Top 5 hidden hotels of Sri Lanka

<div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, the best way experience the island’s rich diversity is to circumnavigate the country on a round tour. Sri Lanka is famed for golden beaches, elephant-inhabited wildlife reserves and ancient temples, yet there is so much more to see if you step a little off the tourist trail: cloud-capped mountains for trekking, hills ringed by tea bushes and historic homesteads set in magical rural surroundings. The following is our guide to five of Sri Lanka’s best hidden hotels, in the natural order of a typical round tour itinerary.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.thewallawwa.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>The Wallawwa</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Although just 15 minutes’ drive from Sri Lanka’s international airport, this historic manor house-turned-boutique hotel feels worlds away.  Set in three acres of 200-year-old tropical gardens amidst idyllic rural countryside, this is the oldest manor house of its kind in the area, and dates back to the eighteenth-century Dutch colonial period.  Having been beautifully refurbished and extended, it now has 17 stylish rooms and suites, a superb restaurant supported by produce from the hotel’s organic garden and an indulgent spa.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="The Wallawwa, Gardens and Pool" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43232" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/The-Wallawwa-Gardens-and-Pool.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.bv-retreat.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Bougainvillea Retreat</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Just 40-minutes’ drive east of Kandy and the island’s famous Temple of the Tooth is the <a href="http://www.bv-retreat.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Bougainvillea Retreat</a>, a serene 8-room hotel set amidst a personable Tuscan-style villa. Despite the well-stocked library, spa and underground cinema, the biggest draw here is the idyllic pool, views of the mountains and the experiences that can be enjoyed in the surrounding area: trekking in the Knuckles or Hantane ranges, or perhaps enjoying the hospitality of a renowned local artist at his home in Kandy.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Bougainvillea" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43228" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Bougainvillea.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.koslanda.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Living Heritage Koslanda</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Travel south from Kandy over the island’s highest ranges to the south-easterly edge of the Hill Country to little-known Koslanda, a hillside hamlet ringed by ancient rubber plantations.  It’s also home to one of the island’s most secluded retreats. <a href="http://www.koslanda.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Living Heritage Koslanda</a> is a four-bedroom boutique hotel immersed in 60 acres of gardens and wildlife-filled forest. This is the perfect place to relax and unwind, or explore the rich surroundings. We love the walk down to a secret waterfall where, if you’re lucky, you might glimpse passing elephants.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Living Heritage" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43231" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Living-Heritage.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.kahandakanda.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Kahanda Kanda</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> When it comes to Sri Lanka’s beach-blessed south coast, many opt to stay right by the sea, but step inland and you get the best of both worlds.  Just inland from Koggala, and a 30-minute drive from Galle, is <a href="http://www.kahandakanda.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Kahanda Kanda</a>, a boutique hotel set on its own 12-acre hilltop tea estate. Tea is grown abundantly on Galle’s lowland hills and a stay here lets you experience the island’s tea culture just 30 minutes from the beach.  The lavish suites and living and dining areas perch in pavilions on a ridge enjoying views across tea fields, jungle and Koggala Lake.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Kahanda Kanda dining pavilion over pool" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43229" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Kahanda-Kanda-dining-pavilion-over-pool.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.casacolombo.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Casa Colombo Collection, Colombo</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo is no secret, however many bypass the city on their way in or out of the country.  In the last few years, the city has improved dramatically, with its share of sights, exciting shopping, diverse restaurants and bars, and is well worth a stop of a night or two. Where to stay? At <a href="http://www.casacolombo.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Casa Colombo</a> in downtown Bambalapitiya, a unique hotel famed for its retro-chic interior design.  It’s housed in a 200-year-old Moorish mansion and promises indulgences in the form of private butlers, spacious suites and a pink pool.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Casa Colombo" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43227" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Casa-Colombo.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <em>Katie Cosstick is the PR Manager at <a href="http://www.coxandkings.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Cox & Kings</a>.</em></div>

Top 5 hidden hotels of Sri Lanka

If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, the best way experience the island’s rich diversity is to circumnavigate the country on a round tou...

