10 Best Ski Resorts in the World

You can ski nearly anywhere snow and elevation come together, but for truly world-class skiing, you must look toward North America and Europe.  The alpine region of the European continent and the Rocky Mountain range of the United States offer breathtaking skiing along with beautiful landscapes. Two of the ten ski resorts are located in the Eastern half of the North American continent, where the mountains aren’t so high as the Rockies or Alps, but the skiing remains excellent nonetheless.

Chamonix / Mont Blanc, France

Chamonix is routinely included in any list of world-class ski locations. Located at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps, Chamonix’ vertical drops challenge the most experienced skiers. The resort also boasts outstanding après ski nightlife.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Located at the base of the world-famous Matterhorn, Zermatt is famous for both skiing and mountaineering. The pretty village that houses the resort is car-free, which makes sightseeing more pleasurable. The ski resort also features the second biggest vertical descent in the world, which must be accessed by mechanical lift.

Gstaad, Switzerland

This glittering ski resort is frequently populated by celebrities along with hardcore ski and snowboarding aficionados who are attracted to the steep slopes and deep powder. The surrounding village also boasts some of the world’s best luxury accommodations to assure rest and relaxation after a day on the slopes.

Kitzbuhel, Austria

Located in the Tyrol region of Austria, Kitzbuhel is known as the “Pearl of the Alps.” Kitzbuhel has been a ski destination since the 1890s and features more than a hundred miles of ski runs. Once you’ve had your fill of skiing, explore the picturesque village, which is more than seven hundred years old.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

Cortina d’Ampezzo, located in the scenic Dolomites region, hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics. The resort also features some of the longest and most varied ski runs in the world to challenge skiers of every expertise level.

Whistler-Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada

The Whistler-Blackcomb resort in western British Columbia boasts the steepest vertical drop in all of North America. The surrounding resort features gorgeous scenery, the famous laid-back vibe of western Canada and more than a hundred restaurants.

Mont Tremblant, Quebec, Canada

Located on the side of Vermont’s highest mountain, Mount Mansfield, the ski resort at Stowe has been in operation since the 1930s. There are ski and snowboard runs to match the skills of skiers ranging from beginners to experts. Cross country skiers can also enjoy the facilities at Stowe. There are also a number of accommodations, including the famous Stowe Mountain Lodge, located right on the slopes.

Vail, Colorado

No list of the world’s best ski resorts would be complete without including Vail, Colorado, one of the favorite ski destinations of Americans and ski buffs around the world.  This large resort offers an ample variety of runs for skiers and snowboarders alike.  Purchasing a lift ticket for Vail also allows for access to Beaver Creek, A-Basin, Breckenridge, and Keystone – making the purchase an excellent bargain.

Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows, California

Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows, each located in the Lake Tahoe area in California, are actually two ski resorts operated under common management and linked by a shuttle that travels between the two resorts in ten minutes. Among the ambitious plans that the complex has planned for winter 2013 is a ski-in, ski-out  Starbucks coffee outpost.

Have you ever been to one one of these great ski resorts? Please share your experiences.

Top 10 Best Boutique Hotels in the World

Boutique hotels offer something special that can only be achieved in a small, intimate setting where painstaking attention to detail ensures every moment of your stay is a magical experience. Featuring stunning architecture and awe-inspiring locations, boutique hotels ensure an unforgettable stay, and the following 10 hotels are sure to become as much a part of your vacation as the destination itself.

1. Entre Cielos, Mendoza, Argentina

This stunning new spa hotel is located at the foothills of the Andes, and its 16 rooms are surrounded by vineyards that produce the hotel’s own signature wine, Marantel Malbec. Entre Cielos boasts a full service hamam and spa, which offer wine based treatments such as grape seed body exfoliation and a wine bath using grape extracts.

2. Taveuni Palms Resort, Taveuni, Fiji

Honeymooners searching for the ultimate private getaway need to look no further than the Taveuni Palms Resort that has taken luxury accommodation to a new level. Guests can select one of three private villas for their stay, all of which feature an acre of private beach and a personal staff of seven ready to cater to your every need.

3. The Samling Hotel, Windermere, UK

Food lovers heading toward the Lake District National Park should make The Samling Hotel their first port of call. Set in 67 acres of rolling countryside, the hotel’s main attraction is its Michelin Star restaurant that offers guests an unforgettable fine-dining experience. Most of the rooms feature stunning views of the lake, and guests can even choose to hire the entire hotel for a really exclusive experience.

4. Poseidonion Grand Hotel, Spetses, Greece

The picturesque island of Spetses is home to the sprawling Poseidonion Grand Hotel which overlooks the Dapia Port. Guests will be pleasantly surprised by the Freud Oriental restaurant which serves Asian inspired fusion cuisine using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.

