01 Mar 2010 Buenos Aires my love.

Very often friends or people I come across who realize my extensive travel experience, they ask me: Which city in the world is your favorite one?
Well, I have been blessed and lucky to have seen so many cities around the globe and yet the answer comes almost spontaneously in my mouth: Buenos Aires.
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The cosmopolitan metropolis has it all: Parisian allure, New York’s night life, Amsterdam’s boheme, London’s frenzy shopping and the mentality of Barcelona.

Don’t think of it too much. You’ve been planning it long enough. Come to Buenos Aires and you’ll understand why so many people have fallen in love with this incredible city, and even decided to stay. There’s a good chance you’ll be one of them.
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After having spend quite a few time over there the last 5 years, I’ll try to give you an insider’s view of the city’s best spots, the view of a ¨porteño¨ aka the attractive resident of Buenos Aires.

FOOD

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There are 3 distinct types of restaurants in the city: Parillas (Steakhouses) , Bodegones ( Tavernas) and Modern restaurants.
PARILLAS
In a land where beef is sacred and the grilling of the meat is almost a religious ceremony, it is exceptionally hard to pinpoint the best spots. In my short list, however, are:
Desnivel: the most casual of all yet with awesome meat. (Defensa 855, San Telmo, tel. 4300 9081)
El Primo: Cosy and the highlight being the fact that they bring you a mini-grill to do your own cooking. (Humboldt y Gorriti, Palermo Hollywood, tel. 4899 1791)
Gran Parrilla del Plata: Classical but elegant and with a local charm. (Chile 594 y Perú, San Telmo, tel. 4300 8858)
La Cabrera: The most famous steakhouse of Buenos Aires, lives up to its fame and even more. Reserve well ahead. (Cabrera 5127/5099, Palermo Soho, tel. 4832 5754)
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BODEGONES
Most of those places have been in the hands of today’s owners for generations. Usually immigrants from Italy or Spain, the hosts keep their recipes intact from influences and tradition is sacred. The atmosphere in those places is truly unique and the majority of them have been declared by the municipality of Buenos Aires as Cultural Monuments.
El Preferido de Palermo: Grab your camera because the clock will go at least 100 years back. An old grocery now serves some food. (Borges 2108, Palermo Soho, tel. 4774 6585)
La Coruña: Unique atmosphere and original recipes. I love the soda siphons… (Bolívar 994, San Telmo, tel. 4362 7637)
Lo de Jesús: Every day at 11 am the 92 year owner visits his place at grabs his favourite spot ordering a vermut with a ham platter. Do the same. (Gurruchaga 1406, Palermo Soho, tel. 4831 1961)
Margo: It was so famous that even Peron himself was a frequent patron of this picturesque taverna. (Avenida Boedo 857, Boedo, tel. 4957 0001)
Paulín: Not only UFO’s fly but the plates are too in this amazing joint. Try the 3-storey sandwich. Ideal for lunch when you are at the center. Sarmiento 635, Microcentro, tel. 4325 2280)
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MODERN RESTAURANTS
The scene of restaurants is endlessly diverse with extremely good design tastes and looks. Young chefs are lifting the bar very high and the result is a drop-dead-gorgeous restaurant scene.
Our HOT PICKS:
In Palermo, the neighbourhood everybody falls madly in love with, you’ll encounter the best restaurants and the sexiest bars :
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Bar 6 for every time of the day, Cluny elegant and stylish, Mott to see and to be seen, Tegui the new kid in town, Olsen hip and cool, don’t miss the Sunday brunch, Lele de Troya, fairytale atmosphere and eclectic furnishings, Sifones y Dragones, eccentric and intimate, El Ultimo Beso, unique concept and classy ambience, Acabar neon lighting and stylish kitsch, Andy Warhol would crash here.

In other parts of the town:

Million, eat and party in a mansion, Sucre, glam crowds and celebrities, the place not to miss, Novecento, vibrant, cool faces and fancy cocktails.
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BARS/CLUBS
Le Bar, a reason to party downtown, 878, too good to be kept a secret for such long time,
Asia de Cuba, wannabe actors and models, Niceto Club, always trendy, always with happenings. Casa Cruz, stylish and sexy, Gran Bar Danzón is undoubtedly one of the kings of the BA bar scene.

