Luxury hotel in DE L’EUROPE Amsterdam

Often referred to as the other “Royal Palace of Amsterdam”, DE L'EUROPE Amsterdam occupies a scenic waterfront location on the Amstel River. The hotel’s original Rondeel building, a city landmark and long considered an oasis of calm in the buzzing city center, was transformed in 2010 with extensive renovations that fuse the hotel’s timeless design with 21st-century comfort. The new Dutch Masters Wing is an all-suite adjacent annex in a historic building, where each room is uniquely appointed and features a painstaking replica of a Dutch Masters painting from the nearby Rijksmuseum. Traditional old-charm co-exists with historic masterpieces in the grand Promenade, where the city’s most authentic Afternoon Tea is served while river views provide a breathtaking backdrop to the two Michelin star Bord’Eau, the Bib Gourmand awarded Hoofdstad Brasserie and the authentic Freddy’Bar (Best Cocktail Bartender of The Netherlands 2014). The newly renovated Skins Institute - DE L'EUROPE, already awarded as a Leading Spa of the World, invites you to experience a tranquil haven designed to lavishly pamper, indulge and nourish your mind, body and spirit. Dedicated to rigorous environmental standards, the hotel is a member of the Green Key Program, an internationally recognized tourism eco-label.

(Original Dutch Masters paintings adorn the walls of this historic hotel located near several of the world’s most heralded museums.)

LUXURY HOTELS IN SPAIN

There’s more to Spain than just sun, azure seas, and ice-cold sangria. Escape to a private retreat in wild Mediterranean woodland. Indulge in a luxury spa treatment in a Moorish style boutique hotel. Discover the tranquil side of the ‘party’ islands as you nibble on authentic Andalucían tapas. Expect the unexpected at every turn – whether it’s the surreal, Art Nouveau creations of Antoni Gaudí or skiing down the Spanish Pyrenees.

Be seduced by the flair, passion and luxury that is Spain: from laid-back beaches to lively cities.

Spain has almost as many different climates as it does cultural traditions. Summer sees the Mediterranean south bask in warm, subtropical weather. In marked contrast, places like Madrid, up in the central plains, get hot in summer, but are cool and calm in winter – ideal for shopping or browsing art galleries. So you can look forward to a relaxing beach holiday or tranquil city break whichever time of year you visit. 

Fiestas are a great chance to see Spain at its most vibrant – these festivities are held to mark events like the Rioja or tomato harvest.  

 

Luxury Hotels in Portugal

Like the drink that bears its name, Portugal is best savoured slowly. In the north you’ll find remote country retreats, the vineyard-dotted slopes of the Douro Valley and the UNESCO world-heritage site of Oporto. As you head south, there are historic cities such as Coimbra and Lisbon to discover, as well as lesser-known gems hidden in the countryside. Finally, you reach the sun-strewn Algarve with its African influences, world-class golf and spas. 

An intoxicating blend of fine dining and sightseeing, historic charm and catwalk cool. 

Portugal is known for its summer sunshine when its beaches and al fresco restaurants are at their most inviting. But away from prime tourist season there’s still plenty to see and do. In the spring, wildflowers and almond blossom burst into life. In the autumn, the cooler weather is ideal for exploring historic sights. And, while the winter can be rainy, it’s a great time to experience the festive celebrations and cosy up with a glass of something special.  

A visit to Portugal wouldn’t be complete without a Pastel de Nata. But, be warned, these little custard tarts can become highly addictive. 

Luxury Hotels in Vietnam

Step out of your luxury hotel and you’re plunged into another world. If cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City seem like nowhere else on earth, so does the landscape. From the spectacular and surreal islands of Halong Bay, to the towns on stilts of the Mekong Delta, you’ll want to explore every part of this fascinating country. With its unique mix of French and Asian cuisine, historic pagodas and temples aplenty, Vietnam is a feast for all the senses. 

Emerald mountains, gorgeous coastline and energetic cities where Chinese and Indian cultures come together. 

Any time of year is good to visit Vietnam. The north in particular has four distinct seasons, while the central region of the country can experience monsoons during September to February. If you’d like to see the country join together for one mass party, try to come during Tet, the celebration of the New Year. Dates change every year, but Tet normally occurs between late January and early March.  

You don’t need to buy bus tickets via travel agents in the cities as they may mark up prices – just head for the bus stations and start exploring the vast landscape.    

LUXURY HOTELS IN LAOS

In this country of infinite smiles, life slows to the soothing pace of the legendary Mekong River. Everything has unspoilt charm – from the mountainous vistas and ancient monasteries, to jungles rustling with elephants and gibbons. Explore pristine French colonial architecture, meander the Mekong while slurping on sundowners, and escape down enchanting streets that simmer with authentic markets, golden temples and French-Asian flavours.

A rich mixture of Indochinese charm and French colonial flair infuses everything – from culture to cuisine.

From March to September the weather is as warm as the people – ideal for wallowing by your private pool in the day or al fresco fine dining at night, freshened by the odd rain shower. From November to February, it rarely rains and nights are cosy, made for red wine and grand colonial fireplaces at your luxury hotel.

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang – a sensory urban maze of temples, restaurants and grand architecture.

LUXURY HOTELS IN BAHAMAS

With 700 islands and an array of stunning beaches, the Bahamas are all about the sea. Whether you want to venture from isle to isle via yacht or kayak, dive into deep blue pools, or perhaps even get up close to a shark, you’ll be close to water all your time here. And if you’d like to truly escape, go beyond Nassau to the ‘Out Islands’.
Swim with dolphins, dance to Calypso rhythms, snorkel in crystal clear waters, or hop from paradise to paradise.
If you’re here in the winter months, the thrilling cacophony known as Junkanoo is a street party unlike any other, held on December 26th and January 1st each year. But there’s plenty to see year round in Bahamas. With temperatures consistently at 80°F all year round, the seas are always warm, and the weather always welcoming.
Although English is the official language of the Bahamas, locals use their own slang on the outlying islands.

Luxury Hotels in French Polynesia

French Polynesia is the perfect ‘get away from it all’ island escape. Here you can swim amongst giant manta rays, or go diving to discover sunken ships. Make sure to see the wildlife inland too, with a private guided trek or horseback ride. And for the ultimate luxury, why not have a private picnic on your own tiny islet in the lagoon. 

Palm-fringed white sands, towering mountain peaks, teeming coral reefs, and 118 islands to explore. 

The weather is idyllic all year round, with the slight chance of a cooling tropical shower in any month. You’ll find the warmest temperatures from May to October, but during other months there will be fewer people and more seclusion. If you travel here in July, you might catch the Helva Nui, an exciting dance festival.
To say ‘I do’ in French Polynesia you need to be resident for 30 days. Many couples marry at home, then travel here for a traditional beach ceremony.