Located amongst the pristine landscape of Bhutan, this traditional Buddhist land creates a harmonious union with the natural environment, allowing visitors to discover one of the most peaceful places on earth. Recently declared one of the worlds Top Resorts in Asia by Travel + Leisure magazine, Amankora is a journey waiting to be experienced.

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Amankora, combining the word “aman” (or “peace” in Sanskrit) with “pilgrimage” and “journey” in Dzongkha, marks a unique entry into a secluded kingdom – the pristine Himalayan landscape and preserved culture have fascinated travelers from around the world.

With five nature-linked lodges, all creatively unique and sympathetically balanced to their environment, guests will have the perfect space to completely let go and relax. Each suite features naturally rammed-earth walls, wood paneled interiors and stunning landscape views.

Guests are encouraged to discover the beauty of the area on foot. Treks can be arranged over the mountain trails where wild goats, langur monkeys and the occasional leopard may be sighted. Spiritual visitors are offered a humbling and enriching experience with the first monastery established in Bhutan nearby as well as the 7th century temple of Kyichu Lhakhang.

Amankora is perfect for a luxury spa getaway offering traditional plant and herb-based therapies emphasizing a path towards healing. Through smell, touch, hearing, sight and taste, the Amankora Spa strives to capture a sensation which is wholly Bhutanese.

The experience at Amankora will resonate with visitors long after they have left. The natural beauty and ancient culture of the tranquil Buddhist kingdom is something visitors will never forget.

Hidden away from the busy hustle and bustle of the Moroccan streets in Marrakech is an exotic hidden gem, the Riad Noir D’Ivoire. Created by a worldly Franco-English couple, this luxury boutique hotel offers hospitality that is simply magical.

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Each room in the nine room guest house is individually named and decorated with a mixture of Moroccan handicrafts, plush arm chairs, Syrian Furniture inlaid with mother-of-pearl and all of them have working fireplaces. All rooms look over an exquisite tranquil inner courtyard that features a small plunge pool, banana trees and birds. It’s easy to spend your days at Noir D’Ivoire without going anywhere.

A perfect start to your morning is to enjoy breakfast on their roof terrace. There is so much to see and discover in the surrounding area and the resort is always more than happy to assist you in planning your days.

After visiting the busy surrounding streets of Bab Doukkala, the perfect way to relax and recharge is at their spa and hammam, complete with reflexology and Yon-Ka products

At the Riad Noir D’Ivoire the cuisine is exceptional. The talented chef does traditional Moroccan dished and has a sophisticated tack on North African classics. The dining room is welcoming with an ambient scene decorated with Moroccan antiques, enhanced by wonderful service.

Guest after guest who has stayed at this resort boast an unforgettable “heaven on earth” experience. The Riad Noir D’Ivoire is truly one of the best hotels in Marrakech. We have featured Riad Noir D’Ivoire in our feature on summer travel to Marrakech:  Marrakech is the Perfect Travel Destination for Summer Shopping, Festivals and Site Seeing

Harbourair has improved seaplane service from Malta to Gozo this year to two round trip flights per day, which means it’s easier to transfer between the two Mediterranean Islands in the Maltese archipelago!

Now, visitors can leave Malta for Gozo at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and can leave Gozo for Malta at 10:30 a.m. and 4:40 p.m. daily.

You can get more information about seaplane service between Malta and Gozo by visiting Harbourair’s website.

Getting to Gozo by seaplane is the fastest (and most scenic) way to arrive, in our opinion.

Floatplanes can accommodate about 14 passengers, and have specially modified bubble windows that are excellent for site seeing and photography of the gorgeous azure water between the two islands.

Gozo hasn’t always been the easiest place to get to, so this news is pretty exciting for anyone who wants to travel to these gorgeous islands this year. Summer is actually the perfect time to visit the islands in the Maltese archipelago because the weather is absolutely perfect and the beaches are stunning.

If you’re planning on traveling to Malta or Gozo this year, we recommend staying at the following hotels. With unparalleled service, you’ll love the luxurious experience you’ll receive.

