All Hip Hotels


All Hip Hotels - 165

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  1. La Résidence d’Angkor Hotel

    Siem Reap, Cambodia

    La Résidence d’Angkor, in the heart of the small but pretty tree-lined town of Siem Reap, is an exotic, dark-wooden-panelled escape. The guest rooms have the luxury of space, with bathrooms the size of an average Paris hotel room. The décor combines earthy Asian signatures with a contemporary flourish. Then there’s the pool: a sumptuous 130-foot-long stretch of emerald green tiles with two Hindu-inspired fountains.

    The most puzzling thing about the ruins of Angkor is how little survives of the day-to-day existence of the people of the Khmer Empire.
    You go there to marvel at the engineering feats and the sheer number of magnificent temples they constructed.

    In the heart of Siem Reap, it’s an exotic escape from the heat and bustle of the outdoors.

    Photos of La Residence d'Angkor

    • The hotel is based on the houses built by monks. At the peak of the Khmer empire, kings lived in wooden palaces; stone structures were reserved for the gods.
    • The hotel is based on the houses built by monks. At the peak of the Khmer empire, kings lived in wooden palaces; stone structures were reserved for the gods.
    • The guest rooms have bathrooms the size of an average Paris hotel room. The decor combines and earthy Asian signatures with a contemporary flourish.
    • La Résidence d’Angkor is in the heart of the small but pretty tree-lined town of Siem Reap. From here you are ideally placed to explore the temples of Angkor Wat.

    Prices from:

    £1,059 pp

    Stay when the rains are passing their peak

  2. Viceroy Anguilla

    Anguilla, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    With two white sand beaches and a postcard setting, the Viceroy Anguilla combines the natural beauty we all hope to find in the Caribbean with the flair of contemporary architecture and the rich textural layering that distinguishes Kelly Wearstler’s interior design.

    Perched on a bluff as if parked there by the ocean swell, the Viceroy Anguilla literally straddles both Barnes and Meads Bay. The strong horizontal lines of its modern architecture are flanked by two strips of fine, pale sand.

    Accommodation choices vary from elegant garden view rooms, to beach front villas with private pools. What all the rooms have in common is the distinctly tactile and toned down sophistication of Kelly Wearstler’s design signature; combining travertine, bleached teak, linen, rattan, bamboo and the odd piece of sculptural driftwood fashioned into exotic table lamps.

    Thirty five sophisticated and polished acres of idyllic Caribbean beach frontage.

    Photos of Viceroy Anguilla

    • The Viceroy Anguilla combines the natural beauty we all hope to find in the Caribbean with the flair of contemporary architecture.
    • The Viceroy Anguilla combines the natural beauty we all hope to find in the Caribbean with the flair of contemporary architecture.
    • All the rooms share the distinctly tactile and toned down sophistication of Kelly Wearstler’s design signature.
    • Choose from the Sunset Lounge or the Half Shell two completely different ocean front atmospheres.
    • Cobà combines Caribbean and Asian cooking in a setting that offers a limitless vista of the sea. There are also 4 other venues and for a more relaxed experience Aleta, overlooking the sunrise pool, combines Caribbean dining, curries, salads and rotis.

    Prices from:

    £2,269 pp in low seaon (may-oct)

    £2,739 pp in high seaon (nov-apr)

  3. Carlisle Bay Hotel

    Antigua, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    The lush countryside, the warm disposition of the people – these might be what distinguish Antigua from other Caribbean islands, but for Gordon Campbell Gray, the decision to invest in Antigua was swayed by the special beauty of Carlisle Bay. This natural harbour in the most remote corner of the island, defined by a fine crescent of sand, is straight out of an ideal Caribbean press release. Its emerald green waters are surrounded by forested mountains and plenty of swaying palms, Carlisle Bay is the only hotel in this idyllic location and, having negotiated title to the entire beach, he intends to keep it that way. The swimming pool tiles were brought in from Bali and a black-painted orchid pool with its flaming torches defines the entrance.
    The all-suite hotel opened in late 2003 and the guest reaps the benefit of Gordon Campbell Gray's almost manic attention to detail in a wild and ruggedly natural setting.
    From the lights that illuminate the garden at night, to the bleached grey stain of the outdoor timber, to the abundance of orchids, to the custom-made furniture and interiors designed by Mary Fox Linton – no detail large or small has escaped Gordon's magnificent obsession.

    A natural harbour in the most remote corner of the island, defined by a fine crescent of sand, is straight out of an ideal Caribbean press release.

    Photos of Carlisle Bay

    • With the proprietor's assured taste, Carlisle Bay has been groomed as a Caribbean option for discerning adults.
    • With the proprietor's assured taste, Carlisle Bay has been groomed as a Caribbean option for discerning adults.
    • Custom-made furniture and interiors designed by London-based Mary Fox Linton
    • A fantastically relaxing setting, great any time for freshly squeezed juices, afternoon tea, a long cool drink or cocktails before dinner.
    • Table for two? They don't come much more romantic.

    Prices from:

    £1,899 pp

    Call our Travel Gurus for details on the fabulous Super Chill out offer

  4. The Cove Suites at Blue Waters

    Antigua, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    Cloudless blue skies juxtaposed against cricket whites and emerald green lawns...

    Photos of The Cove Suites at Blue Waters

    • An extremely spacious and exclusive beach resort with over 100 rooms offering luxury amenities, sports facilities and 17 acres of tropical gardens.
    • An extremely spacious and exclusive beach resort with over 100 rooms offering luxury amenities, sports facilities and 17 acres of tropical gardens.
    • 28 luxury suites are housed within 4 villas that have their own infinity pool and access to all the main hotel’s facilities.
    • Check out the Pelican Bar which offers up cocktails, live music and a calypso rhythm.
    • 3 fine-dining restaurants: Palm (Mediterranean a la carte), Bartleys (Pan-Asian cuisine) and Cove (a blend of both) – smart/casual dress required.

    Prices from:

    £2,559 per person

  5. One&Only Ocean Club

    Bahamas, Caribbean

    In truth, it looks even smarter in real life: an unusually successful blend of shiny new world bling and colonial style class. It doesn’t come as a surprise to learn that it was once the private estate of Huntington Hartford II, heir to the A&P Supermarket fortune. It still has the feel – that “je ne sais quoi” – of old money. This beautiful house was built on the best location in the Bahamas, and no matter how much the estate has changed over the years, the foundation of discerning taste is still there.
    What really stands out about One&Only Ocean Club is its ability to combine the casual beach chic that you would expect from the Bahamas with the polished formality of a summer house built on a Versailles scale.

    Some people will recognise the legendary One&Only Ocean Club from the James Bond film Casino Royale. If ever there was a place perfectly suited to driving in with an Aston Martin, this is it.

    Photos of One&Only Ocean Club

    • James Bond bling in an elegant, colonial-style estate.
    • James Bond bling in an elegant, colonial-style estate.
    • Guests are genuinely made to feel like guests. The prevailing ambience is that of a stately, elegant home.
    • The Dune Bar is situated on a white sand bluff overlooking the sea.  It is a perfect spot for breakfast or an early evening cocktail.
    • Renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten is responsible for the menu at Dune and the decor is courtesy of renowned French designer Christian Liaigre.

    Prices from:

    2,085 pp in low season

    2,475 pp in high season

  6. Crystal Cove

    Barbados, Caribbean

    A beautiful setting on, funnily enough, a cove with crystal clear waters.

    Photos of Crystal Cove

    • Luxury, all-inclusive beachside village featuring 88 rooms, two restaurants, watersports, activities and resplendent ocean views.
    • Luxury, all-inclusive beachside village featuring 88 rooms, two restaurants, watersports, activities and resplendent ocean views.
    • Colourful and comfortable interior décor in keeping with the character of Barbados. All rooms feature: balcony or patio, spacious bathrooms and wonderful garden or ocean views.
    • Beachside, poolside or tucked away under a waterfall in the Cave Bar.
    • Central west coast of Barbados, right on the beach.

    Prices from:

  7. Fairmont Royal Pavilion

    Barbados, Caribbean

    Understated elegance and Barbadian heritage set in eleven acres of tropical gardens on a half mile of stunning beach.

    Photos of Fairmont Royal Pavilion

    • Award-winning resort offering the best in Caribbean hospitality and secluded luxury.
    • Award-winning resort offering the best in Caribbean hospitality and secluded luxury.
    • Choose between ocean front rooms or beachfront suites. Both have great sea views, spacious living areas and private terrace or balcony.
    • Laid back poolside bar serves cocktails and punch alongside evening entertainment.
    • Two restaurants: the Palm for formal fine dining and the Taboras for laid back Caribbean buffet and barbecue fare.

    Prices from:

    £1,649pp in low season (May-Oct)

    £2,399pp in high season (Nov-April)

  8. Sandy Lane Resort

    Barbados, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    First opened in 1961, it was a success from the very start and in 1998 the property was rebuilt from scratch in order to provide for the modern standards of luxury demanded such as a world-class spa and championship golf. In rebuilding this famous hotel, the porches, the staircases, the walls, the symmetry, the columns -every characteristic Caribbean Georgian detail – were carefully adhered to. The end result is a hotel that looks like it hasn’t been touched on the outside but with a thoroughly modern hotel on the inside. The hotel is distinguished inside and out by its render of crushed coral limestone. It is unashamedly luxurious.

    In the sleepy, laid-back Caribbean, Sandy Lane is almost a miracle. The place is a well-oiled machine that seems to operate without hiccup or glitch.

    Focus on the many ways you can be spoilt. Because for the true hedonist, Sandy Lane is very hip indeed.

    Photos of Sandy Lane

    • Focus on the many ways you can be spoilt. Because for the true hedonist, Sandy Lane is very hip indeed.
    • Focus on the many ways you can be spoilt. Because for the true hedonist, Sandy Lane is very hip indeed.
    • At an average size of 900sq. ft, the rooms here are  unashamedly luxurious.
    • Sandy Lane features seven bars dotted around the resort.
    • Choose from exquisite fine dining at l’Acajou, ocean-front dining at Bajan Blue, or the Country Club and Spa Café, open for lunch.

    Prices from:

    from £2,999 pp low season

    from £3,355 pp high season

  9. The House

    Barbados, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    With only 34 rooms and suites, the proprietor’s chose the name to suggest the ambience of renting a villa as opposed to staying in a hotel. Only, in this adults-only villa, they serve up complimentary Champagne breakfasts, afternoon tea, evening canapés and a 30 minute jet-lag massage. Ambassadors are ever-present to cater to guests' every whim!
    On a design front its combination of smooth lines of teak, curved lanterns and modern lighting to set the mood, is suitably exotic. It's a beautifully intimate place with plenty of privacy for romantic dining. For food lovers The House may be one of the best hunting grounds on the island, because the most acclaimed addition to the Barbados restaurant scene is the adjacent Daphne’s. Located bang on the beach, this satellite of the famous London restaurant, is regarded by many as better than the original.

    The House is the beachside version of a hip downtown hotel.

    Photos of The House by Elegant Hotels

    • The House is the beachside version of a hip downtown hotel
    • The House is the beachside version of a hip downtown hotel
    • Indulge together…contemporary luxury and comfort for adults only
    • The House is the venue for an extremely laid-back ritual that alternates between swimming, sitting in the sun, drinking in the lounge……
    • Located bang on the beach, this satellite of the famous London restaurant, Daphne’s, is regarded by many as better than the original is next door.

    Prices from:

    £1,699 pp in low season (May-Oct)

    £1,499 pp in high season (prices include up to 35% savings for bookings by 30th April)

  10. The Sandpiper

    Barbados, Caribbean

    Elegant and discreet are the words that best sum up The Sandpiper. It is not a hotel that wants to impress with its cutting edge newness or with its size. It is a timeless property that has the same patrician feel you come across in a Ralph Lauren ad. It is stylish in a seemingly effortless fashion that belies the work and quality that goes into creating a place like this.

    Situated on the quieter West coast of Barbados, The Sandpiper is in the ideal location for water sports (sailing, water skiing, diving, swimming) and it is also within easy access of all the islands’ best bars, restaurants and nightlife.

    The Sandpiper’s forty-seven rooms, suites and Tree Top suites are set in seven acres of landscaped gardens and the interiors are distinguished by a distinctly colonial feel that includes pickled pine ceilings and plantation-style detailing for the doors and windows.

    A small colonial gem on the beach.

    Photos of The Sandpiper

    • Elegant and discreet are the words that best sum up The Sandpiper.
    • Elegant and discreet are the words that best sum up The Sandpiper.
    • The Sandpiper’s forty-seven rooms, suites and Tree Top suites are set in seven acres of landscaped gardens.
    • Surrounded by tropical gardens and tranquil koi ponds, the Sandpiper’s restaurant is regarded by many as the best in Barbados.
    • A mosaic tiled pool awaits you, surrounded by carefully manicured tropical vegetation.

    Prices from:

    £1,775 pp in low season

    £1,995 pp in high season

  11. Necker Island

    British Virgin Islands, Caribbean

    Necker, Sir Richard Branson’s private island paradise, is situated in the British Virgin Islands, a stunning and unspoilt area of the Caribbean. At 74 acres, Necker sits in turquoise waters surrounded by coral reefs and fringed with beautiful white sandy beaches. The island can be hired exclusively or you can enjoy the Necker experience during selected Celebration Weeks when individual rooms can be booked by singles or couples to enjoy our fabulous island paradise ‘house party’ style. Guests are encouraged to treat Necker like their own home, and are welcome to help themselves to anything they want, any time.

    Although Necker Island’s Great House was destroyed by fire in 2011, the vast majority of the island and its facilities were unaffected. There will be some renovations taking in place in early 2012 with some exciting enhancements for the re-opening in April. The Great House itself will take a while to restore to its former glory but in the meantime guests will be accommodated within the six refurbished Bali Houses, Temple House (Sir Richard’s Branson’s house) and also on board Necker Belle, Sir Richard’s luxury catamaran! Therefore there is plenty of exciting spaces to sleep up to 28 guests for all kinds of celebrations with friends and family.

    Necker can become your own private hideaway; away from the stresses and strains of daily life.

    Photos of Necker Island

    • This majestic, airy Balinese villa is the hub of the Island, located on Devil’s Hill and boasting panoramic views of the Caribbean, the Atlantic Ocean and neighbouring islands.
    • This majestic, airy Balinese villa is the hub of the Island, located on Devil’s Hill and boasting panoramic views of the Caribbean, the Atlantic Ocean and neighbouring islands.
    • There are six Balinese style houses which are perfect for tropical seclusion.
    • Fine food is the highlight of any guest’s stay, meals can be enjoyed by firelight, candlelight or starlight and the chefs will prepare whatever guests desire.
    • Situated in the British Virgin Islands, Necker sits in turquoise waters surrounded by coral reefs and fringed with the beautiful white sandy beaches.

    Prices from:

    £10,229 pp

    Celebration weeks throughout the 2011

  12. You’ll be transported to a time when Latin American cool provided the essential ingredient to every romantic flirtation.

    Photos of Palacio del Marqués de San Felipe

    • 18th century boutique hotel with recently revamped interior makes this a great base from where to explore.
    • 18th century boutique hotel with recently revamped interior makes this a great base from where to explore.
    • Suites contain Cuban art, satellite TV, Jacuzzi baths and DVD players.
    • Mini-bar in room and lobby bar for all guests.
    • The hotel has an a la carte restaurant serving classic Cuban and international cuisine.

    Prices from:

    £969 per person

  13. The frenetic salsa and sightseeing of fabulous Havana leaves many of us wanting a little Cuban beach life...

    Photos of Paradisus Varadero Royal Service

    • Beachside resort featuring just over 500 rooms, extensive spa facilities and eight restaurants.
    • Beachside resort featuring just over 500 rooms, extensive spa facilities and eight restaurants.
    • Choice of suite or villa with stylish decoration and designer comforts and modern amenities. Ocean views guaranteed.
    • Bars located at the pool, beach and lobby as well as an air-conditioned fun pub.
    • Eight restaurants offering everything from al a carte to buffet including Japanese, Italian, steak and Caribbean Creole cuisine.

    Prices from:

  14. Saratoga Hotel

    Cuba, Caribbean

    The Saratoga “certainly has, without a doubt, the best view”. From the rooftop restaurant and pool you have a 200 and something degree view of the city, with the impressive Capitolio and Teatro Nacional just across the street.

    At its zenith in the Thirties an all-girl swing band called Anacaona made the hotel one of Havana’s hotspots: today, Saratoga brings a certain style from that era to its contemporary interior. The restaurant is red and Moroccan, the atrium bar looks like it could still host the band. It’s a surprisingly stylish hotel, none of which is obvious from the exterior. Apart from the pool on the roof, which is a very sophisticated and welcome touch, they also must have one of the best located restaurants in the city with Old Havana stretching out below.

    Contemporary interiors with a certain style from the Thirties and a superb location in Old Havana.

    Photos of Saratoga

    • The history of the hotel dates back to the mid 1800s and has been an institution in the city for well over 100 years.
    • The history of the hotel dates back to the mid 1800s and has been an institution in the city for well over 100 years.
    • Saratoga Rooms have views of the National Capitol and Fraternity Park; Deluxe Patio rooms overlook the courtyard and some rooms look onto the mezzanine.
    • At its zenith in the Thirties an all-girl swing band called Anacaona made the hotel one of Havana’s hotspots: the atrium bar looks like it could still host the band.
    • Saratoga brings a certain style from that era to its contemporary interior. The restaurant is red and Moroccan

    Prices from:

    £1,025 pp in low season

    £1,159 pp in high season

  15. Laluna Hotel

    Grenada, Caribbean

    It’s not a surprise to discover that Laluna is the vision of an intrepid Italian; they seem to have a knack for places like this. Bernardo Bertucci arrived here just over 10 years ago, and fell in love with the island, and the fact that it was not as commercial as other Caribbean islands.

    This hotel is far more colourful and ethnic than any of the other hotels. The owner decided to focus on a décor and design much more in tune with the surrounding jungle. Laluna is for people who embrace the chance to escape to a bungalow disguised by the verdant green of a tropical island, just above a beach that is hidden away for all but the guests of the property.

    This is a place where you forget time, routine and protocol, and focus instead on the natural beauty of these volcanic Caribbean islands.

    Photos of Laluna

    • This hotel is the ‘outsider’ on Grenada.  For starters, it’s the only place not on Great Anse Beach.  It’s also far more colourful and ethnic than any of the other islands’ hotels.
    • This hotel is the ‘outsider’ on Grenada.  For starters, it’s the only place not on Great Anse Beach.  It’s also far more colourful and ethnic than any of the other islands’ hotels.
    • La luna is for people who embrace the chance to escape to a bungalow disguised by the green of a tropical island.
    • This is a place where you forget time and focus instead on the natural beauty of these volcanic Caribbean islands.

    Prices from:

    £1,439 pp in low season

    £2,025 pp in high season

  16. Mount Cinnamon Hotel

    Grenada, Caribbean

    ... a collection of red-roofed villas tucked into the dense greenery of Mount Cinnamon. They each have a brilliant view of the bay that defines Grenada and of the starting point of Great Anse beach.

    These are villas in the true domestic context of the word, they are houses with proper living rooms, kitchens, terraces, and completely separate bedrooms; houses that are perfect for people with children.

    The rest of the hotel is just down the hill from the villas. It’s not huge, and that is its charm. It is all on a scale that feels cosy and comfortable. One thing is certain; the hotel has a great view, probably the best on the island, a great location, a two minute stroll from the beach, and a very comfortable scale.

    Peter de Savary’s Mount Cinnamon is a new and fun boutique resort set on the beautiful Grand Anse Beach.

    Photos of Mount Cinnamon

    Prices from:

    £1,399 pp

    Free night offer available!

  17. Spice Island Beach Resort

    Grenada, Caribbean

    Of all the hotels along Grand Anse Beach, Spice Island definitely has the best location. Tucked just behind the dunes, the whole resort is literally a stone’s throw from the beach.
    Spice Island’s beach bungalows are the most sought - after rooms on the island. The terrace end of their open plan interior leads directly onto the beach; thirty paces from your bed. The same is true for the restaurants (there are two), the colonial bar and the pool.
    It is considered the best hotel in Grenada, and deservedly so. It runs like clockwork, the service is personable and professional, and the style is a cool and contemporary version of a Caribbean classic, limestone colonial. A lot of effort has gone into creating a look that appears effortless. It’s a laidback place that makes running a hotel look easy.

    To be a guest at Spice Island Beach Resort, is to live in elegant luxury on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

    Photos of Spice Island Beach Resort

    • This hotel does not rest on its laurels, the service is personable and professional, and the style is a cool and contemporary version of a Caribbean classic, limestone colonial.
    • This hotel does not rest on its laurels, the service is personable and professional, and the style is a cool and contemporary version of a Caribbean classic, limestone colonial.
    • Spice Island’s beach bungalows are the most sought-after rooms on the island.  The terrace end of their open plan interior leads directly onto the beach; thirty paces from your bed.
    • Both Oliver’s restaurant and the Sea and Surf Terrace & Bar combine the best of international and creole cuisine to the backdrop of Grenada’s calyso, reggae and steel bands.
    • The gorgeous free-form swimming pool is equally as tempting as the turquoise waters of the sea.

    Prices from:

    £2,379 pp

    Perfect for families

  18. Geejam

    Jamaica, Caribbean

    Set in the jungle on the secluded and unspoilt northeast coast, Geejam is a stone’s throw from the island’s most beautiful and charming beaches, and only a short journey from the island’s most renowned waterfalls. Geejam is an exclusive collection of deluxe cabins and villas with the added street cred of also being a fully fledged recording studio.

    Musicians need privacy when they are recording an album, but they also need comfort and inspiration. With room names like Ska, Rocksteady, Drum&Bass this retreat openly celebrates its musical pedigree and the design only amplifies it, with hidden speakers and the fusion of sleek design.
    Organic elegance best describes the style of this six acre estate. A duo of three hundred year old fig trees also serve as the foundation of the Bushbar. It’s all a well balanced mix of upscale interiors – Hansgrohe taps, Starck bathtubs –natural environment – the property has its own waterfall -and the “we know how to chill” shabby chic that has come to typify the Island Outpost group.

    Music is as much a part of Jamaica as its mountains, beaches and jungle. Combine all these attributes, condense them, and you end up with Geejam

    Photos of Geejam

    • Chill like a rockstar in a stylish mix of sleek design and tropical attitude.
    • Chill like a rockstar in a stylish mix of sleek design and tropical attitude.
    • In contrast to the authentic rootsy tropical architecture of the public areas, the rooms use sleek design to juxtapose with the dominant natural beauty.
    • Two 300-year-old fig trees form the very centre of this Caribbean Garden of Eden.  The majestic sweep of its verdant canopies are the roof of one of the funkiest bars in Jamaica.
    • The kitchen’s specialty is a unique fusion of Jamaican and Asian affair, served in true rockstar fashion; where you want, when you want.

    Prices from:

    £2,199 pp

    Complimentary transfers for stays of 4 nights or more

  19. Goldeneye

    Jamaica, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    For those who like their lives shaken but not stirred.

    Photos of Goldeneye

    • It is a spectacular and priceless piece of real estate that just happens to be a hotel, without being or looking like one.
    • It is a spectacular and priceless piece of real estate that just happens to be a hotel, without being or looking like one.
    • Discrete, casual and relaxed, the atmosphere is much more personal retreat rather than holiday resort.
    • Goldeneye is on the sea in the little village of Oracabessa Bay on Jamaica’s North Coast.
    • The best pool at GoldenEye is the natural Lagoon. Think of it as a 250 meter pool! Part seawater and part freshwater, it’s always warm, almost always tranquil.

    Prices from:

    £2,075 pp in low season

    £2,535 pp in high season

  20. Jake's

    Jamaica, Caribbean

    Named after Jake – her pet parrot – this is the story of one woman’s love for her beach. Treasure Beach was the place Sally Densham spent all her childhood holidays: swimming, fishing and doing nothing else much of significance played such a role in her life that she purchased the property in 1991 and personally set out to build an eclectic collection of thirty odd cottages influenced by India, Morocco and the Adobe architecture of the American South West.

