If staying in a next-level luxury hotel is your idea of the perfect vacation, global travelers will be thrilled to know our favorite boutique luxury hotel specialists Mr & Mrs Smith have formed an exclusive partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts. This means as IHG Rewards Members you can now stay at over 500 stunning Mr and Mrs Smith boutique hotels in amazing destinations all over the globe, while redeeming and earning rewards points on all bookings. Winning.
The Mr and Mrs Smith x IHG partnership has doubled IHG’s existing luxury and lifestyle hotel collection – which includes beloved brands like Six Senses Hotels Resorts & Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo, and Vignette Collection – giving you access to more global must-visit destinations.
Speaking of, right now we have our sights set on exotic Marrakech, the private island of Mustique, the sunny wine-filled regions of California, the impossibly chic Hamptons, the stunning Amalfi Coast and vibrant, culture filled China. Add them to your 2022 wishlist and be sure to check into these dreamy Mr. & Mrs. Smith properties where an elevated hotel stay combined with exceptional design and a game-changing experience awaits.
Kasbah Tamadot, Morocco
It was during one of his world-famous balloon expeditions that Sir Richard Branson first saw this breathtaking property in the Atlas Mountains outside Marrakech. The British legend spent seven years transforming the traditional Moorish-style kasbah and intricately walled courtyards before opening Kasbat Tamadot as a luxurious 28-room hotel. The elegant grounds cascade through lush gardens, cactus, rose beds, apple and cherry trees; the signature Asounfou spa (Berber for ‘relaxation’) features five treatment rooms, an indoor pool, sauna and traditional hammam. Views are spectacular – every way you turn, the surrounding peaks of Mount Toubkal rise majestically into the clouds. Residents of the estate’s bijou farm are also intriguing: four mules, three donkeys, two camels, and a herd of goats.
Luxury Factor
Rooms feature traditional Moroccan furnishings and antiques – shaggy white and black Berber rugs, brass chandeliers, clawfoot tubs, plush seating – many inherited from the Kasbah’s previous owner, Luciano Tempo, a renowned antique and art dealer. The separate Berber-style tented suites offer the same authentic furnishings but with private terraces, outdoor jacuzzis and stunning mountain views. Join fellow guests for pre-dinner cocktails (or local wines) on the rooftop terrace or by the pool, then part ways for dinner – opt for the a la carte menu or traditional Berber feast – served fireside at Kanoun, the property’s restaurant. For a more private setting, dine in secluded spots around the resort-like under the stars, by the reflecting pool.
Curated Experience
Explore the mountains by mule on a guided trek through the Orika Valley to the Saffron Gardens (where the hotel sources its beauty products). Or for a more challenging hike, the hotel will arrange a guided two-day trek to the Toubkal peak, the highest point in North Africa. Visit a nearby Berber village, then by special arrangement with the chef, spend time in the kitchen learning how to make your own traditional Moroccan and Berber dishes.
White Water, Cambria, California, USA
Located just off California’s famed Highway 1, and once a simple roadside motel, the recently reincarnated White Water seaside lodge – with interiors by Nina Freudenberger – is a showstopper. A sleepover here feels more like stepping into a magazine spread or Instagram shoot than a hotel room – so decadent with its laidback Californian vibe, beach-house whites, Baltic birch woods, organic textures, and Aesop bath products. Just steps from secluded Moonstone Beach, a favorite among surfers – hire a board and try your luck, or just hang on the sand and marvel at the ocean as the locals tackle the swells.
The Luxury Factor
For the best view in the house, book an ocean view king room, offering panoramic views of the Pacific. There’s no restaurant, but you likely won’t notice —pad down to the lobby for sharing plates like cheese fondue and charcuterie before returning for a soak in the outdoor tub – perfect for stargazing – with a bottle of wine from the hotel’s favorite vineyards in nearby Paso Robles. Awaken to the lull of crashing waves; fresh pastries and coffee delivered to your door.
Curated Experience
Borrow one of the hotel’s complimentary Linus bikes and explore the boardwalk. Or take the scenic route — follow the looping trails at the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve winding through forest pines and rolling grasslands to arrive at the ocean where you can enjoy stunning coastal views and search migrating whales. Later, sip your way through the nearby Paso Robles wine region (book ahead for tastings at Tablas Creek, Tin City, and Austin Hope). Save time too for a drive up the coast (15 minutes) to Hearst Castle to explore the former newspaper tycoon’s mind-boggling mansion of art and antiquities, and its own resident herd of zebras.
