Luxury Hotels

Japan has many diverse areas to offer you – from high-tech, contemporary cities, to important historical cities, to small towns with extraordinary scenery. Each main city centre and tourist destinations in Japan have their own unique trademark, and you just have to see which one suits your taste.

For those who love being in a very contemporary city, there is Tokyo, the capital of Japan. While it is known to be the most populated high-tech urban city in the world, Tokyo still maintains some hints of traditional Japan. The city has many popular shopping and fashion districts, night spots, museums and temples, parks, and some great first-class hotels. Another huge metropolis is Osaka, known to be Japan’s best place to dine and party, with plenty of luxurious, grand hotels. Osaka has many amazing sights and attractions, including parks and temples, shopping and delicious food.

Another high-tech urban city well-known for its amazing sights and vibrant city life is Kyoto. Kyoto has a pretty amazing natural scenery, temples, as well as traditional architecture. Sapporo city also has numerous attractions, with spectacular architecture, parks, museums, and especially, its winter season. Sapporo is famous for its beer and food, and its breathtaking white winter with its comfortable hotels. There is also Hiroshima, which is a vibrant modern city with numerous cultural attractions and historical monuments around town.

Nagasaki and Nara are cities important to their historical value. Nagasaki sees strong influences of European culture during the colonial times, and has many architectural attractions, museums, gardens and shopping areas. The city was hit by a nuclear bomb in 1945, a few days after the historical bombing of Hiroshima, just before World War II officially ended. Nara, on the other hand, is an ancient city famous for its important historical sites, temples and shrines, and its beautiful gardens and spectacular scenery. Both cities have many luxury hotels around.

There is also Kanazawa, a historical city with serene neighbourhoods and great attractions. Kanazawa has a few upscale hotels, and is great for a relaxing, quiet holiday as the town is relatively remote. Here, you can find spectacular gardens, castles and architecture, temples and shrines, museums, and many other cultural attractions. Another pleasant city is Sendai, which is referred to as the “forest city.” There are also a few first-class hotels here, and many beautiful gardens, shrines, monuments, architecture to visit. Sendai does not have many historical sites to visit though, but has a relaxing pace as well.

By: Julian Khoo

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All of the luxury hotels Bangkok are located at the center of the busiest city of Thailand; most of them are all within a few blocks of each other. You can get a room in one of the hotels around for anywhere around $150 to $400. The price difference is so vast in this area because some hotels are offering 5 star accommodations, while some are 2-3 star accommodations. I have done some searching for hotels in Bangkok and I have come up with three luxurious options for people to look at. These options will fit those looking to spend a lot on a hotel.

The Oriental Bangkok

The Oriental Bangkok is located right across Siam in Bangkok. The International Marketplace is located just a couple blocks from the hotel. This hotel is tagged as the “grand old dame” and is very popular for its extravagant dinner show, if you are staying at this hotel, be sure to book your dinner reservation. For nearly 130 years of royalty, important dignitaries as well as other notable guests have all tracked the renowned Chao Phraya River to the golden gates of one of the world’s most famous and luxurious hotels.

The Peninsula Bangkok

The Peninsula Bangkok has been providing comfort and luxury for more than a decade now. Located right at the riverside, this luxury hotel Bangkok has serviced many celebrities and important figures since its opening. The hotel is now considered one of Bangkok’s greatest landmarks. The hotel is very easy to recognize with its elegant architecture. There are many cafes and restaurants located in the hotel, and there are many pools indoor and outdoor. You can enjoy valet parking with this hotel, and many other services including a salon, spa, outdoor cabanas, and hydrating pools. For around some dollars a night, you can’t go wrong if you’re looking for a hotel right at the heart of Bangkok.

Four Seasons Bangkok

This hotel offers stunning suites to all its customers, there is nothing you can’t expect with this hotel. It’s top of line, but you are paying the price for top of the line. It’s one of the best luxurious hotels in Bangkok. The tower stretches up really high with fabulous wide rooms. They have everything you could think of, from swimming pools, tennis courts, restaurants, cafes, internet, satellite TV, kitchens in every room, and so much more. This hotel is really worth your dollars, if you plan on staying in a luxurious accommodation while staying in Bangkok, then this is the place to do it.