    A bohemian bolthole on a different side of the island.

    Photos of Jake's

    • Jakes is a romantic retreat, a spiritual haven and a party place all at the same time.
    • Jakes is a romantic retreat, a spiritual haven and a party place all at the same time.
    • A rare mix of chic sensuality and artistic flair sums up the accommodation at Jakes.
    • Dougie’s bar is a Jakes institution. Or more accurately, the signature Rum punch is the institution. It is a Jamaican beach shack decorated with Jamaican memorabilia, manned and operated by Dougie himself.
    • The mantra is ‘eat what you grow'.

    Prices from:

    £1,139 pp

    Truly Jamaican experience

  21. Jamaica Inn

    Jamaica, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    Romantic, elegant, refined, Jamaica Inn is a timeless and intimate complex directly on Jamaica’s finest private beach.

    Photos of Jamaica Inn

    • A colonial inspired classic, Jamaica Inn is all about space, and privacy and a style that has changed little since it first opened in the early fifties.
    • A colonial inspired classic, Jamaica Inn is all about space, and privacy and a style that has changed little since it first opened in the early fifties.
    • All guest suites face the beach and each has a veranda or a balcony -many guests opt to leave the air conditioning off and allow the sea breeze to do the work instead.
    • Dining is on an outdoor terrace that adjoins the bar terrace.   A more romantic setting is hard to imagine.
    • Bordered by an exquisite 700 ft long beach, the hotel is in Ocho Rios on the more tranquil west coast of the island.

    Prices from:

    £1,459 per person

    Stay 7 pay 6 for selected 2012 dates

  22. Round Hill Resort

    Jamaica, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    Round Hill is where Jacqueline and JFK spent their honeymoon, where Rodgers and Hammerstein played chess, where Hitchcock got sunburned and where Noel Coward, if egged on enough, would sing for the guests.

    After 50 years, Round Hill has a million stories to tell, but most impressive is how little it has changed. The place today offers the same blend of qualities that has always pulled the famous names and faces; namely a well-preserved slice of old Jamaica.

    Today you still enjoy its stylish architecture and a predictably colonial pace of life, but with the added pull of an oceanfront spa and refurbished hotel rooms designed for beach living by Ralph Lauren, (perhaps whilst visiting his own villa at Round Hill).

    A former pineapple plantation on the outskirts of Montego Bay, what is it about Round Hill that makes it such a magnet?

    Photos of Round Hill

    • After 50 years, Round Hill has a million stories to tell, but most impressive is how little it has changed.
    • After 50 years, Round Hill has a million stories to tell, but most impressive is how little it has changed.
    • Make sure you have a drink in the semi-enclosed lounge, listening to the strains of the piano and watching the sun set.
    • Having Noel Coward as one of the first guests was a huge coup for Round Hill. Today it offers the same blend of qualities that has always pulled the famous faces.
    • What is it about Round Hill that makes it such a magnet? A significant part of the equation is Jamaica itself.

    Prices from:

    £1,399 pp in low season

    £1,599 pp in high season

  23. Strawberry Hill Resort

    Jamaica, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    Strawberry Hill is a former coffee plantation perched on a plateau 3,100 feet above sea level. It looks down on the sprawling city of Kingston below and the blue-green waters of the Caribbean beyond.

    The architecture and design of Strawberry Hill’s twelve guest villas are stunning. With their awnings, verandas and mountain vistas, they are apparently a self-contained world set apart from local life. But in fact the place continues to play a role in Jamaican society – key members of Kingston’s urban set make the forty-five minute drive to the renowned restaurant each week to eat, discuss and linger until sunset.

    Aside from the food, the spectacular location and the cool temperatures, Strawberry Hill is also renowned as an Aveda spa.

    Colonial plantation style meets island cool in the misty blue mountains of Jamaica.

    Photos of Strawberry Hill

    • Colonial plantation style meets island cool in the misty blue mountains of Jamaica.
    • Colonial plantation style meets island cool in the misty blue mountains of Jamaica.
    • With their awnings, verandas and mountain vistas -The architecture and design of Strawberry Hill's twelve guest villas are stunning.
    • Key members of Kingston’s urban set make the forty five minute drive each week to eat, discuss and linger till sunset.

    Prices from:

    £2,075 pp

    Stunning retreat in the Blue Mountains

  24. The Caves Hotel

    Jamaica, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    Perched on craggy cliffs thirty feet above a translucent emerald green sea, this hotel is unique in the Caribbean. The sea caves are filled with the inhabitants of the coral reef: eels, parrot fish and rays. Some of the caves are large enough to take boats into, and of course it's a paradise for diving and snorkelling. Snorkelling equipment is all included in the room rates; all you have to do is launch yourself into the twenty-foot waters below.

    The caves are just part of an experience that is totally Jamaican. From the hand-made wooden furniture to the colourful fabrics and local works of art. The food is wholesome, with an emphasis on fresh fish, Jamaican-style vegetables and tropical fruit. Reggae and blues are played in the thatched cliff-side pavilion where meals are served. There are no televisions; evening entertainment consists of lively conversation enhanced by rum cocktails.

    It is a small jungle-clad retreat of thatched timber huts that literally sit on and between some of the most spectacular sea caves in the world.

    Photos of The Caves

    • It is a small jungle-clad retreat of thatched timber huts that literally sit on and between some of the most spectacular sea caves in the world.
    • It is a small jungle-clad retreat of thatched timber huts that literally sit on and between some of the most spectacular sea caves in the world.
    • The rooms, or more accurately, the guest bungalows, redefine the notion of a thatched hut.
    • Reggae and blues are played in the thatched cliff side pavilion.
    • The food is wholesome, tasty Jamaican fare, with an emphasis on fresh fish.

    Prices from:

    £2,199 pp

    For a week's All Inclusive stay

  25. Banyan Tree Mayakoba

    Mexico, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    Lovingly located amidst the lagoons and dunes of the Riviera Maya, the award-winning romantic spa resort of Banyan Tree Mayakoba will leave you breathless and very much in love.

    Photos of Banyan Tree Mayakoba

    • Environmentally harmonious 107 villa resort constructed within the mangrove lagoons and white sand dunes of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.
    • Environmentally harmonious 107 villa resort constructed within the mangrove lagoons and white sand dunes of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.
    • Décor tastefully reflects the Mayan culture with hand-crafted furnishings complementing contemporary comforts. Facilities range from: private gardens and pools to spa and Jacuzzi areas.
    • Several bars ranging from: poolside to rooftop, all serving cocktails, light snacks and drinks.
    • Choose from: Mexican, Thai, sea food and Mediterranean restaurants which all serve dishes of an extremely high-standard within sublime settings.

    Prices from:

    £1,839 per person

  26. One&Only Palmilla

    Mexico, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    Infused with the charm of Mexico, but without the over kill of clichés, the One&Only Palmilla is how Mexico should be. The Pacific is seen from every direction with the added bonus that the Palmilla’s beach is one of the few beaches from which you can swim in the area.


    Perched on the tip of the Baja Peninsula, framed by mountainous desert, Palmilla is where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez – a part of Mexico’s coast, where grey whales still breach water.

    Luxury disguised by charming Mexican inspired beauty, on the perfect pacific beach.

    Photos of One&Only Palmilla

    • Infused with the charm of Mexico, but without the over kill of clichés, the One&Only Palmilla is how Mexico should be.
    • Infused with the charm of Mexico, but without the over kill of clichés, the One&Only Palmilla is how Mexico should be.
    • The distinct red roof tiles and white washed walls of the ocean-front or beach-front rooms are blended with just the right amount of hand craft.
    • Agua is how you would expect a bar in Baja to be: a casual Palapa (thatched pavilion) overlooking the beach.
    • The dining at One&Only Palmilla offers memorable settings and a culinary adventure of authentic dishes.

    Prices from:

    £2,889 pp in low season

    £4,015 pp in high season

  27. Viceroy Riviera Maya

    Mexico, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    Hidden in the small village of Playa Xcalacoco on the stretch of Caribbean coast known as Riviera Maya, this is an intimate collection of private guest bungalows in a dramatic setting that weaves together the jungle, the beach and the aesthetics of a style influenced by the culture of the Maya.

    They call it the Riviera Maya, a two hundred and thirty mile long ribbon of perfect white sand that stretches from Cancun, on the Eastern most point of the Yucatan peninsular, to the border with Belize. Viceroy Riviera Maya is situated just outside the town of Playa Del Carmen - Yucatan’s version of Saint Tropez.

    Seven miles of sandy beaches, acres of untouched jungle and thirty stylishly sophisticated villas.

    Photos of Viceroy Riviera Maya

    • Hidden in the small village of Playa Xcalacoco on the stretch of Caribbean coast known as Riviera Maya, this is an intimate collection of private guest bungalows in a dramatic jungle and beach setting.
    • Hidden in the small village of Playa Xcalacoco on the stretch of Caribbean coast known as Riviera Maya, this is an intimate collection of private guest bungalows in a dramatic jungle and beach setting.
    • Each guest gets a villa which includes a private plunge pool, outdoor moon showers and a hammock. They are large enough to feature an outdoor terrace but the real sense of space and privacy comes from its magnificent seclusion
    • Featuring contemporary fusion interpretations of Mexican and Mayan cuisine, La Marea is on the edge of the beach. There is also Antojería - literally a place of little cravings - where traditional Mexican street food is offered in an authentic market setting.
    • Situated just outside the town of Playa Del Carmen - Yucatan’s version of Saint Tropez. They call it the Riviera Maya, a two hundred and thirty mile long ribbon of perfect white sand stretching from Cancun to the border with Belize.

    Prices from:

    £2,339 pp in low season

    £2,989 pp in high season

  28. W Mexico City

    Mexico, Caribbean

    The W Mexico City has taken the influences of legendary Mexican artists Diego Rivera and Frida Khalo and dragged them, kicking and screaming, into the twenty-first Century. Rivera’s fondness for monumental murals have been given a comic book twist and the colours of the Mexican arts and crafts tradition as promoted by Frida Khalo have been used with abandon, to the point where the entire hotel is literally awash in saturated colour.

    Slick contemporary spaces meet pulsating Mexican colours.

    Photos of W Mexico City

    • The W Mexico City has taken the influences of legendary Mexican artists Diego Rivera and Frida Khalo and dragged them, kicking and screaming, into the twenty-first Century.
    • The W Mexico City has taken the influences of legendary Mexican artists Diego Rivera and Frida Khalo and dragged them, kicking and screaming, into the twenty-first Century.
    • The first word that comes to mind when you look at these distinct guest suites is RED, cherry RED… very RED.
    • The Red Lounge is exactly what it says on the box: a magnificently red space with red floors, red walls, red ceilings and red furniture.
    • Solea brings all the colours of the Mexican village: vibrant pink, azul (blue), fiesta red and mixes it with a series of modern linear spaces, to create a steak house that looks nothing like a steak house.

    Prices from:

    £1,255 pp

    Ask a Travel Guru about our VHip VIP offer

  29. The Cotton House Hotel

    Mustique, St Vincent & Grenadines, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    In 1959 Lord Glenconner bought the entire island for £45,000, a small fortune then for an island without buildings, services or water. He created the hotel to encourage guests to visit and purchase land – to this day this exclusive island is privately owned by those who chose to be homeowners on this earthly paradise.

    Today the restored remains of the plantation including the windmill and warehouse form the core of the Cotton House hotel, the dining room, the ballroom, and the popular Monkey Bar, and guests are accommodated in individual houses of their own each with a view. It has the best location on this man-made Eden, on a promontory that divides windswept L'Ansecoy Bay from the calm green waters on the other side.

    Cotton House is a collection of individual “residences” dotted around a lush old sugar plantation estate.

    Photos of The Cotton House

    • Cotton House is based in a collection of old plantation buildings, the imposing storage house has been used for the dining room, the ballroom and the popular monkey bar.
    • Cotton House is based in a collection of old plantation buildings, the imposing storage house has been used for the dining room, the ballroom and the popular monkey bar.
    • Dotted around the lush estate, guests are accommodated in houses of their own, finished in classical, colonial style, with linens, cottons, rattan furniture and polished wooden floors.
    • The Monkey bar is as legendary as the island’s eccentric founder- a perfect name for a bar intended for misbehaving.
    • A 3-course gastronomic dinner is included at The Veranda restaurant.

    Prices from:

    £1,699 pp in low season

    £2,075 pp in high season

  30. Special Offer

    Montpelier Plantation & Beach is a new type of Caribbean destination – a sophisticated, rather sizeable sanctuary of more than sixty acres with just nineteen rooms, that is entirely devoted to a modern sense of laid back hedonism.

    Dominated by Nevis Peak, the ravines and steep slopes of this volcanic island continue to impress. Montpelier Plantation & Beach is situated high in the hills of this Caribbean gem, but in keeping with its dedication to the luxury of choice it also has a private beach.

    As for the rooms, a chic, pared down approach is applied to colonial ‘bones’. Bathrooms are big and cutting edge and the rooms, thanks to their heritage, have high ceilings, hard wood floors and big windows open to the Trade Winds. Unconventionally, you will not find a TV in the rooms or an iPod docking station, or any usually ubiquitous entertainment technology. The idea is to slow down... in style.

    A break from both the rat race and from tradition; this is not your usual Caribbean retreat. Clean contemporary style mixes it with the historical pedigree of a former sugar plantation.

    Photos of Montpelier Plantation & Beach

    • Montpelier is a new type of Caribbean destination – a sophisticated, rather sizeable sanctuary of more than sixty acres with just nineteen rooms.
    • Montpelier is a new type of Caribbean destination – a sophisticated, rather sizeable sanctuary of more than sixty acres with just nineteen rooms.
    • A chic, pared down approach is applied to colonial ‘bones’. Bathrooms are big and cutting edge and the rooms, thanks to their heritage, have high ceilings, hard wood floors and big windows open to the Trade Winds
    • During the day life is focused around the pool and the pool bar or around the beach club. In the evening, it shifts to the Great Room
    • This being a Relais & Chateaux property, food and drink are taken very seriously indeed.

    Prices from:

    £1,785 pp in low season

    £2,089 pp in high season

  31. Cap Maison

    St Lucia, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    Tropical locations don’t get any better than St. Lucia’s Cap Estate and as this former sugar plantation’s rolling hills are blessed with some of the most exquisite views in the Caribbean, you can guarantee that your stay will be as sweet as it will be relaxing.

    Photos of Cap Maison

    • Stylish and secluded beach resort with restaurants, villas and suites overlooking the Caribbean.
    • Stylish and secluded beach resort with restaurants, villas and suites overlooking the Caribbean.
    • Spacious villas and suites have air-con, ceiling fans, king beds, generous bathrooms and private terrace, pool or jacuzzi.
    • Smuggler’s Cove beach bar, Theo’s honesty bar lounge and the Cliff Bar which serves seasonal fruit cocktails.
    • Cliff at Cap restaurant’s award-winning chefs present: creative, innovative and contemporary French /West Indian cuisine with unrivalled panoramic views.

    Prices from:

    £1,599 per person

  32. Jalousie Plantation

    St Lucia, Caribbean

    Special Offer

    Tucked away in 100 acres of lush rainforest Jalousie Plantation allows guests to relax within one of the world's most beautiful natural locations.

    Photos of Jalousie Plantation

    • Luxury villa and suite resort offering unparalleled comfort and facilities amongst the rainforests of St. Lucia.
    • Luxury villa and suite resort offering unparalleled comfort and facilities amongst the rainforests of St. Lucia.
    • Suites and villas with four-poster beds, private sundecks, plunge pools, high-end entertainment systems, signature bathrooms and personal butler service.
    • Laid-back bayside, sophisticated late night lounge and colonial terrace serving everything from Caribbean cocktails to afternoon tea.
    • Delicate Caribbean-influenced dishes in the most elegant of settings with smart attire required in the Great Room and smart casual required in the Bayside.

    Prices from:

    £1,499pp in low season (May-Oct)

    £1,689pp in high season (Nov-April)

  33. Parrot Cay Resort

    Turks and Caicos Islands, Caribbean

    First and foremost it’s all about the beach. Parrot Cay’s beach is a long curving strip of blindingly white powdery sand - imagine a beach made of talcum powder and you’ll start to get the idea. Without exaggeration, it is probably one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.

    As a guest you don’t just have the beach to yourself, you have the island to yourself. The relaxed ambience has a lot to do with the fact that here there are no distractions. Here you can focus on the worthwhile simple things, such as swimming in the turquoise waters, playing on the islands two tennis courts, checking into the spa for a bit of ‘me’ time, or dining alfresco by the swimming pool by candlelight at night.

    Parrot Cay is the essence of what it means to get away from it all.

    Photos of Parrot Cay

    • Caribbean’s pre-eminent private island, with peaceful seas and the region’s best spa.
    • Caribbean’s pre-eminent private island, with peaceful seas and the region’s best spa.
    • Rooms have a sleek design, featuring four-posters wrapped in breeze blown soft cottons.
    • Relax in the Bar with blissful views over the infinity pool and the pristine, unspoilt Caribbean.
    • The island’s two restaurants serve world-class cuisine as well as an organic, healthful COMO Shambhala menu.

    Prices from:

    £2,499 pp in low season

    £2,969 pp in high season

  34. The hotel offers 42 villas (236 rooms) designed by twelve different architects, scattered along the two-thousand acre property, culminating in a large pavilion that houses two restaurants, three bars, a swimming pool and a reception lobby.

    The drive to the Great Wall takes under an hour from the centre of Beijing, but the total change in environment and ambience makes it feel like you’ve travelled for weeks.

    The best words to describe the Commune by the Great Wall are fearless and experimental; fearless in its willingness to take risks and experimental in openly embracing the new. It is a creative showcase of Asian talent: a collection of houses, all inspiringly different, adjacent to one the Wonders of the World –
    the Great Wall of China.

    “…. the new revolution in the People’s Republic of China – a design revolution – one of the most compelling hotels in Asia.”

    Photos of Commune by the Great Wall

    • “…. the new revolution in the People’s Republic of China – a design revolution – one of the most compelling hotels in Asia.”
    • “…. the new revolution in the People’s Republic of China – a design revolution – one of the most compelling hotels in Asia.”

    Prices from:

    £1,299 pp

    Hotel Available from 30th April 2011

  35. The Opposite House

    Beijing, China

    The name derives from the ancient custom that the guest house is always situated on the opposite end of a traditional courtyard home. It is also a reference to the hotel’s fondness for contrast. Situated in the village of Sanlitun, a community based on traditional, low-build Beijing hutongs, The Opposite House stands out with its striking emerald glass exterior, designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. The colour is traditional but the design certainly is not.

    With 98 studios, three restaurants, (including Mediterranean Sureno and North Asian Bei), two bars and a state-of-the-art fitness centre with the a unique stainless steel pool, The Opposite House does not lack for facilities, yet the approach is still very much that of a small, individually minded outsider.

    Timeless tradition and a captivating, contemporary dynamic are the opposing ying and yang that successfully juxtapose to make this Beijing hotel.

    Photos of The Opposite House

    • Art and innovation is juxtaposed with tradition and historical order.
    • Art and innovation is juxtaposed with tradition and historical order.
    • High ceilings and open-plan living evoke the atmosphere of a loft.  Under floor heating and large, spa-inspired bathrooms provide the comfort.
    • Punk takes luxury underground and a cool cocktail lounge called Mesh serves an eclectic menu in a chilled atmosphere.
    • Sureño has a wood-fire oven and specialises in flavours of the Mediterranean.  Bei is all about reinterpreting dishes from Japan, Northern China and Korea.

    Prices from:

    £1,335 pp

    Free night offer!

  36. Buddha Zen

    Chengdu, China

    The décor is typically Chinese and, as you might expect from the name, elements of Buddhism are prevalent throughout the hotel. As you begin to explore you’ll find hidden pockets and nooks that are just right for contemplation and the interior courtyard is especially serene.

    Other facilities include a well-being centre, complete sauna and spa, which will gently assist with any difficulties that you might have getting into the laid back swing of things. If you’re worried about losing your charming new aura over dinner then threat not, the Rong Zhai Restaurant serves wonderful vegetarian cuisine in keeping with the Buddhist doctrine.

    Once you step outside of the hotel you’ll be thrown into the busy river of Chinese street life which quickly flows catching everything and everyone in its path. However, although you’re situated in the central business district this is a relatively calm area thanks to the proximity of the Wenshuyuan Buddhist Temple.


    For discerning guests who believe in enjoying peace and tranquillity without compromising on style.

    Photos of Buddha Zen

    • Traditional Chinese décor with contemporary amenities and facilities including a beautiful interior garden.
    • Traditional Chinese décor with contemporary amenities and facilities including a beautiful interior garden.
    • Stylish dark wood furniture with smooth silk upholstery. Most rooms have a balcony, en-suite facilities and modern technology.
    • The wonderful restaurant serves local specialties, Chinese cuisine and vegetarian options.

    Prices from:

    £1,145 pp

    Ideal as part of a China tailormade tour

  37. A complex of traditional style Chinese villas nestled into the mountainous landscape of South Western China. Lijiang has to be one of the best preserved traditional Chinese towns and the Banyan Tree Lijiang is the closest one can get to experiencing the magic of old China.

    Each guest is spoiled with a villa; your own walled complex which adds to the prevailing feeling of authenticity. Each has either a jet-pool or a private swimming pool, and each of the pools have a view of the spectacular 5,600 metre Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

    Set in a traditional pavilion along a reflecting pool, the bar is situated to take in the most spectacular view of the compound. A place to enjoy the magnificence of the surroundings.

    ‘House of Flying Daggers’ with room service and a fabulous wine list.

    Photos of Banyan Tree Lijiang

    • Each guest is spoiled with a villa built in the distinct form and style of Lijiang architecture – your own walled complex which adds to the prevailing feeling of authenticity.
    • Each guest is spoiled with a villa built in the distinct form and style of Lijiang architecture – your own walled complex which adds to the prevailing feeling of authenticity.
    • Each and every guest villa has either a jet-pool or a private plunge pool, and each of the villa plunge pools have a view of the spectacular 5,600 metre Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
    • Set in a traditional pavilion along a vast basin and reflecting pool, the bar is situated to take in the most spectacular view of the compound.
    • There are two restaurants at Banyan Tree Lijiang; Bai Yun is an intimate space that focuses on local specialities.

    Prices from:

    £1,655 pp

    Perfect when twinned with Ringha

  38. At an altitude of 3,200 metres, Banyan Tree Ringha is the part of Tibet known, appropriately enough, as Shangri La.

    Ringha is an extraordinary story which started with the purchase of 20 old traditional Tibetan farmhouses and the subsequent deconstruction of each house supervised by the former owners, and the reconstruction of the same houses on an idyllic site by a river that snakes through a verdant mountainscape.

    With a very large fireplace and a view of the surrounding wooded mountains, the bar is the perfect place to kick back after a day of trekking – very, very ‘A River Runs Through It’

    Not a room, a house. Every guest gets their own Tibetan farmhouse – a funky Himalayan loft with a fireplace in the middle.

    Photos of Banyan Tree Ringha

    • More a handful of authentic 30 year old Tibetan farm houses than a hotel, Banyan Tree Ringha is a community unto itself in one of the most spectacular locations on earth.
    • More a handful of authentic 30 year old Tibetan farm houses than a hotel, Banyan Tree Ringha is a community unto itself in one of the most spectacular locations on earth.
    • Not a room, a house.  Every guest gets their own 30 year old Tibetan farm house – a funky Himalayan loft with a fireplace in the middle.
    • With a very large fireplace and a view of the surrounding wooded mountains, the bar is the perfect place to kick back after a day of trekking – very, very ‘A River Runs Through It’.
    • There are two restaurants, one of which is an all red Tibetan affair that dominates the upper storey of a house dedicated purely to eating.

    Prices from:

    £1,809 pp

    Perfect when twinned with Lijang

  39. JIA Hotel

    Shanghai, China

    Definitely the most cutting edge property to be added to the Shanghai hotel scene. JIA gives the city street cred in terms of overnight accommodation that it already has in spades in the art world. Set in a stunning 1920’s building in the heart of Shanghai, JIA offers a stylish yet informal environment for people who want to get away from convention and predictability.

