If Ian Schrager is the American godfather of boutique hotels, consider James and Tamara Lohan the British dons of hip boutique hotel guides. The Lohans have visited their fair share of destinations on romantic weekend getaways and often to be disappointed by deceiving photos, brochures and other hotel guides. Together with James' background in restaurant and nightlife and Tamara's in marketing, they founded Mr. and Mrs. Smith, a collection of hotel guides reviewed not only by them — James has been to over half of the 400 reviewed hotels — but also by chic tastemakers such as Stella McCartney, Philip Treacy and Dita von Teese to name a few. Mr. and Mrs. Smith, a British phrase for a clandestine romantic affair or escape, is perfect for couples looking for in-the-know information about hotels perfectly suited for those who may wish never to leave the hotel. However, the guides also give highly edited tips on the best of the best in each city including the best rooms in the hotel, restaurants, shops and even dress code.
In addition to the guides membership cards can be bought online for extra perks — Blacksmith, Silversmith and Goldsmith. Blacksmith gives access to exclusive deals and gifts at each hotel with specific gifts listed after each review in the guides so rewards are known in advance. Silversmith entitles the guest to travel and hotel benefits and other amenities such as airport lounge access. Finally, Goldsmith offers the highest quality with two levels plus upgrades, offers on luxury brands, invitation to VIP events, all Mr. and Mrs. Smith guides and travel accessories. At this level, Mr. and Mrs. Smith operates as a full on travel concierge booking everything you may need in addition to the hotel from transportation to recreation. Currently, the guides are grouped into three — the U.K./Ireland, the European coast and country and European cities, but stay tuned for The Global Shortlist a review of hotels worldwide exclusive for the U.S. In addition, hotels are also reviewed online with 10 to 15 being added each month upheld by rigorous standards with a "three strikes, you're out" policy. For the perfect escape to paradise it's best to get on board fast with Mr. and Mrs. Smith, because with this company even the sky is not the limit.