Hotels

When Anouska Hempel opened Blakes hotel in London in 1976, little did she know that she was at the vanguard of an idea that would burgeon into a full-blown trend. Hempel, a former Bond girl turned haute couturier, designed Blakes with its opulent English interiors to minor the luxurious silks of her society fashion collections. In doing so, she became the first fashion designer to diversify into hotel development.

Many followed in Hempel's footsteps. In the Eighties, French couturier Sonia Rykiel brought glamour to the Hotel Crillon in Paris. Mariuccia Mandelli and Aldo Pinto of ltalian label Krizia opened the K Club, an exclusive retreat on the Caribbean island of Barbuda. Mulberry and Diesel established hip hotels in the Nineties, while designers Ralph Lauren, John Rocha and Karl Lagerfeld brought their creative touches to hotel interiors. So prevalent and influential was the marriage of fashion and luxury lodging that the term "boutique hotel" was born.

The glitzy Palazzo Versace on Australia’s Gold Coast kickstarted the six-star new millennium, and other luxury fashion houses followed suit. Ferragamo now runs four hotels in Florence, Bulgari launched the lavish Bulgari Hotel in Milan last year and Armani recently announced major plans to develop 14 hotels in the next decade. The financing and partnerships behind such hotels is complex and undisclosed. Some designers fully own and operate their hotels; others enter into joint ventures and profit-sharing schemes with developers and hotel chains; a few simply franchise their brand name. Yet the vogue for fashion hotels has never been stronger. It has brought even the other hotels to adapt their standards in order to offer that kind of lavishness that haut-couture brings with it. Designers who worked for those hotels also worked for others that had nothing to do with the fashion market. In doing so it was created a proficient exchange that, at the end, has created a that luxury that inevitably, led to a new appellation. Welcome to the word of "hautel couture".

Old Bangkok Inn - Bangkok

If you like a hotel to be more like a home, then you'll love the Old Bangkok Inn. Located on Rajadamnern Avenue, smack in the middle of the Thai capital's historic quarter, this snug little property has just eight individually appointed rooms. Host Nantiya Tulyanond can't resist cozy touches such as daily homemade cakes and nightly pillow presents. And her son Joey has been known to lead impromptu tours around the major landmarks of the neighborhood, from the Democracy Monument to the gentrifying nightlife of Khao San Road. He's also the tech head responsible for installing a computer in every room and for setting up wi-fi Internet access throughout. There's even some family history behind the inn. It's actually a converted shophouse that was built on a plot granted to the Tulyanonds' ancestors by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). The land has been in the family now for seven generations, and as you would expect, plenty of care has been lavished on the building that stands on it. Rooms are simply but stylishly appointed with teak furniture, while the odd family heirloom and pieces of pottery hand-painted by Nantiya lend a homely feel.

Bathrooms feature toiletries custom blended according to one of four aromatic themes - lemongrass, jasmine, orchid and rice. Another pleasing touch is the Tulyanonds' commitment to the environment and the community: showers pump out solar-heated water and the inn's construction incorporates salvaged wood. Guests wanting to do more to save the world can make a donation at checkout to one of the animal or children's charities on the Tulyanonds' list—and the inn will match it.

Palazzo Viviani - near Rimini

In 1994 Italian fashion diva Alberta Ferretti opened PalazzoViviani in the medieval hilltop village of Castello di Montegridolfo, near the resort of Rimini on the Adriatic coast. The hotel was part of a project to restore the ruined palace and tiny walled village near Ferretti’s hometown Cattolica. Located in the revitalized palazzo and a more discreet lodge annex set in beautiful gardens, the historic 15-roorn hotel has furnishings and antiques that subtly echo Ferretti's signature delicate and romantic style. In 2003 Ferretti launched the more affordable 30-room Borgo degli Ulivi next door to the Viviani. She also designed the chic, minimalist Carducci 76 hotel, housed in a serene beachside villa in Cattolica and owned by her brother Massimo.

Asya - Boracay

The island’s newest and most stylish resort, recently opened its doors to provide a luxurious and cozy retreat for discriminating travelers wanting to experience all the island has to offer. Nestled in between Stations 2 and 3, Asya Boracay is a stone’s throw away from the hippest bars and restaurants, but within its walls one will find the ultimate in serenity, comfort, food, and service. The verdant surroundings transport the customer into the quintessential Asian tropical paradise, where lush greens quietly greet you with every step, and plush exterior furnishings create a distinctive sense of intimate luxury. Each of the thirty-one spacious rooms boasts of tastefully selected pieces, from the artworks to the furniture; and as if in anticipation of the needs of the guest, guests are given the option of checking-in in the comfort of your room as you enjoy a wide array of chilled drinks from its one-time complimentary mini-bar. Anticipating the needs of every guest is the foremost thrust of Asya Boracay. Need to change your flight? Schedule a spa treatment? Book an island tour? Asya’s complimentary concierge services efficiently organize your activities so all you really need to do is sit back and enjoy your vacation. The rooms are supplied with a complete array of room and bathroom amenities, so you need not worry about a forgotten toothbrush. You even get a free pair of rubber slippers and a beach bag so you don’t have to stain your own. Shuttle services are available upon request to take you from the resort to virtually any place in the island, from the hippest spas to the popular restaurants. Speaking of restaurants, one of the finest dining experiences in the island can be had at Asya’s very own in-house restaurant Travesia, headed by Chef De Patron Binggoy Remedios (of Dos Mestizos fame). Tasty ‘mestizo’ cuisine, featuring delectable Spanish-Filipino dishes led by their mouth-watering paellas, are sure to please even the most jaded palates. Whether you choose to revel in the resort’s serene surroundings, or party the weekend away in the nearby hotspots, Asya Boracay has everything the traveler needs for a complete Boracay experience.

