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2017: Best Boutique Hotels in the World

Hotel chains bank on being similar no matter where you are geographically, that’s their business.  Uniformity sells and that’s fine for most, but some travelers want a unique experience when they venture. Boutique hotels are fast becoming the rage in all of your favorite vacation spots. We recently attended the World Boutique Hotel Awards in […]

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2017: Best Boutique Hotels

Hotel chains bank on being similar no matter where you are geographically, that’s their business.  Uniformity sells and that’s fine for most, but some travelers want a unique experience when they venture. Boutique hotels are fast becoming the rage in all of your favorite vacation spots. We recently attended the World Boutique Hotel Awards in London and spoke with some of the hotel world’s leading innovationists. Who knows hotels better than hoteliers?

Here is our list of the best boutique hotels in the world, compiled from the best hoteliers in the business.  

A celebrated panel of voters who are experts in luxury, boutique hotels and first class accommodations decides the World Boutique Hotel Awards.

el nido resorts

El Nido, Philippines

Being as it is winter in the States and huge arctic storms are wreaking havoc on the nation, we may as well start with their award for best Beach or Coastal Hotel: El Nido, Pangulasian Island, Philippines.

El Nido describes itself as “A glittering Island resort with serious eco credentials.” This is a nice summary but this island resort is unlike any other, and uniquely remote. Known as the “Last Frontier,” Palawan Island is a Mecca for nature lovers and eco travelers in general. A little off the beaten path is saying it lightly, just getting to this resort is a whole ordeal. For the adventurous, this eco resort is worth the trouble. El Nido is perfect for the soul-searching vagabond who wants to lie around on deserted beaches and explore undiscovered islands.

El Nido is located on an island with 42 villas, breathtaking views and first class service. A ferry brings you to the resort and you dread the day it comes to take you away. Visitors revel in the fact that there just isn’t enough hours in the day top take it all in.

Highlights include native wildlife, vast reefs to explore and exclusive, candle-lit dinners on the beach.  Villas on stilts over turquoise water and an attentive staff make this boutique villa a must visit in 2017.

http://www.myprivatevillas.com/luxury/caribbean/bahamas/24223/villa-meridian-house-over-yonder-cay?

Over Yonder Cay, Bahamas 

Continuing the trend of best beach hotels, the next award is for World’s Best Private Villa. This award goes to Over Yonder Cay, Bahamas. A sustainable resort located on a private island in the Bahamas, which was developed for the rich and famous.  

Over Yonder Cay welcomes guest to choose between four uniquely designed villas for up to 28 of your closest friends and family.  Each villa is designed specifically to capture the natural beauties of the island.  Villas range from 3 to 4 suites and each sleep up to 8 guests.  Of course the entire island can be reserved for the solitude seeking guests.  

Formerly a remote fishing outpost, the island has been transformed into a sustainable vacation destination for those seeking true privacy and luxury. Boasting 97% sustainability, the island has three wind turbines and a 1.5 acre solar field; producing enough reusable energy for an ultra reliable, generator free island.  

A deep water marina for all your ocean going vessel needs, a beach club for your gathering needs and a water sports cabana encompassing all your aquatic adventures. A private island resort for the upper crust and the elite 1%, Over Yonder Cay is the world’s best private villa winner and rightfully deserved

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g608931-d288372-Reviews-Vigilius_Mountain_Resort-Lana_Province_of_South_Tyrol_Trentino_Alto_Adige.html

Vigilius Mountain Resort, Italy

Once we talk about sustainability it’s hard to not mention this next hotel, voted world’s most sustainable hotel, Vigilius Mountain Resort, in South Tyrol, Italy. Touted as an island in the mountains, Vigilius Mountain Resort has no roads leading up to it; visitors instead take a private cable car up the 1,500 meter accent to the mountaintop.

Vigilius Mountain Resort offers an eco friendly getaway with astonishing views of the Dolomite Mountains and delivering superb alpine and northern-Italian fare. A truly remote setting allows guests to remove themselves from today’s technological pressures and annoyances. Zero cars, traffic or noise pollution of any kind can reach this mountaintop resort.

