Tag Archives: Collette Guided Tours

America’s Historic Hotels by Collette Tours

 Collette has just announced a brand new tour offering travellers a chance to stay in some of America’s most elegant and sought-after hotels. America’s Historic Hotels is on sale now for departures from May 2017 and will feature the Boston Park Plaza Hotel, the Omni Shoreham Hotel, the Tarrytown Hotel Estate, Omni Homestead Resort, Omni Bedford Springs Resort and the Equinox Resort.

Omni Shoreham Hotel Pool
Omni Shoreham Hotel Pool built in 1930.

“We are excited to be able to offer a tour with fantastic accommodation that is so rich in American history and culture. These hotels have played host to some of the great figures of American history, so our clients are in good company!’ said Alison Mead, Collette’s Australian Business Manager.

For travellers who dream of walking in the footsteps of celebrities, world-leaders, political dignitaries and sporting legends, Collette’s America’s Historic Hotels tour is not to be missed.

Guests staying at the Omni Shoreham Hotel will be in the company of true Hollywood glamour and glitterati with past-notable guests including Judy Garland, Aretha Franklin, The Beatles and New York Yankees star and ex-lover of Marilyn Monroe, Joe Di Maggio. A true Washington landmark, the Shoreham has accommodated countless US Presidents and politicians, including Barack Obama. It was also the venue for Franklin D. Roosevelt’s first inaugural ball.

Omni Bedford Springs Resort
Omni Bedford Springs Resort

With exquisitely decorated suites, including the decadent Presidential Suite, complete with its own library, crackling fireplace, lavishly-appointed drawing room with tasselled drapes, grand master- bathroom and luxurious bedding, travellers on this tour will feel like royalty.

On day two of the itinerary travellers will discover Washington D.C. with a guided tour offering magnificent views of the White House and a visit to the World War II Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. After a day of exploring the city’s decision-making capital, guests can relax and unwind at the 250-year-old Omni Homestead Resort in Virginia, famous for its mineral springs.

i Bedford Springs Hotel Rooms
Omni Bedford Springs Hotel Rooms

The Omni Homestead was visited by renowned US President Thomas Jefferson in 1818. Suffering from rheumatism, Jefferson found great relief in the healing properties of the natural springs, which is why they are now known as the Jefferson Pools. While staying at the Omni Homestead, guests can use their day of leisure to visit the Springs or indulge in some rejuvenation and pampering at the spa. For the more adventurous traveller, other highlights include mountain- biking and hiking around the hotel’s picturesque trails.

Tarrytown House Estate
Tarrytown House Estate built over 165 years ago.

Journeying on to Pennsylvania, travellers will stop at Fallingwater, Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous creation that is now a National Historic Landmark and an international architectural marvel, before settling into the Omni Bedford Springs Resort. The Bedford Springs property boasts eight mineral springs and has been a popular retreat for the wealthy upper echelon for many years. Built in Colonial style, this stately hotel has hosted 13 US Presidents including George W. Bush, James K. Polk and Ronald Reagan, and served as the ‘Summer White House’ for President James Buchanan during his time in office.

Tarrytown House Estate is where old worlds and new worlds crossover. With a brick facade, complete with turrets, majestic archways and chimney stacks, together with its expansive lush green lawns, the estate is reminiscent of a fairy-tale. The juxtaposition of this charming exterior and contemporary amenities like the fitness centre and outdoor tree-lined swimming pool, make the hotel serve as a virtual time machine for travellers on this tour.

During their stay at Tarrytown, guests can explore New York’s splendid Hudson River Valley, or spend their free time wandering the gardens, stopping to meet the Lady of the Estate – a friendly black Labrador brought on staff to chase the geese on the lawns.

Nestled amongst the panoramic Green Mountains of Vermont, the Equinox Resort is another highlight of the tour. Through its fusion of country charm and New England flair, the property tells the story of the changing times in American history.

Tarrytown House Estate rooms
Tarrytown House Estate rooms built over 165 years ago.

For political-history buffs, a stay at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel is ideal. The décor and architecture of the hotel has been reflected in its clientele over the years, hosting all but two US Presidents since its opening in 1927. During their stay, travellers can check out the extravagant Presidential suite, decorated in New England flair and fitted out with custom millwork cabinetry.