What do you look for in a luxury hotel? Unrivalled facilities? First class service? Sumptuous interior? All of which is housed in a historic grand building surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens? You’ve just described the five star Castillo Hotel Son Vida.

This impressive 13^th century castle oozes a sophisticated style and instantly makes you feel like you’ve arrived home as royalty. The Castillo Hotel Son Vida has been pleasing guests such as Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly for over half a century; in that time they’ve continued to develop a reputation for exceptional hospitality and catering to your every need.

Perched on the Son Vida Hills with outstanding views overlooking the bay of Palma and Palma city, it’s a slice of tranquil heaven whilst remaining only a short fifteen minute drive from the city centre and beaches. Its secluded location makes it perfect to relax get away from the world. From Palma, you’ll see the Castillo Hotel Son Vida and its turreted facade and tower proudly sitting high in the sky.

Inside the gorgeous property you’ll find exquisite architecture, exemplified by white pillars and a coloured glass dome which continues to bathe the reception hall in a warm glow as the sun shines throughout the day. Guests can also marvel at the range of art and treasures on display that wouldn’t look out of place in the Prado museum. One of the highlights and main features of the resort is the Balcony of Mallorca, a large area in which to enjoy the sun and jaw-dropping views – creating the most romantic setting for wedding ceremonies.

Warm and luxurious colours greet you as you enter your spacious room, complete with doors leading to a balcony so you can enjoy the views from your bed. Guests can indulge themselves and experience fine dining at the Bodega style gourmet restaurant Es Castell or sample local cuisine in the tapas restaurant which serves over 400 varieties of wine. You can also enjoy a refreshing drink or wind down the evenings at the poolside bar.

Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to exercise with two outdoor swimming pools, a children’s pool, an indoor heated pool, a gym and four tennis courts. Those who prefer to relax in their spare time are equally catered for with a beauty centre and health club complete with sauna and steam bath – an oasis for making you feel good inside and out. Younger guests can have a great time in the hotel’s kids club. The hotel also benefits from being in close vicinity to the Arabella Championship golf courses – the largest golf complex in Spain – which is as beautiful as the Castillo Hotel Son Vida.

Article courtesy of Sovereign Majorca

Take time out from the hustle and bustle with a quiet weekend in the country. Picturesque views, stunning scenery and a slower pace of life make a trip to the country the perfect way to unwind.

Filled with rolling green hills, quaint idyllic villages and cosy pubs, there is nothing like a trip to the Cotswolds to put a spring back in your step.

Ellenborough Park is the perfect location for a relaxing stay away; situated on the Cheltenham Racecourse estate in fine parkland, Ellenborough Park is the ideal base from which to explore the stunning Cotswold countryside. The luxury Cotswold hotel is proud to boast 60 luxurious individually designed rooms by Nina Campbell, an Indian inspired spa and the oak panelled Beaufort Dining Room. Service is unparalleled and a stay here is the perfect way to unwind and rest your weary head.

Get some fresh air and explore the countryside with a long wander, taking in everything this beautiful area has to offer. The Cotswolds has no shortage of country walks; take a look at National Trail for the renowned Cotswold Way. This walk features many famous associations and stretches across the Cotswold landscape including the birth place of writer Laurie Lee and other famous associations. Don’t forget to take your wellies though, as it tends to get muddy.

Golf in the Cotswolds is a serious matter – take your pick from an array of different courses and clubs if taking a swing is your thing. Try the Cotswolds Hill Golf Course, opened in 1976 this course has matured with age and is now recognised as one of the most prestigious courses in the area, catering for all abilities.  Alternatively, try Minchinhampton Golf Club. This course sprawls across scenic Minchinhampton common and the surrounding areas offering unparalleled views of the local five valleys.

Try something new at the Ian Coley school of shooting. Renowned for producing Olympic gold medallists Richard Faulds and Peter Wilson, this school caters for all levels of experience including juniors. Established in 1897, it is one of the top 10 shooting schools in England, and is recognised as the best destination to learn this traditional and exciting countryside sport.