    A dark sexy affair, the bar is on the ground floor just off the lobby, a cocktail joint in the new spirit of Shanghai. More like lofts than rooms, each guest apartment features a proper living area complete with slouch couch and coffee table, and the bathrooms are havens of mosaic chic.

    JIA offers contemporary China chic in one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities

    Photos of JIA Shanghai

    • The most cutting edge property to be added to the Shanghai hotel scene, JIA gives the city street cred in terms of overnight accommodation that it already has in spades in the art world.
    • The most cutting edge property to be added to the Shanghai hotel scene, JIA gives the city street cred in terms of overnight accommodation that it already has in spades in the art world.
    • More like lofts than rooms, each guest apartment features a proper living area complete with slouch couch and dining table, fully-equipped kitchenettes, and the bathrooms are havens of mosaic chic.
    • A dark affair, the bar is on the ground floor just off the lobby, a cocktail joint in the new spirit of Shanghai.
    • Find Italian flair in Shanghai. Italian food can (and should) be great, with Issimo re-creating an authentic Italian eating experience.

    Prices from:

    £1,095 pp

    Complimentary Breakfast

  40. The Pu-Li Hotel & Spa

    Shanghai, China

    A haven of calm and beauty amidst the chaos of China’s largest city.

    Photos of The Pu-Li Hotel & Spa

    • PuLi is something new on the urban front – a cutting edge contemporary hotel in the heart of the city that doubles as an oasis and a retreat.
    • PuLi is something new on the urban front – a cutting edge contemporary hotel in the heart of the city that doubles as an oasis and a retreat.
    • The guest rooms are unusual not just in their balance between East and West, but also in that they manage to feel more like a funky apartment than a hotel room.
    • At 32m long the long bar is exactly what it says; one of the longest bars in Asia, dominated by a massive expanse of glass providing an engaging view over Jing An Park.
    • Jing An, the epicurean signature restaurant of PuLi is distinguished by two outstanding features, the expansive view over Jing An Park and the cuisine of Chef Dane Clouston.

    Prices from:

    £1,125 pp

    Stunning hotel in Shanghai

  41. Golden Flower

    Xi'an, China

    Ideally located for sight-seeing and exploring the ancient city of Xian, the Golden Flower hotel is a beautiful and luxurious example of contemporary living. A selection of suites and rooms, all with modern and stylish amenities, ensure your stay will be as relaxing as it will be memorable.

    Foodies will be in for a treat as the hotel’s Shang Palace restaurant serves up the best in Sichuan and Cantonese cuisine all within a thoroughly pristine and super stylish setting. All-day dining can be found within the wonderful Coffee Garden restaurant which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets against the backdrop of an ever-popular open kitchen. In the evening the lobby lounge is the place to be if you want to relax and enjoy some live entertainment before retiring to your luxurious bed.

    Xian is an ancient and extremely interesting city which is said to be the birthplace of Chinese Buddhism. Thanks to the location of the Golden Flower it’s extremely easy to visit some of the renowned world famous sites such as the Terracotta Warrior exhibition which is only some 30 minutes away.

    A beautiful and luxurious example of contemporary living.

    Photos of Golden Flower

    • Spacious, harmonious and luxurious and within easy access of all the main sites of interest.
    • Spacious, harmonious and luxurious and within easy access of all the main sites of interest.
    • An aristocratic blend of Asian furnishings and Western amenities with a wide choice of room or suite. Service levels are exemplary and considered to be the best in the whole of Xian.
    • An expansive swimming pool can be found within the fitness suite which is also home to a fully-equipped gym.
    • Jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms add to the fitness suite and a massage service is available upon request.

    Prices from:

    £1,149 pp

    See the Terracotta Warriors

  42. The Luxe Manor Hotel

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong

    To understand what The Luxe Manor is, it’s easier to list what it’s not: it is not a business hotel, this is not where you meet clients in the lobby because the lobby is more like an Art Gallery. The Luxe Manor is quirky and fun. The rooms are funky, fresh and unexpected, and stylish in a surreal way. They are equipped with faux fireplaces, and the beds are so large you can sleep sideways. But aside from the rooms, one of its draw cards is definitely its location - situated bang in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, the real retail heart of Hong Kong.

    Located on the Kowloon side, Tsim Sha Tsui is packed with little shirt makers, tailors, watch shops and more - it is definitely not the shopping mall experience of the main island. It’s a fantastically fun place to shop. Tsim Sha Tsui is the real Hong Kong.

    The Luxe Manor is quirky and fun.

    Photos of The Luxe Manor

    • Cool and quirky, a bit rococo, the hotel succeeds by outstanding from the usual black, beige and gold signature of luxury business hotels.
    • Cool and quirky, a bit rococo, the hotel succeeds by outstanding from the usual black, beige and gold signature of luxury business hotels.
    • The most stylish rooms in the far east, but they are unquestionably luxurious, lavishly comfortable and surprisingly functional.
    • g.e, the hotel’s signature fine dining restaurant, is offering modern and contemporary cuisine creatively prepared by the star Executive Chef Bonelli Gianluigi. FINDS is the iconic Nordic restaurant featuring Scandinavian cuisine by chef Jaakko Sorsa and hotspot of molecular mixology.

    Prices from:

    £995 pp

    Stays of 3 nights or more will be free upgraded to next category in Low Season

  43. The Mira Hotel

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong

    A hip haven for urban hedonists in the heart of pulsating Tsimshatsui.

    Photos of The Mira Hotel

    • If you are a person who likes quality and attention to detail in design and in food then the Mira will appeal.  It is made for contemporary hedonists.
    • If you are a person who likes quality and attention to detail in design and in food then the Mira will appeal.  It is made for contemporary hedonists.
    • The Mira has so many options in terms of room category that you can virtually design your own stay.
    • A cocktail bar at the back of the lobby called Room One, that is romantic and suitably seductive.
    • You cannot go hungry at The Mira, every culinary niche is catered to.

    Prices from:

    £1,075 pp

    Ask a Travel Guru about our VHip VIP offer

  44. The Upper House

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong

    Special Offer

    Urban Zen in the heart of Hong Kong.

    Photos of The Upper House

    • Distinguished throughout by a sophisticated sense of calm, yet it is at the same time distinctly and unmistakably Asian.  People who love attention to detail will love this place.
    • Distinguished throughout by a sophisticated sense of calm, yet it is at the same time distinctly and unmistakably Asian.  People who love attention to detail will love this place.
    • Limestone, oak, ash, wool, leather, tatami, silk, and other pale, natural materials have been used to create an environment that is calm, sensual and sophisticated.
    • Called Café Gray Deluxe, you would imagine this gourmet café gets its name from the colour scheme, but in fact the name refers to the chef, Gray Kunz.

    Prices from:

    £1,499 pp

    Stay 4 nights or longer and recieve one afternoon tea set for 2 people at Cafe Gray Deluxe

  45. W Hong Kong

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong

    The brand new W Hong Kong does its setting proud, with one of the world’s highest rooftop pools, top-class restaurants, white-hot nightlife and the first Bliss® Spa in Asia. Add to that a high-tech gym, skyline views from every room, Whatever/Whenever® room service and fully-wired technology, and you’re in HK hotel heaven. Whatever/Whenever is the W’s own take on the trusty hotel concierge. An interpretation that’s leaves no doubt as to what a concierge should deliver. Be sure to test them out and get help to explore all that is both old and new in Kowloon….the Cultural Centre, Lan Kwai Fong, the largest mall in the city and the night markets of Temple Street.

    Kowloon is the Hong Kong suburb that puts the chi in chic, with giant Buddhas and skyscrapers sharing a horizon, and a buzzing atmosphere at ground level.

    Photos of W Hong Kong

    • The brand new W Hong Kong does its setting proud, with one of the world’s highest rooftop pools, top-class restaurants, white-hot nightlife and the first Bliss® Spa in Asia.
    • The brand new W Hong Kong does its setting proud, with one of the world’s highest rooftop pools, top-class restaurants, white-hot nightlife and the first Bliss® Spa in Asia.
    • Fabulous Room
    • Top-class restaurant.

    Prices from:

    £1,099 pp

    Ideal for shopping, Spa and nightlife

  46. The Balé Hotel

    Bali, Bali

    The new ethos of Asian design is less dependent on tradition and more concerned with quality and modernity.

    Located on the Bukit Peninsula, just down the road is Seminyak, the epicentre of Balinese tourism and home to some of the island’s trendiest restaurants and nightclubs. In short, this is the most cosmopolitan part of Bali and the Balé is its most cosmopolitan overnight address.

    There are twenty-eight
    swimming pools, not bad for a hotel that only has twenty-nine rooms. Then again, the word ‘room’ is hardly an adequate description, as they are individual bungalows – sleek streamlined pavilions – complete with private swimming pool, outdoor entertainment area and a sweeping view of the crescent-shaped beaches of Nusa Dua below.

    “The Balé is the most booked-out hotel on the entire island. That’s because consumers recognise a good deal when they see one. Privacy, luxury and modernity – the Balé has it all”.

    Photos of The Balé

    • The Bale is a magnificently luxurious experience – one international architecture magazine described the Balé as having 'a majestic quality, like a modern Persepolis'.
    • The Bale is a magnificently luxurious experience – one international architecture magazine described the Balé as having 'a majestic quality, like a modern Persepolis'.
    • At the Balé, every guest is accommodated in their own individual pavilion, complete with a private swimming pool (which you access directly from your bathroom).
    • Bar
    • A culinary team pay special attention to your dining needs, be it in-room, a private BBQ or personally tailored menu to complement your wellness programme.

    Prices from:

    £2,399 pp

    Stay 7 Pay 5 for selected dates

  47. The Legian

    Bali, Bali

    It has the advantage of being right on the beach with a horizon pool on the very edge of the sand and the service and the food is exceptional, even by Balinese standards. Over the past decade, Seminyak has changed beyond recognition. It has accumulated countless cutting-edge boutiques and lots of interesting fusion restaurants, all adding to the benefit of the visitor who has chosen Seminyak as their destination.

    The villas at The Legian have re-established the style pecking order. Each villa, set in its own landscaped garden, has a swimming pool and outdoor living area, an indoor living room and a bathroom the size of a normal hotel room, as well as a separate kitchen for entertaining in your own poolside pavilion. The style is a cross between an Indonesian long room, a Thai timber house and a Japanese tea room. The villas have their own restaurant, built overlooking an enormous pool reserved just for villa guests.

    There are a few institutions in Bali, and The Legian in Seminyak is certainly one of them.

    Photos of The Legian

    • A luxurious legend on the beach in the best location of ultra trendy Seminyak.
    • A luxurious legend on the beach in the best location of ultra trendy Seminyak.
    • The best rooms are definitely the newly opened villas.
    • The service and the food is exceptional even by Balinese standards.
    • Situated bang on Seminyak’s volcanic beach next to Ku De Ta, The Legian has the best location in town.

    Prices from:

    £1,599 pp

    Stay 5 Pay for 4 for selected dates

  48. Uma Ubud

    Bali, Bali

    Bali's spirituality is a big part of its attraction. In Ubud, the people still feel a strong sense of community and have thus retained the emotively colourful spectacle of the Balinese faith. Uma is so perfect for Ubud because not only is it in tune with its location; it's also in tune with its spirit.

    A charming thatched roof enclave set amidst the verdant jungle landscape, on the edge of a steep ravine that tumbles down to the river Ayung below. Arranged along the slopes that lead down to the river, the guest accommodation is in houses that are traditional on the exterior and white and contemporary on the interior.

    At the property’s highest point, kick back on the pool terrace or in the open-air bar. Overlooking the waterfall-fed pond, Kemiri restaurant offers up modern Asian fusion or the Como Shambhala healthy living menu designed to complement your treatments from a spa that is one of Asia’s finest.

    Contemporary style and timeless tradition are combined in exactly the right measure.

    Photos of Uma Ubud

    • A charming thatched roof enclave set amidst the verdant jungle landscape of Ubud. Contemporary style and timeless tradition are combined in exactly the right measure.
    • A charming thatched roof enclave set amidst the verdant jungle landscape of Ubud. Contemporary style and timeless tradition are combined in exactly the right measure.
    • The guest accommodation is in houses that are traditional on the exterior and white and contemporary on the interior.
    • The bar is white, open-plan and without walls, overlooking the pool on the property’s highest point.
    • Surrounded by water set in a lofty pavilion of pillars without doors and walls, the restaurant combines an authentic Balinese setting with modern Asian fusion cuisine.

    Prices from:

    £1,055 pp

    Stay 4 Pay for 3 for selected dates

  49. Special Offer

    Hidden amongst the sacred temples and tropical splendour of Bali’s southwest coast, is an uber chic W Retreat & Spa Bali - Seminyak.

    Photos of W Retreat & Spa Bali - Seminyak

    • W Bali reflects the rich natural beauty and cultural heritage of the destination, with a playful twist of bold designs and textures
    • W Bali reflects the rich natural beauty and cultural heritage of the destination, with a playful twist of bold designs and textures
    • All Retreats (some of the largest on the island), suites, and Villas exude high-energy interiors and vivid design.
    • WooBar is a three-storey epicentre of fun where you can sip and sightsee from the sky deck atop the club.
    • Starfish Bloo, Fire and Ice restaurants provide a wide variety of Asian, Western, seafood, meat grills, gourmet pizzas and artisan cheeses.

    Prices from:

    £1,599pp in low season (Oct-March)

    £1,749pp in high season (April-Sep)

  50. Tortilis Camp

    Amboseli, Kenya

    The sudden enormity of Kilimanjaro sticking out of the African bush never ceases to amaze.

    Photos of Tortilis Camp

    • Tortilis camp, named after the flat-top umbrella thorn tree (acacia tortilis) is distinguished both by its unrivalled views of Kilimanjaro as well as the local elephant population.
    • Tortilis camp, named after the flat-top umbrella thorn tree (acacia tortilis) is distinguished both by its unrivalled views of Kilimanjaro as well as the local elephant population.
    • Guests are housed in tents, and each tent is housed under a hand-crafted roof of makuti – traditional thatch made from palm leaves,
    • The bar is under the main thatched area that also includes a lounge and a dining room.
    • Dining takes place in a purpose-built thatched hut with the distinction of a spectacular view of Kilimanjaro.

    Prices from:

    £1,115 pp in low season

    £1,325 pp in high season

  51. Cottars 1920s

    Masai Mara, Kenya

    A visit not just to the legendary Masai Mara, but to the golden era of safari – with the spirit of romance, adventure and elegance.

    Photos of Cottars 1920s

    • A visit not just to the Masai Mara, but to the golden era of safari – with the spirit of romance, adventure and luxury.
    • A visit not just to the Masai Mara, but to the golden era of safari – with the spirit of romance, adventure and luxury.
    • Cottars has inspired countless versions of African safari chic, and the camp could easily double as the location for an epic film like <i>Out of Africa</i>.
    • Drinks following long established tradition are at sundown, and directors chairs are set up wherever guests fancy, in a manner that hasn’t changed since Roosevelt and Hemingway.
    • A tent is designated for dinner, a rustic but nonetheless elegant affair that strikes a delicate balance between linen, silver and crystal glassware and the great outdoors.

    Prices from:

    £1,745 pp in low season

    £2,165 pp in high season

  52. Elsa’s Kopje

    Meru, Kenya

    Built above the site of George Adamson’s original campsite, Elsa’s Kopje’s is a jewel in the untamed wilderness of Meru National Park.

    Photos of Elsa’s Kopje

    • Possibly one of the most famous lodges in East Africa, thanks to its link with George and Joy Adamson of ‘Born Free’ fame.
    • Possibly one of the most famous lodges in East Africa, thanks to its link with George and Joy Adamson of ‘Born Free’ fame.
    • Elegant open-fronted rooms are very spacious with en-suite bathrooms, a separate lounge area and double or twin beds.
    • There is an open bar area perfect for pre-dinner drinks or relaxing with a nightcap.
    • Elsa’s Kopje makes a point of growing its own produce so food is fresh and delicious with plenty of fruit and vegetables.

    Prices from:

    £1,259 pp in low season

    £1,725 pp in high season

  53. Giraffe Manor

    Nairobi, Kenya

    Set in 140 acres of forest on the outskirts of Kenya’s capital, Giraffe Manor was built in 1932 by David Duncan of the ‘Macintosh Toffee’ family. Inspired by Scottish hunting lodges, it earned its unusual name as a result of an effort by Jock & Bette Leslie Melville (who had bought the Manor from David Duncan) to save two highly endangered Rothschild giraffe. They were moved onto the estate and they thrived, as did future generations. So much so that the property is now also home to the Giraffe Centre, established by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife.

    Judging from the four poster beds, the stone fireplaces, the big beams, the leaded windows and the panelled doors, you really could be in a lodge in Scotland. That is, until a giraffe sticks its head through the window and tries to steal your toast from the breakfast tray. This being a manor, there is a dining room, not a restaurant and the bar is a living room with big, overstuffed club chairs and a large stone fireplace. The food is fresh and homemade, like what you would expect from a hunting lodge in Scotland with an African twist.

    Giraffe Manor is a legend; a small hotel just outside Nairobi with a big reputation.

    Photos of Giraffe Manor

    • The Giraffe Manor is a legend; a small hotel just outside Nairobi with a big reputation.
    • The Giraffe Manor is a legend; a small hotel just outside Nairobi with a big reputation.
    • Four poster beds, big beams, leaded windows and panelled doors; you could be in a lodge in Scotland.
    • In the classic British country house model, the bar is a living room with big, overstuffed club chairs and couches, a large stone fireplace and mahogany butler tables.
    • This being a manor, there is a dining room with a set menu, not a restaurant. The food is fresh and homemade, like what you would expect from a hunting lodge in Scotland with an African twist.

    Prices from:

    £1,509 pp

    Includes Half board

  54. Tribe

    Nairobi, Kenya

    Tribe is a place that has flipped the conventional business hotel on its East African ear.

    Photos of Tribe

    • Tribe is a place that has flipped the conventional business hotel on its East African ear.
    • Tribe is a place that has flipped the conventional business hotel on its East African ear.
    • Striking African fabrics, textures, colours and handmade furniture contrast with king sized beds, flat screen TVs and open plan bathrooms.
    • Picture a couple lounging by a bar on a starry African night with a fireplace to take the chill off, and then imagine the whole setting in a pool.
    • The restaurant’s name is Epic, and it was designed to be exactly that.  Guests dine on islands in a shallow pool under the starry African night.

    Prices from:

    £925 pp

    Perfect to combine with Safari

  55. Joy's Camp

    Samburu, Kenya

    This extraordinary camp is prodigiously positioned on the site of Joy Adamson’s former tented home in the heart of the Shaba National Reserve in Kenya.

    Photos of Joy's Camp

    • The ultimate in luxury tented accommodation with some simply stunning views and amazing opportunities to discover the wildlife of Kenya.
    • The ultimate in luxury tented accommodation with some simply stunning views and amazing opportunities to discover the wildlife of Kenya.
    • Each room provides a unique and wholly fulfilling experience, the tent interiors complimenting the exterior, decorated in its funky yet modern design with fabrics from local tribes and handmade glass.
    • Enjoy a drink by the pool or champagne sundowners
    • Fresh organic produce is combined to create mouth-watering set menus, all with an Italian flare.

    Prices from:

    £1,259 pp in low season

    £1,505 pp in high season

  56. Kasbah Tamadot

    Atlas Mountains, Morocco

    The views in every direction are inspiring, while inside the protective walls guests will discover beautiful gardens and an extensive and inviting complex of staircases and courtyards. There are 28 bedrooms and suites all individually designed using traditional Moroccan furnishings and antiques, with a hint of the contemporary.

    In the beautifully tended gardens, find the seasonal pool bar and terrace for light lunches, from which a grand staircase leads down to the infinity-edge pool and a gym. Past the two tennis courts you will find the herb and vegetable garden, where some of the ingredients are incorporated into the restaurant menus. Local and International cuisine is served at the main restaurant Kanoun.Unwind by the indoor pool, in the sauna, or perhaps with a spa treatment or traditional hammam in the Asounfou Spa.

    Kasbah Tamadot is a stunning retreat set at the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, one hour from Marrakech.

    Photos of Kasbah Tamadot

    • The award-winning Kasbah Tamadot was bought by Sir Richard Branson during one of his famous ballooning expeditions. The extensive grounds are filled with staircases, courtyards and gardens to explore.
    • The award-winning Kasbah Tamadot was bought by Sir Richard Branson during one of his famous ballooning expeditions. The extensive grounds are filled with staircases, courtyards and gardens to explore.
    • Named Jacaranda this Deluxe Room has views over the pool and gardens towards the Atlas Mountains. Featuring an antique ceiling and furniture, enjoy the sun rise over the mountains from the terrace.
    • An intimate fireside bar comes alive during the cooler months, during the warm months enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail at the infinity pool bar, or the rooftop terrace underneath the stars.
    • A stunning dining area complete with terrace dining, and breathtaking views, Kanoun restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine. The infinity pool bar is ideal for al fresco lunches.

    Prices from:

    £899 pp in low season (winter and summer)

    £999 pp in high season (spring and autumn)

  57. La Sultana Oualidia

    Essaouira, Morocco

    An exotic hideaway situated on one of North Africa’s most beautiful and least known beaches.

    Photos of La Sultana Oualidia

    • La Sultana is a place of luxury in the style of A Thousand and One Arabian Nights.
    • La Sultana is a place of luxury in the style of A Thousand and One Arabian Nights.
    • The ambience is open and spacious and the detailing is authentically Moroccan. It’s an exotic variant on the idea of a beach hotel.
    • Set in its own round thatched pavilion, the bar is halfway between the hotel and the beach.
    • Adjacent to the lagoon, the restaurant has a sweeping, view of the lagoon, the surrounding dunes and the Atlantic Ocean.

    Prices from:

    £895 pp in low season

    £1,025 pp in high season

  58. L’Heure Bleue

    Essaouira, Morocco

    Within the ancient walls of the medina in south west Morocco the Heure Bleue Palais sits majestically as a testament to the area’s glorious past.

    Photos of L’Heure Bleue

    • A blend of colonial style with modern comfort.
    • A blend of colonial style with modern comfort.
    • 33 rooms and suites all elegantly decorated to reflect the area’s African, European and Asian past.
    • The English lounge is as good as it gets for evening drinks whilst the roof-top terrace is a haven for daytime sun worshippers.
    • The exquisitely decorated restaurant presents a menu inspired by French cuisine and Moroccans’ love of lavish feasts! Essaouira is the country’s leading fishing port and, as such, expertly prepared fresh sea food is always in abundance.

    Prices from:

    £1,149 pp

    Stunning beach location

  59. Villa De L’O

    Essaouira, Morocco

    A historic eighteenth century mansion with a Casa Blanca (the film) ambience, inside the old city walls of a historic Portuguese port on a spectacular stretch of Atlantic coast.

    Photos of Villa De L’O

    • Situated within the old city walls, Villa de L’O would once have been a nobleman’s town house
    • Situated within the old city walls, Villa de L’O would once have been a nobleman’s town house
    • The style is a seductive mix of Oriental and colonial: a masculine, neutral palette that seems quite appropriate for a rugged stretch of Morocco’s coast.
    • There are four different lounge spaces to choose from
    • The ambience for dinner is glamorous and exotic a bit like the history of the town.

    Prices from:

    £759 pp in low season

    £799 pp in high season

  60. Angsana Riads

    Marrakech, Morocco

    The overpoweringly exotic experience of staying in the heart of one of the world’s few authentic medieval cities.

    Photos of Angsana Riads

    • In step with the medieval authenticity of the Marrakech Medina, the hotel is a collection of six ultra-opulent riads.
    • In step with the medieval authenticity of the Marrakech Medina, the hotel is a collection of six ultra-opulent riads.
    • An architectural masterpiece distinguished by vivid, brilliant colours.
    • These are exquisite houses, not hotels, so the bar is wherever you want it to be.  Whilst you are in residence it is your home.
    • Si Said features traditional Moroccan cuisine, and Bab Firdaus offers a Thai menu.  Both are open to guests of the other riads, and each riad also offers an all-day in-house dining menu that includes salads, sandwiches and international specialities.

