Jumeirah Vittaveli, Maldives

Having opened in December 2011 Jumeirah Vittaveli is already gathering outstanding reviews and it’s little wonder with the Beach Villa lead-in room types spanning an interior of a whopping 184 sq m. It’s space, comfort and luxury all the way as each villa comes with its own private L-shaped swimming pool with furnished sun deck, fully stocked wine cellar, exclusive stretch of beach, massage and dining Sala and a host of in-room gadgets like the Apple media centre and BOSE sound system with iPod and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access. Deep breaths…

Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa, Abu Dhabi

Due to open at the end of May is the latest offering from Anantara who brought Qasr al Sarab and Desert Islands Resort & Spa to prominence in the Abu Dhabi desert. Eastern Mangroves will be an inspired Arabian and Colonial styled fusion hotel of 224 rooms and suites across five levels. The hotel forms part of an integrated hotel, marina, retail and residential zone known as the Eastern Mangroves district which is set away from the city life of central Abu Dhabi and its Corniche. Here you’ll find invigorating spa, expansive infinity pool, retail shops and an intimate Thai restaurant serving the finest Asian cuisine.

Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa, Indonesia

The brilliantly named Impossible Beach is the destination for this stunning new spa resort with cliff’s edge infinity pool and modern hillside moored penthouses with floor to ceiling glass windows. A secret cave is available for private dining experiences and despite the classic luxury concept, a kids club will sway those travelling with families looking for a deeply romantic, spiritual escape. From guided elephant trekking excursions to sunset temple tours and diving and water sports to Indonesian cookery classes, guests have a wide range of activities should they wish to venture away from the pool or spa.

Kempinski, Seychelles

Set to open on 1st March is this new Indian Ocean offering from the group responsible for the lavish Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. Located on Mahe around 30 minutes from the international airport, Kempinski will boast a long stretch of white sand beach, a casino, spa with five treatment rooms and a host of leisure facilities including a kids club to tempt families. Business facilities will include banqueting and conference rooms for up to 200 delegates – and a total of 144 sea view rooms and suites, including an opulent Presidential Suite.

Niyama, Maldives

The newest addition by Per Aquum who brought us Huvafen Fushi Maldives and Desert Palm Dubai are set to open this exciting double island luxury retreat at the end of February. It’s certainly going to be special; unwind with a treatment at their signature Lime Spa and utilise the services of your own personal Thakuru (butler)- included for all room types. Expect luxury outdoor bathrooms, resort wide Wi-Fi and the piece de resistance – Niyama LIVE – a floating restaurant above the water and below it the very first underwater nightclub in the Maldives which will play host to emerging international DJ’s and musical artistes.

Jumeirah Port Soller, Majorca

With its anticipated opening this spring, Jumeirah’s portfolio hits Spain for the very first time with this luxury Cliffside resort surrounded by traditional pine forests on one side and the Mediterranean on the other. Guarded by the UNESCO Heritage Tramuntana mountain range, the resort is designed to sensitively blend into the environment with each of the eleven buildings being no taller than three storeys high. World class service will enhance the experience for every guest, the Talise branded Spa will offer a wealth of treatments and 5 restaurants all with perfect sea views will provide the perfect indulgence.

Gaya Island Resort, Borneo

No less than 40 acres make up the Gaya Island Resort, Borneo’s newest addition expected to open in April 2012. Location wise it’s a dream, where a combination of coral reef, golden beach and lush rainforest makes the destination triply enticing – visuals of this island paradise are simply breathtaking. Hill Villas and Two Bedroom Suites form the accommodation in clusters to the expected high specification and when you factor in the integrated spa village and fine Malaysian dining into the equation you begin to realise this is quite some proposition.

Jumeirah Creekside, Dubai

Jumeirah’s portfolio expands further still with the creation of this contemporary 5 star business hotel in the heart of Old Town of Dubai. Key highlights include its signature rooftop bar and lounge where you can gaze out over the Creek and golf club as well as a choice of 8 bars and restaurants. If you are visiting here on business then no less than 23 conference rooms are available to book as well as a contemporary ballroom accommodating up to 1000 people.

Viceroy, Maldives

The prestigious Viceroy hotel chain plan to open their latest luxury resort in the Maldives on the 2nd April, and this will be located on the 17 acre island of Vagaru accessible by seaplane from Male in around 1 hour. Epic bungalows at 192sqm are the lead-in room types, featuring oversized plunge pool, secluded garden, private sundeck with chaise longue and a luxurious living area. The resort is fully Wi-Fi compatible and a range of water sports and PADI diving trips as well as a luxury spa and boutique must be taken advantage of.

Nurai, Abu Dhabi

A sparkling new concept resort by the Per Aquum group, Nurai defines the height of style and elegance and will be situated on a 130,000sqm private island to the north east of Abu Dhabi city. Comprising of glass walled private waterside residences – each seaside estate will include a concealed beach rooftop garden with spa pool, infinity swimming pool, indoor reflecting pools, concealed service quarters, entertainment patios, outdoor dining areas, chef and show kitchens and outdoor showers. Nurai is reached in 5 minutes by helicopter from Abu Dhabi airport. Expected to open late 2012 or early 2013.

Carole Booth is Commercial Director at Destinology.

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

Top 10 new luxury hotels for 2012 is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

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.

The top 25 luxury hotels in the world is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

An abundance of honours were handed out at the do, with arguably the top award of the night going to Jumeirah, who received the esteemed World Excellence in Service award, as well as Etihad Airways, who went home with the gong for World’s Leading Airline award for the third time in three years.

Although there are so many new contenders in the All Suite Hotel category, the lavish Burj Al Arab proudly received this accolade, and not for the first time either – Burj has taken home this award on a massive seven occasions in the category’s 13 years! The hotel was also proud to receive the overall award for World’s Leading Hotel – again for the seventh year in a row!