Bulgari Hotel - Milan

Venerable Itatian jewelry and perfume house Bulgari opened this ‘refined yet lavish’ five-star-plus hotel in May, 2004. A joint venture with Marriott hotels' high-end Ritz-Carlton division, the 58-room hotel is set in a former convent in sprawling private gardens near the Quadrilatero d'Oro district and La Scala opera house. As well as providing the name, Bulgari chose the location, architect (Antonio Citterio), decor (boldly contemporary in black and gold), services (personal, shopping, spa, indoor pool) and restaurant. Ritz-Carlton took care of the construction and manages the hotel, though the Ritz-Carlton name is not used in the hotel and staff are reportedly instructed not to mention it. Bulgari's second hotel, a resort in Bali, opened at the end of the 2005; another six hotels are planned in New York, Paris, London, Miami, Tokyo and Los Angeles. Bulgari and Marriott are believed to be investing around $70 million each.

Bulgari Hotel - Bali

After the success of the Bulgari Hotel in Milan, inaugurated in 2004, it is opened now, on the coast of the Jimbaran Peninsula, near Uluwatu Temple, the new Bulgari Resort. Its 59 villas, laid near the Indian ocean, are built according to the canons of the balinese tradition architectural, each with a tent, a terrace and a private swimming pool, furnished with pieces of antiquaries but endowed with the comfort of the latest technological systems as well. The buildings are a triumph of stone, exotic woods and plotted handicraft. There are two restaurants: one prepares Balinese specialties and Indonesian served in an informal environment, the other proposes Italian cuisine dishes in an open and more elegant restaurant during the evening. If you want to relax, there are the terrace with the swimming pool, the tent for the meditation and the spa built as an ancient residence joglo. Villas from 860 Euro at night.

Palazzo Versace - Golden Coast

Donatella and Santo Versace took their unique vision to Queensand's Cold Coast when they opened an extravagant, 205-room, ‘six-star’ hotel and resort in 2000. Palazzo Versace was financed, built and managed by Australia and developer The Sunland Group, but the Versaces are responsible for its opulent design, featuring Grecian columns, mosaics, marble pillars, and huge crystal chandeliers. Guest rooms are styled in the rich fabrics, strong colors bold prints, and gold and gilt of the Versace Home collection. The hotel's main building is a cross between a Beverly Hills mansion and a sprawling Renaissance palace - by the sea. There are lagoon-style swimming pools, a spa, miles of long, white sand beaches and, of course, a Versace boutique. Other Versace-Sunland hotels were planned, but none have been announced so far.

Gallery Hotel Art - Florence

One of four hotels in Florence owned, designed and managed by upmarket Italian footwear brand Salvatore Ferragamo, the 74-room Gallery Hotel Art can be found in the heart of the historic city. The seek modern hotel is located on a tiny piazza just steps from the Ponte Vecchio and doubles as a contemporary art gallery. Its fashionable lounge bar is just about the only place to be seen in Florence. Rooms have tan leather headboards and are hung with studies of Florentine monuments. Nearby are the Ferragamo family's elegant Hotel Lungarno, which lies on the Arno river and opened in 1995; the Lungarno Suites, chic apartments and studios housed in a grand Tuscan palamm; and the more private Continentale, which opened in 2003. None carry the Ferragamo name - the family prefers to keep its hotel business separate, though most guests are aware of the connection. The flagship Ferragamo store is, naturally, just around the corner.

Charlton House – Somerset

Roger Saul, founder of the quintessential English country chic label Mulberry, may have sold his remaining shares in the business in September 2004, but he and his wife Monty still own this elegant country house hotel near Bath. Opened in 1997 as a logical extension of the brand's accessories, luggage and home furnishing collections, the romantic, seventeenth-century, Georgian-fronted house is dressed in Mulberry's signature tweeds, tartans and checks, accented by shades of burgundy and gold. The 17 guest rooms have four-poster beds; the Mulberry restaurant is Michelin-starred. Upgraded at the end of 2004, Charlton House now has eight additional bedrooms and a new Monty's Spa, which provides pampering with handmade beauty products. The grounds contain a trout lake and croquet lawn. Nearby is the Mulberry factory outlet, which sells a large selection of the label's range at discounted prices.

Pelican Hotel - Miami

“Ten steps from the beach, miles away from ordinary”. This is the motto of the Pelican Hotel, owned by Renzo Rosso, president of hip Italian jeans and streetwear brand Diesel. The Art Deco hotel on Miami's happening South Beach has 30 themed rooms that complement the label's funky and edgy youth appeal - they range from Some Like It Wet to Best Whorehouse and Me Tarzan, You Vain. The quirky guest rooms and kitsch furnishings were created by Swedish interior decorator Magnus Ehrland, who sourced much of the furniture from local flea markets, antique shops and garage sales. There's also a restaurant, the Pelican Café, with a suitably see-and-be-seen terrace. Popular with visiting models, musicians and celebs, the hotel is still buzzing ten years after it opened, despite increased competition on the strip from hip hoteliers lan Schrager and Andre Balazs.

Casa Camper - Barcelona

The latest fashion brand to enter the hotel sector is hip Spanish footwear label Camper. Opened in January by Camper's founders, the Fluxa family, who have owned and run hotels in Spain and the Caribbean in the past, the 25-room hotel is the first to carry the Camper name, and aims to reflect the brand's core values: style, comfort, affordability and respect for the environment. Located near the new Museum of Modern Art in the trendy area of El Raval, the hotel has been designed by Spanish interiors star Fernando Amat, who owns Barcelona's stylish Vincon furniture shop and has worked on several Camper retail outlets. FoodBALL, a health-conscious fast-food restaurant also owned by the Fluxas, is just around the comer. Further Camper hotels are planned.

