Built out of salt blocks, the amazing Palacio de Sal (Palace of Salt to us English folks) is located at the edge of the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat. The Salar de Uyuni has long been a popular tourist attraction for travelers around the world. Due to the scarcity of construction materials in the area the hotel was created out of the one material that is plentiful in area. The first hotel was built between 1993 and 1995 and soon became a popular tourist destination featuring 12 double rooms, a common bath and no shower. Due to its original location in the center of a desert there were various sanitary and environmental issues that cause the hotel to be dismantled in 2002.

In 2007 a new hotel was created at a new location, some 25km from the town of Uyuni and it was given the name Palacio de Sal. Located about 220 miles south of Bolivia’s capital La Paz, the hotel was built using about 1 million 14 inch salt blocks which were used for the floor, walls, ceiling, beds, tables, chairs, sculptures and more. But don’t try to lick the walls; the hotel has a rule prohibiting it since licks can degrade the blocks and hence degrade the hotel. The hotel offers a variety of wonderful amenities to pamper its visitors including a dry sauna, steam room, saltwater pool and whirlpool baths. Enjoy a relaxing massage after your sauna or steam room sessions at the Palacio de Sal’s marvelous spa.

The hotel also features a restaurant that serves elaborated dishes based on salt, llama meat and lamb from the local region. If you’re unsure of what to order be sure to try the hotel’s specialty, Pollo a la Sal (Chicken a la Salt) for a truly tasty and delectable meal. If you’re more in the mood for livations, the hotel offers a Bar/Pub with a great game room to play billiards, chess and even an auditorium that holds up to forty guests. The Palacio de Sal is truly a unique and amazing experience giving you a distinctive environment to unwind in.

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A vacation to the sapphire blue waters of the Mediterranean is often out of reach for the majority of wannabe travelers. Luckily the good ol’ US of A offers a getaway retreat in beautiful southern California that will instantly bring your mind to the gorgeous stretches of the classic European holiday destination. Part of the region known as America’s Riviera, the Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Coast, California is designed to reflect the grand Renaissance style Mediterranean sea side towns and delivers the same relaxed air with a hefty dose of luxury. With your choice of over 200 Bungalow suites and 128 villas, a world class golf course, and a westerly ocean view that is simply unrivaled; Pelican Hill will pamper and indulge your every need.

The crown jewel of Pelican Hill is their clubhouse pool modeled after Rome’s famous Coliseum. From the edge of the pool which is lined with 1.1 million hand-cut blue glass tiles you can take in the entirety of Newport Harbor. And at 136 feet across this saltwater oasis is the largest perfectly circular pool in the world. Surrounded by opulent cabanas that provide full wet bars, flat screen HD televisions, personal servers, state of the art sound systems and privacy curtains, the pool area is perfect for escaping to your own secret paradise.

If soaking up rays isn’t your cup of tea, why not take up a round of golf at the Pelican Hill Golf Club? Considered to be among the finest clubs in America, this 36 hole masterpiece was designed by premier golf course architect Tom Fazio and attracts a following from all over the world. There is even a 44,000 square foot clubhouse that is prepared to wow you with their vast array of amenities. Pull a muscle swinging that nine iron? Well then swing on by The Spa at Pelican Hill to replenish, invigorate, and relax. Quite literally actually as the spa caters their treatment styles to your specific needs and desires within each of those three categories. The service there is simply unbeatable.

Of course when you stay at a hotel the rooms are typically among your biggest concerns. Well no need to be concerned here. The one story Bungalow suites feature fireplaces, deep luxurious marble bathtubs, large flat panel HD plasma televisions, private parking for each, and all on a lovely terraced outcrop overlooking the Pacific. The Villas range from two to four bedrooms and are impeccably well appointed. Nestled high on the cliff tops they have fully furnished outdoor terraces, private garages, personal assigned staff available 24 hours a day, 500 count linens, and myriad other treats in store. There are several restaurants and cafés on site which are at the ready to prepare delicious gourmet delicacies at your request. One of them, Andrea, specializes in Tuscan inspired dishes and makes a grilled swordfish that is to die for. There is nothing not to love at Pelican Hill. From the gorgeous setting to the fine dining to the outrageous service, Pelican Hill is a perfect escape from the every day.