Mardan Palace in Turkey won the World’s Leading Luxury Resort prize, while Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa took home the award for the World’s Leading Family Resort, and One&Only The Palm in Dubai was named as the World’s Leading New Resort.

The island of Jamaica was the winner of the World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination award, which has been traditionally won by a Caribbean isle since 2001, but is the first time that Jamaica has been awarded the prize. Previous years have seen this category won by Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados and most abundantly of late, St Lucia.

The World’s Leading Eco Resort & Spa award went to the delightful Thai resort of Soneva Kiri by Six Senses, while the World’s Leading Eco-Lodge award was presented to South Africa’s Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, Dwyka Tented Lodge. Trou Aux Biches in Mauritius, which re-opened its doors towards the end of 2010 after a full refit, won the award for World’s Leading Beach Destination.

It was a wonderful night for the travel industry, and we are very pleased that so many of our airline, tourist board and hotel friends were rewarded for their services to travel during 2011.

Carole Booth is Commercial Director at Destinology.

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

World Travel Awards – The Grand Final is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

This could be the perfect surprise for Christmas or the New Year! Chose between any of their luxury four and five star hotels or holidays up to a value of Ł1,500. Whether you are looking for a romantic rural getaway, an idyllic beach retreat or a chic city break, the choice is yours.

Voyage Privé is a luxury travel club that scours the globe to bring its members unforgettable getaways, at unbelievable prices. Their experts hand pick only the best holidays and hotels, then make sure they source their members the best deal possible with up to 70% off.

To enter, simply register to become a member before 31st December 2011.

Win a luxury romantic getaway! is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

1. St. Moritz, Switzerland
2. Aspen, US
3. Courchevel, France
4. Jackson Hole, US
5. Park City, US
6. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
7. Chamonix, France
8. Gstaad, Switzerland
9. Hinterglemm, Austria
10. Courmayeur, Italy

10 of the most glamourous ski destinations in the world is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

Lexus Experiences are jam-packed full of exciting and inspiring ways to make the most of the festival season, so why not give someone a gift they will never forget this year?  Prices start from Ł135pp.

Combining luxury and excitement – the Lexus Experiences is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

New & Noteworthy (the best new and re-invented hotels)

Babylonstoren - Cape Winelands, South Africa
The Cosmopolitan - Las Vegas, Nevada
Hayman Island - Hayman Island, Australia
Hotel Bel-Air - Los Angeles, California
Hotel de l’Europe - Amsterdam, Netherlands
Marina Bay Sands - Singapore, Singapore
Mondrian Soho - NYC, New York
The Redbury - Los Angeles, California
Soho Beach House Miami - Miami Beach, Florida

Grande Dame (legendary hotels with superlative history and service)

The Baur au Lac – Zurich, Switzerland
The Breakers – Palm Beach, Florida
The Carlyle – NYC, New York
The Hay-Adams – Washington, D.C.
Hotel de Russie – Rome, Italy
The King David Hotel – Jerusalem, Israel
La Mamounia – Marrakesh, Morocco
Plaza Athenee – Paris, France
Sandy Lane Hotel – Barbados, Caribbean
The Savoy – London, England
Villa D’Este – Lake Como, Italy
Villa Magna – Madrid, Spain

Casual Chic (effortlessly stylish hotels with rustic-modern appeal)

The Allison Inn & Spa – Willamette Valley, Oregon
Bardessono – Napa, California
Be Tulum – Tulum, Mexico
Blancaneaux Lodge – Mountain Pine Ridge, Cayo, Belize
Casa Higueras – Valparaiso, Chile
Casas Brancas Boutique Hotel & Spa – Buzios, Brazil
Cavo Tagoo – Mykonos, Greece
Coco Palm – St. Lucia, Caribbean
Hotel Adriana – Hvar, Croatia
Laluna Resort – Grenada, Caribbean
The Majlis -Lamu, Kenya
Rockhouse Hotel – Jamaica, Caribbean
The Wickaninnish Inn – Tofino, Canada

Design (cutting edge boutique hotels at all price points)

3+1 Bedrooms – Beijing , China
CitizenM – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Faena Hotel + Universe – Buenos Aires, Argentina
Hotel Missoni – Edinburgh, Scotland
The Hoxton Hotel – London, England
JIA – Hong Kong, China
Lux 11 – Berlin, Germany
Mondrian South Beach – Miami Beach, Florida
URBN – Shanghai, China

Local Flavor (go-to hotels for a truly authentic experience)

Argos in Cappadocia – Cappadocia, Turkey
Clayoquot Wilderness Resort – British Columbia, Canada
Evason Ma’in Hot Springs and Six Senses Spa – Dead Sea, Jordan
Fairmont Chateau Montebello – Quebec, Canada
Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm – Albuquerque, New Mexico
Lumley Castle – Durham, England
Montpellier Plantation and Beach – St. Kitts and Nevis, Caribbean
Post Ranch Inn – Big Sur, California
Schlosshotel Chaste – Tarasp, Switzerland
Sundance Resort – Sundance, Utah
Triple Creek Ranch – Darby, Montana
Tsitouras Collection, Firostefani on Santorini – Santorini, Greece
Waimea Plantation Cottages – Kauai, Hawaii

Clubby Atmosphere (hip, urban pied-ŕ-terres)