Hotels in Malta:

The Palace, Malta:

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This five-star boutique hotel offers genuine Malta hospitality! It’s situated amongst the tight warren of distinguished Maltese town houses and trendy urban villas that make up Silema. In the area, you’ll find trendy cafes, the business center and great sites to see.

You’ll love the classic design of The Palace, Malta, and we also think you’ll get a big kick out of the news themed restaurants here as well. “The Talk of the Town Café” is found right next to an 18th century building and is “the” place to be in Silema. “The Tabloid” offers contemporary Mediterranean cuisine and the TemptAsian Lounge Bar (on the 8th floor) has the best views of the city and the harbor.

Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz Gozo:

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A perfect hotel for spa goers and vacationers seeking a relaxing holiday, Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz Gozo is an intimate resort in Gozo that’s surrounded by 30,000 square meters of gardens. Talk about peaceful!

The resort complex has been purposely built to blend into the yellow limestone in the area, so as not to impede the natural beauty of its surroundings.

There are quite a few good room and suite options available, so you’re sure to find a room type that suites your needs. Choose from suites, junior suites, premium rooms, deluxe rooms and presidential suites. The rooms are well designed to keep guests cool when it’s hot outside – perfect for a comfortable night’s sleep.

For the ultimate relaxation experience, take in a day at the spa – a true gem at this resort. They offer a wide variety of treatments including Ayurveda, Marine and herbal care, massages, Balneo baths and Vichy water shows.

Le Meridien St. Julians:

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This hotel boasts one of the best views in Malta. Le Meridien St. Julians is located on the grounds of a 19th Century Maltese Villa on the waterfront of the gorgeous Balluta Bay in Malta. And, you can’t beat the location of Le Meridien as well. Right off the promenade (and only 200 meters from the centre of St. Julians), guests are walking distance of authentic cafes, bars, restaurants, clubs and the main shopping area of town.

Our favourite rooms at this hotel are the executive rooms. They are located on the top floors of the hotel and have the best views of Balluta Bay and the Mediterranean Sea.

Le Meridien St. Julians has quite a few restaurants to choose from, too. Scirocco Restaurant serves exotic and spicy food, Villa Brasserie specializes in French cuisine, and Ku de Ta Lounge and Bar has excellent food and drinks – and a great view of the water. Ku de Ta Lounge and Bar is the place to go if you want to sit outside and watch the sun set.

The Xara Palace:

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This boutique hotel in Mdina, Malta, has been meticulously restored while being upgraded and brought up to date with all of today’s modern amenities. The hotel is part of the medieval bastions surrounding Mdina (also known as “the silent city”).

All 17 rooms at The Xara Palace have been decorated with period pieces and original paintings. The Grand Master’s suite overlooks the external courtyard to the hotel and is, in our opinion, the best suite in the hotel.

Furnishings in this room include a dining table for six people, a sitting room, a writing table, an antique chest of drawers and other old lamps and original artwork.

For a great view and a fabulous dinner, head up to the de Mondion Roof Top restaurant!

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Prague is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities – and there sure isn’t a better time to visit this gorgeous city than the summer and fall. Luckily for travelers to Prague, one of its premier luxury hotels is having a special promotion that makes it much more affordable to stay there!

The Charles Bridge, Prague Castle Area and the Old Town – you won’t find a more beautiful city in Europe than Prague. And, the best part about visiting Prague now are the fabulous summer deals that can make a luxury holiday here more affordable.

From now until September 30, 2009, guests can stay for three nights for the price of two at Kempinski Hybernska Prague – one of Prague’s best hotels. The package includes free wireless internet, complimentary entry to the hotel’s gym, shoe shine service and a daily international newspaper.

This gorgeous hotel has only 75 rooms and suites – ensuring that guests get the kind of privacy and service they deserve. The hotel is located in the heart of the city and is close to all of Prague’s major sites (the Powder Tower, Municipal House, etc.), which is perfect for vacationers who are in to sightseeing.

One of the things that make this hotel exceptionally unique is its private garden. It’s the perfect place to enjoy some peace and quiet. You’ll be able to bask in the shade and avoid the hustle and bustle of other tourists in this sanctuary.

