A Luxury Travel Blog

When it comes to truly dramatic landscapes, unhinged wilderness experiences and exploration through stunningly remote scenery, Patagonia trumps the lot. From the jagged peaks of Torres del Paine to the beautiful Tierra del Fuego National Park, travelling to South America’s final frontier is a must for any intrepid traveller wanting to experience the ultimate ‘great outdoors’.

El Chalten and Torres del Paine

Patagonia is a trekker’s paradise. Full stop.  On the boarder of Chile and Argentina lies the town of El Chalten, surrounded by the imposing granite peaks of Cerro Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre this is an area of overwhelmingly stunning scenery – perfect for strapping on the hiking boots and soaking it all up. Just over the border, 2800m above the Patagonian Steppe, Torres del Paine National Park dominates the landscape. Fear not though, here it’s not all about climbing huge peaks, there are miles and miles of trails through pristine emerald forests to trek through, crystal clear lakes to navigate and huge blue glaciers to marvel at.

Peninsula Valdes

Marine wildlife experiences in Patagonia are some of the best on the planet and Peninsula Valdes is undoubtedly this regions Mecca. Here, whales can be seen all year round along the coastline, Elephant Seals line the beaches and incredible Orcas can be seen hunting in the surf – a breathtaking experience.  True wildlife explorers can rest their head at Estancia Rincon Chico, a traditional estancia owned by the fifth generation of the same family who are dedicated to the conservation and observation of the incredible wildlife in Peninsula Valdes.

Lake District and Cape Horn

Slightly further to the North is Argentina’s Lake District. An incredible region for avid anglers, keen horse riders and even skiers during the winter months. Hole up in Bariloche, the regions mountain town located on Lake Nahuel Huapi, where there a number of stunning luxury spa hotels to rest your aching bones after a long day exploring.  Llao Llao is a top pick for its sublime position, nestled between the snow capped mountains and the shimmering lake.  From here you can sail across the picture perfect glacial lakes, take a trip to Cape Horn or simply immerse yourself in the unique surroundings of this truly unique South American destination.

Alexandra Matts is a Director at Exsus.

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The beauty of a Cape Town holiday is the variety of things to see and do whilst you are there. The most trouble you will have is in deciding what to do in the time you have available!  I’ve seen many changes, but the loveliest thing is revisiting favourite haunts that are still top of the pile because they’ve stood the test of time.  Here, then, are some of my best things to do in Cape Town that are guaranteed to have you returning once more to top up the magic.

The V&A Waterfront

If your time in Cape Town is short, perhaps you have come in on one of the many cruise ships, then the Waterfront is for you! Rising from down-at-heel working docks, the Waterfront is an amazing blend of cultures and style, sophisticated yet laid-back with something for everyone young or old.

The restaurants and cafes serve a myriad of different tastes from fish & chips to haute cuisine, many of them spilling out of the buildings onto the sidewalks where you can sit beneath the sun brollies watching the world go by.

It’s not just restaurants and shops that make up the Waterfront, but luxury accommodation, leisure activities and a host of exciting possibilities; travel to Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned; plan a helicopter ride over the city; take a sunset cruise along the coast to watch the magnificent setting sun. Or simply stay in the supreme luxury of The One & Only or Cape Grace hotels, where your every wish is granted, and relax in the spa.

Winelands Tour

One of the most surprising things about Cape Town is how quickly you can be in the countryside. It is as if the city is tolerated by the land from which it grew; the city only there to entice visitors to explore the fresh air and vibrancy on its doorstep.

And what treasure to explore! The historic wine estates of Constantia lie on the slopes of Table Mountain itself, in the Southern Suburbs, only minutes from the city centre. Like a secret rural idyll, Constantia provides the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle.

With its own wine route encompassing 7 estates you are sure to find the perfect wine, as Constantia Valley produces world renowned dry whites and reds creating elegant wines that reflect the gentle climate.

A wine tasting tour is a must to experience the friendly hospitality, quality wines and spectacular scenery; and to view a small part of the kaleidoscope that makes up this fascinating city at the foot of Africa.

Panama Jacks

As one of the most unusual settings, Panama Jacks must take an award. Having started life as a boatyard close to the Royal Cape Yacht Club in pre Waterfront days, the restaurant is situated in the commercial dockside in a long, low, wooden shack.

At first glance your heart sinks. It appears the building has been washed ashore having floated from the Caribbean. This is not a place visitors get to unless directed by more knowledgeable people, so you pluck up courage and walk through the door.

What greets you is indeed relaxed, yet no compromise on quality. The freshest of fish served, some of it from huge glass tanks where you chose your own lobster or abalone, compliments the large selection of wines from around the world – the whole combining to create one of the best restaurant experiences in Cape Town.

Whatever you choose to do when you are in Cape Town, you are sure to have an experience that will leave you with only happy memories and a longing to return.

James Woolley is owner of Come To Cape Town.

