Nothing quite says “summer” like going for a nice relaxing swim. But with these hotel pools, don't be too quick to jump in. Making a splash for their unique take on the classic swimming pool, from gravity-defying swim spots set atop skyscrapers to illusive infinity pools, prepare your inner daredevil for a dive as this list dips into some of the world's most insane hotel watering holes that are sure to keep you on your toes.... Read More
Way up in the deep north woods of Maine lies a magical place where the state’s natural splendor and beauty abounds. It’s where stressed out travelers (and even celebrities) come to find solace and an escape from their hectic routines.
After a near six-hour trek from Boston, we finally arrived at The Lodge at Moosehead Lake. We walked up to the massive front door and were quickly greeted by friendly innkeeper Linda Bortis, who runs the property along with her husband Dennis.... Read More
High up on a hillside, perched in isolation, sweeping views overlook the waters of a silvery blue lake. Welcome to serene Montana—Hotel Montana, in Switzerland.... Read More
Multi-colored villas boasting large verandas with dipping pools; wicker chairs and soft lounge seating; lush vegetation and melliferous flowers; palm tree branches bowing elegantly over a small lagoon—this is the essence of Eden Roc at Cap Cana, a tranquil retreat on the far east coast of the Dominican Republic.
Not just catering to individuals and families seeking a self-contained holiday, Eden Roc also boasts meeting and event space, suitable for destination weddings or corporate functions.... Read More
If you’re seeking a sense of Old World history in the Caribbean, look no farther than Hostal Nicolas de Ovando, a renovated five-star Accor hotel built on the site of the home of (and thus named after) the first Spanish Governor of the Dominican Republic’s capital city, Santo Domingo.... Read More
When price is no object, how do the super-rich choose which hotels to book? For music, fashion and media mogul Russell Simons, it comes down to location, location, location, and a simple matter of (vegetarian) taste. When you jet-set around the world, running multiple empires, it’s nice to know where to lay your head. “I know some good hotels,” says Simmons, putting it mildly.... Read More
One of the highlights of any visit to Kansas City, Missouri is a leisurely stroll through the delightful area of fashionable restaurants, stores and ornate fountains known as the Spanish Plaza. The stucco architecture of its buildings are modeled after those in Seville, with whom it has a long-established sister city relationship. Located directly in front of the plaza is The Raphael Hotel, which has been voted as one of the 2013 Travel + Leisure 500 World's Best Hotels.... Read More
A winding driveway through manicured lawns fronted by an imposing gatehouse with crenellated stone battlements—the first clues that something impressive lies beyond. But still, these elements ill-prepare one for the full splendor of the Ashford Castle, as the magnificent 13th century Irish edifice comes into view beyond the last gentle rise of land.... Read More
Just because Earth Month is officially over doesn’t mean you should run right out and fuel up your private jet without a care in the world. But if you must, you can take solace in knowing that your luxury hotel of choice may have already adopted some pretty unassuming ways to care for both you and the environment during your stay. You might not even be aware it’s happening, which is great because you have tan lines and dinner reservations to worry about on vacation. In case you were curious though, here are some green hotels that are looking out for our planet while you sit back, relax and get pampered.... Read More
Even amidst the colorful and culturally diverse islands of the Caribbean, the half-French, half-Dutch island of Sint Maarten/St. Martin holds a special multi-cultural place. It belongs to two European nations, and is split down the middle in its allegiance. The languages, currency, and atmosphere change markedly according to which side of the border you’re on; but whether tourists favor the shopping on the French side or the bar-hopping on the Dutch, they’re limited, lodging-wise.... Read More
Calling all art lovers, trendsetters and even those of us who envy fashion from the sidelines, W Santiango is the idyllic setting for your Chilean vacation. The urban playground of Santiago is host to a growing fashion movement and home to many creative artists and designers.... Read More
