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LUXURY HOTEL INSIDER

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The Luxury Hotel Insider: Exclusive luxury hotel deals, features and special rates from the luxury hotel experts at Five Star Alliance.
Named one of Tripbase's Best Luxury Travel Blogs for 2011, below are Five Star Alliance's newest articles featuring exclusive information on luxury hotels worldwide including special offers and deals at the world's best hotels.

| By: Rachael Weir

Featured Journeys: Thailand

Featured Journeys: Thailand

From world-class cuisine to luxury retreats, Thailand is a country offering a bounty of arts and cultural experiences, fresh flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and picturesque beaches. In this edition of Featured Journeys, we highlight a multi-destination itinerary beginning in the northern region of Chiang Rai where guests can explore the Golden Triangle, then on to the cosmopolitan destination of Bangkok, and finishing on the island of Phuket. 

Chiang Rai

The northernmost province in Thailand, Chiang Rai is a broad valley with tree-lined riverbanks. Separated by Laos to the east and Myanmar to the west by the Mekong River, Chiang Rai offers a lush setting for travelers to relax and unwind before or after trekking trips to the Golden Triangle and Chiang Saen. 

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

Country Suite at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

Overlooking the border of Myanmar and Laos, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is a luxury resort perched on a ridge in northern Thailand. Offering a tranquil jungle setting, the property is home to an award-winning elephant camp for rescued elephants with scientific and conservation programs. There are 40 room and 15 suites, including 6 family suites, all of which feature indigenous artworks, teak furnishings, and modern comforts like rain showers, soaking tubs, and balconies with daybeds. Guests of the resort have access to an array of one-of-a-kind experiences including cooking and cultural activities, spa services, and elephant encounters. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate or "Best Available Rate" will also include a $100 Resort Credit per room/per stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value), complimentary WiFI, and full breakfast for each guest daily. 

In addition, this hotel offers exclusive 2019 FIVE STAR ALLIANCE SUITE & VILLA PRIVILEGES that can be combined with the FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK (if requirements are met). 

2019 FIVE STAR ALLIANCE SUITE & VILLA PRIVILEGES: Guests booking a stay of 2 or more nights in a villa or suite receive a $100 Spa Credit per stay. This offer is valid for stays of at least two nights through December 31, 2019 in Deluxe Suites. 

Check availability at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

Explore more Chiang Rai Luxury Hotels

Bangkok

From palaces to street markets such as Chatuchak Weekend Market, Sampeng Market, and Pahurat Textile Market, Bangkok is a city with a variety of tourist attractions. There are famous temples including the well-known Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Wat Phu Khao Thong, Wat Ratchanadda, Wat Traimit, Wat Benchamabophit, Wat Bowon, and Wat Sutat, as well as popular museums in west Bangkok like Don Kai Dee Benjarong Village, Phra Pathom Chedi, Sanam Chandra Palace, Don Wai Floating Market, Sampran Riverside, and Thai Human Imagery Museum. While in Bangkok, visitors will also want to explore the city's prime nightlife scene. 

The Siam Hotel

The Siam Hotel Pool

In the historic district of Bangkok, The Siam Hotel is set amidst 3 acres of lush gardens on the Chao Phraya River. Close to the city's top historical sites and cultural attractions, the property offers guests a private urban retreat with an extensive arts and antique collection, luxurious suites and villas, award-winning Opium Spa, Muay Thai fighter program, and Sak Yant tattoos, which are a sacred Thai tradition. Plus, the property offers the Chon Thai Restaurant serving traditional Thai cuisine within a cluster of three 100-year-old Thai teakwood houses, Deco Bar & Bistro with international comfort cuisine, and the poolside Bathers Bar overlooking the Chao Phraya river. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests making reservations with Five Star Alliance will also receive a $100 food and beverage credit per room/per stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full), a selected welcome drink for two on the first evening at the pier or Deco Bar, an afternoon treat from 3 – 4 PM at Deco Bar or swimming pool for guests staying in a pool villa.