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Looking for a great ski holiday this year? One that can allow hardcore skiers to indulge in scenic terrain from wide open bowls to gladed trails, while non- or sometime skiers have plenty of other activities to enjoy? Bolzano, in the heart of the Dolomite mountains of Italy, is the perfect spot for you. Located within a 2 hour or so drive from Venice to the south, and Austria and Germany to the north, with its own small airport, it is an easy destination to get to. It’s ideal location in the heart of the magnificent Dolomite mountains make it a perfect base for ski holiday. Here are 5 reasons to Ski Bolzano, especially for mixed groups:

1. World-Class Winter Sports

For your daily ski or snowboard fix, there are 42 ski areas within an hour drive of Bolzano, including Val Gardena, Selva -Sella Ronda and Meran. Another 35 are within 1.5 hours, including ski areas in Austria like Innsbruck. Area passes are available which allow you to choose a different ski area each day; a local guide do the driving and can help you select the best resort destination of the day, based on the weather conditions and snowfall patterns for that year. Enjoy groomed skiing one day, glacier skiing another, and an introduction to backcountry yet another.

2. Apres Ski

Returning to Bolzano in the evenings, you have a wide choice of apres ski activities and restaurants. It is the shopping destination of the region, with porticoed shopping areas providing protection from the weather. You will find many local handicrafts available, as well as the latest in fashion. Wonderful restaurants, from very traditional establishments to more modern tables offer dining options for all tastes.

3. Cultural Exhibits

The city itself offers a wide range of cultural activities and museums to visit to keep you busy on a rest day. From Otzi the Iceman at the South Tyrol Museaum of Archaeology, to a medieval castle at Castel Runkelstein, there is something for everyone. For true mountaineers, a visit to one of the locales of the Messner Mountain Museum is a must-see. A museum project started by Italian mountaineer and extreme climber Reinhold Messner, this is perfect for the hard-core extreme outdoors members of the group.

4. Day Excursions

For those non-skiers, or anyone who has earned a well-deserved rest day, many excursions to various nearby cities are possible. Visit Juliet’s balcony and the ancient Arena in Verona, the Duomo and the museum and frescoes in the Castello del Buonconsiglio of Trento, or the Old Town of Innsbruck. A local guide can set you up with a private tour of these cities to make the best use of your time.

5. Wine

Throughout the Adige valley, vineyards cling to the sides of the mountains, where they experience cool breezes from the Alps to the north intermixing with warm, drying air from Lake Garda to the south. The result of this interplay of air produces some of the most well-structured, aromatic whites in the world, as well as some powerful reds. Some not to be missed: Terlaner, a white blend from vineyards just northwest of Bolzano, Schiava or Vernatsch, a lighter bodied red that pairs perfectly with the local smoked meats, Lagrein, a more full-bodied, nicely tannic big red, with the Muri-Gries monastary in Bolzano worth a tasting stop, as they specialize in this varietal.

The region of Alto Adige has long been a destination for outdoor lovers, but for those discerning snowsport enthusiasts who insist upon great food and wine to close each ski day, Alto Adige boasts more Michelin star restaurants than any other region in Italy. And to quote David Lynch and Joseph Bastianich in their guide to the regional wines of Italy, Vino Italiano, “For those who love both the outdoors and wines, Trentino-Alto Adige is hard to beat”. Great food and wine in the heart of the Dolomites, surrounded by countless ski resorts – a combination hard to beat!

Kathy Bechtel is Owner of Italiaoutdoors.

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This November saw the unveiling of a new eco jungle-lodge in Peru’s Tambopata National Reserve. Hacienda Concepcion is the second property under the byInkaterra name, the sister brand to pioneering Peruvian ecotourism company Inkaterra Hotels. byInkaterra launched in 2010 to offer travellers to Peru a more immersive, guesthouse-style experience of the country, without compromising on the renowned quality of Inkaterra’s signature expert guiding or authentic Peruvian hospitality. The first lodge, El MaPi, a 48-room, contemporary designed hotel in Machu Picchu Pueblo, opened last summer.

New lodge Hacienda Concepcion, located downriver from Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica, boasts a guesthouse-style central lodge constructed of natural materials with 8 double rooms, a spacious bar and restaurant and views into the surrounding jungle. Evenings are punctuated by the sounds of the rainforest, with trails around the lodge illuminated by oil lanterns and candles. One of the first guests through the door was Mick Jagger, who booked the entire complex for his family on his recent tour of the country. Guests at Hacienda Concepcion can enjoy authentic Peruvian dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients and complimentary Pisco Sour cocktails at sundown. A shady pathway through rubber and cocoa trees leads to 7 individual cabanas built in the local tribal style set around a natural lake which attracts colourful exotic birds and many reptiles. IN line with Inkaterra’s reputation for conservation and investment in the local natural economy, the lodge is 100% carbon neutral and guests can undertake numerous discovery excursions into the rainforest to observe fauna, wildlife and indulge in twilight walks to spot fireflies, tarantulas, snakes and bushbabies, amongst others. There are also canoe trips down the nearby Madre de Dios river to track caiman and capybara as well as visits to the original Fitzcarrald shipwreck which inspired film director Werner Herzog’s award-winning movie “Fitzcarraldo”.