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Most dream vacations start with visions of exotic locales or escaping to several days of golf, tennis, kayaking, massages, and picnics. Well, hidden away on the island oasis of Mauritius is the fantastic spa resort of Shanti Maurice. Designed by architect Jean-Marc Eynaud, designer Chandu Chhada, and landscape architect Bill Bensley, this 32 acre paradise offers everything you could possibly envision for the perfect get away. The moment you step on to the property, an overwhelming sense of calm washes over you. This is due not only to the naturally tranquil setting of the warm white sand beaches with their cyan waters but also the holistically spiritual environment specifically created to lull travelers into a state of utter peace and contentment.

This beachfront resort overlooking the Indian Ocean is far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located several hundred miles from Madagascar off the southeastern coast of Africa it is nearly impossible to find a more idyllic setting. Outside you’ll see how Shanti Maurice seamlessly melded their luxurious three main pools with the lush gardens to give the impression one has walked into Eden. The suites and villas are no different. No matter where in the resort you choose to stay, you are guaranteed to be facing the ocean. Many of the suites (including the “basic” Junior Suites) feature outdoor rain showers while all have large flat screen plasma televisions and broadband internet access (which is nice when you are tucked away in a far corner of the globe).

Of the 64 different choices of accommodation offered each is more spectacular and opulent than the last. Luxury Villas are completely private surrounded by thick foliage and have their own private swimming pools (as do all the villas). At over 1,200 square feet, the Luxury Suite Villas complete with private courtyards and outdoor lounge beds are sure to please. For those double dating couples retreats, the Two Bedroom Suite Villas will win you over with the relaxing Jacuzzi built into the pool and a fantastic pavilion great for enjoying a lunch with the balmy sea air. Of course the granddaddy of them all, the Presidential Suite, is a two bedroom three bathroom masterpiece covering 2,600 plus square feet and providing you with the ultimate in service, privacy, and quiet.

Dining at Shanti Maurice is simply exquisite and can be had outdoors, in room, or at any of their four amazing restaurants all geared to providing food that is not only fresh and healthy but also quite delicious. And obviously you don’t go to a “spa resort” without taking part in their specialty, Ayurvedic treatments for the body and soul. Aside from yoga, meditation, and Pilates you can relax with uniquely formulated body wraps, water therapies, and expertly tailored massage treatments that are truly healing and rejuvenating. After all this dining and pampering feel free to work off a few pounds by taking a day hike, learning to wind surf, or maybe even a round of golf. Shanti Maurice promises your every wish is their command with outstanding service, breathtaking vistas, and the ultimate in luxury. So grab your visa, passport, and sense of adventure and make your way to the island you never knew you loved.

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Nestled in a 16 acre oasis in Buttala, Sri Lanka is a truly unique hotel, the Kumbuk River Resort. This unique eco-lodge is known around the world for a large two story primary villa that is built in the shape of an elephant. This amazing eco-friendly destination is located on the edge of Yala, Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife sanctuary. Take in the beautiful surroundings in this extremely private environment that allows guests to become one with nature. With a maximum of ten guests staying at the resort at any one time they are able to provide you with a once in a lifetime adventure while keeping true to their high ecological standards.

Although the giant elephant villa is the resorts main attraction it also offers two additional chalets that are available for larger groups. Small groups can also enjoy exclusive use and privacy by reserving the entire resort, perfect for anyone from a single person to a touring party or family of up to ten. There is much to do at the Kumbuk River Resort, guest can eat, sleep and relax in a haven of their own. Explore the picturesque riverfront and miniature island or go trekking on the other side of the property which is Yala, the wildlife sanctuary. Guests can also spot elephants in the moonlight or catch a glimpse of colorful peacocks roaming the grounds at sunrise. Guided tours to the wildlife parks and historical sites are available; you can also take a guided drive at night to spot some awesome animals.

A stay at this spectacular resort will also teach you about Sri Lanka’s incredible bio-diversity. You will learn things you never knew about all kinds of wild animals and plants that are native to the area. After a relaxing dip in the resorts herbal plunge pool you can continue exploring the local flora and fauna or take a tour to one of the local beach resorts, famous ancient cities and much more. Kumbuk River Resort truly provides guests with a quality stay in an eco-hideaway that will leave you with amazing memories you will never forget. Reservations for the entire resort can be had for a mere $250 per night for two guests, and only $85 additional for each additional member of the party.