5. The Toren, Amsterdam, Netherlands

The city of Amsterdam needs no introduction, and The Toren hotel provides the perfect base for a delightfully decadent weekend. Each of its 38 rooms is individually designed with a few featuring their own private whirlpool Jacuzzi and all are striking examples of the hotels magnificently theatrical design.

6. Layana Resort, Koh Lanta, Thailand

No list would be complete without a visit to Thailand, and the Layana Resort and Spa is a shining example of Thai hospitality. The hotel is available only to travellers aged 18 and over, and is situated on one of Koh Lantas many breath-taking golden beaches where guests can enjoy a variety of water sports.

7. Sanctum Soho, London, UK

Right in the heart of London sits the achingly trendy Sanctum Soho, which features a small yet stunning private cinema, rooftop garden complete with hydro-hot tub, and 30 individually designed rooms including ‘Crash Pads which are tiny compact rooms that offer rest and recuperation to those seeking a short stopover.

8. Lydmar Hotel, Stockholm, Sweden

Those seeking a cultural getaway will not be disappointed by the Lydmar Hotel set in the heart of Stockholm. This simple yet elegant 48 room mansion is within walking distance of The Museum of Modern Art and The National Gallery, and features a classic contemporary design and knowledgeable staff that can inform you of what’s happening in town.

9. Maison 140, Beverly Hills, USA

Deep in the heart of West Hollywood sits an intimate retreat that is reminiscent of a Parisian inn, and its 44 rooms are decorated in vintage French style. Guests can take advantage of gourmet meals prepared on site and delivered directly to the rooms, or head downstairs to the bar to sample one of the signature cocktails such as the Lady Godiva or the French Kiss.

10. Borgo Santo Pietro, Tuscany, Italy

Last but by no means least, is the truly spectacular Borgo Santo Pietro, nestled in the heart of 13 acres of vineyards, orchards, secret gardens, and courtyards filled with antique roses. Guests can wander for hours around the exquisitely beautiful hotel grounds, before retiring to one of the sumptuously decorated suites that transport the visitor to Old-world Tuscany.

Boutique hotels offer much more than just a place to lay your head, their individuality and charm will add a new dimension to your holiday as well as leave you with fond memories of being completely pampered. Whether you are seeking five star service on a tropical island resort, or chic surroundings in the heart of a vibrant city, boutique hotels offer something for everyone in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Top 10 Best Cities And Towns To Celebrate Halloween

Halloween is coming and we all have to choose the city or place to celebrate this awesome holiday! Have you already made this choice? If not, maybe you will be interested in my list of 10 best places to celebrate Halloween! And if you are in love with all these scary things like vampires, ghouls and ghosts you will really like them!

1. London, England

London with pleasure presents you the best Halloween celebration ever. There are a lot of places, where you can shrill, scream and laugh a lot! For example, the London Dungeon: Jack the Ripper, Sweeney Todd and Killer Queen are waiting for you here. If you want, you can also visit the Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, the London Tower and, of course, the Highgate Cemetery! How can Halloween be without any cemetery?

2. Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Oh, there is one scary place, so be ready for the really exciting moments in your life! This is the Bytown Museum, and all visitors can tell you that six ghosts live here. Somebody has heard the children crying, others have seen the ghost of Duncan McNab, and as you may know, he died about 150 years ago. They tell, that he likes to get scared a lot of people, for example, he likes typing his name on the some museum’s computers. Also, somebody has seen how dolls winked and moved!

3. Forks, Washington

The first I want to tell about a lumberjack who wanders around the Forks Dam and about a pregnant woman who can be seen walking lawns late at night. And of course, I don’t want to miss to tell you about the fact that a very popular saga “Twilight” was written about this place. It was a usual peaceful town, where timber industry based in. But this love story between the girl and vampire turned this place upside down. Now, due to the Stephanie Meyer’s vampire saga this place is very popular for the teens and those who really love these books.

4. Tombstone, Arizona

Since there were a lot of gun-fighting skirmishes, it has spawned of appearing a lot of ghosts here. You can talk with a lot of spirits in the special town’s saloon, but don’t forget to visit the reenact places of the infamous gunfights that end in the Boot Hill Cemetery.

5. Long Beach, California

If you really love to wander through very entangled and scary labyrinth, you should definitely go to the Queen Mary Ship. You will be very excited of many surprises that you will meet here and I’m sure you will like some live performances at the Dome of Doom and at very terrifying Purgatory Park.