The Victoria Falls Hotel - Victoria

This legendary hotel is situated on a world heritage site overlooking the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World. Established in 1904, and recently redecorated, this gracious colonial-style hotel is set in lush tropical gardens and epitomizes the romance of grand travel, offering total relaxation. All suites and bedrooms are decorated in colonial style, are fully air-conditioned, and have satellite TV. The splendid Livingstone Room, for fine dining and dancing in the evenings. The Jungle Junction Summerhouse, for more a causal Buffet Breakfast, and dinner, with ethnic entertainment in the evenings. Stanley's Terrace overlooking the famous Victoria Falls Bridge, for snacks, luncheon, high tea, cocktails, and dinner under the stars. Two floodlit, all-weather tennis courts. Freshwater swimming pool. International 18-hole golf course nearby. Massage and Beauty Salon. Game viewing on foot or by vehicle. Elephant-back safaris, Zambezi River cruises, white-water rafting, canoe safaris, vintage steam train excursions, and bungee jumping.

Mallet Drive, P.O. Box 10 Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Banyan Tree Bangkok - Bangkok

With a style and character that reflects sophistication, Banyan Tree Bangkok exudes the old-world charm of Thailand with business and leisure facilities to suit its discerning guests. Set in the heart of the Central Business District, this gem is the tallest all-suite luxury hotel in Bangkok offering panoramic view of Bangkok overlooking the Chao Phraya River. Apart from its modern décor and renowned service, indulge in Bangkok’s first executive club with exclusive spa facilities to rejuvenate and relax. There are 8 outlets and also private dining: 1. Rom Sai – International Restaurant, 2. Saffron – Award-winning Sky Lounge and traditional Thai Restaurant, 3. Bai Yun – Award-winning Chinese Restaurant, 4. Vertigo - Award-winning Grill and Bar, 5. Lobby Lounge – Cocktails and Music, 6. Pool Bar, 7. Juice Bar, 8. Goodies – Light Meals and Home Bakery. Located on 21/F, equipped with modern equipment includes a full range of Magnum and Cybex machines and a full set of Ivanko free weights. Cardiovascular equipment includes Intertrack treadmills, life fitness bicycles and cross skiing, climbing step and rowing machines. Strength training equipment includes a bent leg abdominal board, a vertical bench and multi hip, rowing, seated leg curl, leg extension, arm curl, and lat pull down machines. In addition, our professional instructors conduct regular aerobic, yoga, Tae-Bo, ballroom dance classes and more.

21/100 South Sathon Road, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand

Karma Jimbaran - Bali

Designed by Grounds Kent architects, the property comprises an exclusive collection of private three and four-bedroom courtyard villas, which are set in walled tropical gardens each with their own pool, and for those seeking the ultimate in luxury there are three Grand Residences. The service levels at Karma Jimbaran rival the finest hotels in the world. The ‘Personal Preferences Programme’ ensures an entirely bespoke villa service, offering a choice of pillow types, CDs and DVDs, a shopping list that can be filled out prior to arrival and a tailor-made mini bar selection. In-villa dining is available around the clock, or personal Chefs can be booked for our clients wanting to truly hide away. En-suite bathrooms, a spacious lounge, large dining room and fully fitted SMEG kitchens are the major features. The living areas feature DVD/CD surround sound systems with flat screen televisions, satellite connections and Wireless broadband Internet access. Dine al fresco at di Mare restaurant in modern tasteful surroundings. Where the sound of flowing water mingles with the scent of the Frangipani trees, providing an air of tranquility that is rarely found amidst the hustle and bustle of modern day living. The cuisine at di Mare Restaurant is the brainchild of Raymond Saja, who joins Karma Jimbaran from Hotel Plaza Athénée in New York City where he led the culinary team for the last four years. It is Raymaond Sajas belief in maintaining purity and freshness through the use of the finest season-driven local ingredients, interspersed with foods and flavors from around the globe. Tailor-made mini bar and wine selections are the order of the day and in-villa dining is available around the clock. For those wanting a little more from their in villa dining experience personal Chefs are available on request. A full range of tours and sightseeing can be arranged from the resort. The nearby Nusa Dua golf course is world class. Boat cruises, Sailing and a full range of water sport activities can also be organized. Activities for children’s entertainment are available throughout the year with extra options being made available during peak holiday times. World renowned Chakra spa services are available in the privacy of your own villa.

JL. Four Seasons, Jimbaran, Bali 80362, Indonesia

Park Hyatt Tokyo - Tokyo

The inspiration and backdrop for the critically acclaimed film, Lost In Translation, Park Hyatt Tokyo is an elegant oasis of space and calm that offers spectacular views of Tokyo and the Kanto Plain all the way to Mount Fuji, from the top 14 floors of the 52-storey Shinjuku Park Tower. Conveniently located in the heart of Shinjuku, Tokyo's vibrant business and entertainment district, the hotel is approximately 90 minutes from Narita International Airport and close to Shinjuku Station, the city's major transportation hub with rail and subway access to anywhere in metropolitan Tokyo. Designed to feel more like a modern private residence than a hotel, Park Hyatt Tokyo's attention to detail extends to a range of specially commissioned works of art that are displayed throughout the hotel. The 177 rooms and suites are the most spacious hotel guest rooms in Tokyo, providing a serene retreat and an efficient private office with the latest amenities and high-tech communications. With a distinguished reputation for providing the ultimate in personal attention and services, Park Hyatt Tokyo also offers a wide range of excellent restaurants, each with a unique style, such as the dynamic New York Grill - voted #1 for the past five years in the Zagat Tokyo Survey - and the starkly beautiful Kozue, for Japanese cuisine. With extensive meeting and banquet facilities, the hotel can accommodate every type of event from small business meetings to large social gatherings. For the convenience of the business traveler in Tokyo, the hotel also has a full-service Business Centre, open 24 hours daily. Providing the ultimate cosmopolitan retreat, Club on the Park is Park Hyatt Tokyo's health and fitness sanctuary, providing luxurious spa and relaxation areas, a stunning indoor pool and an unparalleled range of state-of-the-art equipment in its gymnasium and aerobics studio with panoramic views. For the discriminating business and leisure traveler, Park Hyatt Tokyo is quite simply, one of the best hotels in the world.

