GIFT LOUNGE AT THE QT HOTEL, SYDNEY f you’ve ever wanted to live like a millionaire, the Gilt Lounge can make that happen. Located in the trendy, modern QT boutique hotel in the heart of Sydney, their bar the Gilt Lounge serves up decadent cocktails without the milliondollar price tag. Relax in the lounge’s sultry, low-lit atmosphere and sip on their signature cocktail, The Millionaire. Made with apricot and lime juice, mixed with sloe gin, Appleton rum, and a splash of grenadine, this velvety smooth cocktail is rich with citrusy goodness. For drinks this good, you’ll have to plan your visit in advance; the bar is only open Wednesdays through Saturdays.
I
LE BAR AT THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL GEORGE V, PARIS nown for their exceptional service and extravagant Louis XIV décor, the Four Seasons Hotel George V sets the standard for romantic hotels in Paris. Famous for their Jeff Leatham designed floral arrangements and coterie of celebrity guests, it’s no wonder that one of their two hotel bars, aptly named Le Bar, is a staple among Parisians. Helmed by “the Artisan Bartender” Gregory Hazac, Le Bar serves up sexy cocktails that mirror its dark, intimate décor. You can’t leave the bar without trying Hazac’s most infamous drink, the Dream Lover, his take on a dirty martini that comes garnished with a single red rose petal. Want to make the drink at home? You can if you take Hazac’s cocktail course, exclusive to hotel guests.
K
VESPER BAR AT THE COSMOPOLITAN, LAS VEGAS n a town famous for its flowing liquor and over-the-top bars, The Cosmopolitan’s Vesper Bar is a standout. Inspired by the cocktail made famous in the 1953 James Bond classic Casino Royale, the Vesper Bar celebrates the evolution of cocktails around the world, but with their own signature twist. With cheeky cocktails names like “Streaker with a Cause” or “I’m Going to the Bathroom to Read” (Elvis’ famous last words), it’s hard to pick which concoction to try first. One of their best? The Sherry, Baby, a take on the Sherry Cobbler featuring apricot liqueur, fig-cinnamon syrup, orange, and, of course, sherry. Sip like a secret agent and enjoy the stunning 1960’s throwback décor while you throw back a cocktail or two. After all, what happens in Vegas… 109/RETREATMAG.COM
I