Vol 5, No 35 - Best new U.S. luxury hotels for 2020

View this email in your browser

Vol. 5, No. 35:
The top 11 U.S. luxury hotel openings for 2020

Check out our DGAE Library featuring:

Insider reviews of unique experiences from VIP supercar tours of Italy, treks to see the Polar Bears, safaris in Africa, Cuba by private jet and previews of top suites and villas at hotels and resorts across the USA, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Canada, Mexico, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Brasil, Cambodia, China, Costa Rica, Ecuador, England, Fiji, France, French Polynesia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Maldives, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Oman, Panama, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Russia, Seychelles, Scotland, Singapore, Spain, South Africa, Switzerland, Tahiti, Thailand, Turkey, UAE, Vietnam, plus on the high seas aboard Regent Seven Seas Explorer, Seaboard Encore, Crystal Esprit, Crystal Mozart, Crystal Symphony, Norwegian Breakaway, Celebrity Edge, and Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

New luxury hotels in the USA

After visiting Hawaii last week, this week we stay in the Continental U.S. and talk to mega-advisor Jack Ezon, founder of Embark Beyond Travel, to get his picks for best new luxury hotel openings in 2020.

Best of all, one of the hotels already opened - to 5-star reviews - and another two are due to open before year’s end, although you can start booking many for next year now.

If you are looking for great event, meeting or celebration venues, you’ll definitely want to take a look at Jack’s list - many have spectacular spaces - and putting on a party you and your guests will never forget is one of Embark’s specialties.

I hope all of your travels are amazing!

All the best,

Doug Gollan

Founder/Editor
dougollan@dgamazingexperiences.com

Find The Best Private Aviation Solutions For You

On-Demand Charter. Jet Cards. Fractional Ownership.

Subscribe today and we can help you and your team make sure you and your company are finding the best private aviation solutions for your unique flying needs.

What you get:

– Best Charter Brokers Guide – A curated guide to on-demand charter brokers that identifies 84 brokers and floating fleet operators that exceed industry standards.

– Jet Card Comparisons Guide – Comparison by 65+ variables of over 300 Jet Card programs, including sourcing standards for aircraft and pilots, service areas, Wifi availability, hourly rates, and hidden charges.

– Quick Compare Flight Pricing – A comparison of Jet Card pricing for over 150 national fixed-rate jet card programs. It calculates hourly rates plus daily and segment minimums, taxes, taxi time, memberships fees, peak day surcharges, fuel surcharges, and deicing so users can contrast fully loaded flight costs in second.

– Aircraft Performance Guide – Compare over 150 private jet types by range, speed, seating capacity, baggage and cabin space, including cabin height.

— VIP Jet Card Decider — Our personal service available to help you figure out which solutions and providers are right for you and your company.

Click here for more information

Table of Contents

A. Private Aviation Headlines, including
B Private Jet Performance Guide ranking over 150 aircraft by size, range, speed, cabin, and baggage space
C. Before You Buy Reports - Jets, Yachts, Villas
D. The Ultimate Restaurant Guide for Private Jet Travelers
The Top 11 U.S. Hotel Openings For 2020
1.   Auberge Commodore Perry Estate, Austin
2.   Austin Proper Hotel & Residences, Austin, Texas
3.   Kimpton Hotel Arras, Asheville
4.   Hall Arts Hotel, Dallas
5.   Nobu Chicago
6.   Bishop’s Lodge, Santa Fe
7.   Downtown LA Proper Hotel
8.   Four Seasons Resorts & Residences, Calistoga
9.   Six Senses, New York
10. Miraval Berkshires
11.   The Fifth Avenue Hotel, New York
12. Executive Security Report
13. Jet Card Insider Reports
14. Best Of DG Amazing Experiences Library

A. Private Aviation Headlines

1. On-Demand Charter v. Jet Cards - the pros and cons
2   DLM files second lawsuit against Victor
3. Air Partner releases Super Bowl LIV experiences
4. Jet Linx expands Nashville base
5. Wheels Up adds camouflage King Air for charity
6. How safe is your private jet company?
7. VistaJet named Asia’s Best Charter Operator
8. Airstream Jets waives credit card fees
9. Jet Linx raises over $87,000 for breast cancer awareness
10. Flexjet sells G650 shares by the day
11.   NetJets, Flexjet, VistaJet - Comparing the branded large cabin options
12.   Is NetJets worth the price?

