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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

Providing a regal setting overlooking the gardens, the Royal Suite with Plunge Pool at The Leela Palace New Dehli is an opulent retreat, complete with exclusive Five Star Alliance Perks. The living area of the indulgent suite has an exquisite chandelier, floor-to-ceiling windows, plush sitting area, flat-screen TV, and an entrance to the suite's own private pool. Continue reading below the photo. 

The Royal Suite with Private Plunge Pool at The Leela Palace New Delhi

One of the Royal Suite's most unique and indulgent features is the private plunge pool. The open-to-the-sky temperature controlled in-room plunge pool with Jacuzzi is surrounded by casual seating, ideal for lounging in the welcoming air. Plus, the space has large windows perfect for taking in views of the city while relaxing in private luxury. Continue reading below the photo to learn more about the hotel and an exclusive Five Star Alliance Perks offer.

Private Plunge Pool in the Royal Suite at The Leela Palace New Delhi

The Leela Palace New Delhi at Chanakyapuri is located within the Diplomatic Enclave. Featuring legendary Lutyens' design and architecture, the hotel has gleaming chandeliers, carved viceroy elephants, hand-woven carpets, and an eclectic art collection. Guest rooms and suites are equipped with state-of-the-art luxuries, and the hotel's iconic dining destinations include an award-winning Italian restaurant and Le Cirque, a modern Japanese restaurant. Plus, The Leela Palace New Delhi has a rooftop weather-controlled swimming pool. Learn more about exclusive Five Star Alliance Perks below the photo. 

Rooftop Pool at The Leela Palace New Delhi

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also receive full breakfast for each guest daily in The Qube, roundtrip airport transfer in a luxury sedan, Palace Art Walk, complimentary WiFi, and an automatic room category upgrade at booking, based on availability.

Check availability at The Leehla Palace New Delhi


| By: Rachael Weir

Taj Lake Palace

Offering a contrast of cultures, religions, and history, India provides a range of experiences for travelers. In this edition of Featured Journeys, we're highlighting royal palace hotels on this multi-destination trip to India. We begin in Hyderabad at the Taj Falaknuma Palace, next we head to a palace in the middle of a lake at the Taj Lake Palace (shown above), and we end our journey in Mumbai, the Gateway to India. 

Hyderabad, India

One of India's former princely states, Hyderabad was once one of the country's largest and wealthiest states. More than 400 years old, the city built its fortune on pearls, gold, steel, fabric, and diamonds. At one time, the city and the Golconda Fort was the most famous dining mining area in the world, as Golconda is where the Koh-i-Noor and Hope diamonds were excavated. Today, the city is the capital of Andhra Pradesh, and it is known for thriving information technology and biotech research industries. There's a vibrant culture here with luxury hotels and regional cuisine. 

Taj Falaknuma Palace

Green palace bedroom at Taj Falaknuma Palae

Formerly the palace of the Nizam, Taj Falaknuma Palace was built in 1894. Perched 2,000 feet above the City of Pearls, the grand palace offers guests a royal experience. Visitors arrive via a horse-drawn carriage, and butlers attend to their needs while staying at the palace. Spread over 32 acres, the palace hotel has 60 guest rooms and suites where opulence, excess, and historical details are honored and revered. Adaa provides a gastronomic experience with fine Indian cuisine, the Jiva Spa has an array of treatments rooted in traditional Indian practices, and afternoon tea is served on the Jade Terrace. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests making reservations through Five Star Alliance receive full breakfast daily and one dinner at Adaa per person, per stay. Also, subject to availability at the time of check-in/departure: a room upgrade, early check-in, and late check-out.

Check rates at Taj Falaknuma Palace

Explore more Hyderabad Luxury Hotels

 

Udaipur, India

This picturesque area in Rajasthan is set around Lake Pichola with the purple-hued Aravalli Range of mountains in surrounding the city in every direction. Here travelers can visit colorful bazaars to shop for local goods, take in a lively arts scene, go for a boat ride, and explore city's palaces, temples, and traditional decorated residences called havelis

Taj Lake Palace

Spa Boat at Taj Lake Palace

Built as a pleasure palace by the the young prince, Maharana Jagat Singh II of Udaipur in 1746, Taj Lake Palace is a heritage hotel situated in the middle of Lake Pichola. Restored to its pristine and elegant glory, the hotel's 65 luxe guest rooms and 18 grand suites feature views of the lake, Aravalli Hills, Machla Magra Hills, and Jag Mandir. The site of a variety of movies including the Bond film "Octopussy", this regal property is popular for weddings and honeymoons, as well as travelers seeking a royal experience at the Jiva Spa (including the spa boat shown above) or authentic Rajasthani at Neel Kamal. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also receive lunch or dinner for two once during stay, a Heritage Walk of the property followed by a glass of sparkling wine, a 15% discount on spa services, Butler Service, daily a la carte breakfast for two in Jharokha Restaurant, and a traditional welcome amenity. 

Check rates at Taj Lake Palace

Explore more Udaipur Luxury Hotels

 

Mumbai, India

Once known as Bombay, Mumbai is a fusion of cultures and time periods. Reminders of its colonial past are never far away, and new malls mix with historic sites like the UNESCO-protected Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. The fast-growing city has been the Gateway to India for centuries due to its strong port location, and it continues to evolve while maintaining its spiritual roots. Babulnath Temple is a serene destination for Hindu pilgrims, and Muslims walk to the white marble Haji Ali shrine via the seafront causeway.

