Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia

Well, by now I think it’s clear that I’m a big fan of Hotwire.  Everyone knows the one big drawback to Hotwire…that whole “Drumroll, please…” moment when you wait to see if that nameless four-star is actually a faded, neglected vestige of 1960’s glory.  I actually have friends who are so bothered by Hotwire’s sheer mysteriousness that they refuse to use it.  Which I find to be a crying shame…since Hotwire has never let me down.  Never!

But, for those of you need to know where you’re committing to staying, I have good news for you.  Hotwire has a regular newsletter called the Travel Ticker that advertises stunning deals on named hotels (and fully documented vacation packages too, for that matter).  In today’s Travel Ticker, I received notice of a sweet deal for Philadelphia’s brand-spanking-new Hotel Palomar (starting at $109/night).  In the last post, I told you about having enjoyed myself fully in the DC Hotel Palomar, and it looks as though the Philly one is every bit as lovely.  Here’s the little blurb:

The Hotel Palomar is located two blocks from Rittenhouse Square in the center Philly’s action. After a full day of exploring, come back to the hotel for a complimentary wine hour in the lobby. Traveling with more people? You can upgrade to room with two queen beds for $15 more. Want to indulge? Get a king spa room for $30 more, or a one-bedroom suite for $50 more.

Since I am a big fan of privacy, hotel suites–with bedrooms that have actual doors– have always appealed to me.  Palomar offers two different suite arrangements:  deluxe and presidential.  The presidential suite is a very nice 550 square feet, includes living-room seating for six, and a sofabed.  Nice to be able to hang out as a family in a comfy, conversational setting.

What does the hotel offer kids?  Well, here’s another nice surprise about Palomar, which is owned by the Klimpton hotel chain.  Klimpton has been marketing aggressively to families with young children.

For Babies and Toddlers:

• Cribs or Playards are available for complimentary loan (You can request this when you make your reservation)
• The hotel restaurant offers high chairs and booster seats, or you can have one delivered to your room for in-room dining.
• In-room child safety kits include outlet covers, toilet latches and nightlights.

For Kids:

• Each child is greeted with a special welcome gift upon arrival.
• List of kid-friendly activities in the area, including parks, restaurants and enriching classes.
• Child-size animal print robes are available upon request.

The hotel concierge can also set you up with accredited babysitting services upon request.

Hotel Palomar is located right in the heart of Philadelphia.  You can do a family walking tour, visit any number of museums and historic attractions, see a 76′ers game at the Wachovia Center.  Check out the hotel’s page on nearby attractions for a full list of all that is steps away from the lobby doors.

And, while you’re exploring the birthplace of our republic, consider enhancing your own pursuit of happiness.  Check out the Presto Pink website for a full list of all the ways Presto Pink’s DC-metro-area personal conciege service can help you free up your time, open up your home to others, and enjoy your family once you’re back home.