Bulgari's spot in Milan overlooks a botanic garden and is an oasis from urban bustle. Where better to unwind from a hard day of shopping? Both hotels are co-owned and managed by the Luxury Division of Marriott International.

It's a pity that so few people are authorized to speak on behalf of the megalithic company, or I would be imparting some behind-the-scenes scoop.

Suffice it to say that Bulgari, which reaps more than $1 billion in annual sales, is upholding its reputation on myriad fashion fronts.