Travels with Karen (not a Karen) https://karennotakaren.stedman.us Travel with KareBear Mon, 15 May 2023 14:56:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 KareBear’s Anguilla Adventure: Zemi Beach Resort – Hilton Luxury Meets Island Charm! https://karennotakaren.stedman.us/2023/05/07/karebears-anguilla-adventure-zemi-beach-resort-hilton-luxury-meets-island-charm/ https://karennotakaren.stedman.us/2023/05/07/karebears-anguilla-adventure-zemi-beach-resort-hilton-luxury-meets-island-charm/#respond Sun, 07 May 2023 02:20:02 +0000 https://karennotakaren.stedman.us/?p=5 Welcome to my travel blog! Today, I’ll be sharing my experience of staying at the Zemi Beach House, a luxury resort located on the island of Anguilla, and how I used my Hilton Honors rewards points to book my stay.

Zemi Beach House is a stunning resort nestled on the pristine beaches of Anguilla. From the moment I arrived, I was blown away by the beautiful surroundings and the impeccable service provided by the staff. The resort boasts a range of luxurious amenities, including a spa, fitness center, multiple dining options, and a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the ocean.

Living the Suite Life:

Upon check-in, I was welcomed with a refreshing drink and a warm smile from the staff, who showed me to my room. The room was spacious and beautifully decorated, with modern amenities and a large balcony offering breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Dining in Style:

As a discerning foodie, I was absolutely thrilled by the culinary experiences at Zemi Beach Resort. Boasting three exceptional restaurants, the resort caters to even the most refined palate. The Stone, a haute cuisine establishment, sources local ingredients to craft innovative masterpieces. For a more relaxed vibe, 20 Knots serves beachfront delicacies with an international flair. And, for the true island experience, the Rhum Room offers a curated selection of over 100 small-batch rums from around the globe – perfect for a sophisticated nightcap.

A Sanctuary of Wellness:

The crown jewel of Zemi Beach Resort is undoubtedly the Zemi Thai House Spa. This award-winning oasis of tranquility combines ancient Eastern rituals with modern Western therapies. Housed in a 300-year-old Thai rice barn, the spa provided me with an unparalleled sense of rejuvenation. From a decadent massage to a revitalizing facial, I was utterly pampered. And for those seeking inner peace, the outdoor yoga deck, nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, is simply divine.

Adventure Meets Relaxation:

Zemi Beach Resort’s idyllic location on Shoal Bay East is a haven for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. I indulged in an array of complimentary water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling, adding a touch of excitement to my luxurious retreat. For nature enthusiasts, Anguilla offers verdant hiking trails and boat trips to the nearby Prickly Pear Cays – an unmissable experience for snorkeling and sunbathing aficionados.

Sundays at Gwen’s Reggae Bar:

For a taste of authentic Anguilla culture, one must visit Gwen’s Reggae Bar, particularly on Sundays. Situated on Upper Shoal Bay, this spirited beach bar offers delectable fare, refreshing beverages, and live reggae music that had me swaying in style. Gwen’s Reggae Bar is the ultimate venue for a chic, yet authentic Caribbean experience, and don’t forget to try their rum punch.

Conclusion:

My stay at Zemi Beach Resort was nothing short of extraordinary. With its enviable location, exceptional service, and unparalleled amenities, this slice of Anguilla heaven has earned a permanent spot on my list of favorites. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a family vacation, Zemi Beach Resort is the quintessential destination for a truly unforgettable Anguilla experience.

Hilton Honors points required to book Zemi is 110,000 points per night, making this a great reward redemption, as prices are routinely $1,000 plus a night.

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Thompson Madrid – Christmas https://karennotakaren.stedman.us/2023/01/10/thompson-madrid-christmas/ https://karennotakaren.stedman.us/2023/01/10/thompson-madrid-christmas/#respond Tue, 10 Jan 2023 14:55:41 +0000 https://karennotakaren.stedman.us/?p=36 Welcome to my travel blog, where today I’ll be sharing my experience of spending the Christmas holidays in Madrid, Spain, and how I used my Hyatt points to book my stay at the Thompson Madrid hotel.

Madrid is a beautiful city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culture. I was excited to spend the Christmas holidays in this incredible city and explore all that it had to offer.

To make my stay more affordable, I decided to use my Hyatt points to book my stay at the Thompson Madrid hotel. Hyatt is a popular hotel loyalty program that offers members a range of benefits, including free hotel nights, room upgrades, and exclusive experiences.

The Thompson Madrid is a stunning boutique hotel located in the heart of Madrid’s Salamanca district. The hotel boasts stylish rooms with modern amenities and a range of facilities, including a restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Upon arrival at the hotel, I was greeted warmly by the staff, who recognized my Hyatt status and thanked me for my loyalty. They upgraded me to a beautiful room, which was a lovely surprise. The room was spacious and elegantly decorated, with a large balcony.

During my stay at the Thompson Madrid, I indulged in the hotel’s many amenities. I enjoyed delicious meals at the hotel’s restaurant, which served traditional Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. I also spent time at the hotel’s bar, where I could enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

One of the highlights of my stay was exploring the city during the Christmas season. The streets were adorned with beautiful lights and decorations, and there were several Christmas markets and events taking place throughout the city. I also visited some of Madrid’s famous attractions, such as the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace.

Overall, my experience at the Thompson Madrid was excellent, and I’m so grateful that I was able to use my Hyatt points to book my stay. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in the heart of Madrid, I highly recommend the Thompson Madrid, and if you’re a Hyatt member, don’t forget to redeem your points for a free night!

When the hotel first opened last year it was a category 4 hotel, which was an amazing use of Hyatt points or a free night certificate, but changed to a category 5 hotel in March.  Now that it is a category 5 hotel, it takes anywhere from 17,000-23,000 points to redeem a free night.  This is still a great use of points, as cash rates at this hotel can be as much as $600 plus per night.

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