If trying to schedule plans with friends is any indication: the upcoming summer season is typically a popular one for travel. As it so happens, it’s easily my favorite time to peel out of town. Don’t get me wrong—there are destinations that are wonderful year-round that I will (and do) gladly visit. But, the nostalgia of summer break, temps above 70 degrees, and more relaxed Fridays at work? It can’t be beat. Summer is meant for travel.
As for summer-destination hotels, in my opinion, the bar is sky high. Between keeping guests cool in sweatier temperatures, offering amenities that entertain when rain clouds roll in, and simultaneously providing excellent service and a comfortable place to rest one’s head: the search for all this (and more) can be… tricky.
With that, instead of spending a minute more searching for the perfect summer hotel: here are four places to stay during summer months if you’re heading to London, Paris, Boston or Los Angeles. Each hotel is wonderful and unique in its own way—and not just because they’re located in different cities.
The Londoner is located on the southwest corner of Leicester Square.
Whether it’s your first time in London or your fifth, The Londoner is the place in to stay for several reasons. First and foremost: it’s ambiance and decor. The hotel is super chic and comfortable, all at the same time. Walking into the lobby feels like arriving in a posh friend’s living space—sometimes with live music performances. How fancy! Speaking of walking: the hotel is centrally located, within walking distance of attractions in SoHo, Piccadilly Circus and even Big Ben— if you’re ready to challenge your pedometer during a warm summer day. (FYI: The walk to the city’s most famous clocktower is less than 1 mile away). What isn’t nearly as far is the great food at Whitcomb’s (within the hotel) and the spa, which will help you brush off any jet lag and make you feel refreshed and revitalized for summer.
Renaissance Paris Nobel Tour Eiffel Hotel is located in 6th Arrondissement of Paris.
If you’re flying to Paris for a croissant or crêpe, you can find one on any corner of the city. If you’re looking to see the Eiffel Tower, the Arc-de-Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées: stay at the Renaissance Paris Nobel Tour Eiffel Hotel. (Trust us: you’ll be happy to save your hard earned souvenir money for baguettes and pastries, instead of spending it on Ubers to see the sights.) When you return from a day of sightseeing: visit the hotel bar lounge for a refreshing drink or coffee, or spend downtime the property’s Maison Revka Garden during a sunny summer day. Should you need some more exercise, hit the hotel gym (perhaps you didn’t walk all the way up the Eiffel Tower—no judgement of course: we didn’t either). Perhaps one of the best things about this Paris hotel is you won’t have to leave furry family members behind. Not only is this boutique hotel charming, it’s also pet-friendly, so Fido can enjoy summer vacation too.
The Eliot Hotel is located in Back Bay.
If shopping for summer fashion on Newberry Street is on your Boston-trip agenda: look no further than a stay at the newly renovated The Eliot Hotel. With that said, you don’t have to be a fashion fanatic to book one of the 95 rooms and suites at this neoclassical landmark. In fact, excited foodies can snag a reservation at the hotel’s restaurant UNI, a contemporary izakaya, which was named the No. 1 place for sushi by Boston Magazine. Yum! (One major perk of a great hotel restaurant: you don’t have to worry about getting caught in a rainstorm on your way there.) Should you venture out for food, or a walk, during a summer sprinkle: the hotel is happy to offer an umbrella or two. On that note: not only are the guest rooms at The Eliot Hotel charming, but so is their caring staff. (Seriously.) Summer travel can be a hassle, but everyone there makes it a cinch. From their valet, to their front desk, to the individuals who greet you upon entering lobby— the people who work there are incredibly helpful, kind and more than happy to assist above and beyond (and lend you a phone charger, if needed…)
Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills offers cold plunge pools.
Upon arriving to Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, leave your figurative travel baggage at the La Prairie Spa door. Whether you’re visiting from the east coast, abroad, or from down the street: this Forbes Five-Star rated luxury spa offers massages, facials and body treatments that encourage reset, balance and more. Those looking for time in the sun (it is summer after all!) can enjoy the hotel’s rooftop cabanas or a dip in the heated pool, 12 stories above ground. And to keep your summer as zen as possible: private yoga instruction (and personal training, too) is available upon request. For fare with California flavors (read: it tastes like summer), reserve a table at Espelette, the hotel’s restaurant or sit for high tea in the lobby lounge, before or after an outdoor activity. (A mild hike, anyone?)
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