantly elegant. 

The Westin Hotel Duvet Cover

The Westin Hotel Duvet Cover has a stylish new design. A subtle organic pattern jacquard stitched into the fabric enhances the all-white look. Even after accidentally abandoning the duvet cover in the dryer for a few hours, it emerged wrinkle-free, thanks to the cotton/microfilament fabric blend. 

The duvet cover also helped me sleep cooler at night, even though I wasn’t using a Westin duvet insert.

Overall, I found the new Westin Heavenly Bed to be an improvement over the beloved former iteration—and that the bedding is just as luxe at home as it is in the hotel.

The post How to Recreate the Westin Heavenly Bed at Home appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Fortunately, there are a few hacks you can use to utilize hotel reviews effectively and ensure a truly enjoyable stay. Follow these tips to use reviews to your advantage so you make an informed decision about a hotel before booking. 

Sort by Lowest Review First

Review sites generally use an algorithm to display whatever reviews they deem as the “most relevant.” Disregard that order, and instead sort by lowest-rated reviews first. Read through the reviews for legitimate complaints that would impact your stay, but be sure to disregard reviews that won’t impact your trip or are just plain ridiculous.

For example, suppose several low-rated reviews are from people who complain about expensive parking, but you’re not planning on driving to the property. In that case, you can ignore those reviews when deciding whether or not to book. Or, if a one-star reviewer complains that they didn’t stay at the hotel but couldn’t get a reservation at the resort’s restaurant, you can also dismiss that. 

However, if a legitimate complaint frequently surfaces among bad reviews, calling out things like uncomfortable beds or unclean rooms, it’s likely that you’ll encounter the same issues when you stay. 

Consider Management Responses

Reading the lowest-rated reviews can provide valuable insights beyond just the specific complaints themselves. It can also reveal how the hotel management handles criticism and addresses guest concerns. Be on the lookout for red flags, such as management responding in an unprofessional or angry manner to negative reviews. Such reactions may indicate how they would handle any issues that arise during your stay.

Similarly, if the hotel fails to respond or acknowledge negative reviews altogether, it could be a sign that it is unwilling to go the extra mile to rectify problems and ensure a positive experience for its guests. 

Keyword Search Reviews

Most booking sites allow you to filter reviews by specific keywords, a feature that greatly aids your hotel search. The first keyword I always look for is the word “bedbugs” because reports of those will be an immediate dealbreaker for me. 

If there are aspects of a stay that are particularly important to you, like location, noise level, or even shower pressure, take advantage of the search field to find out what other travelers are specifically saying about those factors. 

Use Reviews Request Specific Rooms

Ever got stuck in a room above a noisy hotel bar and had the music keep you up all night? Reading the reviews might have prevented that. For instance, some may caution against booking rooms on the street-facing side due to disruptive traffic noise throughout the night. 

These detailed reviews offer an opportunity to proactively request particular rooms when making your booking. Most hotels are willing to accommodate such requests as long as the room is within the same category that you originally booked.

Pay Attention to the Dates

Check the date on the reviews you’re reading, and pay more attention to reviews written in the last two years (but don’t completely dismiss older reviews). 

Reviews from several years ago may no longer accurately portray the hotel, as the property may have undergone renovations, impacting the resort’s condition. This also applies to lower reviews for complaints that happened a year or two ago—if an old review complains about construction noise, it’s unlikely that it will still be a problem today. 

Watch Out for Fake Reviews

Reading reviews of the same hotel across multiple platforms can help weed out fake reviews. If you see the same glowing review posted across numerous sites, it’s likely to be fake.

Remember that anyone can leave a hotel review on a site like TripAdvisor or Yelp, but hotel booking sites like Hotels.com or Booking.com only allow people who have booked through them to leave a review, helping to eliminate the risk of fake reviews. 

Look for Real Photos

The photos posted by hotels are similar to the ones people use on dating sites—flattering and edited to show the subject in the best light. User-generated pictures captured by amateur travelers often offer a far more realistic portrayal of what the hotel truly looks like.

Before finalizing your booking, take the time to browse through these candid snapshots and compare them against the polished images on the hotel’s website. 