Park Hyatt Tokyo, 3-7-1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 163-1055 Japan

Carlisle Bay - Antigua

Carlisle Bay introduces purity and thoughtful, contemporary luxury to the Caribbean – with a ravishing beach in a sweeping bay, a backdrop of tropical rainforest, two outstanding restaurants, an exceptional spa with pure products and a philosophy founded on wellbeing and generous service. There are 88 suites, from junior to three-bedroom, all spacious with cool, calm interiors and breathtaking ocean views. Sister hotel to the award-winning One Aldwych in London. Simply fabulous food. Indigo on the Beach serves delicious grills, seafood and great healthy options. East restaurant offers exciting Asian foods in a stunning contemporary setting. Three great bars. Enjoy in cool comfort – no fussy dress codes at Carlisle Bay. Nine tennis courts, large pool, state-of-the-art gymnasium, water sports including a dive center, sailing, windsurfing and kayaking – no jet-skis. Yoga/Pilates, sauna, chill-out rooms. Golf nearby.

Old Road, St. Mary’s, Antigua, West Indies
 

The Metropolitan - Bangkok

The Metropolitan, Bangkok, is the Thai capital's newest hotspot for those at the centre of the action. A cool and contemporary east-west aesthetic with modern Oriental accents is combined with award-winning cuisine, a holistic spa and Bangkok's chicest lounge bar. However, the Metropolitan, Bangkok, is also a place for the most demanding traveller who seeks not just style, but accurate service. Here, at this calming haven within the urban hubbub, experience COMO's belief in detail -and our meaningful promise of perfect respite from a busy day. Once a YWCA, The Metropolitan instantly entered Bangkok’s premier league of style hotels when it opened in 2004. It’s also one of the few hotels to successfully pull off the ‘Asian minimalism’ style that’s now de rigueur from Hong Kong to London. The staff wear Yohji Yamamoto, the business centre is full of Imac’s and white is the colour. The cavernous lobby is not somewhere to linger, but that’s unlikely to be a problem, as you won’t want to leave your room much. The rooms betray their YWCA origins insofar as they’re about twice the size of an average hotel room. Unlike in their previous life though, they now boast CD players, broadband connectivity and individual yoga mats for early morning sun salutations. Beautiful teak beds and selective use of Thai silk add warmth and style. Signature restaurant C’yan joins the fusion wave that is sweeping the city at the moment, but pulls it off more successfully than most. Created by Australian chef Amanda Gale, the seafood-heavy menu has strong Mediterranean and Moorish influences, which blend perfectly and playfully with Asian flavors. As in London, a stay in the hotel will guarantee you the privilege of buying a few expensive cocktails at The Met bar. In common with its British counterpart the Met attracts a crowd of the idle rich, C to A list celebs, bemused tourists alongside young expat and Thai media types. Despite its members only policy (highly unusual in Bangkok) the bar manages to avoid being overwhelmed by pretension and once you’re in the door, the friendly staff will offer faultless service irrespective of whether you released a new album last week. The design is faultless: several comfy sofas line the back wall, the bar is long with plenty of seating and there’s a minuscule dance floor tucked away at one end of the room. The cocktails aren’t amazing, but in a city that’s not renowned for its mixologists, they’re a cut above average. Its big selling point over many similar bars in the city, is that the music, although frequently provided by visiting international DJ’s, is played at a controlled volume, so unless you’re on the dance floor, it’s possible to hold a conversation. The one potential downside is the location: Sathorn Road is in the heart of Bangkok’s business district, which is obviously fine if that’s what you’re in town for. If not though, the lack of a skytrain or underground station within walking distance can necessitate some pretty slow taxi rides, especially around rush hour.

27 South Sathorn Road, Tungmahamek, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120, Thailand

Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort - Bora Bora

Secluded on Bora Bora's largest islet, the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa is the ideal romantic retreat. Facing one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world and the mystical Mount Otemanu, this resort perfectly blends with nature and offers elegantly appointed bungalows built in the pure Polynesian style. The bungalows are spread in three categories, Overwater, Beach with Jacuzzi and Garden with fresh water plunge pool. All 80 bungalows feature a ceiling fan, air conditioning, coffee/tea making facilities, mini bar, safety box, iron & ironing board, LCD satellite TV with DVD player, CD player and IDD telephone. The Tevairoa restaurant offers international dining with French-Polynesian flair along with themed buffet dining twice weekly. The Miki Miki restaurant serves poolside lunch. The Miki Miki also offers seasonal dining. The Taurearea Bar offers a relaxed evening atmosphere for enjoying a refreshing cocktail. 24-hour room service.Due to open in April 2006, the fully-appointed Manea Spa will offer massage, sauna, hammam, Jacuzzi and beauty treatments. Fitness room adjacent to the spa. Diving center and catamaran cruise. Freshwater swimming pool. Water sports. Volley ball and Bacci ball. Mini-golf and flood lit tennis court.