Built and designed with nature in mind, Vigilius resembles a fallen tree and has 360-degree views of the entire mountain range. From sunsets to sunrises every room has a view and is the perfect place to find serenity.

With a goal to leave no carbon footprint, Vigilius sets the bar by using locally sourced products, sustainable resources and eco friendly building materials. Even the kitchen only uses locally supplied produce and meats.

trip advisor

Aenaon VIllas, Greece

From eco to romance, we shift to this year’s most romantic hotel: Aenaon Villas, Santorini, Greece. Located on an island in the Southern Aegean Sea, this beauty is the quintessential romantic vacation spot on most people’s bucket list.

Adorned by steep cliffs and endless views, the Aenaon Villas sits upon an ancient volcanic caldera. Multi-colored cliffs dot the coastline and volcanic sand beaches await the seasoned traveler.

The resort is located on the narrowest part of the island, giving it the most spectacular views. There are seven private villas, each with their own unique veranda and infinity pool. The villas were built with traditional Cycladic architecture to encompass the local history and natural harmony.

Santorini is a lovers’ getaway and Aenaon Villas represents the perfect romantic vacation. Greece is the cradle of civilization and Santorini acts as a bridge between history and luxury.

Award Winning Hotels:

For more amazing boutique hotels, check out this list of other winners from the World Boutique Hotel Awards:

Voted Best Honeymoon Hideaway: Punta Tragara, Capri, Italy

Voted Best New Hotel: Hotel Gotham, Manchester, UK

Voted Best Culinary Hotel, Vila Joya, Algrave, Portugal

Voted Best Wellness Spa: Borgo Egnazia, Puglia, Italy

Voted Best Boutique Hotel: Secret Bay, Dominica, West Indies

 

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Guides

Everything You Need To Know About The Longest Cruise In The World

Viking Cruises recently announced they will soon be offering one-of-a-kind cruise experience will take 245 days and will visit a whopping 59 countries.

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Got $93,000 laying around and about 8 months to kill? Then do we have the experience for you!

Viking Cruises recently announced they will soon be offering one of the most unique and elaborate cruise experiences the world has ever seen. It’s called Viking Sun and it’s a giant, 465-room vessel that can house up to 930 people. But that’s not what makes this cruise so insane. The entire trip will take 245 days and will visit a whopping 59 countries. I probably can’t even name more than 30 off the top of my head.

The cruise will start in London and the first voyage is set for August 31, 2019, and will cover some of the most interesting places in the world and everything in-between. Just look at this list of places its passengers will see: Greenland, Iceland, the Caribbean Islands, much of South America, Southeast Asia, the Mediterranean, Egypt, and even Jordan and Oman. And those are just the big hitters. There are many other lesser-known stops along the way that are sure to be worth the stop.

Now, naturally, 245 days and $93,000 (technically $92,990) is a lot to ask for most people. So Viking is offering people the change to take part in smaller portions of the grand trip. “Viking World Treasures” covers 127 days, 33 countries, costs $47,995, and stops in Los Angeles. While “Viking World Wonders” covers 119 days, 29 countries, costs $45,995 and replaces any World Treasures participants by picking up new passengers in Los Angeles who get to enjoy the return trip to London.

And while even those prices seem pretty darn high, we haven’t even covered the amenities yet. The ship includes private balconies in each cabin, an infinity pool, a Nordic sauna, and a “snow grotto.” Not to mention the price of admission covers business class airfare, free luggage shipping, transfers to and from the ship, all gratuities and service fees, complimentary shore excursions in every port and, maybe most importantly of all, unlimited free Wi-Fi.

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Tokyo Disney Will Soon Feature “Tangled” And “Frozen” Villages

Tokyo Disneyland will soon feature entire villages dedicated to Tangled and Frozen.

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If you haven’t really ever considered taking a trip to Tokyo and checking out Tokyo Disneyland… it’s time to start considering it. Disney fans were dancing in the streets when they heard the latest news: Tokyo Disneyland will soon feature entire villages dedicated to Tangled and Frozen! Yeah. You heard me right.