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HOTELS

It’s no longer enough to throw an expensive rug on the floor, buy some kitsch furniture, decorate each room differently and put the word ’boutique’ somewhere in the name. Thanks to Buenos Aires, the term “boutique” is renovated and the result is absolutely amazing. Often refurbished old houses, the best of them retaining some of their previous grandeur. Other are true design gems. But everybody agrees that the intimate service and natural politeness of the staff make a win-win combination.
The devalued peso gives you the chance to live a 5 star luxury at 3 star rate, so don’t miss the chance.

Our FAVORITES:

BOBO: Bo Bo stands for ‘bohemian-bourgeois’: it offers individuality alongside style and comfort. Each of the 15 rooms in this popular, high-concept boutique hotel represents a 20th-century art or design movement. Themes rooms and, a sense of affordable luxury runs throughout. Lucky you, there’s a superb restaurant downstairs.

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JARDIN ESCONDIDO: the jardín escondido (hidden garden) is conveniently low profile and discrete. The owner Francis Ford Coppola wants privacy, same do most of its guests. The house can be rented as a whole or by sector (upper, lower), and very occasionally, by room. There’s a compact studio and six double bedrooms, with colonial decoration and named after members of the Coppola family. Excellent location in the heart of trendy Palermo, although you can easily remain hidden during your stay: The concierge can arrange for a barbecue you’ll never forget, or order some ultra hip takeaway and watch one of the 150 DVDs in Coppola’s collection.
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LEGADO MITICO: a gem in Buenos Aires. Concept rooms taken from Argentina’s most influential people (mythical legacy is the actual translation of the name of the hotel) like Che Guevara, Evita Peron, Borges and others. Breakfasts are delightful and the common areas have a huge supply of books on everything to do with Argentina so you may spend time out reading history and discovering the cultural side of the country. As there are only a dozen rooms, sometimes you feel as if you are the only quests living in a beautifully renovated home.
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MINE: The latest addition to the boutique hotel scene of Buenos Aires, is unpretentious and charming. Sleek lines, fresh design, fantastic location in the best part of town, professional and friendly staff , excellent price-value relationship.
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LAST BUT NOT LEAST Hotel Faena and Universe is perhaps one of the most unique hotels in the world. An unparallel universe of design and fantasy, will be a crime leaving Buenos Aires and at least not having paid a visit to this incredible hotel.

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RENTAL APARTMENTS
If you’re looking for a place to call home – at least temporarily – then Buenos Aires can offer you a great choice of rental apartments in BA’s nicest neighbourhoods. Ranging in style from classic to contemporary, wit a complimentary concierge service and often with huge swimming pools and barbeques. Especially if you plan to stay more than a week this is your best option.

Our TOP CHOICES:
Baires Apartments and Zen Propriedades.
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Be sure to visit the sites, take amusing perspective shots of the Obelísco, and watch a tango show, but also spend hours in coffee shops, visit cafe Tortoni, chat for hours after your steak dinner and stay up until dawn, partying with BA’s carefree and beautiful young crowd. Through its chaotic and frenetic exterior, you will see that much of the city is beautiful, with grandiose buildings, world-class art galleries, fine restaurants and a thriving fashion industry.
Buenos Aires, you see, is not a city to visit, but a city to live in. We say so. Prove us wrong…

savas kazantzides
travel connoisseur
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11 Feb 2010 Best Restaurants in Barcelona, Madrid, Milan, Rome

BARCELONA (updated Feb. 11, 2010)
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Bar Mut
Bar Mut has an ineffably Gallic feel, with its etched glass, bronze fittings, chanteuses on the sound system, and Paris prices. The tapas are undeniably superior, however: try everything from a carpaccio of scallops and sea urchin to fried eggs with foie. Come early in the morning for breakfast dishes such as haricot beans with wild mushrooms and morcilla or poached egg with chips and chorizo sauce. In a word? Formidable.
C/Pau Claris 192 Telephone 93 217 43 38