By: Curt Panama

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When it comes to Jamaica, or any of the many popular islands in the Caribbean for that mater the one name that stands out among all others are the Sandals Resorts. These resorts are spread all across the Caribbean and all of them offer all-inclusive pricing making them the largest of the all-inclusive accommodation experts in the Caribbean. When you think of Sandals holidays you think of the word Luxury.

Out of their 12 Caribbean locations, the Sandals Resorts offer 7 locations in Jamaica alone and cater to couples only. The remaining locations can be found in St. Lucia, Antigua as well as the Bahamas and Cuba, but the two in Cuba can only be utilized by non-American nationals. But it is in Jamaica where they are most known and in this beautiful island nation you can find locations like the Sandals Montego Bay as well as the newly refurbished Sandals Grande Ocho Rios Beach & Villa Resort.

There is also the fairly new Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa that you can choose unless you would prefer the older and original Sandals Resorts like Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island, Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa, Sandals Dunn’s River Villagio Golf Resort & Spa and the Sandals Inn.

No matter which Sandals Resort you choose, you are guaranteed to have a great time because the Sandals Resorts know how to have a great time in the Caribbean island paradise called Jamaica. Just don’t forget to bring some extra sun tan lotion for the long days at the beach.

By: Kevin P McNally

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In the main cities like Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch the types of luxury accommodation on offer include 5-star luxury hotels, lodges, apartments and bed and breakfasts. Get out into the rest of New Zealand however, and the options may be more limited. Take Lake Taupo for instance. Taupo is a popular tourist destination in the centre of the North Island. There are a number of upmarket boutique accommodation options, but nothing that would really qualify as a 5-star hotel. So does this mean (a) you should avoid Taupo? (b) downgrade to a 4-star property or (c) consider an alternative?

In my view, visitors to New Zealand who do not experience a lodge or a 5-star b&b are missing out on something uniquely NZ: the ambience, wine & cuisine, vistas, personalized service and interesting conversations that can only be found in such accommodations, and which epitomize the NZ experience, attitude and lifestyle. So, in the example above, consider an alternative. A great website which lists around 100 such properties can be found at Heritage & Character Inns of NZ.

These are all individually owned properties each with their own distinctive style, but sharing some values in common such as exceptional hosting and fine cuisine.

If you’re a reasonably affluent traveler, no doubt you have experienced fine hotels in many corners of the world, but how often have you enjoyed a more unique accommodation experience? Concerned that the environment may be too intimate? Don’t be. Most of these properties offer plenty of space, both inside and out, in which to enjoy some privacy. (Space, of course, is one thing which is abundant in NZ.) Concerned that the services you’re used to won’t be available? Don’t be. Most of these properties offer services such as complimentary airport transfers, complimentary advice on activities as well as booking services, complimentary shuttles to local restaurants (if you’re not dining at the property), complimentary high speed internet (when was the last time you got free internet), even in many cases, complimentary laundry services.

New Zealanders are renowned for their hospitality. And there is no better way to experience this hospitality first hand than to stay in a New Zealand luxury or boutique lodge, or upmarket bed & breakfast.

By: Rob McEwen

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Up until just a decade ago, Macau was hardly anything but a day long escape for those travelers who wanted to spice up their Hong Kong holiday by visiting the famous floating casino, where a scene of James bond’s “The Man with the Golden Gun” was shot, or to watch promiscuous cabaret shows at Hotel Lisboa…

But things are very different nowadays: Improved public security, alongside economic reforms and liberalization of the casino industry have attracted international investors to the former Portuguese colony, and today Macau luxury hotels are in one line with the world’s best accommodations.

This article will introduce you to the finest of Macau luxury hotels:

• Hotel Lisboa Macau

Even if the legendary Lisboa may no longer be at the top of Macau’s luxury hotels list, it has certainly become one of the city’s most famous establishments…

Alongside its very central location, this classy hotel vaunts elegant decor that brings back the romance and magic of bygone colonial days, with heavy chandeliers, filigree handrails and opulent oriental art.

