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 day is only 24 hours, doesn’t mean you should run right out and fuel up your private jet without a care in the world tomorrow. 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. ... 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
