Virtuoso Best of the Best 2009 - 243
thE REGEnt GRanD hOtEL BORDEaUx Bordeaux, France A long-established favorite hideaway in the city, The Regent Grand Hotel Bordeaux occupies an enviable position across the way from the Opéra de Bordeaux. Having undergone complete restoration – while remaining ever-faithful to its original beauty and character – the hotel now offers the Le Pressoir d’Argent gourmet restaurant, serving fresh seafood and fine local wines; Fashion Avenue, with its plethora of boutiques; and the prestigious Clés d’Or Concierge Service. Each of the 150 bedrooms and suites is equipped with a Loewe flat-screen television, marble bathroom and complimentary high speed Internet access. DistancE fROm BORDEaUx aiRPORt (BOD): viRtUOsO amEnity Buffet breakfast for two daily and EUR50 (approx. US$70) credit at Le Pressoir D’argent, once per stay. in thE KnOW Music lovers, ask the concierge to arrange an evening at the Grand Theatre, home of the Opera of Bordeaux, built in 1776 by the hotel’s architect. 20 minutes hôtEL maRtinEz Cannes, France Some of the most memorable moments at Hôtel Martinez take place at Zplage, the hotel’s private beach on the famed Croisette, with more than 400 sun lounges and a large pontoon. The view is that of the sparkling Mediterranean and the sailing boats that dot the horizon. Hôtel Martinez has long been synonymous with style in the chic city of Cannes, for its stunning Art Deco décor, fabulous restaurants (including the two Michelin-starred La Palme d’Or) and Spa Martinez. The Prestige Rooms are among the most popular for their contemporary furnishings and views of the sea and Esterel range. DistancE fROm nicE aiRPORt (ncE): viRtUOsO amEnity VIP welcome with personalized welcome note and bottle of Taittinger Champagne and preferred rates for Zplage beach club access (except July & August and for the pier). 243 in thE KnOW Ask about the new Asian spices-inspired massage at the Spa Martinez. E U R O PE 18 mi/30 km intERcOntinEntaL caRLtOn cannEs Cannes, France Don your floppiest hat and biggest sunglasses and head for the French Riviera’s historic treasure: InterContinental Carlton Cannes. Since 1911, celebrities have flocked to this Belle Époque beauty on the Bay of Cannes; the Palais des Festivals and shopping along Rue d’Antibes are nearby. The staff here is incredible and will go to great lengths to make your stay legendary; simply ask, and they’ll arrange a behindthe-scenes tour of the Fragonard perfume factory or arrange tee times at the area’s most exclusive golf courses. See and be seen at The Carlton Restaurant, where head chef Bunel creates fine seasonal dishes. DistancE fROm nicE aiRPORt (ncE): viRtUOsO amEnity Full champagne buffet breakfast for two daily, bottle of Chablis and access to beach lounges. in thE KnOW For romantics only: The hotel will arrange a champagne helicopter transfer; upon arrival, find your suite covered in thousands of rose petals! 20 mi/32 km