No? Neither had I until I got wind of a new property recently opened in Encinitas (north San Diego area). In the course of looking for a fun getaway befitting a special anniversary, I explored Alila Marea Beach Resort. This is a separate brand under the Hyatt umbrella where one might expect premium pricing from Park Hyatt or even Hyatt Regency. I definitely was not expecting a room cost approaching $1,000 per night (includes breakfast!) on a AAA rate. I will continue to look.
When considering where else where else to go, I decided to look into an old favorite from early in our marriage — Ventana in Big Sur. Turns out that property is also now an Alila, and only the third one in the US. All of the other locations are scattered around Asia and the Middle East. Ventana was always a splurge, but nothing like it is now. At least the rate is basically “all inclusive” — per the website:
Each Ventana booking now features the following inclusive offerings: Dining in-room (all meals), poolside on your dedicated chaise lounge (lunch), or at The Sur House (breakfast and dinner). Convenient, healthy, and inspiring snacks to take on the day’s adventures, along with complimentary keepsake reusable water bottles. The Ventana Big Sur picnic program. Access to indoor and outdoor fitness studios. Volvo chauffeur service within a three-mile radius. The Excursion Outpost, featuring complimentary items for your use on picnics, hikes, and more.
The cost for the above (lowest rate and you best sit down) :: $1,650 per night, plus tax of course. Onward I go.
Then there is Napa, site of the newest Alila. Scratch that for the desired timeframe (end of August). But we can go earlier in August with rooms starting at just under $1000. I’m feeling rich.
Thus I look forward to sharing all the stories and photos of the settled itinerary :: Cleveland (the hubby’s hometown) for baseball plus seeing friends and family; Detroit (baseball only) and some glorious days in Chicago for eating, shopping, exploring and celebrating. Sounds pretty ideal to me.