The scheduled open date is for some time in 2022. It comes as part of a complete overhaul of their DisneySea attraction and will also include an extensive Peter Pan experience. Here’s a closer look at what they’re planning.

TANGLED VILLAGE

For those that are still missing out and haven’t yet seen Tangled, it’s a new take on the famous story of Rapunzel. The Tokyo Disneyland Tangled Village will include Rapunzel’s tower, the nearby forest, and the restaurant where Rapunzel and her prince, Flynn, dine and sing the wonderful song “I’ve Got a Dream.” And yes, the restaurant will be a fully functional restaurant where you can get a delicious meal. So fun!

PETER PAN VILLAGE

Tokyo Disneyland is also just straight up adding Neverland. So cool. Naturally, you’ll get to meet Tinkerbell and Captain Hook while you’re there. And there will also be a functional restaurant inspired by the Lost Boys and their famous hideout. If you’re like me and never want to grow up, this will be the place for you.

FROZEN VILLAGE

Frozen is one of the biggest Disney hits in a very, very long time. We still can’t go a week without hearing some version of “Let It Go,” whether it be the real, recorded version or just some adorable kid belting it out while their parents roll their eyes.

From the official statement from Disney, the Frozen village will be “a heartwarming new attraction that will take guests by boat to experience the story of Elsa and Anna while enjoying iconic songs from the hit film, and a new restaurant will be located inside Arendelle Castle.” Yeah. They’re building the castle. I can’t wait!

A NEW LUXURY HOTEL

The renovation will also include a brand new amazing luxury hotel. It will reportedly be “themed to Disney fantasy” and will offer amazing views of all the different areas of the new development. It will also include 475 rooms, two restaurants, and a shop where you can grab all the Disney gear your heart desires.

THE WHOLE SHEBANG

I mean COME ON! Doesn’t that just look magical! I guess we shouldn’t expect any less from Disney. I just wish 2022 wasn’t so far away. But make no mistake… I’ll be there!

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Disaster That Can Occur When Traveling And How You Can Respond

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The lockdowns due to the pandemic have led people to travel at massive rates. This summer is going to be full of travel despite prices going up for everything worldwide. Gas prices are something that are crippling some families as prices have doubled in some locations in the US. There are issues that can arise when traveling that you might have to deal with. Most people have had to deal with one or more of these situations when traveling during their lifetime. The following are typical disasters that can occur while traveling and how to respond. 

Involved In A Car Accident

If you have been involved in a car accident then you need to contact a local attorney. Finding out what to do when involved in car accidents in Georgia or your location is very important. Driving in a new city can be overwhelming as some locations are known for extremely aggressive driving. Taking an Uber or taxi is another option but this doesn’t eliminate the possibility of an accident but could reduce it. 

Flights Delayed For Days Or Completely Cancelled

Flights getting delayed due to weather is something that happens around the world. What has been happening domestically is a shortage of airline workers is leading to cancellations unexpectedly. Some airlines have more flights canceled than others which you need to keep in mind. The tough aspect of this is that it could be days until there is another flight that will reach your ultimate destination. Take the time to look at options like that of a train as this can be a convenient option with less of a chance of a delay. 

Getting Sick While Traveling Abroad

Getting sick while traveling abroad is something that people have nightmares about. These can be a huge issue especially when the rest of your party has left the country. You want to ensure you are going to travel in good health as a long flight while under the weather can be disastrous. Food poisoning is quite common for travelers that are trying new foods that might not agree with their stomachs. You want to ensure you are getting enough rest and washing your hands regularly. You do not want a preventable sickness to arise just before you are about to head back home. 

Arrested Due To A Cultural Misunderstanding 

The most important thing that you can do when traveling abroad is to look up local laws and customs. You do not want to be arrested due to a misunderstanding. You also should realize that some police might be looking for a bribe as this is common in some foreign countries like Brazil where the police force is notoriously corrupt. Certain countries are governed by religious governments so something that is not remotely illegal domestically could land you in prison internationally. 

Traveling can allow you to broaden your horizons and see all the world has to offer. Plan what you can as luck will always play a role in having what you deem as a successful trip.

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