The post Tips for Using Hotel Reviews to Find a Great Hotel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

All-Inclusive Gay-Friendly Resorts Around the World

While plenty of resorts welcome diverse travelers, some really roll out the rainbow carpets—whether they’re part of a gay-friendly brand; home to an out-and-proud LGBTQ+ staff; or part of a fabulous destination. Here are some of the top all-inclusive resorts for gay couples (and gay singles).

Click to read more about each property.

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Hyatt is among the large hotel chains that’s shown continuous support for LGBTQ+ travelers. The brand is a Gold Global Partner of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA), and has been honored for more than a decade as one of the HRC’s annually ranked Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality. One of the best all-inclusive resorts for gay couples is the Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta. For starters, the Pacific-Coast city is a hotspot for gay vacationers who love the nightlife and its annual mid-May Vallarta Pride festival. The Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta lures travelers to lodge a few miles south of town, where they can enjoy swim-up suites, live entertainment, fitness and sports programs, and dining with oceanfront views.

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Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

For an extra-dreamy luxury escape, LGBTQ+ travelers can wing down to the sunny Yucatan peninsula, where Banyan Tree Mayakoba awaits with private waterfront villas. While technically not completely all-inclusive, Banyan Tree has refined amenities, restaurants, and spa time, always evoking the brand’s Southeast-Asian heritage. But the resort’s respect for nature and local culture sets it apart, as does its pride in serving LGBTQ+ guests. Here gay couples can spend time in their villa’s private pool, cruising through the property’s mangrove forests, biking to the beach, or melting into an open-air couples’ massage. Book one of the resort’s three meal Complement options at checkout to have either breakfast and lunch, lunch and dinner, or all three included in your stay.

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Grand Palladium White Island Resort and Spa, Ibiza, Spain

As one of the world’s most vibrant gay destinations, Ibiza is a favorite for continental travelers—especially if they’re looking for a party. This Mediterranean island off the eastern coast of Spain is bursting with posh hotels and resorts. But for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking all-inclusive, beachfront luxury on a grand scale, the Grand Palladium White Island Resort and Spa is a suave choice. Along with Grand Palladium’s trademark contemporary design and range of on-site restaurants and entertainment, gay and lesbian guests can enjoy amenities like the Zentropia Spa & Wellness and its fully equipped gym, several pools and Jacuzzis, sports facilities, and direct beach access.

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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

If the rock-star life is calling, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana wants you to turn it up. Of all the brand’s LGBTQ+-friendly all-inclusive resorts, this Dominican Republic property amps up the on-site amenities with 13 pools (with swim-up bars and water slides), nine restaurants, five bars, Oro Nightclub, a salon, a Nicklaus-designed golf course, a huge casino, and live concerts. Parents let their kids find harmony at the Kidz Bop experience, especially while tuning their own vibes to resort’s Rock Spa, meditation, and musical fitness programs. The Hard Rock’s trademark amenities are all here, inviting guests to get expert instruction and accelerated stage training at the Music Lab, or to check out a guitar to shred on their own.

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Warwick Paradise Island, Bahamas

The Bahamas are rich with all-inclusive resort options, but at the Warwick Paradise Island, LGBTQ+ travelers can enjoy lodging in the company of adults only. The 250-room resort is more modest than the giant Atlantis and other island lodging, giving guests a bit more serenity whether lounging poolside, relaxing with an Amber Spa treatment, or sunbathing on the resort’s private white-sandy beach. Guestrooms are spacious and sleek, many of them have private balconies and water views. At the property’s five restaurants you can go casual or sophisticated, then grab a cocktail for nightly live entertainment.

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W Costa Rica Reserva Conchal, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Dive into the local pura vida spirit at sleek, oceanfront W Costa Rica Reserva Conchal. The W is part of Marriott International, a brand that’s long welcomed LGBTQ+ guests to its 6,000-plus properties and is an IGLTA Platinum Global Partner. At this oceanfront resort, located about 30 minutes from the Tamarindo Airport, vacationers can take in lush landscapes, white sands, and panoramic views. All-inclusive packages make relaxing easier, whether poolside on the WET Deck, at the Zona Azul beach club, or at the resort’s restaurants, each designed to channel Costa Rica’s local culture. The AWAY Spa offers treatments for couples and singles, a nice way to unwind after activities like bike rides, snorkeling, kayaking, surfing, or nature hikes.