As you may well expect from a Macau luxury hotel, guestrooms are quite large and fairly detailed in terms of design, with nostalgic Chinese furniture and mosaic floor in the bathroom.

As far as facilities go, there is a nice swimming pool, gym, sauna, international class restaurants and, of course, the brilliant cabaret shows and the famous Casino Lisboa for which the hotel is known worldwide…

• Pousada de Sao Tiago

Built within the ramparts of Barra Fort: A 17th century Portuguese stronghold at the southern tip of the Macau Pninsula, Pousada de Sao Tiago is definitely the most characterful of Macau luxury hotels.

All the 24 rooms at this charming boutique hotel are full of ambience and come with antique furniture and balconies overlooking the bay…

The “Pousada” also has a small swimming pool, as well as a pleasant terrace-cafe where you can have your coffee alfresco, and an exceptionally fine restaurant… But most importantly, it has a dedicated team of friendly staff who really make sure their guests feel at home…

If historic boutique hotels are your thing, than staying here is something you should consider… The “Pousada” is not within a convenient walking distance to town, but it’s only a short taxi ride, sp no worries about that…

• MGM Grand Macau

The first thing you’ll probably notice about this Macau luxury hotel is its extravagant architecture, featuring an uber-modern design that gives a very Sci-fi look to the hotel’s building.

Fantastic location on the edge of the city centre, just a short walk from most of Macau’s sightseeing sites, casinos and restaurants, is only one of the reasons why this relatively new hotel has become so popular. The second reason, which is even more important, is what the MGM Grand has to offer in terms of comfort and luxury: From large rooms with beautiful views and modern-elegant decor, to a whole range of fabulous amenities, including the very “chic” swimming pool from which you can enjoy great views over Taipa Island.

When it comes to dining, entertainment and nightlife, the Grande Praca is the place where everything happens … Designed like a Colonial-Portuguese piazza, this sunlit atrium boasts quite a few fantastic restaurants and shops, which means it is possible for you to have a very nice evening out, without actually leaving the hotel…

As you might expect from a luxury hotel in Macau, the MGM Grand also runs its own ritzy casino…

• Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16

The prestigious Sofitel at Ponte 16 is one of the latest newcomers to Macau luxury hotel scene.

Located in a surprising (but very nice) part of town, facing the Inner Harbour waterfront (Porto Interior), the hotel is slightly away from the cluster of luxury hotels around the “casino belt” but within a short walking distance to Almeida Ribeiro, Ruins of St. Paul’s, Senado Square and other places of interest within the old part of town…

One of the best things about this luxury hotel is the spacious rooms, that provide gorgeous views of either the Inner Harbour and the town of Zhuhai (in China) or the narrow alleyways of Macau’s old town, and are equipped with a whole range of facilities (including a nice set of L’occitane bathing products in every bathroom).

Secondly, the Sofitel is a part of a stylish modern Casino and Entertainment Complex, which means there is a decent range of dining and entertainment options within an elevator ride… Hotel amenities are also fantastic and include a very nice swimming pool with a sundeck facing the Inner Harbour and Zhuhai, as well as a spa, wellness center, well equipped gym and the likes…

Thirdly, and most important of all: The rates at the Sofitel are still quite reasonable when compared to some other Macau luxury hotels of the same caliber…

• Venetian Macau

Some people dislike the Venetian, others adore it – But nobody can ignore it!

Writing an article about Macau luxury hotels without mentioning the Venetian is simply impossible… Occupying one of the biggest hotel buildings on earth, this colossal casino-resort offers more luxury and amenities than many of Macau’s leading hotels, alongside a wide choice of dining and entertainment options.

