Portsmouth, NH—(October 2009)—Forget cobwebs, creaky floors, and dusty furniture. Some spirits prefer to haunt high-end hotels where they can spend the afterlife in style. "You really can't blame them," jokes Mike Thiel, Founder and President of Hideaways International, Inc. (www.Hideaways.com). "Who wouldn't enjoy spending eternity in a luxe hideaway where class, comfort, and contentment are paramount?"
When travelers are looking to combine paranormal with posh and sightseeing with frightseeing, Thiel knows just where to send them.
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Ottawa, Canada
 How it's haunted: 12 days before the hotel's grand opening in 1912, its chairman, Charles Melville Hays, died on the Titanic. Some say Hays did indeed make it for the opening, and that his spirit still occasionally makes an appearance to staff and guests.
Why it's a hideaway: This delightfully grand hotel rises from the center of Canada's capital, a landmark of turquoise-topped turrets, and has impressed its guests for generations with its superb attributes, from enchanting views of Parliament to a distinctive Art Deco-style pool.
Fort Garry Hotel
Winnipeg, Canada
How it's haunted: Adrenaline-seeking guests specifically request room 202, as it's supposedly haunted by the ghost of a woman who hung herself in the closet. Many have reportedly seen her hovering at the foot of their bed.
Why it's a hideaway: Built in 1913 as the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway hotel, this imposing yet inviting hotel exemplifies the "Golden Age" of travel with its Crystal Ballroom and Concert Hall, while still embracing the "Modern Age" with its jogging track and Wi-Fi.
Hotel Londra Palace
Venice, Italy
 How it's haunted: In 1877, in room 106, Tchaikovsky reportedly started to compose his 4th Symphony. Guests occasionally report seeing him in the room, still working on his composition.
Why it's a hideaway: This graceful neoclassical palace is filled with rich damask wall coverings, Biedermeier antiques, leaded-glass windows, and pink-marble baths. But its best feature might just be the stunning view across the lagoon to the island of San Giorgio, with the city's signature gondolas bobbing in the foreground.
Ballygally Castle Hotel
Co. Antrim (near Belfast), N. Ireland
How it's haunted: According to legend, 400 years ago, when Lord James Shaw's heir was born, he took the baby and locked his wife in the tower. While trying to escape, Lady Isobella fell to her death from a window. She is reputed to be a "friendly" spirit who walks the corridors.
Why it's a hideaway: Set on the Antrim coast—along a hauntingly beautiful stretch known as the Glens of Antrim—this castle hotel, dating back to 1625 and renovated in 2007, has an abundance of Irish character and charm.
Napa River Inn
Napa, California
How it's haunted: The owners of the original building—a feed store, built in the 1800s—are said to still be in residence. Guests have reported hearing doors opening and closing by themselves, a man's footsteps in the halls, and elevators going up and down with no one inside.
Why it's a hideaway: This quaint, historic retreat is set on 2.5 riverfront acres in downtown Napa. In a town where hotels seem to be going modern, this one captures the old elegances and new luxuries of Napa Valley effortlessly, from its clawfoot tubs to its town car that's available for complimentary transportation within the city.
"Send the Ghostbusters home," says Mike. "These hideaways are the most comfortable places to go when you're hoping for an exceptional stay . . . and to hear a bump in the night."
About Mike Thiel
Mike Thiel founded Hideaways International in 1979 and, over the last three decades, has become a sought-after guest on radio and television news and talk shows across the country.
To arrange an interview with Mike Thiel, contact Gail Richard at 603-430-4433, ext. 112, or pr@hideaways.com.
About Hideaways International
 Hideaways International, Inc., which operates the Hideaways Aficionado® Club, has been seeking the best-of-kind and the out-of-the-ordinary for its savvy, discerning, and well-traveled members for more than three decades. Members, who hail from around the world, range from notable celebrities, musicians, publishers, authors, captains of industry, and politicians to ordinary folks with extraordinary taste. All are part of this lively community with a passion for travel away from the madding crowds.
For more information, visit www.Hideaways.com or contact Gail Richard at 603-430-4433, ext. 112, or pr@hideaways.com. |