Top Travel Tips

Archive for the ‘Accommodation’ Category

There are numerous first-class luxury hotels in Indonesia, especially in the touristy destinations like Bali, Jakarta, and many other islands, coastlines, and cities. Many of the extravagant hotels are equipped with a spectacular backdrop of lush greenery and mountains, the sparkling ocean, or an amazing city skyline.

Amanjiwo

Nestled amongst the hills of central Java is the Amanjiwo resort, a truly serene getaway from the city, displaying an amazing blend of dramatic, traditional architecture and pure class. Close by the hotel is the world’s biggest Buddhist sanctuary, Borobudor, and the Tidar Hill.

All of the hotel’s 36 suites are roomy, pleasing and exquisitely styled. Amongst the hotel’s many facilities is a range of Javanese and traditional relaxation and beauty treatments, a swimming pool, galleries, dining, and more.

The Oberoi, Lombok

The Oberoi, Lombok offers the relaxing, quiet escape away from the busy city life on the untouched, lush Lombok island. Set against the amazing backdrop of palm trees and ocean views, this hotel is a theme of traditional Indonesian luxury and modern class.

With 50 tastefully decorated rooms, this serene luxury hotel offers first-class facilities, like a relaxing spa, a well-equipped fitness centre, a mirror pool, meeting facilities, as well as several enchanting restaurants.

The Dharmawangsa

Offering a first-class experience all the way for the business or leisure traveller is The Dharmawangsa, located in the most prestigious residential area in Jakarta. The swanky hotel is just minutes from the capital city’s Central Business District, but gives a tranquil, outstanding experience.

The hotel gives off a fantastic, luxurious interior, with a touch of rich Indonesian heritage, possessing 100 spacious rooms. The hotel’s facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fitness studio, meeting and banquet facilities and such.

Desa Seni

Set by the seaside of the popularly visited island of Bali is Desa Seni, a unique resort that resembles a traditional Balinese village. This high-class hotel is ancient with a collection of trendy luxuries, featuring a authentic Indonesian countryside village ambience.

There are just 12 guest houses here, all of which are beautifully decorated with wooden furnishings and comfortable materials. The hotel also boasts dining, a unique saltwater lap pool, a spa, and an array of activities available.

Kemang Icon by Alila

The Kemang Icon by Alila is incredibly modern and sleek, situated in the vibrant district of Kemang, close to plenty of shops, galleries, restaurants and nightlife. Although there are just 12 guest rooms, this boutique hotel allows opulence at its finest.

The luxury hotel features a yoga studio, five spa treatment rooms, a sleek  rooftop pool, and a sophisticated restaurant serving Indonesian cuisine.

Summary

With the luxury hotels in Indonesia, you are presented with either a luxurious traditional Indonesian atmosphere, the utmost modern feel, or a wonderful mix of both. There is a wide selection of luxury hotels, from the rural, lush areas, to the sunny seaside, to the bustling city areas.

There are many luxury hotels in India, ranging from the ultra-modern to the classy and traditional. The main metropolitan areas such as New Delhi and Mumbai have a wealth of luxury accommodations, while visitors seeking a more cultural-filled, quieter holiday away from the city also have a number of serene hotels all over India.

Rambagh Palace a TAJ Hotel

The Rambagh Palace stays true to its name with its magnificently traditional, classy build. This resplendant, grand, impressive and majestic hotel is found, located and sistuated in the cultural centre and cultural hub of Jaipur, and has been the chosen dwelling of, playing host to and home to royalty and aristocrats and the noble classes and elite since it was erected, built and founded in 1835.

The extravagant hotel has 90 guest rooms and suites, all of which treat its patrons like royalty, with exquisite interiors and luxurious amenities. The hotel’s ample, various, abundant and many first-rate, remarkable, noteworthy, excellent, first-class and top-notch facilities and amenities include an outdoor and indoor pool, a business hub and centre, and a handful of, a selection of and some fine, excellent, delightful and noteworthy restaurants and bars.