A 3 day/2 night package starts from $280 per person sharing a double room. Rate is on a full-board basis and includes round trip transportation by land and river, excursions to the canopy walkway, Inkaterra butterfly house and a trip to Lake Sandoval.

We’d been deterred from hiring a car in Mauritius by horror stories about unsafe roads, lack of signposting and a proliferation of incompetent drivers but fear not – this is no worse than the average overseas destination and better than most as they drive on the civilised left!

Hire a car

My recommendation is to hire from around 1-2pm, this makes sense for several reasons: 2 days car hire suddenly becomes 3 as you get a full afternoon and evening, a full morning and a full day, there were several places to visit close-by so the 2 half days made perfect sense.

Before you start – Sugar Experience

Our number one tip before going anywhere else at all is to visit L’Aventure du Sucre in the North West situated very close to Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens so it makes a great twin trip. You may not be inspired by an extinct sugar mill but this was one of our biggest surprises; the whole museum is incredibly well presented and interesting but more importantly it gave us an insight into the fascinating history of the island and it’s people through slavery and mass immigration. Being equipped with this knowledge enabled us to make much more sense of places, landscapes of course the Mauritian people.

Pamplemousses / Grand Baie

Pamplemousses Gardens is well worth the very cheap entrance fee and guide if you want one; one thing to consider however is the seasons, in September / October there isn’t much in the way of colour but the trees and other vegetation still make it a worthwhile trip. To us one of the most charming qualities of Mauritius is the scents, especially frangipane which gives the visit another dimension and although we enjoyed the island in their winter we did miss those intoxicating smells and colours of summer. Further north on the coast is Grand Baie, it is lively and has some good shops boutiques selling mainly clothes and bags, there are some good little bars and restaurants so plan on breaking here for lunch if you can. You will also find Arsenal in this area which is a small town dedicated to outlet stores, Triolet is a larger un-touristic place sprawling along the main road with every type of local store you can imagine, quick tour of the supermarket will demonstrate that goods and prices are very similar to home.

Chamarel Falls / Seven Coloured Earth

Detour 1 Tamarind Falls
We did head out to the traditional tourist attractions however in all cases the journey was just as interesting as the final destination and invariably we found more to see en route; if you see a sign for Tamarind Falls then take it and look out for ‘Jessie’ who will take you on a very interesting and informative trek.

Detour 2 Mangal Mahadev
Unexpectedly, although not lost, we found ourselves on a road which I can only describe as disconcertingly similar to the driveway approach to Alton Towers Theme Park once you leave the country lane, (apologies to anyone not familiar with this), then appearing in the distance, directly in the middle of the road, is one enormous 108ft tall sacred Hindu Statue called Mangal Mahadev, worth a stop and a look around for sure.

Seven Coloured Earth / Chamarel Falls / South and West

The countryside around the south both inland and on the coast varies noticeably from the north; it is hillier and appears more affluent, the roads are probably slightly better too. Traffic was light on the climb up to Chamarel with high trees lining much of the ascent – this made the view all the more dramatic when passing a clearing. Be careful not to miss the entrance to Chamarel Park as it’s easy to do; you pay a small fee and follow the path to the falls then further on to the Seven Coloured Earth. The waterfall is – well a waterfall, it’s pretty with lush vegetation all around but a few minutes here are all you’d need. Driving on you get to a small car park with a pathway down to the coloured earth; I’m not too sure what I was expecting or how expansive I thought it would be and I still can’t tell you now if I was underwhelmed or not, it is at a guess, the size of a football pitch but not oblong, and the colours are definitely different (this is caused by volcanic activity), it was however well worth a visit and I’m glad I took the drive this way for everything else I came across too.

So do be inspired to set out to discover Mauritius and I’m sure you’ll find your own unspoilt favourite, mine was the north east with its small villages, towns and markets and narrow lanes with curious dead-ends!

And finally if you really don’t want to drive then look at hiring a driver – we were quoted just over £30 on top of our hire charge per day.

Carole Booth is Commercial Director at Destinology.

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Africa is a wonderful holiday destination for families and a great way for children to see animals of all kinds in beautiful natural environments.  On a safari you and your family will be taken to the very heart of Africa, staying at the most luxurious camps and lodges.  On your activities you will be accompanied by highly experienced guides who will take you on the most amazing adventures – entertaining your kids whilst teaching them all about the animals, birds and plants that inhabit the area.