Take time out to enjoy an old English tradition; Afternoon Tea at Ellenborough Park in Cheltenham is a wonderfully decadent experience. Cosy up during the winter months by the roaring log fire in The Great Hall, or enjoy the country setting and take tea on the sunny terrace. Served on silver cake stands and bespoke fine china, everything about this experience is wonderfully British. The menu includes delicate sandwiches, delicious homemade cakes and a selection of mouth-watering baked scones with finest preserves from Wales with rich Cornish clotted cream.

After a weekend in the beautiful British countryside, you will feel ready to get back to the grind of the city!

Dubai is all about high-octane glamour and that translates into the food as well. Celebrity-endorsed and run restaurants are popping up all over the city, although there are many other fantastic places to eat. You’ll be truly spoiled for choice in this modern city, so the decision-making may have to come not to the quality of the food, but the views from the windows. Here are our top five restaurants in Dubai.

Bateaux Dubai

Dine aboard a boat for a maritime experience in Dubai! Situated opposite the British Embassy, this fantastic venue has a red carpet entrance and you’ll certainly feel like royalty when you step aboard. And the boat isn’t moored – it sails as you dine so you get to enjoy beautiful views of Dubai Creek. Book a window seat if you can. Diners receive complimentary fruit juice and canapés upon arrival and alcohol is served once the boat has started moving. While the food is a buffet, it’s of an incredibly high standard and the live music makes this a very special few hours.

Latitude

Based at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, this airy restaurant is high up on Dubai culinary hotlist. Outdoors, there’s a lovely wooden terrace and indoors, huge windows make you feel as though you’re outside but with the benefit of air-conditioning! This place is truly international and perfect if you’re not sure exactly what you’re after for dinner. Its chefs serve up South East Asian, Chinese, Japanese, Indian and European flavours from live cooking stations dotted around the restaurant.

The Rib Room

If it’s steak you’re after, look no further than the Rib Room in the Emirates Towers. Popular with meat-craving business people and families alike, this is a top spot for dining in Dubai. The design if very funky and there’s always a good atmosphere to go with the great food. While steak and meat is obviously the focus here, there are other options available.

Reflets by Pierre Gagnaire

If you want to splash out on a special meal, this very modern restaurant might be the place to go. Located in Dubai Festival City, there is a classically French atmosphere and a constantly changing menu. Try the taster menu – six courses plus desert and with a few extras thrown in. The combinations here are unique and interesting, and you’ll taste high quality ingredients presented with flair and style.

Nina Indian Restaurant

If you’ve got a craving for curry whilst in Dubai, you’ll find unbeatable versions of the hot stuff at Nina. The décor is rich and opulent and very Indian. Many of the tables are only candlelit, creating a lovely atmosphere. Located inside the Royal Mirage Hotel, it’s popular with guests and non-guests alike. The butter chicken comes highly recommended, as do many of the tempting starters. Try the breads and pickles, and the deep fried soft shell crab, served with a fresh mango salad and spicy seafood broth.

Though South Africa is well known for being a “Westernized” country in Africa, it still does have a bit of a wild side.  If you’re looking for a great safari in South Africa, then start your holiday at the world renowned Kruger National Park.

Why Kruger National Park?

The Kruger National Park, established in 1898, is not only the continent’s oldest wildlife park, but it also still to this day offers the best safari experience in all of Africa.  The park features the “Big Five” animals that the majority of tourists want to see, which are:

• Lions
• Leopards
• Rhinos
• Elephants
• Cape Buffalo

But that’s not all.  You can also expect to see hippos.  You can expect to see crocodiles.  If you stay in one of the many lodges in the park you may even see a giraffe peaking at you through you bathroom window.  If you aren’t keen on staying in a lodge, there are still a number of other cottages, chalets, and campsites that you can stay in.

Already been to the famous Kruger National Park?  Then you may want to consider traveling to Madikwe Safari. The Safaris are incredibly, but they don’t come cheap – as you might expect – but you can top up your spending money at any of the South African Travelex’s. You can even order your currency online and just pick it up from your nearest branch.

Why Madikwe Safari?

This safari is one of the largest yet least known reserves in South Africa, giving visitors a less touristy and more genuine experience than what Kruger may be able to offer.  The Madikwe safari also offers great opportunities for travelers to see the “Big Five” animals, as well as many other animals including the rarely seen endangered African wild dog.

As it’s set up in a malaria-free safari region, families can safely travel to this area with their young ones.  It’s also just an hour and a half drive from Sun City, a great spot for all tourists to unwind after a long, exciting day.