The Oberoi Rajvilas

Recreating a luxurious royal getaway in the wonderfully cultural city of Jaipur is The Oberoi Rajvilas. This grand luxury hotel offers 83 guest rooms and villas, all of which are immensely comfortable and extravagant.

The hotel is sprawled out over, spread across and straddles beautifully landscaped lawns, terraces and gardens with gazebos and pavilions and reflecting pools and reflection pools. Amongst and Among the abundant, many and ample unrivaled, luxurious and excellent facilities and amenities is the noteworthy, first-class and first-rate spa and fitness centre, meeting facilities and gourmet and fine dining restaurants.

The Imperial

Strategically located just step’s away from New Delhi’s famous shopping district and major attractions is The Imperial hotel. Ranked amongst the finest hotels in Asia, this luxury hotel has stood since 1931, housing a priceless collection of artwork.

Each of the hotel’s 229 rooms and suites are elegantly decorated and spacious with great views. The hotel also is home to, houses, features and boasts award-winning, prize-winning and award-worthy restaurants, a swimming pool, a fitness centre, and banquet and meeting facilities and amenities.

The Oberoi Amarvilas

At The Oberoi Amarvilas, guests are greeted with a magnificent view of the famous Taj Mahal of Agra. The first-class hotel is wonderfully grand and luxurious with hints of traditional decor, housing 105 comfortable guest rooms and suites.

The luxury, first-class and opulent hotel also offers and features a renowned, world-class and first-rate spa, fitness facilities, in-house, on location and on-site fine dining, gourmet dining and epicurean food, meeting facilities, and other exceptional, great and excellent services and facilities.

Taj Lake Palace

Sitting magnificently in the middle of Lake Pichola in Udaipur is the Taj Lake Palace, surrounded by a wonderful backdrop of mountains and palaces. The luxury hotel makes a great getaway from the bustling city, with many first-class facilities and services available.

The hotel houses just 81 guest rooms and suites, all of which are decorated in an extravagantly classy, old-world style. The hotel also features a business centre, a boutique, a pool, and dining, amongst many other things.

Summary

While there are numerous great luxury hotels located in the major cities of India, there are many grand hotels located in the more quiet regions of India. Most of the luxury hotels, naturally, serve up an extravagant experience with that magic touch of Indian tradition and hospitability.

Many of the luxury hotels in Australia are centred in the tourist-frequented areas, like Sydney and Melbourne. There are countless luxury accommodations all around the country, offering top-notch facilities and services with a touch of luxury.

BLUE Sydney

The BLUE Sydney is situated in the central business and shopping district of Woolloomooloo. Sitting on the magnificent pier in Sydney, the high-class boutique hotel boasts easy passage to the close-by Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House and an array of historic museums, art galleries and other destinations.

Each of the BLUE Sydney’s 100 guest rooms and lofts are tastefully furnished and warm with top-notch amenities. The hotel also has an indoor pool, spa, fitness centre, business centre, and many other first-class facilities, including a cafe and bar.

Conrad Treasury Brisbane

The Conrad Treasury Brisbane boasts a grand, beautiful Colonial exterior in the heart of Brisbane. The prize-winning opulent hotel is just a stone’s throw to some superb shopping, entertainment and destinations. The hotel is a dynamic place, boasting six note-worthy restaurants and five dynamic bars.

The hotel offers endless entertainment, as well as fascinating facilities, including a huge casino, fitness facilities, business centre and others. Every of the hotel’s 130 guest rooms are divinely decorated with unsurpassed amenities and services.

Bayview Eden Melbourne (Previously named Eden on the Park)

The Bayview Eden Melbourne is located in the heart of the St Kilda Road business district. Enjoying views over Port Phillip Bay and the Albert Park Lake, the award-winning luxury boutique hotel has easy access to the city and its attractions with the Melbourne City Circle tram.