    Prices from:

    £499 pp in low season (winter and summer)

    £519 pp in high season (spring and autumn)

  61. Jnane Tamsna

    Marrakech, Morocco

    Marrakech is a dream; but much as I love the city and its mad, medieval Medina, I prefer to stay in the Palmeraie – the vast and wild palm grove that stands between the city and the Atlas Mountains. The Palmeraie is beautiful and exotic, and it is quiet. This beauty and the quiet are amplified in a place like Jnane Tamsna – it is an oasis in the true sense.

    The gardens surrounding the five villas are extensive with five pools spread throughout. Even better, the interiors are as inspiring as the gardens. Both are a result of the proprietors. He is an acclaimed botanist, she is a renowned decorator and designer. There is a dining room, and it is frequented for breakfast, and in the winter it is augmented for dinner with blazing fireplace but meals are served in surprise places throughout the property.

    It is not a hotel, it is a fabulous collection of villas set in the splendour of one of the most beautiful gardens on southern Morocco.

    Photos of Jnane Tamsna

    • A collection of elegant bungalows set in five hectares of lush palm-studded gardens in the Palmeraie.
    • A collection of elegant bungalows set in five hectares of lush palm-studded gardens in the Palmeraie.
    • Exotic bathrooms and a beautifully pared-down décor set the tone for a sophisticated yet understated escape.
    • Jnane Tamsna is run like an aristocratic home.  The bar is where you want it to be, and with five hectares of space that leaves lots of options.
    • There is a dining room but the true luxury of Jnane Tamsna is that meals are served in different places throughout the property.

    Prices from:

    £799 pp

    Incudes 1 free night

  62. La Sultana Marrakech

    Marrakech, Morocco

    An aristocrats palace in the heart of the thousand year old Medina.

    Photos of La Sultana Marrakech

    • La Sultana is a palace; a small inner city palace known as a riad. It provides a taste of the exotic life that was once lived behind the walls of these intensely private palaces.
    • La Sultana is a palace; a small inner city palace known as a riad. It provides a taste of the exotic life that was once lived behind the walls of these intensely private palaces.
    • Each of the twenty eight rooms are rare, beautiful and sophisticated
    • A drink on the roof terrace at sundown, a cocktail in the privacy of your suite, a drink by the pool. A riad was originally a house, and in your house you do as you like.
    • La Sultana has an in house Moroccan chef and the enjoyment of dishes such as lamb and honey tagine or Fois Gras cooked with apples from Ourika

    Prices from:

    £855 pp in low season

    £975 pp in high season

  63. Riad El Fenn

    Marrakech, Morocco

    Situated within the courtyard walls of one of the city’s largest riads, Riad El Fenn combines an English flair for expat lifestyle with a healthy respect and admiration for Moroccan style and tradition. The secret to El Fenn’s lifestyle is to offer an abundance of spaces to retreat and to call your own: lush gardens and terraces, a snug salon with a fireplace, a roof terrace with day beds, a plunge pool on a private terrace and lots of hidden corners to disappear into.

    When it comes to dining the approach to food is to keep it simple. Emphasis is on fresh produce, delicious ingredients and a purposefully limited choice. At Riad El Fenn they understand that you want to eat well but you do not want to be bombarded with choices and when it’s time to relax with a drink, since Riad El Fenn is more of a home than a hotel, the bar is literally where you want it to be, on the roof, in the courtyard etc.

    A big historically important town house, with three pools, a spa and a private cinema on the inner edge of the Marrakech Medina.

    Photos of Riad El Fenn

    • Riad El Fenn combines an English flair for expat lifestyle with a healthy respect and admiration for Moroccan style and tradition
    • Riad El Fenn combines an English flair for expat lifestyle with a healthy respect and admiration for Moroccan style and tradition
    • In keeping with the exotic nature of Marrakech, each room is different in terms of its colour scheme, layout and décor
    • The bar is literally where you want it to be, on the roof, in the courtyard or in your room... but there is also a dedicated bar on the ground floor next to the restaurant
    • The approach to food is to keep it simple, fresh and made from local produce only

    Prices from:

    £925 pp

    Ask your Guru about our VHip VIP offer

  64. Special Offer

    Situated on the northernmost tip of Arabia, on the Musandam Peninsula…

    At first glance, this doesn’t look like a hotel – it looks and feels like an authentic Omani village. Appropriate and authentic are the first words that come to mind. Zighy Bay is done in a style that adds powerfully to the experience, it capitalises on this sensation of splendid isolation.

    It’s all about creating a memorable experience, and to that extent Zighy Bay has gone to extraordinary lengths. Not only do the guest houses resemble traditional Musandam dwellings, but the raw, rugged simplicity of the style carries on in the interior and yet all the refinements guests expect are here also. The bathrooms are open plan, each villa has its own swimming pool, and there is a spa, three restaurants, two bars and a tasting cellar.

    Zighy Bay is a spectacle, a raw, rugged magnificent spectacle.

    Photos of Six Senses Zighy Bay

    • At first glance, this doesn’t look like a hotel – it looks and feels like an authentic Omani village.
    • At first glance, this doesn’t look like a hotel – it looks and feels like an authentic Omani village.
    • … traditional Musandam dwellings, …  The bathrooms are open plan and loft-like, each villa has its own swimming pool.
    • There are 3 restaurants - one of them called Dining On the Edge is perched on the very top of the jagged stone peaks that surround the bay, it is literally on the edge – of a thousand-odd drop to the bay below.
    • Situated on the northernmost tip of Arabia, on the Musandam Peninsula: a piece of the Sultanate of Oman separated from the rest of the country by the United Arab Emirates.

    Prices from:

    £1,699 pp in low season

    £1,985 pp in high season

  65. Chedi Muscat Hotel

    Muscat, Oman

    The Chedi Muscat is modern and thoroughly luxurious, but it also retains details that define Oman’s culture. Situated in an up and coming residential area on a spacious estate on the beach, you would never know that you’re in a city of half a million people. The Chedi’s signature approach is to take beautiful surroundings and make them even more breathtaking with the addition of landscaping and design. With one of the best restaurants in Muscat, a traditional Balinese spa, a stunning library for those guests in the Club Rooms or Suites, an ocean-side gym and two vastly different but equally stunning pools, the property has so much to offer you really have to be motivated to venture beyond its walls. Without question, The Chedi Muscat gets my vote as the premier property in the Middle East.

    Encircled by sea and mountains, The Chedi Muscat is an oasis of serenity and elegance.

    Photos of Chedi Muscat

    • The Chedi’s signature approach is to take beautiful surroundings and make them even more breathtaking with the addition of landscaping and design.
    • The Chedi’s signature approach is to take beautiful surroundings and make them even more breathtaking with the addition of landscaping and design.
    • All rooms are stylish with fantastic views of the Gulf of Oman or Haajjar Mountains.
    • The Chedi Muscat houses one of the best restaurants in Muscat.
    • Situated on the outskirts of Muscat on a spacious estate on the beach, The Chedi Muscat is set in beautifully manicured premises.

    Prices from:

    £1,085 pp in low season

    £1,655 pp in high season

  66. Banyan Tree Resort

    Mahe, Seychelles

    The Seychelles are probably the most evocative of all tropical island destinations; not only because of the swaying palms, the turquoise water and the powdery white beaches, but because these islands remain exclusive and elusive.

    It’s all about the integrity of the experience. This is a tropical island that is still wild and green and largely untouched. Tucked away in colonial plantation-style bungalows in Intendance Bay, guests get the charm and the authenticity of wooden houses with verandas from the days of French plantations, with the signature luxury of Banyan Tree resorts.

    You get the beach, the turquoise waters, the swaying palms and the jungle-clad mountains, but you also get a private pool with your villa, a comprehensive spa and a choice of six different dining options.

    A successful combination of romance, exotic sensuality and local style.

    Photos of Banyan Tree Seychelles

    • Enjoy a position high on the hill with glorious ocean views and serene rainforest all around.
    • Enjoy a position high on the hill with glorious ocean views and serene rainforest all around.
    • Snuggled artfully among the virgin jungle vegetation are the eight beautiful hillside pavilions of the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa.

    Prices from:

    £3,295 pp in low season

    £3,859 pp in high season

  67. Denis Island

    Mahe, Seychelles

    A private island paradise.

    How extraordinary it must have been to be a traveller in the 1700s. Sailing on the vessel Etoile, French explorer Denis de Trobriant sited this small fertile island (par of the Seychelles) in 1773, landed on its blindingly white beaches and in the name of the King of France buried a bottle containing the Act of Possession. It was never found, but Denis was inhabited by French settlers and it became a plantation island. First sugar, and then copra – the dried flesh of coconut were exported, and beyond that nothing much changed on Denis except the owners who were always French until the island was acquired by Michael and Kathleen Mason in 1999.

    More a sanctuary than a hotel, Denis is simply a collection of 25 cottages with lofty ceilings in the Creole tradition that nests near the ocean, tucked away in their own patch of tropical jungle. They have verandas facing the sea and each have a private courtyard with a separate entrance to the open air bathroom featuring an alfresco shower. What more could you possibly want?

    A private island paradise.

    Photos of Denis Island

    • More a sanctuary than a hotel, Denis is simply a collection of 25 cottages
    • More a sanctuary than a hotel, Denis is simply a collection of 25 cottages
    • Every guest gets their own cottage
    • The bar is what you expect from a small private island – a rustic affaire with a pool table
    • Emphasis is on fresh, and for lunch and dinner there is always an open grill ready for the catch of the day

    Prices from:

    £3,199 pp

    Stay 6 Pay 5 for selected dates

  68. This is a chic, bohemian bolthole that feels like an elegant home from home.

    Photos of Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel & More Quarters Luxury Apartments

    • A bohemian bolthole in a historic building on Kloof Street, the most fashionable address in town.
    • A bohemian bolthole in a historic building on Kloof Street, the most fashionable address in town.
    • Designed by David Strauss, the look of the rooms in the hotel, the apartments and the villa is a result of an eclectic mix of contemporary and antique.
    • There is a lounge and a library, and plenty of great bars on Kloof Street.
    • Breakfast is served in the breakfast room, all other meals you have to find for yourself, which on Kloof Street is a cinch.

    Prices from:

    £1,079 pp in low season

    £1,149 pp in high season

  69. Ellerman House

    Cape Town, South Africa

    Ellerman House in Bantry Bay combines magnificent sea views with refined elegance and hedonistic luxury.

    Photos of Ellerman House

    • Magnificent sea views combined with refined elegance and hedonistic luxury
    • Magnificent sea views combined with refined elegance and hedonistic luxury
    • Most of the 11 rooms and 1 villa are sea facing with dimensions that one would expect from a Cape Town Edwardian mansion.
    • Shaded verandas overlooking the Atlantic and Robben Island.
    • Ellerman serves sublime food on the outdoor terrace overlooking the Atlantic and Robben Island.

    Prices from:

    £2,425 pp in low season

    £2,679 pp in high season

  70. One & Only Cape Town

    Cape Town, South Africa

    Cape Town is without question one of the most charismatic cities in the world. It is blessed with dramatic geography, surrounded by white sandy beaches, pounded by blue water surf, and it sits under the looming presence of Table Mountain. Like Sydney and Rio, it is one of the few cities that is able to combine a beach culture with the trappings of a cosmopolitan metropolis.

    At One&Only Cape Town, you get views of Table Mountain and the benefit of being right on the waterfront. Guests can choose between the urban or escape options that this collection of suites puts on offer and with acclaimed restaurants, One&Only Spa and a bar with a real buzz, the resort adds to the excitement of this city in a sophisticated way.

    Situated on the waterfront in Cape Town’s picturesque Victoria & Alfred docks this contemporary urban resort combines the signature style of a One&Only retreat with the convenience of being in the heart of one of Africa’s most vibrant cities.

    Photos of One&Only Cape Town

    • A sleek and stylish contemporary collection of suites and apartments in the historic heart of Cape Town.
    • A sleek and stylish contemporary collection of suites and apartments in the historic heart of Cape Town.
    • African woods and contemporary artwork by local artists in a palate of muted tones that recall Africa’s savannahs.
    • The Vista Bar is exactly that, a spectacular eight-metre-high wall of glass framing a stunning view of Table Mountain.
    • Two big-name restaurants, Nobu Matsuhisa’s ‘Nobu’ and Reuben Riffel’s ‘Reuben’s’

    Prices from:

    £1,399 pp in low season

    £1,489 pp in high season

  71. Le Quartier Français

    Franschhoek Valley, South Africa

    Take your senses on an invigorating rollercoaster ride of taste and colour as you experience luxurious living in South Africa’s vineyard festooned Western Cape.

    Photos of Le Quartier Français

    • Luxury boutique ‘foodie’ hotel consisting of well-appointed suites and rooms set around courtyard and pool. Separate cottage with garden is perfect for families.
    • Luxury boutique ‘foodie’ hotel consisting of well-appointed suites and rooms set around courtyard and pool. Separate cottage with garden is perfect for families.
    • A choice of suites and rooms all of which are spacious, individually styled and thoroughly luxurious.
    • Wine tasting tours, the Bread & Wine Vineyard Restaurant and a fabulous selection to accompany your meals.
    • Wow! Award-winning fine dining in the Tasting Room, small plate gourmet snacks in the Common Room and rustic treats in the Bread & Vineyard Restaurant.

    Prices from:

  72. Birkenhead House Hotel

    Hermanus, South Africa

    It’s easy to see why people and whales are attracted to the place. Hermanus is a huge natural bay with rolling surf, big beaches, grassy dunes and the odd chunk of volcanic rock standing guard, sticking out of the sand. Birkenhead House has, without a doubt, the best location on the entire beach. Not surprisingly, this hotel started life as a beach house.

    Originally, it was Liz Biden’s family home in Hermanus.

    “Personally, I can’t imagine ever giving up a house such as this to be converted to a hotel, but I am certainly grateful that they did”

    Situated at the edge of the surf, it’s the beach hotel of your dreams; warm, welcoming, stylish, with dramatic views all around.

    Photos of Birkenhead House

    • Situated at the edge of the surf, it’s the beach house of your dreams; warm, welcoming, stylish, with dramatic views all around.
    • Situated at the edge of the surf, it’s the beach house of your dreams; warm, welcoming, stylish, with dramatic views all around.
    • Individually decorated luxurious rooms enjoy either sea or mountain views.
    • Warm, welcoming and stylish
    • Stylish, with dramatic views all around

    Prices from:

    £1,725 pp in low season

    £1,855 pp in high season

  73. African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel

    Johannesburg, South Africa

    An exclusive urban boutique hotel experience, Melrose Arch is a very stylish hotel.

    Photos of African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel

    • An exclusive urban boutique hotel experience, Melrose Arch is a very stylish hotel with all the facilities and amenities any business traveller could want.
    • An exclusive urban boutique hotel experience, Melrose Arch is a very stylish hotel with all the facilities and amenities any business traveller could want.
    • The rooms do a great job of blending modernity, saturated colours, indigenous textures and finishes and luxury- each being sleek and stylish and equipped to the nines.
    • The Library Lounge on the ground floor is open 24 hours
    • March is a fusion restaurant that spans the globe in terms of taste sensations- a truly sensual dining experience.

    Prices from:

    £2,279 pp

    HIP hotel in an ideal location

  74. Phantom Forest

    Knysna, South Africa

    With a name like Phantom Forest, this is not going to be your average South African hotel. Situated in the heart of the Garden Route, guests are accommodated in treehouses, and the inspiration for this 137 hectare nature reserve is to offer guests a chance to experience the unique biodiversity of the Forest. Drawing inspiration from this unique setting, the ingredients of the camp, from the ragged thatch of forest canopy to freshwater nature pools, furniture, roofs and boardwalks, were all made in a sustainable way from cleared, alien vegetation. Meandering boardwalks snake through the trees leading to magical places such as the private ‘tree-suites’ (which come in Classic, Upper or Moroccan varieties), the Body Boma spa, the Eyrie bar lounge with superb views, the award-winning Boma restaurant and the north African inspired Chutzpah.

    A magic world of romantic eco-sensitive treehouses nestled in the wooded magnificence of the Afromontane Forest, on the edge of the exotic Knysna lagoon.

    Photos of Phantom Forest

    • A magic world of romantic eco-sensitive treehouses nestled in the wooded magnificence of the Afromontane Forest, on the edge of the exotic Knysna lagoon.
    • A magic world of romantic eco-sensitive treehouses nestled in the wooded magnificence of the Afromontane Forest, on the edge of the exotic Knysna lagoon.
    • Not a room but a private treehouse with luxury bathroom overlooking the forest.
    • The Bar is called Eyrie, a place for drinks and spectacular sunsets in summer and pre-dinner cocktails around a log fire in winter.
    • There are two. The Boma is a thatched affair serving cuisine with a local twist, and Chutzpah is Moroccan-inspired setting.

    Prices from:

    £1,365 pp in low season

    £1,559 pp in high season

  75. Chitwa Chitwa

    Kruger Park, South Africa

    Special Offer

    On the banks of one of the largest lakes in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve lies one of the most luxurious private lodges in South Africa, Chitwa Chitwa.

    Photos of Chitwa Chitwa

    • Luxury lodge with main central area, private house and individual chalet suites.
    • Luxury lodge with main central area, private house and individual chalet suites.
    • Chic and stylish decor designed to compliment the natural environment and provide the ultimate in safari comforts.
    • Breakfast, lunch and evening meal served at the lodge either inside or out.
    • Private plunge pools and a central rim-flow swimming pool surrounded by comfy day beds.

    Prices from:

    £2,799 per person

  76. Lion Sands

    Sabi Sand, South Africa

    The story of Lion Sands is like something from Out of Africa – an American fortune hunter stumbled across the untouched beauty of the Kingstown Estate in the early 1900s and the property has not left the family since.

    Photos of Lion Sands

    • A private and exclusive game reserve on a property bordering Kruger National Park that has been in the same family for four generations.
    • A private and exclusive game reserve on a property bordering Kruger National Park that has been in the same family for four generations.
    • Old world charm with a contemporary Afro-Euro chic twist.
    • Ivory Lodge has a private bar with a fireplace, the 1933 Lodge is a private, family affair where drinks are served on the wooden deck.
    • Dinner is in a boma under the stars, or in an indoor dining area with a view of the flowing river.

    Prices from:

    £3,275 pp in low season

    £4,235 pp in high season

  77. Ulusaba Rock Lodge

    Sabi Sand, South Africa

    Special Offer

    Ulusaba is a once in a lifetime experience, (although you'll want to go twice!)

    Photos of Ulusaba

    • Rock Lodge is perched high on the summit of a koppie and provides panoramic views over miles of bush, the wildlife roaming within and the beauty of the lowveld below.
    • Rock Lodge is perched high on the summit of a koppie and provides panoramic views over miles of bush, the wildlife roaming within and the beauty of the lowveld below.
    • The Makwela Suite is named after a very special leopard who’s territory is around the hills of Rock Lodge. This beautiful suite features a spacious bedroom and lounge area complete with outdoor deck and infinity plunge pool.
    • The Rock Lodge bar is set in front of the large panoramic windows offering incredible views over miles of bush as well as nearby Xikwenga Dam.
    • The contemporary African Safari Lodge Dining Room is built on stilts above the bush overlooking the Mabrak dry riverbed and waterhole, great for spotting passing game.

    Prices from:

    £2,835 pp in low season

    £3,499 pp in high season

  78. The Kandy House

    Kandy, Sri Lanka

    Photos of The Kandy House

    • This is a first-class colonial oasis hidden within the tropical forests and paddy fields of Sri-Lanka.
    • This is a first-class colonial oasis hidden within the tropical forests and paddy fields of Sri-Lanka.
    • Tranquil and comfortable space featuring four-poster beds, en-suite bathrooms and extended veranda with beautiful views.
    • Superb dining area and menu treating recipients to a varied range of freshly sourced local ingredients used within Sri-Lankan and international dishes.

    Prices from:

    £1,035 pp

    Ideal as part of a Cultural Triangle Tour

  79. Vil Uyana, Sigiriya

    Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

    This hotel is for nature lovers who wish to go on an unforgettable adventure of cultural discovery while being pampered in contemporary luxury.

    Photos of Vil Uyana, Sigiriya

    • An exotic collection of bungalows built with due deference to cultural traditions above lakes and pa
    • An exotic collection of bungalows built with due deference to cultural traditions above lakes and pa
    • Your dwelling can be over-water with private deck, within the paddy field habitat with private plung
    • Located close to Sigirya, the site of the Lion Fortress, a perfect base for all the sites within the
    • Your tranquil experience is enhanced by a wonderful swimming pool in a serene setting.

    Prices from:

    £1,185 pp

    Stay 3 Pay 2 for selected dates

  80. The Metropolitan Hotel

    Bangkok, Thailand

    The Metropolitan is a three dimensional metaphor for the city itself; a heady combination of cool contemporary with reinvented tradition. Beautiful wooden floors are combined with pieces by Thai artist Natee Utarit and an ultra-slick lighting scheme from London’s Isometrix.

    Of all the hotels in Bangkok, the Metropolitan is the first in step with the city’s new energy. The Met Bar is at the cutting edge of Bangkok’s appetite for the contemporary and the restaurant, Cy’an, is Asia’s answer to Nobu, serving some of the best and most inventive food in Bangkok.

    Guestrooms that feel more like a downtown studio than a box, understated splashes of Jim Thompson silk, a gym that is not just an afterthought, an alternative health food restaurant called Glow and COMO's trendsetting Shambhala spa, it's more than just a look that sets this hotel apart.

    Unapologetically modern but distinctly Asian, the interiors are the work of Singapore-based Kathryn Kng. The Aesthetic is a pared down mix of East meets West.

    Photos of The Metropolitan

    • The Metropolitan is a heady combination of cool contemporary with reinvented tradition. Beautiful wooden floors are combined with pieces by Thai artist Natee Utarit and an ultra-slick lighting scheme from London’s Isometrix.
    • The Metropolitan is a heady combination of cool contemporary with reinvented tradition. Beautiful wooden floors are combined with pieces by Thai artist Natee Utarit and an ultra-slick lighting scheme from London’s Isometrix.
    • The rooms are like lofts; open-plan and flooded with light
    • Order a Tom Yumtini or Pineapple Martini, signature drink  designed by the hotel’s famous sister Met Bar in London.
    • Cy’an is Asia’s answer to Nobu. It serves some of the best most inventive food in Bangkok. Or try Glow restaurant showcasing healthful, natural and organic COMO Shambhala cuisine.

    Prices from:

    £829 pp in low season

    £939 pp in high season

  81. Four Seasons Tented Camp

    Chiang Rai, Thailand

    A once-in-a-lifetime experience inspired to combine the luxury of a bygone era with the thrill of interacting with Thailand’s treasured national symbols (elephants).

    Photos of Four Seasons Tented Camp

    • An inspired travel experience that combines the luxury of a bygone era with the thrill of interacting with Thailand’s treasured national symbols (elephants).
    • An inspired travel experience that combines the luxury of a bygone era with the thrill of interacting with Thailand’s treasured national symbols (elephants).
    • With hurricane lamps, suede chairs and an open fire pit, the ambience is rustic, but the detail such as white linen, glassware and silver cutlery, is refined.
    • Set amidst the bamboo forests the spa at Four Seasons Tented Camp is all about rejuvenating and healing.
    • From the elevated position of your camp, the view is of Burma’s Ruak River, the nearby mountains of Laos and the surrounding jungle of the Golden Triangle.

    Prices from:

    £4,235 pp

    Ask our Gurus about Special packages available

  82. AKA Hua Hin Hotel

    Hua Hin, Thailand

    Situated in the hills behind Hua Hin, it is hard to believe that this splendidly isolated resort is only 2½ hours from the pulsating metropolis of Bangkok.