Plan on hitting the East Coast of South Africa?  Then you may want to try out the KwaZulu-Natal Safari Instead.

Why The KwaZulu-Natal Safari?

If you’re into rhinos, big cats and love bird watching, then the KwaZulu-Natal Safari is the place to go. This safari offers a wide variety of different environments, from woodlands to wetlands to coastal forests and palm savannahs.  The nice part about this safari is that it also spans along the gorgeous Eastern seaboard of South Africa, so visitors can also treat themselves to a relaxing time on the beach, or go scuba diving along the coral reefs.  Before you embark on you safari, take the time to visit a currency exchange location so that you can be sure that you can participate in many of these exciting and sometimes seasonal activities offered on all of the safari tours.

 

South America is such a vast continent that to see even a relatively small area, many visitors spend a long time travelling. This is why cruise are so fantastic, and with so many of the countries treasures located around the coastlines and on offshore islands, a cruise is a convenient, luxurious and exciting way to discover South America and The Galapagos Islands.

What you’ll see in a 5 night cruise

For many, around 5 nights offers plenty of time to see the best of the islands. Motor yachts such as the M/Y Galapagos Odyssey travel a set itinerary for this length of time, carrying up to 16 passengers to the highlights of the Galapagos. There are ten comfortable cabins, a sun deck with loungers and a Jacuzzi, lounge, dining area, bar, terrace and library.

Excursions take you to explore both the land and marine flora and fauna of the archipelago. Some tours will be treks by foot, kayak, and equipment is provided for snorkelling and scuba diving. Volcano hikes, island trails, swimming with sea lions as well as following giant tortoises through the forest are some of the highlights.

You could also travel aboard a sailing ship such as the classic S/S Mary Anne – a traditional 3 mast yacht with billowing white sails and a wooden deck. The 12 cabins are gorgeous and beautifully appointed and an on-board naturalist will really help you to understand the complex ecology of these amazing islands.

A 5 night cruise on the S/S Mary Anne will take you to see marine iguanas at Santa Fe, sea lions in Española, Blue-footed and Nazca Boobies at Punta Suárez, the giant tortoises on Santa Cruz, Post Office Bay and the beaches of Punta Cormorant, amongst other excursions. This ship also takes 8 and 15 day tours of the archipelago, heading to some of the more remote islands.

When to go

Cruises are great holidays as they can be taken all year round. However, weather varies and this will change your experience on what you will see on your trip. Most cruises stop running from September until the end of November.

Overall, the best time to visit the Galapagos is during the British winter and spring, from December until May. You’re likely to be most comfortable at this time, while the seas are at their calmest and the weather is at its warmest. However, June, July and August reveal more wildlife, although it’s cooler, windier and sometimes rainy.

The Caribbean has an enduring charm that’s unlikely to fade as long as travellers want soft white sands, calm emerald seas, consistently hot sunshine and some of the most fantastic food and drink on the planet. If it’s the ultimate in luxury you’re looking for, we’d suggest two islands as ideal retreats – St Barths and Antigua. Let’s find out a bit more about these two.

 

Where can you find authentic African cuisine? That is the challenge faced by many travellers to the African continent. Why? Just think of the scale of the “location”…it is a massive continent with several different time and climate zones, all kinds of cultures, and a huge amount of modern influence. For instance, you might go to one of the smaller countries of Africa, such as Morocco, and find half a dozen European cuisines influencing the traditional foods of the native populations.

We have narrowed down a huge list of the three best places for authentic food in Africa (In a Luxury setting may we add!),

If you are looking for truly authentic cuisine, you can turn to Le Quatrier Francais in Western Cape, South Africa. It is a restaurant that is literally dripping with awards and industry recognition. This is because it is in the home of South Africa’s Winelands area, and that allows it to have access to the best produce, wines, and even chocolates! It highlights all of the best of South African cuisine’s flavours, and the chef’s goal is to use only African produce. Currently, the restaurant feeds its many visitors with around 80% native grown and made foods.

If you are looking for a similar experience in Kenya, you have to visit the popular city of Mombasa. There you can take your pick from two of the most frequently recommended spots for authentic cuisine. Both have upscale settings and top of the line service, but one is in the heart of the town while the other sits prettily atop the Old Harbour district.

