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Summer Hotspots: 8 Cool Vacation Retreats
by Jan Gerner
And if you find you're having some déjà vu moments, you may have seen this picturesque harbor and town on TV. This seaside hot spot has been the backdrop for several shows, most recently The O.C.
 Four Seasons Las Vegas
Las Vegas, Nevada
In this city of neon, glitz, and glamor, there is a tranquil oasis away from the crowds and casinos. It's the Four Seasons Hotel, situated on the top floors of Mandalay Bay. You won't find any slots or gaming tables here. You will find peace, quiet, luxury, and an attentive staff.
For a fee, the hotel will send a limo for the 15-minute ride from the Henderson Executive Airport (KHND). If you'd rather have your own wheels, rental cars are available.
With large rooms, marble baths, over-sized tubs, expansive views through floor-to-ceiling windows, gourmet and casual dining, you may never want to leave the luxury of the Four Seasons. However, if you want to get in on the action, the Las Vegas Strip is just outside the hotel's private entranceway. For those wanting to explore beyond the Strip, check with the concierge, who can arrange a myriad of activities including golf, tennis, horseback riding, rafting, hiking, mountain climbing, and excursions to Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the Grand Canyon.
Meanwhile, back at the hotel, spend some time on the pool deck. Tropical landscaping, arbors to protect you from the desert sun, and attendants waiting to refresh you with a spritz of Evian make this a calm respite. No bathing suit? No problem. The hotel even has a disposable bathing suit just for you.
Well-being and relaxation are waiting for you at the Spa at Four Seasons. Exotic ingredients and scents, along with ancient Jamu Asian rituals, will make you feel as though you've been transported to the Orient.
Dining at the Four Seasons is sure to please the most discerning palate. Try the "Dining My Way"menu at the Verandah for a customized dinner. Your other dining choice is Charlie Palmer Steak, which was voted "
Best Steakhouse in Las Vegas"four months after it opened. In between meals, try afternoon tea with scones, tea sandwiches, and pastries.
Milk, cookies, popcorn, sodas, and child-size bathrobes welcome younger guests. The concierge will gladly assist families with outing suggestions and babysitters. If you're looking for elegant service, attention to detail, endless activities, and nightlife, this is the hot spot for you.
Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites
Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Get out your passport and head to magical Victoria, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Named in honor of Queen Victoria, this picturesque city is rich in history, heritage, beauty, and gardens. Thanks to a mild climate, this "
City of Gardens"
is in bloom year round. Visitors from all over the world vacation at this hot spot, which has twice been named Best City in the Americas.
Getting here is not complicated. Check with Canadian Customs (888.226.7277) for needed forms and information. Land at Victoria International Airport (CYYJ), clear customs, rent a car, or catch the airport shuttle ($15 Canadian) for the 35-minute ride to the Chateau Victoria Hotel.
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