Can Sole
Portly, jovial waiters have been charming moneyed regulars for over a hundred years at Can Solé. Over time, many of these diners have added to the framed photos, sketches and paintings that line the sky-blue walls. What continues to lure them is the freshest shellfish (share a plate of chipirones in onion and garlic, Cantabrian anchovies or red shrimp to start) and fillets of wild turbot, lobster stews and sticky paellas and a bouillabaisse to die for! Beware the steeply priced extras (coffee, cover).
C/Sant Carles 4, 93 221 50 12

Cinq Sentits
Talented chef Jordi Artal shows respect for the classics (flat coca bread with foie gras and crispy leeks, duck magret with apple), while adding a personal touch in dishes such as a Palamós prawn in ajoblanco (garlic soup) with cherries and an ice-cream made from their stones. To finish, save room for the artisanal Catalan cheeses or the ‘false egg’ with white chocolate around a passionfruit yolk. Thus far overlooked by the Michelin men, this is one of the more affordable of the city’s top-end dining destinations.
C/Aribau 58 Telephone 93 323 94 90

Hisop
Run by two young, enthusiastic and talented chefs, Hisop aims to bring serious dining to the non-expense-account masses by keeping its prices on the low side and its service approachable. The €52 tasting menu is a popular choice among diners with dishes that vary according to the season, but often includes their rich ‘monkfish royale’ (served with its liver, a cocoa-based sauce and tiny pearls of saffron) and a pistachio soufflé with Kaffir lime ice-cream and rocket ’soup’.
Passatge Marimon 9, Sant Gervasi, Telephone 93 241 32 33

La Vinateria del Call
An atmospheric little bar, with a high priority on the sourcing of its wine, hams and cheeses, and excellent home-made dishes, including a delicious fig ice-cream. Despite the antique fittings and dusty bottles, the staff – like the music they play – are young and lively, and some speak English.
C/Sant Domènec del Call 9, 93 302 60 92

Sureny
A well-kept gastronomic secret, Sureny boasts superb gourmet tapas and waiters who know what they’re about. In addition to the usual run-of-the-mill tortilla ‘n’ calamares fare, look out for dishes such as tuna marinated in ginger and soy sauce, partridge, venison and other game when in season, and a sublime duck foie with redcurrant sauce.
Plaça de la Revolució 17, 93 213 75 56

Tapaç24
Tapaç24 is an old-school bar, serving traditional tapas of excellent quality. Among the oxtail stews, fried prawns and cod croquettes, however, fans of Carles Abellan will also find playful snacks more in keeping with his previous style. The McFoie Burger is an exercise in fast-food heaven, as is the Bikini – a small version of his signature take on the ham and cheese toastie, only this one comes with truffle.
C/Diputació 269, 93 488 09 77

MADRID Updated Feb. 1, 2010
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Modern:
Le Dragon, Gil de Santibanez 2, tel. 0034 914356669
La Broche, Calle de Miguel Angel 29, tel 0034 913993437 (Sergio Arola’s restaurant)
Balzac, Moreto 7, tel. 0034 914200613
Zaranda, San benardino 13, 0034 915412026, [creative]
BARS
Bar Cock, C/de Reina 16
Olsen, c/Prado 15, Famous Vodka bar
Ohm, Plaza Callao 4
CLUBS
Sala Stella, C/Arlabán 7. This is a must.