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The city of Milan is home to the first of three current self proclaimed seven star hotels in the world, the Seven Stars Galleria (also known as the Town House Galleria). Located in the heart of the city, this unique and prestigious luxury hotel provides guests with the highest level of service and is the only hotel inside the historic “Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II”. Built in 1876, this remarkable landmark features amazing architecture from extraordinary hand painted vaulted ceilings to large shuttered windows, all preserved and restored to provide guests with one of the most unique environments you can find. Prepare to have your every desire fulfilled and immerse yourself into this historic setting.

Upon your arrival at the hotel, the superb staff take care every detail and preference you may have. From the right type of bed linen, pillow, bathroom linen and even the type of cuisine you would like to enjoy, anything can be yours at the magnificent Seven Stars Galleria. The hotel does an amazing job of creating a home-like atmosphere with unique services tailored to meet your needs. Each room comes with some of the most exclusive accessories, from the best Italian coffee machines to the most sought after books. Oh did we mention you also get your own butler? Yes, you can enjoy the ultimate in luxury with your own personal butler service for the duration of your visit at Seven Stars Galleria. The hotel offers seven suites that reflect the history, charm and style of the city of Milan guaranteeing you an unforgettable stay. All the rooms are furnished with designer furniture and feature antique oak. The hotel also offers the Ambassador Wing which features two master bedrooms, two lounges, 3 bathrooms, a guest toilet and dining or meeting room. The wing is located in a separate area of the hotel to guarantee you maximum privacy and exclusive access.

Dining at Seven Stars Galleria is a delightful adventure into culinary pleasure. La Sinfonia, the hotel’s a la Carte lounge restaurant offers guests a full bar as well as 24 hour in room dining. With delectable menus that vary according to season, the restaurant’s chef creates a different gourmet menu on a daily basis. The restaurant and bar itself is open from early morning through evening providing guests with Continental, Italian and Nouvelle cuisine. And of course it also offers an extensive list of fine Italian wines to complement the scrumptious food. Glamorous and gorgeous, the Town House Galleria leaves you wanting for nothing. Be it personal limo service, child care, unbelievable food, or just simply an opulent place to lay your head, this is one hotel that really has it all.

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Opened in 1876 as Glenwood Cottage, a twelve room adobe boarding house, continuous renovations and additions have left the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa a glorious masterpiece of Mission Revival architecture. Today the Mission Inn boasts 239 rooms along with a well appointed spa, several restaurants, a museum, a chapel, and even a fantastic boutique. Lying over an entire city block, it is the grande dame of Riverside, California. It is among the premier hotels on California, attracting the biggest of celebrities, the rich, famous, and even ten different United States presidents!

Every corner of the property is a treat for the eyes. From intricate spiral staircases, to their luxurious gardens, to the massive towers, every feature at the Mission Inn was well thought and perfectly placed. Such an interesting assemblage of details is due in large part to the work of numerous architects that each placed their own unique twist on the design. Rather than feeling disjointed, the result is warm and welcoming, despite its clearly lavish accommodations.

Close to Southern California wine country and nestled in the heart of the mountains, there is literally no end to all there is to do here. Try one of their relaxing and refreshing body wraps at Kelly’s Spa. Check out the Mission Inn Museum which houses millions of dollars worth of interesting artifacts and antiques. If you’re feeling cooped up (which is difficult in a place this huge) talk to the very helpful concierge who can direct you to hundreds of fun and exciting local attractions. Don’t wander too far though because you will not want to miss the delicious champagne brunch on Sunday or the mouthwatering prime aged steaks at Duane’s.

For over 130 years the Mission Inn has been surprising and delighting guests with fine service and beautiful décor. Rates for this opulent hotel start very reasonably at under $200.00. They top out at well over $1,000.00 a night; but you can expect utterly magnificent lodgings with vaulted ceilings, king size canopy beds, fireplaces, and fantastic views of the countryside. When we say this place is gorgeous, it’s an understatement. You’re going to want to marry the Mission Inn and have its babies. Fall in love with this amazing National Historic Landmark over and over. It is clear to all who stay here why it has been a tourist favorite for over a century.