Palazzo Avino, Ravello, Italy
Known affectionately by locals as the “pink palace,’ Palazzo Avino (owned by the Avino Famiglia) is the crown jewel of Ravello and the entire Amalfi Coast. Set high on the hilltop amidst terraced olive and citrus groves, it was originally built in the 12th century as a private villa and today the truly exquisite hotel has become a destination unto itself. We love the Italianate grandeur: vaulted ceilings, polished furnishings, decorative tiled floors, and stunning views from seemingly every angle. Suites open onto private balconies overlooking the Mediterranean; Michelin star Rossellini’s looks onto fishing boats one thousand feet below, as does the decadent Lobster & Martini Bar, serving as its name suggests – fresh local lobster paired with a menu of 70 martinis, champagne, or prosecco. The gym and rooftop solarium, with side-by-side jacuzzis, also come with sea views.
The Luxury Factor
Everything about this hotel is beyond luxurious. The Michelin star restaurant, the wine list, full of judiciously-picked vintages from some of Italy’s best regions and the 43 rooms and suites, with their gigantic comfy beds, Vietri tiles, one-off antiques and objets d’art (handpicked by the Avino family), the Dr. Vranjes toiletries, and the elaborate turndown. And don’t even get us started on the views, every room looks out over the ocean, mountains, or both. We love too, the most recent aesthetic, a collection of seven new guest rooms designed by renowned Italian architect Cristina Celestino, featuring Moorish accents, mother-of-pearl flourishes, and ethereal tones. Also noteworthy: The Pink Closet by Mariella Avino – a second-generation owner of the hotel known for her stylish, killer-heel fashion – a high-end boutique located across the street that is a showcase of the best established and emerging Italian brands, as well as fun designer collaborations.
Curated Experience
Exploring Ravello’s stunning ancient gardens is an absolute must-do here, as is the steep walk from Palazzo Avino to the traditional fishing village below. Another highlight is cooking with Mamma Agata, in her nearby home chef school. The famous matriarch, who once cooked for Elizabeth Taylor and Jackie Kennedy, today shares her Italian favorites (handmade pasta, secret sauces, yummy lemon cake) with travelers from around the world.
Cotton House, Mustique Island, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
The only hotel on private Mustique Island, Cotton House – like the island itself – has a colorful history. Mustique first made its way into popular consciousness in 1958 when Scottish aristocrat Colin Tennant (later Lord Glenconner) bought the island sight unseen despite it having no running water, jetty, or landing strip. He originally intended to plant cotton. When that idea went bust, Tennant gifted his friend, the late Princess Margaret, a plot of land as a wedding gift so she could build a villa like many in the inner circle intended to do. As the first villas were being built, homeowners needed a place to stay so the island’s old cotton warehouse was converted into a small hotel. Designed by theatrical visionary Oliver Messel, The Cotton House maintains its colonial, West Indies vibe – but with a modern influence. The 17 rooms and suites come with elegant, yet colorful palettes, four-poster king-size beds, Bamford bath products, private verandahs; many with plunge pools and ocean views. The Residence, a private two-bedroom suite tucked away on its own hilltop, comes with a large swimming pool, outdoor shower, seating area, and views of L’Ansecoy Bay.
The Luxury Factor
Just being on your own private island is luxurious. Celebs Mick Jagger, Tommy Hilfiger, and Bryan Adams own homes here and the stunning Caribbean paradise has long been an A-listers vacation destination du jour. Beaches are never crowded (everyone must be invited to the island by homeowners or as guests of the hotel) and you’re more likely to encounter one of the ubiquitous resident tortoises than another human. Though it must be said, it’s hard to beat the hotel’s famous Tuesday night cocktail party, held in the elegant Great Room. Low-key (bubbly champagne and hand-passed hors d’oeuvres), yet high-glam as everyone (yes everyone) on the island turns out. Do your best not to be star-struck.
Curated Experience
There are no cars, here everyone drives ‘mules,’ (aka fancy golf carts) so rent one to explore the island, stopping by Lagoon (tranquil, Caribbean side) and Macaroni (Atlantic) beaches along the way. Spend time ‘downtown,’ poking into the Pinkhouse Boutique for chic hand-designed swimsuits and kaftans by Lotty B., then dance the night away at Basil’s world-famous overwater bar. Don’t miss out on the island’s ‘beach picnic’ culture- these lavish barefoot banquets, complete with fine china, crystal, and flowers take place under thatched palapas in the sand. If invited (invites are a way of life here), be sure to go or arrange (with the hotel chef) to host your own.
