A Luxury Travel Blog

Croatia

We’re seeing a real rise in bookings for Croatia, and this must be due in no small part to the emerging presence of impressive design hotels like the dramatic Monte Mulini in Rovinj and the stunning Hotel Bellevue in Dubrovnik. I visited Pula many years ago when it was part of Yugoslavia, and you could see the potential back then. With the charming Miramare Bay, miles of stunning beaches and bays and the azure blue of the Adriatic as your companion, you’ll find Croatia an accessible delight with underrated fishing waters.

Jordan

Jordan’s appeal is historical, mystical and timeless. But the chance to float in the Dead Sea won’t always be available – the sea is evaporating at a rapid rate. Petra however is going nowhere – and its mere presence is a living example of the miracles man can achieve. Carved by the Nabotean people some time in the 6th Century BC, this amazing walled city within a city on the slopes of Mount Hor has to be seen to be believed – and is rightly attributed the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vietnam

Heading East, Vietnam has made giant strides to re-invent its appeal to holiday makers. This is a beautiful country of glorious natural beauty – scenic countryside, quiet beach retreats and rustic towns all with exquisite cuisine and charming locals. To experience the ‘real’ Vietnam you can pick up a bicycle in quieter less commercial resorts like Hoi An and explore on two wheels – the best and easiest way to get around. Don’t forget to take a kayak trip through the Mekong Delta or the mangrove forests of Halong Bay to really connect with the Vietnamese way of life.

Beirut

Who would have thought just a few years ago that Beirut would take pride of place on this list? The town centre of this Lebanese capital city is completely re-built whilst the downtown area still oozes charm with Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman influences highly prevalent. Locals and tourists are passionate about horse racing which is popular on Sundays at the race track (gambling permitted and international currency can be exchanged) and a trip out to Raouche to see the landmark sea moored Pigeon Rocks and sample the cliff side cafes serving international and local cuisine is recommended.

Prague

Holidaymakers are slowly realising that there’s much more to Prague than just a stag do hotspot. In fact, Prague is better suited to cultural breaks– prices are not as cheap as they were 5 years ago, meaning the destination has evolved. The sight of the breathtaking, gothic Charles Bridge is an iconic one, and crossing this over to the Jewish Quarter will unite you with authentic pavement cafes, art displays, cobbled streets and shops with unique character. A trip to the Franz Kafka literature museum just a stone’s throw from the bridge is well worth the experience, whilst another nearby museum catering for more ‘nocturnal’ activities is recommended for those not easily offended!

Carole Booth is Commercial Director at Destinology.

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Tripadvisor has once again published its Travellers’ Choice awards – this time for 2012.   The top 25 hotels in the worldwide luxury category are as follows:

1. Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo – Chiyoda, Japan
2. Hotel Imperial Vienna – Vienna, Austria
3. Hotel Palacio de la Magdalena – Soto del Barco, Spain
4. La Casa del Rector – Almagro, Spain
5. The Grand Del Mar – San Diego, California, USA
6. Antuquelen Hosteria Patagonica – Villa La Angostura, Argentina
7. Ritz-Carlton Osaka – Osaka, Japan
8. The Dorchester – London, United Kingdom
9. Rockliffe Hall – Hurworth-on-Tees, United Kingdom
10. The St. Regis Bali Resort – Nusa Dua, Indonesia
11. The Langham, Melbourne – Melbourne, Australia
12. The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin – Berlin, Germany
13. Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel – Governorate of Muscat, Oman
14. Quinta de San Amaro – Meano, Spain
15. The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt, County Wicklow – Enniskerry, Ireland
16. Ritz-Carlton Tokyo – Minato, Japan
17. Grosvenor House Dubai – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
18. Mandarin Oriental, Munich – Munich, Germany
19. Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa – Prague, Czech Republic
20. Grand America Hotel – Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
21. Elysian Hotel Chicago – Chicago, Illinois, USA
22. Schloss Velden, a Capella Hotel – Velden, Austria
23. Sandy Lane Hotel – Saint James, Barbados
24. Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski – Dresden, Germany
25. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok – Bangkok, Thailand

The United States, Spain, Germany and Japan are the most represented nations on the list, each with three hotels included.  Ritz-Carlton lead the way among the hotel brands with five hotels appearing in the list.

Whether you’re an opera addict or a ballet buff, visiting a theatre district can be the perfect way to enrich your city break or holiday. We take a look at some of the world’s cultural nerve centres to find the best destinations for fans of all things theatrical.

Milan

Stylish and refined, this chic city is the perfect destination for cultural
connoisseurs, with its elegant opera houses and theatres. The fashionable Corso Como precinct is a great place to be seen enjoying a pre-performance aperitivo, and if you want to rub shoulders with the cultural elite, La Scala will provide an opulent setting in which to enjoy a bit of Puccini or Verdi. The Milanese are among the best-dressed in Europe, so be sure to wear your finest couture if you want to fit right in.