    Hills, forest, pastures, rice paddies: AKA makes the most of its authentic Thai setting. Located on a ten acre plot, including its own organic farm, it is an exclusive retreat fringed by mountains and lakes, and offers almost monastic tranquility.

    The beach is 10 minutes drive away but you may never tear yourself from the one and two bedroom villas (complete with roof terrace, water garden and a personal emerald green swimming pool) that are AKA’s version of a room!

    The main lake-side pool is 35 metres in length, the type of pool that would make real swimmers very happy. Big villa, big restaurant reputation, big spa menu and competitive price equals big value.

    AKA is the kind of place you’re not likely to want to leave, which is exactly what was intended.

    Photos of AKA Hua Hin

    • A luxurious complex of elegantly spacious villas, AKA is the kind of place you’re not likely to want to leave, which is exactly what was intended.
    • A luxurious complex of elegantly spacious villas, AKA is the kind of place you’re not likely to want to leave, which is exactly what was intended.
    • A one or two bedroom villa with a roof terrace, a water garden and an emerald green swimming pool is AKA’s version of a room
    • The bar is where you want it to be; there are areas all over the resort where you can meet for a drink,
    • The restaurants present a choice of French cuisine or mouth-watering traditional Thai and are reason enough to make the drive from Bangkok.

    Prices from:

    £1,599 pp

    Perfect for families

  83. Soneva Kiri by Six Senses

    Koh Hood, Thailand

    Special Offer

    A private paradise on Thailand’s unspoilt island of Kood.

    Photos of Soneva Kiri by Six Senses

    • Soneva Kiri is the first example of a private world created with only one purpose - the hedonistic pleasure of its guests.
    • Soneva Kiri is the first example of a private world created with only one purpose - the hedonistic pleasure of its guests.
    • Guest villas at Soneva Kiri have redefined the idea of private self-standing accommodation.
    • The choice in culinary experiences on offer is extreme.
    • Situated on the Gulf of Siam, just below Cambodia.

    Prices from:

    £3,125 pp in low season

    £5,295 pp in high season

  84. Six Senses Samui

    Koh Samui, Thailand

    The sweeping vista of palm-clustered islands and shimmering seas brings to mind all the fantasies we have of the Orient's beaches.

    The resort is made up of a stunning collection of bamboo-clad villas, most with their own infinity-edge swimming pool looking out over the Gulf of Thailand. A modern interpretation of a traditional Thai residence, with open-plan spaces combined with a loft-like arrangement. The restaurants and bars are open pavilions, deriving their aesthetic from the communal longhouses of traditional river communities. The view, the architecture, the style and even the temperature intentionally immerse the guest in the location.

    This is back to nature – without a hint of roughing it. Six Senses Samui gives you a lot, including a comprehensive spa that offers every conceivable treatment in Asia...with a brilliant view to boot.

    When you arrive at the Six Senses Samui the view is at once exhilarating and strangely familiar

    Photos of Six Senses Samui

    • Six Senses is the embodiment of a new kind of hotel. The focus is on space, privacy and personal indulgence.
    • Six Senses is the embodiment of a new kind of hotel. The focus is on space, privacy and personal indulgence.
    • At the Six Senses Samui there are only villas. The resort is made up of a stunning collection of bamboo-clad villas, most with their own infinity-edge swimming pool looking out over the Andaman Sea below.
    • The restaurant and bar are open pavilions deriving their aesthetic from the communal longhouses of traditional river communities.

    Prices from:

    £1,349 pp

    stay 7 pay 5 for stays 01 Apr- 21 Dec

  85. The Library Hotel

    Koh Samui, Thailand

    Bang in the heart of Chaweng Beach, The Library makes the most of its absolute beach frontage. It has the turquoise water but it also has a charm which keeps those who have discovered it coming back.

    White minimal lofts arranged along a wooden jetty leading to the beach, with a blood red swimming pool and a startlingly white media room; The Library breaks all the rules.Not many hotels can boast a blood red pool. Nothing about this place is conventional, why stop with the pool?

    An air-conditioned pavilion houses a floor to ceiling wine cellar, and a beachside bistro open to the elements – the dining experience at The Library is in keeping with Koh Samui’s emergence as a sophisticated escape destination.

    Accommodation at The Library feels more like you’ve borrowed a cool friend’s beach apartment than staying in a hotel.

    Photos of The Library

    • Accommodation at The Library feels more like you’ve borrowed a cool friend’s beach apartment than staying in a hotel.
    • Accommodation at The Library feels more like you’ve borrowed a cool friend’s beach apartment than staying in a hotel.
    • More a loft than a room, seamless white spaces, generous in terms of size and strikingly minimal in terms of style – perfect for a new generation beach hedonist.
    • Arranged along a raised timber deck directly adjacent to the beach, the bar is a perfect place to watch the sun go down.
    • Divided into two spaces – an air-conditioned pavilion with a floor to ceiling wine cellar and a beachside bistro open to the elements.

    Prices from:

    £1,675 pp

    Free night offer with complimentary breakfast

  86. W Retreat

    Koh Samui, Thailand

    Special Offer

    A futuristic, organic, idyllic resort lands on an island in the Gulf of Thailand.

    Photos of W Retreat

    • The W has raised the bar in terms of style, space and amenities.
    • The W has raised the bar in terms of style, space and amenities.
    • A Round tub is set against a mosaic feature wall that opens up to the private lap pool that runs the length of the villa.
    • The choices at The W, Samui seem to be divided between drinking for pleasure and drinking for health and wellbeing.
    • The Kitchen table is for International cuisine in a futuristic interplanetary collection of towering, circular spaces and Namu, an elegant and quirkily different setting for fine beach-front dining.

    Prices from:

    £2,125 pp

    Stay 7 pay 6 for stays 11 Jan- 21 Dec 2011

  87. Six Senses Yao Noi

    Koh Yao Noi, Thailand

    Special Offer

    This remote retreat on a small island in the Andaman Sea has one of the most spectacular views in Asia. Thai resorts and beaches are renowned for their beauty, but this escape destination takes it to another level. Camouflaged by the island’s dense foliage, the beautifully rustic but thoroughly contemporary guest villas all benefit from a constant vista of a collection of limestone sentinels sticking out of the turquoise Andaman Sea with purposeful monumentality.
    This spectacle continues throughout the property. From the bar, the restaurant, the beach etc, the view is consistent and unavoidably dominant.

    This remote retreat on a small island in the Andaman Sea has one of the most spectacular views in Asia. Thai resorts and beaches are renowned for their beauty, but this escape destination takes it to another level.

    Photos of Six Senses Yao Noi

    • A lost world all of your own with a much better view.
    • A lost world all of your own with a much better view.
    • Every guest gets a compound, not a room.  You have your own swimming pool and outdoor living area, a huge open-plan bedroom and bath space, all dominated by that singularly spectacular view.
    • There are two; one just along the beach that takes in the much-talked-about view, and another set further back from the sea, suspended above a small river next to a waterfall.
    • Situated in the tranquil, turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, halfway between Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Noi is an hour’s journey by boat from the southern tip of Phuket.

    Prices from:

    £1,579 per person in low season (may-oct)

    £2,299 per person in high season (nov-apr)

  88. Andara Resort Villas

    Phuket, Thailand

    Live an idyllic tropical life for a week (or two) in your own contemporary Asian bolthole at Andara.

    Photos of Andara Resort Villas

    • Stylish, fun and beautifully set perched above the Andaman Sea
    • Stylish, fun and beautifully set perched above the Andaman Sea
    • Not just a room but your own suite, apartment or villa for an idyllic tropical home from home – most with private pool
    • Take your cocktail out onto the terrace and absorb the full panorama with a cool breeze
    • Popular with locals both for the contemporary style, the fine Thai cuisine and of course, the view – enjoy it all from inside or al fresco

    Prices from:

    £2,139pp in low season (May-Oct)

    £2,769pp in high season (Nov-April)

  89. Indigo Pearl Hotel

    Phuket, Thailand

    Indigo Pearl is located on Nai Yang Beach, just 10 minutes from Phuket International Airport, but because it’s situated next to Sirinath National Park it’s one of the quietest areas on the island – although the hustle and bustle of places like Patong are only 30 minutes away.

    The open air lounge bar is set in a raised pavilion that catches glimpses of the beach, and Rebar neatly sums up Indigo Pearl’s ambience ie funky and blue. There are four different restaurants, the most spectacular being Black Ginger, a traditional Thai building on stilts in a man made lake with an all black interior accented by cobalt blue chandeliers. Alternatively, help create your own flavours of Thai cuisine at Moo’s Kitchen, Indigo Pearl’s Thai cooking school.

    Moody blue lighting and traditional touches expressed in a new Thai modernity.

    Photos of Indigo Pearl

    • The open air lounge bar is set in a raised pavilion that catches glimpses of the beach, and Rebar neatly sums up Indigo Pearl’s ambience ie funky and blue.
    • The open air lounge bar is set in a raised pavilion that catches glimpses of the beach, and Rebar neatly sums up Indigo Pearl’s ambience ie funky and blue.
    • A combination of rugged industrial textures and tones expressed in traditional Thai patterns, and a modernity which has a focus on the colour indigo.
    • The authenticity of the inspiration can be found in the billiard room bar Tongkah Tin Syndicate, which not too long ago was still one of the mine’s surveyor sheds.
    • Of the four restaurants, the most spectacular is Black Ginger, a traditional Thai building on stilts in a lake with an all black interior accented by cobalt blue chandeliers.

    Prices from:

    £1,539 pp

    Combine with a stay in Bangkok

  90. The Racha

    Phuket, Thailand

    A tiny emerald green dot blessed with brilliantly white sand beaches, a short boat ride from Phuket.

    Photos of The Racha

    • A blindingly pristine compound of white bungalows surrounded by white jungle arranged around a startlingly white beach.
    • A blindingly pristine compound of white bungalows surrounded by white jungle arranged around a startlingly white beach.
    • Each guest gets an individual bungalow.
    • There's a bar on the beach, and there is an even smarter bar adjacent to the pool.
    • Food is of the quality, variety and inventiveness you would normally find in a big city.

    Prices from:

    £1,479 pp in low season (May-Oct)

    £1,649 pp in high season (Nov-April)

  91. Post Ranch Inn

    Big Sur, USA

    The organic architecture is as adventurous as the location. You approach along a private small mountain road that winds its way through dense forest. A series of Tree House and Ocean House rooms gaze across to the mountains or vast expanse of sea and sky. The Tree House rooms are suspended on timber stilts, a mélange of triangular shapes creating an interior unlike any other. The Ocean House rooms are similarly innovative, virtually buried in the side of the steep slope from which they look out, with roofs covered in topsoil and planted. Fusion of glass, stone, slate and native woods reflects a lifelong commitment to environmentally appropriate design.
    Extraordinary location, extraordinary architecture – but even these are not the only drawing cards of Post Ranch Inn. Because many guests come first and foremost for the food at Sierra Mar with its world class New California cuisine.

    Spectacularly situated in Big Sur, California, perched on a ridge that drops one thousand two hundred feet down to the azure lapping waves of the Pacific Ocean.

    Photos of Post Ranch Inn

    • Extraordinary location, extraordinary architecture.
    • Extraordinary location, extraordinary architecture.
    • A series of Tree House rooms and Ocean House rooms gaze across to the mountains or vast expanse of sea and sky
    • Award winning wine cellar shows an unpretentious passion for wine.
    • Sierra Mar where many guests come first and foremost for the food.

    Prices from:

    £1,475 pp

    Perfect add on to San Fran!

  92. Ames

    Boston, USA

    Special Offer

    Beacon Hill is Boston’s benchmark. If it’s near, on or around Beacon Hill you’re in the right place as far as Boston is concerned. With its atmospheric mix of boutiques, antique shops, historic townhouses and fashionable restaurants, it is the city’s most desirable location.

    Situated in the historic Ames building, hence the name, this hotel brings some badly needed attitude to one of America’s oldest cities and a new great option for a HIP place to stay. The design is all new and guestrooms have every modern comfort yet some of the original landmark features have been retained. Being Boston there is no bar… there’s a modern translation of a tavern! Named for a tavern once housed in the Ames family home, a place that traditionally served food and ale. Appropriately enough, Woodward, offers a regional ingredient driven menu (created by Chef Mark Goldberg), that was designed to be shared at a lively table. This is not a hush-hush type restaurant.

    Ames is exactly the kind of place you hope to find in Boston. Historic and classical on the outside; funky, streamlined and quirky on the inside.

    Photos of Ames

    • Ames is exactly the kind of place you hope to find in Boston. Historic and classical on the outside; funky, streamlined and quirky on the inside.
    • Ames is exactly the kind of place you hope to find in Boston. Historic and classical on the outside; funky, streamlined and quirky on the inside.
    • White curtains, light oak, marble bathrooms combined with sash windows and grey flannel hints at the hotel’s 19th century beginnings.
    • This being Boston there is no bar… there’s a tavern!
    • Woodward, the Ames trendy tavern, offers a regional ingredient driven menu that was designed to be shared at a lively table.

    Prices from:

    £549 pp in low season (Nov-March)

    £769 pp in high season (April-Oct)

  93. W Boston

    Boston, USA

    Boston is known for its pubs, the long running Cheers was set in one, and in Ally McBeal the law practise had their own pub downstairs. The city is also known for its immigrants, the Irish, the Italians, and the Chinese – and the food and drink culture they have brought with them. It has never been a city known for its hotels. The W Boston brings some welcome alternatives to the more predictable and rather conservative choices in overnight stays.

    A big slab of shiny glass, the W Boston is the city’s new kid on the block. With 235 rooms, it brings the convenience of size and luxury to people who prefer their environments free of dark, dust and chintz. Situated on Boston Common – the city’s answer to Central Park – and just down the road from Chinatown, the W is located in the city’s theatre district.

    Cutting edge modernity comes to the centre of one of America’s oldest and most historic cities.

    Photos of W Boston

    • A big slab of shiny glass, the W Boston is the city’s new kid on the block. With 235 rooms, it brings the convenience of size and luxury to people who prefer their environments free of dark, dust and chintz.
    • A big slab of shiny glass, the W Boston is the city’s new kid on the block. With 235 rooms, it brings the convenience of size and luxury to people who prefer their environments free of dark, dust and chintz.
    • The rooms at the W Boston continue the successful recipe of space and light, made possible by floor to ceiling glass windows, and a lifestyle associated with clean, contemporary design.
    • The W Boston decided to make its bar different – in the most direct and architectural way, i.e. by removing the walls. The bar is in the Lounge - privacy, if you want it, is by way of conversation pits, and for those who insist in cosy – there is a fireplace.
    • Jean-George has made a name with the global culinary sophistication of his Market restaurants and W Boston follows suit by introducing his signature style and sense for fusion food into this New England city.

    Prices from:

    £869 pp in low season (nov-mar)

    £999 pp in high season (apr-oct)

  94. The Peninsula, Chicago

    Chicago, USA

    The Peninsula is chic, elegant and subdued. The rooms are large and luxuriously appointed, with exquisite marble bathrooms, down pillows, understated furniture, and soft amber lighting. So far, so good. There is also an amazing spa that most guests find hard to leave. There's a beautiful aqua mosaic-tiled pool, flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows, on the twentieth floor. The view is straight out to the shores of Lake Michigan (a stone’s throw from the hotel). For those with the time (and you should really make the time) the spa has a whirlpool and lap pool, gym, yoga room and steam room, and any number of oriental treatments.

    Almost all the stores worth going to are no more than a mile from the hotel. There's also plenty of culture to divert you in Chicago: you could take a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural legacy, or you could make time to visit the Art Institute of Chicago. But my hunch is that you will almost certainly be too busy indulging yourself.

    It's all about dressing up in your best clothes for dinner, ordering late-night snacks with champagne, recovering in the spa, and hitting the town feeling like a million bucks.

    Photos of The Peninsula, Chicago

    • An elegant, refined refuge in a “Go get ‘em” town.
    • An elegant, refined refuge in a “Go get ‘em” town.
    • The Peninsula is chic, elegant and subdued
    • The bar is what you would expect from Chicago; dark and moody with lots of atmosphere and always full after 5pm.
    • Avenue is the acclaimed gourmet restaurant and Shanghai Terrace is the Asian influence whilst the lobby caters to the Asian tradition of afternoon tea.

    Prices from:

    £1,255 pp in low season

    £1,385 pp in low season

  95. La Mer Hotel & Dewey House

    Florida Keys, USA

    Bed and breakfasting has never been this good and from gorgeous ocean views to authentic picket-fence charm, staying in a Southernmost Hotel Collection resort takes you straight to the heart of the action.

    Photos of La Mer Hotel & Dewey House

    • Two award-winning Victorian bed & breakfast beach houses with access to Southernmost resort facilities.
    • Two award-winning Victorian bed & breakfast beach houses with access to Southernmost resort facilities.
    • Luxury rooms and suites featuring veranda, garden or ocean views.
    • Southernmost beach cafes and bars serving cocktails, wines and international drinks.
    • Award-winning beachside dining offering: breakfast, lunch and dinner menus.

    Prices from:

  96. Little Palm Island

    Florida Keys, USA

    As good as cocktails at sunset...

    Photos of Little Palm Island

    • Secluded hideaway spa resort in the Florida Keys comprising of 30 thatched oceanfront suites, a fine dining restaurant and a fabulous spa
    • Secluded hideaway spa resort in the Florida Keys comprising of 30 thatched oceanfront suites, a fine dining restaurant and a fabulous spa
    • Thatched-roof suites containing: custom built king size beds, air-con, ceiling fans, separate living room, outdoor and indoor showers and private veranda
    • Drinks are served in the dining area or a cocktail at sunset on the beach.
    • Sumptuous decor, service and an International menu have ensured the resort’s restaurant is rated as the best hotel dining in Florida - you can dine on the beach too!

    Prices from:

    £1,449 per person

  97. Special Offer

    Introducing discreet luxury and oriental harmony to a city that has never known either.

    Photos of Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas

    • The Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas is a retreat – a place to recharge in sophisticated luxury.
    • The Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas is a retreat – a place to recharge in sophisticated luxury.
    • The style is refined and restrained, words not normally associated with Vegas
    • The Mandarin Bar on the 23rd floor is more like a stage than a bar.  Views of the strip invade the space through massive floor to ceiling windows creating a spectacle that goes very well with a cocktail
    • The pioneer of fusion cuisine, Pierre Gagnaire, has finally arrived in the United States.  Twist, at The Mandarin Oriental is his first restaurant in the United States, and Las Vegas’s visitors will be the first to sample the cuisine that has earned his three Michelin stars

    Prices from:

    £1,249 pp

    Free night offer!

  98. version) THEhotel at Mandalay Bay was created in recognition of the fact that, for some people, less is more and has opted for refined luxury as its signature. The rooms are all suites; each guest gets a separate living room and bedroom regardless of whether you’re a high roller or not. The miX bar and the miX restaurant are exceptional enough to stand alone. Situated on the top floor of the tower that houses THEhotel, miX not only has some of the best views in Vegas but also some of the best reviews. It’s the home of the three Michelin star talent of Alain Ducasse, and the space is as big as its reputation.

    THEhotel seems to follow the philosophy of Oscar Wilde; “I have but the simplest taste - I am always satisfied with the best”.

    Photos of THEhotel at Mandalay Bay

    • THEhotel at Mandalay Bay, at least by Vegas standards, is smaller and less monumental. Instead of a guiding theme or icon, it has opted for refined luxury as its signature.
    • THEhotel at Mandalay Bay, at least by Vegas standards, is smaller and less monumental. Instead of a guiding theme or icon, it has opted for refined luxury as its signature.
    • The rooms for instance are all suites; each guest gets a separate living room and bedroom regardless of whether you’re a high roller or not.
    • The lounge - Located in THEhotel at Mandalay Bay, the lounge is a swank, contemporary hangout. Sink into plush, club chairs, sit at the bar and watch the game, or have a game of your own in the billiards room.
    • Instead of a virtual A-Z of restaurant choices, it has only one, and only one bar.  But both the miX bar and the miX restaurant are exceptional enough to stand alone.

    Prices from:

    £1,065 pp in low season

    £1,249 pp in high season

  99. Wynn Hotel

    Las Vegas, USA

    For the Wynn, hotel is a strangely inappropriate description. It should be called Wynn environment. It has more upmarket brand-name boutiques than the most cosmopolitan shopping mall, more famous restaurants than most cities, and only London’s West End and Broadway have more shows. From the Manolo Blahnik boutique to the surreal Lake of Dreams, from shows such as Le Rêve to the waterfall inside Tryst nightclub and from the huge Ferrari-Maserati dealership to the 140 ft man-made mountain, the Wynn has merged fantasy with luxury in a way that will blow your mind. There is also an award-winning casino of course, but compared to all the other casinos on the strip, Wynn is very, very different as it is filled with light.

    The opening of Wynn was the three-dimensional realisation of Steve Wynn’s dream – to make Vegas a destination for people with money and taste.

    Photos of Wynn, Las Vegas

    • Wynn is whimsical and colourful in a very charming sort of way.  It is Rococo-like with all the colour and flourish, but without the heavy touches.
    • Wynn is whimsical and colourful in a very charming sort of way.  It is Rococo-like with all the colour and flourish, but without the heavy touches.
    • Room image
    • In the middle of ‘The Strip’ next to the Venetian and opposite the Fashion Show mall.
    • The outdoor pool complex has 2 main pools, smaller pools, Jacuzzis and pool bar.

    Prices from:

    £1,029 pp in low season

    £1,199 pp in high season

  100. Avalon Hotel

    Los Angeles, USA

    By Hollywood standards the Avalon has history. When it was still the Beverly Carlton, Marilyn Monroe lived here for two years and the hotel's reception area regularly featured in 'I Love Lucy'.

    By Hollywood standards the Avalon has history. When it was still the Beverly Carlton, Marilyn Monroe lived here for two years and the hotel's reception area regularly featured in I Love Lucy.

    Photos of Avalon

    • Design-wise, the greatest achievement of Avalon Hotel today is that it feels like a well-preserved gem, a 1950s building that has been beautifully maintained.
    • Design-wise, the greatest achievement of Avalon Hotel today is that it feels like a well-preserved gem, a 1950s building that has been beautifully maintained.
    • Room image
    • Bar image
    • Eat at the award-winning cuisine of the Avalon’s Oliverio restaurant  featuring modern Italian cuisine in a relaxed California patio atmosphere for chic Beverly Hills dining. Enjoy views over the hour-glass shaped pool.

    Prices from:

    £879 pp in low season

    £949 pp in high season

  101. Chateau Marmont Hotel

    Los Angeles, USA

    “Location, history, scandal, intrigue, vice…the Chateau is the most Hollywood hotel in La La Land.”

    Photos of Chateau Marmont

    • Chateau Marmont is a legend. Think of a name, any famous name, from the world of showbiz -past or present, film, music or television - and there's certain to be a Chateau Marmont anecdote, scandal or connection.
    • Chateau Marmont is a legend. Think of a name, any famous name, from the world of showbiz -past or present, film, music or television - and there's certain to be a Chateau Marmont anecdote, scandal or connection.
    • Despite being recently upgraded, the Marmont still looks as you would imagine it has always looked.  The layout and size of the rooms owe their generous proportions to the simple fact that they were originally designed as apartments.
    • The colonnaded private courtyard is a popular spot for breakfast, a quiet coffee or a late afternoon drink.
    • Surprisingly if you’re a guest here, it’s not too difficult to get a table for dinner because many stars never leave their rooms.

    Prices from:

    £1,165 pp

    The ultimate Hollywood hideaway

  102. Mr. C Beverly Hills

    Los Angeles, USA

    Ever since the 1930’s the Cipriani name has been associated with quality.

    Photos of Mr. C Beverly Hills

    • An effortless blend of old world charm and contemporary style with all the hallmarks of the legendary Cipriani name
    • An effortless blend of old world charm and contemporary style with all the hallmarks of the legendary Cipriani name
    • All rooms have private balconies and floor to ceiling sliding windows
    • Choose from the poolside bar and lobby lounge which features live music and a one-of-a-kind glass pool table
    • Authentic Italian dining offering: grilled specialities, pizzas and a wide selection of timeless Cipriani classics

    Prices from:

    £945 pp in low season

    £979 pp in high season

  103. Viceroy Hotel

    Los Angeles, USA

    Glamour, innovation, style – this hotel is all you could want in Los Angeles.