The first is Safari Inn Bar and Restaurant. It is a popular hang out for locals and for those who want authentic Kenyan cooking.  Less luxurious than most of its counterparts the Safari Inn offers live music and dance, big screen TV’s for sports fans.  The restaurants staple is mainly meat and fish, however there is a ‘chefs special’ each evening which comes highly recommended!

The second is Tamarind Mombasa, and while it too specializes in Kenyan food with flavours spanning France, Asia and of course Africa.  The Tamarind however is especially famed for its freshly caught seafood dishes which have eared the restaurant international acclaim and rave reviews from critics representing ‘Gourmet’ and The London Times.  If you visit be sure to sample the Lobster Shela – a locally sourced lobster dish served with a tomato and coconut cream sauce.

As a bonus, another South African restaurant recently hit the “top” of many lists. This is The Greenhouse in the Constantia area of Cape Town. This is another Winelands location, and it specializes in African cuisine and wines, and is considered one of the best ‘fine dining’ locations in the country.  With emphasis placed on locally sourced ingredients and flavours paired with wines from the surrounding vineyards.

India is fast growing as a unique travel destination for luxury travellers. There are many tours that accommodate travellers seeking to travel in various parts of India but would rather do so with all the levels of comfort available. All the major cities provide this option and many restaurants cater to luxury travellers needs. This makes India a great option for tourists who want to travel in style, without having to break the bank to do so as India is so affordable.

Luxury tours

The comfort level and luxury of the traveller is extremely important in these tours. So, luxury tours offer private chauffeur driven cars for each city. The provided guides are exclusive, experienced and licensed, offering tours that are private and customized to the specifications and preferences of the visitors. This is particularly useful for visitors who want a trip that will highlight their interests. For example, tourists may want a trip with wildlife or do something more spiritual. A guest who chooses these tours is guaranteed to have a higher quality of service in all spheres of travel whether its accommodation, transportation or informative guides.

You can experience lavish comfort on a trip to Rajasthan or ‘the land of the kings.’ This is a culturally prosperous area with links to the ancient way of life. Its blend of natural beauty and history is what draws thousands of tourists to the area every year. Undoubtedly, the area draws many people because of the Taj Mahal. Places around this area exhibit a high standard of services and provide a great experience for visitors who want to see the real India but also experience some luxury, staying in stunning hotels like the Neemrana fort, a converted fort which is now one of India’s most unique hotels.

Luxury Trains

Travelling through India in a luxury train has become increasingly popular with visitors. This uniquely Indian way of exploring the country allows you the opportunity of seeing many of he countries greatest attractions. The trains have all the indulgences you can imagine; this includes customized cutlery, glamorous decor, romance and great tasting food. The packages include meals, tours and entrance fees to remarkable attractions. Leaving you with the easy task of sitting back and enjoying the once in a lifetime experience.

Enjoy some decadence in Goa

For palms trees, beaches and extravagance then head off to Goa. With its pristine coastlines, deserted beaches and light festivals, you are bound to have an incredible time. Moreover, there are many places to explore whilst here. For adventurous people you can try your hand at cave exploration, water sports and other adrenalin pumping activities. At night time the place comes alive with great music, partying, shopping and good food.

For more leisure, there is ample opportunity to soak up the sun at various resorts or more private luxury lodges. Go for walks among the traditional fishing villages and experience the best of both worlds. Whatever your interests are, you are bound to find a luxurious option for your vacation.

There are many ways you can enjoy India in luxury. This includes accommodation, tours and of course world famous eateries. With so many places to see and experience it should be certainly be on your list of luxury places to see in the world.

This is a guest post from John at Luxuryhoneymoondestinations.co.uk

Take a step back in history to the Royal Livingston hotel on the mighty Zambezi River next to Victoria Falls. This 173 room recreation of colonial spender is designed to take you back to a time when people dressed for dinner, and the lady’s took afternoon tea. Today you can enjoy the luxury while sitting on your veranda watching a rainbow form in the mist, as over a 150 million gallons of water a minute  tumble more than 300 feet into the gorge below.