London

Theatre devotees are spoilt for choice in England’s capital, from blockbuster shows in the vibrant and bustling West End to Elizabethan drama brought to life at The Globe, or charming summer spectacles at the Regent’s Park open-air theatre. Why not take a tour of Theatreland, taking in the impressive Victorian facades while absorbing the history of these cherished playhouses in the heart of central London.

New York

Every theatre aficionado dreams of the bright lights of Broadway, and in reality, New York is unlikely to disappoint. With a dazzling spectrum of shows, from the sparkle and pizzazz of smash-hit musicals to off-broadway plays in intimate venues to underground productions in ramshackle hideaways, there’s a rich selection for all tastes. Restaurant Row provides countless options for pre- and post-show refreshment, or sample the world-class fare at one of Times Square’s many diners.

Moscow

Moscow’s bustling metropolis provides an abundance of enticing options for theatre-buffs, but none more tempting than the Bolshoi ballet. The sumptuous gilt-finished auditorium is the perfect setting for the works of the great Russian composers, with its astounding acoustic clarity and expansive neo-classical interior. The city boasts a wealth of highbrow arts activity, including the Academic Orchestra at the Moscow Conservatory and bohemian experimental performance at the Helikon Opera theatre.

Melbourne

Victoria’s capital has much to offer theatre-wise, from the art deco playhouses of the Theatre District to the progressive cultural nucleus of the Arts Precinct on the Southbank of the Yarra River. The former is home to some of the city’s most beautiful Victorian buildings, whereas the latter is characterised by iconic modern architecture, punctuated with neon tubing, honeycomb mesh and bold designs. Or if you’re looking for something a bit more classical, head to the Royal Botanical Gardens for Shakespeare under the stars during the summer months.

Salzburg

The city of Mozart is bursting with cultural delights, including some of the finest arts festivals in the world. For standard cultural fare, head to the Salzburg County Theatre, but for something out-of-the-ordinary, try the Salzburger Marionettentheater for enchanting puppet performances of opera and Shakespeare or the Kleine Theatre for some cult cabaret.

Tokyo

Tokyo’s performing arts scene is scattered across the capital, but with so many unique theatre traditions, you’ll need plenty of time to experience it all. There’s the tiny fringe theatres hidden among the winding streets of Shimokitazawa, OperaCity in Hatsudai or jazz and comedy at Setagaya-ku’s Carrot Tower. Don’t miss the extravagant beauty of traditional Kabuki theatre, an elaborate and colourful visual feast accompanied by Japanese instruments. The grandest Kabuki theatre, Kabuki-Za, reopens in 2013.

Athens

The birthplace of drama, this lively capital is ideal for anyone interested in classical theatre. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is one of the earliest preserved theatres and it continues to be used as a venue for performance. A spot of Sophocles or Euripides in this stunning setting is an absolute must for arts lovers, but if regional revelry is more your thing, visit the Dora Stratou Garden Theatre for some traditional folk entertainment.

Paris

The City of Lights offers an eclectic mix of theatre from the conventional to the avant-garde. With some of the most iconic theatres in the world — the Opera Bastille, La Comedie-Francaise and even the Moulin Rouge — there’s a wealth of choice that will whet any cultural appetite. The Theatre des Bouffes du Nord is an exquisite gem of a theatre near Gare du Nord station, frequently offering English plays.

Mumbai

Often referred to as the entertainment capital of India, Mumbai is a cosmopolitan blend of contemporary art and culture. The Prithvi Theatre is an intimate venue belonging to one of the most influential Bollywood families, and it’s the perfect place to grab an Irish coffee and scope out the local culturati. For a truly unforgettable experience, head to the Horniman Circle Garden for open-air plays and concerts in English, Gujarati and Marathi.

Simon Hagger is CEO at Show and Stay.

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Simon Pardoe is a director and co-owner of The Healthy Holiday Company, which owns three luxury healthy holiday brands: fitscape, destination yoga and in:spa. Established in 2003, the company is now the UK’s leading provider of healthy holidays with a selection of large private villas and boutique hotels in Italy, Spain, Morocco, France, Greece and India.

What is it that you do exactly?

One of the reasons why I love our business so much is that it involves me in so many different ways, so there’s really no such thing as a typical day. However, my primary role is to develop and expand the business. I look after the negotiation and contracting, so I travel a fair bit. In the office, most days there’s some requirement for discussions with partners or agents; meeting with new or existing members of our team of yoga teachers, chefs, fitness trainers or nutritionists; discussing or planning promotions or marketing initiatives; talking with our staff about ideas for running the business better or making the holiday experience for our guests even more exceptional.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Providing the environment and the expertise for our guests to return from their holidays looking and feeling amazing. It’s fabulous that so many of them write or call us to say what an incredible time they had and how much they’re looking forward to booking their next trip.

What would you say are the 3 best places you’ve ever stayed?