101 Hotel – Reykjavik, Iceland
21C Museum Hotel – Louisville, Kentucky
The Ace Hotel – NYC, New York
The Augustine – Prague, Czech Republic
Bowery Hotel – NYC, New York
Drake Hotel – Toronto, Canada
The Dupont Circle Hotel – Washington, D.C.
Hollywood Roosevelt – Los Angeles, California
Hotel Fasano – Sao Paulo, Brazil
L’Hôtel – Paris, France
Liberty Hotel Boston – Boston, Massachussetts
Mansion on Forsyth Park – Savannah, Georgia
Queensberry Hotel – Bath & the Cotswolds, West Country, England
Vanderbilt Grace – Newport, Rhode Island

Luxurious Retreat (top choices for a complete escape)

Amanyara – Turks & Caicos, Caribbean
Ashford Castle – Cong, County Mayo, Ireland
Blackberry Farm – Walland, Tennessee
Cap Rocat – Mallorca, Spain
Capri Tiberio Palace – Capri, Italy
Four Seasons Carmelo – Carmelo, Uruguay
Hotel St-Barth Isle de France – St. Barts, Caribbean
Inkaterra Machu Picchu – Machu Picchu, Peru
Kasbah Bab Ourika – Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Little Palm Island Resort and Spa – Little Torch Key, Florida
Lodge at Kauri Cliffs – Matauri Bay, New Zealand
Oberoi Udaivilas – Rajasthan, India
Rosewood Mayakoba – Riviera Maya, Mexico
Sabi Sabi’s Selati Lodge – Kruger Park, South Africa

Trusted Brand (world class examples of international hotel chains)

ANA InterContinental Tokyo – Tokyo, Japan
CasaMagna Marriott Resort – Cancun, Mexico
Four Seasons Hotel Sultanahmet – Istanbul, Turkey
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa – Kauai, Hawaii
Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa – Bora Bora, French Polynesia
JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa – Phoenix, Arizona
Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong – Hong Kong, China
Park Hyatt Paris Vendome – Paris, France
Peninsula Bangkok – Bangkok, Thailand
Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay – Half Moon Bay, California
Sandals Emerald Bay – Bahamas, Caribbean
The Shelbourne Dublin, Renaissance – Dublin, Ireland
Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom – Vienna, Austria
St. Regis Punta Mita – Punta Mita, Mexico
W St. Petersburg – St. Petersburg, Russia
Westin Europa & Regina – Venice, Italy

Fodor’s 100 Hotel Awards 2011 is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

Gary Mansour, founder of Mansour Travel with offices in Beverly Hills and Cannes, agrees. Already in 2006 Monsour identified ‘experiential travel’ and the demand for ‘authenticity’ť as rising trends with his A-list clientele of celebrities and corporate VIPs alike. The trend has only grown since then, and today the general consensus sees the movement continuing to gain momentum with luxury travelers.

Numerous tour operators, agents and organizations caught on to this trend in recent years, and the luxury traveler now benefits from virtually unlimited choice. Luxury operators such as Abercrombie & Kent have offered personal guides and itineraries to far-flung destinations with insider access for years without the label of ‘experiential travel’.ť African safaris and Arctic explorations, for example, have become ever more popular and accessible; yet now, a new class of agents and organizations dedicated to experiential travel emerges in the luxury travel industry. Witness the rise in popularity and importance of the PURE Life Experiences conference in Marrakech this month (1st-4th November 2011), bringing together nearly a thousand travel industry experts, journalists, and private travel designers from across the globe (by invitation only) to network and discuss every aspect of experiential and ‘transformational travel’ť as they also refer to it. Some of the new experiences promoted this year include yacht-based heli-skiing and former KGB agents and cosmonauts for tour guides.

Experiential travel clearly comes in different forms for different people. Some may find time spent with locals in the squalor of an Indian slum a life changing and enlightening experience, for example, while others will come away from the same experience with a disturbing feeling of unbalanced sadness. Some climb mountains for the sense of personal achievement and connection with nature, while others access a similar connection through solitary meditation in a peaceful place of beauty. But all experiential travelers seem to seek meaning and understanding in themselves and the world around them through engaging journeys. They relish the memories of experiences that changed their lives or perceptions.

This fact explains the increasing variety of experiential travel itineraries. Remote destinations in Southeast Asia, South Africa and the Arctic, for example, will continue to entice; however, it’s not necessary to journey so far (or indeed, sleep in a tent or compromise your safety) in order to realize personal insight or transformation. Americans have vast and impressive landscapes to discover themselves in without leaving the country, and Europe contains more cultural diversity within a relatively small area than perhaps any other continent on Earth, allowing Europeans engaging and authentic cultural encounters in their own backyards. From the Dordogne to Tuscany, and Andalusia to the foothills of Bulgaria, numerous European destinations offer unimagined opportunities beneath the well-tread surface.

Nor is it strictly necessary to book an adventure through a major operator. In fact, many of the emerging agents and operators dedicated to experiential travel seem to be small businesses. Often times, careful research or recommendations from trusted agents reveal specialist local operators and even reputable private villa owners themselves who are in a prime position to offer the most authentic local experiences and access.

A sampling of near-flung experiential outings in Andalusia alone:
- Push your limits with a climb or hike in the mountains and ponder the nesting place of eagles or the mating place of other rare birds.
- Join a goat herder on a days trek through the hills.
- Partake in grape or olive harvests and the winemaking or milling process with the experts.
- Explore the blend of cultures through an in depth discovery of the cuisine, including a private culinary course.
- Take a beginner’s lesson in bullfighting or flamenco dancing.
- Join conservation efforts with locals in a national nature reserve.
- Open range excursions and adventure sports.
- Sit in silence and let the nature of the place guide your thoughts.
- Reflect on the encounters with private spa treatments and a luxurious bed at the end of the day.

Above all, intermingling in meaningful ways with locals, tasting their way of life, trying to understand their point of view and reconciling contradictions with one’s self, stepping out of one’s comfort zone and into a new realm, these are some of the foundations of transformational travel. And many experiential travelers would advise, don’t try too hard to organize everything in advance or set rigid expectations; after all, experiential travel really is about encountering the unknown, reflecting on the experience and melding it into your working personal philosophy on life and living.

