Paradores are luxury hotels in converted-convents, monasteries and castles – a new trend in luxury tourism in Spain, and other Spanish-speaking countries like Puerto Rico. Most of Spain’s Paradores are actually state-owned, and the ‘Paradores Spain’ chain was founded by King Alfonso XIII and the Marques de Valle-Inclan in the 1930s as a means to […]
Asia is a vast and beautiful continent, one which is veiled with hidden gems to entice the curious traveller. And for the adventurous honeymooning couple, Asia is full of romance and surprise. But to get the best out of your honeymoon, skip the executive suite in your favourite luxury hotel chain – and opt for […]
The city of Athens has found its self- confidence and creativity and remaps itself among the most popular city breaks in the world. The old and the new blends in harmoniously offering visitors novel pleasures: from the Acropolis museum to upcoming neighborhoods full of art studios and hip restaurants and shops. New designers, artists and scholars […]
What do you think of when you think of luxury? A grand hotel and butler service? Yes, indeed – but such luxury has a time and a place. At other times getting away from the textbook description and finding a place others haven’t or stumbling across a gem where you least expect is as good if not […]
With a scale of luxury rarely found outside of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Russia is a country that revels in unabashed indulgence. From sipping champagne on an ultra-modern balcony overlooking the mighty Moscow Kremlin, to nibbling caviar in a palatial St. Petersburg ballroom – Russia has endless opportunities for a quality, luxurious experience. I’ve picked out […]
Flanked by the Kalahari Desert and Magaliesberg mountain range, South Africa’s North West province is famous for its rugged hills and vast plains of untamed African bushveld. This malaria-free region is within easy reach of Johannesburg and makes a convenient escape from the city. And with its sophisticated collection of luxury accommodation, there is no […]
Just before Christmas we decided to have a short getaway in North Yorkshire, staying at the Ox Pasture Hall Hotel, a small country hotel just a few miles out of Scarborough. Not only was this my first time in this part of the country – despite it being only about 3 hours’ drive from home […]
Three of Chicago’s luxury hotels are situated on the Magnificent Mile’s prime location of Water Tower Place. They have world class spas and attractive swimming pools plus excellent restaurants. They are located above or across the street from some Chicago’s finest shopping venues and two acclaimed theaters: the LookingGlass Theater and the Broadway Playhouse. The […]
You may have already read the post ‘3 unique yet luxurious experiences in Marrakech‘ which details a handful of the opportunites that came about as a result of attending PURE Life Experiences, a great event that caters specifically for many of the smaller operators within the luxury travel industry. During my time at the conference, […]
When attending PURE Life Experiences in Marrakech last year, I knew I’d be in for some pleasant surprises. My last visit to the city had been 25 years ago and I was aware there had been many changes, particularly with respect to Marrakech’s luxury offering and with the introduction of a number of high end […]
Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, Canada. The township of Banff is part of the National Park and is strictly maintained to keep its wild and pristine essence, which is off the charts gorgeous. The town is nestled in the mountains, which […]
Suite name: The Royal Penthouse, Corinthia Hotel London Location: London, UK Size of accommodation: 395 sq m Cost per night: £18,000 + VAT per night What makes it special: The panoramic view of London and the walk-in wine cellar. Standing on the roof terrace, taking in the unique 180-degree panoramic view of London, residents may believe they are monarchs of […]
Sri Lanka is an island with lots to offer; a rich history, a vibrant culture, beaches, natural beauty and an amazing cuisine that is not often found outside of the country. Previously stricken with problems from a long running civil war and then the devastation caused by the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami, tourism in Sri Lanka […]
Do you wish you could upgrade your travel, for example fly first class instead of economy class, access airport lounges, be upgraded more often at hotels, and just generally enjoy a more luxurious vacation? Here are my top tips for how to upgrade your travel: 1. Plan ahead One of the most expensive mistakes some […]
Forget the interminable operas of Richard Wagner, the cinematic Lord of the Rings cycle feels like it has gone on for ever. Mercifully the Tolkien-fest has reached its conclusion (the ones with furry feet and pointy ears won) so New Zealand can revert from being a cinematic backdrop – albeit a fabulously beautiful one – […]
There are plenty of beautiful luxury ski chalets to choose from in the Alps; in fact, you’re pretty much spoiled for choice and if you want to go one better and you have a healthy budget you could spend a couple of weeks living like royalty; but if it’s something a little different you’re looking […]
