Luxury Hotels in Belgium

It may be the political heart of Europe, but Belgium still knows how to have a good time. You’ll find historic cities that are brimming with culture and nightlife, grand palaces and stylish boutiques, potent Trappist beers and world-famous fine dining. But, if you prefer a slower pace, there are dreamy canals, exclusive beach resorts and peaceful chateaux and gardens to explore. 

With its chocolate and moules-frites, carnivals and cartoon stars, Belgium serves up a surreal blend of indulgence and opulence.

Belgium is a year-round destination with mild summers and cosy winters. Summer is a great time to wander the historic cities on foot, tour the countryside by bike and dine (or drink) al fresco in a canal-side bar. In the autumn and winter, the ancient cobbled alleyways take on a magical feel and many cities host twinkling festive markets.

Belgium is known as the ‘Bordeaux of Beer’ and you could happily while away a weekend sampling some of the 1000+ brews on offer.

LUXURY HOTELS IN TANZANIA

Wilderness meets luxury in exotic Tanzania. Take to the skies in a private hot air balloon for the ultimate view of lions and cheetahs on the hunt. Relax in a tented camp and look out for the legendary lovebird. Or escape to a suite overlooking azure waters in one of Zanzibar’s luxury beach resorts. For a taste of the old Tanzania, take to Stone Town’s ancient streets and explore Sultan’s palaces and colourful spice stalls.

From the Serengeti to the ‘Spice Island’, Tanzania is the definitive explorer’s paradise. 

With a year-round tropical climate, Tanzania is a country for all seasons. There’s excellent game viewing in most months – but, if you want to watch the migrating wildebeest head to the Serengeti between November and July. The rainy seasons are generally March to May and November when the landscape turns emerald green. In contrast, December to March are the warmest months and the landscape’s at its most arid.

If you can tear yourself away from Zanzibar’s pristine white beaches, take in the aromas of cinnamon, cloves and vanilla on a plantation spice tour

LUXURY HOTELS IN NICARAGUA

Like the volcanoes that dot the horizon, Nicaragua is a sleeping giant – a potent blend of elegant colonial architecture and pristine rainforest, just waiting to be discovered. You could escape to a beach resort, embark on a jungle adventure, play golf as parakeets flit by, or relax in a spa and savour the finer things in life. Welcome to Central America’s best kept secret.

Off-the-beaten track but on every traveller’s wish list, Nicaragua is a mix of rugged beauty and boutique luxury.

Like much of Central America, Nicaragua is defined by two seasons. The summer (December to April) is when the country is at its warmest and driest. The winter (May to November) is known as the ‘rainy season’, but along the coast this is often just a short, sharp downpour in the afternoon. It’s also one of the quietest times to visit and – if you’re lucky – you could have the beach all to yourself. 

The coast of Nicaragua is a breeding ground for humpback whales and one of the best places to see these gentle giants at play.