Everyone has one on the list: the frequent flier who’s in three different countries in as many weeks, with miles to spare thereafter on exotic vacations. He already owns the top travel gadgets and jetsetter accessories, which makes it especially difficult to pin down the perfect gift. Instead of fruitlessly trolling boutiques, give a present your luxury traveler can really use — an incredible travel package at a top-notch hotel. Here are our five picks:
007 Room Service at The Dorchester, London
If your recipient is fond of Bond, consider booking him or her a room at The Dorchester, the exquisite Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star hotel in London’s Mayfair district. In conjunction with the release of the new James Bond book, Solo, by William Boyd, The Dorchester — which plays a role in the novel’s opening scene — is offering 007 Room Service: Accommodations are outfitted with a library set of the Ian Fleming Bond Collection, and your own copy of the new book to page through over a martini nightcap. The next morning, spring awake for Breakfast with Bond at The Grill (lifted from the book: “four eggs, scrambled with pepper sprinkled on top, half a dozen rashers of unsmoked bacon, well done, on the side and a long draught of strong black coffee”), enjoyed while listening to a 1969 soundtrack and poring over a vintage newspaper.
If simply drinking the libation doesn’t quite do it, sign up for a master martini class with alchemist Giuliano Morandin at The Bar. Learn about the history of the classic martini and watch a demonstration by Morandin before trying your hand at making the concoction yourself. Editor’s note: The 007 Room Service and Breakfast with Bond are available until stocks of the book last.
Live Like a Dignitary at The Ritz-Carlton, Washington D.C.
Picture it: Red-carpet arrivals everywhere you go, a VIP welcome upon check-in to a luxury suite at The Ritz, a private butler to help sort your wardrobe, an en-suite four-course dinner inspired by the country of your choice, a morning-after presidential briefing in The Library, and a personal detail/escort in a chauffeured luxury SUV highlighting various diplomatic centers around town — sans pedestrian lines, of course. This dignitary treatment is up for grabs at Four-Star The Ritz-Carlton, Washington D.C., which means gifting the glimpse at another lifestyle — at least for a few days. Available through December 31
Christmas packages at Capella Washington, D.C., Georgetown
If your giftee fancies The Nutcracker, reserve him or her a few nights at the luxe Capella in the capital, where the two-night Christmas package offers a luxurious stay in a suite with all the holiday trimmings, plus the opportunity for a walk-on role with the Washington Ballet’s production. Check in on Christmas Eve and skate up an appetite at Georgetown’s Washington Harbour Ice Rink (skate rental included). The next day, indulge in Christmas Day brunch and a five-course dinner at The Grill Room, plus breakfast for two the following morning before a leisurely late checkout. The icing on the gingerbread is a behind-the-scenes tour of The Nutcracker, and an opportunity to book private weekday studio rehearsals as well as a place in the show for an adult or a child. Inquire upon booking. Available through December 29
Holiday Memories Ski Package at Resorts West, Park City, Utah
If you want to spoil the wee ones on your list, let Park City’s Resorts West do the legwork. The property’s seven-night Holiday Memories package includes a selection of age-appropriate holiday gifts from seminal toy wonderland FAO Schwarz, all shipped, wrapped and arranged with care at your ski home ahead of your arrival, meaning your kids will be more than surprised about the abundance of gifts when they set foot in the door. Bonus: Don’t stress about extra checked bags for all the new goodies; your concierge will post everything back to your residence at the end of your holiday. Available through December 31
Mega Yachts & Martinis Escape at Pelican Grand Beach Resort, Fort Lauderdale
Hop aboard your private chartered yacht and celebrate the holidays in style. This special holiday season package includes one night at sea and two nights in a luxurious oceanfront suite with all-inclusive amenities, plus private transportation to and fro. Everything is planned in advance, from a complete “Sun Yourself” kit with all the essentials, such as tanning oil, bottled water, lip balm, pre-loaded iPods with party mixes, thoughtful catering of multi-course meals from Ocean2000 and, of course, a magnum of Moët & Chandon to toast the occasion, whether Christmas, New Year’s or any other special celebration you choose. Available through January 31
Photos courtesy of Resorts West, Dorchester Collection