And, for people who love old, historical buildings, you will certainly be impressed with the Kempinski Hybernska Prague. Located in a meticulously renovated 17th century building, guests get the best of both worlds: old world charm and new world facilities.

After an exciting day of touring Prague and enjoying the sites, enjoy the service and exceptional cuisine n Le Grill restaurant. This restaurant at the hotel specializes in international cuisine, and has a private dining corner that can seat 10 guests for those of us who want a more intimate experience.

What a way to live it up in Prague!

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We sent our regional VP of the Americas, Monica Laurin, to Hotel Hana – Maui. She tells all about this stunning resort in Hawaii!

Traveling the road to Hana is a unique experience.  What’s on the other side of this Maui Island?  You must travel 600 curves and 54 bridges to find out.  Definitely something everyone should experience.  Stop to watch the scenery, waterfalls, private black rock beaches and bamboo forests.  Stop for a local, freshly-made smoothie, or to take in the breathtaking seascape views off the side of the road.

When I arrived at Hotel Hana – Maui it was a breath of fresh air. I was greeted by a sea of friendly faces, mango juice and leis.  The staff here was ready for my arrival and already at my service.

This hotel was recently featured on the Maui episode of the Bachelorette – and it’s not hard to see why!

The lobby of the hotel is a breezy, open space.  I could hear the tinkling of teaspoons on saucers in the background while we checked in, and I could smell the ocean as it was only steps away.

The tranquil fountain in the middle of the lobby was filled with flowers, which were hand-picked every morning off the trees.  In fact, I got to see how the flowers were placed there. A beautiful employee, in a floral dress, picked the flowers. Then, taking off her sandals to walk on the black stones through the water to the fountain, she put them in the water one by one.
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Hawaii is one of the most romantic places in the world, and it’s known for being a popular destination for weddings, honeymoons and romantic excursions. So we aren’t surprised that Jillian made her Big Decision on Hawaii’s Big Island yesterday, finally choosing Ed to marry!

As usual, the producers of ABC’s “The Bachelorette” have outdone themselves. This season’s finale was possibly one of the most beautifully shot episodes we’ve seen to date. And, we guess it has something to do with picking the best venues and most scenic hotels in Hawaii for the filming.

In yesterday’s season finale of the Bachelorette, Jillian and her two final bachelors – Ed Swiderski and Kiptyn Locke – went all over Big Island. The dates involved an aerial tour of Kilauea volcano and a private BBQ beside a remote Hilo waterfall in addition to exploring a gorgeous black sand beach!

The couples continued their dates with romantic dinner and “alone time” at several of Hawaii’s best hotels, including the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii, on the legendary Kohala Coast (the popular northwest side of the island).

The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii is a luxurious 32-acre resort that’s perfect for romantic holidays, family trips and golfers and spa goers.

Crews spent time filming in the 3,736 square foot Fairmont Gold Presidential Suite, which is the nicest suite in the hotel!

Jillian and her bachelor also enjoyed their meal prepared by Sushi Chef Norio Yamamoto who personally prepared items such as tuna tataki and spicy tuna roll for their private dinner.

Read about other luxury hotels in Hawaii that appeared on the Bachelorette, and other hotels in Whistler that appeared on the Bachelorette.

Beautiful beaches, great weather, plenty of sun shine, wildlife and culture are plentiful on the island nation of Sri Lanka. And now that the conflict is over in Sri Lanka, and travel advisories are being lifted or relaxed, it is re-emerging as an exciting, safe travel destination in Asia.

Of course, the best part about vacationing in a peaceful Sri Lanka is that it can be much more financially reasonable than other destinations in Asia: a very important factor in today’s economic climate!

If you’re traveling to Sri Lanka, the safest places to visit are in the south and western parts of the country. We give you our top three luxury hotels in Sri Lanka below:

The Regency at The Galle Face Hotel:

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Recently refurbished, this luxury hotel in Colombo boasts amazing views of the ocean and provides guests with a lot of value. Each of the 80 rooms at the Regency at The Galle Face Hotel caters to both business and leisure travelers and are well equipped for all of your needs.