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Less than fifteen minutes from downtown San Jose is an amazing, eclectic family owned boutique hotel that is the perfect starting point to visit all kinds of Costa Rican destinations, the Corteza Amarilla Art Lodge & Spa. The hotel was created about fourteen years ago on family owned property utilizing materials from demolished homes in San Jose. The bulk of the 18 hectacre property has been part of a reforestation project, creating a lush forest surrounding to the hotel. The hotel itself sits on a little over an acre of property and blends amazingly with its surroundings.

The Corteza Amarilla Art Lodge & Spa features twelve junior and master suites are each uniquely designed to give you an amazing experience. Five of the junior suites feature king beds, another two offer queen beds and three more give you two queen beds. These marvelous suites combine nature with small details to give you and unrivaled stay. There are also two master suites in the hotel, one with a king bed and the other with two queens. These amazing rooms feature 100% Egyptian cotton linens and have a spectacular interior garden allowing you be one with Mother Nature.

Dining at Corteza Amarilla is a truly delightful experience. The hotel’s restaurant specializes in gourmet fusion incorporating flavors from across the globe. They mix and create the most unique and superb tastes your palate could ever imagine. The spa at Corteza Amarilla lets you enjoy some wonderful pampering with massages, facials, scrubs and much more available. With so much to do in and around the hotel combined with its lush natural surroundings, the Corteza Amarilla Art Lodge & Spa is the perfect place to enjoy the nature of Costa Rica while also experiencing all of the impressive sights. Junior suites start at $145 per night and the Master Suites start at $175 per night.

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Although it is known for its tasty potatoes, Idaho is also home to one of the most unique hotels you can find. The Dog Bark Park Inn is a one-of-a-kind bed and breakfast that has been created in the shape of a beagle and is one of the most well known landmarks in the state. This distinctive two-bedroom bed & breakfast and features decorative carvings created by resident chain saw artists Dennis and Frances, the husband and wife team who created and own this creative retreat. Guests enter the beagle through a private second story deck and are greeted by all kinds of chainsaw art dog decorations throughout. The 2nd level of the Dog Bark Park Inn, the head of the dog, features a loft room with additional sleeping space and a cozy alcove in the muzzle.

Visitors are treated to an extensive self-serve continental breakfast featuring a variety of teas, coffees, juices, fresh fruits, cheeses, eggs, bagels, home-baked pastries along with the family’s amazing fruited granola which is made using their secret recipe. The Dog Bark Park Inn accommodates up to four guests utilizing its queen bed and two twin fold out futon mattresses in the loft. The bed & breakfast also offers guests an array of amenities to keep them comfortable including a microwave, small refrigerator, air conditioning, books, games, puzzles and more. Don’t expect to see a TV or telephone, those are not provided.

Sweet Willy, the unofficial name give to Dog Bark Park Inn, is a throwback to the early days of the automobile when roadside architectural attractions were used to entice travelers into a visit or a stay. Willy isn’t alone, his buddy Toby, a 12 foot beagle statue both stand tall signaling your arrival on the grounds. The Cottonwood area is very close to a variety of activities that will both entertain and educate. Take a hike along the nearby Lewis and Clark Trail, check out the Monastery of St. Gertrude & Historical Museum or the Bicentennial Historical Museum. For those looking to be a little more adventurous, you can go whitewater rafting or go on a Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour. Be sure to check out the gift shop so that you too can be the proud owner of a piece of chainsaw dog art. A stay at the Dog Bark Park Inn runs $92/night double occupancy, $8 per additional person, single occupancy is available for $86/night. The B&B is quite popular having been featured on a variety of television shows and magazines so make sure to plan ahead.

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New Zealand is home to some of the most spectacular views you can find, the Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses give you some of these amazing views from the comfort of your own luxury tree house or amazing suite. Located a little over 6 miles north of the eco-tourism town of Kaikoura, Hapuku Lodge offers luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine and a plethora of activities for you to enjoy. Guests can take in the spectacular scenery, swim a few laps in the pool or even take a walk through the olive orchard or down a track of native plants to the beach. The Lodge is loaded with activities to take part in, enjoy a drink at the café, stay fit with their lap pool, sauna and work out room or head out and do some hiking or kayaking through the amazing natural beauty New Zealand offers.