    Photos of Viceroy Santa Monica

    • Opened in July 2002, it only took a few months for the Viceroy to become the hangout of choice in Santa Monica.
    • Opened in July 2002, it only took a few months for the Viceroy to become the hangout of choice in Santa Monica.
    • The design scheme, courtesy Kelly Wearstler, manages to appeal to the older as well as the cutting-edge art world and the actors and directors who choose to live near the beach.
    • Among the poolside palms, guests can recline in Moroccan-inspired cabanas.
    • Also spilling outdoors, is the Whist Restaurant. Since opening this has become one of the most sought-after reservations in Santa Monica.

    Prices from:

    £1,045 pp

    Stay 4 Pay 3 for stays 01 Jul- 31 Aug 2011

  104. The Delano Hotel

    Miami, USA

    When it opened in 1995 the Delano must have set a world record for the number of press inches devoted to a new hotel. Journalists not normally easily impressed waxed lyrical about the white rooms, the white marble, the white-clad staff and the all-white spa.


    Starck's design for the Delano's public spaces is, it has achieved the status that all architects and designers long for: recognition as a 'classic', with its soaring ceiling height and forest of imposing columns, it offers great visual drama. Ten years on, this place has still got what it takes - Messieurs Starck and Schrager: take a bow.

    The Delano is on Collins with direct access to the beach. Collins Avenue offers more restaurants, bars and nightclubs in a row than any other area of South Beach and still has the Latin energy that makes the city such a hot destination.

    Delano is the perfect symbol of the new Miami – hip, young and design-conscious.

    Photos of Delano

    • Delano is the ultimate world-class urban resort and self-contained destination. It is a cool haven of relaxation in the middle of one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
    • Delano is the ultimate world-class urban resort and self-contained destination. It is a cool haven of relaxation in the middle of one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
    • Delano’s guestrooms are a vision in calming white, with a modern simplicity
    • Florida Room where a Lucite grand piano has been played by music legends like Lenny Kravitz and Jamie Foxx
    • Delano's wonderful Blue Door restaurant

    Prices from:

    £1,099 pp in low season

    £1,215 pp in high season

  105. One of the original Art Deco gems on Ocean Drive.
    First opened in 1936, the Tides is one of the most imposing examples of the elegant optimism that defined Miami’s Art Deco signature. Rescued from the wrecker’s ball by the rejuvenation of Ocean Drive in the late 1980’s, early 1990’s, the Tides reopened in 2007 with a stunning new interior designed by west coast based Kelly Wearstler.

    The Tides describes itself as the Diva of Ocean Drive. It is certainly the most glamorous and luxurious of all the hotels that line up along the strip dividing the buildings from the beach. With its distinct combination of vintage pieces, unusual textures (think tortoise shell, ebony, birch, etc), elegant furniture, striking lamps, huge sculptural pieces of driftwood, and acres of natural toned travertine; it is also, possibly, the most stylish.

    The single most desirable feature of the rooms at the Tides, is that they all face the ocean. Each of the suites, whether they be studios or apartments, have ocean views. Some also have very glamorous terraces and with an average size of 568 square-feet, they are amongst the most generously proportioned in South Beach.

    One of the original Art Deco gems on Ocean Drive

    Photos of King & Grove Tides, South Beach

    • The single most desirable feature of the rooms at the Tides, is that they all face the ocean and some also have very glamorous terraces.
    • In keeping with its heritage, the Coral Bar is the kind of bar you would expect someone like Errol Flynn to be parked for the night on its brass and faux hide stools. It’s a proper cocktail bar from the era that invented cocktails, cocktail hour and cocktail culture!
    • A sense of theatre and imagination set the tone for La Marea, the Tides’ celebrated restaurant. A wall of faux tortoise shells combines with canopied chairs, create a dining room completely in-step with its heritage and its setting.

    Prices from:

    £1,219 pp in low season

    £1,389 pp in high season

  106. Special Offer

    The Mondrian South Beach is a curved piece of modernist architecture with an interior designed by controversial Marcel Wanders. The style is definitely post minimalist with a sophisticated colour palette of gold, black and white. With his trademark chandeliers throughout, comfort in the sensual sense is given centre stage inside and out. The huge pool with private cabanas and individual plunge pools, surrounded by a lush garden, lounge areas, secret pathways and kissing areas is definitely not your average pool.

    The setting is straight out of CSI Miami, the silhouette of downtown Miami is behind the expansive blue waters of Biscayne Bay. Because it faces west it also has the sunsets; best watched with a mojito in hand from the bayside bar or private rooftop bar.


    There are no rooms! Every guest gets a studio or apartment - The convenience of a residence with the luxury of hotel service.

    Photos of Mondrian South Beach

    • A curved piece of modernist architecture with an interior designed by controversial Marcel Wanders.
    • A curved piece of modernist architecture with an interior designed by controversial Marcel Wanders.
    • No rooms.  Every guest gets a studio or apartment, or a penthouse.  The convenience of a residence with the luxury of hotel service.
    • There is a bay-side bar and a private rooftop bar.  One is more for the day, the other is for the night.
    • Asia De Cuba is the 5* restaurant you’ll not want to miss.

    Prices from:

    £1,019 pp in low season

    £1,139 pp in high season

  107. Special Offer

    The Raleigh is among the many architectural treasures that have survived from Miami’s golden age; today it still embodies the dual art deco philosophy of seductive show and the art of living. The result is neither loud nor flashy, but memorable in a more subtle way – like an exquisitely tailored suit, whose quality, originality and impeccable taste reveal themselves without the need for fanfare.

    And it has the pool – immortalised in the movies of synchronised swimmer Esther Williams; voted by Travel&Leisure magazine as one of the ten most beautiful in the world. This giant pastiche of baroque curves surrounded by Moroccan medjul palm trees can still decades on, elicit oohs and ahs from new guests taken with the sensational impact of the jewel like Art Deco lagoon.

    A consummate mix of style and understatement, of elegance and comfort, of glamour and warmth, an original Art Deco jewel.

    Photos of Raleigh on the Ocean

    • Lauded by Life magazine in the fifties as the most glamorous pool in Florida, it still, more than six decades later, elicits oohs and ahs from new guests.
    • Lauded by Life magazine in the fifties as the most glamorous pool in Florida, it still, more than six decades later, elicits oohs and ahs from new guests.
    • Among the many architectural treasures that have survived from Miami’s golden age, the Raleigh has always been able to claim the best bones.
    • Lauded by Life magazine in the fifties as the most glamorous pool in Florida, it still, more than six decades later, elicits oohs and ahs from new guests.

    Prices from:

    £915 pp in low season

    £1,065 pp in high season

  108. Designed by famed British architect David Chipperfield, merging two existing beach front properties with a brand new, purpose-built tower, Schrager later added his signature touches.

    The whole of the ground floor, leading all the way to the beach, has been turned into one seamless nocturnal play zone for grown-ups. The lighting is low, with a few thousand candles; the music is seductive and the design is a mix of every ethnic style that has ever contributed to the culture of chilling out – Greek tavern stools, Moroccan daybeds, Rajasthani palace chairs, African tribal stools, cushions and more cushions in hare Krishna colours. Rooms are loaded with the latest high-tech options, as well as more old-fashioned creature comforts such as plenty of closet space and enormous bathrooms.

    Redefining cool on Miami's South Beach, The Shore Club combines classic minimalist design with quirky twists.

    Photos of Shore Club

    • Loaded with the latest high-tech options, as well as more old-fashioned creature comforts such as plenty of closet space and enormous bathrooms.
    • The whole of the ground floor, leading all the way to the beach, has been turned into one seamless nocturnal play zone for grown-ups.
    • One of the most ambitious South Beach hotel projects to date

    Prices from:

    £949 pp

    £1,099 pp

  109. Soho Beach House

    Miami, USA

    The Soho Beach House stands resplendent on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, juxtaposed against a never ending azure sky.

    As one of the hotel’s discerning guests you’ll be invited to spend your time as you please however, it wouldn’t be a trip to Miami without stepping foot onto the delicious white sand and letting the Ocean tickle your toes. Alternatively, you may wish to relax by the super long swimming pool, get hot and sweaty at the gym or feel the love at the wellness and beauty spa.

    If you’d prefer to experience the beach from afar, guest bedrooms range from bayside to beachside and all offer a view that is designed with nature in mind. The décor has a real vintage vibe going on with textiles and furniture that swing you right back to South America in its Art Deco heyday.

    The retro Latin theme continues throughout the building and is certainly upheld in the cool and stylish drawing room on the first floor. Comfortable sofas, armchairs and cushions galore, provide the perfect space to relax, try a cocktail or Cuban coffee, and enjoy the gentle tinkling of the Grand’s ivories.

    For more amazing views, in a refined and strictly adults-only setting, take a trip to the eighth floor where you’ll find a wood panelled library, private dining area and outdoor terrace bar that comes complete with plunge pool.

    After a hard day listening to the sound of the sea it’s easy to work up an appetite and Cecconi’s world renowned Italian restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, 7 days a week. If you’ve been lucky enough to visit either the London or Hollywood restaurants then you’ll know that you’re in for a treat. Just make sure you leave room for the cicchetti and dolci menu that is served in the bar around midnight.

    Art-Deco luxury that’s right on the beach with exceptional views of the Ocean.

    Photos of Soho Beach House

    • 16 stories of Art-Deco style and sophistication.
    • 16 stories of Art-Deco style and sophistication.
    • Plenty of natural light, glamorous vintage furnishings, modern amenities and wonderful views of the Bay and Ocean.
    • Poolside you’ll find the casual Tiki bar whilst inside you have the wood panelled drawing room on the first floor and the outdoor terrace bar on floor number eight.
    • A private, guests-only, corner of Miami Beach overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

    Prices from:

  110. W South Beach

    Miami, USA

    Beach blanket Babylon. With 300 feet of ocean front, the W is the latest and perhaps most contemporary “player” on the South Beach scene.
    The rehabilitation of Miami South Beach continues unabated. With ten continuous miles of beach front it will be a long time before this part of the world has no more room for expansion.
    With each new property the stakes go up. Whereas cutting-edge design has been the norm for at least a decade and a half, cutting-edge architecture is the new benchmark and the W South Beach has set the bar very high.
    The name of the game in today’s Miami is features; lots of features. You are not a “player” unless you have at least more than one of everything. The W, not surprisingly, has six bars, two very large public pools, a handful of private pools, two restaurants of different themes, a state-of-the-art spa on three levels, a monumental gym, a W store, and 334 rooms.

    Beach blanket Babylon. With 300 feet of ocean front, the W is the latest and perhaps most contemporary “player” on the South Beach scene.

    Photos of W South Beach

    • The name of the game is features; lots of features. Not surprisingly, The W boasts six bars, 2 pools, 2 restaurants, spa on 3 levels and 334 rooms.
    • The name of the game is features; lots of features. Not surprisingly, The W boasts six bars, 2 pools, 2 restaurants, spa on 3 levels and 334 rooms.
    • At the W, an all condo hotel, it’s all about the space and the view…of the turquoise sea, just outside the floor to ceiling glass windows.
    • Mr Chow is the Florida outpost of famous Mr Chow’s in LA.  Solea is all about Spanish cuisine; an innovative mix of traditional dishes and more modern inventive plates.
    • An indulgent, tropical oasis with private cabanas to rent for that added touch of glamour.

    Prices from:

    £1,079 pp in low season

    £1,319 pp in high season

  111. Calistoga Ranch, Napa Valley

    Napa Valley, USA

    The California, north of San Francisco, is all about wilderness, with a capital W. Lush forests, green hills and an abundance of rivers, lakes and brooks, is the signature of the secluded canyons of the upper Napa Valley. Calistoga Ranch is a rarefied retreat dropped into the middle of these great outdoors. It’s a collection of forty eight free standing lodges sprinkled across an estate of a 157 acres with a footprint that could best be summed up as “touch the earth lightly”.

    The accommodation is that heavenly combination of luxury amidst natural beauty and tranquillity. Each lodge has its own fireplace, cedar deck, floor to ceiling windows framing the forest and an outdoor shower garden.

    The Lakehouse – a restaurant exclusively reserved for guests of Calistoga Ranch overlooking Lake Lommel – is dedicated to fresh local produce and an extensive wine list.

    Napa Valley is well known for its culture of wine and cuisine, and for its charismatically attractive nature. Calistoga Ranch is simply an extension of what is already there.

    Photos of Calistoga Ranch, Napa Valley

    • It is difficult to imagine a more profound and appropriate introduction to these surroundings.
    • It is difficult to imagine a more profound and appropriate introduction to these surroundings.
    • Forty eight free standing guest lodges comprise are warm and stylish boxes built to enhance your experience the pristine natural surroundings.
    • Nestled in a secluded upper Napa Valley canyon in forested surroundings.
    • A heated pool is complete with poolside deck for lounging and light dining.

    Prices from:

    £1,429 pp in low season

    £1,599 pp in high season

  112. Chambers Hotel

    New York, USA

    The art consciousness that one would expect from SoHo or Tribeca has been mixed with the more formal, well dressed profile of a 5th Avenue address. Chambers is in one of the most desirable Midtown areas – on the northern frontier just below Central Park.

    Architect David Rockwell was brought in to realise an interior to go with the art. The property features a substantial permanent collection of contemporary art. A fascinating mix of photography, painting, works on paper and sculpture, the likes of which you would normally not find in one place.

    With raw concrete ceilings, industrial lamps bolted to the walls and polished concrete floors in the bathroom, the interiors are not what you would expect from a hotel around the corner from Tiffany’s. But that’s exactly why it works.

    Chambers, located in the heart of midtown, offers a seamless fusion of uptown luxury and downtown cool.

    Photos of Chambers

    • Chambers, located in the heart of midtown, offers a seamless fusion of uptown luxury and downtown cool.
    • Chambers, located in the heart of midtown, offers a seamless fusion of uptown luxury and downtown cool.
    • Architect David Rockwell, a veteran of some very famous restaurant installations, was brought in to realise an interior to go with the art.
    • Enjoy a drink at the lobby or Balcony Bar of Má Pêche
    • The exciting new restaurant Má Pêche, designed by Thomas Schlesser, brings downtown character to midtown

    Prices from:

    £1,049 pp in low season (Jan-Aug)

    £1,099 pp in high season (Sep-Dec)

  113. Eventi

    New York, USA

    Special Offer

    Billing itself as “living the dream”, Eventi is the first new and substantial hotel to have emerged in New York’s Chelsea area.

    Photos of Eventi

    • Billing itself as “living the dream”, Eventi is the first new and substantial hotel to have emerged in New York’s Chelsea area
    • Billing itself as “living the dream”, Eventi is the first new and substantial hotel to have emerged in New York’s Chelsea area
    • Contemporary, fabulously comfortable and with floor to ceiling windows
    • The new high tech, innovative FoodParc showcases street food in a whole new way

    Prices from:

    £959 pp in low season

    £999 pp in high season

  114. Gramercy Park Hotel

    New York, USA

    When the Hotel first opened its doors in 1925 it quickly became the place for artists, adventurers and bon vivants to rub elbows. Babe Ruth liked to drink at the bar, Humphrey Bogart was married here and Mark Twain liked to play pool in the park. The Gramercy was not so much designed as collected; voluptuous velvet curtains suspended from bronze rods, hand tufted rugs, colours inspired by the renaissance, juxtaposed with daring contemporary art. The overwhelming ambience is that of an artist’s lair. Exciting and original public spaces where guests can enjoy two bars, the rooftop garden Gramercy Terrace with both indoor and outdoor lounging and dining space, a new Danny Meyer restaurant and as a resident, albeit temporary, you will be given keyed access to the Park itself!

    The only private park in New York, Gramercy Park was inspired by the glamour and charm of a London square.

    Photos of Gramercy Park Hotel

    • A bohemian hangout in one of the most eccentric parts of Manhattan, overlooking the city’s only private park.
    • A bohemian hangout in one of the most eccentric parts of Manhattan, overlooking the city’s only private park.
    • Hand tufted rugs, velvet curtains and Renaissance colours are juxtaposed with daring, contemporary art. The rooms were created by the eye of an artist.
    • The Rose bar and Jade bar have soaring spaces that combine the intimacy of candlelight with the intensity of work by Schnabel, Warhol and Hirst.
    • 2010 sees the opening of a new restaurant by award-winning chef Danny Meyer. The food is inspired by the chef’s love of Italy.

    Prices from:

    £1,035 pp

    Complimentary hosted Wine and Hors d'oeuvres daily

  115. Hotel on Rivington

    New York, USA

    Special Offer

    Built from scratch by a creative team, The Marcel Wanders designed entrance is a hit, the completely off the wall Thor restaurant on the ground floor is consistently voted in New York’s top 100, and the rooms, with their all yellow or all black bathrooms are a sumptuously spacious alternative to smaller spaces elsewhere in Manhattan.



    Thor is the Viking God of the area, a thunderbolt of a restaurant enhanced by Wanders’ wild wallpaper and his outhouse in the middle of the space. But the real plus of Hotel on Rivington came as a surprise to everyone, including the owners. There had never been a tower in this area, so no one knew that it would have such an amazing view. A view of New York’s famous skyline from a completely new perspective.

    Situated right in the middle of the Lower East Side, Hotel on Rivington is a study in contrast; a shiny glass and steel tower in a neighbourhood of tenement buildings

    Photos of Hotel on Rivington

    • Situated right in the middle of the Lower East Side, a shiny glass and steel tower in a neighbourhood of tenement buildings
    • Situated right in the middle of the Lower East Side, a shiny glass and steel tower in a neighbourhood of tenement buildings
    • The rooms, with their all yellow or all black bathrooms are a sumptuously spacious alternative to smaller spaces elsewhere in Manhattan
    • A lively bar scene for guests and locals into the late hours
    • The completely off the wall Thor restaurant on the ground floor is consistently voted in New York’s top 100

    Prices from:

    £849 per person

    Add an extra night for free for stays in January and February with our Stay 4 pay 3 offer

  116. Soho House Hotel

    New York, USA

    The rules are simple, if you’re not a guest you cannot eat in the restaurant, swim in the pool, lunch on the roof, have a drink in the bar, watch a film in the private screening room, throw a private party in the library, or chill out in the Cowshed – the club’s famous spa… unless you’re a member. But one thing it is not, is stuffy. As a club, it has managed to attract the kind of people that normally never belong to clubs. Film directors, writers, artists, creative types in all fields make up the member roster, and yet Soho is not painfully arty either.

    The look, if it has to be defined as such, is a mix of laid back modern and iconic antique, with the odd bit of bling. The rooms are bohemian loft with soaring ceilings, exposed beams, chandeliers and big, baroque carved beds. The Playhouse and Playground rooms have giant egg-shaped baths big enough for two. But more important than how it looks is how it feels with just the right balance of cosy and trendy.

    Soho House is not a hotel, it’s a private club – the hottest private club in New York – that happens to have a small hotel.

    Photos of Soho House

    • This converted warehouse is part private members’ club, part swish hotel, and shot to fame when it was featured in an episode of Sex and the City.
    • This converted warehouse is part private members’ club, part swish hotel, and shot to fame when it was featured in an episode of Sex and the City.
    • Soho House gives you bohemian loft – big, baroque carved beds, egg shaped tubs, French style cupboards, 50s consoles, 60s lamps.
    • The Library on the fifth floor with its own bar
    • Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in The Club, an expanse of original wooden flooring broken up into a lounge, bar and dining-room on the sixth floor.

    Prices from:

    £1,199 pp

    Upgrade to a Playroom from £89pppn

  117. The Carlyle is the Upper East Side, and vice versa. All the values of patrician New York are the qualities that define The Carlyle. Woody Allen can often be found jamming on his clarinet with the Eddy Davis New Orleans Jazz Band in the Café Carlyle (resident caberet jazz/venue) on a Monday night. A neighbourhood that has a world class museum on practically every other corner, not to mention the proximity of Central Park, The Upper East Side is interesting precisely because it's not like the rest of New York. The doormen with their traditional brass-buttoned coats and caps, school children in blazers and ties, discreet little restaurants tucked into the brownstones on gentrified side streets, and, of course, the shopping, all give this part of New York a signature as distinctive as the tenement housing of the Lower East Side.

    One of New York's most genuine and charismatic experiences.

    Photos of The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel

    • This hotel offers one of New York's most genuine and charismatic experiences, and has been home to society leaders for many years.
    • This hotel offers one of New York's most genuine and charismatic experiences, and has been home to society leaders for many years.
    • The rooms are refined – designed by many a famous name and updated to add a contemporary touch.
    • Bemelmans Bar is a true New York experience. Woody Allen can often be found jamming with his clarinet in the Carlyle Café on a Monday night.
    • A favourite of east side socialites, the restaurant offers elegant eating with a nod to English manor house dining.

    Prices from:

    £1,039 pp in low season

    £1,089 pp in high season

  118. The Greenwich Hotel

    New York, USA

    Special Offer

    Robert De Niro, a long term resident of TriBeCa, the city’s most sought after neighbourhood, has created the area’s iconic hotel with the look and feel of a chic members club

    Photos of The Greenwich Hotel

    • A hotel that feels and looks like a chic members club.  Old money, quality and charm instead of new money bling.
    • A hotel that feels and looks like a chic members club.  Old money, quality and charm instead of new money bling.
    • Eighty eight rooms and yet no two are alike.  Hand loomed Tibetan silk rugs, Moroccan tiles, built in libraries, results in a hotel that feels like a film director’s house.
    • Enjoy a drink in the lounge area with eclectic furniture and original artwork.
    • Locanda Verde –in the style of a neighbourhood Italian tavern with a wood burning oven, chairs and tables on the sidewalk and an open kitchen.

    Prices from:

    £1,195 pp

    Beautiful downtown hotel

  119. The Mark

    New York, USA

    If you’re longing to combine contemporary New York chic with the avant-garde style of the 1920’s, then look no further.

    Photos of The Mark

    • A beautiful and elegant 1920’s landmarked building that is designed to offer guests the ultimate in contemporary and classic designer luxury
    • A beautiful and elegant 1920’s landmarked building that is designed to offer guests the ultimate in contemporary and classic designer luxury
    • Each room and suite consists of modern amenities with all furnishings personally hand-chosen by legendary French interior designer Jacques Grange
    • With some of the classiest signature cocktails on the Upper East Side, this is one of the hippest joints in town
    • Award-winning chef, Jacques Grange, has created an inspired menu ranging from signature classics to international masterpieces

    Prices from:

    £1,069 in low season

    £1,279 in high season

  120. The Standard, New York

    New York, USA

    The 18-storey structure consisting of two concrete-framed glass slabs recalls mid-century modernist but the most interesting aspect is how this building interacts with the High Line, an abandoned 80-year-old elevated freight railroad running down Manhattan’s west side that has been converted into a park for locals and tourists to kick back.

    The glass means the interiors have floor-to-ceiling views; of the Hudson to the West, MePa topped by the Empire State to the East and the High Line directly below. Every room maximises its view, none more so than the double height glass-encased space on the 18th floor that will open up in 2010 as an exclusive venue for guests and those on the list!

    In an area now so well known for its food, its obvious that even the most eye-popping architecture and a view will only get you so far. The rest is up to the restaurant.

    Located in MePa - currently New York’s hottest restaurant and bar scene – the new Standard is described by the New York Observer as "the most unusual and significant New York building in years".

    Photos of The Standard, New York

    • A monumental piece of architecture dedicated to mid-century modernism and the hottest bar and restaurant neighbourhood in New York.
    • A monumental piece of architecture dedicated to mid-century modernism and the hottest bar and restaurant neighbourhood in New York.
    • The rooms are compact, stylish boxes with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame some of the best and newest views in Manhattan.
    • The Living Room is a comfortably modish designed lounge overlooking a grand plaza serves beverages and cocktails with live DJs.
    • The Standard Grill has become the new place to eat in MePa, by combining the talents of chef Dan Silverman (ex Lever House) with an uber-hip aesthetic.