The hotel has 192 rooms and suites, all of which boast a tasteful, spacious interior, equipped with first-class amenities. Guests can also revel in the hotel’s note-worthy amenities including the rooftop fitness centre, indoor heated swimming pool, business centre, and others.

Medusa Hotel

The Medusa Hotel is a unique, funky boutique hotel located in the beautiful, quiet area of Darlinghurst, Sydney. The luxury hotel is close to countless fascinating cultural attractions, restaurants, shops and bars and is within walking distance to the famous Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour.

Each of the hotel’s 18 rooms boasts a one-of-a-kind decor and is beautifully furnished in bold colours and stylish furnishings. The Hotel’s first-class facilities include a courtyard with a reflection pool, a gym a private business room, a multi-lingual team, pet-friendly services, and more.

Shangri-La Hotel Sydney

The Shangri-La Hotel Sydney is located in the historic Rocks district of Sydney, boasting scenic surroundings and fantastic views. The swanky hotel is right down the road from the prominent landmarks, shopping, restaurants and bars.

The hotel has 563 tastefully furnished guest rooms and suites, all of which are elegant and spacious. The hotel is also equipped with business and meeting facilities, banquet facilities, as well as the Alysium Spa and Health Club, two restaurants and two bars.

Summary

Many luxury hotels in Australia are usually close to the major attractions, business districts, shopping, entertainment, and dining. The hotels here offer a diverse blend of class and culture in their style and aura.

Hong Kong has many wonderful places to visit, from the scenic countryside to the islands, to the bustling city. Most of the luxury hotels in Hong Kong are located in the main Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.

The Peninsula

The Peninsula is one of the grandest hotels in Hong Kong, boasting a wonderfully classy colonial design. Located in the business and entertainment hot-spot of Kowloon, the hotel offers good access to the rest of the metropolis and Hong Kong Island.

Each of the magnificent hotel’s 300 rooms is splendid and magnificently furnished, offering incredible views over Hong Kong Island. The hotel houses several stylish restaurants and lounges, a lavish spa and health club, and other first-class services and facilities, including a helicopter service.

The Landmark Mandarin Oriental

Located in the heart of Hong Kong Island’s city is The Landmark Mandarin Oriental hotel, a sanctuary of luxury and comfort. The hotel is just steps away from important business centres, shopping, dining and entertainment.

This extraodinary hotel has just 113 rooms, but every room is remarkably spacious, of posh modern design, equipped with unbeatable facilities. Also housed in the hotel is the popular MO Bar, a quiet spa, and other first-class facilities.

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong

The Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong is just steps away from one of Hong Kong Island’s major shopping destinations. This newly refurbished luxury hotel features a sleek, contemporary interior.

The hotel’s 503 guest rooms and suites are spacious and regal, equipped with top-of-the-range facilities and amazing vistas. Amongst the hotel’s first-rate facilities include several renowned restaurants, a spa, a fitness centre, business facilities, and a little something for everyone.

Langham Place

Enjoying a convenient location in the heart of Kowloon, the Langham Place is situated nearby plenty of shopping, dining and attractions. The hotel is of a classic, contemporary design and features 665 magnificently furnished rooms and suites with state-of-the-art facilities.

The famous hotel is home to a range of restaurants and lounges, a paradise-like spa, a fitness studio, swimming pool, a business centre and more.

Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong

Set by the waterfront, overlooking the famous Victoria Harbour and the financial district is the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong.  The luxury hotel enjoys an easy access to plenty of tourist destinations being conveniently located near the Hong Kong Station and Star Ferry.

The hotel’s 399 guess rooms and suites are spaciously and stylishly decorated with contemporary style. The hotel also features a pampering spa, some fine restaurants, and other first-class facilities and services.

Summary

Most of Hong Kong’s luxury hotels create an atmosphere of serenity, class and comfort. Many of the top-rated hotels have convenient locations near many of Hong Kong’s attractions, shopping, dining and business districts.