MILAN Updated Feb. 1, 2010
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Pane e Acqua :
Via Bandello 14
Telephone 02 4819 8622
Antica Trattoria della Pesa :
Viale Pasubio 10
Telephone 02 655 5741
Tano passami l’Olio
Via Villoresi 16
Telephone 02 839 4139
Sadler (the best)
Ristorante Sadler
Via Conchetta , 14 (Via Troilo)
(39) 02 581 04 451
Dolce & Gabbana Gold
Via Carlo Poerio 2/A
02 7577771
Paper Moon
(via Bagutta 1)
00 39 02 7602 2297

ROME Updated Feb. 1, 2010
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Atelier Canova Tadolini
Via del Babuino, 150 A/B
+39 0632110702
Ristorante Dal Bolognese
½ Piazza del Popolo, Rome, 187
+39 063611426
Freni e Frizioni (modern and fresh)
Via del Politeama 4-6
Telephone 06 5833 4210
La Gatta Mangiona (best pizza- hard to find…)
Via Ozanam 30,
Telephone 06 534 6702
La Pergola (only 3* Michelin!)
Via Cadlolo 101,
Telephone 06 3509 2154
Sora Margherita
Piazza delle Cinque Scole 30
Telephone 06 687 4216
Tuttifrutti
Via Luca della Robbia 3A
Telephone 06 575 7902
Agata e Romeo (book in advance!)
Via Carlo Alberto 45.
Telephone 06 446 6115

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19 Sep 2009 Dream Ranches

History and legend. Genius and insanity. Love and hate. Elegance and Charm. Glorious past and bright future. Sometimes together in the same house.
That is what is better describing the life in an Argentinean ranch or as the locals call it: estancia

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Each estancia selected in this article has a rich history. Nobles from Europe, great chefs, art collectors, actors are some of the owners of these fine establishments.
Each one unique in style and identity with impeccable service and top cuisine and wine collection. Offer yourself a life time retreat…

For the summarized english version click here: english-flag

Savas Kazantzides
Travel Connoisseur

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26 Jul 2009 12 Months per Year Holidays

Be at the right place , the right moment.
An agenda for the year around best events on the planet.
You, where do you want to be?
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For the summarized english version click here: english-flag

savas kazantzides
travel connoisseur

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05 Mar 2009 The 20 best places in the world to spend your Honeymoon

Honeymoon: For some the ultimate excuse for a dreamy escape, for others the once-in-a-life-time unforgettable experience to treasure for ever. In all cases this special moment in our life deserves the best* the planet can offer…

1. Marrakech, Morocco: Amanjena
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There is a place in paradise where peace holds time, where nature and culture know no seams, where comfort and luxury unite in style and where water reflects the blush of clay. This place is Amanjena, Morocco’s Moorish rose, a resort secluded in a private lush haven near the pulsating Medina of Marrakech. With Atlas Mountains in your sights let Amanjena take your hand and treat you to the wonders of Africa’s sun-kissed land.
Amanjena Resort Marrakech is the first Amanresort on the African continent and one of the finest luxury resorts in Marrakech. Amanjena resort’s 32 pavilions and six, two-storey
maisons are set within an oasis of palms and mature olive trees. Resort Amanjena’s rose-blush walls mirror Marrakech, known in Arabic as Al Medina al-Hamra (the red city). Amanjena resort’s design emulates the old Moorish pisé (packed earth) buildings, as well as the Berber villages that cling to the High Atlas Mountains. Amajena has won many times numerous awards as one of the top resorts in the world.


2. Paradise Island, Bahamas: Cove Atlantis
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Dynamic and stylish. Sophisticated and sensual. Contemporary. Social. Exclusive. Welcome to The Cove Atlantis, the new resort within the world of Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas.
Interior architect Jeffrey Beers created a sensory journey of color, sound, movement and beauty within The Cove. Under the sway of towering palms, step out into the porte-cochere and be immediately captivated by irresistible views of the sea beyond. Move into The Nave, the resort’s temple-like open-air lobby, to stand in awe beneath a dramatic 35-foot teak ceiling showcasing the genuine energy and spirit of The Bahamas.

Inspired by the beauty of its surroundings between two of the world’s most spectacular beaches, The Cove thrives on the rhythm of the day. While its ultra-pool and exclusive beach club create a seamless day to night experience, its breathtaking ocean views and balmy open-air architecture embrace nature’s most compelling elements creating a seductive and indulgent experience.
Enveloped in tropical foliage amidst the resort’s exceptional water garden of lagoons, lilies and African cichlids, meandering walkways of cool stone and dark wood lead to The Cove suites. The journey has begun.