For both summer adventures and winter skiing in the mountains, I would always choose Hotel Rosa Alpina in the Italian Dolomites. It’s a charming family run 40 bedroom Relais & Chateaux hotel with exquisite service, wonderful food and a superb spa. The hiking in the summer is incredible and the 740 miles of piste in the winter makes it an ideal base for a ski trip.

My favourite place in Africa is Tongabezi, an exceptional lodge on the banks of the Zambezi. I first visited Tonabezi 20 years ago and it has slowly evolved to become a truly fabulous 16 bedroom suite lodge with awesome river views. It is on a par with anything anywhere in the world, but for Zambia it’s astonishing. My favourite times to visit are April and October.

For a romantic getaway, you can’t beat Turtle Island in the Yasawas, Fiji. It’s a private island with 14 guest cottages (called bures) and 14 different beaches, pristine azur seas surround it and it feels delightfully remote, yet fabulously luxurious. A Robinson Crusoe environment with first class accommodation and fine dining. It’s where The Blue Lagoon was filmed.

What’s been your most memorable dining experience to date?

A tough question! Probably discovering Gordon Ramsay at his first London restaurant in Chelsea in the early 90s before he became famous and his prices became exorbitant. Most memorable was the starter of green bean cappuccino with truffle oil served in a coffee cup.

Have you rubbed shoulders with the rich and famous, either through your work or your travels?

We have a lot of celebrities and high profile guests on our holidays but, as you would expect, I am not prepared to divulge any secrets!

What currently ranks highest on your travel wish list?

I would love to explore the coastline of Croatia on a yacht with my family. Hopefully next summer!

Thank you for taking part in our interview, Simon.  Sadly I have never been, but I’ve heard lots of good things about Turtle Island.

If you would like to be interviewed on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

Condé Nast Traveler today announced the results of its 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards, ranking the best cities, islands, cruise lines, airlines, hotels, and resorts worldwide. The awards appear in the November issue (on newsstands from 18th October 2011) and are derived from the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice survey. This year, a record 28,876 readers cast a combined eight million votes on thousands of properties and destinations around the world. The list also highlights a few firsts:

· The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong, was named the top hotel in the world.
· Charleston, South Carolina grabs the number one spot in Top Cities in the U.S.
· After only two years since the grand opening, Chicago’s Elysian Hotel is named top hotel in the U.S.
· Despite a tough year for Japan, Kyoto claims title as Asia’s top city for the first time.

Top Cities: United States

1. Charleston, South Carolina
2. San Francisco
3. Santa Fe

Top Cities: Europe

1. Florence
2. Barcelona
3. Rome

Top Cities: Asia

1. Kyoto
2. Bangkok
3. Hong Kong

Top Cities: Africa/Middle East

1. Cape Town
2. Beirut
3. Byblos, Lebanon

Top Cities: Canada

1. Quebec City
2. Vancouver
3. Victoria, British Columbia

Top Cities: Oceania

1. Sydney
2. Queenstown, New Zealand
3. Melbourne

Top Cities: Mexico

1. San Miguel de Allende
2. Oaxaca
3. Mérida

Top Cities: Central/South America

1. Buenos Aires
2. Cuzco
3. Antigua de Guatemala

Top Islands: Caribbean/Atlantic

1. Bermuda
2. St. John
3. Nevis

Top Islands: Oceania

1. Bora Bora
2. Great Barrier Reef
3. Moorea

Top Islands: Asia

1. Maldives
2. Bali
3. Phuket

Top Islands: United States

1. Maui
2. Kauai
3. Kiawah, South Carolina

Top Islands: Europe

1. Bozcaada and the Turkish Aegean Islands
2. Mykonos and the Cyclades
3. Madeira
3. Mallorca and the Balearics

Top Resorts: Asia

1. Ayana Resort & Spa, Bali
2. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
3. Four Seasons, Chiang Mai
3. Oberoi Vanyavilas, Rajasthan

Top Resorts: Mexico

1. One&Only Palmilla, Los Cabos
2. Rancho La Puerta, Tecate
3. The Tides, Riviera Maya

Top Resorts: Africa

1. Four Seasons Sharm El Sheikh
1. Safari Lodges at Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa
3. Kirawira Luxury Tented Camp, Tanzania

Top Resorts: Europe

1. Hotel Caesar Augustus, Capri
2. Perivolas, Santorini
3. Park Hotel Kenmare, County Kerry

Top Resorts: Hawaii

1. Travaasa Hana (formerly Hotel Hana-Maui)
2. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
3. Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk

Top Resorts: Atlantic

1. The Reefs, Bermuda
2. Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos
3. One&Only Ocean Club, Bahamas

Top Resorts: Middle East

1. Burj Al Arab, Dubai
2. Ritz-Carlton, Dubai
3. Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi

Top Resorts: Oceania

1. Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, New Zealand
2. Four Seasons, Bora Bora
3. Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa, French Polynesia

Top Resorts: Mainland U.S.