Super luxury suites include living and dining areas and are equipped with relaxing Jacuzzis (either placed in the room or on the balcony overlooking the Ocean).

What a way to capitalize on the view!

The good news for people who book this hotel through Kiwi Collection is that they get special VIP treatment due to our special relationship with the hotel. So, guests get complimentary room upgrades when available, the general manager’s VIP amenity, a bottle of sparkling wine, complimentary breakfast, early check-in and late check-out, a welcome drink for two, a welcome letter from the GM, a box of chocolates and a complimentary voucher for the Regency Tea Lounge.

Amangalla:

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Located in the picturesque town of Galle, Amangalla is a tiny boutique hotel that’s made up of buildings that are over 400 years old! The hotel features seven bedrooms which are right next to the reception area on the ground level of the Middle Street Wing.

Six chambers are located in the Church Street Wing and face the Fort ramparts. The hotel has four Garden Wing chambers and eight suites.

For a special occasion, ask for the Garden House – which is situated within the resort gardens. This two-story house features a private terrace and balcony.

Galle is an extremely interesting place to visit. Not only was it historically the main port on the island, it is full of old colonial architecture and is a good destination for lovers of history.

Guests who book this hotel through Kiwi Collection can take full advantage of our special relationship with Amangalla. Guests will receive a complimentary room upgrade when available and a bottle of champagne upon their arrival!

Amanwella:

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Amanwella is perfect base camp if you want to go on an exciting safari in Sri Lanka, or go diving in the Indian Ocean. This boutique hotel is close enough for guests to take day trips to Sri Lanka’s Uda Walawe or Bundala National Parks.

At only 30 rooms, you are sure to get an intimate experience here, and you won’t find a nicer setting for kicking back and relaxing. Amanwella sits amongst a mature coconut grove and is right on the beach. The suites at these hotels open on both sides, letting in cooling sea breezes (which is perfect for staying comfortable on a hot day).

Other great features of this hotel are its 45-metre infinity pool and two large sun terraces with sun loungers.

Guests who book this hotel through Kiwi Collection not only get the best available rate for the hotel, but also some added value during their stay, such as a complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability), and a complimentary bottle of Champaign upon arrival.

Click on the links below to learn about other safe hotels in Sri Lanka:
CASA Colombo
The Fortress
Ceylon Tea Trails
Kahanda Kanda
The River House

Singapore celebrates National Day on Sunday August 9, 2009. If you’re going to be in town, you’ll get to see fireworks, parades and all sorts of National Day events.

Event Details for the 2009 National Day in Singapore:

• National Day in Singapore is on August 9, 2009.
• The Floating Platform at Marina Bay is this year’s venue for the parade and show.
• This year’s parade starts at 6 p.m.
• People who don’t have tickets to see the eents can catch the military contigents marching through the City Hall area (the Padang at St. Andrew’s Road).

National Day 2009 Fireworks in Singapore:

• Fireworks will launch near the Floating Platform at Marina Bay at the end of the parade and show between 8 and 8:30 p.m. If the weather is bad, the parade and fireworks will be rescheduled to take place on August 15, 2009.
• Best places to view the fireworks are the Merlion Park or One Fullerton area.
• Best places to photograph the Singapore 2009 National Day fireworks are: The Esplanade Bridge, Marina Boulevard, the waterfront promenade outside the Esplanade Theatre.

Want to View the Fireworks from a Luxury Hotel in Singapore?

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Some of the best places to see the fireworks for National Day 2009 in Singapore are Singapore’s top hotels. Not only are they perfectly situated to give guests a great view of the fireworks, but they’re the most luxurious places in town and make for an excellent place to celebrate such an important day!

By far, the best luxury hotel in Singapore to view the fireworks from is the Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore.

Known for its spectacular views, the festivities take place on a platform right on front of the hotel, so you won’t get a better seat!

In fact, this grand hotel is having a few special promotions just in time for the festivities.

First, guests should be aware that if they stay for two consecutive nights, the second night is 50% off!

