We have asked Amie, Managing Editor and CEO of Ciao Bambino, a leading global travel planning resource for families, to share her thoughts with us about her love for hotels, and Amberlair, of course. And before you ask, a #BohoLover is a Boutique Hotel lover… just like us!
How do you choose a hotel when you travel?
I like hotels that reflect the destination is meaningful way … it can be an incredible view. The interior design embracing an area’s history and local artisans, or even a unique and fantastic location.
If you had to choose 3, which were the most special (boutique) hotels you have ever stayed at?
The Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, California, is perched on the edge of the coastline with unbelievable views of the Pacific Ocean. You feel like you are literally hanging over the ocean. It’s magic.
Singita Lodges in South Africa are exotic and luxurious, yet embraces the bush and African landscape in a powerful way. Service is surreal.
Singita Lodges, South Africa. Photo by hotel.
La Posta Vecchia in Italy is J Paul Getty’s old villa outside of Rome. This masterpiece, sitting right on the sea, is still filled with art and antiques as Getty left the. Not to mention the Etruscan ruins that are part of the in-house museum in the basement of the hotel. A stay here epitomizes special occassion.
La Posta Vecchia, Italy. Photo by hotel.
If you had your own boutique hotel, what 3 things would you make sure existed?
- An inviting lobby with a home-away-from home vibe. The kind of place where it’s equally tempting to relax there or explore the area.
- Organic, unique and wonderful spa/bath products in every bathroom
- An amazing in-house coffee and wine bar
Name 3 things you loved in hotels you stayed in before…
- Complimentary cars for guest use
- Age-appropriate kids’ spaces that include something for all ages
- Non-scripted, personalized, and attentive service
Name 3 things you wouldn’t want to experience in a hotel ever again.
- Smoking guest rooms
- An in-house disco/bar that is close to the guest rooms and loud all night
- Any hotel that has an unappealing and/or ugly view
How do you feel about the Amberlair concept?
I think it’s brilliant!
Where are you off to next?
Lapa Rias ecolodge in Costa Rica, part of the Cayuga Collection.
Amie is the Managing Editor and CEO of Ciao Bambino, a leading global travel planning resource for families with children of all ages. Amie founded Ciao Bambino over a decade ago with a mission to enable families with kids of all ages to fearlessly explore the world together.
Ciao Bambino pairs an award-winning blog and hotel reviews powered by a team of Family Travel Experts with a boutique, in-house travel agency. This unique combination offers families an invaluable go-to resource to research and book travel.
Amie is on the Editors Council of SATW and a board member of the Family Travel Association. Ciao Bambino recently won the bronze Lowell Thomas Award for the 2015 Best Travel Website.