Check availability at The Siam 

Explore more Bangkok Luxury Hotels

Phuket

Located in Southern Thailand, Phuket is a beach destination on an island in the Andaman Sea. Easily reachable via a one-hour flight from Bangkok, Phuket offers some of the world's top beaches including Rawai, Patong, Karon, Kamala, Kata Yai, Kata Noi, and Mai Khao. For one-of-a-kind sunsets, visitors should head to Laem Phromthep Viewpoint, considered to offer some of the most picturesque sunsets in Thailand. Strongly influenced by the Chinese, travelers to the island will see Chinese shrines and Chinese restaurants around the city, and there is a Chinese Vegetarian Festival held yearly, as well as an array of international influences and trendy nightlife scene. 

Amanpuri

Amanpuri

Set on a hillside, Amanpuri is a luxurious place of peace. Interiors feature original artworks, hand-loomed silks, fragrant orchids, and custom-crafted furniture. Elegant dining options highlight Thailand cuisine, as well as fresh Japanese sashimi at Nama restaurant, Italian cuisine at Arva, along with Mexican snacks and cocktails at the Latin American Bar. There's a black-tiled pool, as well as the beach and water sports in the Andaman Sea such as snorkeling, kayaking, and jet-skiing. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also include continental breakfast for two daily in the Dining Room or through room service and a $100 USD hotel credit per room/per stay. 

In addition, this hotel offers exclusive 2019 FIVE STAR ALLIANCE SUITE & VILLA PRIVILEGES that can be combined with the FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK (if requirements are met). 

2019 FIVE STAR ALLIANCE SUITE & VILLA PRIVILEGES: One lunch for up to two people per room, excluding alcoholic beverages and gratuities, once during their stay (value $100). Note: Nama, Amanpuri Japanese restaurant is not included. This offer is valid for stays of at least two nights through December 31, 2019 in Ocean Pool Pavilion, Premium Ocean Pavilion, 2 Bedroom Pool Pavilion, 2 Bedroom Garden Villa, 2 Bedroom Ocean Villa, 3 Bedroom Garden Villa, 3 Bedroom Ocean Villa, 4 Bedroom Garden Villa, 4 Bedroom Ocean Villa, 5 Bedroom Garden Villa, 5 Bedroom Ocean Villa, 6 Bedroom Garden Villa, 6 Bedroom Ocean Villa, 7 Bedroom Garden Villa, 8 Bedroom Garden Villa, 8 Bedroom Ocean Villa, or 9 Bedroom Ocean Villa. 

Check availability at Amanpuri

Explore more Phuket Luxury Hotels


| By: Rachael Weir

In June 2018, the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas unveiled a new two bedroom villa.

Nestled amidst the Bill Bensley gardens, the Two Bedroom Royal Villa by Jim Thompson at Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas is an ultra-luxe villa steps from Mai Khao's white-sand beaches with a private pool, traditional Thai sala over the lagoon, and a sundeck. Inspired by the villa's natural surroundings and fashion connoisseur Jim Thompson's silk designs from the 1950s and 60s, the exclusive sanctuary highlights multiple Thai silks throughout. Natural Thai Makha hardwood flooring provides a unique patina throughout the villa, there's Thai artwork and carvings, as well as classic Thai Pikul flower designs. In the living room, Thompson's fabrics mingle with woods and sandy hues to create a nautical feel. Read more below the living room photo.

Two Bedroom Royal Villa by Jim Thompson Living Room

In the master bedroom, Thompson's Heliconia Dreamin' provides a vibrant and whimsical style that extends to the swimming pool and sala. The design was inspired by the Heliconia flower that continues to flourish today at Jim Thompson's former home. Overlooking the pool and gardens, the twin bedroom showcases the Floriential print, highlighting whimsical birds and butterflies frolicking amidst peonies. Continue reading below the photo of the twin bedroom. 

