SEATTLE SPOTLIGHT
Four Seasons Olympic Hotel
By Patrice
Raplee
The Four Seasons Olympic Hotel is the graceful grand matriarch of Seattle
hotel history. Originally built in 1924, the Olympic has gone through
major renovations over the years, yet it has retained its elegant stature
and prominence in the Emerald City.
The Olympic has garnered countless awards and was written about in
every notable magazine and upper echelon hotel guide. But there is something
extraordinary that reflects on all who enter during the holiday season
that can't be expressed in words, only a feeling, child-like wonderment.
The Italian Renaissance-style lobby is aglow with the twinkle of tiny
lights and ornate decorations that are positioned on Christmas trees
with deft attention. Boughs of evergreen and red satin ribbon are draped
along upper balconies and down the sides of majestically curving staircases.
And the most salient adornment of all is the 25-foot Noble Fir bedecked
in shimmering silver and gold spheres, teddy bears and toys. This special
tree awaits a little patient from Childrens Hospital, who will turn
on its lights and begin the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
The Olympic's 23rd Annual Festival of Trees is a wonderful auction
that benefits the kids from Children's Hospital. Twenty-five beautifully
decorated trees, sponsored by local businesses, are displayed throughout
the hotel and are available for auction following the Tree Lighting
Ceremony.
The Olympic has many other holiday events for families and travelers
to enjoy. The Teddy Bear Suite, a child's dream room come true, is open
daily until Jan. 1. The Teddy Bears, courtesy of FAO Schwarz, come in
every size and color.
Different bear scenes are arranged and designed throughout the room
and several other visual surprises await the curious youngster. For
those wanting to take a break with their little ones and read a story
or two, there is a trunk of children's books available in the suite.
Before you go bear watching, you might want to enter to win tea at Four
Seasons Olympic Hotel and tickets to Seattle Children's Theatre's production
of Charlotte's Web.
Holiday Tea is a sumptuous treat served daily from 1 - 4 p.m. in the
exquisite garden until Dec. 30. This indoor atrium is a magical setting
festooned with white lights and poinsettias. The ambiance is perfect
for any social gathering and the afternoon goodies are energizing after
a busy day.
The hotel has several different dining options available; however,
the splendid Georgian has the most extensive menu. Recently remodeled
and subtly painted in 11 different shades of yellow, the dining room
is unsurpassed in its classic design. Crystal chandeliers, high ceilings,
acanthus leaf design detail work and intoxicatingly good cuisine make
this an experience to be savored.
From spa packages to special room packages, the Olympic has many different
ones to choose from throughout the year. A favorite for guests that
want to visit family and do a little shopping during the holidays, is
the Shoppers Overnight Package.
Whatever the occasion, the Four Seasons Olympic Hotel is a superb place
to stay and the staff is indisputably friendly, professional and capable.
For information call the Four Seasons Olympic Hotel, Seattle Wash. 206-621-1700.
Photo © Bohemian nomad picturemakers
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