Read more »

4 amazing castles in France

<div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury holiday, you simply can’t beat a trip to France. And to push the envelope even further, book some accommodation in a genuine castle. Living like royalty for a weekend will be an experience you will never forget. Awe inspiring castles around the world are favourites among photographers and travellers, but nothing can compare to actually living in one. So, without further ado, here’s our top 4 amazing castles in France.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.chateauchallain.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Chateau de Challain, France</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> With 12 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms and big enough to sleep 28 people, this spectacular castle is a sight to behold, with an interior that would leave guests stunned. Located in one of the original 83 departments created during the French Revolution on March 4, 1790; Maine-et-Loire. known as the Garden of France, the Loire Valley boasts and abundance of Vineyards and fruit orchards, it is one of the world’s most well-known areas for wine production.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Chateau de Challain" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43245" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Chateau-de-Challain.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The castle itself is situated on beautiful grounds filled with gardens and only 30 minutes from Paris via high speed train. Guests are spoilt by staff, with all meals included. Both the exterior and interior are styled with wood sculptures, gothic panelling, large fire places and French painting on the ceilings.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.chateauxmirambeau.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Chateau de Mirambeau, Charente, France</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> This 11th century castle is perfect for large gatherings, with 24 bedrooms, 24 bathrooms and enough room for 48 people.The castle is situated near Cognac in Southwest France, and was established on the site of a medieval wood fortress. If you are a Brandy enthusiast, then you will likely be familiar with Cognac as the name of a world famous type of Brandy. The town of Cognac gives its name to drinks made in the area, and are held to very strict regulations to be branded with the famous name.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Chateau de Mirambeau" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43246" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Chateau-de-Mirambeau.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> During your stay at this amazing castle, you will have access to a gymnasium with a sauna, an outdoor swimming pool as well as in indoor spa pool. Once again, staff are available to make your stay even better. What better way to pass the time than sipping Brandy in the spa pool, then exploring the many lounges and living areas? Pure bliss.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.chateaurobertfrance.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Chateau Robert, Landes, France</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> On an expansive 40 acres of landscaped grounds sits this stunning Chateau making for a magical and exclusive hideaway. It has a rather modest 7 bedrooms and bathrooms, and has room for 18 guests. As you’d expect, staff are available, and you even get the use of a car and driver to take you sightseeing, while there is plenty to keep you active at the Chateau. Make use of the tennis court, stroll through the gardens or enjoy a laid-back afternoon dip in the gorgeous swimming pool.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Chateau Robert" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43243" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Chateau-Robert.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Nestled into the beautiful region of Landes which is well known for Europe’s longest beach, Côte d’Argent with over 100km’s of coastline to explore, as well as it’s large pine forests. Fine sandy beaches makes for a wonderful day trip, or if you prefer you can spend the afternoon visiting sidewalk cafes and restaurants. There are also frequent festivals throughout the year.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C3%A2teau_de_Hattonch%C3%A2tel" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Chateau de Hattonchâtel, Vosges, France</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Overlooking the Wouvre Valley, no one can perfectly describe the beauty which this authentic Chateau portrays. An absolutely stunning 12 bedroom and bathroom Chateau that sleeps 26 people standing proud on the hillside with its gables, tall chimneys and pointed towers. Your stay includes meals served by staff, a grand dining room with open fireplace, amazing valley views and beautiful Surrounding gardens.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Chateau de Hattonchatel" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43247" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Chateau-de-Hattonchatel.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The Vosges, which is also known as the Vosges Mountains, is a mountain range in Eastern France along its border with Germany. It makes for very impressive scenery, and the area also has two major nature parks: The Ballons des Vosges Nature Park and the Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park, and is perfect for exploring dense forests with impressive foliage and waterways.</div>

4 amazing castles in France

If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury holiday, you simply can’t beat a trip to France. And to push the envelope even further, book some...