1. Resort at Pelican Hill, Newport Coast, California
2. Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa at Beaver Creek Mountain, Avon, Colorado
3. Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, South Carolina

Top Small Resorts: Mainland U.S.

1. Keswick Hall at Monticello, Virginia
2. Mii Amo, Sedona
3. Amangani, Jackson Hole

Top Resorts: Canada

1. King Pacific Lodge (Rosewood), British Columbia
2. Emerald Lake Lodge, British Columbia
3. Long Beach Lodge Resort, Vancouver Island

Top Resorts: Caribbean

1. Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, Nevis
2. Jade Mountain, St. Lucia
3. Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia

Top Resorts: Central/South America

1. Four Seasons Resort Carmelo, Uruguay
2. Xandari Resort & Spa, Costa Rica
3. Kanantik Reef & Jungle Resort, Belize

Top Cruise Lines: Small-Ship Lines

1. Seabourn
2. Silversea
3. Windstar

Top Cruise Lines: Medium-Ship Lines

1. Crystal Cruises
2. Regent Seven Seas Cruises
3. Disney

Top Cruise Lines: Large-Ship Lines

1. Celebrity
2. Princess
3. Royal Caribbean

Top Cruise Lines: River Cruises

1. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
2. Grand Circle Travel
3. Viking River Cruises

Top Foreign Airlines

1. Singapore Airlines
2. Virgin Atlantic
3. Emirates

Top U.S. Airlines

1. Virgin America
2. JetBlue Airways
3. Hawaiian Airlines

Top Small Airlines

1. OpenSkies
2. Porter Airlines
3. Air Tahiti Nui

Top Hotels: Southern Europe

1. Hôtel de Paris, Monte Carlo
2. Il San Pietro di Positano, Italy
3. Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Top Hotels: Northern Europe

1. Mandarin Oriental, Prague
2. Beau-Rivage Palace, Lausanne
3. Regent Berlin

Top Small Hotels: Europe

1. Palazzo Sasso, Ravello
2. Château de La Chèvre d’Or, Côte d’Azur
3. Villa San Michele, Fiesole, Tuscany

Top Hotels: Central America

1. Lapa Rios Ecolodge, Costa Rica
2. Casa Santo Domingo, Antigua Guatemala
3. Inn at Robert’s Grove, Belize

Top Hotels: Oceania

1. Observatory Hotel, Sydney
2. Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay
3. The Langham, Auckland
3. Westin Sydney

Top Hotels: British Isles

1. Culloden House, Inverness, Scotland
2. Chewton Glen, Hampshire
3. The Halkin, London

Top Hotels: Caribbean/Atlantic

1. Peninsula House, Dominican Republic
2. The Caves, Jamaica
3. Eden Rock, St. Barts

Top Hotels: Asia

1. Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong
2. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
3. The Peninsula, Tokyo

Top Hotels: Africa

1. Steenberg Hotel, Cape Town
2. The Saxon, Johannesburg
3. Cape Grace, Cape Town

Top Hotels: Canada

1. Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa, Cambridge, Ontario
2. Auberge Saint-Antoine, Quebec City
3. Hôtel Nelligan, Montreal

Top Hotels: Mexico

1. Las Mañanitas, Cuernavaca
2. La Casa Que Canta, Zihuatanejo
3. Casa de Sierra Nevada, San Miguel de Allende

Top Hotels: United States

1. Elysian Hotel, Chicago
2. 21c Museum Hotel, Louisville
3. The Peninsula, Chicago

Top Small Hotels: United States

1. Colonial Houses, Williamsburg, Virginia
2. Fairbanks House, Amelia Island
3. Fearrington House Inn, Pittsboro, North Carolina

Top Hotels: South America

1. Hotel Fasano, São Paolo
2. Alvear Palace Hotel, Buenos Aires
3. Palacio Duhau-Park Hyatt, Buenos Aires

Top Hotels: Middle East

1. Park Hyatt Dubai
2. Al Faisaliah Hotel (Rosewood), Riyadh
3. Four Seasons, Doha

In the past taking a luxury holiday often meant long haul flights to exotic locations, which was something that could take the shine off of an otherwise perfect experience. Choose Europe however and rest and relaxation are on our doorstep. Whatever your preference, European luxury destinations will have something to suit your need.

Top 10 luxury destinations in Europe

You can find luxury across the continent, if you know where to look, but if you are new to luxury European getaways then these are some of the most popular spots with other holidaymakers.

1. Monte Carlo

The capital of the principality of Monaco is well known as a resort that caters to luxury tastes. Thinks fine dining, evenings in the casino or luxury yacht charters. Five star hotels abound, with spa facilities on tap.

2. French Riviera

Sitting on the Mediterranean coast, the French Riviera has long been synonymous with luxury. Resorts such as Nice and Cannes are favourite haunts of the Hollywood elite and the accommodation on offer caters to high-class tastes. Enjoy the beautiful beaches or watch the world go by from the pavement cafes.