Also, the best room to see the fireworks from is the Deluxe Marina Bay View Room as this room will face the parade and fireworks. The room rate for is $1200 SGD (or $830 US). Guests can check in on either August 8 or August 9 to take advantage of the promotion.

Alternatively, the Ritz-Carlton, Millenia is offering a package on August 1, which is the date of the full dress rehearsal for Singapore’s National Day. See the fireworks and parade early by staying in a Deluxe marina Bay View Room for $400 SGD ($280 US). The package includes breakfast for two adults and two kids too!

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Close to the water, you can get a great view of the Fireworks from The Fullerton Hotel as well on Singapore’s National Day. A historical, grand hotel right in the heart of Singapore, The Fullerton is a perfect base camp for any luxury traveler, either wanting a great holiday in Singapore or a good business trip.

The Fullerton is basically close to everything: great shopping, great nightlife, the business district, you name it! And, of course, it’s close to the water, which is why it will be an excellent spot to see the fireworks.

Guests who book the Fullerton Hotel in Singapore through Kiwi Collection can take advantage of our special relationship with them. Get a complimentary upgrade to the next room category (excluding suites) when available!

Guests can also enjoy a special package offered only to guests who book the hotel through Kiwi Collection. Stay for one night in a Heritage Room and enjoy an American buffet breakfast for two at Town Restaurant, a one way arrival limousine transfer and Straits Club access for two!

We recently featured a hotel review of the Fullerton on the Jetsetter!

This weekend Steve Wynn, the man who helped reinvent Las Vegas, met up with Charlie Rose of 60 Minutes for an interview about his spectacular success.

Steve Wynn is best known for being credited in expanding the Las Vegas Strip with his widely recognized luxury resorts such as the Wynn Las Vegas and Encore.

The Interview:

Watch CBS Videos Online

His Las Vegas Hotels in our Collection:

Wynn Las Vegas:

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Separating itself from other luxury casino resorts, Wynn Las Vegas has been designed from the “inside out” and exciting the senses of each and every guest.

Rooms and Suites at the resort are designed to feel like a stylish apartment each with wall to wall, floor to ceiling windows creating unparalleled views of the sparkling Las Vegas Strip. Accompanying the lush interiors guests can be treated to an in-room massage, manicure and pedicure. In addition, hair styling services are available.

The cuisine at the resort is unsurpassed, with 22 unique restaurants to choose from featuring cuisine prepared by numerous award winning chefs. It makes it nearly impossible to visit without an awe inspiring meal.
Wynn resort offers a complete experience for any visitor including an exclusive golf resort, luxury spa and salon and Le Reve the signature entertainment show to the resort.

Encore at Wynn Las Vegas:

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Located next door to the Wynn, Encore at Wynn Las Vegas is a distinct destination with its own repertoire of accommodations, culinary offerings and leisure activities. And with over 2000 suits that offer a comfortable residential setting, it’s the perfect home away from home…..only better.

For those who love to shop ,The Encore Esplanade offers an array of stores with a modern attitude and a contemporary style. With exclusive boutiques in fashion and home décor, it’s the best in chic sophisticated shopping.

Encore also takes night life to the next level at its new “XS”. The poolside ambiance mingles with the nightclub’s decadent vibe to create an oasis at Las Vegas’ most exclusive address.

Whatever your reason to come to Las Vegas, be it spending time at the casino, enjoying the shows, or just trying to get away from it all, both the Wynn Las Vegas and Encore will take your luxury experiences to a new level.

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Located off the coast of Africa, east of Madagascar is the Island Nation of Mauritius. Virtually undiscovered by North Americans, it is one of the most luxury getaways in the Indian Ocean. Being one of the most developed of the Mascarene Islands, Mauritius’ biggest asset is the relaxed charm of its warm and welcoming people. In part two of our series we go to the southern part of the island, seeking out the best places to visit.

Once landing on the island of Mauritius you may want to escape the hustle and bustle of Port-Louis and head south towards St. Felix for a less developed and more authentic experience on the island. The south coast is not typical to the post card illustrations of Mauritius and contains the most interesting places for people who are interested in French colonial history. Full of rich vegetation and beautiful rocky cliffs, views are simply breathtaking. It is unlike any other beach experience.