African safaris are best suited for children age 5 and up.  Each one is specially designed to suit each family’s interests and preferences and the camps will happily accommodate special dietary requirements.  Your safari experience will be very private and you will be kept well away from the crowds and minibuses that you see in the busier reserves that cater for cheaper package tours.  Africa is a year round safari destination and there are always good game viewing opportunities – whether you are visiting over Christmas, Easter, the summer holiday or one of the half term breaks.

South Africa and Kenya are the obvious family safari destinations but Botswana, Tanzania and Zambia also offer some excellent family accommodation.  South Africa is popular because it offers malaria free safaris and Kenya is popular for its easy access from the UK and Europe as well as its wonderful variety of activities and cultural interaction. A Botswana safari and a Zambia safari are well suited for active families with teenagers who enjoy traditional game viewing activities like walking safaris and game drives.

A luxury family safari in Africa combines well with a Robinson Crusoe style beach holiday in Mozambique, Mauritius or Zanzibar where the whole family can enjoy a variety of water sports.  If you are planning a malaria free South Africa safari, then you should definitely spend a few days in Cape Town – exploring the city and the Cape Winelands.

A few family safari camps and lodges:

Lagoon Camp

Lagoon Camp lies on the banks of a permanent lagoon formed by the Kwando River.  The camp consists of 6 tents and is the perfect place for families who are very into wildlife.  The activities are focussed on the game viewing experience and include canoeing safaris, boating safaris, walking safaris and traditional game drives as well as tiger fishing – a popular activity for boys of all ages.

Chitabe Lediba

Chitabe Lediba is situated in the Chitabe Concession, neighbouring the Moremi Game Reserve.  It is just south f the Okavango Delta and features a seasonal landscape that changes from brown scrub in the dry season to a lush green oasis in the wet season.  Chitabe is a small camp that consists of five tented suites that have been built on raised teak platforms.  Some of the tents are inter leading – making it a great choice for family groups.  The wildlife is prolific and activities include walking safaris, game drives and sleep outs in the hides.

Sabuk Lodge

Sabuk Lodge is situated in the northern frontier district and is perched on a cliff that overlooks the Ewaso River.  The camp has far reaching views over the Laikipia plains and offers the very best in family accommodation.  Activities are adventurous and include camel safaris, walking safaris, game drives, bush craft, fire lighting, animal tracking and cultural interaction with the Samburu guides who will teach your kids about their traditional way of life.

Vamizi Island Lodge

Vamizi Island Lodge is a Robinson Crusoe style beach lodge on the northern coast of Mozambique.  It offers private accommodation that is surrounded by miles and miles of white powdery sand and crystal clear and warm Indian Ocean waters.  Activities include scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing, kayaking, game walks and picnic to the neighbouring islands.

Impodimo

Impodimo is situated in the malaria free Madikwe reserve. At Impodimo, staff go out of their way to welcome children of all ages.  All children are given a good y bag on arrival and activities are designed to be fun and informative.  They include bush baking, bush crafts, animal tracking, paper mask making, swimming and guided nature walks around the camp.  Impodimo also offers a baby sitting service so parents can enjoy a much needed rest.

Kiba Point

Kiba Point is a beautiful Tanzania safari lodge situated in the Northern Selous.  It offers one of the best family safari experiences in Tanzania and is suited for children of all ages.  The camp has been built in a lovely quiet spot on the banks of the Rufiji River and consists of four spacious and well appointed cottages with private plunge pools.  You will also have a private vehicle and guide who will accompany you on all your bush activities.  Activities include game drives, walking safaris, boating safaris and fishing.

Cape Grace

Although the Cape Grace is not a safari camp it has great family accommodation choices and is worth a stay if you are visiting Cape Town.  The Cape Grace is situated on the bustling Victoria and Alfred Waterfront – in the shadow of Table Mountain.  The accommodation is spacious and very luxurious and it is the ideal base from which to explore the city.  The hotel is very welcoming to families and even offers a baby sitting service.  Children are given a welcome pack on arrival and are invited to enjoy bedtime stories in the library every evening.  The hotel also has a luxury yacht that is available for exclusive use.

Rebecca Sparrow is Marketing Manager at Safari.co.uk.

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From the Monte Carlo casino to the five-star hotels on the Croisette, when it comes to luxury, the French Riviera has a lot to offer. Over 10 million tourists visit the Côte d’Azur for a holiday in the sun every year, but very few are lucky enough to experience the grandiose lifestyle that makes it so desirable. Here are five tips that will ensure you make the most of your luxury holiday in the South of France.

Timing is everything

There is one month in the year when everyone on the Riviera steps up their game to welcome the world’s glitterati—May. The Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix are two of the most globally publicised events, making the area the place to be for a couple of weeks. The best restaurants and nightlife venues migrate to short-term locations on the coast, giving visitors the opportunity to taste food prepared by top chefs and dance to mixes by hot DJs. Heaven’s Floor in Cannes and Amber Lounge in Monaco are among the most select clubs, and Alain Ducasse’s Electrolux Agora pop-up restaurant created a huge buzz last year.

