Sherman’s Travel magazine is in the midst of preparing its second annual Smart Luxury Awards – narrowing down candidates, consulting our crew of experts, and arguing aplenty. This year we’re asking our readers (that’s you!) to tell us about some their favorite smart luxury experiences. What is Smart Luxury?

• Getting 5-star amenities, treatment, and service at a 4-star hotel.
• Enjoying a meal in a back street bistro worthy of a Michelin star.
• Finding a tour guide who goes the extra mile to show you a city’s secret charms. 
• Smart Luxury is experiencing the best that travel has to offer and, while you’re doing it, getting the most value out of every dollar you spend.

Please “leave a comment” below and tell us about two of your favorite hotels, restaurants, or experiences, along with a quick story of how you came to it and how it was. We’ll pick the best Smart Luxury stories of 2009 to run this November in the magazine.

2008 Smart Luxury Award Winners