Alan Hazel is Owner and Director of Cortijo El Carligto.

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

Experiential travel: new horizons for the luxury traveler is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

Tahitian Dance

The first dance that I found really mesmerizing was the Tahitian dance, from French Polynesia. This is called the otea, characterized by the fast hip shaking. This dance is carried out by both male and female dancers and is played to music, generally fast drums, but has no singing. The dancers are often dressed in grass skirts with no shoes.

The dancers make gestures, re-enacting the preoccupations of daily life. The women’s gestures can be related to the combing of hair or the flight of a butterfly. Men’s gestures are often related to war or sailing.

The dance itself is a mesmerizing combination of body contortions to the pace of fast drums. Some dances make you want to join in and dance. This dance is for watching, as you quickly realize that you could not possibly do what they are doing, and you might as well watch for what it is, a unique and scintillating performance of dance.

Samba

The Samba from Brazil is not only a type of dance, but also a type of music. At its pinnacle the Carnival, especially in Rio de Janeiro, is the world spectacle which is devoted to samba dance and music. Dress or lack of it, is usually very elaborate but little more than a costume that covers the most essential parts.

Samba dance is a gliding kind of dance which involves the elegant use of one’s body. The dance was started in Salvador, Bahia from the descendants of African slaves, but made its way to Rio de Janeiro where it has found a more famous cultural home.

Although women are the more elegant samba dancers, anybody can try to dance it, especially during the Carnival and can make an absolute fool of themselves, without anybody noticing.

Balinese

The Balinese dance is a very elegant dance, usually performed in elaborate ceremonies or plays which have deep cultural meaning. The Balinese make very elegant use of their hands as well as their feet in the dance, which adds a vibrant poignancy. The Balinese are a proud and culturally rich people and it shows in the elegant sophistication of their dance. The dance is carried out in their very finest traditional clothing.

Tango

The tango is famous all over the world as the dance from Argentina. Tango originated from a number of European influences and African culture. The music emerged from various fusions of European music. Tang’s fame spread all around the world when dancers and musicians from Argentina visited Europe and the United States at the start of the 20th Century, which resulted in it becoming a global phenomenon.

Tango is danced by a couple who, when they are in time and tune with each other, can make it a very exciting dance to watch. It is also a dance to participate in, and is an excellent method of keeping fit and in shape.

Zulu

Zulu dancing is from South Africa and is a traditional dance performed at traditional times such as times of war and marriage. It is definitely a dance to watch rather than participate in, as the movements are brusque and active, consisting of lifting the legs high over the head a considerable amount of times. It is performed by both men and women dressed in traditional grass skirts for the ladies, and grass shorts and spears for the men.

Gerard Moxon is Founder of Luxury Hedonist.

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

The 5 most exotic dances in the world is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

Get ready to pack those bags and experience the style and glamour that you deserve.

Luxury market recovery

We have all felt the effects of the recession, but the luxury travel sector was hit especially hard – which makes sense, when you have less money you scale down your plans. Even though the market has been recovering we are seeing some great available savings for luxury hotels as the sector continues to recuperate.

Where to book?

Some of the best prices can be found in areas that have had new hotels come online. When a destination adds new hotel rooms or hotels, more often than not they need help filling those rooms with travellers. So, they will turn to travel sites to help them do so – at deeply discounted prices. Recently, this trend is taking place in Las Vegas which expanded rapidly over the past few years and Vancouver, where plenty of new rooms were built for the Olympics. We also predict that London is likely to follow a similar pattern just before and after the Olympics in 2012 as they’ve already added thousands of room and plan to add thousands more. So, be sure to pay attention when a city opens a new hotel or where new hotels might be being built.

How to book?

There are a number of ways to book a hotel room that include booking over the phone or through a travel agent, but the age of the internet has changed that. Nowadays, a lot of us book all travel arrangements online and use a variety of different websites to do that. One of the newest models for booking luxury holidays online, sometimes referred to as ‘secret hotels’ or ‘Hot Rates’, offers 4-star hotels at 2-star prices. With this model you book a room without knowing the hotel’s name. Everything else, such as amenities, star rating, approximate location and user recommendations are disclosed. It is a way for hotels to sell hotel rooms that would otherwise remain unsold and offer a deep discount without alienating their existing customers. The best savings can be found 2-4 weeks before travel at larger city destinations, but sometimes great deals will be available even few months out. Definitely worth a try the next time you are planning your next city break.

When to book?

We all know that avoiding ‘peak season’ can help us save money, but often we don’t realize how much. Holding travel plans from the popular vacation months of August/September to the less popular month of October can help keep hundreds in your pocket. For example we are currently seeing some fantastic deals on four star hotels in Berlin (Ł37 a night) around that time.

Also, cities that rely on a lot of business travellers often offer big discounts when these travellers are not working – therefore places like Paris, Toronto and Chicago tend to have great deals over the holidays that happen throughout the year. So, by picking those time periods to visit these big cities, you might be able to hit some of the biggest sales of the year and instead of giving your money to hotels – give it to the department stores.

Have a good trip!

Fulvia Montresor is Senior Director at Hotwire.com.

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

Enjoy a luxury trip on a shoestring is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

· 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 Chčvre 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 Mańanitas, 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, Săo 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

The results of the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2011 are in… is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

According to the survey, the most expensive hotel is the Maia Luxury Resort & Spa located in Anse Louis in the Seychelles. Here, a night in a standard double room will cost you $2455. For that price, you not only get a room with a separate living space. In addition, you can plunge into a private infinity pool (one for each villa), and moreover, take advantage of a 24-hour private butler service. What else could you ask for?