Two Bedroom Royal Villa by Jim Thompson Twin Bedroom

“We have a passion for enhancing our pool villas so that guests can enjoy the full beauty of Anantara Mai Khao, inside and out,” explains Nikolaus Priesnitz General Manager of Anantara Mai Khao. “The Two-Bedroom Royal Villa by Jim Thompson offers a secluded retreat with luxury amenities and is ideal for families, while highlighting the gorgeous designs of a truly beloved Thai treasure.” Read more below the photo of the exterior of the villa. 

Exterior of the Two Bedroom Royal Villa by Jim Thompson

Guests of the Two Bedroom Royal Villa by Jim Thompson are welcomed with fresh flowers and fruit juices upon arrival, as well as personalized Villa Host service, Anantara Spa products, and a complimentary set of the Bvlgari Guest Collection. The Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas is located on the island's secluded northwest coast. Along the Andaman Sea, the property offers locally-inspired architecture, indigenous gardens, and excursions to Sirinath National Park's tropical mangroves, dives to coral reefs, and strolls through local villages. 

Check availability at Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas


| By: Rachael Weir

18 Places to go in 2018 by Five Star Alliance

Happy 2018! The start of the new year is the perfect time to start planning adventures near and far. From bucket list destinations to weekend getaways, we've put together a list of our top 18 picks for places to go in 2018. 

1. Florence, Italy

18 Places to go in 2018 Florence, Italy

Following a two-year renovation, the half-mile-long Vasari Corridor will reopen this year. The 16th century passageway was built by the Medicis to move unseen across the Arno River between the Pitti Palace and the Uffizi Gallery offices. The Renaissance city also recently celebrated the opening of the Franco Zeffirelli Center for the Performing Arts in Plaza San Firenze with a lineup of classical music and Italian film events. In October, the Uffizi will unveil Codex Leicester, featuring a special collection of scientific drawings and writings by Leonardo da Vinci (on loan from Bill Gates). For views of Il Duomo (and special perks for Five Star Alliance guests) Brunelleschi Hotel Florence is located in the city's pedestrian-only historic center with an upscale Italian restaurant and traditional trattoria. Hotel Il Salviatino is set within a 15th century villa that features views of Florence and the rolling Tuscan hills, while Belmond Villa San Michelle is located on a hillside overlooking the city in a former monastery with suites, Tuscan dining, pool, and special perks for Five Star Alliance guests. 

Explore more Florence Hotels

 

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

18 Places to go in 2018 New Orleans, Louisiana

Celebrating its 300th birthday in 2018, the city of New Orleans will be hosting more than 160 events throughout the year to commemorate the tricentennial year. Always a haven for jazz lovers, history buffs, and foodies, there's a variety of events taking place annually including Mardi Gras in February, April welcomes Jazz Fest, and July is the time for Tales of the Cocktail where bartenders from around the world show off their skills in the city where cocktails were invented. The W New Orleans French Quarter is steps from Jackson Square, as well as live Jazz venues and popular restaurants. For historic charm along with an Oyster Butler, Crawfish Concierge, and Snowball Sommelier, The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans offers a classic setting in two historic buildings on Canal Street. The NOPSI Hotel provides a boutique setting in the heart of the business district with Spa Suites, local cuisine, and a rooftop pool and lounge. While Le Meridien New Orleans features contemporary design with French-inspired amenities and a rooftop pool in downtown. 

Explore more New Orleans Hotels

 

3. Vienna, Austria

18 Places to go in 2018 Vienna, Austria

Known for classical music and the festive ball season, in 2018 Vienna is celebrating Modernism, as four of the art movement's most important artists--Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, Otto Wagner, and Koloman Moser passed away 100 years ago. The Beauty and the Abyss celebration of Modernism will celebrated with with special exhibitions at a variety of venues including the Leopold Museum, Lower Belvedere, MAK--Austrian Museum of Applied Arts/Contemporary Art, Wien Museum, Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna, and the Jewish Museum Vienna. The historic Hotel Sacher Wien provides a central location in the heart of the city, opposite the Vienna State Opera House and next to the Albertina Gallery with a traditional Austrian coffeehouse and fine dining. Nearby, The Hotel Bristol Vienna, a Luxury Collection Hotel offers a historic setting with fine dining at the Art Deco Bristol Lounge, fitness center, and meeting venues. Built in 1863 for the prince of Württemberg, Hotel Imperial provides world class service and a unique location on the famous Ringstrasse next to the Musikverein Vienna. 