3. Switzerland

The Swiss Alps have long been a draw for those seeking to restore balance and harmony, so it is no surprise that this region is home to some amazing spa retreats. Alpine air, stunning scenery and five-star service are readily found here.

4. Balearics

The Spanish Island group may be popular with those seeking a traditional beach break, but they are also home to some more high spec holiday destinations. Ibiza offers great alternative spa resorts, while Majorca has a superb selection of luxury hotels.

5. Greek Islands

With their stunning seascapes and tradition of hospitality it is no surprise that the Greek Islands are a great place to find a luxury break. Choose from remote mountain hotels with all services or all-inclusive beachside complexes.

6. Sardinia

The Italian Island offers some of the Med’s most beautiful beaches and its recent rise in popularity with holidaymakers has seen the emergence of some great luxury accommodations. Choose from stunning villas finished to high spec or full service hotels ready to cater to your every need.

7. Croatia Dalmation Coast

Since the Balkan states opened up in the 1990s more and more travellers have been discovering the delights of the Dalmation Coast. This stretch of Croatian shore is a luxury traveller’s paradise, with popular holiday choices including crewed yacht charters allowing visitors to enjoy intimacy and autonomy while they explore the many islands in the area.

8. Neapolitan Riviera

Arguably the most stunning coastline in Italy. A wide range of exclusive hotels is available in the area, offering access to such delights as Sorrento and the island of Capri. Rental cars are a great option for those wanting to drive the wonderful winding coast roads to enjoy amazing sea views or head to nearby Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.

9. Iceland

If you prefer your luxury destinations a little more natural, then Iceland is where it is at. With its high cost of living, many Icelandic resorts fall in the luxury bracket by default – but this isn’t to say they don’t belong here. Reykjavik boasts a great array of luxury boutique hotels, while those seeking seclusion

10. Scotland

With some of the most stunning landscapes in Europe Scotland is the well-kept secret of luxury travel. Highland retreats and hunting lodges offer five star service – this is also the perfect destination for connoisseurs of malt whisky.

Doug Scott is a Managing Director at Carrentals.co.uk.

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Taking a quality European tour is often only a once-in-a-decade pleasure! World travelers have to ask for time off from work, have a caretaker, water the plants and board the pets, book travel transportation and accommodations, worry about language barriers and money conversions, and determine what sightseeing is worth the tourist’s time and money! Sometimes the vacation wasn’t even worth the hassle and stress it caused in the planning.

So, how do travelers make sure they have the best Europe tour trips that let them experience gorgeous destinations without all the stress? A European river cruise and tour is one exciting and simple solution. Scenic river cruises let travelers tour some of the prettiest areas of Europe through tranquil waterways like the Danube and Rhine Rivers, which have been used as trade routes for centuries.

Danube River Cruises

Often called the elegant Danube, river cruises that float this body of water can pass through up to ten countries including four capital cities. Travelers that dream of seeing the countryside of Germany, Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia, or exploring gorgeous international cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Passau all in the same trip should look into a Danube River cruise to fulfil their dream vacation. The area of the Danube River Valley between Melk and Krems is also known as the Wachau and is a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural landscape due to the historic castles, ruins, and monasteries that are prolific in the area.

Rhine River Cruises

The romantic Rhine River travels through Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, France, and the Netherlands all the way to the North Sea. The Upper Middle Rhine Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site of historical, ecological, and cultural significance and the vineyards and castles seen from the river add to the romance of the cruise.

One of the best things about scenic river cruises is that the ports are almost always in the center of the cities. This allows instant access to the cultural centers of the different metropolitan destinations; travelers just walk off the ship and are in the middle of town! This also eliminates the hassle and time of packing and unpacking between cities travelers might want to experience. This is especially important for those travelers that like to walk around the center of towns without having to stay on the outside of town due to expense; a mobile bedroom that conveniently takes tourist to the most exciting destinations across Europe!

Tour operators that offer Rhine and Danube River cruises take all the stress out of booking accommodations, travel plans, and sightseeing as they create care-free itineraries that set the stage for a fantastic vacation. As European countries float by in a seemingly endless panorama of history and beauty, travelers can have peace of mind that their escorted vacation provided the greatest ease, value, and sights for their cherished vacation days.

Carol Atkins is a Group Travel Leader with YMT Vacations.

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Montenegro has just had the sort of publicity Max Clifford would give his Granny’s eye teeth for. Billionaire Nat Rothschild eschewed the usual suspects (Skibo Castle, South of France, Marrakesh)  and held his 40th-birthday party (three fun-filled days, 400 of his closest friends and one million of the Queen’s pounds) in this pristine corner of the former Yugoslavia, so small Wales only fits into it the once.  The column inches this generated for the event and, therefore, the venue has reinforced the tiny tourist-dependent state’s image as the up and coming holiday destination  for discriminating A-listers. So what’s all the fuss about?