To begin with, the rooms at the Venetian are just incredible, both in terms of size and facilities, and otherwise there are some outstandingly good hotel amenities, as well as an unbelievable selection of restaurants, bars, nightspots and shops at the Venice-style “Grand Canal shoppes”… Not to mention the world’s largest casino, which is just an elevator ride away…

Critics, on the other side, argue that what this hotel makes up in amenities, it lacks in character and personal touch… Moreover, quite a few travelers claim that staying in the newly developed area of Cotai (where the Venetian is) is not what they came to Macau for, and that they prefer to book a hotel in town, where they can be within walking distance of Macau’s places of interest…

It’s impossible to determine who is right or wrong… It depends, first and foremost on who you are and what is your idea of a holiday in Macau… But one thing for sure: If you plan to spend more than just a couple of nights in Macau, staying one night at the Venetian is certainly something you should consider… If not for anything else, than for the ultimate splurge.

By: Roni Shwartz

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Hong Kong is filled with many sights, attractions, restaurants, entertainment and luxurious hotels. To find the right hotel here, you can choose which area you want to stay in, whether it be a large, glamorous city, or more relaxing scenic areas.

The northern part of island is where the city’s financial, shopping, and commercial districts are located. There are many luxurious first-class hotels here, like the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, Langham Place Hotel Mongkok, and many others. This is where all the popular shopping areas are located, with high-class areas like Causeway Bay, Central, and Hollywood Road. Some of most vibrant night life areas are also located here. Perhaps one of the most famous attractions is Victoria Peak, a hill which gives you a spectacular view of the city. Other attractions include museums, food, and the Star Ferry.

Kowloon is also a city area, just separated from the main island by the South China Sea. Kowloon, also has a mix of modern malls and skyscrapers, with a hint of cultural life with street vendors and markets. The very well-known Nathan Road is packed with the city’s skyscrapers, shopping centres, hotels and lights. Kowloon has some great first-class hotels as well, like the InterContinental Hong Kong, Langham Hotel Hong Kong, and many more. The city gives you some spectacular views of Hong Kong Island’s skyline, and is perhaps the best area to watch the dazzling Symphony of Lights, which is a daily light and laser show.

The New Territories is not as upscale as Hong Kong Island or Kowloon, but has a very scenic countryside, villages and farms, towns and industrial developments. Staying around this area would be for travellers who love beautiful scenery, and want a quieter holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are a few luxury hotels spread around The New Territories, such as Hyatt Regency Sha Tin Hong Kong, L’hotel Nina et Convention Centre, and others. Travellers can go hiking in the Sai Kung area, or simply take in some relaxing sights.

For quiet areas with more options of activities and sights, there are The Outlying Islands, which are the islands all around the territory. The most popular one is Lantau Island, which is a great getaway from the hectic city life. Lantau Island has some very luxurious hotels like the SkyCity Marriott Hotel. The islands offer you some beautiful beaches, monasteries, traditional fishing villages, and a scenic open countryside. From Lantau you can take a cable car ride to the Ngong Ping village and large Buddha statue, or take a ferry to the other islands.

By: Julian Khoo

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In China there are numerous choices of places to visit, so the first thing you have to do to find the hotel for a perfect, luxurious holiday is to decide whether you want to stay within an urban city area, small town, or on the outskirts of China. One thing’s for sure though, where ever you choose to stay, there are fantastic attractions spread all over the country, and paired with a great hotel, will make a great holiday.

The major cities in China include China’s capital, Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, all of which have some great first-class hotels. Beijing is famous for housing The Great Wall of China, and maintains its natural cultural feel. While Beijing is the political, educational and cultural centre of China, there are many important historical landmarks here.

Shanghai is the biggest, most developed city in China, and is the economic, commercial and fashion hub of the country. Guangzhou is a large industrial city, and boasts some very scenic views on the outskirts of town, as well as some traditional hints in the midst of all the high-rise buildings. Luxury hotels include Grand Hyatt Beijing, The Garden Hotel (Guangzhou), Four Seasons Shanghai, and many more.

Other urban cities around China include Kunming, Nanjing and Xian, which have metropolitan areas surrounded by fascinating scenery. These cities have some very luxurious hotels, and are well-known for their many attractions. Kunming is famous for its natural surroundings, parks and gardens, historical temples, museums, markets and such.