3. Capri, Italy: The Scalinatella
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The Scalinatella, the epitome of excellence, is situated in the most panoramic and peaceful area of the Island of Capri. This romantic hotel offers to its guests an atmoshere of exclusive elegance in a tradition of a grand hotel.
Its impeccable service is guaranteed by the professionalism and with the years of experience of the owners, the Morgano family, who run the hotel, have been able to create a charming Italian style ambience which makes it an experience of a lifetime. At midday, lunch can be enjoyed at the restaurants, by the pool, specialising in caprese cuisine accompanied by an excellent selection of wines. The hotel has been rewarded with a perfect score (100) twice by Conde Naste Traveller readers.

4. Bali, Indonesia: Four Seasons at Sayan
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Beneath a lotus pool floating above treetops and Bali’s sacred Ayung River, discover a few dozen enormous suites and private villas nestled in the jungle. Spa magic with the secrets of the East. Eclectic dining at the breathtaking valley’s edge.
The birds chirping and lizards ambling by really set the stage at this resort “in a valley with the Ayung River flowing through it—everywhere you look you see beauty.” Rooms showcase Balinese design and locally dyed and loomed fabrics. Villas have views of the river below, “great privacy,” and “a stunning plunge pool


5. Phuket, Thailand: Banyan Tree
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Bordered by the golden sands and gentle waves of the Andaman Sea, Thailand, amid a cluster of luxury resorts located in Laguna Phuket, Banyan Tree Phuket Resort & Spa is a luxury resort in Phuket exuding rest and tranquility. A tropical paradise of extraordinary natural beauty, it is no wonder Banyan Tree Phuket Resort & Spa has earned accolades from leading magazines the world over. Exuding seclusion and romance, this Phuket resort boasts only the finest facilities and ambience. A ‘Land of Smiles’ indeed under the sheltering canopy of the Banyan Tree.

6. Koh Samui, Thailand: Karma Suites karma
The resort is nestled in a serene cove and rises gracefully from the blue seas and golden sands of a stunning tropical beach. Four minutes drive to the south one finds the bustle and excitement of the island’s major shopping and entertainment centre – Chaweng Beach; while the boutique international airport is conveniently placed only 15 minutes away.
The only 36 pool residences arranged in 5 terraces, maximising the sea views and creating a village-like atmosphere with quaint buggy paths serving as unobtrusive transport conduits. Elements of Thai and contemporary architecture merge to create the perfect harmony of East meets West. Rich Thai silks and handcrafted artworks adorn the interiors of the residences themselves, The restaurant and the reception and library areas, allowing a balanced and elegant flow from the interior to the exterior.
The concept of ‘choice’ is one of the key philosophies of Karma Resorts and Karma Samui embraces this ideal with bespoke experiences and lifestyle options to satisfy every requirement. Various choices include private in-residence dining with the option of personal chefs and waiters, dining in the restaurant or a romantic beach dinner under the stars. This is just a sample of the array of choices that can be tailored for each guest and every occasion.


7. Dubai, UAE: One & Only
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With only 48 rooms, away from the craze of the creek and the kitsch of the Jumeirah neighbourhood, One&Only Royal Mirage is an oasis in busy Dubai. Between the timeless desert and the cosmopolitan charms of the coast overlooking Palm Island Bay rise majestic palms reflected in clear waters set against a pure blue sky. Recalling the splendour of old Arabia, One&Only Royal Mirage is a wondrous place of intricate arches, domes and towers interspersed with courtyards, lush green lawns and immaculate flower beds… an oasis of sublime comfort where every wish is attended to with delightful surprise.