    Prices from:

    £1,039 pp in low season

    £1,199 pp in high season

  121. The Surrey

    New York, USA

    Special Offer

    The Surrey combines the sensuous spirit of the 20’s with the contemporary style of the right here, right now.

    Photos of The Surrey

    • Recently refurbished boutique hotel with designer luxury and contemporary decor throughout
    • Recently refurbished boutique hotel with designer luxury and contemporary decor throughout
    • Sumptuous bedding choices compliment spacious accommodation which often includes: kitchen, living area, private terracing, soaking tubs and over-sized showers
    • Drinks with your meal in the restaurant or cocktails on the roof terrace
    • Michelin-star dining using seasonal American ingredients combined with NYC cafe culture, French flair and world cuisines

    Prices from:

    £699 in low season

    £1,399 in high season

  122. Trump SoHo

    New York, USA

    Special Offer

    Located on Spring Street, you’re in SoHo but you’re also on the cusp of TriBeCa so all the most interesting bars, restaurants and shops in Manhattan are literally at your doorstep. Big by SoHo standards, the 46 story hotel offers views, a very happening bar scene, a spa and great dining, so posing the dilemma, to stay in or to go out?

    Three words distinguish the 391 guestrooms. Space. Glass. And Fendi. An average of 500 square feet guestrooms offer a lot of space and all the rooms have floor to ceiling windows. They are also the first rooms in Manhattan to have been furnished by Fendi better known for handbags and fur coats.

    If you have a Fendi interior you have to have an Italian restaurant. Quattro Gastronomia not surprisingly features authentic Northern Italian cuisine. Bar d’Eau as the name suggests is on the water. i.e. on the hotel’s 6000 square foot pool deck. The Library houses a whole load of art and design books and an intimate fireplace setting. The third bar is a cocktail lounge with mixologists that are popular enough for entry after 10 pm to be guest list only.

    Think of SoHo and you think cool, matte black, lofts and lattes; and when you think of Trump, you think big and bling. So no surprise then that Trump SoHo is a luxurious blend of the two.

    Photos of Trump SoHo

    • When you think of SoHo, you think cool, matte black, lofts and lattes; and when you think of Trump, you think big and bling… Trump SoHo is a luxurious blend of the two
    • When you think of SoHo, you think cool, matte black, lofts and lattes; and when you think of Trump, you think big and bling… Trump SoHo is a luxurious blend of the two
    • Rooms have floor to ceiling windows and are the first rooms in Manhattan to have been furnished by Fendi better known for handbags and fur coats
    • Trump SoHo has three bars. Bar d’Eau as the name suggests is on the water, in this case by the pool
    • The chefs are identical twins from the Piedmont region of Italy who first brought their ingredient driven cooking style to Quattro on Miami South Beach

    Prices from:

    £899 pp in low season (Jan-Aug)

    £1,329 pp in high season (Sep-Dec)

  123. Viceroy Hotel

    Palm Springs, USA

    Viceroy Palm Springs’ sixty-five rooms are spread out over surrounding grounds with a variety of studios, suites and private villas. Interior designer, Kelly Wearstler, opted to re-evoke the glamour of Hollywood's golden age. The style is a contemporary theatrical version of old European aristocratic decor: lots of chandeliers, formal drapery and Regency-style dining chairs, all transforming the Viceroy into a collage of stylish accommodation options.

    The grounds are landscaped in a Beverly Hills movie mogul manner, with three swimming pools (two for adults only), lots of palm trees, plenty of potted topiary, and enough ceramic whippets to fill a kennel!

    This desert town, framed by the San Jacinto Mountains, has been a magnet for creative and flamboyant individuals since the early 1920s.

    Photos of Viceroy Palm Springs

    • In practically any other setting Hollywood Regency would be a dubious design route, but in Palm Springs it works like a gem.
    • In practically any other setting Hollywood Regency would be a dubious design route, but in Palm Springs it works like a gem.
    • Guest rooms are sparkling white spaces
    • Sup cocktails, like the Popsicle Tini, in the bar itself, poolside or tucked up in a private pavilion
    • This desert town is once more a fashionable escape destination for well-heeled Los Angeles society

    Prices from:

    £879 pp

    Free night offer!

  124. Hotel Diva

    San Francisco, USA

    Everyone needs a bit of glam in their lives and San Francisco’s Hotel Diva has certainly got her fair share because from funky fittings to flirty furnishings this fashionista doesn’t do anything by halves.

    Photos of Hotel Diva

    • Fun, funky and stylish city hotel that caters for families, art lovers and fashion gurus alike.
    • Fun, funky and stylish city hotel that caters for families, art lovers and fashion gurus alike.
    • Recently refurbished rooms with designer comforts including: lush carpets, sculptured steel headboard and sumptuous linen.
    • Directly in Union Square surrounded by shops, theatres and galleries.

    Prices from:

  125. Intercontinental Mark Hopkins

    San Francisco, USA

    The Intercontinental Mark Hopkins is an American institution and the view is still probably the best in San Francisco.

    Photos of Intercontinental Mark Hopkins

    • The Mark Hopkins is an American institution and the view is still probably the best in San Francisco.
    • The Mark Hopkins is an American institution and the view is still probably the best in San Francisco.
    • Public areas have maintained the grandeur of a bygone age rooms have a modern, pared-down approach with all the latest amenities.
    • Enjoy breakfast (Sundays a Champagne brunch), lunch or light dinner with a view from The Top Of The Mark.
    • One thing has not changed at all: Number One Nob Hill is still the most prestigious address in San Francisco.

    Prices from:

    £999 per person in low season (Jan-Mar)

    £1,149per person in high season (May-Sep)

  126. W San Francisco

    San Francisco, USA

    Nobody would argue that San Francisco is a fun town. It has lots of bars and restaurants, a very famous Chinatown, and a reputation for European-style sophistication. The W, located just around the corner from Union Square, is in the heart of San Francisco’s shopping area, and just next door to the SFMOMA (San Francisco Museum of Modern Art).

    The new guest rooms are light and fanciful, and in sync with Northern Californian sunshine. It’s not the new décor however that makes the W such an attractive place to stay. Rather, it’s the ambience. There’s a snappy lively pace to the place, people are constantly on the move – for a quick coffee at the bar downstairs or breakfast in the restaurant, or some work on a laptop in the Adirondack chairs in the building’s outside foyer.

    The W in San Francisco has a real buzz, just like the city itself.

    Photos of W San Francisco

    • The W in San Francisco has a real buzz, just like the city itself.
    • The W in San Francisco has a real buzz, just like the city itself.
    • The new guest rooms are light and fanciful, and in sync with Northern Californian sunshine.
    • Restaurant image
    • Just around the corner from Union Square, heart of San Francisco’s shopping area, and just next door to San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

    Prices from:

    £959 per person

  127. Donovan House

    Washington D.C., USA

    This is a fabulous opportunity to indulge in cuisine, luxury and designer style just moments from the heart of Washington DC.

    Photos of Donovan House

    • Sleek and sexy hotel offering the latest in designer decor, pan-Asian cuisine and fabulous service
    • Sleek and sexy hotel offering the latest in designer decor, pan-Asian cuisine and fabulous service
    • One king or queen bed with custom-made linen, marble bathroom, cocoon shower and modern amenities such as LCD TV and iPod docking station
    • Speciality cocktails throughout the day and night at the rooftop bar or at Zentan
    • Linear design representing the stylish culinary skills of Chef Susur Lee who has produced an exceptional and innovative pan-Asian menu that is as daring as it is delicious

    Prices from:

    £579 pp in low season (Jan-Aug)

    £849 in high season (Sep-Dec)

  128. W Washington D.C.

    Washington D.C., USA

    Special Offer

    The most dramatic new hotel in DC since Watergate.

    Photos of W Washington D.C.

    • The W Washington has installed itself in a DC monument. Once known as Hotel Washington, it has hosted Inaugural Balls – for Presidents Clinton and Reagan
    • The W Washington has installed itself in a DC monument. Once known as Hotel Washington, it has hosted Inaugural Balls – for Presidents Clinton and Reagan
    • The W rooms mix a cool sense of contemporary style with all the multimedia features you expect from an up-to-the-minute business hotel, and the comforts associated with it. I.e. Hip but business like.
    • The Living Room is the W’s place to meet. It combines a laid back vibe with pin-striped upholstery, culinary tid-bits – by super Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten – and some bling from the Jewel Box Bar.
    • What could be more appropriate than a steak house? There is authority and gravitas to slicing your way through a slab of prime rib… and J&G Steakhouse brings the refinement of Michelin star culinary culture.

    Prices from:

    £879 pp in low season

    £945 pp in high season

  129. Intercontinental Westlake

    Hanoi, Vietnam

    Set on the very waterfront of Hanoi’s West Lake it gives the illusion of floating on water. The hotel is in a world of its own yet the historic centre of Hanoi is only a ten-minute taxi ride away.

    Guest rooms are surprisingly modern: a showcase of Vietnamese contemporary design with signature rich textures and vibrant colours. Rooms have all mod cons including LCD TVs and after a day of sightseeing quiet time with the views from your balcony is a must. When you do leave your room you’ll find a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a spa which includes a steam bath and an extensive menu of treatments and three restaurants. Set on its own island in the lake, accessible only by torch lit bridge, the Sunset Bar is exactly what it says on the box; the perfect place for drinks at sunset.

    Overlooking the 800-year-old Golden Lotus Pagoda, the Intercontinental Westlake Hanoi is one of the most sublimely located city hotels in all of Asia.

    Photos of Intercontinental Westlake

    • Set on the very waterfront of Hanoi’s West Lake it gives the illusion of floating on water.
    • Set on the very waterfront of Hanoi’s West Lake it gives the illusion of floating on water.
    • Guest rooms are a showcase of Vietnamese contemporary design with signature rich textures and vibrant colours.
    • Set on its own island in the lake, accessible only by torch lit bridge, the Sunset Bar is exactly what it says on the box; the perfect place for drinks at sunset.
    • Situated on the banks of Hò Tây Lake, the hotel is only ten minutes from the historic centre of the city and forty minutes from Noi Bai Airport.

    Prices from:

    £999 pp

    Perfect as part of a tailormade Vietnam itinerary

  130. Park Hyatt Saigon

    Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

    A French colonial inspired gem in the heart Vietnam’s most influential and important city, Ho Chi Minh , formerly known as Saigon.

    Photos of Park Hyatt Saigon

    • A French colonial inspired gem in the heart Vietnam’s most influential and important city, Ho Chi Minh , formerly known as Saigon.
    • A French colonial inspired gem in the heart Vietnam’s most influential and important city, Ho Chi Minh , formerly known as Saigon.
    • All the rooms are styled in a colonial manner, with dark polished wood floors and white marble bathrooms.
    • Square One is an atmospheric restaurant on the mezzanine level that features authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
    • Xuan Spa is a 16,514 square foot facility that offers seven treatment rooms and a state-of-the-art fitness centre.

    Prices from:

    £1,179 pp

    Combine with Vietnam beach

  131. The Nam Hai

    Hoi An, Vietnam

    Special Offer

    It is also situated near the ancient river trading port of Hoi An, recently listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site because of its wealth of well preserved colonial buildings.

    Nam Hai is a collection of villas and beach houses on the Beach, with a view of the South China Sea and the distant Cham Islands. The sixty one-bedroom villas are distinguished by indoor and outdoor sitting areas, but the most innovative touch is a raised platform set in the middle of the rooms enclosed by mosquito netting that creates a room within a room.

    It is a luxurious resort that includes two gourmet restaurants, tennis, championship golf with clubhouse and a tropical spa, but it also offers something other parts of Asia cannot, namely cultural attractions that reflect the true spirit of Endochine, one of the least exploited areas of South East Asia.

    China Beach is evocative proof that Vietnam is a country of sublime beauty; a charismatic example of the gems that define Vietnam’s unspoiled coastline.

    Photos of The Nam Hai

    • Situated near the ancient trading port of Hoi An, China Beach is evocative proof that Vietnam is a country of sublime beauty.
    • Situated near the ancient trading port of Hoi An, China Beach is evocative proof that Vietnam is a country of sublime beauty.
    • The most innovative touch in the villas is the raised platform enclosed by mosquito netting that creates a room within a room.
    • Located on the upper level of the restaurant, the bar overlooks water gardens and the beach.
    • A beach restaurant on the sand offers, appropriately enough, fresh seafood and local fare.

    Prices from:

    £1,999 pp

    The ideal beach extension to a tour around Vietnam

  132. Vietnam’s coast is as yet undiscovered and virtually undeveloped. It’s certainly not deserted, but neither is it spoilt. A five-mile-long expanse of immaculate sand, is Evason Ana Mandara. From the road running along the beach you’d never even know it was there because its colonial Franco-Viet-style villas disappear among the foliage of the densely planted palm trees.

    Guests at Evason Ana Mandara are spread out over the fifty-odd-acre complex, where they can choose between two restaurants, a renowned spa, several bars and the swimming pool, not to mention the beach. Design-wise the place has a distinct Vietnamese signature: a blend of Chinese motifs, French colonial detailing and Vietnamese crafts. Restaurants at opposite ends of the beach contribute to the impression that Evason Ana Mandara is never too crowded.

    Reflects the image of an old Vietnamese village, with its warm hospitality, rich culture, unique tastes and spectacular views of Nha Trang Bay.

    Photos of Evason Ana Mandara - Vietnam

    • Evason Ana Mandara has a distinct Vietnamese signature: a blend of Chinese motifs, French colonial detailing and Vietnamese artisanal detailing.
    • Evason Ana Mandara has a distinct Vietnamese signature: a blend of Chinese motifs, French colonial detailing and Vietnamese artisanal detailing.
    • Guest bungalows feature a lofty ceiling height, Chinese –inspired furniture and a distinct Vietnamese signature.
    • Photo of bar
    • Dining rooms at opposite ends of the beach contribute to the impression that Evason Ana Mandara is never too crowded.

    Prices from:

    £1,665 pp

    Stay 7 Pay 5 for selected dates

  133. Six Senses Ninh Van Bay

    Nha Trang, Vietnam

    It's the perfect name. Situated on a hidden beach on a lush, mountainous peninsula overlooking a series of overlapping bays, the Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is exactly that – you would never even know it's there. Even as you approach it by boat – the only way to get there – you still need binoculars to pick out the buildings nestling in the dense foliage just behind the pristine sands.

    Everything about the design - architecture, building materials, manner of construction using interlocking wood with no nails or glue - was chosen with the aim of creating the ultimate escape. The result is a series of huts and houses that represent a new style of luxury: more rugged, raw and natural, with space and privacy as primary considerations … it's the ultimate beach fantasy.

    The ultimate barefoot beach shack on one of the most unspoiled coastlines in the world.

    Photos of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay

    • The ultimate barefoot beach shack on one of the most unspoiled coastlines in the world.
    • The ultimate barefoot beach shack on one of the most unspoiled coastlines in the world.
    • A series of huts and houses that represent a new style of luxury: more rugged, raw and natural, with space and privacy as prime considerations.
    • There are three restaurants, but dinner on your own terrace of your ‘Robinson Crusoe hut’ is a pervasively tempting option.

    Prices from:

    £2,449 pp

    Stay 6 Pay 4 for stays 16 Jan- 19 Dec 2011

  134. Cocoa Island

    Maldives, Maldives

    Cocoa Island is for people who want their paradise experience pure. No bling, no shopping, no underwater bars; just a great beach, great snorkelling and simple but delicious food.

    The beach, in fact, is better than great. It is possibly the whitest sand ever seen and it takes up more surface area than the island itself. It is, literally, brilliant, particularly when combined with the turquoise shade of the surrounding water.

    The snorkelling is definitely pure – pure Nemo. Just swim from your terrace and you will soon be in a giant aquarium. Big turtles, fish of every colour and pattern, and the odd baby sharks just to keep it interesting.

    Explore the water, explore the beach, read all the books you thought you never would, and that is the closest you will get to an agenda on this island.

    A pure paradise experience.

    Photos of Cocoa Island

    • Cocoa Island is for people who want their paradise experience pure.
    • Cocoa Island is for people who want their paradise experience pure.
    • Rooms are inspired by ‘Dhoni’ boats as used by local fishermen adjoined by simple wooden walkways built above the shallow ocean.

    Prices from:

    £2,099 pp in low season

    £2,835 pp in high season

  135. Huvafen Fushi

    Maldives, Maldives

    The first among these is the underwater spa. The LIME spa has glass spa treatment rooms that are literally underwater, so that guests can be surrounded by the world that makes the Maldives so special. Then there is Vinum, the underground wine cave with one of the best collections in Asia. There is a private beach residence called Cube, the library/lounge called The Lair and glass bottoms feature in all the water bungalows as well as in the hotel’s kayaks.
    If you imagine these are the main reasons for going to Huvafen Fushi, you would be wrong. The real star of this retreat is the Maldives, a collection of amoeba-like islands surrounded by startlingly white beaches and incredibly turquoise waters.

    If this hotel had been around in the Sixties the Beatles surely would have dedicated a psychedelic song to all its strange and dream-like qualities.

    Photos of Huvafen Fushi

    • A mad scientist’s luxury lair on a private island in the picture-postcard Maldives.
    • A mad scientist’s luxury lair on a private island in the picture-postcard Maldives.
    • A host of unique, all beautiful options.
    • The theme seems to be “too much is never enough”, and it continues with the many options for dining.
    • The Republic of Maldives consists of thousands of tiny islands spread over a vast distance in a purple, blue and turquoise sea.

    Prices from:

    £2,925 pp in low season

    £3,425 pp in high season

  136. One&Only Reethi Rah

    Maldives, Maldives

    Photos of One&Only Reethi Rah

    • Contemporary, comfortable and stylish villas located over the Indian Ocean or within detached, secluded areas on the white sandy beach.
    • Contemporary, comfortable and stylish villas located over the Indian Ocean or within detached, secluded areas on the white sandy beach.
    • A contemporary blend of minimalist Asian style and tropical island paradise.
    • By day, the Rah Bar offers guests a yummy menu of salads, wraps, snacks and smoothies and, by night, tropical cocktails, vintage rums and sparkling champagne!
    • The Reethi Restaurant has an incredible menu of Asian Pacific and Mediterranean cuisine and the Tapasake restaurant, situated over the ocean, has the best in Japanese delicacies

    Prices from:

    £3,355 pp in low season

    £5,225 pp in high season

  137. W Retreat & Spa

    Maldives, Maldives

    The W Retreat & Spa opted to go bling. Situated on Fesdu Island, North Ari Atoll, it’s the kind of place where your wife can wear a little Dolce & Gabbana number for dinner. W created an island that gets dressed up at night.

    The W Maldives brings a bit of city sophistication to paradise. For example, the over-water bungalows could be lofts in Manhattan, if it were not for the thatched roof, the private deck and a personal plunge pool. FIRE, the barbecue restaurant, lays claim to being the longest single grill in Asia. FISH is a much quieter affair, situated on a pier over the reef, it’s entirely illuminated by fibre optics embedded between the planks, and the food could give Nobu a run for its money.

    During the day it’s not just an island paradise; a speck of jungle surrounded by a white sand border in turquoise water, it also has some of the best snorkelling in the Maldives.

    “Theatrical, sexy, fun, W Retreat & Spa in the Maldives has made its mark by daring to be different”.

    Photos of W Retreat & Spa - Maldives

    • The W Retreat & Spa - Maldives, the first resort W, opted to go bling. W created an island that brings a bit of city sophistication to paradise.
    • The W Retreat & Spa - Maldives, the first resort W, opted to go bling. W created an island that brings a bit of city sophistication to paradise.
    • The W Maldives brings a bit of city sophistication to paradise.  The villas could be lofts in Manhattan, if it were not for the thatched roof.
    • For the bar/club aficionados there is an unusual choice.  Buried under the beach is an underground nightclub.
    • FIRE, the barbecue restaurant, lays claim to being the longest single grill in Asia.

    Prices from:

    £2,289 pp in low season

    £3,609 pp in high season

  138. Angsana Balaclava

    Mauritius, Mauritius

    Check your stresses and strains in at the front door as you enter the white sand world of Mauritius. This is the ultimate luxury beach holiday and perfect for those in need of some well-deserved rest and relaxation.

    Photos of Angsana Balaclava

    • Luxury villa and suite resort featuring spa, dining and luxury comforts.
    • Luxury villa and suite resort featuring spa, dining and luxury comforts.
    • All rooms include contemporary fixtures and fittings as well as stylish decor to enhance the natural garden or beach setting.
    • Alfresco terrace bar serving cocktails and international brand drinks.
    • Five dining choices incorporating the finest fusion, Asian and international cuisine in the most idyllic of settings: poolside, beachside, restaurant or in-room.

    Prices from:

    £1,799 in low season (may-oct)

    £2,149 in high season (nov-april)

  139. Le Touessrok Suites

    Mauritius, Mauritius

    The most secluded of the hotels in Mauritius, Le Touessrok is also the best equipped. The hotel boasts its own 18-hole golf course designed by Bernhard Langer. The place is dramatic and a touch theatrical. Many guests have written about the experience of arriving to be greeted by the massive banyan tree decorated with lanterns and gongs that stands guard at the entrance.

    The most distinctive feature of Le Touessrok however, apart from the impressive facilities like the four beaches, two swimming pools, a famous kids club and a fully comprehensive spa, is that the Frangipani Suites are located on a private islet; a Kasbah-style village resort set off the east coast, connected by a covered bridge to the hotel’s public areas on the mainland.

    The place is dramatic and a touch theatrical.

    Photos of Le Touessrok Suites

    • The hotel is legendary, a Mauritian institution.
    • The hotel is legendary, a Mauritian institution.
    • Safran offers contemporary interpretations of classic Indian cuisine from Michelin starred Atul Kochhar.
    • Located on the eastern side of the isle, Trou d’Eau Douce Bay has 4 beaches and a private island retreat.

    Prices from:

    £1,839 pp

    Includes Half Board

  140. Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa

    Mauritius, Mauritius

    It’s a peaceful, romantic setting that encapsulates all that is so attractive about Mauritius, including a turquoise lagoon and a sandy beach surrounded by tropical gardens and framed by the verdant green rainforests of the island’s volcanic mountains.

    Apart from the natural beauty, the thing that sets Maradiva apart is that all the guests are accommodated in private villas. These “cocoons of luxury” each feature their own infinity-edge plunge pool, a private patio and a 24-hour butler service. The name of the game at Maradiva is peace and privacy. This is not a destination for people who want to meet and mingle. It is an escape that provides a much needed tonic to the stress and speed of contemporary city life.

    Maradiva, overlooking Tamarin Bay, is situated on the west coast of Mauritius, famous for its sunsets and for its dry, warm climate, even in winter.

    Photos of Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa

    • A collection of exclusive villas arranged along an idyllic lagoon on the drier, sunnier west coast of the island.
    • A collection of exclusive villas arranged along an idyllic lagoon on the drier, sunnier west coast of the island.
    • 65 villas are carefully arranged and oriented to allow ultimate privacy.
    • The bar is called Breakers, situated next to the infinity pool; a lounge bar with an intimate jazz-fuelled atmosphere.
    • There are two; The Cilantro is a Pan Asian restaurant that features Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese and Indian Cuisine.  Coast2Coast is an all day alfresco restaurant that focuses on a mix of Mediterranean and Mauritian dishes.

    Prices from:

    £3,265 pp in low season

    £3,399 pp in high season

  141. The Oberoi Resort

    Mauritius, Mauritius

    Special Offer

    Of the top three hotels in Mauritius, The Oberoi is all about the beach and its intimate beach coves. Apart from its setting in 20 lush acres, its dominant feature is its more than half a kilometre of beachfront. Located in the less touristy northwest corner of the island along the Baie aux Tortues or Turtle Bay. The hotel offers a comprehensive selection of spa treatments for those looking to indulge in a bit of R&R, with guests raving in particular about the hotel’s signature paillasson (coconut) massage.