Among Panama’s finest hotels, Westin Playa Bonita Panamá ranks high on the list of luxurious accommodations located alongside the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforests and nearby to many tourist attractions, the resort boasts a prime locale for an intimate getaway or a sight-seeing filled vacation. Explore the area and visit sites such as Frank Gehry Biodiversity Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Panamá, Bridge of the Americas, or Panamá Old Cathedral. The best of the city is right outside your door!... Read More
The future has arrived. Okay, we realize that’s an oxymoron, but the future as seen in Sci-Fi thrillers about computers taking over the world – that future has arrived. citizenM hotel in London has scrapped the conventional concepts of hotel service, opting for a more modern approach through the use of Samsung Galaxy Tablets. Instead of face-to-face interactions with a concierge, the hotel has set-up said tablets for guests to actually check themselves in and out and manage other room amenities.... Read More
Evoking a timeless elegance and a wistful allure, L’Auberge Carmel, a Relais & Chateaux property, takes guests back to an old Europe. A time when hours were spent under shaded sidewalk cafes and cellphones could not distract from the nature's beauty. Built in 1929, the resort has remained a picturesque retreat hailed as an artists’ colony. The three-story building features 20 rooms, and quaint details like a classic brick courtyard, tiered fountains, and flower boxes hanging from windows.... Read More
Cancun has some of the world's most beautiful beaches, and of course at certain times of year, some of the busiest. While its reputation conjures up images of spring breakers on a partying spree, there are definitely ways to enjoy Cancun's natural beauty and considerable attractions without encountering a single Jell-O shot.... Read More
In Mexico City, which edges out New York in the list of the world’s largest cities, there are a plethora of hotel options. Two in particular stand out for offering elevated experiences to savvy travelers out on business or pleasure. The Four Seasons Hotel Mexico, D.F. is the property of choice for successful professionals looking for an elegant environment in which to spend their downtime or conduct meetings. Meanwhile, W Mexico City brings the hip, signature brand to town with a dash of local flair. Both also offer dining and entertainment options that are in themselves destinations for style-conscious city dwell... Read More
Beverly Hills, the epicenter of glamour and luxury on the west coast, is home to Montage Beverly Hills—a hotel exemplifying the same opulence and attention to detail that the city is known for. Its location—filled with frequent Hollywood high-society sightings, and just two blocks from Rodeo Drive’s chic shops—helps create an undeniable allure. As one of three Montage Hotels and Resorts properties, the Montage Beverly Hills is a distinct haven of "comfortable luxury." Here are a few of my favorite finds during a recent stay:... Read More
Distinctively different, Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is an urban-waterfront resort in the heart of San Diego that begs to be noticed. This full-service resort earned itself a 2012 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award due to its stunning views, delicious dining options, and lavish accommodations.... Read More
The iconic JW Marriott Essex House New York has been serving patrons since 1931 in its Central Park location. Throughout the years, it has continued to provide exceptional experiences and uncompromised service its discerning guests. Located only minutes away from some of New York's best attractions, the Essex House has become a favorite base for exploring the city. Guests can easily visit The Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Columbus Circle, and Theater District, or do some world-class shopping along 5th Avenue.... Read More
It’s a tale of two sisters—both entrepreneurs and Caribbean girls. Cayman Islands natives with worldly backgrounds and an innate sense for hospitality, Heather Lockington and her sister turned a chunk of beachfront land on Grand Cayman into a lovely and serene luxury villa getaway. It’s sophisticated enough to satisfy the jaded “Please-I’ve-seen-everything-in-the-Caymans” crowd and comfortable enough to make guests feel right at home—whether they’re a honeymooning couple or a family with small children.... Read More
Along the charming streets of Panama City, in the heart of town sits Le Méridien Panama, where refined sophistication meets striking style. Nearby, nightlife thrives and the beautiful Pacific Ocean waters mesmerize. The hotel's awe-inspiring design features a double high ceiling lobby with an overturned glass pyramid, black granite and golden accents, and a 46-foot-high atrium.... Read More