Explore more Vienna Hotels

 

4. Buenos Aires, Argentina

18 Places to go in 2018 Buenos Aires, Argentina

Home to an array of art galleries, Buenos Aires is partaking in the inaugural, yearlong Art Basel initiative, which will include art lectures, workshops, as well as showcase local and international artists. In October, the city is hosting the Youth Olympic Games. The trendy Tegui restaurant in the Palermo neighborhood made the list of the World's 50 Best Restaurants. Situated in El Porteno Building, Faena Hotel Buenos Aires allows guests to experience the city like a Porteno in an atmosphere dedicated to art and fine living. Decorated in Empire and Louis XV style, the Alvear Palace Hotel serves classic Afternoon Tea at L'Orangerie and the Cigar Bar with an exclusive selection. While the Park Hyatt Buenos Aires is located along the Avenida Alvear with fashionable shopping and a luxury spa. 

Explore more Buenos Aires Hotels

 

5. Minneapolis, Minnesota

18 Places to go in 2018 Minneapolis, Minnesota

Offering four distinctive seasons of outdoor activities, Minneapolis will be hosting the Super Bowl on February 4. Surrounding the Big Game festivities, there will be concerts, ice sculptures, and an Ice Palace in nearby St. Paul. While the city is known for cold winters, spring, summer, and fall provide idyllic weather for exploring the state's multitude of lakes, biking trails, and parks. Plus, Prince's Paisley Park recently opened for tours, the Walker Art Center recently remodeled their outdoor sculpture garden, the Uptown Art Festival the first weekend in August showcases local and international artists, and the annual Minnesota State Fair (August 23 to September 3, 2018) attracts visitors from all over the world. The W Minneapolis - The Foshay is an art deco landmark transformed into a chic boutique hotel, Loews Minneapolis is connected to the downtown area's skyway system and steps from Target Center and Target Field, and the Marquette Hotel is located in the inconic IDS Center. 

Explore more Minneapolis Hotels

 

6. Cairo, Egypt

18 Places to go  in 2018 Cairo

Not far from the Great Pyramids, The Grand Egyptian Museum is set to open in 2018. Designed by Heneghan Peng Architects, the new museum will showcase more than 100,000 artifacts, as well as an atrium with a floor-to-ceiling glass wall with panoramic views of the Pyramid of Menkaure and the Great Pyramid of Khufu. The Nile Ritz-Carlton features exclusive Nile views with a rooftop bar, Afternoon Tea, and Egyptian-infused spa. Situated thirty minutes from the Sphinx and Great Pyramids of Giza, The Fairmont Cairo, Nile City is located within the Nile City Corporate Complex and offers a full-service Willow Stream Spa and a rooftop poolside sky bar with panoramic views of the city and pyramids. For a boutique setting, Kempinski Nile Hotel Garden City Cairo blends European luxury mixed with regional influences on the eastern bank of The Nile River.

Explore more Cairo Hotels

 

7. London, United Kingdom

18 Places to go in 2018 London

There's another royal baby due in the spring, and it's time for another Royal Wedding! Making London one of the places to be this year. Plus, there's a new movie about Winston Churchill, giving visitors the perfect reason to check out Churchill's War Rooms, and other historic sites throughout the British capital. Overlooking Hyde Park, The Wellesley is a boutique hotel close to Buckingham Palace with the Crystal Bar, Oval Restaurant, and one of Europe's largest Cigar Humidors. Combining English heritage with contemporary styling, Rosewood London offers fine dining, spa, and sophistication where the city meets Covent Garden and the West End on High Holborn. Situated in Belgravia, The Goring Hotel offers an unbeatable location close to Buckingham Palace with a Michelin-starred restaurant and classic English style. 