Motu Tevairoa, BP 169 Vaitape, 98730 Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Burj Al Arab - Dubai

A billowing, sail-shaped structure soaring 321 meters above the Arabian Gulf, Burj Al Arab is a dramatic tribute to the region's seafaring heritage. Combining the latest technology with a long-standing reputation of Arabian hospitality, the hotel symbolizes the very essence of Dubai. It embraces the best of the new alongside traditions of the past. Individual service and attention to detail are paramount, with a private reception area on each floor, as well as a butler service for every suite. Each suite features its own laptop notebook computer, fax machine, and printer. Burj Al Arab is setting new standards of luxury, service, and comfort on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. Six restaurants and lounges provide a variety of dining options, from an underwater seafood restaurant called Al Mahara (accessible by a three minute simulated submarine voyage), to the heights of Al Muntaha, located on the top level of the hotel. Other fine restaurants include Al Iwan, Bab Al Yam, and Sahn Eddar. The Assawan Spa & Health Club is located on the 18th floor, and its unique location allows guest to enjoy spectacular views from the pools, Jacuzzi, spas, therapy rooms, and aerobics workout studios.

Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Rambagh Palace - Jaipur

The stately beauty of the Rambagh Palace captures the grandeur and romance of a bygone era. Set amidst elegant historical gardens, this palace built by Maharaj Sawai Man Singh II of Jaipur, is now one of the leading hotels of the world. Every room and suite reflects a world of royalty with its exquisite antiques, rich tapestry and paintings from an era gone by. The hotel, which was once the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur, is just 11 km from the airport. Spread over 47 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the Rambagh Palace is centrally located, near the main shopping area and the historical monuments. The Suvarana Mahal which literally means the palace of gold, serves the choicest cuisine in a variety of styles, be it Continental, Chinese, Indian or Rajasthani. The Neel Mahal offers light meals 24 hours a day. The Polo Bar – rated one of the finest in the world is decorated with polo trophies won by the late Maharaja of Jaipur. Billiards, Badminton, Lawn Tennis, Squash, Table Tennis and a putting green. A jogging track and a large indoor swimming pool. A fitness centre with a sauna, steam bath and Jacuzzi. Golf & Horse riding can be arranged on request.

Bhawani Singh Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan

La Samanna - St. Martin

The island of St. Martin is a Caribbean paradise with a distinct European flavor on which, for 30 years, La Samanna has been its most luxurious flagship hotel with our unrivaled seclusion and unique style. Located only 15 minutes from Marigot, the capital of French St. Martin and 10 minutes from Princess Juliana International Airport we offer the best of both privacy and convenience for our guests. Our 81 luxurious guestrooms, suites, and villas are nestled amongst 55 tropical acres lining our pristine, crescent-shaped beach rated by many as among the best in the Caribbean. From the main building perched atop the cliffside to our beachfront accommodations, each are designed in a Mediterranean villa-style with white stucco walls and terracotta rooftops. The colorful walk along our villas is a botanical adventure pleasing all the senses with its fragrant aromas from labeled flora from around the world. One defining difference at La Samanna is that all of our guest accommodations are truly oceanfront. La Samanna’s renowned dining room, The Restaurant, has been claimed as one of the finest in the world not to mention one of the most romantic settings overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The wine cellar contains thousands of bottles of fine and rare vintages. The cuisine at La Samanna is a blend of French, Mediterranean and local island ingredients under the watchful eye of Chef Erwan Louaisil. Chef Louaisil, background includes 3- Star Michelin experience at La Tour d’Argent, Paris, Le Moulin de Mougins, French Riviera and Pierre Gagniere, St. Etienne plus terms of duty with Daniel and La Grenouille, New York. On the more casual side, a very special treat is to plan a lobster barbecue on the beach for lunch, or in the evening with flamed torches, and island music. The selection each morning at our breakfast buffet pleases guests from around the world while enjoying their coffee with a peaceful overlook of Baie Longue. The on-property activities included are an array of beach watersports, windsurfing, water skiing, kayaking and snorkeling equipment, for example. Use of three world class tennis courts...each with professional stadium lighting for night play, full access of the Fitness Center equipped with the latest Cybex training equipment and individual Cybex weights. A separate Pilate’s studio is available with a personal trainer totally unique to the Caribbean. Other activities include island-tours and scuba diving off of nearby smaller islands, yoga sessions, private boating trips to deserted islands with a Champagne picnic lunch. Any other activity your heart desires can be arranged. La Samanna offers the only full-service truly European spa in the Caribbean. Featuring a total of 8 treatment rooms surrounding a peaceful outdoor courtyard, Elysees boasts two hydro-therapy rooms, five indoor/outdoor massage rooms set in a serene rock garden with outdoor private showers and waterfall. All technicians are European-trained.

Baie Longue St. Martin, French West Indies
 

The Peninsula - Hong Kong

The Peninsula Hong Kong, a Hong Kong landmark and one of the world's legendary grand hotels, is conveniently located in the heart of Kowloon on Victoria Harbour. Consistently ranked as one of the top hotels in the world. The Peninsula offers stunning facilities, with rooms and suites featuring Hong Kong's most spectacular views, together with state-of-the-art technological innovations, yet retaining The Peninsula's tradition of service excellence stretching over 70 years. Gaddi's French restaurant. Chesa, serving Swiss specialties. The Verandah, for casual dining. The Spring Moon Chinese restaurant. Felix on the rooftop, designed by Philippe Starck. Imasa Japanese restaurant. The Bar and the world- famous Lobby, for all-day dining and afternoon tea. The Peninsula Spa features a stunning indoor/outdoor swimming pool, fully equipped health club, beauty spa, and sun terrace overlooking Victoria Harbour.