It’s been awhile since Waikiki’s heyday as a port-of-call for the rich and famous looking for some R&R upon Hawaii’s sunny shores. Despite a temporary downtick in high-end tourism in the past few decades, Waikiki (and all of Oahu) has recently experienced a renaissance thanks to an influx of new luxury hotels, international fashion brands setting up shop, a reinvigorated food and dining scene, and reinvestment in the island’s natural and cultural treasures that have all begun to attract jetsetters back to the well-trod sands of Waikiki.... Read More
Where you were once only allowed one phone call, a bologna sandwich and a rock hard bunk bed, you’re now pampered with concierge service, decadent dishes, and the coziest of accommodations. Gone are the dark days of detaining criminals, as today these former prisons are hosting travelers from around the world in their new life as luxury hotels. Some may downplay their past, while others proudly show off their rich history, but all are still looking for ways to keep their guests from escaping.... Read More
“America’s Finest City” is also home to one of the finest hotels in California, Hotel del Coronado, where locals, travelers and celebrities have found a true SoCal gem within its walls. As a San Diego staple, the property has been serving the city since 1888 and continues to provide the utmost in service and accommodations. Celebrate its 125th birthday in 2013 with a stay at The Del during your next San Diego getaway.... Read More
Carnival of Venice began small, as a series of celebrations in San Marco Square for a victory against Ulrico, the Patriarch of Aquileia, in 1162. Though the tradition died down a bit during the 18th century, it came back in a big way in 1979 when the Italian government decided to once again showcase the country's historical efforts and rich culture. This year, it starts on January 26 and ends on Mardi Gras, February 12, welcoming over three million tourists and locals to parade around in elaborate, themed costumes into all hours of the night. Tickets to the masquerade balls and hotel rooms tend to sell out during this magical time, so we offered up our picks for the best luxury hotels in Venice to st... Read More
Known as ‘the grand old lady of the square,’ the elegant, old world charm of the Meyrick Hotel is a perfect passport into Ireland’s western city of Galway and the wild beauty of the Connemara region beyond. Located in the central, stately Eyre Square which celebrates its 300th anniversary this year, the luxury hotel offers visitors a convenient location from which to walk leisurely through what is one of the most attractive downtown areas in Ireland.
The hotel has a narrow off-road space in front where new arrivals can park and unload baggage, while regular parking is taken care of by valet, the lot being an easy, few hundred-yard walk around the corner.... Read More
Known for its effortlessly hip hotels and even hotter locations, W Hotels continues to impress with its Fort Lauderdale property. Only four years old, W Fort Lauderdale has quickly become one of the most popular destinations in South Florida. A playground for fun and modern luxury, this world-class resort offers gourmet cuisines, exquisite shopping, and picture perfect beaches.... Read More
Try as I might, it’s hard to imagine a more tranquil retreat than Ballynahinch Castle, tucked away among the hills, rocks, turf bogs, rivers, lakes and forest glades of central Connemara in western Ireland. Reached after an hour or so journey from Galway city, this 14th-century castle lies snug off the road behind wrought-iron black and gold gates, past several impressive chalk-white buildings and along a narrow driveway, bordered by boulders, that winds its way past a stone bridge and pleasant copses.... Read More
2012 has been a big year for luxury hotel openings. All across the United States, the hottest cities have given rise to stunning and unique places for business and leisure travelers to rest their heads. From the gargantuan Hilton Conrad in New York City to the historical Inn at the Presidio in San Francisco, the past year has provided even more diverse and sophisticated options for discerning travelers worldwide.... Read More
What began as a small family bed and breakfast operation in 1972 has now turned into not one, not two, but three hotels in and around the pretty coastal town of Westport in County Mayo, Ireland. All built by members of the Doran clan, the four-star, 87-room Westport Plaza is one of the three, located as it is in the downtown area of this once bustling port, now a thriving tourism center, a short 10-minute drive from the blustery Atlantic Ocean.... Read More
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