For anniversaries, I like to plan a big trip. I have 2 potential trips in mind for our 30th anniversary in 2020. Portugal or Another Trip to Italy.
Two trips to Europe in the same year might be pushing the limits a bit, so I will probably have to choose one or the other…..so sad! Unless that is, Mark scores an extra week of vacation time next year and we can take a spring trip and a fall trip. Very unlikely, but a girls gotta dream!
Either way it works out, it will be awesome. I have a tentative layout for both trips and have been diligently hoarding points and miles to help with the costs. If we go to Portugal, there are plenty of great IHG options and I already have enough points to cover almost every night of our stay. However, for the areas we would visit in Italy, IHG is not a great option.
I have only recently began to utilize Hyatt hotels. They aren’t always available in areas where I am traveling. I have been able to use them in Portland, Baltimore and will be staying a few nights in Waikiki in October. I like that not only are they on the affordable side, but they are usually pretty nice properties with decent amenities.
Hyatt adds SLH brand
Recently Hyatt added the SLH (Small Luxury Hotels of the World) brand to their list of available properties. Their hotels are located all over the world. This opens up some new doors for me for either of my perspective trips. It adds 11 unique and interesting locations in Portugal plus 1 in Madeira. And quite a few additional properties across Italy. It would be fun to mix a few of these into our trip. We have loved the Boutique and historic European hotels that we have stayed in on past trips. They have so much character, charm and history. Who wouldn’t like living out their “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” fantasies for a few days in some of SLH’s luxury hotels.
Some SLH Hotels Available in Portugal
Pousada Palacia De Estoi – Faro
You can stay at this former palace in the coveted Algarve region for only 15,000 points per night.
Hotel Da Estrela- Lisbon
For those looking for a modern boutique hotel you can choose this hotel for 15,000 points per night.
Hotel Infante Sagres – Porto
Unfortunately some hotels, like the Hotel Infante Sagres, are still not accepting points…..and others can only be accessed through the app. I guess they still have a little ways to go on the integration.
Some SLH Hotels Available in Italy
Hotel Lungaro – Florence
For 40,000 points per night you can have a beautiful terrace and amazing views over Florence and Ponte Vecchio!
Hotel De La Ville – Milan
Palatial rooms are available in this 19th century hotel in Milan for just 12,000 points per night.
Eight Hotel – Portofino
I can already see myself here in a wide brimmed hat sipping a spritz on the beach and listening to some Andrea Bocelli as I watch the yachts sail by. You can be that boujee for a mere 40,000 points per night. Yes please!
Venice
Although we aren’t planning on visiting Venice this trip, you can stay in one of 2 SLH properties, which are situated right on the grand canal, for 30,000 – 40,000 points per night. Location, location, location!
The Skinny
Adding SLH properties to the Hyatt hotels portfolio really adds some interesting choices for hotel stays. I think I will have to beef up my World of Hyatt account or sign up for one of their credit cards just in case. I love having options!
The World According to Dev 