Salisbury Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Amangalla Resort - Galle

For 140 years it has been the New Oriental Hotel, one of the hotels that belonged to “the Lusitanian” Ceylon myth. Before that, one of the most admired colonial palaces of Galle town, founded by the Portugueses in 1505 around one great citadel fortified and over an old long passage of commerce in the way of India. Today Amangalla Resort is called from the name of the place and from “aman”, that in Sanskrit means “peace”. As soon as reopened, Amangalla tells a season in which the luxury was not made of gold and carpets, but of high ceilings, great windows oriented towards the horizon, furniture of valuable wood, halls where large curtains filtered the tropical sun in order to receive the traveler. An atmosphere that has gone lost in the post-Tsunami restoration of 2005. In the 29 suite of Amangalla the new tendencies of the luxury-hotel are perceived. Also the modern cure of the design, without loosing the poetry of the past is felt. Only the snobbism and the rigorous absence of tv in the bedroom: in order to recall the fact that the silence is the only luxury to defend. The old Cingalese courtesy, then, emerges even in the smallest particular: the essences of cedar and frangipane from the room; the perfumed candles that dose the lights of the evening and prepare the palate for the culinary pleasures that taste of ginger and cinnamon; a well-being center dipped in the inner garden vegetation specialized in ayurve-da and yoga. One almost forgets that, outside from these walls, kilometers of spectacular coast are unrolled. And the beach of Unawatuna, two miles southwards from Galle. That is one of the most celebrated in the whole Sri Lanka, a long sand shore faced by an immense coralline reef with sea beds in great part still intact and unexplored (it is possible to find also several wrecks) and encircled on the shoulders by one curtain of palm groves. Attended up to now only by some hippies and adventurers, in 2005 it has been inserted in the list of the 12 most beautiful beaches in the world. Also the nature, after the devastating wave of Christmas 2004, it is now reborn with its shapes and its colors.

San Domenico Palace Hotel - Taormina

A former 14th century monastery, the San Domenico Palace Hotel offers views of incomparable beauty, as described by Goethe in 1767. Historical patrons such as Wagner and Guy de Maupassant found inspiration in the hotel's luxuriant gardens, where fragrant orange blossom, rose and jasmine bloom in striking contrast against the snow-capped backdrop of Mount Etna. Today, the unique atmosphere and unsurpassed hospitality continue to attract the most discerning clientele. Les Bougainvillèes for traditional Palace Cuisine. Principe Cerami for Gourmet Dining (seasonal). Pool Restaurant "Giardino dei Limoni" for seafood and sicilian specialties (lunch only, seasonal). Lounge Oratorio dei Frati for Light meals and Cocktails with live entertainment. 24 hrs Room Service. Outdoor heated Pool open from April to October, Fitness Corner, Health & Beauty Corner, Nearby Tennis and Golf facilities, fifteen minutes to beaches.

Piazza San Domenico 5, Taormina, Sicily 98039, Italy

The Palace of the Lost City at Sun City - Sun City

Deep in the heart of the North West Province, just one and one-half hours north of Johannesburg, lies a city surrounded by acres of untamed Africa. This truly magnificent Palace, so legend says, was built for a king by an ancient civilization from North of Africa, who made this idyllic valley their home until it was destroyed by an earthquake. Now fully restored, The Palace once again offers royal hospitality. All guest rooms are air-conditioned and offer mini-bars, electronic in-room safes, hairdryers, 24-hour in-room dining, international direct dial telephones, and televisions with cable TV. Resident guests at The Palace can bathe in a grand pool while sipping cocktails. Enjoy drinks at the gracious Tusk Bar. Dine in splendor in the Crystal Court or Villa del Palazzo, where fine cuisine is a treasured art. The Sun City leisure complex also offers a wide variety of over 15 restaurants to choose from. Two international championship golf courses -- Lost City Country Club and, home of the Nedbank Golf Challenge, the Gary Player Country Club. Fully equipped health club and spa, squash, tennis, full range of water sports, horse riding, mountain bike hiking trails. Big 5 game viewing, hot air ballooning, the Valley of the Waves water park.

P.O. Box 308, Sun City 0316, South Africa

The Scarlet Hotel - Singapore

The Scarlet hotel in Singapore is considered “lively and uninhibited”. Located in the historical part of the city, in the Chinatown neighborhood, the hotel occupies one series of houses, former shops dated 1868, and one original building dated 1924 in Art Deco, all joined one to the other in a delicious luxury hotel. The interiors are decorated with strong colors, black and gold, with scarlet embedded items, and the style is partially inspired to the Art Deco and partially to the fantasy of the decorations of Victoria's Secret. In fact the seductive atmosphere is of primary importance, amazing thing comparing to the respectable and composed Singapore. The restaurant too has a seductive name decidedly (Desire) not to mention the dishes that come indifferently served for one, two, or more persons, and have names like Skinny Dipping, G-String and Cuckold. Altogether the feeling is not different from which the London luxury hotels inspire, with a greater emphasis on the comfort and less on the visual surprise. The hotel has one private arena, called Flaunt, “Affectation”, one Jacuzzi in the open air, and one room for meetings called Sanctum.

33 Erskine Road Singapore, Singapore

The Fairmont Chateau Whistler Resort - Whistler

The spectacular Fairmont Chateau Whistler is the flagship hotel in North America’s premier resort, situated at the base of breathtaking Blackcomb Mountain. The hotel has consistently been awarded the Pinnacle and Gold Key Awards and offers quality, luxury and service in unparalleled mountain surroundings. The 550 luxurious guest accommodations, feature superior mountain views, down filled duvets and plush bathrobes. The Wildflower offers contemporary French cuisine using the finest in local & regional products. Portobello promotes a family friendly, bistro style restaurant and gourmet items to go. The Mallard Lounge nestled slopeside features magnificent views, live entertainment, cigar room and fireside cocktails. Located at the base of two world class mountains, the majestic-style chateau truly offers the ultimate all-season mountain resort experience. A stay here is a sportlover’s dream offering activities at your doorstep – skiing, mountain biking , tennis & hiking. Whistler also boasts 4 –18 hole golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, Robert Cupp, Arnold Palmer and the Chateau’s own, Robert Trent Jones Jr. course. The Spa at Chateau Whistler was recently awarded by Conde Naste as one of the top spa resorts in North America.