Location, location, location

Although quite small, the Côte d’Azur offers a lot of variety when it comes to choosing where to stay, and there is a location for every type of holiday you can wish for. If you enjoy 24-hour activity and don’t feel like driving too much, book a hotel or a penthouse apartment on the Croisette in Cannes, or on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Both the Carlton and the Negresco are registered historic monuments due to their beautiful architecture, and the Palais de la Méditerranée offers a terrace with a great sea view. All three hotels also have a selection of restaurants and bars accessible to the public. If what you’re looking for is a quiet haven away from the crowds, look along the cliff roads between Nice and Monaco. The area is home to some of the prettiest towns, including Villefranche, St Jean Cap Ferrat, Beaulieu and Eze, all full of sumptuous villas, more intimate than a hotel yet close to the beaches and other amenities. And for a real feel of Provence, go further inland; Grasse and its surroundings offer a choice of authentic village houses that will give you a taste of the history and traditions that made the Riviera what it is today.

Maximise the private beach experience

Beaches on the Côte d’Azur can get very crowded, so sometimes there is no better satisfaction than having one all to yourself for a day. A few restaurants in the Cannes area allow you to book private events for special occasions. La Guérite, on the Lérins Islands, offers a shuttle boat service to and from Cannes, and can take care of the whole organisation of your party, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the peacefulness of the islands with a panoramic view of Cannes.

See it from above

Spoiling yourself with a helicopter tour over the French Riviera is something you will never regret. From the azure of the Mediterranean to the majestic peaks of the Alps, the view is absolutely breathtaking. Various providers advertise transfers from Nice to St Tropez in less than half an hour, probably the most worthwhile trip as it would take you over the Esterel Mountains, its pine trees and red rocks— the natural jewel of the Riviera.

You ought to rent a yacht

There is a reason the area between Antibes and Juan les Pins is called Baie des Milliardaires (Billionaires’ Bay). The most luxurious way to enjoy the French Riviera is from the water. There you can appreciate the weather, the sea and the view, all from the quiet intimacy of your boat. To rent a yacht, you will need your passport and a deposit of about 50% of the total amount. There are a variety of sizes and charter durations available but Alexander J. Coles, senior charter broker at Moody Yachts France, recommends booking as far in advance as possible, as most summer charters are booked four to five months ahead. Taking the time to make your selection in advance will prove worth it, because with the perfect yacht, your trip will take on a completely different dimension.

Melodie Michel is Marketing Manager at Riviera Rental Guide.

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Badrutt’s Palace Hotel will be transformed into a rococo palace this New Year’s Eve, 31st December 2011. Bejewelled and sparkling, and decorated with the theme of “Le Reve du Palace”, the hotel will be thronging with New Year’s guests from around the world – many of whom book a year in advance to celebrate on this special night. As well as live bands, artists dressed in costumes wander the Palace to represent the night’s theme.  Dinner is served in the hotel itself and in the rustic Chesa Veglia, a traditional farmhouse built in 1658, where guests can choose between three restaurants.

Also, the 19th St Moritz Gourmet Festival, taking place 30th January to 3rd February 2012, is always a high point at Badrutt’s Palace. For a week, ten Michelen-starred chefs descend on St Moritz to wow guests with a cornucopia of culinary events. French Chef Regis Marcon, who owns Régis et Jaques Marcon in Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid in France, will dazzle guests with a five-course menu or an à la carte dinner in Le Restaurant.

Finally, Badrutt’s Palace will also play host to the Funky Kitchen Party, which kicks off at 10.30pm on 1st February 2012, in the Palace kitchen and in Le Bistro. Guests mingle around steaming saucepans and sizzling frying pans, savouring each dish as it is prepared – accompanied by an appropriate champagne, wine or spirit – while chefs do their magic and prepare exquisite dishes all evening long.

It was the huge Jacuzzi tub that captivated me. Everything else about this completely fabulous suite at the Red Coach Inn in Niagara Falls was overwhelmingly wonderful, but after a long day of travel, envisioning that luxuriant Jacuzzi tub filled with hot water and bubbles absolutely made my day.

After a friendly welcome at the front desk, we were shown to our room and helped with our luggage. To our surprise, we headed not up the stairs but out the front door and down the brick sidewalk to another entrance.  Our key – an actual, real key and not a key card – opened the front door, we went up a few steps and the key also opened that door. The door with a brass plaque that said “Sheffield Suite”. When we stepped in, I honestly thought we were in a foyer that would open up to several different rooms but no. This foyer was part of our suite.

A beautifully decorated area with burgundy carpet, it had doors leading to a bathroom and to our bedroom. The French doors to the bathroom were opened with flourish and he stepped back to let us get the full effect of. Oh, yes. The Jacuzzi tub. The huge expanse of the room amazed us and it took a minute for us to see it. And seriously? Seriously? Is that a chandelier? Why, yes. Yes it it is.