1. Aman Sveti Stefan

After a painstaking and agonisingly protracted restoration, one of the world’s leading luxury hoteliers has brought one of Europe’s most iconic postcard images (the fairytale 15th-century island village rising out of a sparkling Adriatic) back to its brilliant best. Sveti Stefan is one of those things: a travel legend that actually lives up to its billing. The hotch potch of old stone buildings tumbling down twisting alleyways is utterly beautiful and ultimately romantic even more so now that its humble fisherman’s homes have been turned into five-star palaces. It ticks the old buzz word: location as well as the brand new one: authenticity. Aman has employed its usual restraint so the cottages remain simple: a vase of fresh rosemary will probably be the only adornment, lighting is based on the old fisherman’s lamps, wives used to hand in the window to will their husbands’ safe passage. Aman Sveti Stefan is where the AAA-list guests for Rothschild party stayed. It is head, shoulders- and knees and toes above anything else in the country and one of the hottest hotels in the Med right now. But Aman’s arrival means Four Seasons, Banyan Tree and Kempinski are all planning properties.

2. Porto Montenegro

This new £500m destination marina is where Rothschild held his main celebration, a disco at the Lido Mar. It’s a very cool beach club, with a stunning 65-metre infinity pool that seems to flow right into the bay beyond. The marina (in which Rothschild is an investor along with Oleg Deripaska) hopes to rival Cannes and Monte Carlo and has berthing for hundreds of super-yachts worth up to £130m as well as waterfront properties, owned by the likes of Eddie Jordan and Novak Djokovik. There’s also a small band of boutique designer stores such as Heidi Klein and a couple of restaurants. Porto Montenegro has a truly spectacular setting,  with craggy limestone mountains crashing into the Bay of Kotor. However, the marina staff bandy around the expression new frontier a lot. Translated that means it’s still only half built. Right now, there’s not a right lot there. It is definitely worth a day’s sunbathing at the lido, which is very sexy, but two days might be stretching the X factor.

3. The natural beauty: Montenegro is gorgeous

A combination of mountains and sparkling sea is always a winner,  especially when they’re fringed by pink pebble beaches. There are lovely medieval towns such as Kotor, which has its own mini version of the Great Wall of China, and the old capital Cetinje which barely registers we’re now in the 21st century. Mount Bjelasica is one of only three remaining virgin forests in Europe and Tara River Canyon, making it the second deepest in the world to the Grand Canyon. There is fantastic seafood and hours of entertainment attempting to pronounce Montengrin place names. A word of advice, it is much easier to say Pljevlja after a few glasses of the local rocket fuel.

Susan d’Arcy is Editor of Spa Confidential.

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It’s that time of year again when the foliage on the trees begins to take on all manner of dramatic colours, and budding photographers the world over try to make the most of the myriad of different hues. Tripadvisor have come up with a ‘top 10 spots for stunning Autumn colours’ list (see below). What would be your choices and why?

1. White Mountains, New Hampshire, USA
2. Kyoto, Japan
3. Berkshires, Massachusetts, USA
4. Transylvania, Romania
5. Perugia, Italy
6. Stowe, Vermont, USA
7. Bamberg, Germany
8. Ticino, Switzerland
9. Bergen, Norway
10. Beijing, China

Whether you want a calm and upscale stag holiday or a more rambunctious occasion where the drinks flow freely, you can find whatever you are looking for at some of the best stag destinations around the world. From Asia to Europe, there are countless attractions, bars, and nightclubs to entertain you, and provide you with great entertainment before the groom’s wedding day. Visit one of these top 10 destinations for a luxury stag holiday around the world.

1. Berlin

This capital city of Germany makes a great destination for more than just the fantastic beer. The modern location and inexpensive prices mean you can live like a king, if only for the weekend. For a true luxury stag do, visit one of the many breweries Germany is famous for and take a private tasting tour. The nightlife doesn’t end at 1am, or 2, or even 3. Clubs are happy to stay open as late as you want, so don’t be surprised if the sun is up before you head back to your hotel.

2. Copenhagen

This Danish city offers the high life for those who want something more unique and classy than a typical rowdy stag do. Bodegas, or cellar bars, line the streets and offer a refreshing change of pace from the pub. The women in Copenhagen are not used to an influx of visitors, so visitors stand out and make an impression here. Copenhagen is home to Carlsberg, so drinks will certainly not be a problem at this great destination.

3. Istanbul

No other city in the world blends Western modernity with ancient culture quite like Istanbul. The hotels offers amazing amenities that make you feel like royalty, and are located among ancient ruins and incredible architecture. Drink with the locals and enjoy water pipes, and then head to the clubs where local beauties are happy to explain local culture to you. Recover in the morning with popular and inexpensive massages at the Turkish baths.