Explore more London Hotels

 

8. Los Cabos, Mexico

18 Places to go in 2018 Los Cabos

Booming with hip restaurant openings, new luxury resorts, and major renovations, the Baja Peninsula's San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas offer beachfront retreats. In addition to new resorts and dining options, the farm-to-table food scene is hot, as are the region's beaches and chic nightclubs. The recently opened Chileno Bay Resort & Residences provides a bayfront setting within a resort community with a swimmable beach, open-air dining, multi-level infinity pool, and championship golf. The Cape - A Thompson Hotel provides beachfront luxury with bi-level suites with private rooftops, private stairway to the surfing-friendly Monuments Beach, and regionally-inspired cuisine. While The Resort at Pedregal is reachable only via a private tunnel with 24 acres of mountainside property, featuring newly opened villas and revitalized culinary offerings. 

Explore more Los Cabos Hotels

 

9. Mauritius

18 Places to go in 2018 Mauritius

This year, the island nation of Mauritius is celebrating 50 years of independence after years of colonization by the United Kingdom, France, and the Netherlands. The airport is expanding and transforming into a hub for traveling to Asia, English is the dominant language, and the architecture and culture mix African, French, Chinese, and Indian traditions. Known for relaxed resorts and tropical mountain peaks, the country offers a retreat surrounded by the Indian Ocean. For privacy and luxury, Constance Le Prince Maurice has 64 Junior Suites, plus Family Suites, villas, and a Princely Suite, as well as the U Spa, Kids' Club, shopping, and two 18-hole golf courses. The Residence Mauritius provides a beachfront setting with accommodations in turn-of-the-century-inspired plantation houses, with family-friendly and adults-only pools and special perks for Five Star Alliance guests. While the oceanfront Constance Belle Mare Plage has a variety of water-focused recreation, four swimming pools, seven restaurants, and five bars within a tropical setting. 

Explore more Mauritius Hotels

 

10. Malta

18 Places to go in 2018 Malta

This island country is the designated European Capital of Culture in 2018, where the arts will be celebrated in a country that mixes Sicilian, North African, and Colonial England cultures. There's ornate architecture throughout the island, including the baroque St. John's Co-Cathedral, pre-historic ruins, and the must-try Stuffat tal-fenek--the national dish of rabbit stew. In January, Valetta's National Baroque Festival is held, and the Grand Excelsior Hotel makes an ideal base for exploring the capital city with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, Le Grand Spa, and a marina. The InterContinental Malta provides a modern island retreat with a casino, six restaurants and bars, spa, conference center, and spa close to Valetta, while The Xara Palace features a boutique setting in the medieval city of Medina. 

Explore more Malta Hotels

 

11. Oslo, Norway

18 Places to go in 2018 Oslo

This Nordic capital city is marking two important events in 2018. Norway's King and Queen are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary, and the modern Oslo Opera House is marking it's 10th year with a season of celebratory performances. The Hotel Continental Oslo offers a historic setting next to the National Theater, and close to the city's revitalized harbor with special perks for Five Star Alliance guests. While the Grand Hotel Oslo offers a grand setting along Karl Johan's  Gate close to shops and sidewalk cafes. For a contemporary setting, the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Oslo soars 37 stories above the Oslo Fjord. 

