Imagine sipping Champagne above a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, or indulging in a heavenly spa treatment with the Manhattan skyline in view. Even if your wallet can't quite stretch to a full-blown luxury getaway, sprinkling a touch of luxe into your travels can turn an ordinary trip into a memorable adventure. That idea sparked our new series, Flights of Fancy, where we take you along for a trip to the luxury experiences around the cities we adore.
Dallas-Ft. Worth
Photo: Hôtel Swexan
This Secret Dallas Speakeasy Hotel Is A Luxe Experience For Any Budget
Situated near Dallas’s Uptown, the Harwood District spans 19 city blocks filled with dozens of shops, restaurants, and luxury office buildings (Rolex was the first tenant, back in 1984). This trendy area of the city has become known as a great place for a bistro lunch or happy hour cocktails, and last year welcomed its first luxury boutique hotel: Hôtel Swexan. Our writer takes you inside the luxe experiences, from cocktails to lodging.
San Francisco Bay Area
Photo: Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay
These Fancy Bay Area Brunch Spots Are Worth The Splurge
From Marin to Half Moon Bay, these fancy brunch experiences are more than just a meal; they deliver picture-perfect ambience and a memorable feast to enjoy with your best people. So pack your weekend best and head to the Bay for mimosas with a twist and a meal to savor.
Malibu, CA
Hotel June
Visiting Hotel June Malibu — A Retreat Worth Unplugging For
Hotel June has become an iconic PCH destination to unwind and delight in Malibu's thriving local community. As a typical millennial who's glued to their digital devices 24/7, our editor Ali couldn't be more thrilled for an excuse to log off and luxuriate in the present moment in the scenic hills of Malibu.
Miami
shutterstock
Miami Must: This 20-Course Tasting Has You Wash Your Hands In Chocolate
If your wallet doesn’t lend itself to a fully luxurious vacation, leave room for at least one splurge-worthy activity that’s sure to be a highlight of the trip. Our editor, a South Florida resident and self-proclaimed foodie, recommends Elcielo Miami.
Chicago
The Robey
Explore Chicago's Hippest Neighborhood From This Mid-Century Modern Hotel
One of the benefits of taking a trip to Chicago is that it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Sure, it’s not going to be super cheap to visit any major city, but in comparison to the U.S.’s coastal hotspots, Chicago is a fantastic deal. If you’re particularly intrigued by the Windy City’s emphasis on architecture and design, you shouldn’t miss The Robey hotel.
NYC
Bathhouse Williamsburg
This NYC Bathhouse Is The Best Spa Experience I've Ever Had
Bathhouse Williamsburg isn't exactly a spa. You won't get a facial — or even cucumbers on your eyes — there, but you'll find relaxation in so many other tangible ways. From their available array of amenities included in the day pass to the specific treatments like scrubs and massages, Bathhouse is perfect for taking a step back from a city that requires oh-so-many steps.
Follow along for all your travel needs with our Flights of Fancy series and Jetset Journeys series.