Read more »

5 Central and South American waterfalls that’ll leave you speechless

<div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Waterfalls steal the show when you’re hiking through Central and South America. When you arrive at the waterfalls on this list, you’ll have made your way through some of the most lushly diverse environments in the world. These environments are also some of the most humid, so you’re likely to find a splash in the cascades irresistible.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> When you’re hiking near waterfalls, take care not to slip on the nearby rocks or stone staircases. These are always quite slick with moisture, so make sure to wear shoes with good treads on your hike.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>1. The Devil’s Cauldron, Baños, Ecuador</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The small town of Baños is one of the most popular destinations in Ecuador for outdoor activities. Right outside of town you’ll find the trail called La Ruta de Las Cascadas, which translates to “the route of the waterfalls” in English. Along the trail you’ll get to see some of the area’s most impressive waterfalls, including La Manto de la Novia and the Cascada de Agoyán. But the highlight of this trip is Pailón del Diablo, a mighty waterfall that gushes over the side of a steep cliff.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Pailon Diablo" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43304" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Pailon-Diablo.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> There’s a twisting staircase that leads from the top of the waterfall to the base. This waterfall is so powerful that visitors wear rain gear when they’re descending the rocky staircase to keep the spray from soaking their clothes. Viewing platforms on the way down provide an opportunity for hikers to take a break and admire the torrential downpour.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> La Ruta de Las Cascadas is located near Tungurahua Volcano, one of South America’s most active volcanoes. You can’t hike too close to this natural wonder, but you can see it spewing smoke from a distance.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>2. Gocta Falls, Chachapoyas, Peru</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> At 2,530 feet (771-m), Gocta Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. Gocta Falls only recently became a well-known destination for travellers. In 2005, a German visitor stumbled across it, and quickly realized that it was unknown worldwide.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Gocta Falls" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43305" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Gocta-Falls.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Gocta Falls owes its erstwhile lack of popularity to a local legend. Natives to the area grew up believing in a mermaid who lived in the pool at the base of the waterfall. The Gocta mermaid had a bad habit of drowning the men she seduced, and made the falls an unappealing place to visit. Visitors and locals will attest to the supernatural atmosphere that surrounds the waterfall.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> It takes a couple of hours to hike to Gocta Falls from the small town of Cocachimba. During the drier months the waterfall becomes a narrow stream – it consists only of a white mist by the time it reaches the base of the falls. Gocta divides into separate cascades, forming two distinct drops. The pool you’ll find at the bottom is muddy looking, but the view looking up at this imposing waterfall is well worth the hike.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>3. La Fortuna, Costa Rica</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Travelers typically stop in the town of La Fortuna at some point during their trip to see the Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna’s waterfall is located just 3 miles south of the town, and provides the perfect end to a day of hiking in Arenal National Park.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="La Fortuna" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43309" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/La-Fortuna.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> La Fortuna’s waterfall shoots over a mossy cliff and forms a small, blue-green gem of a swimming hole. This waterfall is 230 feet (70 m) tall. You can clamor over the rocky rim of the pool to splash in the cascade.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>4. Oropendola, Costa Rica</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Oropendola Waterfall is located off one of the paths just outside of the Rincón de La Vieja National Park. You’ll pay a small admission to hike to the Oropendola Falls. From the main gait, it’s a 20-minute walk. This waterfall is 82 feet (25 meters) tall.  The bright-blue plunge pool narrows to a clear stream opposite the waterfall.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Orupendula" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43308" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Orupendula.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Before you visit the falls, take a hiking or horseback tour of the Rincón de La Vieja National Park. It is named after the Rincón de La Vieja Volcano, which erupted in 2011. Because of the fairly recent eruption, visitors cannot hike to the crater of the volcano. But Rincón de la Vieja National Park still has 34,000 acres (12,759 hectares) of wildlife to explore.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>5. Río Celeste, Costa Rica</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Río Celeste waterfall is the highlight of the river that runs through Tenorio National Park. This river flows with strikingly turquoise-colored waters. In English, the word “celeste” translates to sky-blue.  You’ll probably hear words like “fairytale” and “magical” when people talk about the color of the water, but there’s a scientific explanation – the color comes from the calcium carbonate and sulphuric minerals in the water, courtesy of the nearby Tenorio Volcano.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Rio Celeste" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43306" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Rio-Celeste.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Travelers come to Tenorio National Park to see both the volcano and the surrounding cloud forest. This humid, misty environment occurs only at high elevations. It allows moss, bromeliads, and orchids to grow in abundance, adding to the otherworldly appearance of the sky-blue river.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Although this isn’t the tallest waterfall on our list, it is fairly wide, and the force of the water will probably keep you from swimming directly under the cascade. It’s a memorable spot to take a dip, and you can reach it after an hour of hiking. You can also enjoy the waters of the Río Celeste in the hot springs that bubble near the waterfall.</div>