6. Salem, Massachusetts

Salem is perhaps the spookiest town in the United States. Some situations with “witches” had happened here, so this place has a really dark reputation among others. But if you want to add something special to your holiday and if you want to feel some extra scary moments, suit costumes and come to the Hawthorne Hotel. Usually, they present the Annual Halloween Costume Ball for everybody here.

7. New Orleans, Louisiana

I have never heard about this before, but this city is the main place of voodoo story! If you take some tour through the cemeteries, you will get a lot of incredible feelings! There are cemeteries in a ground crypt-style, so you will see something very interesting. Don’t forget about the voodoo temple! I want to add that the last showplace also has been used till the present days!

8. Orlando, Florida

If you don’t want to be spooked a lot, you can visit Halloween Party “Mickey’s Not So Scary” in the Disney World’s Kingdom. But if you want to be spooked, you can go to the Halloween Horror Nights in the Universal Studios Park. You will see something extra special in their shows. Don’t miss it, you will be glad to be here.

9. Transylvania, Romania

Do you love “Dracula” and “The Land Before the Forest”? Yeah, I really do. So, if you want to plunge in this atmosphere, you must certainly visit Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle. This is the castle, where Dracula had lived and also there are two places: Hunyad Castle and Poenari Castle, which were associated with Vlad the Impaler in the 15th century.

10. New York

If you have a lot of costumes and some of them you have never used before, you can show them all in New York! So, put on one of them and don’t miss one of the most interesting events in this city – the Village Halloween Parade! Also, there is great Nightmare Haunted House, where you will never feel boring!

Where are you going to celebrate Halloween this year? What are you going to be for Halloween? Do you have any other place to add to this list?

10 Best Luxury Hotels in Australia

With its majestic beaches and attraction-filled cities, it’s no wonder that Australia is home to a myriad of luxury hotels and resorts.  Some, however, shine like no other and are truly the stars of the Aussie hotel world.  If you can stay at one of these amazing hotels, you’ll discover that the hotel visit is an attraction all in itself!  From sumptuous rooms to amazing features, these hotels are certainly among the best of Australia’s best.

1. Park Hyatt, Sydney

This breathtaking hotel is situated on one of the most famous harbors on the planet.  With a spectacular view of the Sydney Opera House, the hotel is luxurious as well as comfortable.  Guest rooms and suites are outfitted with lush furnishings and stylish décor.  The dining room has its own luxurious ambience and guests will also enjoy the richly furnished ‘living room’ and bar areas.  The heated rooftop pool is a dramatic feature with its own marvelous views of the surrounding setting. Park Hyatt hotel regularly makes best-of lists and it’s easy to understand why!

2. Qualia Resort, Hamilton Island

This world-class resort hotel is surrounded by the incredible Great Barrier Reef. Views are superb and will captivate even the most discriminating traveler. It features two infinity-edge pools that make guests feel at one with the reef. Indoors, the comfort of the spa and richly furnished rooms will enchant all those lucky enough to book a stay here. The sun-drenched setting and luxurious features of the hotel like its spa and private library make this a dreamy place to hang your hat!

3. Langham Hotel, Melbourne

Situated on the river, this 25-story hotel is luxury itself.  Its English-style décor is studded with chandeliers and sumptuous seating everywhere you turn.  Famous for its Chuan Spa, Langham Hotel exudes grandeur from every nook. Its restaurants are world-class and its pool offers breathtaking views of the surrounding city. Guests will be captivated by the luxurious experience that awaits them at this first class hotel.

4. Richardson Hotel and Spa, Perth

This leading five-star boutique hotel is Perth’s answer to luxury on Australia’s west coast. The hotel is richly furnished and features a gourmet restaurant experience. It’s heated pool and luxurious spa treatments are also part of this hotel’s singular charm. The enchanted poolside garden is just an added touch that sets this hotel apart from other luxury experiences in the region.

5. Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, Blue Mountains, Australia

Encompassed within the breathtaking scenery of the Blue Mountains, this lovely resort and spa is simply enchanting.  Massages on the forested deck, swims in the outrageously fabulous pool, and stays in richly decorated suites make this one of the most attractive hotel experiences on the continent. Moreover, the opulent accommodations are complemented by the stunning scenery that surrounds the resort.

6. Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney

This classic hotel is a regal experience yet marked with genuine Aussie style.  While unabashedly luxurious, the hotel also exudes an aura of relaxation – a rare combination, perhaps, but the décor style and myriad of amenities embody both these marvelous traits!  With views of the legendary opera house, Four Seasons Hotel is one of the city’s most revered accommodations. Its unrivalled level of service, spa, and rich atmosphere make it a standout among Sydney’s wide range of hotels.