The Livingston Royal Colonial has everything the discerning travel would come to expect from a five star resort from your own personal butler to one of the best dining experiences in Africa while you watch zebras stroll around the hotels lawns. Visit the hotels bar with its rich woodwork reminiscent of the finest gentleman’s clubs on the Pall Mall in London before retiring to bed to dream about the adventures that lie ahead tomorrow.

History of Victoria Falls

While working as a missionary in Africa Dr. David Livingston heard about the Mosi oa Tunya, “The smoke that thunders “and set off on a canoe expedition in 1855 down the Zambezi River to find out for himself what the natives were talking about. As they got closer to the falls Livingston could hear the mighty roar, and see the columns of spray rising up into the air. The natives took him to an island that was in the middle of the falls where he said later when asked: “The whole scene was extremely beautiful; the banks and islands dotted over the river are adorned with sylvan vegetation of great variety of colour and form…no one can imagine the beauty of the view from anything witnessed in England. “It has never been seen before by European eyes, but scenes so wonderful must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight”. On being the first European to ever see what is now called one of the Seven Wonders of the World Livingston named the falls Victoria in honour of the queen.

What to see and do

For the thrill seekers there is plenty to do at the falls that keep the adrenalin flowing, such as taking a boat ride from Livingstone Island, and then swimming to “The Devils Pool” where you can gaze over the falls without the water carrying you over.

Kayak the white-water rapids of the Zambezi, or take an inflatable raft ride down the mighty river.

Bungee jump over 300 feet from the Victoria Falls Bridge, or fly in a micro-light to see the falls up close. You can even ride on top of an African elephant through the bush.

If all this sounds like too much fun a dinner cruise above the falls on the African Queen may be more the pace you are looking for. One thing is for certain though there are plenty of things to keep you occupied while staying at one of Africa’s most exclusive hotels.

Getting to Zambia

Most tourists arrive in Livingstone after flying in from either Cape Town or Johannesburg in South Africa, and almost everyone requires a visa with a single entry visa costing $50.

Spain is a diverse country making it the choice destination of many holidaymakers. This beautiful place is famous for its great beaches, historical attractions, rich culture, great food and vibrant nightlife. There are many fun activities in store for all ages such as sightseeing, cruising, hiking and swimming.

Aside from outdoor activities, tourists can also enjoy various indoor games like poker. There are many casinos in Spain that host poker tournaments. If the weather is too cold or it’s raining outside, then guests can comfortably play poker right in their hotel room. Since most hotels nowadays are equipped with wi-fi, it is easier to connect to online poker sites such as partypoker. There are various poker games and tournaments available at this gaming site, which makes it more exciting. Beginners can also take advantage of the tutorials at PartyPoker. They also have the option to use play money instead of real money while learning how to play. Once they are prepared to compete and win big cash, they can join in any of the major tournaments at this poker site.

If the weather permits the tourists to go out of their hotel, then they can visit some of the casinos and poker clubs in Spain. Those who are searching for the ultimate gambling experience in Spain can stay at the country’s best casino hotels. Here’s our top list:

Ibiza Gran Hotel
Jetsetters from all over the world travel to Ibiza not only to party, but also to play poker. The Ibiza Gran Hotel boasts the Casino de Ibiza, which is a stylish gambling venue that hosts Texas Hold’em tournaments and other thrilling casino games. Aside from the casino, this luxury hotel also has a world-class spa, pools, art gallery and fine restaurants. Enjoy great views of the Mediterranean Sea and Old Town from this upscale hotel casino.

 

Lopesan Costa Meloneras
This 4-star resort is located just a few minutes away from the Nature Reserve of Dunas de Maspalomas. It offers various leisure facilities including a casino that features poker games. Besides that, it also has a spa, wellness center, fitness center and other sports amenities.

 

Hotel Casino Torrequebrada
This 5-star casino hotel is situated between Benalmadena and Fuengirola. Casino lovers would enjoy the various games available at the Hotel Casino Torrequebrada including Stud poker, blackjack, roulette and slots. Aside from those, guests can also enjoy playing video poker.

H Top Gran Casino Royal
This is one of the most popular casino hotels in Spain because the rates are cheaper than luxury hotels. It is conveniently located in the heart of Lloret de Mar and offers a friendly environment. Guests can enjoy playing poker and other casino games at H Top Gran Casino Royal. Those who are looking for some entertainment can watch the live music and flamenco shows.