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Sonesta Ocean Point All-Inclusive Adults Only Resort, St. Maarten

Registered with IGLTA, Sonesta Ocean Point Resort in St. Maarten provides everything you will need for an LGBTQ+ friendly tropical vacation. This adults-only resort-within-a-resort is adjacent to the more family-friendly Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa. Treat yourself to a Swim-Out Suite, which will connect you to the exclusive swim-out pool, enjoy a meal at one of the on-site restaurants, relax at the spa, or try your luck at the casino.

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Divi All Inclusive Resorts, Aruba

Aruba prides itself on its welcoming attitude to the LGBTQ+ community, and Divi All Inclusive resort embraces this. Guest rooms have panoramic ocean views, as well as private balconies or patios. The resort offers an array of activities from catamarans, windsurfing, snorkeling, an oceanfront fitness center, and 4 freshwater pools. Enjoy nightly entertainment with theme nights, and several bars for your favorite alcoholic beverages. 

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Excellence Playa Mujeres, Mexico

This boutique hotel has everything you need for the ultimate tropical vacation. No matter what type of accommodation you choose: imperial suite, swim up suite or ocean front suite, you will be immersed in luxury. Choose from ten a la carte restaurants, or get a snack at the poolside snack bar. Your day will be filled with activities⁠—from swimming in the pool, heading to the beach, scuba diving, salsa and merengue dance classes, archery, cooking lessons and more. 

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Miraval Arizona, USA

Get away from it all without your passport at Miraval Arizona. Miraval is a Hyatt brand, which has been a member of IGLTA for many years, making Miraval the perfect retreat destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. Nourish your body and soul by taking a yoga class, going horseback riding, attending a guided meditation class, paddleboarding, or a bevy of other health and wellness activities and classes. Their unlimited package includes $175 resort credit per night, unlimited classes, meals and non-alcoholic beverages, accommodations and a shuttle from the airport. 

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Royal Malewane, South Africa

South Africa is probably the most gay-friendly country in Africa, and Royal Malewane is a member of IGLTA, assuring your South African LGBTQ+ experience is as comfortable as it can be. Be awe-inspired with your safari stay within South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. Choose from three accommodation options: the more classic Lodge, the intimate Farmstead, and the immersive Waterside. Price includes all meals, South African reserve wines and beverages, daily game drives and bush walks and more. You’ll have a chance to get up close and personal with Africa’s “Big 5”—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and black rhinos during the game drive, so don’t forget your camera (or smartphone)!

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North Island, A Luxury Collection Resort, Seychelles

The islands that make up Seychelles legalized same-sex relations in 2016, making it one of the few countries in Africa to do so. While not fully all-inclusive, North Island, A Luxury Collection Resort has extensive packages available, making your time in paradise truly exceptional. Luxuriate in your private pool, or stay in a beach front villa, just steps away from the ocean. Accessible only by helicopter or boat, you will truly bask in the remote beauty of the island during your stay. 

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Ikos Dassia, Greece

Explore the Greek island of Corfu in luxury when you stay at the LGBTQ+ friendly Ikos Dassia. Enjoy food curated by Michelen starred chefs, gorgeous beaches, heated pools, a complimentary car for adventures off the resort, fitness activities and relaxation in the sauna. You can find total relaxation in one of their sunbeds, or when you book a treatment at the spa. 

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The post The 13 Best All-Inclusive Resorts for LGBTQ+ Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The prize includes: 

• Three nights accommodations at Hotel Three Sixty
• All meals and beverages (including non-premium alcoholic drinks)
• Ground transportation to/from SJO airport
• Two $750 air credits for use on flights from the United States to Costa Rica
• Two one-hour Jungle Classics spa treatments

Tucked away in a vast 58-acre private rainforest reserve, Hotel Three Sixty occupies just eight percent of the land, leaving plenty of wide open spaces to explore. The resort’s structures seamlessly blend stunning modern design elements with traditional materials and styles authentic to the region. Open-air designs and soaring vaulted ceilings help draw the panoramic jungle scenery indoors, intensifying the all-encompassing views. Natural stone and wood accents complement living floral walls that breathe life into the interiors.