Special Reports:

1. Comparing the Private Jet Sharing Options
2. Understanding Part 135
3. How not to get burned when buying a private jet membership program

Jet Card Buyer’s Tips

1. Buyer’s Tip #1 Know the company behind your program
2. Buyer’s Tip #2 Fixed rates or dynamic pricing?
3. Buyer’s Tip #3 Do I need guaranteed availability?
4. Buyer’s Tip #4 Make sure your program’s Primary Service Area matches your flight
5. Buyer’s Tip #5 What you need to know about Peak Days
6. Buyer’s Tip #6 Roundtrip and one-way pricing

B. Private Jet Performance Guides
(provided by Conklin & de Decker)

Range
Compare Light Jets by range
Compare Midsize Jets by range
Compare Large Cabin Jets by range

C. Before You Buy Reports

1. Before you charter a superyacht
2. Before you rent a villa
3. Before you charter a private jet
4. Before you buy a jet card

Partner Promotion:
Los Cabos Villa Spotlight from Elegant Mexico

Encompassing 12,000 sq. ft of interior living space with eight bedrooms all with private en-suite bathrooms, dressing areas, and patios, Casa Luna Escondida is ideal for either extended families, couples or friends groups. There is a full-size addition to the spectacular pool with shallow shaded lounging areas and two of the guest casitas have their own private plunge pools. In addition to the state-of-the-art technology, your staff includes a house manager, butler, chef and concierge services.

Located in the private resort community of Villas Del Mar this home has welcomed many high profile guests, from celebrity entertainers and royalty to Fortune 500 CEOs, looking for the privacy and anonymity that cannot be found at traditional resorts. For more information, click this link or call Elegant Mexico at +1 949.388.8590 ext. 200.

D. The Ultimate Restaurant Guide for Private Jet Travelers

With the help of our friends, we’ve curated a list of 143 restaurants in 60 cities around-the-world that each has memorable views, cuisine to match, and are all located on the top floors or rooftops of leading hotels.

In other words, if you are on a tight schedule, don’t worry about fighting traffic. Dinner (or lunch) is just an elevator ride away, like your private jet, saving you time. For the entire list, click here.

Partner Promotion:
Turks & Caicos Villa Spotlight from HostedVillas

The opulent La Dolce Vita Villa sits on the shores of Provo’s Long Bay Beach. Featuring a striking modern design both inside and out, the villa stretches out over more than 12,300 sq. ft. and offers more than 430 feet of beachfront. With 2 oceanfront pools and 2 oceanfront hot tubs, chances are you’ll find yourself frequently gazing out to sea, either watching the sunrise with your morning coffee or watching it set, all the time surrounded by family and friends. And as this villa features a total of 9 bedrooms, there’s certainly room for everyone. Take a 3-D Tour or for more information visit HostedVillas or contact Aurélie Gilles, Experience Manager, aurelie@hostedvillas.com mobile 647-523-4275 or office 1-800-374-6637 Ext. 310

Best U.S. luxury hotel openings for 2020

Overview

In this week’s issue, we chat with superstar travel advisor Jack Ezon, founder of Embark Beyond Travel to get his picks for hotels and resorts here in the U.S. that you’ll want to put on your list for 2020 and beyond.

You’ll find a mix of classic and new destinations, skyscrapers with spectacular views and beautiful restorations. The venues are all great for weekend getaways, and many are also perfect for events and celebrations.

1. Auberge Commodore Perry Estate, Austin

Ezon says, "Once the glamorous social hub for Austin’s socialites, this 54 room urban resort is secluded on 10 acres just outside the city center (and a 20-minute drive from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.) The restored 11,000 sq. ft. mansion will be the hub for guests and locals alike, offering an elegant alternative to the city’s more eccentric establishments.”