7. Reef House Resort and Spa, Cairns

This luxury resort offers a peaceful sanctuary – like experience with a simple yet elegant charm all its own. The pools (there are three), restaurant, and ambience of this hotel are revered throughout the region. Its beaches and tropical gardens attract holiday seekers from all over the world.  Both the bar and restaurant offer unrivalled views of the ocean making this one of the most celebrated resorts in the country.

8. Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island

If you visit Capella Lodge, there’s every chance you won’t want to leave! The gorgeous setting would render any accommodations splendid, but this lodge truly shines with luxurious features. With its views of the mountains and ocean, the rooms are designed with complete comfort in mind. Its restaurant features delectable regional cuisine while its world-class spa provides rejuvenation with its vast menu of treatments.

9. Emporium Hotel, Brisbane

This stunning hotel is a captivating experience for travelers who want to experience a modern take on luxury.  Suites are decadent with rich fabrics and modern design elements. From high teas to luxurious eateries that even include a patisserie,Emporium Hotel is like an enchanted world unto itself!  Utterly beautiful, this is certainly one of the most ornate and stylish hotels in all of Australia!

10. Lake House, Daylesford

This decadent hotel on the shores of Lake Daylesford in the breathtaking spa country of Victoria is revered for its cuisine as well as its setting. Lake House offers luxury in an air of enchantment provided by the surrounding scenery. Its world-class restaurant, spa, and luxurious rooms make this a breathtaking vacation destination.

Each of these hotels offers a luxurious experience in its own singular way. All are quite extraordinary and well worth considering if you happen to be traveling in their respective regions.

Top 10 Best Airports in the World

For travelers weary of long lines at security checkpoints and overpriced fast food, the idea that any airport could be viewed as “best” may seem laughable. However, for travelers lucky enough to have flights that originate or end at any of the airports listed below, the word “best” is totally appropriate. These outstanding airports received the most votes from more than twelve million travelers who participated in a survey administered by Skytrax. Awards for the 2013 World’s Best Airport and nine runners-up were announced at passenger terminal EXPO in Geneva, Switzerland. The winning airports were located largely in Europe and Asia, with only one representative from North America and none from Australia, South America or Africa.  The United States was also notably absent from the list of winners.

1. Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

Singapore Changi Airport claimed top prize for the fourth time since the Skytrax awards were initiated, having last won the title in 2010. In addition to winning the top overall award, Singapore Changi Airport, which served more than fifty million passengers in 2012, was named Best Airport in Asia and Best Airport for Leisure Amenities.

2. Incheon International Airport, Seoul, South Korea

Last year’s winner Incheon International Airport slipped to the second place. Still, the main airport serving the South Korean capital is no slouch. In addition to its overall second place finish Incheon received the Best Airport Staff Service – Asia and Best International Transfer Airport awards for 2013.

3. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, The Netherlands

For the first time since the Skytrax awards were issued, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands broke into the top three finishers, largely due to its highly-regarded and efficient self-service transfer process. Schiphol also earned top honors for Best Airport in Europe and Best Airport in Western Europe.

4. Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong, China

A third-place finisher for 2012, Hong Kong International Airport slipped to fourth place in the overall voting for the 2013 World’s Best Airport. Nonetheless, Hong Kong International Airport remained a favorite among the voters. In addition to its overall fourth place finish, Hong Kong International airport ranked in the top five among all airports in six different categories.

5. Beijing Capital International Airport, China

Beijing Capital International Airport only began operations in 2008 and has added passenger traffic every year. Nonetheless, the airport maintained its fifth place overall position from 2012 to 2013, and was also named the best airport in China.

6. Munich Airport, Germany

For travelers who hate the dried out microwave fare many airports offer, Munich Airport in Germany features food offerings that are a treat to the palate. In addition to scoring sixth in overall voting for 2013, Munich Airport also earned the award for Best Airport in Central Europe and Best Airport Dining Experience.

7. Zurich Airport, Switzerland

If you have ever experienced lost luggage, you will appreciate the fact that Zurich Airport in Switzerland is a perennial winner in the category of Best Airport Baggage Delivery, in addition to scoring seventh place in overall voting in 2013. Zurich Airport also earned the 2013 award for Best Airport Staff Service – Europe.

8. Vancouver International Airport, British Columbia, Canada

Finishing in eighth place overall in the 2013 voting, Vancouver International Airport is the only North American representative on the list of World’s Best Airports. Moving up from its overall ninth place finish in 2012, Vancouver International Airport retained the award for Best Airport in North America.

