Do You Need Some Millennial Pink in Your Life?
Cerise, flamingo, and fuchsia all bring vivid images of shades of pink to mind, but what’s this about a colour dedicated to a generation? The pastel shade (coined ‘millennial pink’) began its rise back in 2015. Pantone picked rose quartz as the shade of the year, saying it represented a balance of ‘strength and softness’. Other trend forecasters say interior designers and creatives embraced the salmon shade after Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel premiered the year before.
We love both these theories. ‘Strength and softness’ is the kind of balance we strive for at Papinelle. The dreamy, timeless luxury of the European ski resort in the movie also had us smitten. Feeling inspired by this spirit of understated elegance, we decided to indulge in a little wanderlust and ‘visit’ some ‘millennial pink’ hotels around the globe. We bet you’re guaranteed sweet dreams in these delicious destinations!
#1 The Hawaiian Icon
The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, Waikiki
When this grande dame opened her doors in 1927, she did so with a Hollywood-worthy launch. The black-tie event featuring hundreds of A-list visitors sipping Champagne and dining on $10-dollar-a plate-meals set the tone, and it's been referred to as the ‘pink palace of the Pacific' since.
Today it’s got plenty more than its beachfront location, deco styling and a plethora of palm trees to ride on. The hotel has an in-house bakery, which serves up freshly baked confectionaries all day, garden yoga and a beachside mai tai bar. Think that represents our perfect day!
https://www.royal-hawaiian.com
#2 The Urban Resort
The Calile Hotel, Brisbane
When Brisbane births a new hotel, we get excited, particularly when it nails contemporary design like this one. Think pink marble, coral walls and lust-worthy pastel furniture complemented by accents of pale timber and brass. It's enough to set your Instagram feed on fire!
The breezy, tropical feel of the Calile has given the James Street precinct a distinct edge. Brissie’s heat is no match for the poolside glam of the stylish little number. Chic, shady cabanas provide respite while the Hellenika restaurant will keep you sustained on spritzes and saganaki. No complaints here.
Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town
#3 The Colonial Queen
Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town
It’s been ‘blushing’ for 101 years. Relaxing in the lush grounds of this gem, all one can see is the drama of Table Mountain that looms above it, and of course the signature pink walls of the 19-century structure. In the heart of South Africa’s most stylish city, you’re close to all the action, with the option to retreat to this beautiful city lung to cool off and relax. (True story, John Lennon meditated on these lawns).
Table Mountain has been recognised as one of the 7 Wonders of Nature thanks to its floral diversity. This botanical heritage is celebrated throughout ‘The Nellie' on hand-painted silk wallpapering and oversized sofas. Oh, the luxury.
https://www.belmond.com/hotels/africa/south-africa/cape-town/belmond-mount-nelson-hotel/
Rosas & Xocolate, Mérida, Mexico
#4 The Boutique Beauty
Rosas & Xocolate, Mérida, Mexico
It’s pink. You can't miss Rosas&Xocolate on the main street in the city of Mérida, which is close to the Gulf of Mexico. The visual treat was created by combining two colonial mansions. The bold décor choice pays a nod to the owner's mother (Mama Rosa). The second part of its name, and the philosophy of this sweet spot, is all about paying tribute to the ancient Mayan tradition of cacao production. Chocolate-based xocolatherapies are on the menu at the hotel’s spa (yum). It also hosts an authentic tequila bar.
Feel like stepping out of your rose-colour themed bedroom? The town’s boho markets and salsa lessons should keep you busy.
https://www.rosasandxocolate.com/en-gb
#5 The Miami Classic
The Don Cesar, Miami
Big skies, sweeping ocean views and a prime location on St. Pete Beach, The Don is a landmark. It’s been through a lot since it opened in 1928, but thanks to a reno in the 70’s (and multiple upgrades since) the fading beauty was saved for our generation to enjoy. What gives it bragging rights? The onsite Uncle Andy’s Ice Cream Parlor is the thing of beachy dreams.
La Maison Rose, Paris
#6 The Pretty Maisonette
La Maison Rose, Paris
If raspberry macarons and Laurent Perrier Rose are delicacies you fancy indulging in, La Maison Rose in Montmartre is waiting to complete your Parisian fantasy. This treasure has been serving up coffee for over a century and was a magnet for writers and other creatives (hello Picasso!) thanks to its modestly-priced meals. It remains part of a pocket of Paris that has retained its villagey vibes.
Sadly you cannot stay at The Rose, but do check in for a bowl of classic French onion soup. The area is brimming with Airbnbs run by locals that will deliver an authentic Parisian experience.
https://lamaisonrose-montmartre.com
On that note, Papinelle is off to Paris soon. Inspired by these dreamy destinations, we’ll be packing our Kate Modal Top and Boxer set in Rosewater with a matching Modal Summer Robe. We love a luxe hotel pillow menu, but can’t leave home without a Papinelle silk pillow. It’s such a tonic for the skin after long distance flights and helps you hold onto that glowy holiday look. We’d love you to follow our journey on Instagram. Bisous!
Words: Lori Cohen Images: Supplied