Auberge Commodore Perry Estate is also expected to be perfect for events and buyouts with both indoor and outdoor space, including a 3,000 sq. ft. manicured garden that can accommodate up to 300 of your besties.

2. Austin Proper Hotel & Residences, Austin

Austin Proper Hotel & Residences is taking reservations now for stays in January 2020, so its opening is imminent. Local McGuire Moorman Hospitality, the team behind Jeffrey’s, Elizabeth Street Cafe, Clark’s, and other acclaimed restaurants, will operate the four dining concepts.

They include Israeli and Turkish-inspired fare on the ground floor Peacock Mediterranean Grill as well as an on-the-go version, The Mockingbird, with coffee, falafel, and rotisserie. La Piscina, the poolside restaurant, offers ceviches and sizzling fajita options, and Goldie’s will be a 30-seat sunken bar.

The 1,110 sq. ft. Proper Penthouse Suite has a private 550 sq. ft. furnished private terrace. You can connect to a Junior Suite King to expand your enclave.

Ezon says, "Kelly Wearstler brings her hot new style to this trendy city with the opening of the Austin Proper. The 244 room hotel is centrally located in the heart of downtown with a 5th-floor rooftop pool deck promising to be the hottest place to see and be seen in Austin.”

3. Kimpton Hotel Arras, Asheville

Ezon says of the Kimpton Hotel Arras, “This 128 room hotel embodies its city, infused with local art and incredible views of the Blue Ridge in the distance. It’s the ideal base for those looking to explore the newly reopened Asheville Art Museum – reason enough to visit this new southern art Mecca.”

The hotel opened a few weeks ago, and from Trip Advisor, so far it’s holding a 5-star rating. In fact, out of 39 reviews, 38 were Excellent and just one Average, a pretty impressive to get out of the blocks.

4. Hall Arts Hotel, Dallas

Hall Arts Hotel, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is set to open early December. It is set to have 19 signature suites, including the 10th floor 1,717 sq. ft. Grand Finale Suite, Conductor Suite, Showstopper Suite, and more.

Ezon says, "Set to become the new hub of the 19-block Dallas Arts District, the Hall Arts Hotel is a boutique retreat is a design-forward space with works of art from the extensive in-house collection displayed throughout its 183 rooms and public spaces."

5. Nobu Chicago

Ezon says, “The Japanese-inspired Nobu Chicago will be set along Restaurant Row, bringing the ryokan experience to the Windy City. The new hallmark Nobu Rooftop will be a 10,000 sq. ft. indoor-outdoor foodie haven is scheduled to open in January 2020.”

The 1,550 sq. ft. Villa Skyline Suite features a separate living area and dining area with views of the Chicago skyline. It can be expanded to two bedrooms if you wish.

6. Bishop’s Lodge, Santa Fe

Ezon says, “The newest urban resort in New Mexico, Bishop’s Lodge is set in an iconic 1920’s resort set on 317 acres in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. Reimagined by Auberge Resorts, Bishop’s Lodge will reopen with 120 rooms and suites, a full equestrian center and sprawling spa.” The hotel is expected to reopen in the second quarter of 2020.

7. Downtown LA Proper Hotel

Inside Downtown LA Proper Hotel you’ll find curated vintage pieces and specially designed furnishing with unique original windows overlooking the famous skyline
icons. Suites are entertaining-ready, from the double-height ceilings and a vintage basketball court, to an indoor swimming pool accented by a ceramic mural by local artist Ben Medansky. There’s also 14,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space, including indoor/outdoor rooftop venues.

Ezon says, "Located in the heart of LA’s fashion district, the slick LA Proper features 148 rooms an intimate library-lounge, and a city-view rooftop pool and lounge-bar-restaurant, re-imaging the historic Broadway Corridor landmark.”

8. Four Seasons Resorts and Residences Napa Valley

Ezon says, “Located in a private vineyard, the 85-room Four Seasons promises to be one of the most exclusive options in the Napa Valley. With a full-service spa and extensive kids club, it is also the first resort in Calistoga where weddings can be held overlooking a vineyard.”