Explore more Oslo Hotels

 

12. San Antonio, Texas

18 Places to go in 2018 San Antonio

Marking its 300th anniversary this year, San Antonio has recently unveiled a variety of new developments, including the Bottling Department (the city's first food hall), the iconic barges along the River Walk were upgraded with electric models, and San Pedro Creek Culture Park transformed an old drainage ditch into a waterfront promenade with performance and art spaces. Special Tricentennial commemorative events will take place May 1-6, including events at each of San Antonio's five missions. On the historic River Walk, the Omni La Mansion del Rio is celebrating it's 50th anniversary of being transformed from a Catholic School into a luxury hotel for the 1968 World's Fair. The Grand Hyatt San Antonio overlooks the River Walk with an outdoor pool, sundeck, and special perks for Five Star Alliance guests. For those seeking a resort setting overlooking Texas Hill Country, La Cantera Resort and Spa recently underwent a complete renovation, and offers furnishings inspired by the area's ranch heritage, two championship golf courses, and five pools about 30 minutes from downtown. 

Explore more San Antonio Hotels

 

13. Sevilla, Spain

18 Places to go in 2018 Sevilla, Spain

In the midst of reinvigorating its artistic past, Sevilla is currently celebrating the 400th anniversary of Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, a homegrown Baroque painter with special one-of-a-kind exhibitions. The city is also hosting the 31st European Film Awards, and the historic center provides an enchanting blend of architectural styles including a Gothic cathedral, medieval lanes, Flamenco clubs, baroque churches, and Mudéjar palaces. Once the Moorish capital, today Sevilla is the capital of Andalucia, offering luxury hotels such as the historic Hotel Alfonso XIII in the historic center with traditional architecture, courtyard, and regional cuisine. Nearby, Gran Melia Colon is furnished with reproductions of artwork by Spanish masters, a boutique hotel with RedLevel service within the hotel, and dining venues serving modern Andalusian cusine. For a well-preserved example of Spanish Renaissance architecture, Casa de Carmona is located about 20 minutes north of Sevilla and offers accommodations within a palace built in 1561, and fine dining in the former stables. 

Explore more Sevilla Hotels

 

14. Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil

18 Places to go in 2018 Iguazu Falls

Millions of visitors go to this famous UNESCO World Heritage Site with 275 roaring waterfalls straddling the border of Argentina and Brazil. To accommodate the influx of visitors, Cataratas del Iguazú Airport is expanding and modernizing. Within the national park, the Ecological Jungle Train that takes visitors on a 25-minute journey to the Devil's Throat Cascade is being converted from gas to electric, and multiple luxury resorts are set to open later this year. On the Brazil side of the falls, Belmond Hotel das Cataras offers guests exclusive access to the falls as well as a pastel-pink hideaway with gardens, fine dining, and a luxe outdoor pool. While The Iguazu Grand Resort Spa and Casino is located on the Argentina side of the falls with a full-service resort setting including authentic Argentine dining at La Terraza and the Spa del Parasiso providing treatments infused with natural ingredients like yerba mate and chocolate from nearby sources. 

Explore Iguaza Falls Hotels

 

15. Toronto, Canada

18 Places to go in 2018 Toronto

Last year Canada celebrated 150 years, and Toronto continues to add to the city's cosmopolitan "it" factor with new luxury hotels like the Bisha Hotel Toronto, along with hip restaurants with an understated Canadian vibe are taking the city to a new level. In 2018, the Museum of Contemporary Art is relocating to a former factory in the Junction Triangle, and VIKINGS: The Exhibition at the Royal Ontario Museum runs through April 2, 2018. The Thompson Toronto offers a modern residential style with floor-to-ceiling windows and a rooftop pool with skyline views. While The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto provides a classic downtown retreat along Wellington Street. 