Sangha by Octave, Suzhou, China
Beyond its status as a ‘wellness hotel,’ Sangha Retreat by Octave, set on 47 lakefront acres, is the utopian vision of billionaire Frederick Chavalit Tsao who created the property as a place where ancient healing and modern medicine come together in perfect harmony. The result is a soothing, tranquil environment – reclaimed woods and stones, oil-paper umbrella lighting suspended from the ceiling, giant windows – eloquently setting the stage for guests to begin their transformative life-changing journey. The experience focuses on seven key practices: diet, breath, sleep, exercise, meditation, mindfulness, and self-development. A stay here begins with a comprehensive health check upon arrival and includes doctor-approved cuisine, a stunning spa, and luxuriously, serene accommodations. Even the location ( just 15 minutes by bullet train from Shanghai) offers the best of both worlds.
The Luxury Factor
Award-winning NY-based architect Calvin Tsao (and Frederick’s brother) designed Sangha Retreat using deeply rooted feng shui principles: rounded edges versus sharp right angles to allow for better flow of energy throughout the property; quartz crystals or mandalas placed under every bed to ensure a good night’s rest. Beds come wrapped in Egyptian linens with a decadent pillow menu, rooms feature a soothing palette with reclaimed wood and floor-to-ceiling windows, some with views of the lake. The cuisine is just as mindful. The restaurant, ‘Thought for Food,’ has a zen vibe with its muted colors, blue and green accents, and Taoism-inspired lampshades, while ingredients are sustainably sourced, organic, and biodynamic and the menu was created in consultation with physicians and nutritionists.
Curated Experience
Devote an entire day to the spa’s impressive 12-step hydrotherapy circuit. Begin by crossing through the ‘transformational tunnel’ leading to the hydrotherapy experience, wet areas, treatment rooms, rhassoul and hammam chambers, watsu pool. Make time, too, to try the spa’s signature ‘rebirth massage,’ which delivers on its name by providing a deep release of blocked and stagnant energy. To get your legs moving, take a guided hike up Tiger Hill in Suzhou where you will be doubly rewarded with mesmerizing views.
The 1770 House, The Hamptons, USA
Named after the year it became an inn (the original house was built in 1663), The 1770 House in East Hampton is an elegant, colonial-era (think exposed beams, antique fireplaces) hotel bordered by a white-picket-fence – so very Hamptons – and spectacular flower gardens. The historic, speakeasy tavern, a favorite of locals for its small bar, wood-burning fireplace, stained glass windows, and exposed brickwork, is perfect for drinks and casual fare (meatloaf, burgers, and oysters are always in demand). But it is the inn’s impressive, 12-table main restaurant, one of the most celebrated in the Hamptons and renowned for its sophisticated menu and Wine Spectator award-winning wine list, that makes this a foodie’s dream destination.
The Luxury Factor
Each of the six suites (some with fireplaces) comes with elegant antique furnishings, Molton Brown amenities, Frette linens, and Dean and Deluca snacks. We especially love the restored, two-story, two-bedroom, two-bath carriage house, perfect for a small family or two couples traveling together. The shared living space offers a neutral palette and a living room with a fireplace. Dinner at the inn is also a dreamy affair, as Chef Michael Rozzi’s menu features dishes such as hand-cut fettuccine, seared Montauk fluke, and seasonal local ingredients.
Curated Experience
Awaken to a homemade breakfast (buttermilk pancakes, eggs to order) at the inn before heading to the beach, tranquil in winter without the crowds, for a long walk or bike ride by the sea. Marvel at the stunning mansions off Lily Pond Lane (celebrities Katie Couric, Gwyneth Paltrow, Sir Paul McCartney are just a few of those who own houses). Shop the quaint boutiques (Ralph Lauren, Obligato, Loveshackfancy, Goop by Gywneth Paltrow), visit a winery (or 20) the area’s vino culture is popping. Or for an artful immersion, explore the farmhouse once shared by abstract expressionist Jackson Pollock and his wife, Lee Krasner. Their personal furnishings, vinyl record collection, and the floor art where Pollock splattered his masterpieces are on display.
WHY YOU NEED TO JOIN THE IHG REWARDS PROGRAM RIGHT NOW
- Expand your global travel wish list with access to 500 luxury and boutique Mr & Mrs Smith hotels available on IHG booking channels.
- IHG Rewards points can be earned and redeemed at Mr & Mrs Smith hotels when booked through IHG’s direct channels.
- The exclusive partnership means IHG’s members have more choice when it comes to global destinations – Mr & Mrs Smith properties are located in 11 countries where IHG is not yet present.
- IHG Rewards members receive complimentary Smith Extras, including room upgrades (when available).
- Elite IHG Rewards members will receive their standard tier Bonus Points on eligible room rates (100% Spire Elite, 50% Platinum Elite, 10% Gold Elite).
- InterContinental Ambassadors and Royal Ambassadors and Kimpton Inner Circle members will receive a complimentary room upgrade (when available), and a Mr & Mrs Smith GoldSmith welcome gift.