Germany has a unique blend of historical landmarks, magnificent old towns, amazing landscapes and trendy modern city life. There are numerous luxury hotels in Germany, most of which are centred in popular tourist cities like Berlin, Hamburg and others.

Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg

True to its name, the Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg is certainly a magnificent, grand building, located on a beautiful, quiet hilltop in Bensberg, Cologne. This luxury hotel makes a great getaway from the bustling city life, with pampering services like its first-class Beauty & Spa, its 3 Michelin-star restaurant Vendome, and many more.

The hotel’s 120 large guest rooms and suites are very posh and stylishly decorated, with the latest facilities for the best convenience. With other facilities like well-equipped business centre, the hotel can also cater to the business traveller.

Excelsior Hotel Ernst

Being a grand landmark in Cologne, the Excelsior Hotel Ernst has stood in the heart of the city centre since 1863, hosting many VIP guests. The world-class luxury hotel boasts its magnificent traditional interior and antique furnishings and artworks.

Each of the hotel’s 142 rooms and suites are tastefully decorated, equipped with first-class luxury amenities. The hotel has some praiseworthy restaurants, a classic Piano Bar, a fitness hub, and rejuvenating spa treatments, amongst myriad more amenities.

Gastwerk Hotel

The Gastwerk Hotel in Hamburg is an establishment of impressive architecture and interior. The palatial hotel is placed only minutes away from Hamburg City and Ottensen, with many dining spots, pubs, shopping, entertainment and attractions.

The hotel’s 141 rooms and suites are incredibly spacious, comfortable and beautifully furnished and decorated, equipped with modern amenities. The resort also has world-class meeting and conference rooms, a celebrated restaurant, a luscious spa and other amenities and services.

Villa Kennedy

The Villa Kennedy is a remarkably classy, luxurious hotel, conveniently located in the financial centre of Frankfurt. This high-end business hotel occupies a refurbished historic building and is easily accessible to many museums, restaurants and bars.

The hotel’s 163 guest rooms and suits are exceptionally luxuriously decorated of modern style. Each room is also equipped with first-class amenities. Housed in the hotel is the elegant Restaurant Gusto, the comfortable JFK’s Bar & Lounge, a spa and fitness centre, business and meeting facilities, and more.

Sofitel Hamburg Alter Wall

Set in the heart of Hamburg city is the first-class Sofitel Hamburg Alter Wall hotel, easily accessible by public transport. The luxury hotel boasts a very modern, geometric design, and has wonderful views over the Alster river.

Each of the hotel’s 241 rooms and suites are tastefully furnished and impeccably luxurious with top-notch amenities. The hotel has a well-equipped business centre, a spa with a sauna, steam room, and indoor pool, a French bistro and an elegant fine dining restaurant, amongst many other facilities.

Summary

Germany has numerous luxury hotels of extreme comfort and hospitable service, scattered around the country. Almost all top-class hotels here are equipped with important up-to-date amenities and facilities, suitable for both work and leisure guests.

The Mediterranean has been a top choice for many holidaymakers over the years and its not hard to see why. Whether indulging the senses in the exhilarating sights, sounds and tastes of mainland Europe and Africa or relaxing on a sun drenched island, it’s hard to envisage where else you could find so much diversity. Now, with the many deals on accommodation around, from cheap hotels in Crete to affordable resorts in Malta, you can have a go at exploring it all. Here are a few tasters to whet your appetite:

Crete

The beautiful Greek island of Crete is a good choice for families or those seeking a cultural break. Thrills and excitement for all the family can be found at Star Beach water park in Hersonissos, for example. Meanwhile, the impressive Knossos ruins in Heraklion in the north of the island will inspire culture lovers. Some great deals on Crete hotels can be found currently. A self catering apartment in the Hersonissos area suitable for a family of four can be booked for under £10 per person per night.