8. North Atoll, Maldives: Baros Maldives
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Baros has been chosen by Trip Advisor for its 2009 Travelers’ Choice awards in three categories: Best for Romance (Asia), Best Luxury (Asia) and Best Luxury (Worldwide).
The essence of the Maldives. For your vacation in serenity
Be Special , Be destined for Baros. Baros: that elusive holiday spirit.
Euphoric comfort in immaculate elegance. Compelling, delectable, congenial.
Epicurean dining, sublime spa, sensational snorkelling, divine diving
Sandy arbours, evocative moments – The rapture of nature, the kiss of bliss.
Baros, a place to love. Relax: let Baros be your destiny.


9. Antalya, Turkey: Adam & Eve
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The so called “sexiest hotel in the world”, lives up to its expectations with the longest bar in the world and a swimming pool twice the size of an Olympic racing pool. Infinite reflections in stories-high intricate mirror mosaics dazzle the eye. The view stretches across one of the world s largest pools to merge with the sea and disappear into the horizon. A rich visual temptation, a scene that the original parents of humanity could never have imagined… Sleekly elegant restaurants, coupled with a visual celebration of pleasure for the eye and mind. This elite and exclusive destination is truly hedonistic, inviting you to indulge in the pleasures of a 100,000 square meter enclave of secluded forest, overlooking the pure, turquoise Mediterranean, the most pampering and relaxing spa treatments and the finest cuisine from cultures around the globe, not to mention seaside golf.

10. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Sivory Punta Cana
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Looking for new sensations? At Sivory Punta Cana, a paradise of emotions is just waiting to be discovered. An oasis of exclusive pleasures where the daily grind, worries and stress are banished to the horizon. Looking for privacy? Sivory Punta Cana is a whole new concept in relaxation, where your pleasures, comfort and sense of well-being come first and foremost right down to the very last detail.

Can you picture yourself waking up caressed by the Caribbean breeze? The suites are based on a unique architectonic space which creates harmony between the natural surroundings and maximum comfort. Every little detail of the suites has been designed for you to make the most of your privacy. Sivory Punta Cana offers Deluxe Junior Suites, Premium and Luxury Oceanfront Junior Suites, Honeymoon Suites, Ysla Bonita Suites and the Sivory Grand Suite.

11. Hoedspruit, South Africa: Royal Malewane
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Luxury, in its purest form, transcends both the material and the sensual. It is a pannier for the soul, suspended quietly in space and time, high above life’s familiar course. The joys of a bygone era await you at Royal Malewane, situated within the greater Kruger National Park in South Africa ca. 400 kms from Johannesburg. Accommodating a maximum of 20 guests in the utmost colonial splendor, Royal Malewane is an exclusive getaway for those who value privacy, personalized service and the best game viewing Africa has to offer.

Each of the eight freestanding and private suites rests in harmony with its magnificent surroundings with a rich deck wood terrace, thatched gazebo and spillway pool finding easy residence in nature. The colonial style of the lodge is especially visible inside the suites, which feature a palatial air-conditioned bedroom/sitting room with a fireplace, antique furniture and canopied king-size bed as well as an extravagant bathroom with a window-side Victorian bath and indoor and outdoor showers. The suites luxurious interior appointments draw inspiration from the grand colonial ethos; neo-classical refuge in the raw uncompromising bush. There, after a long day of exhilarating game viewing, you can journey into dream’s domain draped in Ralph Lauren linen, as the lion-roars echo through your window of stars. Elevated walkways link the suites to the main camp with the African sky your ceiling.

12. Udaipur (Rajastan), India: Oberoi Udaivilas
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A breathtakingly beautiful Mewar-style residence on the shores of Lake Pichola. The Oberoi Udaivilás is a magnificent blaze of domes and spires set around courtyards, and surrounded by gardens, pools and fountains. The food is superb, the spa and fitness suite state-of-the-art and the location perfect for exploring Udaipur.
The impressive lobby with its vast domed ceiling and fountain is undeniably palatial. In the gardens, a moat-like pool meanders past the terraces of each Lake View room providing semi-private swimming. Suites have private pools, tented dining pavilions and butler service.
Picnic on a private gondola or enjoy traditional dance and music whilst dining alfresco on authentic regional dishes. Relax in the spa against a backdrop of stunning lake views for a holistic treatment and then, venture into Udaipur and soak up the bustling atmosphere of the market.