We thought we had seen the ultimate expanse in this ultimate suite, but the bedroom came a very close second. Also a huge room, it had gorgeous furniture including a comfy king-size bed and a nice desk, a gas fireplace and a little kitchen area with a fridge, microwave, coffeemaker and toaster. You could easily make your own breakfast here but why would you? A full breakfast is included.

There was a telephone with voicemail and free long distance anywhere in the United States, a Bose stereo, a television, free wireless Internet (which we love), plush terrycloth robes, hair dryer, and Gilchrist and Soames amenities from England. Our guide opened the fridge to show us a lovely cheese plate, bottled water and champagne. We also had chocolates and a lovely welcoming letter waiting for us.

The next morning, one of us was sorely tempted to take another bubble bath and get back in bed with cheese, chocolates, a fireplace and a good book but the other one actually wanted to leave the room. Can you imagine?

It’s a good thing my husband routed me out of bed because the wonderful, hot breakfast which is included with your room, was quite divine. The restaurant is a very nice place to relax and enjoy a meal. They have a wood fireplace in a beautiful natural stone fireplace and, in the summer,  the patio would be a wonderful place to eat. You can actually see and hear the rapids which lead to the falls from the patio. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served seven days a week but we only had time for breakfast, which is a shame based on the menu you can see here.

The first morning, I had some delicious oatmeal which had chunks of fresh apples and raising mixed in. I added brown sugar and milk and wasn’t hungry for hours.

When the Red Coach Inn opened in 1923, Niagara Falls was the honeymoon capital of the world and honeymooners were thrilled to have such a wonderful place to stay. The Inn was built built in the architectural style of the old English Tudor period and was named for General LaFayette’s famous red carriage and is actually considered a bed and breakfast Hotel, which is why they include the wonderful breakfasts.

We loved that the Inn is located right across the  street from the Upper Rapids of Niagara Falls and one of the first things we did was walk over there and stroll around the area.

I’m not mentioning any names.

But it was pretty darn wonderful.

Jan Ross runs Wanderlust Wonder.

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During your Sydney vacation you deserve luxury treatment and there is no shortage of luxury accommodations available to treat like you like a queen or a king. Read on for our guide to the best of the best in the land Down Under, including hotels and private rentals.

Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay

This newly remodeled and refurbished hotel provides stunning views of the Sydney Harbor and the Sydney Opera House. It is in the heart of the main shopping district, making it a perfect location for those who plan to shop the days away. At the end of a whirlwind day, take advantage of the hotel’s day spa and indoor pool. This 5 star hotel is located at 30 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, and has rooms starting at only $309 AUD or $312 USD.

BLUE Sydney

Those who appreciate a modern touch will definitely feel at home in the stylish and contemporary BLUE Sydney. Housed on the Sydney Harbour at The Wharf at Wooloomooloo, this 5 star luxury boutique is next to the Royal Botanical Gardens. BLUE Sydney is located at 6 Cowper Wharf Road, Sydney, NSW 2011, and rooms start at only $299 AUD or $302 USD.

Inhouse Potts Point

If your idea of luxury includes getting away from hotels, then you should definitely considering renting an apartment, such as the one at Inhouse Potts Point. Enjoy all of the comforts of home, such as being able to make your own meals in a full kitchen, while still being surrounded by opulence. Voted by The Guardian (UK) as one of the ‘Top 10 Best Holiday Apartments outside Europe.’ Located in Potts Point, a mere 5 minutes from Sydney Harbor, the In-house has rates starting at only $295 AUD or $300 USD. Call +61 406 316 609 to make a reservation.

The Westin Sydney

The Westin Sydney was recently picked by Travel + Leisure as their number 1 hotel in Sydney and with good reason; the location, the view and the rooms are all breathtaking. This 5 star hotel features a wide array of conference rooms and a ballroom that can hold up to 1,200 people. If you’re looking to be in the middle of the most dynamic part of Sydney, then the Westin is an excellent choice. Located at 1 Martin Place, Sydney, 2000, and has rooms starting at only $220 AUD or $222 USD.

Sheraton on the Park

Directly opposite Hyde Park, Sheraton on the Park occupies an elegant and beautiful area of Sydney that is unmatched by competitor hotels. Guests of this 5 star facility will enjoy the spa, pool and health club, along with the mixture of contemporary and classical adornments throughout the hotel. Conveniently located at 161 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, 2000, near several major attractions, and has rooms starting at only $380 AUD or $384 USD.

Richard Greenwood is the Marketing Director at Flight Centre Australia.

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Maldives

Much has been said about the beauty of the Maldives and it’s true that by air, the islands offer a truly dramatic sight, so if you can, choose a seaplane transfer to get the most impressive views. An underwater camera is also recommended as you really shouldn’t pass up the chance to go snorkelling and discover the coral and marine life indigenous to these islands.  Finally, remember that diverse shopping and fast paced nightlife is not really what you’ll find in the Maldives. And it will help if you are partial to seafood.