4. Moscow

This makes for no ordinary stag party. Start the trip with incredible activities to make you feel like a man, including gun shooting and tank driving, no ordinary pastimes for a stag holiday. The nightlife is where Moscow really shines as the ultimate party location. Strip clubs and night clubs are countless in the city, and you will enjoy every second of your evening–at least the parts you can remember after all the vodka.

5. Munich

This German city takes the cake for beer lovers. If you happen to have a stag party planned for October, there is really only one choice for destinations. Oktoberfest is easily the biggest party on earth, and is centered entirely around beer. What more could a stag ask for? Even if it’s not the right time of year, the city is home to beer gardens, buxom beer maidens, and plenty of university girls who make the nightclub scene so spectacular.

6. New York

Become royalty in the city that never sleeps with a trendy stag party. Try sightseeing from a stretch limo or hummer, and drink champagne as you see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the impressive skyline. With no shortage of fine clubs or beautiful woman, this is a great destination for any group. And if you are traveling from abroad, those American women love a good accent…

7. Zagreb

This Croatian city is quickly becoming a popular destination for a stag weekend abroad. It comes as no surprise, because the combination of inexpensive drinks, friendly locals, and beautiful women is an alluring one. Get VIP access to one of the great nightclubs in the city, and be prepared for a long night, as there are no closing times at any of the most popular clubs.

8. Dubai

For the ultimate luxury destination, Dubai is the answer. Nothing can compete with this incredibly upscale and glamorous location, where VIP means more than just rope cordoning off your section of the club. Visit Ferrari World during the day, and then head to the bars and clubs where the wealthiest men and women in the world gather to unwind. Dance the night away in a club, or just sip fine liquor from one of the tallest buildings in the world.

9. Las Vegas

For a high roller, no other city is more alluring than the gambling metropolis of Las Vegas.Whether you want to risk it all at the poker tables, or just sip drinks by the pool and take in the beauties tanning, this destination has it all. Drinks are free while you are on the gambling floor, which just means you have more to spend in the incredible nightclubs found in the hotels along the Strip.

10. Bangkok

This exotic Asian city offers everything you could want from a stag party destination; Warm weather, beautiful and friendly women, inexpensive drinks and accommodations, and a nightlife scene that puts others to shame. For a taste of the Orient, head to Bangkok for a special stag holiday.

Ian Lucas is Managing Director at Red Seven Leisure.

If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

For just five days in June 2011, diners in Estonia’s cultural capital, Tallinn, can enjoy Champagne, aperitifs, lunch or dinner 50 metres in the air with spectacular views over the medieval Old Town, Tallinn’s steel and glass business sector and the Bay of Finland.

Dinner in the Sky® can be enjoyed daily between 8th and 12th June 2011, in Tallinn’s Rotermann quarter, the transformed former industrial area between the Old Town and the sea. Guests harnessed into specially constructed dining chairs and seated with 21 other diners at a table, suspended to a height of 50 metres, and enjoy cuisine prepared under the auspices of award winning Executive Chef Rene Uusmees, a patron of modern Estonian cuisine.

High flyers in Tallinn are offered four choices of ‘lift length’ and menu, from a 20 minute Champagne and aperitif ‘taster’ (29 euros pp), to an 80 minute four course meal with aperitif, wine and Cognac, with the final dinner of the day served at sunset by the chef with Tallinn’s skyline as a backdrop (84 euros pp). A 40 minute 3 course lunch and a 60 minute 4 course dinner is also offered.

Looking for somewhere really special to take your partner out for dinner? Tripadvisor have announced their 10 most romantic restaurants and for once there’s a good geographic spread with not one country represented more than once. Here’s the list they came up with, but please tell us your favourites that didn’t make the list but you feel should make the world’s top 10 most romantic.

1. The Library, Rome, Italy
2. Atmosphere Lounge Restaurant, Santorini, Greece
3. Bateaux Parisiens, Paris, France
4. La Veranda, Cozumel, Mexico
5. Orgasmic, Koh Samui, Thailand
6. Restaurant Couvert, Bruges, Belgium
7. Clos Maggiore, London, England
8. Bateaux Dubai, Dubai, UAE
9. Terasa u Zlate Studne, Prague, Czech Republic
10. Ambrai, Udaipur, India

If you’re planning a trip anywhere in Europe and looking to really indulge yourself in complete luxury, there are many great hotels out there that can attend to your every need. Here are some of the best.

1. Casa Fuster, Barcelona

The Casa Fuster is popular with many travellers as this gives you a real flavour of the city. Based on the iconic, Gaudi style architecture that dominates here, this is an impressive building right from the moment you first see it.

The hotel boasts that ultimate in luxury – a roof terrace with its own pool, but this is just one of the many first class amenities here. Location wise, the Casa Fuster is situated in the most affluent part of town, right next to all the best shopping.

2. Hotel de Crillon, Paris

Situated on the famous Place de la Concorde, the Hotel de Crillon is a striking building that is a historic monument, attracting many visitors in its own right.

