Istanbul is a magical city with buzzing bazaars, impossibly grand mosques and smoky cafs coupled with a modern, ultra-dynamic metropolis where signs of a renewed cultural vibrancy come hand in hand with a physical renaissance.
Kerstin Brand is the Director at Dar Fakir since its re-opening in 2011 after an undergoing extensive refurbishment in 2010. Dar Fakir belongs to a chain of successful enterprises in Marrakechsuch as the infamous Nikki Beach, Le Tanjia restaurant and L’Avenue, all owned by Nordine Fakir. If someone knows how to create a “In” place that people want to go to – here you are at the right address.
Now in its 21st year, the Cond Nast Traveler Spa Poll has revealed its readers’ favourite spas on the US mainland, in Canada, Hawaii, Mexico and Central America, the Atlantic and the Caribbean, and even those at sea. Here are the top 10 for each category they cover – the number indicates the average score that each spa achieved.
If you thought that Rhodes is just about package holidays and big all-inclusive hotels then think again The last few years the island has seen a number of independent properties springing up, all with a small number of suites, individually designed and decorated.Whether you decide to stay within the original walls surrounding the Old Town (the largest inhabited medieval town in Europe) or head towards one of the islands Blue Flag awarded beaches, here is a short selection of the most distinctive boutique hotels in Rhodes:
This Sunday I shall be running in the Edinburgh Marathon to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation. If I’ve helped you in some way with A Luxury Travel Blog, or if you’re just feeling mighty generous, I really would appreciate it if you could sponsor me. I have set up a JustGiving page at http://justgiving.com/paulhjohnson – all donations, however big or small, will be very much appreciated and I’m sure will be put to good use by the charity. Thank you!
If there’s one thing you don’t do in the luxury travel industry, it’s name-drop. So, it comes as something of a surprise to hear that Farhad Vladi, the owner of North Island in the Seychelles (which we suggested was a possible venue for the Royal honeymoon), has openly told the Hamburger Abendblatt that he has rented the island to the Royal family. He has reportedly said, “Prince William and Kate are spending their honeymoon there. But you will understand that we are not saying anything further.” But that’s the beans already spilt, surely! Is this a complete lack of professionalism or a sly trick between the Royals and Vladi to help throw the media off the scent of their true destination, perhaps?
Sometimes a regular city break lacks a little je ne sais quoi? When you are looking to impress or in need of pampering, a luxurious break to Paris could be a revitalising experience.
When it comes to value for your money there is probably nothing greater than a cruise to some exotic destination. Regardless of what ports of call you decide to include in your itinerary the cruise experience is what its all about and with the amount of cheap cruises available today, the world could literally be your oyster. When choosing your itinerary you may wish to consider the amount of time at sea, how long your ship will be in port and which cruise line is best suited for you and your family.