Hovering nearly 1,000 feet above the jungle, the hotel offers breathtaking vantage points over the lush rainforest, Manuel Antonio National Park, the ocean, and the Osa Peninsula. 

How to Enter

Visit our sweepstakes page here to enter before the giveaway ends on June 21, 2024.

Entering is easy—all you have to do is sign up for SmarterTravel and Oyster’s newsletters. If you’re already a subscriber, simply enter your email address to verify your account (you won’t be signed up twice.)

You can gain bonus entries by completing one or more of the following tasks to increase your chance of winning. You’ll receive one additional entry per task.

1. Follow us on Twitter (X).
2. Retweet a Tweet from SmarterTravel.
3. View our Facebook post.
4. Share the sweepstakes with a friend.
5. Follow us on TikTok.

To see the full terms and conditions for the giveaway, visit the sweepstakes page here.

The post Win a Trip to Hotel Three Sixty in Costa Rica appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Cottage Court provides accommodations perfect for small families and couples looking for simple accommodations without frills or fanfare. 

Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas

It is located just off the main road in Hot Springs, minutes from the entrance to the National Park, and Central Ave, the hotbed of Hot Springs.  Bathhouse Row is less than a mile away, as is the Gangster Museum – both must-see stops on your trip to Hot Springs. 

Property: Dame Fortune’s Cottage Court

Cottage Court is a renovated motor motel and provides a retro feel with modern amenities. Amenities include:  

• Free WiFi
• Coffee Makers in every room
• Flat Screen Smart TV’s 
• Free on-site, off-street parking

Rooms: Basic yet Comfortable

I’m not going to lie; Cottage Court is not a luxury accommodation, but it is clean and comfortable. My room had two queen-sized beds, and a bureau. I would have liked a chair or table for working, but I’m not sure there was enough room. For most guests, this wouldn’t be an issue, but for anyone traveling for business, you may want to be sure to book a Deluxe King or Queen, which have small sitting areas. They also offer a petite queen and single queen rooms. Each room has a single-cup coffee maker, a hairdryer, and basic toiletries. The bathroom was small but clean, and I can only assume the original toilets were smaller than the current ones, as my leg hit the toilet paper dispenser and I had to move out of the way to get the toilet paper; however, I was rarely in my room, and it certainly served its purpose. I could not hear the guests in the room next to me (a fellow travel writer was in the room next to me and did a full workout in her room, which I did not hear a peep of); however, some street noise and outside noise did drift into my room, like a truck starting up early in the morning and a dog barking on its morning walk. 

Price & How to Book

Prices start at $73 and can be booked on Expedia. 

FAQ Beach Club Resort

Booking and Rates:

1. What are the nightly rates at the Cottage Court? At the time of publication, the lowest price available was $73 per night. 
2. Does the Cottage Court offer any packages or deals? Cottage Court does not offer packages.
3. What is the check-in and check-out time at the Cottage Court? Check-in is 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. 

Amenities and Activities:

4. Does Cottage Court have a pool? There is no pool at Cottage Court. 
5. What on-site dining options are available at Cottage Court? There are no on-site restaurants; however, it is minutes away from downtown Hot Springs, where there are several dining options. 
6. Are there any spa services available at Cottage Court? There is no on-site spa.
7. Are pets allowed at Cottage Court? Pets are allowed at an extra charge. 
8. Is there free Wi-Fi at Cottage Court? Yes, there is complimentary Wi-Fi. 

Location and Accessibility:

9. How close is Cottage Court to Hot Springs National Park? Cottage Court is less than a mile from the info center at Hot Springs National Park.
10. Does Cottage Court offer parking for guests? Yes, there is ample parking for guests. 
11. Are the rooms ADA Accessible? Yes, Cottage Court does offer ADA Accessible accommodations.

Editor’s Note: Dame Fortune’s Cottage Court hosted the writer of this story.

The post SmarterTravel Spotlight: Dame Fortune’s Cottage Court appeared first on SmarterTravel.