4599 Whistler Boulevard Whistler BC V0N 1B4 Canada

Taj Lake Palace - Udaipur
Over two and a half centuries ago, Maharana Jagat Singh II built a fairytale pleasure of white marble, shimmering afloat on the calm waters of Lake Pichola. His legacy, the Lake Palace, is considered to be one of the most romantic hotels in the world. Its elegant suites adorned with ornate glasswork, bohemian crystal lights and intricate miniature paintings remain a testimony to courtly love. Overlooking fountain pavilions, hilltop fortresses, awe-inspiring temples and medieval gardens, the Lake Palace is the gateway to Udaipur. Neel Kamal which faces the Lily pond, is where one savors Indian cuisine. The Jharokha is the 24-hour coffee shop facing the lake. Intricate glass mosaic work creates a royal ambience at Amrit Sagar, the bar. The Swimming Pool is the perfect retreat for rest and relaxation. A full-service Spa offering a range of aromatic treatments. A Pool table and Chess.

Lake Pichola, P.O. BOX NO. 5, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, 313001

Marina Mandarin Singapore - Singapore

True to its philosophy of providing Asian grace, warm and care, the Marina Mandarin Singapore is a world class, 5-star luxury hotel enhanced recently by a S$25 million remodeling, making it the only Leading Hotel of the World in Singapore. Designed by John Portman, this hotel offers one of the largest open atrium in South East Asia, stretching 21-storeys and allowing streams of natural light. Each of the 575 expansive rooms, including 20 luxury suites and the exclusive Meritus Club Floor, face into the atrium as well as to views across the Singapore River and the city skyline. Your senses come alive with the offering of dining experiences from such award-winning restaurants, such as Ristorante Bologna, serving the very best of Italian cuisine. Peach Blossoms, also a favorite, delights its patron with the very best in “dim sum” and traditional Cantonese fare from its authentic surrounds. With so much fresh produce, we have created Aqua Marine-specializing in the best of seafood from around the Asia-Pacific region. The accent is on freshness, flavored then with the best of local herbs and condiments, so as not to confuse the palate. Add to this a Sushi Bar and casual Wine Bar and the offering is complete! The Fitness Club & Pool are accessible 24-hours, offering the latest in elliptical equipment and cardio workouts plus various wellness treatments from St Gregory Spa. Adjacent is the swimming pool stretching to 25-metres in length – ideal for lap swimming. The Spa has seven treatment rooms, three of which can accommodate two persons; this sanctuary is the ideal place to massage away the stress of travel and business. Choose from traditional or aromatic treatments seven days a week.

6 Raffles Boulevard Marina Square, Singapore 039594

Casa Grande Hotel Resort & Spa - Guarujá
The Casa Grande Hotel Resort & Spa is located in one of the most exclusive spots of the Brazilian coast, the Guarujá Island, 44 miles from São Paulo city. Casa Grande Hotel Resort & Spa is a charming beachfront world - class resort set on the 3 mile long white - sand beach of Enseada. The authentic Brazilian colonial architecture is a Casa Grande Hotel Resort & Spa landmark. Splendid tropical gardens, excellent cuisine, full service spa, meeting and conference facilities, with authentic personalized service make the Casa Grande Hotel Resort & Spa the perfect choice for leisure or business traveler. Elegant main restaurant overlooking Enseada beach, featuring excellent contemporary cuisine with Mediterranean accent. Poolside Terrace Restaurant, serving continental and regional Brazilian cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner, buffet and à la carte. Thai Restaurant beachside pavilion with panoramic Enseada beach view, offering traditional Thai dishes and southeast Asia specialties. Colonial Café for casual dining. Music Lounge Bar, English Club atmosphere with wood burning fireplace and live piano music serves cocktails and light fare; 24 hour room service. Outdoor and indoor heated pool, tennis courts, sand soccer, volleyball court, sauna, games room, disco, playground, home theater, fitness, entertainment activities, monitored by hotel’s recreational team, allowed access to a private golf club.

Av. Miguel Stefno 1001 Guarujá, SP 11-440-530 Brazil

Le Favate - Ascea

This estate is dedicated to whom looks for a simple place, set apart and dipped in the nature. The main house has been well restructured in stone, is an estate extending with olive camps, chapel, mill with olive press and swimming pool. Rooms with fireplace and pavements in Italian ‘cotto’ complete all. Oil, wine and other products of the estate available in the shop.

Terradura, Ascea, Italy

Armani Luxury Hotels and Resorts

Giorgio Armani announced last year an ambitious $1 billion venture with Dubai-based EMAAR Properties, the largest property developer in the Middle East, to open ten hotels and four resorts in the next seven years. Armani wilt be responsible for all aspects of the design and amenities, primarily using items from its Armani Casa home collection. EMAAR will carry the costs of construction, development, and management. The collaboration is more of a royalties-based deal with Armani taking a share of the revenue, than a joint venture. The first hotel is due to open in 2007 in the soaring new Burj Dubai residential and commercial development in Dubai, and will have 250 suites, several restaurants and a spa. Further hotels in Milan, London, Paris, NewYork, Tokyo and Shanghai are also scheduled.