If that’s a little expensive for you, here are the rest of the top 10:

1. Maia Luxury Resort & Spa (Anse Louis, Seychelles) $2455
2. Hotel Pitrizza (Porto Cervo, Italy) $2335
3. Royal Mansour (Marrakech, Morocco) $2327
4. Hotel Cala di Volpe (Porto Cervo, Italy) $2286
5. Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa (Lithgow, Austalia) $2119
6. Hotel Romazzino (Porto Cervo, Italy) $2115
7. La Réserve (Ramatuelle, France) $2112
8. Jumeirah Dhevanafushi (Maldives) $2106
9. Saffire Freycinet (Cole’s Bay, Australia) $1576
10. Gora Kadan (Gora, Japan) $1459

Rankings were based on the average price of a standard double room in the period from June through August 2011.

The world’s most expensive hotel is in the Seychelles is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

1. New York City, NY, USA
2. Paris, France
3. London, UK
4. Rome, Italy
5. Barcelona, Spain
6. Las Vegas, NV, USA
7. San Francisco, CA, USA
8. Venice, Italy
9. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
10. Florence, Italy

Tripadvisor users’ 10 favourite cities is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

Australia

OK, so for many it may be on the other side of the world and a long flight away but there must be something special about this vast island nation that keeps honeymooners going back. An abundance of natural landmarks and incredible geography assert Australia as one of the most diverse and beautiful countries in the world. From the rugged coast of Southern Victoria to the iconic Eastern seaboard; the rainforests of Cape Tribulation to the world famous Great Barrier Reef there is something here to do and to see to cater for every budget and taste. Whether you want a romantic and intimate honeymoon on a remote lodge or immerse yourself into the hustle and bustle of a metropolis like Sydney or Melbourne the only difficulty will be making you mind up

Thailand

An eclectic South East Asian country, travelling across Thailand feels like navigating through four or five different countries rolled into one. Saturated with ancient culture and heritage but with an eye to the future this is a place that promises both striking modernity and fascinating tradition. The beaches and more remote islands of the south are amongst the most pristine in all of Eastern Asia and there is no where quite like Bangkok with its bustling markets, street stalls and boutiques. Getting off the beaten track with a trek up north is a truly rewarding adventure, uncovering the beauty of the highlands and forests.

Barbados

Synonymous with glamour, luxury and romance Barbados is a community that seems to seamlessly encapsulate both breathless energy and vitality whilst enjoying an entirely laid back and relaxed outlook on life. This is an island fringed with white sand beaches and lapped by perennially warm and crystal clear waters. The real star of the show though is the people who with that irrepressible Caribbean charm will make you feel right at home. Bridgetown is the vibrant capital and home to many of the best restaurants, bars and lounges that can be found on the island; leaving without trying some delicious fresh caught seafood would be a crime!

South Africa

A land known as the rainbow nation, South Africa certainly is alive with colour. Diverse and delightful from the whale migration around the Southern Coast to the Cape Winelands and the beautiful garden route; the industrial history of Kimberley or the beaches of Durban there is always a new way to experience South Africa. That is of course not to mention two of its biggest draws; the shining cosmopolitan centre of Cape Town with its culture, history and contemporary undertones and the rugged wilderness of the Kruger National Park, offering one of the most complete and rich safari experiences in Africa. Although some may not consider a safari as the ideal honeymoon experience, for those in search of something a little different and a little exciting or adventurous; a safari is the ideal complement.

Cyprus

The island of romance; it was said that Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love was born on this isle and what more fitting place could there have been. From the expansive beauty of the Trodos Mountain range to the harbour and beautiful beaches of Paphos. This is an island that can serve up romance and exhilaration in equal measures with lazy summer days, relaxing walks and remote retreats juxtaposed against lively night spots, bustling markets and water sports galore. A trip wouldn’t be complete without an excursion to the Tomb of the Kings, an ancient necropolis that provides an insight into the glorious days of ancient Greece.

Seychelles

Already the site of one royal honeymoon this year it is no wonder that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge chose this group of granitic islands to spend their post-nuptial break. A sprinkling of small, private islands along with the larger centres of Mahé and Praslin offer honeymooners the ideal choice of intimate hideaways.  Whether you are looking for colonial opulence or contemporary eco-luxury the numerous resorts and hotels established across the archipelago contribute toward a portfolio of properties that is second to none. Enjoy swimming, diving, romantic boat trips and bathing in the year round sunshine.

St Lucia

Voted at the World Travel Awards 7 of the last 10 years as the leading honeymoon destination there certainly is something quite unique about this tiny Caribbean colony. St Lucia epitomises bare foot chic and with its countless pristine beaches, rich and dense interior and stunning coral reefs it really does offer picture postcard bliss. A hike to the grand Piton Mountains is certainly worthwhile with its stunning views out across the Western side of the island and out over the Caribbean Sea. A select group of luxury resorts have been thoughtfully established around St Lucia, boasting all of the qualities one might expect of a five star retreat but all the while conscious of their responsibilities to maintain and nurture the island’s fragile ecology.

Maldives

Back to the Indian Ocean and one of the world’s most remote and spectacular island groups. The Maldives lay just south west of the Indian peninsula and are made up of a double chain of 26 atolls. One of the world’s true last remaining paradises the Maldives appeal to honeymooners looking to really get away from it all; to escape to a dream-like world where they can relax and enjoy each other’s company framed by spectacular and unspoiled panoramas. Island hopping is a particularly popular activity around the Maldives and provides couples with the chance to explore the depths of this multi-faceted community.

