AS I MAKE my way over to The Peninsula Chicago, one of the smartest hotels in town, I stroll past the city’s leading district, Magnificent Mile, filled with champion dining and shopping spots, plus historic landmarks like the Water Tower.
Since its grand opening in 2001, the hotel has claimed a great number of awards and accolades, and as I reach the entrance, I begin to see why.
I’m knocked out by the overwhelming ease of luxury that greets me beyond the doors. Of the hotel’s 339 rooms, 82 are suites, including the singularly opulent Peninsula Suite, where I’ll be staying, that offers magnificent views over Lake Michigan from its wraparound private terrace.
Exterior of The Peninsula Chicago
Once I’m all checked in, I have a look around, taking in The Peninsula’s highly regarded artworks, before finally entering my incredibly large suite where a baby grand piano and jacuzzi battle for my attention.
Each room features tablet technology in 11 languages, bedside electronic panels to allow lighting and temperature control, stunning deluxe marble bathrooms with walk-in showers, and LED flat-screen TVs with a mountain of entertainment options.
Lake Suite Master Bedroom
Unsure as to how I’m going to be drag myself away from such comfort, I begin to scour the eating arrangements for dinner later on, and I’m delighted to see the bundle of choices awaiting me. The Shanghai Terrace, one of four restaurants, immediately catches my eye with its award-winning Shanghainese and Cantonese dishes, and already I know that I’m in for a treat.
by Alicia Tomkinson
Rates start from $450 in a Superior Room on a room only basis. Visit peninsula.com/chicago