5 Central and South American waterfalls that’ll leave you speechless

Waterfalls steal the show when you’re hiking through Central and South America. When you arrive at the waterfalls on this list, you’ll have...

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Uruguay’s top 5 new luxury properties

<div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Uruguay is not usually at the top of travellers’ wish lists but with relatively few visitors, some surprisingly stylish accommodation options and excellent wild beaches that knock the socks off their Argentinian equivalent, it offers a slice of South America to suit most palates. It’s also fantastic for birders and wine lovers, not to mention one of the safest places in the Americas. So whatever takes your fancy hurry to Uruguay before one of South America’s best kept secrets explodes. I was lucky enough to revisit the country recently, and was blown away by some of the new luxury accommodation on offer:</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.sofitel.com/es/hotel-7969-sofitel-montevideo-casino-carrasco-and-spa/index.shtml" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Sofitel Carrasco, Montevideo</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> A glorious building with wonderfully lofty ceilings and a grandiose French elegance, the <a href="http://www.sofitel.com/es/hotel-7969-sofitel-montevideo-casino-carrasco-and-spa/index.shtml" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Sofitel Carrasco</a> sits right on the seafront. It’s reminiscent of turn of the 20th century Montevideo, and eating breakfast in the main restaurant adorned with monumental chandeliers and stained glass feels very special.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Sofitel Montevideo" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42586" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Sofitel-Montevideo.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The staff here are also incredibly friendly and though it’s a 20 minute ride from the middle of town with its museums and excellent restaurants, it’s worth it for the tranquillity and quality of experience.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://charcohotel.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Charco, Colonia del Sacramento</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Tiny but perfectly formed, a little like Uruguay itself, <a href="http://charcohotel.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Charco</a> wows its visitors. This is boutique accommodation at its best: small and intimate, where you want for nothing. Situated right in the heart of the cobbled streets of old Colonia the property still manages to be fresh and modern. It oozes sophistication without being at all stuffy. This is an absolute gem and is streaks ahead of other lodgings in the town.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Don’t miss sipping a cocktail and looking out over the Rio de la Plata at the Buenos Aires’ skyline in the distance as the sun goes down.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.narbona.com.uy/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Finca Narbona, Carmelo</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> For those in search of Uruguay’s undiscovered yet decidedly impressive wines, look no further than <a href="http://www.narbona.com.uy/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Finca Narbona</a>. Aside from the winery producing some of South America’s finest vinos, the neighbouring hotel is reminiscent of southern European bodegas coupled with undeniable South America charm. They have six stylish and tastefully designed rooms overlooking the vineyards and a glorious restaurant. It’s recently obtained Relais and Chateaux status but still remains somewhat of a secret outside of Uruguay.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Habitacion Narbona" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42585" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Habitacion-Narbona.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The understated and exclusive nature, combined with some of the best wines I’ve tasted in South America, gives Finca Narbona and Carmelo the edge over some of South America’s more famous wine producing nations.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.estanciavikjoseignacio.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Estancia Vik, José Ignacio</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> You may have read great write-ups about this stunning property in terms of its surroundings and design features, but to actually stay here is something else. It’s proud of its traditional heritage and you can expect a wonderful ride on a beautiful horse with a gaucho in the morning, indulge in an asado (BBQ) at lunch time before relaxing by the pool in the afternoon. Moreover the service is superb and cunningly elevates your stay to an experience. Suites are vast and striking, and with no detail overlooked it’s unlikely you’ll want to leave.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Estancia Vik" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42584" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Estancia-Vik.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.bahiavik.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strong>Bahia Vik, José Ignacio</strong></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The newest Jose Ignacio property from the stylish Vik team, <a href="http://www.bahiavik.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Bahia Vik</a> is tucked away behind the sand dunes just outside the village. A little more family friendly than the beautiful Playa Vik which lies in the village itself, Bahia Vik has the same impeccable attention-to-detail, modern styling and wonderful food and wines.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The beach and Atlantic Ocean are a mere 20 metres away from the swimming pools and there is ample lounging space with views to both. Jose Ignacio itself is a sleepy little place (apart from the party weeks of Christmas and New Year), with just a few streets criss-crossing a peninsula, a lighthouse at its tip and some world-class restaurants. No wonder it is a favourite haunt of the Latin American A-list!</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <em>Craig Burkinshaw is a Founder Director of <a href="http://www.audleytravel.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Audley Travel</a>.</em></div>