Bali

A jewel of the Indonesian archipelago Bali was once considered as a backpacker’s paradise but today this pint sized island is regarded as one of the most exclusive honeymoon destinations in the world. Famed for their intelligence, artistic flair and general conviviality the Balinese are amongst the friendliest people you are likely to meet. Exploring the rich tapestry of the Hindu religion that defines the island there are a number of spectacular temples and shrines that simply must be explored. Along with its many pristine beaches and remote retreats Bali offers honeymooners the ultimate combination of cultural and natural wonder.

Tahiti

Nestled in the Pacific Ocean, Tahiti and her islands must be considered as one of the most remote and secluded honeymoon destinations in the world. Tahiti promises complete abandonment and the chance to leave behind the stresses and strains of the modern world. Lose yourselves in this unspoiled island paradise with its hauntingly blue waters, stunning lagoons, colourful reefs and deserted beaches. Whether you choose to stay on Tahiti itself or head to one of its other iconic sister islands such as Moorea or Bora Bora you will be greeted with the same warm hospitality and quality service that has become a trademark of the luxury properties established here by the likes of Hilton, Four Seasons, Intercontinental, Legends and Sofitel; a rather formidable inventory indeed.

James Bell is a Director of Turquoise Holidays.

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

The top 10 honeymoon destinations for couples in a muddle is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

Oxford Street, London

Perhaps the UK’s most well-known shopping destination, Oxford Street stretches for 1.5 miles from one end to the other and boasts around 550 shops and restaurants meaning there’s plenty of opportunity to splash the cash.

As a general rule, shops here are open from 10:00 to 19:00 Monday to Saturday, except on Thursdays where they close an hour later. Sunday trading times are 12:00 to 18:00, although opening hours may vary on a store-by-store basis.

Oxford Street is probably best known for its large department stores, which you’ll find in the section of the road running between Marble Arch and Oxford Circus, including branches of John Lewis, Selfridges and Debenhams.

You’ll also find dozens of more specialised retailers, so if you’re looking to pick up some jewellery, you might want to visit the street’s Ernest Jones and Fossil stores. For the latest in men’s and women’s fashion, Gap, French Connection and American Apparel are just some of the places you can visit.

Many of the outlets located here are regarded as their respective organisation’s flagship store and as such are often used to host launches and special promotions, with celebrities usually making appearances at these events, particularly for the switching on of the annual Christmas light display. However, you’ll also find A-listers hitting the high street by themselves, with P Diddy and Beyonce among those seen here.

If you need to take a break from scouring the shops for bargains, there’s a whole host of restaurants, bars and cafes on the street that serve refreshments, ranging from fast food establishments like KFC to upmarket Italian eatery Carluccio’s. There are also a number of London hotels in the area so you can base your stay on Oxford Street should you wish to do so.

Fifth Avenue, New York

As one of New York’s longest thoroughfares, Fifth Avenue in Manhattan is for many shopaholics a dream destination to indulge in some retail therapy.

As far as Fifth Avenue goes, it’s between 49th Street and 60th Street where you really go to town with making some purchases. It is here that you’ll find a selection of high-end boutiques and luxury department stores.

Among the many iconic shops you’ll come across is the flagship Saks Fifth Avenue branch. Open since 1924 and selling a wide range of men’s and women’s clothing made by leading European and American designers, this is a great place to upgrade your wardrobe, with DKNY, Burberry and Diane von Furstenberg just some of the brands sold.

If it’s designer jewellery and watches you are after, the branches of Cartier, Omega and Tiffany & Co are sure to delight. Numerous mainstream retailers also have stores here, including Abercrombie & Fitch and H&M.

Sports fans, meanwhile, may want to visit the NBA Store. Here, you’ll be able to pick up jerseys and memorabilia relating to the world’s leading basketball league.

Many outlets stay open as late as 22:00, although times vary between individual stores.

There is much more to Fifth Avenue than just great shopping, as the intersection with 59th Street forms the south-west tip of Central Park. Continue heading northwards and you’ll come to the stretch of the road known as Museum Mile which is home to several cultural institutions, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Avenue Montaigne, Paris

For fantastic shopping in continental Europe, there is perhaps nowhere like Paris’ Avenue Montaigne.

Situated between the bank of the Seine and Champs Elysees Avenue, here you’ll find a selection of high-end stores from some of the leading names in French and international fashion.

The street is some 600 metres long and there are dozens of shops you’ll be able to visit, including branches of Prada, Dior and Chanel. You can also purchase men’s and women’s clothing at the Versace and Ralph Lauren stores, so it should come as little surprise that this is a great place to head to if you want to dress like an A-lister.

Who knows, you may even spot some celebrities browsing the aisles next to you! Katie Holmes and Victoria Beckham have both been spotted at the Giorgio Armani store here.

Via Monte Napoleone, Milan

Located in the heart of Milan’s fashion district, Via Monte Napoleone is known throughout Italy as being a fantastic place to buy watches, jewellery and clothing from the world’s leading high-end brands.

There’s the chance to browse more than 200 stores here, from Marc Jacobs and Rolex to Borsalino and Audemars Piguet.

Ladies looking for the perfect pair of shoes to complement a new outfit may well be in luck. Ugg, Jimmy Choo and Christian Louboutin are just some of the names to have stores here.

Via Monte Napoleone is also a great place to get some designer homewares, as it is home to branches of Royal Doulton, Wedgwood and Waterford Crystal, so there’s bound to be something for you.

Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills

Visit the stores found along Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills and you’ll be shopping in what is commonly regarded as one of the best places for luxury shopping in the world.

Stretching for three blocks along the Californian city, there are around 100 chic stores, boutiques and hotels for you to visit, with Juicy Couture, Dolce & Gabbana and Guess among the many high-end fashion outlets where you can splash some cash.