Slated to open in January 2020, the 3,395 sq. ft. Estate Villa is a free-standing single-level building, including a fireplace in the living room, media room, indoor and outdoor ding for 12 guests, and configurations from one to three bedrooms.

9. Six Senses, New York

Ezon says, "Six Senses (scheduled to open in Sept. 2020) debuts its first US property with one of New York’s most extensive wellness sanctuaries. Located in the new XI’s two unique, twisting towers designed by world-renowned architect Bjarke Ingels, the Six Senses New York is just off the High Light in the heart of Chelsea."

10. Miraval Berkshires

Take a stroll through history on the lush grounds that have housed industrialists, clergy, writers, musicians, golfers, and culture lovers in Massachusetts. The central hilltop Tudor-style Wyndhurst Mansion was built by John Sloane in 1894. The estate was designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, the famous landscape architect who created New York’s Central Park.

The historic 18-hole golf course combines spectacular views with challenging golf. Tree-lined fairways and naturally contoured greens have been carefully preserved since the course was built by Wayne Stiles and John Van Kleek in 1926.

Ezon says, "Located on 380 acres in the heart of the Berkshires, Miraval brings its formula for wellness to Lenox along with new programs and treatments that are reflective of the destination. The entire property is connected by indoor walkways, ensuring that guests can enjoy the property year-round.”

The opening is expected in May 2020.

11. 250 Fifth Avenue, New York

250 Fifth Avenue will combine the adaptive reuse of an existing six-story, 40,000 sq. ft. structure, and a ground-up development of a 23-story, 90,000 square foot newly constructed tower. The two buildings will be adjoined and will combine to encompass approximately 20,000 sq. ft of public space.

Ezon says, "This architectural darling joins the growing NoMad scene in New York. Set in the 1908 Gilded Age socialite Charlotte Goodridge’s mansion with an adjacent tower, 250 Fifth will have 182 rooms and suites, plus a 5,000 sq. ft. ballroom and spectacular duplex restaurant with original 30-foot ceilings and arches."

12. Executive Security Reports

1.   What you should consider before you get behind the wheel in Cuba
2.   Preventing a robbery while traveling
3.   How to survive a terrorist attack
4.   Seven ways your flight crew can improve security
5.   Six travel security scenarios you should be prepared for
6.   Family travel safety and security advice
7.   Four trends in executive travel security

13. Jet Card Insider Program Reviews

1.   Air Partner
2.   Airstream Jets
3.   Flexjet
4.   Delta Private Jets
5.   JetSuite (updated)
6.   Jet Aviation
7.   Jet Linx Aviation
8.   Magellan Jets
9. NetJets
10. Private Jet Services (PJS) Group
11. Prive Jets
12. ProspAir
13. Sentient Jet (Updated)
14. StraightLine Private Air
15. Wheels Up (Updated)
16. XOJET

14. Our Most Popular Special Reports

If you are looking for more ideas and inspiration, check out some of our most popular Special Reports below...

You don’t have to be a high roller to stay in these suites

Viva Las Vegas. Some of the most spectacular suites you will find anywhere in the world are in Sin City. However, many are reserved for high rollers. In this issue, we look at impressive suites anyone can stay in, as long as you can pay. Check out the best from Aria, the Bellagio, the Delano, the new Nomad, and more. Read more...

A week of Swiss luxury

Although it’s a bit smaller than Vermont and New Hampshire combined, there are few places that offer more beautiful views of lakes, mountains, and medieval cities combined with five-star hotels and fine dining. Winter or summer, Switzerland is always a great place to spend a week. Read more...

5-star dining atop 5-star hotels

If you hate having to rush across town to dinner when you’re traveling, with the help of our friends, we’ve curated a list of 143 restaurants in over 60 cities around-the-world each with memorable views, cuisine to match, and all are located on the top floors or rooftops of leading hotels. Read more...

Sentosa Villa on the famous Grace Bay

Enjoy direct beachfront access at this outstanding 8-bedroom villa located on the famed Grace Bay Beach. Perfect for special events, such as a family reunion, wedding or other milestone celebration, revel in the perfect ocean views and soak in the lovely ambiance at Sentosa.