Inside you will find complete luxury in every last tiny detail. With a gourmet restaurant that has been lauded by many leading food critics heading its list of impeccable facilities, the Hotel de Crillon is top of the list for many visitors. Reviews are always glowing and this really is one of the best places to stay in Europe.

3. The Three Sisters, Tallin

The former Soviet Union has thrown open its doors and countries such as Estonia are more than just up and coming destinations. Luxury hotels such as the Three Sisters are helping Estonia become established as a ‘must see’ location.

Situated within the 14th century city walls, the mediaeval exterior is complimented by a stunning contemporary design inside.

Facilities are unequalled in the Three Sisters and for luxury and comfort in Tallin, this is the place to be.

4. Hotel Adlon, Berlin

This imposing building formed the basis for the Greta Garbo film, Grand Hotel. It gained more notoriety when Michael Jackson dangled his baby from one of the windows but for pure luxury, there is no better in Berlin.

Berlin is back on the tourist map and hotels such as the Adlon are the reason why people love coming here. Rooms are simply stunning and the amenities second to none. Location is also important in any hotel and the Adlon is close to some of Berlin`s best attractions including the Reichstag and the Brandenburg Gate.

5. Amstel Intercontinental, Amsterdam

You can feel the exclusivity of this hotel as soon as you approach thanks in the main to its situation in a quiet, private square along the Amstel River.

This is a delightful, yet supremely luxurious hotel that is proud of its widely acclaimed facilities. It is worth noting that the main restaurant here, La Rive is one of a very exclusive club of starred Michelin restaurants in the city.

If you are lucky enough to stay in any of these fantastic hotels then you are guaranteed a trip that will stay in your memory for a lifetime. All of the cities are easily accessible with good air, rail and road links and are waiting to offer you an experience you will never forget.

Joanne Wallis is Head of Online Marketing at Ferry from Hull.

If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

Tripadvisor have contacted me with their list of the top 10 hotels in Europe. And it’s perhaps not the most obvious names that make the list. Here’s their top 10:

1. Golden Well (U Zlate Studne), Prague, Czech Republic
2. Anastasis Apartments, Imerovigli, Greece
3. Al Ponte Antico Hotel, Venice, Italy
4. La Villa Marbella – Charming Hotel, Marbella, Spain
5. Hotel Prinsenhof Bruges, Bruges, Belgium
6. Britania Hotel, Lisbon, Portugal
7. Hotel Albergaria Dias, Funchal, Portugal
8. Hotel Davanzati, Florence, Italy
9. Hotel Palazzo Zichy, Budapest, Hungary
10. Can Furios Hotel, Binibona, Spain

Which hotels would you put in your top 10 European hotels?

Hundreds of thousands of travellers descend on to Bulgaria every year; in fact they come all year round. From the summer sun of Golden Sands or Sunny Beach on the Black Sea coast to the snow capped mountain resorts of Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo there is something for everyone.

This being said there is a large amount of Bulgaria hidden away that hardly any travellers has discovered and enjoyed. This area of Bulgaria is the rolling foothills at the bottom of Bulgaria’s mountain ranges, a place full of history and intrigue that offers the perfect relaxing holiday.

The foothills of Bulgaria are a place where many have lived for thousands of years; the reasons for this are simple. This area of Bulgaria offers fast flowing water that descends from the mountains, forests where animals roam free and fertile land for growing.

Today many people still live off the land in the many villages found in the foothills of the Bulgarian mountain ranges such as Zhrebichko in the foothills of the Rhodope Mountains.

For travellers the hills are a hidden dream, a place where you can go walking in unspoilt lands that time have forgotten and sample the true culture of Bulgaria in old villages that have been left behind in the advance of society.

The beauty of the hidden Bulgaria is that there are mountainous ranges across the country so the options open to travellers wishing to visit are great. Whether you wish to sample rocky hills, rolling hills, or simply walk through the forests of Bulgaria there are so many places available it boggles the mind.

The people of Bulgaria know of her hidden secrets and are known to go up into the hills on a regular basis for walks and to enjoy time with family and friends. The question is why has no one from outside of Bulgaria has cottoned on to the fact?

If you like orienteering, adventure holidays such as biking and climbing, or simply want to have an enjoyable walk in unspoilt lands that offer breath taking views then a trip to the foothills of Bulgaria is for you.

Guy Marlow is a Director at Bear Sole Travel.

If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

Looking for somewhere in Europe with distinctive charm?  Then take a look at this recently-published Tripadvisor list of the top 10 charming European towns and cities. Unlike many previous TA lists that we’ve published, this one isn’t overly-dominated by any one country but instead offers a good mix of options. Let us know what you think… are there any notable omissions, would you say?

1. Bruges, Belgium
2. Siena, Italy
3. Sitges, Spain
4. Dingle, Ireland
5. Mittenwald, Germany
6. Salisbury, England
7. Fontaine de Vaucluse, France
8. Cascais, Portugal
9. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
10. Kotor, Montenegro