Breguet and Battaglia are just two places where you’ll be able to buy beautiful watches and jewellery, while the four-floor Rodeo Collection mall has interior design stores and spa and beauty centres. While enjoying a spot of retail therapy along Rodeo Drive, you could well bump into some of the world’s most famous actors and musicians.

Britney Spears, Leonardo DiCaprio and Danny DeVito are just a selection of the stars to have been seen browsing the shops and boutiques here, so well as walking away with some new clothes you might even be able to get a couple of autographs too!

Those who visit any of the above shopping streets will be able to not only shop but explore the wonderful sights throughout the cities in which they are found. The only problem is whether you’ll be able to tear yourself away from the shops long enough to see what else the cities have to offer!

Robin Sutherland is the Managing Director at TravelSupermarket.

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

5 of the world’s most famous luxury shopping streets is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

This one is a personal favourite of mine as we spent a few nights of our honeymoon here.  A truly incredible location with a restaurant that overlooks one of the finest locations in Africa.

2. Skyline Restaurant – Queenstown, New Zealand

A stunning location with great staff and lovely views.

3. Sirocco Restaurant – Bangkok, Thailand

This is the world’s tallest al fresco restaurant, located at the Lebua State Tower.

4. Sierra Mar – California, USA

Perched above the ocean, the views from Sierra Mar are simply breathtaking. (Fast forward to 2 minutes in the video and watch from there…)

5. Al Mahara – Dubai, UAE

Relax and admire the aquarium at this underwater restaurant which has over 70 species of fish.

5 of the best restaurant views in the world is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

Dubai is the only place in the world to boast two One&Only resorts; the distinctive Royal Mirage featuring three separate accommodation wings (The Palace, Arabian Court & the Residence & Spa) and The Palm located close to the Atlantis Resort. Having visited the former I can vouch for its elegance and understated, tasteful luxury. This is a very fine place to stay, not too stuffy – it’s unmistakeably classy but not in an inaccessible way. The lawns and grounds are immaculate, the pool areas beckon you in, and the Arabian styled guest rooms are lavish in just the right measure.

The Palm is a relatively new offering, and is clearly visible across the water from the Beach Bar & Grill located at the Royal Mirage. When I visited it was in was in the final throws of completion awaiting a soft opening, but 12 months on from that its flourishing with rave reviews. No surprises there.

Leaving the Middle East for the Indian Ocean (as many honeymooners do for an ideal twin centre holiday) you will find a One&Only presence at both Mauritius and the Maldives.  One&Only Maldives at Reethi Rah is one of the best loved of all of their resorts, and a true favourite on dedicated luxury hotel review sites like Been, as well as Tripadvisor. Located in the North Male Atoll this multi award winning all-villa resort symbolises casual elegance to a tee. An international tennis academy, modern Japanese sushi restaurant and minimum villa size of 135 square metres are just a few of the things you can expect to enjoy whilst here.

Their highly coveted offering in Mauritius is equally as impressive, the slightly larger, French styled Le Saint Géran which features 175 rooms and suites set in a 60 acre site on the east coast of the island. A dedicated kite surfing centre, an Alain Ducasse acclaimed 3 Michelin starred restaurant, and a Gary Player designed golf course are key elements of this fine escape.

That leaves three hotels to tell you about, the newest of which I shall leave until last.  If anyone has seen the movie Casino Royale, you will have also seen the One&Only Ocean Club in the Bahamas which was featured for filming of this hugely successful British film.  An outstanding address in the Bahamas, Ocean Club is set on perfectly manicured grounds which overlook the stunning golden sand beach and sparkling Atlantic Ocean from an enviable position. Bond checks into an Ocean View Suite here, but he spends too much time playing poker and not enough time exploring the Balinese spa concept, pools and water sports of this luxury retreat.

A resort that should rank highly on anybody’s list of  ’must visits’ is Palmilla at Los Cabos in Mexico. All the charm and attraction of Mexico combined with the ambiance of an O&O resort makes for an intriguing combination. Highlights here include the Charlie Trotter restaurant C and the Jack Nicklaus designed golf course which features breath taking ocean vistas and no less than 27 holes. There’s also a romantic chapel for weddings and events.

The portfolio is completed in South Africa at One&Only Cape Town, a marvellous city hotel graced by Gordon Ramsay’s Maze Restaurant and the largest rooms and suites to be found in the ‘Mother City’. All rooms look out to the harbour and Table Mountain and guests must try to take a trip to the Spa Island for a massage with a difference. By night you can sample some of the finest wines of the country in the 5,000 bottle Wine Loft which acts as a Sommelier led walk in wine list for guests dining at Maze.

To summise, each of One&Only’s seven hotels are uniquely different, embodying facets of the culture of their location, whilst being underpinned by seemingly effortless service, tasteful decor and resounding helping of style with substance.

Carole Booth is Commercial Director at Destinology.

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

In profile: One&Only Luxury Resorts is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

1. Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines provide an experience that can be crafted the way you like it. An option of Dom Perignon or Krug champagne is a great start and combined with food how and when I want it makes this the food-lovers perfect flight! All at once or in courses, you can treat yourself to the way you wish to be served. Combine this with a huge seat that flattens into a bed, oversized pillows and a Givenchy sleep suit and you’ve got yourself one pleasurable plane ride.

2. Qatar Airways

The seats on Qatar Airways aren’t quite as long as Singapore Airlines, but nevertheless match them in quality and comfort. What makes the first class experience so enjoyable with this airline is the separate terminal that includes a Jacuzzi and sauna, as well as fine dining restaurants and a medical centre. You’ll want to arrive ahead of schedule to enjoy what you’ve paid for.