Renaissance Naples Mediterranean Hotel - Naples

‘Partenopeo’ spirit and rationalist architecture characterize the Renaissance Naples Mediterranean Hotel. Realized in the 1958 by Ferdinando Chiaromonte and Gio Ponti, through a recent restyling they have been recreated elegant atmospheres of a private residence: warm colors, solarium and Jacuzzi for relax, restaurant, and an enviable sight on the Gulf of Naples.

Via Nuova Ponte di Tappia 25, Naples, Italy

Cerruti Hotels

Fast-growing hotel operator Rezidor SAS, which owns chains such as Radisson SAS and Regent, recently launched its Hotel Cerruti ‘lifestyle brand’ in conjunction with the Italian fashion house. In a 15-year franchise deal Rezidor will retain full control of the properties, and will design and run the hotels; Cerruti is solely providing the value of its name. Aiming to create a more affordable brand of designer hotel, with room rates starting from €120, Rezidor will open the first Cerruti Hotel in Düsseldorf at the end of 2005, with a Kuwait property launching in 2006. The hotels will have Italian cafés, spa and fitness centers, swimming pools, and meetings and events facilities. Further hotels are planned in London, Brussels and Dubai.

Tenuta Villa Branca - Mercatale val di Pesa

Getting up among the vineyards: a unique experience that can be tried reserving one of the ancient colony houses of the estate Villa Branca, Mercatale Val di Pesa, Tuscany, Italy. For the hosts a menu of excursions on foot or by bicycle discovering the Tuscany hills, relaxing on the edges of the swimming pool, surrounded by the green. Most active clients can participate, season permitting, to the job of the company: from the grape harvest to the collection of the olives, from the vineyards pruning to the wine-making. The estate, property of the Branca family, famous for the Fernet liquor, produced in 120,000 a wine bottles per year: Chianti Classico, Kosher, Riserva, Vin Santo e extravergin oil, through the cold tecnique.

Mercatale Val di Pesa, Firenze, Italy

Harlingen - Harlingen

On the coasts of the Dutch Frisia there is a town named Harlingen with its majestic lighthouse high 24 meters. Not in use anymore since 1998, it is today a classified hotel of charme for two only persons. Inside one suite, subdivided on three floors: on the first one a great bath with circular shower, on the second the room, bed and the living with wide panoramic windows, on the top an observatory and a terrace for see the stars. The harbor of Harlingen is the point of ideal departure of excursions to the five Frisian Islands, whose beauty attracts every year naturalistic tourists.

Harlinen, Netherland

Amanwella Resort - Sri Lanka

A wild sand arc, a constellation of coralline rock, waves that arrive on small capes and rest in natural swimming pools among stones. One palm coconut forest. And the landscape that is possible to admire from the windows and the terraces of Amanwella Resort - “aman”, Sanskrit for “peace”, and then “wella”, “beach” in Singhalese language – come up five kilometers from the village of fishermen of Tangalle, in the extreme south of the Sri Lanka. We are in one of the most spectacular bays of the entire Indian Ocean, opened like a rising moon shape on the sunset. For this reason realize a hotel right here represents a test of the new political of tourist Singhalese acceptance, the one which tries to conjugate luxury to fashion and ecology, comfort and tradition. It was difficult to imagine a structure that did not remove nothing to the purity of the landscape. A team of local and Australian architects have worked for that. Result: an happy modern architecture dedicated to the marine atmosphere. One essential style, sharp, but very light. Thirty suites realized in stone, wood and glass. Inside of each, a private swimming pool that touches the open space invaded by the lights of the sea, without obstacles for see the water. The restaurant in minimal style located after one long and thin swimming pool before the sea: same level and color of the ones found near the sea bed. The library, that collects volumes of art and contemporary architecture, and a glass corridor, with a scenery from outside of colors and lights. It seems to be in one separated dimension but the Sri Lanka, the true and alive, with its history and its culture, is around the corner: 15 kilometers towards the hinterland there is one of the oldest Buddhist temple of the country emerged on a granite block from the top of the tropical forest.

Galle, Sri lanka

Windsor Hotel Toya - Toya

Zen, but the luxury one, from one hour flight from Tokyo. On the shores of lake Toya, in Hokkaido, the Windsor Toya Hotel is hidden in a natural park with wild forests and volcanic hills. In summer it is possible to play golf in the two 18 holes courses or it is possible also to do some trekking, in winter one can dedicate completely to ski or the purification offered by the onsen, the thermal springs. Who is looking for psychophysics balance chooses the personalized treatments of the spa, inspired to ayurveda, based on cereals, lavender and volcanic mud. In the 12 restaurants, included also the one of Michel Bras marked with three Michelin stars, where high qualità food is served: biologic fruits and vegetables, local fish, tofu specialty and green tea.

Toya, Japan

Casa Angelina - Amalfi

Watching the sea while having dinner. That is possible in the restaurant with terrace on the top floor. Getting asleep with the sound of the waves, because all the 40 rooms and the junior suite have panoramic views. Casa Angelina, close to Amalfi, is diving through 50 meters along the rocks towards the sea. If you want to descend to the beach, one need only to use the transparent elevator. In the hall there are sculptures in glass of “ars Murano” and in terracotta of the Mexican artist Sergio Bustamante.

Amalfi, Italy

Kruisherenhotel - Limburg

Camille Oostwegel, hotels and restaurants tycoon of the Limburg Dutch region, has transformed a monastery of XVth century in a luxury design hotel. Ancient - gothic church and cloister included - and modern. The 60 rooms, each in different style, belongs to the company of interior designer Henk Vos concept, with the contributions of Piet Hein Eeck, Mare Newson, Philippe Starck and of Ingo Maurer.

Limburg, Netherlands

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(source of the article are the magazines 'Fashionweek' and 'Gulliver', and the website http://www.lhw.com

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