13. Lijiang, China: Banyan Tree
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Lijiang is considered to be the Venice of the Far East. Explore the architectural intricacies of an ethnic Naxi house at Banyan Tree Lijiang. The mist-covered mountains and the private jet pool make for a study in dreamy contemplation. The pulse radiating from Lijiang is a symphony full of soul, peace and ethnic harmony. Banyan Tree Lijiang’s luxurious villas reflect the rich fabric of this locale through their design and furnishings.

There are 55 rooms and suites at Banyan Tree, Lijiang. Designed to inspire and provide the perfect setting, each villa is nestled in a lush private garden that is visible through sliding glass doors. From the daybed, the looming peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain evoke scenes of epic poetry, while the heated outdoor jet-pool awakens sensory pleasures of a more earthly kind.
The warm hospitality of the Naxi people permeates every occasion where food is celebrated and shared in Lijiang. The excitement of communal feasting is often heightened by raucous folk dancing and ubiquitous plum wine. Guests can enjoy a delightful array of multi-national cuisine at this indoor and outdoor café offering buffet-style dining. Adjourn at the Tea Lounge to learn about the fascinating array of brews; and try some of the finest selections. The bar, a lively nightspot features indoor and outdoor seating, with a band playing everything – from local favorites to evergreen classics.


14. Costa Brava (Barcelona), Spain: Alva Park Resort
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Featuring 88 suites, each with 300-yarn fine Egyptian cotton sheets and a variety of eight pillows per bed. The suites also feature Bang & Olufsen TV, CD, DVD player, radio and portable telephone. All bathrooms have Molton Brown amenities, a hydro massage bath tub, separate shower cabin, flat screen TV, separate WC with telephone and a reading light. Each bathroom has a separate WC cabin with phone and reading lighting. Dressing rooms have automatic trousers, Swiss yarn kimonos, a safe with biometric fingerprint reader, inside light and outlet for hand computers or mobile phone recharging. Entertaining areas feature an oriental art gallery, Mongolian pottery, Han dynasty statues and ancient Chinese coin display, mini-bar, office with a water area and induction plate, a choice of Fortnum & Mason teas, Spiegelau crystal glasses, working table and phone.

15. Puerto Vallarta. Mexico: Casa Velas
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A luxurious, adult only resort in beautiful Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Casa Velas Hotel Boutique is a tranquil, tropical oasis that combines Conde Nast recommended and AAA award-winning service and hospitality with the pleasures of a romantic and intimate atmosphere. Nestled away on the beautiful Marina Vallarta golf course, Casa Velas invites you to enjoy the comforting sounds of nature as you relax in paradise. Experience breathtaking sunsets on Banderas Bay, gorgeous coastal scenery, private beaches, and the spirit of an intimate resort where relaxation is celebrated. Casa Velas is an enchanting place where simple pleasures rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.

16. Nha Trang, Vietnam: Ana Mandara
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Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang reflects the image of an old Vietnamese village, with its warm hospitality, rich culture and unique tastes. The exclusive location of Evason Ana Mandara affords city-centre access to Nha Trang’s only beachfront resort. It is surrounded by private tropical gardens, offering simplicity, serenity and refinement together with spectacular views of Nha Trang Bay.

17. Cafayate, Argentina: Patios de Cafayate
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Enter the enchanting glass lobby doors of Patios de Cafayate Hotel & Spa and experience true elegance. Rich in culture, wine, and tradition, Patios de Cafayate Hotel embraces its spectacular views of the Calchaqui Valley vineyards. Take a stroll through our extensive gardens and admire traditional architecture and antique colonial patios.
Ancient traditions of the Calchaqui Valley promote relaxation, health, and pleasure and continue today as the philosophy of Winespa. Generations of unique treatments unite at Winespa – the most frequent including the carob tree, cactus and molle. Pamper yourself with world-class treatments amongst breathtaking views of the valley. Extend your journey at Restaurant, where the chef prepares recipes of interesting indigenous ingredients passed down from generations.
Antique furniture, artisan carpets, ceramic floors and penny royal baskets decorate each of our twenty-six guest rooms and suites. Our uniquely designed suites accent traditional culture and offer guests the luxury of a double Jacuzzi in the bathroom. Beautiful views of the vineyard and hills or spectacular garden scenes create long-lasting memories of your stay at Patios de Cafayate Hotel & Spa.


