Fairmont hotels are a North American legend, with more operations in the region than anywhere else in the world. It all began in 1907 with the Fairmont San Francisco, and today there are more than 70 Fairmont landmarks dotted from London and Singapore to Dubai and NYC.
Whilst all uniformly pride themselves on five-star service, one-of-a-kind experiences and lavish amenities, they each have something distinct to offer loyal guests. I visited two of America’s most exciting Fairmont properties – in Dallas and Austin – to outline what travellers can expect in terms of luxury from the brand.
An unforgettable location
Just like Fairmont’s Savoy in London or The Plaza in NYC, the Dallas and Austin locations are nothing short of spectacular and provide ways for guests to connect to the true spirit of their destination.
In cosmopolitan metropolis, Dallas, Fairmont Dallas sits among the twinkling skyscrapers but within a thriving arts district. You’re a stone’s throw away from the Dallas Museum of Art, and Klyde Warren Park. Meanwhile in Austin (aka ‘the live music capital of the world’), Fairmont Austin sits in the Central Business District, but once again, is mere steps away from an alternative setting of the greenery of Palm Park and Waller Creek. Guests can keep work matters to one side, and when complete, can enjoy nature on the other. It is the perfect balance of business and pleasure.
Gold private floors
VIP Fairmont clientele can expect a truly discreet VIP stay thanks to a dedicated floor for select guests. Fairmont Gold guests check-in via a separate reception, have exclusive use of a private lounge which serves complimentary breakfast, canapés and cocktails, and there’s even a Fairmont gold manager at their disposal, who is available to cater to just about any request, be it tickets to a hockey game or a paddle boat rental.
Lavish suites
It’s no wonder Fairmont suites have seen celebrities, royalty and politicians return again and again, they are both a home away from home, and also a sumptuous vacation treat.
The Fairmont gold presidential suite in Dallas is classic in style but with contemporary art and furnishings, integrating a majestic dining space with a television mirror, or classic bedroom boudoir with abstract details.
The Austin property’s rooms are sparkling new with grandeur aesthetics and high ceilings. We especially adore their bathrooms (complete with deep soaking tubs, bath salts and plenty of surfaces on which to rest champagne) and the dramatic views over the city. Both locations stock Le Labo products, plush white robes and slippers, have huge Chromecast compatible televisions, and supply hot beverage facilities within their spacious suites.
Meals of your life
Luxury travellers have a long list of stellar eats, so it takes something extra special to really stand out from the crowd. Fairmont’s dining and drinking options are occasion-worthy for even the most indulgent of personalities.
Take for example Garrison at the Fairmont Austin. The modern American grill house is winner of the AAA Four Diamond award and is dedicated to open flame, wafting smoke and the highest quality meats, seafood and local produce available. The rib eye sets the bar for rib eyes – it is hard to beat. The quality, creativity and experience are down to the passionate and skilled culinary team who have the highest standards of ingredients and preparation. Garrison alone is worth a private jet flight.
Super star R and R
For those seeking some R and R, look no further than within the hotel itself. Both properties have massive pools fully equipped with luxury loungers, bars and splendid views. Fairmont definitely knows how to impress with water, and these are a mental transportation to faraway destinations. In terms of the spas, Fairmont Austin offers treatments driven by the soothing sensory experiences of the Texas Hill Country. The property has nine treatment rooms including two VIP couples’ suites and luxurious solariums containing saline soaking pool, eucalyptus steam grotto and European dry heat sauna.
Bucket list experiences
In 2008, Fairmont began to support honeybee health by placing beehives on rooftop gardens. Today, their Bee Sustainable program features over 20 honeybee apiaries and wild pollinator bee hotels at Fairmont locations worldwide, including Dallas, San Francisco and Boston. If you are there in the right season, you may well be able to check ‘beekeeping’ off your bucket list.
Fancy something extra personalised to yourself or a loved one? In Austin, you can buy out all the rooms on one side of the building and have the team strategically light up initials of your choice. A proposal, birthday or other special occasion would certainly be long remembered and revered if you treated a loved one to this surprise.
Factbox
For more information on the Fairmont Hotels worldwide, visit fairmont.com
For the Fairmont Dallas visit fairmont.com/dallas
For the Fairmont Austin visit fairmont.com/austin