If you are looking for the perfect getaway and space to relax, Mauritius’ most luxurious hotels has to be Shanti Ananda Maurice. Spread over 36 acres of tropical gardens, with breathtaking views of the hills and the Indian Ocean with its coral reefs, the resort is located in the south of Mauritius at St. Felix.

The goal of Shanti Ananda Maurice is to offer a place for you to explore your inner self and go beyond the simple indulging of the body and senses, creating a truly holistic experience. Their spa features therapies for total renewal dedicated to restoring balance and harmonizing energies. Ayruvedic Treatments and Oriental Therapy are just some of the services they offer.

To ensure total privacy each of the spacious suites and villas at Shanti Ananda Maurice feature beach front locations overlooking the sea.

To completely wind down, many of the activities offered include traditional Hatha yoga classes as well as traditional mediation, perfect for bringing together mind, body and spirit.

Shanti Ananda Maurice also features wonderful dining experiences for all pallets. With signature cuisines prepared by internationally acclaimed chefs at their restaurant Da Maurizio, they also have a lounge bar Red Ginger that offers both alfresco and indoor options and has one of the largest selections of wine available.

And if that wasn’t inticing enough, from now until October 15th, Shanti Ananda Maurice is offering a 50% discount on their Bed & Breakfast rates!

Also, the longer you stay the greater discount you receive with their “Free Nights on Spa Packages”. The hotel is also offering a special incentive of 7 nights for the price of 5, 10 nights for the price of 7 or 14 nights for the price of 10. Valid on all spa packages also until October 15th 2009.

If you are planning our first trip to the island of Mauritius, you will soon discover why it is considered by so many people to be a paradise!

Although it’s true that Frankfurt Germany has the reputation for being the center of business and finance, there’s more to this great city than its reputation suggests. Beneath the surface, Frankfurt thrives on the arts and is full of international and local culture. For the person who loves luxury travel, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to feel luxurious. And with hotel rooms starting at only 100 Euros, Kiwi Collection features some of the best luxury hotels in Frankfurt!

In the heart of Europe, Frankfurt is a buzzing metropolis rich in beautiful museums and a serious night life. Business savvy or not, this city is sure to please every traveler. Visits to traditional taverns (like the Apfelweinwirtschaft Adolf Wagner), or a stroll though the famous Palmengarten – known worldwide for its beautiful gardens – are sure to spice up any getaway.

Check out some of the great hotels in Frankfurt that we have in our luxury collection with room rates that start at only 100 Euros. You’ll be able to have your luxury hotel and your Riesling too with prices this good!

The Pure:

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Centrally located in Frankfurt this hotel was erected from a 19th century loft and completely renovated to express ease, clearness and transparency. Beautifully designed, the hotel is no more than a background attraction to the guests’ eyes, while happenings around will be focused.

At The Pure, the rooms are nice and open with bright material and an extraordinary atmosphere, its wonderful place to spoil the soul.

Roomers:

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Just minutes from the River Main, Roomers is in the heart of the city’s business metropolis and a triumph of modern hotel design.  Decorated with cool dark furnishings, glass and concrete, it creates an ambiance of exclusivity and ultimate modern luxury.

Roomers will also impress you with their restaurant and a bar spread over five impeccably designed stories. The restaurant serves delicious local dishes using fresh ingredients accompanied by an extensive wine list.

Gerbermuehle:

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This newly renovated 14th century estate was built on the picturesque spot on the left bank of the River Main. Complete with an exquisite summer garden in the bustling city makes it a great escape to chill out with friends over a fresh local draught beer.

At the Gerbermuhle, style and aesthetics blend, merging tradition and innovation to create a completely unique environment ideal for perfect nights and rewarding days.

Each room is decorated with exclusive materials to create its own distinctive individually and character. This hotel is the perfect getaway in the heart of Frankfurt.

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Spotted: seven stunning and exquisitely dressed young guys and girls scheming, shopping, and of course, gossiping. Where, you ask? At The New York Palace Hotel –the home to much of the notoriety taking place on the set of the hit series “Gossip Girl.”