Malta

For the ultimate romantic getaway Malta is a fantastic choice, promising lazy days by the pool or on the beach in tranquil surroundings. Culturally there’s plenty on offer too, for example in Valetta – the island’s capital and a world heritage site. The many deals on cheap hotels in Malta at the moment means that you and your partner can enjoy your stay safe in the knowledge that it’s not breaking the bank. Seven nights for 2 people in a self catering apartment can be found for just £5 per person per night.

Ibiza

If you’re looking for a holiday which sets its pace at the other end of the spectrum, then look no further than Ibiza. The island has its quiet moments and you could spend your whole break in a lazy little town or village, but many visit Ibiza to sample its more wild side. A renowned party island, some of the biggest clubs in the world have made their home here and regularly lure party animals to hot spots such as Ibiza Town and San Antonio Town – and with cheap Ibiza hotels available for under £10 per person per night, it’s no surprise people are flocking to the island’s vibrant shores.

Hitting the slopes is a sure fire way to make the most of your time this winter. Whether you’re an expert or a novice, the fresh air and activity is guarenteed to be a cure for your winter ailments. You can choose to share this sociable activity with family, friends or partners, but whatever your decision there are plenty of cheap hotels available at the moment in top resorts around the world to help make sure it’s an affordable trip.

People of all ages love to ski and snowboard. Now is the perfect time of year to learn how to ski if you haven’t already. Those wanting to learn to ski only need to be in reasonable physical shape in order to begin. You can finance a winter break with cheap hotels across Europe. In order to get a good price, look at some of the last minute deals on offer at the moment. Rates on accommodation can be found for as little at £15 per night with a little research.

Gather up a group of friends and check out hotels that offer discounts for multiple bookings. Skiing with friends can be a truly bonding experience – as can the après ski! Often you’ll find the ski resort is packed with evening entertainment, so you and your friends will have loads to do once you’ve finished on the slopes for the day.

A few days of skiing in the mountains can be the ideal romantic getaway as well. The gorgeous snow-covered mountains provide an excellent backdrop. Unwind after a long day of skiing with a romantic dinner and a relaxing soak in the hot tub.

If you’re looking for something the entire family can enjoy, skiing could be just the thing. Enjoy a family breakfast before heading off in your own direction according to your experience. Then you can arrange to meet-up for a midday day meal, get some more time on the slopes in and then regroup for an evening of family fun. By mixing family time with skiing time, you’ll enjoy the memories you do make without wanting an individual holiday at the end of it. With endless resort options and cheap hotels across Europe, you may even consider making it a family tradition.

In much of life, we are encouraged to do things in advance and be prepared. When seeking out a real hotel bargain, though, it can pay to be a lot more flexible. Booking in advance is the smartest option if you want or need to go somewhere specific at a specific time, but if you’re open to any date or destination, you’ll be able to find some amazing last minute deals.It is not unheard of to find late rooms that are up to 50% off or more. You never know what kind of deals you’ll find at the last minute, so traveller’s with an adventurous spirit will really enjoy this approach. Here are some tips to ensure you get the most out of your last minute holiday:

Be flexible

The key to getting an amazing deal is flexibility, whether it is related to the dates you travel, or the location you stay in. Decide on the element of your holiday is most important to you as a starting point and then be willing to compromise on other areas. Of course, if you are totally free as a bird then that’s when you’ll get the best deals.

Go out of season

If you go in the shoulder season, you’ll have a much better chance at finding a bargain, plus there will be far less tourists present. That’s not to say you need to go to the Mediterranean in the depths of winter or a ski resort in summer, but even just avoiding school holidays can make a difference. Many destinations will have a period during the year when you can get the best of both worlds, with less crowds and some great late rooms deals when the weather is still good as well.

Research thoroughly and reap the rewards

The best way to find a good deal is to take advantage of all your resources. The internet is a great place to start and you can sign up for weekly email newsletters from a number of sites that offer deals on late rooms, flights and package holidays. There are plenty of small online travel agencies that have cut-throat prices to deal with the big competitors. You can also you comparative sites that will search all the top travel search engines for you simultaneously.