Seychelles

Praslin and Mahe house the bulk of the luxury hotels in the Seychelles, but if you are after even more exclusivity, you could choose a one hotel island like North, Denis, Desroches or Fregate. Photographers will love the slightly more diverse scenery they will find here, with more ‘greenery’ than in the Maldives, and therefore a larger presence of land based wildlife like tropical birds. Of all of the Indian Ocean islands, Seychelles is possibly the most expensive – so it could be worth negotiating a rate for a half board stay to get the best value on your honeymoon.

Dubai

I’d principally recommend Dubai as an ideal twin centre honeymoon destination.  It’s a great ‘doing’ city where diversity is the key, such is the scope of attractions on offer. You could look to stay between 3 -4 nights and combine a stay here with a longer stay at one of the Indian Ocean islands or head even further afield to Thailand or Malaysia. Take in large scale shopping malls and traditional souks between hotel based spa treatments or relaxing on Jumeirah Beach or the Palm. Remember city attractions like Ski Dubai or head out to the desert and ride on the dunes in a 4×4 vehicle.

St Lucia

The Caribbean has to take pride of place in any top 5 honeymoon locations, so I’ve gone with St Lucia, but I could have easily chosen many of the islands here. The beautiful Piton Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for romance. It’s important to note that some hotels on St Lucia feature ‘open’ guest rooms or bathrooms – these are wonderful  if you are seeking authentic luxury but not so great if you can’t stand insects. So this is worth bearing in mind when choosing your hotel.

South Africa

My final entry is something of a wild card. Cape Town (the home of Table Mountain and Camps Bay) needs to be on your itinerary for a few days at least, but after that is where your options really do become a challenge. Find the accessible Winelands where you can enjoy tours and tasting, or witness the thrill of the chase with lions and elephants on safari at Sabi Sands or Kruger. Bring binoculars! If travelling between May and December you might catch a glimpse of the Southern Right whale migrating from the Antarctic to the Cape Coast in Hermanus, whilst trekking and brown trout fishing are popular near the Drakensberg Mountains.

Carole Booth is Commercial Director at Destinology.

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I recently received a printed copy of Dan Poynter’s Air Travel Handbook – a goldmine of information for the travel enthusiast and, in particular, the frequent flyer. It’s not really the kind of book that needs to be read from cover to cover but instead is easy to dip in and out at any point and learn anything and everything you want to know about air travel.  Its coverage really is extensive, covering everything from packing to making the most of airline frequent flyer programs.  A huge amount of research has gone into compiling the publication, and the book is packed with references to further online sources of information.  For this reason, I would suggest you opt for the eBook rather than the printed edition as you’ll be able to click on the links rather than have to copy them from the book into your browser. The author, Dan Poynter, is clearly a seasoned traveller – he is a licensed pilot himself, travels almost 10,000 kms every week and has completed more than 20 round-the-world itineraries.  That alone should be make him a pretty good authority when it comes to flying!

It’s true; San Diego, California, gets sunshine year round. The perfect weather, relaxed attitudes and having the Pacific Ocean at your doorstep will cure any case of the winter blues. Whether you are planning your destination holiday in hopes for a quiet haven or for party proximity, consider “America’s Finest City” for a taste of what Southern California has to offer — and don’t forget your bikini! Here are three of the most talked about San Diego hotels:

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

A stately resort set overlooking the California coastline, The Lodge at Torrey Pines boasts AAA 5 Diamond rating for ten consecutive years. Torrey Pines Golf Course, site of the 2008 U.S. Open is just a stone’s throw away. Modeled after the Craftsman style architecture of the early 1900s, The Lodge combines the appeal of indoor and outdoor living. Guests are met with expansive spaces, meticulous woodwork and grand craftsmanship evoking another era. Spend mornings hiking through Torrey Pines State Reserve and the afternoon playing croquet. Nearby Downtown La Jolla offers boutiques and art galleries for the visitor’s perusal and by nightfall, finish the evening with both a sunset view of the 18th hole and a fine dining experience at the Lodge’s A.R. Valentien signature restaurant. With an ever-present touch of nature, even The Spa at Torrey Pines offers restorative treatments based around natural marine and botanical based ingredients. Truly a sanctuary for those in search of a quiet and soothing holiday, The Lodge is rustic luxury at its best.