Nanjing is labelled a historical and cultural city, with breathtaking scenery, and a modern city centre. Xian also has great sights and historical architecture, as well as great tourist attractions here. Luxury hotels around these areas include Grand Park Hotel Kunming, Sofitel Galaxy Nanjing, Shangri-La Hotel Xian, and many others.

Areas in China better known for its very breathtaking scenic views include Guilin, Hangzhou and Suzhou, all of which welcome you with their many historical attractions, culture, and natural beauty. There are some luxurious hotels around these areas, though not as many choices as the main urban city centres.

Guilin is a very well-known tourist destination for its spectacular surroundings, including its parks, hills and caves, rivers, and others. Hangzhou is also popular as a tourist city, with its beautiful scenery and historical and cultural heritage. Suzhou is also famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional riverside architecture. Luxury hotels here include Sheraton Guilin Hotel, Sofitel Hangzhou, Sofitel Suzhou, and many others.

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By: Julian Khoo

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Luxury Hotels

Italy is filled with magnificent sights of all kinds, from beautiful towns and glorious buildings and structures, to sophisticated culture, to spectacular natural beauty all-round. There are numerous places all over Italy that would be worth a visit, though there is certainly a little of everything – the fascinating towns, culture and scenery – in almost every major city and touristy areas.

One of the most famous areas in Italy – to both vacationers and religious pilgrims – is Rome, where the Vatican City is centred. Rome, as the capital of Italy, has numerous first-class luxurious hotels, like Hotel Majestic Roma, The Westin Excelsior Rome, and many more. There are plenty of things to do in Rome, which is set against the beautiful Seven Hills and its towns. In Rome and Vatican City there are numerous world-famous attractions like The Sistine Chapel and the Colosseum, and many other museums, churches, galleries and such.

The other main cities, like Milan, Florence and Venice, are greatly known for their own unique cultures. Milan is a very chic, modern town, a great centre for luxurious hotels, high-end shopping, fashion, opera, and nightlife. Florence, which is known for its cultural, artistic and architectural atmosphere, also houses many premier hotels. Venice, on the other hand, is a very beautiful, peaceful town, with numerous first-class hotels and attractions. These three towns all boast a huge array of museums, galleries and other wonderful sights and attractions.

One of the more popular resort towns in Italy is Rimini, in Emilia-Romagna, Italy’s East coast. There are numerous hotels here, such as the first-class Grand Hotel Rimini eResidenza Grand Hotel. Rimini has a long history, where early settlements have appeared since prehistoric times, making it a very worthwhile visit. The surrounding scenery here is also an impressive one.

Another wonderfully relaxing holiday destination is Capri and Ischia, in the Bay of Naples. Both islands boast spectacular scenery and magnificent beaches, as well as a number of first-class luxury hotels. Capri makes a wonderful relaxing getaway, while Ischia is famous for its volcanic thermal springs.

Calabria in southern Italy is also a noted holiday destination, with untouched natural landscapes, beaches and hillside towns. A must-visit are the ancient Greek temples and Byzantine churches in the countryside, and the Praja a Mare beach. There are numerous luxurious hotels around Calabria.

For a snow-filled, fun holiday in the mountains of Italy, there is Courmayeur in Northwest Italy. A very popular destination to skiers and mountaineers, there are several alpine resorts, set against the spectacular background of wonderful sceneries and culture.

By: Julian Khoo

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South Beach, known colloquially as SOBE, is like nowhere else. Trend-setting, affluent and vibrant, it has a distinct up-market Latino flavor. White sand and azure ocean beneath a cloudless sunny sky, the eclectic mix of pastel Art Deco hotels along Ocean Drive, beautiful people strolling arm in arm in the latest fashions, this is what South Beach is all about. It is an escape from reality, at least for the time you are there! Once the home of drug barons and Mafioso, it is now an idyllic retreat for the rich and famous, as well as the migratory flock of snowbirds who return year in, year out.