While most of us settle into our fishbowls on a regular work day, Blake Lively, Ed Westwick, Penn Badgley, and Leighton Meester are among the lucky few who get to call this luxury hotel in New York City their office.

The New York Palace Hotel is the exquisite stage and host to the drama that unfolds on “Gossip Girl.” The hotel’s timeless courtyard, trendy GiLT Bar, The Madison Room, and The Library have all been featured on the series.

During the first season of the show that offers an inside view to the lifestyles of the rich and spoiled, Serena van der Woodsen (played by Blake Lively) and her family lived in one the four Triplex Suites at The New Palace Hotel. Each of the signature Triplex Suites has an exclusive, spacious rooftop terrace with spectacular views of the Big Apple’s skyline and feature wood-burning fireplaces, all in the heart of Manhattan no less.

As the rumors flow and the drama unravels, Gossip Girl’s characters sip martinis at GiLT Bar and elect The New York Palace Hotel as their choice location for wedding celebrations and controversial fashion shows. Which comes to no surprise as this New York luxury hotel offers the finest in colonial grandeur and modern affluence around.

The Palace’s 805 rooms and 88 suites are renowned for their unrivaled character, breathtaking views, and spaciousness.

The New York Palace Hotel is now part of the Dorchester Collection and is known for adding a modern 55-story tower to the historic landmark, Villard Mansion. The hotel is known for its excellent service and being able to cater to international guests with ease.

If you want to feel like the characters on Gossip Girl, be sure to stay for an extended period in the tower. It’s perfect for longer stays and comes with free internet.

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If you’re heading to Toronto anytime in the near future, you must consider staying at Park Hyatt Toronto, sitting right in the heart of the fashionably chic Yorkville area. Rising high amongst the 700 upscale shops, restaurants, unique art galleries and renowned museums downtown, Park Hyatt Toronto was the perfect place from which to base myself on my first trip to this great city.

Boasting 336 spacious guest rooms and suites, this hotel  in Toronto offers a warm, residential feel with genuine hospitality. I think 3 or 4 people greeted me before I had even reached the elevator! Impressive. And it was clear upon entering my room that staying here was going to make my trip.

My room was incredibly cozy and spacious and was complete with a comfortable king size bed, appointed with fine Italian linens, and a mountain of pillows.

Lush bathrobes, cozy slippers and Davies Gate amenities were provided in the generously sized bathroom. The main living area also offered a little sitting area perfect for lounging and late night chats.

Although my room was fabulous, the rooms really worth mentioning are the hotel’s Pink and Blue Rooms designed by the brilliant Canadian designer (one of my favorites), Sarah Richardson. These one-of-a-kind gems were created for Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer awareness respectively.

They are absolutely stunning.

The Pink Room is a whirlwind of pink; the perfect place to celebrate a girls’ night out, or a Mother/Daughter getaway. The Blue Suite features the color blue in everything, from the paintings to the linens. It’s popular with both men and women.

One morning, I had the pleasure of enjoying a delicious brunch at the delightful Annona Restaurant. This stylish Yorkville restaurant serves incredible gourmet international cuisine throughout the entire day in a seriously charming setting.

My time in Toronto was quite busy, otherwise I would have liked to check out the legendary Rooftop Lounge as well. Rooftop Lounge is a favorite among locals and visiting celebrities from what I hear. This is especially true during the Toronto International Film Festival when it hosts 10 days straight of partying! This is the city’s only rooftop bar and patio and offers extraordinary views of Toronto’s skyline, so I can see why it’s so appealing.

For those looking to escape the urban world of Toronto for an hour or two, or more… the Stillwater Spa is Toronto’s #1 spa according to many – a 10, 000 square foot urban oasis right in the hotel.

This outstanding spa features 17 treatment rooms, saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools, a full-service salon an aqua pool and spa boutique. This spa is one of one four 4 Diamond spas in Canada and offers so many indulgent treatments.

I really enjoyed my stay at the Park Hyatt Toronto and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Toronto this year!