The lovely isle of Menorca in the Balearic Islands has plenty to offer holidaymakers of all types. With all the right ingredients for a laid back holiday experience, Menorca boasts stunning beaches, breathtaking countryside and welcoming hospitality in abundance. Guests staying at the many comfortable Menorca hotels can look forward to a change to kick back and relax as they enjoy their Mediterranean island getaway.

With its wide variety of beautiful beaches, Menorca has something to offer all types of visitor, whatever their mood. A great family choice is the popular Son Parc beach, while Son Bou is a good all-rounder. Those seeking some time away from the crowds will find that Cala Turqueta is a welcoming choice, as is Cala Trebaluger where visitors can enjoy bird watching and sitting under the shade of the surrounding pine trees.

When it comes to getting a bit more active, Menorca can provide a good selection of sporting and adventure opportunities. Cala Galdana is a good choice for a wide range of options, from watersports and boat trips, to mini golf and cycling. Meanwhile, the island also offers opportunities to get involved in horse riding, scuba diving and go karting.

Holidaymaker’s seeking to understand Menorca’s history and culture better can head to Cuitadella on the north west coast. In the past, the town was the island’s capital and now it remains an important religious centre with a pretty old town and harbour for visitors to explore. Or, a great way to get to know the locals is to get involved in the summer fiesta celebrations, where horse stunts and parades are just some of the attractions. Employees at the Menorca hotels in the local area will be able to advise on where and when to go.

After getting a taste of local history and culture, visitors can sit down to a hearty Menorcan meal. Local food in Menorca comprises plenty of fresh ingredients and local produce. The Balearics are known for their tasty stews in particular, featuring meats or a range of vegetables. To compliment the local food, international dishes are readily available for tourists to enjoy at Menorca hotels and local restaurants, including British and Italian menus. Meanwhile, Menorca is also known for its gin and trip to the Xoriguer Distillery will have you enjoying this popular island beverage in no time.

Majorca has long been a favourite holiday destination for sun-seeking Brits. During the peak season months of June to September, the beaches, bars and many cheap hotels in Majorca are filled with enthusiastic holidaymakers. It’s not just UK travellers who enjoy the island, either. The King and Queen of Spain themselves were among the visitors this summer when they stopped on the island for their regular Balearics holiday. There’s no doubt that visiting during the summer months can be an exhilarating experience – particularly if you head to Magaluf to soak up the party atmosphere – but it can sometimes seem a bit too hectic. So for a quieter sunshine break away from the crowds a winter trip to the island is recommended.

Majorca’s ‘something for everybody’ appeal has had a lot to do with its success. Whether you’re after beaches and seaside fun, or culture and fine cuisine, you’ll find something to suit. Families, couples, groups of friends, those on a budget, those with money, or those just looking for a change of scene can all find something in Majorca.

In many ways the island attracts with its tried and tested formula. You know where you stand with Majorca and know what you’re going to get when you arrive. This is particularly comforting for holidaymakers who find that their budgets are stretched and who may not want to take too much of a gamble with their cash right now, while the many cheap hotels in Majorca help to ease the burden even further. In another sense, though, there’s so much on offer in Majorca that you could go back again and again and have a completely different experience every time.

The island’s year-round temperatures are a distinct advantage. Average temperatures reach highs of 29°C in August and then remain over 20°C into October meaning autumn visitors can experience the island’s offerings in comfort as well as relative peace and quiet.

From the sights and museums offered by the capital of Palma de Majorca – including the impressive gothic Palma Cathedral and 14th century Bellver Castle – to the island’s many and varied picturesque beaches, there is plenty to be enjoyed.

Visiting during winter, when the peak season crowds are dying down, is certainly a great way to get to know the real Majorca. You’ll also be able to take advantage of out of season prices at one of the many Majorca hotels so keep an eye out for deals online to get the most out of your money on your Balearic Island holiday.