We know: Hampton Hotels properties definitely don’t make for a luxury chain. However, for those of you with severe allergies or children with allergy-induced asthma, this trend-bucking news heralds a pampering of sorts that may be hard to find at some higher-star properties.

Hampton Hotels, which includes Hampton Inns and Hampton Inns & Suites and is currently part of Hilton Hospitality, has decided to embark upon a scent-free program, a move away from a recent trend of developing and promoting signature scents as part of a brand image. Westin has its White Tea, Four Points has a homey cinnamony-apple thing going on - all okay on the surface but to us, setting up some possible problems. What about people who hate those smells? Or, as we noted when we posted about hypoallergenic rooms, what about those with allergies to strong scents of any kind?

We understand that scent can be an important part of an experience - it’s been proven that a smell is one of the most powerful ways to evoke a specific memory. But we think it’s a bit of a risk to use it in branding by forcing it on people. For a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the potential allergy issue, using a scent hotel-wide is just not a smart program to us.

Well now, you can depend on Hampton Hotels in a pinch. Of course, you can always call ahead to see if your preferred hotel is indulging in the olfactory overload fad. (Note that if they are, even if they offer you a scent-free room you’ll most likely encounter the smell in common areas of the hotel.) Our guess, though, is that the top-tier luxury hotels will continue to limit the smells and exercise some sense in their scents.

Newsweek’s June 18 issue has a great article about kids’ playgrounds around the country. Since it’s always great to find a cool playground during a family vacation, especially if you’re staying in a hotel without one, we thought we’d give you a headsup. Although it’s in the Health section, it’s more about mental than physical health - the featured playgrounds go beyond seesaws and swings; they include very cool stimulating and interactive features that kids (and parents) will love. If you happen to be in any of these areas, give these a go: (more…)

We’re not sure if you feel like lining Paris Hilton’s pockets any further, but the Conrad Chicago’s package for expecting parents, The Stork, has just enough to make you feel pampered while leaving you enough time (and money) to spend elsewhere on Magnificent Mile. This one is not big on the Daddy amenities, which we’d prefer, but you’ll perfectly situated to shop for something special for the non-pregnant half.

Conrad Chicago Deluxe Guestroom, copyright Conrad Hospitality LLC (more…)