Ideal 3-day luxe Christmas getaway?
 

Along the journey of life and travel we've been fortunate to experience Twin Farms, the Carlyle, Little Palm Island, the Jackson Hole Aman, The Plaza Athenee/Paris, Malliouhana, Pink Sands on Harbour Island, The Inn at Little Washington, Ventana, Eden Roc on St. Barth's, The Greenbrier, Hotel Bel Air, Hotel du Cap, The Point - and we liked 'em all; true quality getaway experiences and, of course, at a price. The good places are worth the $$$$, but does it always have to be THAT expensive? Is there any hotel out there that's comparable, but also a value? Or more nearly affordable? On the other hand, is there someplace new we should try - the cost be damned?

Fly to London, Rome or somewhere else in Europe. Don't stick close to home for the holidays, do a bit of research, find something that intrugues you, then go! Eastern Europe would probably give you the most value, a romantic destination and a Christmas to remember forever.

horizon, my girlfriend tried to book this same trip six months ago only to find just about everything sold out.

She ended up privately booking a condo at The Setai in South Beach for Christmas week.

horizon...
I like the way you roll!
Cabo San Lucas at the Palmilla is one of our fav's..
Are you based on the East coast?
Princeville in Kauai or Big Sur at the Post Ranch Inn..
Wynn Las Vegas is a wonderful 5* hotel and you can't beat the restaurants..we love this place!

These are some terrific ideas. I've always wanted to do Rome for Christmas, but not sure this is the year for Europe. The Setai is really cool. We were there last December. That lobby is a kick. Mexico is on my list. Way on my list. And while we did Vegas a few years ago, I would go back. Christmas? Hmmm. Not sure.

At the moment we're thinking of doing an old school NYC thing...with lots of great restaurants. But not set in stone. I love the suggestions. These all are dream trips.

We'll be visiting family near Munich for Christmas 2008 and plan to spend a few days at The Grandhotel Pupp. www.pupp.cz/

You may recognize it from "Casino Royale".

Have you ever thought about Blackberry Farm in Walland, TN? I have read nothing but wonderful reviews and friends who have been have raved about it. While not cheap, it does sound like it is worth the cost. www.blackberryfarm.com

I have just the thing for you. While reading Nelson DeMille's latest book Wild Fire there's mention of a most exclusive and very special retreat called The Point.Being curious I wrote asking for their brochure and got a beautiful bound booklet(a work of art).It's located on Lake Saranac.Here are some references :
www.thepointresort.com
PO box1327,Saranac lake,New York 12983
I must warn you however the prices are a bit steep; from $ 1750 to 2600 $ per day.I'm waiting for winning the lottery before booking.PAul

Horizon -

I am not sure where you live, but if you are only talking about 3 days - there is nothing more beautiful than the Biltmore House in Asheville, NC at Christmas.

You could stay at the Biltmore Inn or at the magnificant Grove Park Inn, which has one of the best spas on the East coast.

Thank you for these good suggestions. btw, we have been to The Point. It is expensive, but I felt we got our money's worth. They are fully booked this Christmas. I've heard about Blackberry Farm and have it on my "someday" list.

horizon - it is not new - nor cheap - but I spent 4 nights with my Mom at the Canyon Ranch Spa in Tuscon and it was WELL worth every dime..