Uruguay’s top 5 new luxury properties

Uruguay is not usually at the top of travellers’ wish lists but with relatively few visitors, some surprisingly stylish accommodation optio...

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3 ways to take luxurious holidays that do not ‘cost the Earth’

<div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> There is no doubt that the belief in sustainable practices are growing at home and abroad. Discerning consumers are increasingly choosing to spend their money with brands and companies who have a social conscience and give back to Mother Nature or their local communities. “According to a study by the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), the percentage of US companies with travel reservation policies that require or recommend that a hotel adopt sustainability measures has risen from 11% in<br />2011, to 19% today.”</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Here are 3 ways you can travel green without sacrificing those special little luxuries:</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>Opt for responsibility</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Chosoe a hotel or resort with a social and ethical responsibility policy. The list of operators that offer more than simply offering to wash your towels and sheets less is on the up. Seek out places that support their local schools, have solar panels to conserve energy, have living gardens offering farm to table experiences or go further and stay in a sustainable luxury hotel like <a href="http://www.1hotel.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">1Hotel.com</a> just opening up in Central Park & Brooklyn, NYC and South Beach, Miami. In the words of its CEO Barry Sternlicht, “We aren’t just focused on making our hotels better, we want to make the world better.”</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Responsible travel" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42598" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Responsible-travel_14778571.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>Try to give back</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Choose a tour operator that gives you an eco-experience. Stay places that allow you to get involved with the community and give back. <a href="http://www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">National Geographic Expeditions</a> has high-end eco tours to destinations on all seven continents with all proceeds directed to National Geographic research programmes. Take a trip to the<a href="http://www.governorscamp.com/property-descriptions/silverback-lodge-parc-national-des-volcans-rwanda" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge</a> in Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans which is the habitat of the endangered mountain gorilla. All profits are used to finance local community and conservation initiatives.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Rwanada gorilla" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42599" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Rwanada-gorilla_138921731.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>Use independently tested hotels</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Turn to websites like <a href="http://www.ecoluxhotels.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Eco Lux Hotels</a> for a wealth of luxury eco hotel options all over the world that are rigorously tested by their group of independent experts & journalists to ensure standards are met. This group of journalists and technical experts personally visit and assess each hotel on their site to make sure that they live up to real meaning of sustainability.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Eco hotel" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42600" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Eco-hotel_89941096.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Images: <a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Shutterstock</a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <em>Dahlia Nahome is the General Manager of <a href="http://www.ranchocielo.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Rancho Cielo</a>.</em></div>

3 ways to take luxurious holidays that do not ‘cost the Earth’

There is no doubt that the belief in sustainable practices are growing at home and abroad. Discerning consumers are increasingly choosing t...