3. Malaysia Airlines

This airline comes in third due to the quality of service. If you’re looking for the royal treatment, you will get it with Malaysia Airlines. Like the other airlines, seats become flat beds and you get a personal TV screen. Enjoy the luxury of some exceptional Malaysian cuisine that’s served with a smile.

4. Cathay Pacific

There’s two things that make this a luxurious experience – outstanding food and massage chairs! Each seat sits behind panels that create a suite-like feel. The super long chairs not only feature built-in massagers, but also lay down as flat beds. The food on Cathay Pacific is exceptional and probably the best of the bunch. If you’re looking for a good in-flight meal, add these guys to your consideration list.

6. Thai Airways

While not as comfortable as some of the other airlines, Thai Airways gives you the complete experience, from personal concierges that checks you in and fast tracks you through customs and immigration to a choice of 22 entrees that can be pre-ordered for your flight. Once again they provide 180-degree flat beds and a spa in their exclusive first-class lounge.

The experience of flying first-class changes your opinion of flying altogether. No longer are you sitting in cramped, economy-class seats but enjoying the luxury of a bed, exceptional service, exclusive lounges and exquisite meals. Once you go first-class, it’s hard to fly any other way.

Richard Greenwood is the Marketing Director at Flight Centre Australia.

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

The 5 best first class airlines is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

One of the oldest pools to rank with the world’s best is the saltwater pool at the Hotel du Cap Eden-Roc on France’s Cote d’Azur. For more than a century this resort and its pool has been an A-list hangout for the Cannes crowd. The legendary saltwater pool was built in 1870, blasted into the edge of a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Ocean. It was redesigned in 1992 to give it a sharp infinity edge.

The ocean-side spillover pool at the Spa Village in Malaysia’s Pangkor Laut Resort is a work of art. Bougainvillea and frangipani leaves float in jade green water of the pool which blends perfectly with the colour of the sea beyond. Located on a privately owned tropical island, surrounded by white sandy beaches fringed by graceful palms, the resort and its iconic pool is an oasis of beauty and calm.

If you like the idea of a private pool then you’ll love the Banyan Tree Seychelles Resort, located on the island of Mahe in the Indian Ocean. Each of its sixty private villas has at least one pool, some have two, overlooking the ocean and a beach that has been named one of the top ten beaches in the world. The resorts main pool is an elevated infinity pool that juts out above the beach, seemingly floating on the sea itself, while waves crash on the rocks below.

Other notable infinity pools can be found around the globe. Perched on a cliff side overlooking the Indonesian Sea is the Amankila, Bali Resort’s signature three tiered infinity pool. In New Zealand, the Blanket Bay resort on the South Island sports a lakeside infinity pool that gives you the illusion that you are swimming in a forest. At the Perivolas Resort in Greece you can swim in an infinity pool poised on a cliff high above the Aegean Sea with breathtaking panoramic views.

For a truly unique pool experience, the Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa Resort in Grindavík, Iceland is second to none. The star attraction of this world renowned spa is its naturally heated geothermal seawater pool. Surrounded by snow capped mountains, the lagoon is five thousand square meters and holds six million liters of healing, mineral rich waters.

Not all of the great pools are in seaside resorts. There are some exceptional urban pools from the neoclassical pool, resplendent in Louis XIV gilt, in the Ritz hotel in Paris to the pool in The Berkeley, with views of London’s Hyde Park. Considered one of the most spectacular urban pools, the pool on the forty-seventh floor of Tokyo’s Park Hyatt Hotel looks out over the city below with the majestic Mount Fuji as a backdrop. Set in a soaring glass atrium, the view from the pool is nothing short of stunning as night falls and Tokyo glitters.

These are but a few of the best pools the world has to offer. The epitome of chic, they are a great place to relax and pamper yourself in settings you won’t soon forget.

Nisha Gautam is Senior Editor at Kissimmee Hotels.

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The world’s best pools is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog

So you have decided to book one of the cheap cruises to the Mexican Riviera and it will be the first time for you. By the time the ship sails from Los Angeles you are completely pumped up. The next seven days are total paradise with Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan being two of the stops on the ships itinerary. Between stops the ship activities include many Broadway style shows and all the food that you can possibly eat.

After hearing all the hoopla about the cheap cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean and you decide to take one yourself. As the ship sails away from Rome (Civitavecchia) you realize just how lucky you are, especially since you will be visiting Katakolon, Athens (Piraeus) Greece, Izmir and Alexandria over the next few days. Your ship’s itinerary includes ten days of pure vacation bliss and think to yourself will you have the time to do everything you want to. At this point the only thing you should be considering is how many pictures you should be taking.

Paradise does not get much better than this and with all the cheap cruises around you can now afford to take your family on a cruise and visit the Hawaiian islands all at the same time. Your first stop is an all day event in Kailua Kona, followed by two days and one night in Lahaina Maui and you end it all in Honolulu. Its like bringing your own accommodation and food with you to the islands.

Cheap cruises do not necessarily have to be short cruises as you will see if you hop aboard a 16 night cruise from Singapore to Sydney Australia. In addition to all the special events that are usually held on-board the cruise line, you can enjoy many days tanning by the pool or sipping drinks under the stars with that special someone. Ports of call could include Benoa, Darwin, Yorkeys Knob, Brisbane and of course wrapping it all up in Sydney, Australia. You will be the envy of all your friends both near and far.

If 16 days seems a bit long, never fear a shorter one to New Zealand may be all that you need to experience cruising heaven. With stops to Christchurch (Lyttleton), Napier, Auckland and Bay of Islands this is just one of many more cheap cruises that could be available to you. Yes cruising can be a fun experience for everyone, chocked full of activities and an endless supply of ports to visit.

Aaron Whitlock is a Senior Business Executive at Cruise About.

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Cruising around the globe is a post from A Luxury Travel Blog