Twin Farms

By far the most amazing place that I’ve stayed at – for its accommodations, service, food, and wine – is Vermont’s Twin Farms.  It received Zagat’s #1 Small Hotel in the US in 2009 (among many other distinguished awards as well) – and I can say, without hesitation, that it absolutely is deserving of this accolade.  I have stayed there a number of times, most recently at the beginning of this month to celebrate a special anniversary with my  husband.

The property is comprised of over three hundred acres of wildflower meadows, forests, gardens and private ponds.   You have the choice of staying in either ten freestanding “cottages” or in the original farmhouse and lodge or in the newer farmhouse next to the pond.

This trip, we stayed in Meadow, one of the ten freestanding homes – each one individually thematically decorated.  Nestled among a beautiful wildflower meadow, this house is made to look and feel like you are in Morocco.  With a tented ceiling in both the main room and in the large bathroom, the many rugs lay on top of terra-cotta tile floors and beautiful mosaics frame the fireplace and other areas of the space.  It’s       just divine . . .

Here are some photos that I took during our visit:

Our cottage – Meadow – named as such because it’s literally in the middle of a meadow.

The gorgeous sitting room with beautiful mosaic tiles, comfortable furnishings, and a lovely fireplace.

The Moroccan inspired headboard – beautiful fabrics (and wonderful bedding)!

The whole room was adorned with a beautiful tented ceiling and a large, magnificent chandelier.

Fabulous soaking tub with windows on three sides – wonderful!

Another tented ceiling in the large bathroom – glorious to look up at from the tub!

How about a Visit to the Pantone Hotel?

The new Pantone Hotel in Brussels has definitely caught my eye.   I don’t know if the exuberant color schemes would promote a relaxing stay, but it certainly looks like a fun novelty.  I think this hotel would be a real hit if you were traveling with children and teens.

Each level of the Hotel’s seven floors offers a different color palette.  The palettes evoke certain moods and you choose your color scheme based on your frame of mind upon arrival.  You may choose from seven color schemes such as  “fresh and eager”, “daring and fiery” or “earthy-rich” depending on your state of mind.   I think I would go for “fresh and eager” after a long day of traveling.  How about you?

All photos Pantone Hotel.