18. Little Torch Key (Florida), USA: Little Palm Island
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Little Palm has such disdain for disruptive modern devices that one of the island’s few telephones is stowed in an outhouse. Said WC once served Harry Truman when he retreated here for fishing. Today, vacationing couples find decidedly more posh privies (with indoor and outdoor showers) in the 28 thatch-bungalow suites that grace the five-and-a-half-acre property. Sans boob tubes and alarm clocks, it’s Gilligan’s Island—only with wrought-iron chandeliers, chilled Champagne, and velvet-trimmed throw pillows. Exclusive. For few. Unique.

19. Golden Coast, Australia: Palazzo Versace
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An exquisite, exclusive destination, created for the world to enjoy.
Located on the beautiful Gold Coast, Palazzo Versace accommodation is the perfect way to relax in style.
The Palazzo Versace Hotel is situated in the heart of the Gold Coast, among some of the best attractions and Events in Queensland and Australia.
Palazzo Versace is perfect for meetings, incentives, special events, or a luxurious place to stay with 5 star accommodation and facilities.
Show that someone special in your life just how much you love them by spoiling them with an unforgettable romantic experience signed by Donatella Versace itself!


20. Tokyo, Japan: the Peninsula
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If there is a city where you should spend your honeymoon, then this is Tokyo and its new long anticipated gem: The Peninsula hotel.
Superbly located in the prestigious business district of Marunouchi, opposite the Imperial Palace and Hibiya Park and within minutes’ walk of the shopping capital of Ginza, The Peninsula Tokyo offers commanding city views, luxurious comfort, sophisticated facilities, extraordinary dining options and the legendary Peninsula service. With 314 spacious guestrooms, including 47 suites, five unique restaurants, two ballrooms, six elegantly designed function rooms, a wedding chapel, a Japanese ceremony room, a fitness center and The Peninsula Spa by ESPA, The Peninsula is Tokyo’s new landmark hotel.
Guestrooms are among the largest in Tokyo and have stunning views of the city, Imperial Gardens and Hibiya Park. Modern and contemporary with Japanese-inspired accents, each guestroom and suite blends traditional Peninsula standards of comfort and innovative technology with elements of Japanese heritage and culture.


RUNNER UP’s
Maybe not in the top 20 but very close:

21. Jimbaran (Bali), Indonesia: Beverly Hills
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Discover the hillside beauty of Bali from a new luxury private villa complex nestled into the mountains overlooking Jimbaran Ocean. Cooler climes await visitors to this hidden gem known as The Beverly Hills Bali, a two-hectare property with 25 villas designed to suit the needs of families in need of fun and honeymooners in search of a romantic getaway.
The Beverly Hills Bali has been designed not only for honeymooners but also for those set to take their vows. Wedding facilities are available and ceremonies can be performed in the gazebos overlooking a valley of acacia trees and indigenous flora and fauna, perfect for those wishing to take home precious photographs of that special day.


22. New York, USA: Mandarin Oriental
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We don’t need an excuse to include New York in any list and for whatever reason…So here it is. Our choice: Mandarin Oriental
Gaze over Central Park and the Manhattan skyline from the most breathtaking luxury hotel in New York. This award-winning, 5 Star development high above Columbus Circle offers stunning views from every room. In the beating heart of the city, close to the most prestigious areas, Mandarin Oriental, New York has become a byword for New York style.


*Article copyrighted © by Savas Kazantzides, Athens , February 2009

DISCLAIMER: All these hotels represent the editor’s choice and are selected after personal inspection. By no means they represent any selection or proposal offered by other media nor they are connected to advertising purposes or fees collected.

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