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The Penisula – Chicago, Il

Spend a Romantic Getaway at The Peninsula Hotel in Chicago

The five star, five diamond Peninsula Chicago is located in the heart of Chicago’s famed “Magnificent Mile.” With a long rich heritage hailing from Hong Kong, the Peninsula Chicago’s service is described as “Far Eastern graciousness combined with Midwestern hospitality.” It is also hailed as one of Chicago’s most lavish and sophisticated hotels.

Modeled after the famous Hong Kong landmark, the Midwest addition does not disappoint.  Peninsula Chicago Hotel offers 339 guest rooms furnished with the state-of-the-art furniture, providing the perfect atmosphere for a quiet and relaxed stay. Guest rooms include Executive, Junior, Deluxe, Grand Deluxe and Grand suites as well the Peninsula suite, in addition to the Superior King, Deluxe King and Grand Deluxe King or Double guest rooms collection. All guestrooms and suites feature marble bathrooms with separate shower, a deep soaking tub with a TV above the tub, and hands-free telephone.

The hotel’s in-room technology is cutting edge: A small “command station” by every bed allows guests to control all the lights, curtains, and room temperature without getting out from under the covers. The marble-filled bathrooms have separate shower stalls and tubs, vanities with plenty of room to sit, and another “command station” by the bathtub. Add in the flat-screen TVs and you have a classic hotel that’s very much attuned to the present.

The location is right on Michigan Avenue in the middle of the Magnificent Mile. There is a great reception area, a large lobby restaurant and bar, a café with outdoor seating and everything else you could want. The hotel sits next to Saks and across from Neiman Marcus. It’s also just a short taxi ride from the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and the Art Institute.

The afternoon tea service at the Peninsula Hotel is one of the best in Chicago. Afternoon Tea is served in grand style in The Lobby, a legacy that began many years ago at The Peninsula Hong Kong.  Enjoy rare teas from around the world, some created only for The Peninsula. High tea consists of a three tiered tray of finger sandwiches, scones and pastries creatively presented. When you are seated you may hear the sound of beautiful violin music play overhead by the live performer on the overhead stage. A cellist and violinist perform during tea on Fridays and Saturdays. On select Fridays, an informal fashion show is presented. Hours are 3 to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday.
The Lobby also offers a Chocolate Bar. From 8 p.m.-midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, an all-you-can-eat chocolate buffet features between 10 and 15 high-end confections, including cinnamon truffles, chocolate-dipped strawberries and chocolate pot de crème, plus beverages like lavender-scented white chocolate cocoa and more.

The Fitness Center is equipped with state of the art exercise facility with floor to ceiling windows overlooking Lake Michigan. It also includes a separate studio for various fitness classes including yoga and Pilates. In addition, the Fitness Center has a team of qualified trainers to suit your workout or exercise needs. The pool is set in a tranquil sun-drenched environment, surrounded by breathtaking views of Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile. Enjoy an aquatics class or just take a refreshing dip in the glass enclosed swimming pool. In the pool area, you may also enjoy healthy spa cuisine and a relaxing, muscle-soothing whirlpool.

It is the spa, occupying the entire top two floors, that steals the show. Rated as one of the top ten urban spas in the country, The Peninsula Spa is an oasis in which to rejuvenate one self. What better way to take in the Windy City’s imposing skyline than while soaking in a whirlpool tub or getting a stone massage? Immerse yourself in luxurious treatments for both body and mind. Therapies uniquely layer European and Asian philosophies for an entirely new, holistic experience. Spa treatments include the use of the Spa facilities, including the steam room and relaxation lounges.

New at The Peninsula Chicago! It’s All About Fun in a MINI! The Peninsula Chicago celebrates the arrival of two new MINI Cooper vehicles. Offered as a complimentary amenity to suite guests, the high performance head turners are a treat for those looking for some motoring thrills as they are whisked away for an adventure. The legendary family of hotels is known for having a fleet of cars to enhance the guest experience. The hotel has developed a series of tours focusing on popular themes, including culture, romance, entertainment, dining and of course, shopping.

The Peninsula Chicago is, without a doubt, the finest hotel in Chicago. The winning combination of elegant hotel facilities, uncompromising service, and haute cuisine is aimed at exceeding one’s expectations. And it does. For more information about The Peninsula Chicago, visit www.peninsula.com/chicago. You can also contact the hotel directly by calling (312) 337-2888. Ask about the Winter Escape special offered through March 31, 2010.

By Rich