9. Tokyo International Airport (Haneda), Japan

A new entry in the top ten list of World’s Best Airports, Tokyo International Airportmoved up five places from its 2012 position.  Haneda took first place in the category of Best Domestic Airport, a new category for 2012, and also snagged the award for Best Airport Terminal Cleanliness.

10. London Heathrow Airport, England (Great Britain)

Rounding the top ten is London Heathrow Airport, earning its place on the list largely due to its highly-regarded Terminal 5, which opened in 2008. T5, as it is commonly known, also earned the award for Best Airport Terminal for the third year in a row. The entire airport has undergone an overhaul, with its efforts rewarded by Heathrow finally earning 4-Star Airport status in 2012.

What do you think of this list? Do you agree with it? Please share your thoughts in the comments options.

Source: Amerikanki.com

10 Best Airport Hotels in the World

Finding out your flight has been delayed after you arrive at the airport can be a stressful situation, unless it means you get the chance to stay at one of the top airport hotels in the world. All of the following hotels are winners of the Skytrax Best Hotel Airport Award, and all offer a first-class service in sumptuous surroundings that will make you wish your flight never leaves the tarmac.

1. Regal Airport Hotel, Hong Kong, China

Those lucky enough to stay at the presidential suite of this magnificent hotel are in for a truly spectacular experience. Spread over 2 floors and spanning 280sqm, the suite offers a private sauna and spacious marble bathroom. The business centre of this hotel is one of the best in the world offering 30 different function rooms including a grand ballroom.

2. Langham Place, Beijing, China

Located just minutes from Beijing Capitol Airport, this stylish hotel offers all the amenities you could possible want from a luxury hotel and is ideally situated for all the major tourist attractions. Guests can take advantage of the 24-hour fitness centre, dine in one of 3 gourmet restaurants or hang out in the VIP lounge.

3. Oryx Rotana, Doha, Qatar

Qatar’s leading business hotel makes entertainment a priority, and guests can start the evening with wine tasting in the cellar followed by an elegant al fresco dinner at Al Nafourah Garden. Finish your night in style with drinks and dancing in the Jazz club before retiring to one of the hotel’s 110 sqm suites.

4. Kempinski Hotel, Munich, Germany

Situated right next to Munich airport, this stunning hotel is housed in a glass atrium and offers bright and spacious suites and conference rooms. The hotel offers a 24-hour private aviation catering service for high-rollers, and the nearby Canis resort provides luxury accommodation for accompanying pets.

5. Crowne Plaza, Changi, Singapore

Featuring stunning architecture and award winning restaurants serving the finest Cantonese cuisine, this hotel provides a welcome escape from the pressures of modern life. A climate-controlled bridge links the Crowne Plaza to Changi airport, and travellers can relax by a landscaped pool only minutes after stepping off the plane.

6. Sofitel, London, England

Sofitel is a luxury French hotel that is directly linked to terminal 5 of London’s Heathrow airport. Comprising 605 rooms including 52 suites, a gourmet restaurant, an award winning spa, fitness centre, and vitality pool, the hotel offers something for each and every traveller passing through the world’s busiest airport.

7. Hilton, Beijing, China

The Hilton brand is synonymous with style and luxury, and the Hilton Beijing Capital Airport is no exception. Guests need never leave the hotel grounds as they are provided with a fully equipped health centre and spa, indoor swimming pool, 4 different restaurants with 32 private dining rooms, and fully equipped business centre.

8. Hyatt Regency, Incheon, South Korea

The Hyatt Regency seeks to provide an ‘office away from office’ feeling and business travellers will feel right at home in the business centre, which offers high-speed internet, printing, scanning, copying and a secretarial service. Once the work is complete it’s time to play, and guests can take their pick from the casino, spa, fitness centre or indoor pool.

9. Grand Hyatt, Dallas/Fort Worth, USA

No one does southern hospitality quite like Texas, and the staff at Grand Hyatt are waiting to welcome you to their award-winning hotel. Soundproofed rooms guarantee a peaceful nights slumber and will ensure you feel energised enough for a few rounds at the adjacent Bear Creek Golf Club.

10. Novotel, Bangkok, Thailand

This hotel offers a ’24-hour flexi’ policy that allows guests to check-in at any time they like and then leave exactly 24 hours later. The business centre offers a wide range of facilities for business professionals including a theatre that seats up to 1000 people. Novotel is also an extremely child-friendly hotel and offers a special welcome and personalised gift for all young guests.

Airport hotels are much more than just a place to rest your head. Many offer all the services and amenities of a luxury five-star hotel, and most are located just a few steps from the airport arrivals lounge meaning you never have to worry about finding your hotel again. Have you ever stayed at one of these hotels?

Source: Amerikanki.com