Hapuku Lodge features five luxurious tree houses, three luxury suites, a unique luxury room that overlooks the pool and a one bedroom room. One of the most unique accommodations in New Zealand, the Tree Houses stand 30 feet above the ground in the canopy of a splendid Manuka grove. Each of the tree houses provides you with incredible views of Kaikoura’s spectacular mountains and the marvelous Pacific coastline. There are three types of houses available; One Bedroom houses, perfect for honeymooners and couples, slightly smaller and less expensive Lower Branch houses and Family houses which include an upper bedroom tree house for the parents and a lower bedroom for the kids. The Hapuku Lodge Suites are spacious rooms amazingly decorated with custom built wood furnishings, fireplaces, large bathrooms and balconies giving you views of Kaikoura’s impressive surroundings. The Olive House Suite is the hotel’s most spacious lodging option with enough room for two adults and up to three children. It gives guests a 360 degree view of mountains, ocean, deer farm and the olive orchard of course. The suite also includes a fully equipped kitchen and dining area, wood burning fireplace, twin balconies, couple’s bath spa and even a full cooked breakfast for two in the lodge.

Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses offers guests continental or cooked breakfasts as well as a three-course dinner menu with a focus on fresh local ingredients, some from their own little farm. They also feature an extensive New Zealand wine list as well as traditional cocktails, local and international beers as well as non-alcoholic drinks. The coastal waters of Kaikoura are abundant in marine life and the natural landscape of the area creates a variety of activies in and around Kaikoura for you to explore. Take part in one of the world famous whale watching cruises, encounter giant albatross, swim with dolphins and seals or deep sea fish year round. So prepare yourself for an amazing ecological adventure and book your tree house, it’s all right at your fingertips when staying at Hapuku Lodge.

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Orient-Express offers the greatest and most luxurious of African hotels and journeys! The sheer amount of options and combinations are mind staggering! Today, however we will discuss just one of the many fine vacation opportunities that await you at Orient Express. The Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa is as fine a hotel as any continent can boast. What other place can boast of wild jungle and exotic animals wandering free range in their native habitats in such grand numbers!

The setting is an idyllic hilltop with a sprawling garden of lush landscaping with multicolored flowers and native plants. The Mount Nelson Hotel is a diamond situated in South Africa a dynamic estate in the very heart of the city’s cultural center. Here the whole world is all yours. You are here on the coast with some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and waterfront activities. They don’t just aim to please, they hit their target every time with a bulls eye in patron satisfaction! Offering over 200 rooms with six individually designed accommodations; the hotel also provides as standard fully accessible luxury accommodations for disabled patrons.

Located just a few short steps away from the main hotel are the Garden Cottage Suites. Every cottage has been individually decorated and elegantly appointed with features such as oversized king size beds, glamorous Venetian mirrors, and marble bathrooms. Each is carefully secluded and are an ideal romantic getaway set in the lee of Mount Nelson. Enjoy walking through your own private rose garden (as beautiful as they are fragrant) enclosed by a white picket fence or relax on the shaded bench and simply take in the moment. Cottages all have their own separate dining and living areas as well as walk in dressing rooms ante to the bathroom. The cottages are all located along scenic Sydenham Terrace and feature as standard adults’ only gardens and pool areas for those less inclined to have company, such as newlyweds and lovers.

The finest dining in this luxury fest can be yours at Cape Colony. The Cape Colony has something for every palate. The produce used at the restaurant is grown locally and delivered fresh and abundant daily. The bill of fare includes local favorites using a cornucopia of spices to tantalize the taste buds as well as world standards always well prepared and gracefully served. If you are looking for casual al fresco, the Oasis is bistro style open air dining and they even offer evening tea in the lounge. The night holds more dining adventure still. The Planet Champagne Bar provides sumptuous treats with delicious cocktails under a star filled African sky.

The Mount Nelson also offers a complete package of tours and adventures in Africa’s heartland to visit some of the world’s most exotic species inches away. Come for the adventure stay for the luxury and excitement and fun, the secluded leisure and the total pampering of the most luxurious African adventure on the planet. Do it today and don’t delay, don’t waste another second, South Africa fulfills your every wish.

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