Explore more Toronto Hotels

 

16. Bangkok, Thailand

18 Places to to go in 2018 Bangkok

In 2016, Bangkok was the most visited city in the world, with more than 21 million guests. Its popularity is sparking a rise in new luxury hotels and restaurants. In 2018, The Michelin Guide will debut, giving even more attention to  the city's creative culinary atmosphere. For art enthusiasts, Warehouse 30 is opening in  transformed World War II warehouses, ChangChui is a new entertainment complex constructed from upcycled materials, and the Thailand Creative & Design Center is moving to the iconic Charoen Krung Road in a space that was once a post office. To stay in the heart of Bangkok's historical palaces and temples, The Siam Hotel is set along the River of Kings with bespoke cultural amusements and an urban resort design with spacious suites, pool villas, and open-air roof terraces. Soaring 39 stories, The Peninsula Bangkok features panoramic city views on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and a three-tiered swimming pool. For contemporary style, Anantara Bangkok Sathorn is located within a 37-floor twin tower with an infinity pool and holistic spa treatments. 

Explore more Bangkok Hotels

 

17. Salzburg, Austria

18 Places to go in 2018 Salzburg

Referred to as the "City of Mozart" and the "Rome of the North" , Salzburg was a church state for more than 1,100 years. Symbols of the Catholic Church can be discovered throughout the historic Old Town of Salzburg, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 2018, the City of Salzburg will celebrate the 200th anniversary of "Silent Night", which was written and first performed in the village of Oberndorf near Salzburg on December 24, 1818. The special exhibition "Silent Night 200 - History. Message. Present." will be open September 28, 2018 to February 3, 2019, and the musical "My Silent Night" will be performed at the iconic Felsenreitschule on November 24, 2018. Hotel Sacher Salzburg provides idyllic views of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, as well as fine dining at the Zirbelzimmer, and the Original Sacher-Torte cake in the Sacher Cafe. In the baroque city center, Hotel Goldener Hirsch combines a historic setting with Austrian style and state-of-the-art amenities, while Schloss Fuschl Resort and Spa features a lakeside setting in the Archbishop of Salzburg's former hunting lodge. 

Explore more Salzburg Hotels

 

18. Melbourne, Australia

18 Places to go in 2018 Melbourne, Australia

As the events capital of Australia, Melbourne is a growing city offering a cosmopolitan core that serves as an ideal gateway to exploring a variety of Australia's attractions, including the Phillip Island penguin walk which is 90 minutes from the city, and an hour and a half north of the city is the Nagambie Lakes, one of the country's oldest viticulture areas with renowned wineries and outdoor activities. For a grand setting opposite Parliament, The Hotel Windsor was built at the top of Collins Street in 1883. For panoramic views of the skyline and Yarra River from the hotel pool, Langham Hotel Melbourne provides an elegant setting on the Southbank Promenade, and the Art Series The Olsen is a luxury boutique hotel on Chapel Street. 

Explore more Melbourne Hotels


| By: Rachael Weir
Set along the legendary Chao Phraya River, the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok, offers a luxurious experience with high end amenities including an infinity pool and six restaurants. Guest rooms and suites feature contemporary furnishings, floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies with river or city views, plus comfort pillow menus. Within walking distance of Wat Suthi Wararam and Asiatique The Riverfront, there's a fully equipped fitness center for staying in shape while on the road, and shuttle boat service along the Chao Phraya River to the Saphan Thaksin Bangkok Mass Transit Station. Continue reading below the photo for details about the hotel's top three amenities. 

Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok

Three of the best amenities at Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok:

1. The 35-meter infinity pool that appears to stretch out onto the Chao Phraya River, with a pool bar, relaxing sundeck with lounge chairs and umbrellas, plus breathtaking city views and fresh breezes. There's also two kids' pools, jacuzzi, and lush greenery for an ideal urban escape. 

Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok

2. Nemita Spa provides an ultra-luxe pampering environment with a wide range of treatments, including traditional Thai massages, bath rituals, facials, aromatherapy, and a variety of sensorial delights. 

Nemita Spa at the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok

3. Dining at the hotel offers a range of options from casual to upscale. For breathtaking views of the city, Pier 28 offers an al fresco riverside setting with Thai and international specialties. There's also the recently refurbished River Barge Restaurant with an upscale environment with unique lighting, a la carte menus, and themed buffet meals. Plus, the Silver Waves Chinese Restaurant will reopen in late 2016 with floor-to-ceiling windows and Bangkok views. 

Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok

Five Star Alliance Perk Alert: Guests that book with Five Star Alliance receive a complimentary box of homemade Thai tea macaroons. 

Check rates and availability at the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok >>

View from restaurant at the Chatrium Hotel Riverside BangkokSaveSave

| By: Five Star Alliance

Tower Club at lebua As if a stay at Tower Club at lebua wasn't enough...

When you book your stay through Five Star Alliance, you'll get complimentary cocktails (up to two) at Distil, the highest bar in Bangkok. You can toast your stay against the backdrop of one of the world's most exciting cities.

Tower Club at lebua is a luxurious five-star hotel that was named the World's Leading Luxury All-Suite Hotel at the World Travel Awards. Located on the 51st through 59th floors of the State Tower building, the views from the 221 gigantic suites are extraordinary, and the separate bedrooms, living room, and kitchenette are complemented by the infinite thoughtful touches that reflect the personalized, intuitive service that pervades every floor.
Tower Club at lebua

Located on the 64th floor, Distil is home to mixology magic like the new season of Aged Cocktails, for which the ingredients, including premium and exclusive Havana Club 3 Year Old rum and Plymouth gin, are aged in French oak barrels for several weeks, then shaken and muddled with nectars, spices, purees, and liqueurs. There's also a collection of Ice Cocktails, where standard ice has been replaced with spheres or cubes of completely unexpected flavors frozen at minus 1.9 degrees Celsius.

A wide selection of premium authentic malt whiskies, vodkas, and brandies are also stocked, and a walk-in wine cellar features the finest wines and champagnes from around the world. 

Book your stay at Tower Club at lebua>>

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| By: Five Star Alliance

Banyan Tree Samui overlooks the glorious panorama that encompasses Lamai Bay. Just 19 kilometres from Samui International airport, the resort showcases a sweeping collection of carefully curated villas, nestled on a private hill cove along the island's southeastern coast.

Book a stay at Banyan Tree Samui>>


| By: Five Star Alliance

Aleenta Hua Hin Resort & Spa in Pranburi is the original award winning boutique luxury resort upon
which Aleenta started. This special boutique luxury resort and spa features 22 unique residence, most
with a private pool. Each suite is located within steps of the beach and offers commanding views of the
stunning sunset sea view of the Gulf of Thailand. Situated on the pristine and golden sand stretch of Pak
Nampran Bay, Aleenta Hua Hin Resort & Spa, Pranburi is a mere 2.5 hour drive south of Bangkok.

Book a stay at Aleenta Resort and Spa Hua Hin>>


| By: Five Star Alliance
The Den is the pride and joy of Soneva Kiri. A giant moulded bamboo playground shaped like a manta ray, The Den is dedicated to learning, to excitement, and to meaningful experiences. Professional child minders pique children's imaginations, teaching them to play Thai instruments, unleashing their creative talents with painting and the visual arts, and carefully watching them at play in the wondrous world of moulded bamboo spaces.

 

The Den

Book a stay at Soneva Kiri >>


| By: Five Star Alliance

Extending over 32 metres on the 10th floor, Sofitel So Bangkok's infinity swimming pool is a luxury lap pool with low chlorine content. The water seemingly flows over the negative edge into the park and skyline beyond, giving the impression of swimming in mid-air, high above the bustling city streets. Tunes are piped in directly for a watery soundtrack, while at night, underwater LED lights create ever-changing shades of vibrant colour. An oasis lawn offers a sun-soaked spot for tanning or starlit venue for exclusive evening events.

Sofitel So Bangkok

Book a stay at Sofitel So Bangkok >>

 


| By: Five Star Alliance

The accommodation at Aleenta Hua Hin-Pranburi is unique in many ways. The Frangipani Wing served first as a beach getaway for the owner's family, before it was converted into stunning beachfront residences.

Book a stay at Aleenta Resort and Spa Hua Hin>>


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