The main house has 6 bedrooms, while the other 2 are in the guest house. Just about every room has a large opening that lets light and ocean breezes flow freely throughout. Outside, the terrace and beach offer lots of comfortable lounge chairs and sunbeds alongside the infinity pool and ocean. Read more...

Five bedrooms of luxury in Turks & Caicos

A gorgeous getaway for your group of family and friends, the 5-bedroom Beach Enclave offers luxury-filled days and nights. Furnished to the highest standards, enjoy a bespoke private villa experience with your stay here.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll find yourself slipping into the natural island rhythm. Inspired by an open Caribbean living concept, the villa features wide glass doors and multiple terraces that together allow the indoors and out to blend seamlessly. Spend days relaxing with a good book, cooling off in the pool, snorkeling in the ocean, or flying high on a kiteboard. Read more...

VIP British Columbia and Alaska by helicopter

Two of the most beautiful and rustic spots in the world are in Western North America, in British Columbia, Canada, and Alaska. One of the great advantages of private jets is you don’t waste travel time getting between places, and to that end Entrée Destinations combines the best of the outdoors in both places in one week, connected of course by your private jet. Read more…

Five stunning villas in Los Cabos

Located next to One&Only Palmilla, Del Mar Los Cabos is a luxury gated. Expansive homes up to 12,000 sq. ft. are built to the highest standards of construction, and you have your own butler and private chef. Elegant Mexico handles all pre-arrival planning and concierge services. You get your own golf cart, Club Ninety-Six beach club and kids club access, Club Espiritu fitness club and spa, Offsite activity coordination services, in-residence spa services, 24-hour gated security, and 24-hour emergency medical response are all included. Read more...

Fishing, shooting, castles, and Harry Potter in Yorkshire

Voted Europe’s Best Travel Destination at the World Travel Awards, the first time the award went to a non-city, Yorkshire in northern England is known for its Roman and Viking heritage, Norman castles, medieval abbeys, national parks and cities that were the cradle of the Industrial Revolution. Read more...

Fine and Fun Skyscraper Dining in Bangkok

lebua at State Tower in Bangkok has become the epicenter of Thailand’s move to award-winning internationalizing, with 2-star Michelin restaurant Mezzaluna, Breeze, Sirocco, and soon Chef’s Table under the direction Vincent Thierry of the 3-star Michelin Caprice in Hong Kong. Of course, the nightlife is not restricted to restaurants with a multitude of specialty bars from The Flute A Perrier Jouet and Alfresco 64, a Chivas bar, lebua No. 3, with its caviar shooters and of course the bar that launched a worldwide trend, Skybar (pictured left). Read more...

A golfer's paradise in Northern California

The Northern California coast offers stunning Pacific views and has long been a desirable weekend getaway spot for Golden State residents. However, if you don’t happen to be from the state and are going to be visiting the Bay Area, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is convenient to extend your trip or an excellent base to visit the region’s many attractions. Read more…

About DG Amazing Experiences

My name is Doug Gollan. I am a strong advocate of the private aviation industry. You can read my frequent coverage of private jets and luxury travel at Forbes.com.

I’ve chosen you to receive DG Amazing Experiences because I believe you share my passion for both business aviation and the best travel and luxury experiences in the world.

DG Amazing Experiences is your e-newsletter guide to the best places and experiences for private jet travelers like yourself. The content is personally selected by me with the help of some of the smartest and best travel advisors in the world. My goal is to give you a look ahead at what's new, what's hot, and the best of the best. To make it easy for you, the stories are short but detailed, and I provide plentiful links to additional, relevant information.

If you are looking for private aviation solutions from on-demand charter to jet cards, fractional and even full ownership, please visit our sister website Private Jet Card Comparisons to access our buyer’s guide to over 250 jet card programs and our exclusive on-demand charter guide. Our VIP assistance program can help you decide which solutions are optimal for you.

Baggage Capacity

Fastest and Slowest

Cabin Size Compared