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6 secrets of the Maldives

<div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The Maldives is one of the world’s most romantic destinations, but you’d be forgiven for not knowing it can also be a place, where even the most avid adventurer would be at home. The Maldives is renowned for its luxurious resorts that offer intimate settings, but it’s also home to breath-taking dive sights, deserted islands, ship-wrecks and plenty of hidden gems that you might not have heard about. How many of the ‘secrets’ do you know?</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>Secret 1: Submarine diving</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The Maldivian capital of Male has an array of multi-coloured skyscrapers that takes over its spectacular skyline, but it’s actually under the waves where the most breath-taking sights unfold. View the underwater magic whilst staying dry, and experience something that’s usually reserved for those in a wet suit.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Submarine, Maldives" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42594" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Submarine-Maldives.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The ‘<a href="http://www.whalesubmarine.com.mv/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Whale</a>’ submarine reaches depths of 150m and for those who don’t dive, this is the perfect way to see the exciting creatures that inhabit the Indian Ocean. The cabins are fully air-conditioned, and with normal atmospheric pressure, you’ll breathe normally as you discover the wonders that lie under the sea.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>Secret 2: Underwater bedroom</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The Maldives is packed full of stunning hotels, with luxurious settings, but one that really sticks out is the underwater bedroom on the remote <a href="http://conradhotels3.hilton.com/en/hotels/maldives/conrad-maldives-rangali-island-MLEHICI/index.html" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Rangali Island</a>. Located 5m below the surface, you’ll have the opportunity to sleep under the sea, and spend the night ‘sleeping with the fishes’.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Underwater bedroom, Maldives" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42593" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Underwater-bedroom-Maldives.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Reached only by a spiral staircase, you’ll have the opportunity to wake up and witness one of the most unique views on the planet. By day the underwater bedroom is a restaurant called ‘Ithaa’ and seats 12 people – so if you don’t fancy sleeping underwater and paying £8,000 for the privilege, then maybe some gourmet ‘fusion Maldives cuisine’ could be an acceptable alternative.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>Secrets 3: Deserted islands</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> One of the great things about the Maldives is that with over 800 of its 1190 islands deserted, isn’t really that difficult to find some private paradise. If you venture to Addu City you’ll find Bodu Hajara, where you’ll have no problem creating your very own ‘Robinson Crusoe’ experience. OK, so Mr Crusoe didn’t have a butler service or an array of gourmet cuisine, but being surrounded by nothing but the Indian Ocean in all directions, will no doubt make you feel like you’re the only one left in the world. Kanuri in Kolumadulu is another great spot for a romantic picnic on a deserted island.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Deserted island, Maldives" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42592" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Deserted-island-Maldives.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>Secret 4: True experience dive sites</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The Maldives offers some of the best dive spots in the world, but most people will venture to the more well-known sites in Ari Atoll. For those wanting something a little more romantic, and more rewarding, then head to South Male Atoll. The area is remote and offers a more intimate dive spot, in a region that follows a more authentic Maldivian way of life.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Best dive spots, Maldives" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42591" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Best-dive-spots-Maldives.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The unique dive spots in South Male Atoll not only harbour beautiful coral gardens, but also have plenty of caves and ship wrecks to explore – perfect for those wanting a more than just exotic sea creatures.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>Secret 5: Whale shark diving</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> When swimming with sharks, it usually involves being lowered into the water with a cage wrapped round you. The Maldives changes this cliché, and in the region of South Ari Atoll you’ll find a unique experience, with one of the most visually stunning creatures on the planet – the whale shark. Growing up to 40ft in length, this striking species can also weigh up to 21.5 metric tonnes. Whilst the stats are intimidating, whale sharks are non-aggressive, and known to be very playful and docile in their nature. They are a firm favourite with advanced snorkelers, divers and swimmers.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Whale shark diving, Maldives" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42589" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Whale-shark-diving-Maldives.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <strong>Secret 6: Seaplane airport</strong></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> OK, so the seaplane isn’t so much of a secret, but what you don’t normally find out until you arrive is how much fun you can have at the airport! Whilst the seaplane transfer is a must experience in itself, it’s those little luxuries pre-flight that make the trip worthwhile.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Seaplane, Maldives" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42590" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Seaplane-Maldives.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Whisked off to the VIP area on arrival, you’ll enjoy refreshments, and plenty of opportunities to relax after your long flight into the Maldives. Spa treatments and champagne are usually on the menu (please check exact details before you book your seaplane transfer, as they can vary), before taking off and enjoying offering panoramic views of the lagoons and islands scattered across the Indian Ocean.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <em>Colin Matthews is the Managing Director at <a href="http://www.travelclubelite.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Travel Club Elite</a>.</em></div>

6 secrets of the Maldives

The Maldives is one of the world’s most romantic destinations, but you’d be forgiven for not knowing it can also be a place, where even the...