Hotel Del Coronado

The legendary and iconic Hotel Del Coronado on Coronado Island is a quintessential San Diego landmark, blending rich Victorian history into a modern day beachfront resort. Built in 1888, the hotel’s recognizable red turrets, its island setting and white sandy beaches will make for a memorable holiday vacation. Known affectionately to locals as “The Del”, visitors will get to experience the relaxing beach culture San Diegans are privy to. The Del is also ideal for couples and families as it offers plenty of activities such as S’mores on the Beach, bike rentals and a holiday season event, “Skating by the Sea”, where guests can ice skate with views of the Pacific Ocean and Coronado Beach. Wine and dine at 1500 OCEAN, The Del’s award winning restaurant featuring fresh coastal cuisine, or take a stroll into the quaint neighborhood of Coronado, where specialty shops and bistros abound. For a more secluded experience, the hotel offers Beach Village at The Del, luxury private villas and cottages with oceanfront views. Guestroom, suite or villa, The Del has a variety of accommodations and a lively resort atmosphere that is sure to impress even the most discerning traveller this holiday season.

Andaz San Diego

The historic Gaslamp Quarter is home to San Diego’s urban nightlife. Set in the heart of the city, Andaz San Diego is an alluring boutique hotel sure to make nights out on the town even more posh. Guests are met not with check-in counters but a personalized welcome and complimentary beverages while you lounge in the lobby — a sleek architectural design featuring dark wood and plush furniture, elements that are featured throughout the contemporaryhotel. Browse through downtown shops during the day or meander into Seaport Village or Balboa Park. At night, the city comes alive with bustlingrestaurants and bars. The Andaz offers Ivy Wine Bar, which houses 88 vintages ready for a customized tasting experience. At night, lounge with views of the urban skyline at the Ivy Rooftop or dance the night away at the Ivy Nightclub, both are premiere social spots of the San Diego city scene. Keeping holiday festivities at a maximum will be a breeze with an urban escape to the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego.

Celebrate the holidays in SoCal style — with sunshine, the Pacific coastline and friendly people. San Diego is a diverse city with a small town feel; and visitors can experience peace and relaxation, beach culture and city life all in one great escape.

Kelly Stacey is VP of Operations and Director of Sales & Marketing at ViX Swimwear.

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If you’ve been pondering a trip to South America but haven’t yet made the commitment, now is the time. SA Luxury Expeditions is offering a special seasonal discount on all its South America vacation packages. Travellers can save $100 on excursions that cost $1,000 or more, and up to $200 on excursions that cost $2,000 or more. This deal starts on Black Friday, runs through Cyber Monday, and concludes on 30th November 2011. To be eligible for this travel discount, simply send an initial travel request (with mention of this Black Friday discount) via the SA Luxury Expeditions website. Though requests must be sent between the dates of 25th-30th November 2011, the actual date of travel can be anytime during 2012.

If you quite like the idea of winning 7 nights in a luxury vacation rental in Bali, Costa Rica or Italy, plus $3,000 towards airfares, get yourself along to the Flipkey blog where they’re running their own “flippin’ awesome vacation giveaway”.  (FlipKey, in case you’re not already familiar, is a vacation rental website owned by Tripadvisor.)

The winner of the contest, which is open to US residents and runs until 10th January 2012, will stay in the luxury vacation rental of their choice, with up to 10 friends.   The three properties that he or she will get to choose from are Villa Les Rizieres in Bali, Punto de Vista in Costa Rica, and Villa Ferreira in Tuscany, Italy – all three of which are stunning in their own right.

Full terms and conditions of the competition can be found on the FlipKey website. Good luck!

Rovos Rail has earned a reputation for world class rail travel and offer a variety of enticing itineraries that will take you though the heart of the African bush to a time when the journey was just as important as the end destination.

The Pretoria to Cape Town itinerary

These 48 hour journeys are a wonderful addition to a luxury South Africa safari.  Covering a distance of 1600 kilometres, you will see why South Africa is often referred to as the “world in one country”.  You will travel through the golden grasslands of the Highveld, to the starkly beautiful semi desert region of the Great Karoo before trundling through the fertile and lush valleys of the Cape Winelands – finally ending your journey in the vibrant city of Cape Town, nestled beneath the imposing mass of Table Mountain.  Highlights of this trip include a visit to the historical town of Matjiesfontein and a stop at Kimberly to visit the Big Hole.

A luxury Durban rail itinerary

This luxury rail journey between Pretoria and Durban takes place during the summer months and includes game drives in two exclusive private safari reserves.  The journey starts in Pretoria and meanders its way through the grasslands of the Highveld region and the scenically spectacular escarpment between Belfast and Waterval Onder before stopping at Malelane (on the border of the Kruger National Park).  The journey then continues onwards towards Swaziland where you can enjoy an afternoon game drive at Mkhaya Game Reserve.  You will then travel on an overnight journey to the Hluhluwe Game Reserve where you will stop for an amazing safari where you will the endangered white and black rhino and a variety of other species.  The last stretch of the journey takes you into KwaZulu Natal – arriving in Durban in the afternoon.

A great add-on to this luxury rail itinerary is a tour of the Anglo Boer and Anglo Zulu War Battlefields.

Rebecca Sparrow is Marketing Manager at Safari.co.uk.

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