Along with the palm-fringed beachfront, South Beach offers fabulous designer shopping from Lincoln Road to name-dropping Collins Avenue. Armani, Kenneth Cole, Benetton, Sephora, Ralph Lauren, Diesel….they can all be found here on these narrow streets. After dark, restaurants, bars and nightclubs buzz with music and you pay more for valet parking than most people would pay for cocktails, but hey, there is only one South Beach! See and be seen is the name of the game. After dining out in style at one of the many Michelin starred restaurants such as the lovely Casa Tua, or Palme d’Or, walk though romantic Lummus Park beneath the stars and then retire to your chosen luxury hotel for a nightcap in the bar.

Once again there are too many wonderful hotels to list, even on the short stretch of Ocean Drive. If you are looking for Art Deco inspiration consider the newly renovated Hotel Victor, right next door to Casa Casuarina, better known as the Versace Mansion. This delightful boutique hotel in Miami has retained some of its finest Art Deco features in the extensive lobby and bar. Right on the beach is the Raleigh, which has retained all its 1920s charm including the uniquely shaped swimming pool. With designer shops at the front, and the boardwalk and beach to the rear, everything is conveniently close by. Rather more hip and trendy but one block back from the beach is the Shore Club Miami, a true celebrity hang-out. Designer-cool rooms by British designer David Copperfield, and managed by Ian Schrager, creator of the boutique hotel genre, this contemporary style hotel is a far cry from the 1930s in which it was built. The Casa Grande is quite the opposite.This refined luxury hotel invites guests to truly relax and feel at home. Last but certainly not least, checkout the Pelican; owned by Diesel it is a temple to OTT decor and zany fashion. Wherever you choose to stay you are unlikely to be spending long within its four walls.

By: Alexander Brey

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A Trip to Venice to get enthralled by its vivacity…

Located in the northern part of the county, an Italian city is famed around the world for its magnificence. Nevertheless, official name of the city is ‘Venice’ but it is more famous by its secondary names such as ‘queen of Adriatic’, ‘City of Water’, City of Bridges’ and ‘City of Light’. One among the most gorgeous cities in the world, Venice is supposed to be the adored destination of lovebirds from all across the globe.

Giving a depiction of fairyland, the city is a treasure trove of cultures and traditions, which are centuries old. Set on almost 117 tiny isles and comprising hundreds of canal, the city covers an area of 458 kilometers. Miles away from the impression of a metropolitan city struck with traffic jam and chaotic setting, Venice trails are as clear as a remote village in oriental Asia. This elegant getaway is all time favorite for beauty-loving expeditors or camera-clad beings of the world.

Accommodation in Venice

Known for its inexhaustible festivity, Venice calls tourists through out the year. Nevertheless, the city is very small and population is less, yet, it is abundant with restaurants and hotels. Venice hotels are full of every facility and available on a good range. Some of the most famous hotels in Venice are respectively Hotel Giorgione, Ca’ Gottardi, Historic palazzo, Hotel Al Vagon, Hotel Ambra, Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo, Hotel Mignon, Hotel Gabrielli, Hotel Torino, Venice Hotels, Hotel San Giorgio etc.

You will be able to find almost every sort of hotel in Venice. Some Venice hotels are budget hotels, while some are specially designed with a corporate look. If are looking forward for something lavish at the dazzling destination, opt for multi-star hotels in Venice, which are ready to offer you the most impeccable services. Comfortable beds, aromatic ambiance, flawless service, good food, plush spas and top quality gym are the normal features of these hotels.

Start your morning with the tawny shade spread outside your window and spend the entire day playing with canal mazes in the city. You can wander around also, as car is a strict ‘no-no’ here. Yes, car is banned in Venice. But if, you do not want to get lost in the watery web of the city, you can opt for busses, which run all across the city.

Best season to go-

Nonetheless, Venice is an year round destination but if you want to take the maximum fun of the party mood of the city, land here in spring. It will be best if you will come here during Easter. This is supposed to be the perfect season to enjoy the vivacity of the city but this time you can face a problem of accommodation in Venice hotels.

By: Nancy E Eben

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