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8 of the world’s ‘ultra luxe’ bathrooms

<div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> We spend a lot of time in the bathroom. A good bathroom is a necessity, a beautiful bathroom is a luxury, but the following bathrooms, are just out of this world. I like to put them in the ‘Ultra Luxe’ box. A section of the ‘marketing mix’ which has been thoroughly thought about and is all about the experience. I am sure you won’t forget a shower or bath in the following properties in a hurry. I have travelled the world to bring you my top 8 ‘ultra luxe’ bathrooms.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.seasonsinafrica.com/lodges-in-south-africa/kruger-lowveld-lodges/the-outpost-kruger-national-park/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Outpost Lodge</a> overlooks the Luvuvha River, found in one of the most remote parts of Kruger National Park in in South Africa. All bedrooms are en suite and have amazing views over the park & river. Each suite comes with an outdoor terrace and day bed.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="The Outpost Lodge bath" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-36401" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/the-outpost-lodge-1.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.behobeho.com/treehouse.htm" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Tree House</a> at Beho Beho Game Reserve, Selous, Tanzania. Outdoor showers are not a new concept, but this is a tree house… with running water and flushing toilets. Luxury safari’s have stepped up and now you can shower in luxury in the most rural of areas.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Tree House Beho shower" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-36402" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/tree-house-beho-2.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.velaaprivateisland.com/place/romantic-pool-residence/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Romantic Pool Residence</a> on Velaa Private Island in the Maldives. Cast away and only accessible by boat, could one ever get bored of bathing and looking out over the Indian Ocean?</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Romantic Pool Resience bath" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-36400" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Romantic-pool-residence-3.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.villalerose.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Villa Le Rose</a> in Tuscany, a property of one of the Ferragamo brothers, this bathroom was big enough for a 3 piece sofa and completely made out of marble. One of the most incredible bathrooms I have seen. Step just outside the bedroom and you arrive in the ballroom – a great setting for a ball!</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Villa Le Rose bathroom" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-36403" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Villa-le-rose-4.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://chalet-n.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Chalet N</a> in Lech, Austria is like showering in a rainforest of diamonds. The impressive chalet proves that luxury has no bounds.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Chlaet N Lech" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-36404" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/chalet-n-lech-5.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.desroches-island.com/en/resort/accommodation/luxury-beach-suite" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Luxury Beach Suite</a>, Desroches Island, Seychelles. The spacious air-conditioned double bedroom overlooks the private deck, with its secluded outdoor shower under the exotic island foliage on the water’s edge. To boost the sensual experience, the large bathroom is intimately enclosed by lush island vegetation and boasts four showers!</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Luxury Beach Suite" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-36405" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/luxury-beach-suite-6.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> The honeymoon bath in <a href="http://www.seasonsinafrica.com/lodges-in-south-africa/madikwe-hills-lodges/madikwe-hills-private-game-lodge/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge</a> is built into a well concealed corner of your private terrace where you can soak under the African skies and watch the Big 5 casually pass you by.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Honeymoon bath lodge" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-36406" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Honeymoon-bath-lodge-7.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <a href="http://www.chaletquezac.com/" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Chalet Quezac</a> in Tignes les Brevieres – this is one of only two glass baths in the world! A difficult concept to grasp, and for many, not sure how enticing it is. But for the sheer fact these baths are a very limited edition, it had to be included.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <img alt="Chalet Quezac" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-36408" height="385" src="http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/chalet-quezac-tignes-8.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); margin: 0px 0px 5px 10px; padding: 2px;" width="460" /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.7999992370605px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <em>Holly McQueen is Sales Manager for <a href="http://www.indigolodges.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #336699; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Indigo Lodges</a>.</em></div>

8 of the world’s ‘ultra luxe’ bathrooms

We spend a lot of time in the bathroom. A good bathroom is a necessity, a beautiful bathroom is a luxury, but the following bathrooms, are ...

Read more »