    The main restaurant features a soaring roof of palm-thatched timbers and offers panoramic views across the Indian Ocean. As all the food is excellent, the main choice you have to make is whether to dine inside among the pillars, or outside under the stars.

    The Oberoi is a beach resort for people who have no intention of roughing it.

    Photos of The Oberoi

    • The Oberoi is a beach resort for people who have no intention of roughing it.

    Prices from:

    £1,749in low season (may-oct)

    £2,689 in high season (nov-april)

  142. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

    Dubai and Beyond, Dubai

    As a guest here your luxurious suite comes complete with huge bathroom, sitting area, custom made super king-size bed, entrance foyer, veranda and a private swimming pool.

    There is something quite mesmerising about navigating the wind-blown peaks and troughs of a fine sand desert, it awakens a sense of adventure and mystery, and freedom. At Al Maha there is no target or agenda, it’s just driving in the desert in whatever direction takes your fancy, and Al Maha is particularly well equipped for it. They operate a fleet of high end 4 wheel drive vehicles for covering as much of the desert as possible but there are other ways to get around. Experience the romance of dunes at sunrise from horseback and camel treks in the afternoon (in style, with champagne stop at sunset!). Guests can choose two complimentary activities per night stay included in the package.

    Every guest that comes to Al Maha leaves with the same conclusion; "The desert is a very special place".

    Photos of Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai

    • The hotel is set in a chunk of land dedicated to the preservation of the desert and its indigenous species.
    • The hotel is set in a chunk of land dedicated to the preservation of the desert and its indigenous species.
    • As a guest your suite comes complete with huge bathroom, sitting area, entrance foyer, veranda, swimming pool etc.

    Prices from:

    £1,535 pp in low season

    £2,039 pp in high season

  143. Armani Hotel Dubai

    Dubai and Beyond, Dubai

    Special Offer

    This is a hotel where every element; the look, the touch, the taste and the quality, reflect the style and spirit of Giorgio Armani. Located in Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building that is the centrepiece of the new downtown of Dubai, the Armani Hotel Dubai occupies eleven floors. Elegance, sophistication and comfort are the cornerstones of this brand new property. Materials such as stone, zebrawood, Venetian plaster and various fabrics and leathers have been chosen by Armani for their sculptural and tactile qualities. Although renowned as a fashion designer, Armani’s style when it comes to his various homes has attracted almost as much attention over the years as his clothes. His signature blend of strikingly modern mixed with classically graceful works as well in his townhouse in Milan as it does in his sun-scorched retreat on the Mediterranean island of Pantelleria. It is this very personal sense of domestic style that he brings to the hotel.

    The world’s first Armani hotel, designed by Giorgio Armani himself, is exclusively located in world’s tallest tower.

    Photos of Armani Hotel Dubai

    • To stay at the Armani Hotel is to experience his unique take on personal life, a privilege that until now was only available to his house guests.
    • To stay at the Armani Hotel is to experience his unique take on personal life, a privilege that until now was only available to his house guests.
    • Regardless of size, they all strike the trademark Armani balance of form, function, beauty and practicality.
    • The Armani Lounge is for dinner aperitivos, Milanese style.
    • The Armani Hotel Dubai takes up eleven floors of Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest building.

    Prices from:

    £2,835 pp in low season

    £4,239 pp in high season

  144. Burj Al Arab

    Dubai and Beyond, Dubai

    Special Offer

    Iconic sail architecture housing one of the world’s most opulent and luxurious hotels.

    Photos of Burj Al Arab

    • Iconic sail architecture housing one of the world’s most opulent and luxurious hotels.
    • Iconic sail architecture housing one of the world’s most opulent and luxurious hotels.
    • Huge suites offering exceptional service, state-of-the-art amenities, separate living areas and basically everything that you could wish for.
    • Juna lounge, Junsui restaurant and Skyview bar offer everything from whiskies and cocktails to afternoon tea.
    • Six award-winning restaurants with Michelin star trained chefs, contemporary international menus and some of the most opulent decor known to man.

    Prices from:

    £1,699 pp in low season

  145. Desert Palm

    Dubai and Beyond, Dubai

    Special Offer

    Picture the romance of a lush green polo estate in the middle of Arabia.

    Photos of Desert Palm

    • Luxury resort set amidst a polo estate in the deserts of Dubai.
    • Luxury resort set amidst a polo estate in the deserts of Dubai.
    • 38 guest rooms comprising of villas and suites. Each room is elegantly furnished and contains contemporary amenities. Villas have their own pools and private terrace areas.
    • Custom cocktails, contemporary blends and international beers at ‘Red’ Bar and Lounge.
    • Two different dining experiences featuring: caviar, Mediterranean and grills at the Rare to lighter options at the Epicure Gourmet Market.

    Prices from:

    £649 in low season (may-oct)

    £829 in high season (nov-apr)

  146. Madinat Dar Al Masyaf

    Dubai and Beyond, Dubai

    Dar Al Masyaf is for the guest who seeks privacy within an authentic, Middle Eastern, intimate setting.

    Photos of Madinat Dar Al Masyaf

    • While everything in Dubai is getting taller and shinier, Dar Al Masyaf has returned to its roots. It provides guests with the privacy, culture and experience that recalls the rich traditions of Arabia.
    • While everything in Dubai is getting taller and shinier, Dar Al Masyaf has returned to its roots. It provides guests with the privacy, culture and experience that recalls the rich traditions of Arabia.
    • There are two types of accommodation at Dar Al Masyaf; the Arabian Summer Houses that are built around a courtyard, and the Gulf Summer Houses that offer access to the beach.
    • Khaymat Al Bahar – literally ‘the tent of the beach’, is a reflection of Bedouin structure and it serves the beach and pool during the day and into the night.
    • Al Muna offers an authentic Arabian ambience for an international offering with regional overtones.

    Prices from:

    £1,215 pp in low season

    £1,799 pp in high season

  147. One & Only Hotel

    Dubai and Beyond, Dubai

    Here the scale is still old world, and harks back to a time when Dubai was a fishing village. One&Only has truly created an oasis, and to their credit they have made sure it is in an Arabic style.

    A lot of thought has been given to the entertainment of the guests. That’s why the swimming pools are as large as lakes, and the Nina restaurant, a colourful Oriental number, serves Euro-Indian fusion food. Then there are the bars. The rooftop bar has a Bedouin tent-like interior on the roof to allow guests to enjoy a night time view of Dubai’s ever-changing skyline.

    As a guest you feel special. And with this they have achieved the most genuine of all Bedouin traits, a natural sense of hospitality.

    The One&Only Royal Mirage looks like a fantasy and works like a dream. An Oasis offering a genuine sense of hospitality.

    Photos of One&Only Residence

    • One&Only has truly created an oasis of gardens, beautiful fountains and exotic trees.
    • One&Only has truly created an oasis of gardens, beautiful fountains and exotic trees.
    • A Bedouin tent-like interior has been created at the rooftop bar which allows guests to enjoy a night time view of Dubai’s ever-changing skyline.
    • Nina restaurant, a colourful Oriental number, serves Euro-Indian fusion food
    • The swimming pools are as large as lakes.

    Prices from:

    £1,439 pp in low season

    £2,365 pp in high season

  148. One&Only The Palm

    Dubai and Beyond, Dubai

    Special Offer

    An elegant, secluded enclave on Dubai’s most sought after peninsula.

    Photos of One&Only The Palm

    • The Palm is a rare luxury: a secluded, stylish and very private resort surrounded by gardens, fountains and beaches.
    • The Palm is a rare luxury: a secluded, stylish and very private resort surrounded by gardens, fountains and beaches.
    • 101 is the over water chill out lounge with day beds and a bar.  It is a place for Tapas and cocktails and at night there is a spectacular view of the city’s skyline.
    • Three superb restaurants – ZEST, STAY by Yannick Alléno and 101.
    • Situated on the fringe of The Palm - the most sought after residential address in Dubai – the One & Only is in a world of its own.

    Prices from:

    £1,379 pp in low season (may-oct)

    £1,929 pp in high season (nov-apr)

  149. Park Hyatt Dubai

    Dubai and Beyond, Dubai

    The same patch of palm trees and rolling green lawns that host the hotel is also the venue for Dubai’s yacht club and its premier golf course. Here you have the space and facilities to enjoy Dubai’s sunshine and climate,this is probably the best location in town.

    There are three restaurants, choose from middle eastern, Thai or modern-European cuisine, or kick back on The Terrace, an indoor-outdoor venue with a raw bar and marina views. The Amara Spa is styled on a Moroccan palace and opens out onto a serene pool and deck; at night it’s torch-lit, perfect for a swim in the Arabian Night!

    The guest rooms are among the most attractive in Dubai. They are like contemporary lofts with an Arabic twist. The bathroom and bedroom are open-plan, and blend seamlessly into each other.

    Timeless modernity is mixed with Moroccan detailing - Park Hyatt Dubai is a luxury hotel in an Arabic style.

    Photos of Park Hyatt Dubai

    • A luxury hotel in Moorish Mediterranean style.
    • A luxury hotel in Moorish Mediterranean style.
    • Kick back on The Terrace, an indoor - outdoor venue with a raw bar and marina views.
    • Thai, Eastern and European Cuisine and The Terrace and Traiteur bar with Creek views.
    • Serene, palm fringed pool with hydrotherapy jets - lit by fire torches at night – very Arabian nights.

    Prices from:

    £1,089 pp in low season

    £1,279 pp in high season

  150. The Address Downtown

    Dubai and Beyond, Dubai

    The first truly urban hotel to emerge in the new Dubai.

    Photos of The Address Downtown

    • Big, bold, dramatic and very urban, the Address is the type of hotel you would expect to find in the centre of one of the world’s newest and shiniest cities.
    • Big, bold, dramatic and very urban, the Address is the type of hotel you would expect to find in the centre of one of the world’s newest and shiniest cities.
    • The look is best described as elegant contemporary – no frills, masculine blend, dark woods, geometric shapes and silk in muted shades.
    • The Addresses Chilled Infinity Pool cascades over five tiers with direct views of Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain.
    • With so many dining options you’ll be spoilt for choice.

    Prices from:

    £999 pp in low season

    £1,285 pp in high season

  151. The New Majestic, Singapore

    Singapore, Singapore

    At one time in Singapore’s recent history the drive to emerge as Asia’s most modern city state threatened to flatten all traces of its colonial past. Luckily the area now known as Singapore’s Old Chinatown survived largely intact, and these distinctive terraced houses have since become home to some of the city’s hippest clubs and most cutting edge restaurants – an environment where the New Majestic as a hotel is right at home.

    The story starts with 1929, a hotel around the corner which Loh Lik Peng opened in 2003, largely to be able to house his burgeoning collection of modern furniture. It broke all the rules and set the benchmark for any newcomers, which in this case was Peng himself, with his second property the New Majestic Hotel. It is bigger, better and more adventurous in terms of creativity.

    The New Majestic is a relaxed eclectic and highly artistic alternative to the city’s plethora of strictly business hotels.

    Photos of The New Majestic, Singapore

    • The New Majestic is a relaxed, eclectic and highly artistic boutique property, an alternative to the city’s plethora of strictly business hotels.
    • The New Majestic is a relaxed, eclectic and highly artistic boutique property, an alternative to the city’s plethora of strictly business hotels.
    • Every room was created by a different Asian artist or personality so they are anything but predictable. From a practical point of view the artistic inspiration does not get in the way of practical considerations so you’re not sacrificing comfort for creativity.
    • Award winning chef Yong Bing Ngen is at the helm of the Majestic Restaurant, which presents modern Cantonese cuisine with some of Singapore’s best wines.
    • Situated on the second floor, there are windows built into the pool that give you views of the diners and their meals below!

    Prices from:

    £1,179 pp

    Ideal as a stop over or city break

  152. The Scarlet, Singapore

    Singapore, Singapore

    Geeson Lawadinata, a friend of Peng, the proprietor of the New Majestic Hotel chose to go bold and baroque to cater to the night owl who prefers sumptuous overkill to pared down modernism.

    Nestled amidst the vibrant Club Street community of specialty shops, boutique spas, trendy restaurants and cafes, wine bars, antiques shops and art galleries, The Scarlet provides a completely different 5-star experience. Historic Erskine Road leads you to an original 1924 Art Deco building, whose architectural detailing have been expertly retained and lovingly restored.

    Inside, a variety of textures and colours are matched almost in wilful contradiction, to provide a mood which is dramatic, daring and bold. Ambient lighting evokes a dramatic mood with the creation of contrast between light and dark areas. This sums up the total experience of The Scarlet - unexpected yet welcoming.

    Red velvet, gold detailing and lots of shiny black, The Scarlet is a bling version of townhouse chic.

    Photos of The Scarlet, Singapore

    • A dark, romantic fantasy, The Scarlet is a collection of black painted terraced houses so if you like your hotels rich, red and rock and roll, then this is the place for you.
    • A dark, romantic fantasy, The Scarlet is a collection of black painted terraced houses so if you like your hotels rich, red and rock and roll, then this is the place for you.
    • A sexy opulent take on contemporary design.  Rooms and suites offer luxury while giving you the option to remain wired to the world.
    • A proper space for cocktails - a sexy culmination of gold, black and the odd bit of red.
    • “Desire” is an elegantly contemporary restaurant serving an inspired version of fusion cuisine and “Breeze” a rooftop seafood bar and grill, is a cosy sanctuary with views across Chinatown.

    Prices from:

    £1,135 pp

    HIP hotel in a Superb location

  153. Cowley Manor

    Cotswolds, England

    Within the heart of the Cotswolds countryside is a startling gem. You will find the spa, (with indoor and outdoor heated pool), that Conde Nast voted as one of the UK’s finest, a grand restaurant, 55 acres of Grade II listed gardens and spacious rooms. Oh….and the view…. is straight out of a Jane Austen novel. A sumptuously green park punctuated by enormous chestnuts an ornate lake and a neo classical water feature. Yet it’s the funky, clever, fun and simply wonderful contemporary design that surprises at every turn.

    Elegant and classic yet with wonderful startling modernity, a perfect example of a new style of country retreat

    Photos of Cowley Manor

    • Elegant and classic yet with wonderful startling modernity, a perfect example of a new style of country retreat
    • Elegant and classic yet with wonderful startling modernity, a perfect example of a new style of country retreat
    • The size of the rooms is consistent with an important English country house, but the interiors are an uncompromisingly modern space
    • A riot of colour, the funky bar also offers a huge sitting area and opens out to the terrace
    • Dine in a grand room with spectacularly high, colourful ceilings and gorgeous views of the grounds

    Prices from:

    £359 pp

    Indulge in the stunning English countryside.

  154. Linthwaite House Hotel

    Lake District, England

    Linthwaite House is a former Edwardian house tucked into fourteen acres of woodland and rolling hills with a supremely tranquil view of Lake Windermere.

    Photos of Linthwaite House Hotel

    • The setting of the house is like something from a fairytale, and as a hotel Linthwaite does its level best  to make sure the magic spell is never broken
    • The setting of the house is like something from a fairytale, and as a hotel Linthwaite does its level best  to make sure the magic spell is never broken
    • Surprisingly modern, the suites at Linthwaite House are a successful mix of modern, classic and cosy
    • Situated just off the terrace with its amazing views, the bar is in a conservatory that brings the beautiful outdoors of the Lake District inside
    • The dining room, all red, cosy and ecclectic brings a different ambience to the hotel at night, it is all about conversation and atmosphere

    Prices from:

    £389 pp

    Stunning hotel in the heart of the Lake District

  155. Bermondsey Square

    London, England

    Although this area has long been evolving into a mecca for fashion, design, boutiques and great food, this represents the first boutique hotel in Bermondsey.

    Photos of Bermondsey Square

    • Funky ‘new vintage’ boutique hotel that is exceptional value in a neighbourhood with some of London’s finest new art, food and culture
    • Funky ‘new vintage’ boutique hotel that is exceptional value in a neighbourhood with some of London’s finest new art, food and culture
    • Loft Suites pay homage to girls’ immortalised in 60s tunes (Ruby, Lily Jude, Eleanor and Lucy)
    • Alfie’s also has a bar with 120 cover outdoor terrace, always great for people watching
    • Alfie’s kitchen makes full use of the proximity to Borough Market – fresh produce into fine dishes

    Prices from:

    £255 pp

    Cool hotel set in an even cooler part of London

  156. One Aldwych, London

    London, England

    This elegant triangular building is one of the most important Edwardian buildings in London and is on the doorstep of Covent Garden and London’s vibrant theatre scene.

    Photos of One Aldwych

    • An architecture of gravitas, cutting edge technology, understated elegance, polished service, culinary choice, superb location - all these conspire to affirm Oscar Wilde's famous quip 'living well is the best revenge'
    • An architecture of gravitas, cutting edge technology, understated elegance, polished service, culinary choice, superb location - all these conspire to affirm Oscar Wilde's famous quip 'living well is the best revenge'
    • Designed as a modern sanctuary to the West End buzz, rooms are comfortable in a way that would suit even the most demanding guests
    • For espressos The Cinnamon Bar is an ideal daytime hangout, while for a buzzy atmosphere and fun evening environment, The Lobby Bar has a long list of cocktails made from fresh ingredients
    • Indigo is the mezzanine restaurant with fabulous modern European cuisine

    Prices from:

    £469 pp

    Award winning hotel in the heart of London

  157. The St James Hotel and Club started life as a gentleman’s club for international diplomats and the British aristocracy in 1857.

    Photos of St. James's Hotel and Club

    • The St James's Hotel and Club offers hospitality and accommodation as rich as its address
    • The St James's Hotel and Club offers hospitality and accommodation as rich as its address
    • Rooms that are elegant yet homely have all the design and technology features to welcome even the most discerning guest
    • Indulge in pre-theatre drinks, the bistro menu or - as you are in Mayfair - afternoon tea
    • Seven Park Place offers Michelin-star awarded, French inspired cuisine in a simply beautiful setting

    Prices from:

    £499 pp

    Intimate luxury in the heart of London

  158. The Zetter

    London, England

    Clerkenwell's contemporary bolthole. A small hotel completely in step with the area's new found reputation for design and creative edge.

    Photos of The Zetter

    • Clerkenwell's contemporary bolthole - a small hotel completely in step with the area's new found reputation for urban innovation and creative edge
    • Clerkenwell's contemporary bolthole - a small hotel completely in step with the area's new found reputation for urban innovation and creative edge
    • Its rooms are loft-like, its top-floor apartments even more so
    • Table service to avoid a queue; alfresco drinking in the summer - why not try the Atrium Bar's Ze-linni cocktail, made in homage to the hotel
    • Serving Asian and North African food, the Bruno Loubet brings his distinctive style to the Bistrot at The Zetter

    Prices from:

    £375 pp

    In the heart of "New London"

  159. Hotel Le A

    Paris, France

    Traditional stone and wrought iron on the outside; the interior of Le A is a faultlessly executed ode to contemporary art and style.

    Photos of Hotel Le A

    • Traditional stone and wrought iron on the outside; the interior of Le A is a faultlessly executed ode to contemporary art and contemporary style
    • Traditional stone and wrought iron on the outside; the interior of Le A is a faultlessly executed ode to contemporary art and contemporary style
    • White walls and natural textures create a perfect place to artfully drop all those shopping bags
    • Drinks are served in a library-style space with an open fire
    • An orangerie with big art - like eating in an artist's atelier

    Prices from:

    449 pp

    Contemporary boutique with a quaint and rustic atmosphere

  160. Hotel Sezz Paris

    Paris, France

    This is the hottest new hotel in Paris, and it is only two minutes from the Eiffel Tower.

    Photos of Hotel Sezz Paris

    • Design, design, design…..this is the hottest new hotel in Paris, at The Sezz both space and personal service are abundant
    • Design, design, design…..this is the hottest new hotel in Paris, at The Sezz both space and personal service are abundant
    • The rooms mix a sophisticated palette of sobre greys with the odd dash of lime green and red, and the industrial cutting edge of raw stone
    • The Grande Dame Bar, in partnership with, and named for Veuve Cliquot's most prized Champagne cuvee
    • A glass domed breakfast room is great for mornings and room service is twenty four seven

    Prices from:

    £489 pp

    Ideally located for a weekend break in this stunning city

  161. L'Hotel Paris

    Paris, France

    With the most magnificent neo-classical stairwell in Europe, a spa in the Catacombs, and a Michelin star restaurant, L'Hotel is a historic gem in the most sought after part of Paris's Left Bank.

    Photos of L'Hotel

    • With the most magnificent neo-classical stairwell in Europe, a spa in the Catacombs, and a Michelin star restaurant, L'Hotel is a historic gem in the most sought after part of Paris's Left Bank
    • With the most magnificent neo-classical stairwell in Europe, a spa in the Catacombs, and a Michelin star restaurant, L'Hotel is a historic gem in the most sought after part of Paris's Left Bank
    • The rooms add luxury of turn of the century Belle Epoque to one of the most interesting and unusual hotel buildings in Paris
    • The bar at L'hotel is a favourite amongst Parisian artists and film makers
    • Le Restaurant is beautiful and authentic with Moroccan tones that underpin the hotel’s sixties bohemia soul

    Prices from:

    £429 pp

    Exclusive hotel in one of the World's "Hippest" cities!

  162. Hotel Amigo

    Brussels, Belgium

    Contemporary style, historic gravitas and Belgian cosiness in the best location in town.

    Photos of Hotel Amigo

    • Contemporary style, historic gravitas and Belgian cosiness in the best location in town
    • Contemporary style, historic gravitas and Belgian cosiness in the best location in town
    • ll rooms share a common and cosy version of minimalism
    • The Amigo bar is a popular hangout for locals, which adds significantly to the hotel's ambience
    • Bocconi is rated as one of the city's best Italian restaurants

    Prices from:

    £399 pp

    Ideal location for exploring the city

  163. Odette en Ville

    Brussels, Belgium

    Located in Brussel’s Chatelain quarter, Odette en Ville is the ‘in town’ partner to the Odette hotel (a former café) in the village of Williers just over the border in France.

    Photos of Odette en Ville

    • This dark and seductive 1920s townhouse combines high style with home from home hospitality
    • This dark and seductive 1920s townhouse combines high style with home from home hospitality
    • Ultra contemporary cosy boltholes with soaking tubs and gas fires
    • Get comfortable in the huge chesterfield or at a Marcel Wanders table
    • In Brussel’s Chatelain quarter, perfect for boutique shopping and local bistros

    Prices from:

    £479 pp

    Beautiful boutique hotel

  164. The Yas Viceroy

    Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi

    Imagine all the sophisticated glamour of Formula One combined with no expense spared accommodation...

    Photos of The Yas Viceroy

    • Incredible contemporary monument to innovative architecture and luxurious style.
    • Incredible contemporary monument to innovative architecture and luxurious style.
    • Just fewer than 500 elegantly decorated hotel rooms and suites offering the very latest in indulgence, amenities and technology.
    • Italian wines, Indian beers and Japanese sake to enjoy with the appropriate meal. Rush Lounge nightclub features: premium spirits, exotic liquors and designer cocktails.
    • Twelve menu options including: Mediterranean, Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine. Regular guest appearances from Michelin starred celebrity chefs.

    Prices from:

  165. Kilindi

    Zanzibar, Tanzania

    Privacy, seclusion and authentic Zanzibar style on a half kilometre stretch of crystalline white sands.

    Photos of Kilindi

    • 50 acres of tropical paradise featuring: eastern-style accommodation, 500 metres of private beachfront, spacious gardens, fine dining, spa facilities, falling water bar and infinity pool.
    • 50 acres of tropical paradise featuring: eastern-style accommodation, 500 metres of private beachfront, spacious gardens, fine dining, spa facilities, falling water bar and infinity pool.
    • Fifteen eastern-style private pavilions containing two plunge pools, domed bed chambers with stained-glass skylights and a spacious wet room with drenching showers.
    • Drinks are served within the falling water bar that overlooks the infinity pool as well as the lounge and dining terrace.
    • Guests are invited to dine on the alfresco terrace or on the resort’s private beach. Dishes are always fresh, delicious and use a wide range of seasonal, locally grown, produce.

    Prices from:

    £2,499 pp

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