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Ever wanted to be in the midst of the hustle bustle of NYC during the day, and experience New England in the evening? Or did you want to experience serenity as well as attend a business meeting in Manhattan? If yes, then your destination is Homestead Inn in Greenwich, CT.

A mere 25 minute drive from Manhattan, or a 37 minute train ride into Grand Central (pretty much the time it would take you to travel from uptown to downtown Manhattan), Greenwich is where the upper crust of society lives. Right from Movie stars to Wall Street millionaires, this town is known as having the highest number of millionaires per thousand. This place exudes New England culture and history and is one of the six states that form New England.

During my recent holiday to NYC, I had a chance to experience Homestead Inn ~ Thomas Henkelmann.

Theresa and Thomas Henkelmann own the hotel. Also, Thomas is the Executive Chef of the well renowned restaurant, named after him as well.

The 18-room Inn is a fusion of themes, fabrics, colors and styles, tastefully put together by Theresa Henkelmann which she has collected through her worldwide travels.

Art pieces from Thailand, France, Morocco, Bali, and various other countries, adorn the chambers. The rooms are not themed, however they are an awesome mix of cultures & colors blending beautifully and giving each room an identity of their own.

The beds are so comfortable, I absolutely felt like I was sleeping on a cloud. The staff members are warm and friendly and definitely anticipate guest needs, thereby making sure guests are relaxed and comfortable.

I was invited to experience the restaurant in the evening, and was completely blown away. Having an extensive background in the food and beverage industry, the restaurant surpassed my expectation.

The food was divine, the service was perfect and the wine was excellently paired.

We started off with a Duck Ravioli with Basil oil, followed by a cold asparagus soup with lobster meat, and finally scrambled eggs with truffle served in an egg shell, followed by the main course.

I ordered the Halibut filet with crisp potato scales, and then the last course was a peach tart. Truly a gastronomical roller coaster ride:  The flavors were delectable and clean, the textures perfect and the presentation of the food was different with each course creating a perfect synergy of tastes.

The restaurant has been awarded the 4 Mobil stars every year from 1999 and Chef Thomas Henkelmann was also awarded the title Relais Gourmands in 2002.  A stay at this property is incomplete without a meal or two at the restaurant.

I can go on and on about my stay and experience here, and will definitely go back again!

This place truly works for anyone who appreciates fine food and wine, a comfortable ambience, a good night’s sleep. I believe that this hotel is best enjoyed by people who would like to avoid the noises and traffic of the big city.

If you are mixing business, pleasure and relaxation, Homestead Inn is the place to go. In fact, it was recently featured in our article about vacationing in New England.

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Need a crib, a Blackberry charger, or just some extra hangers? What about those special touches for a birthday or anniversary? Ensuring that all of the little details and personalized touches are there can be a challenge at even the world’s most luxurious hotels – but one hotel in Illinois is making it a whole lot easier to get those needs met.

Hotel Arista is launching “My Arista,” a new web-based system which allows guests to personalize their visit to fit their preferences and needs. Using “My Arista,” guests tell Hotel Arista’s dedicated staff exactly which amenities and options they want during their stay, including the latest in electronics and exercise equipment, specialty bedding, and personalized touches for special occasions

“My Arista” allows guests the option to select an in-room Nintendo Wii, Wii Fit, treadmill, or exercise bike. Additionally, the program gives guests their choice of ten different pillows, including a hypo-allergenic pillow, the “Anti-Snore” (saves marriages), or the “Buckwheat,” which touts easing tension and reducing back pain.

For bedtime preparation, the new tech option offers books of poetry or philosophy, a yoga DVD or an iPod pre-programmed with soothing music.

Hotel Arista, located in Naperville, IL, is the state’s first hotel property to receive LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, and is also the recipient of a Four Diamond Award® in 2009 from the Automobile Association of America (AAA).

This eco-friendly hotel has 144 modern designed residential-style accommodations, as well as signature restaurant, SugarToad.

Hotel Arista artfully balances luxury with eco-friendliness by using 30% less water and 21% less energy than hotels of comparable size. All cleaning products are chemical-free, and abundant natural lighting contributes to the hotel’s energy savings. In development, the year-old property committed to recycling 70% of construction waste as well.