With 70 properties worldwide, Starwood's Luxury Collection is a group of unique hotels and resorts offering exceptional service to an ultra elite clientèle. Located in over 25 countries (even Ethiopia), the collection offers resorts, city-center high-rises, centuries old buildings, modern boutique properties, over water bungalows, and more. A current favorite of mine is the Hotel Danieli in Venice. Made up of 3 interconnecting palaces - Dandolo Palace, Casa Nuova, and Danielino - the Danieli is steps away from Piazza San Marco, Doge's Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs. A great choice for special occasions and first visits to Venice are the Lagoon view rooms (pictured), some of which have a balcony - all are beautifully decorated in Empire or Venetian style and offer romantic views of the Venice lagoon.

NOTE: Guests making reservations at Hotel Danieli through Five Star Alliance will receive a traditional English high tea once during stay and, based on availability, a one category room upgrade at check-in. Pretty snazzy.