The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai

The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai

Within walking distance of the Colaba Causeway, The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai was recently trademarked. Built in 1903, the property has been a landmark in the city's harbour, welcoming kings, dignitaries, and prominent figures from around the world since its opening. Overlooking the Gateway of India, the hotel is strategically located in the city's historic and commercial hub. Close to the financial hub, parliament, stadium, shopping, and office districts, as well as museums, churches, and synagogues, the palace hotel harkens the glamour of a bygone era. Golden Keys Concierge can assist guests with exclusive experiences, authentic cuisine is served at Masala Kraft, and Golden Dragon offers Chinese specialties. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also receive buffet breakfast for two daily at Sea Lounge and a one way airport to hotel transfer in a Mercedes car on a sharing basis. 

Check rates at The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai

Explore more Mumbai Luxury Hotels


| By: Rachael Weir

Love a good ghost story? So do we. This Halloween we've gathered a list of five luxury hotels known for eery experiences and legendary ghost stories. From London to Vancouver, here are five of our favorites. 

1. The Langham London

The Langham London

Built in 1865, this luxe hotel with a world-reknowned Afternoon Tea is also known for sightings of the paranormal kind. From a German prince in a military jacket that jumped to his untimely death, to a Victorian-era doctor who killed his bride and himself while on their honeymoon, the majority of the paranormal activity happens in Room 333.

Check availability at The Langham London

2. Hotel del Coronado

Hotel del Coronado

In 1892, a young woman arrived on Thanksgiving alone and never checked out. After five lonely days, Kate Morgan took her own life. To this day, the Ghost of Kate Morgan continues with stories of lights flickering, objects mysteriously moving, along with unexplained voices and footsteps. Paranormal researchers have documented supernatural activity from Kate's room on the third floor, and there have been Kate sightings along the seashore and in the hotel hallways. 

Check availability at the Hotel del Coronado

3. Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

Known as the "Castle in the City" the legendary Canadian National Railway hotel that first opened as a hotel in 1939, is also home to the Lady in Red, a friendly ghost. Often spotted on the 14th floor in an elegant red evening gown, she's also been seen on the first floor and gliding through the hallways. Security cameras have picked up strange sounds and disembodied footsteps, guests have reported sightings over the years, and a special cocktail is served at the lobby lounge in her honor. 

Check availability at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

4. Emily Morgan Hotel

Emily Morgan Hotel

Next to the Alamo, the hotel was originally constructed as the Medical Arts Building on the Alamo Plaza. Featuring a copper roof with wood ribs, the building is lined by an array of gargoyles, each depicting a medical ailment. Believed to be one of the most haunted hotels west of the Mississippi, there have been stories of guests' phones ringing in the middle, lights and TVs turning on mysteriously, bathtubs being filled on their own, and sightings of women dressed in white. The most common sightings have seemed to occur on floors 12 and 14, which were once surgery and crematorium floors. 

Check availability at the Emily Morgan Hotel

5. Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai

The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai

Featuring old world grace and charm, W. A. Chambers was one of the designers behind the opulent hotel. He left for a trip to England once the blueprints were completed, and returned to discover the design was not being carried out as planned. According to legend, he jumped to his death from the fifth floor, and stories have told he's been spotted roaming the halls of the hotel to this day. 

Check availability at the Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai


| By: Rachael Weir

Nestled amongst a rugged landscape on the outskirts of Ranthambore National Park, Aman-i-Khas is a luxury wilderness camp with 10 elegant tents, as well as a tented dining room and spa. Inspired by the tents of Mughal emperors that traveled the ancient lands, this exclusive retreat offers a serene setting ideal for viewing the area's abundant wildlife including tigers, leopards, chital deer, crocodiles, hyenas, and sloth bears. Continue reading below the photo. 

Exterior of Aman-i-Khas

Raised on concrete plinths, the air-conditioned luxury tents are reminiscent of Mughal pavillions with cotton drapes creating separate sleeping, dressing, and bathing areas. Positioned to ensure privacy, the tents overlook the natural landscape, teaming with wildlife. Featuring high draped ceilings, tents have classic furnishings as well as wifi, air conditioning, ceiling fans, and heating systems. There are living rooms with twin writing desks, oversized daybeds for lounging, chest coolers for drinks, and dining areas. Plus, sleeping quarters with king or twin beds, dressing areas, and twin vanities. Continue reading below the photo. 

Aman-i-Khas Luxury Tent

Within each luxury tent there is a bathing area separated by cotton drapes from the living and sleeping areas. Offering all the modern comforts, there is a shower, bathtub, and separate toilet. Read more below the photo. 

Aman-i-Khas Luxury Tent Bathing Area

In addition to the luxury indoor living spaces, the tents have outdoor sundecks providing panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. Continue reading below the photo.

Aman-i-Khas Luxury Tent Patio

The Aman-i-Khas has a tented, lamp-lit dining room with a large communal table and smaller tables. Reminiscent of the Mughal emperors' tent cities, the dining area provides guests with a seasonal menu featuring chef-prepared dishes crafted with ingredients from the property's organic garden and local sources. Continue reading below the dining room photo.

Aman-i-Khas Dining Tent

There's also a tented spa with two treatment rooms and a bubbling fountain, as well as Reiki massages, Ayurvedic treatments, outdoor yoga, and a pool lined with lounge chairs. Read more below the photo.

Aman-i-Khas Spa

For guests looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Aman-i-Khas offers Tiger Safaris with expert guides taking visitors into the untouched jungle to see tigers in the wild. On the safaris, guests learn about the tracking and movements of the tigers, leopards, hyenas, chital deer, and crocodiles. 

Learn more about Aman-i-Khas

Breakfast at Aman-i-Khas


| By: Rachael Weir

Centrally located between historic New Delhi and the Gurgaon corporate hub, The Roseate New Delhi offers an urban retreat amidst eight acres of lush greenery and tranquil water bodies. Featuring award-winning architecture that accents the surrounding beauty, the property offers a serene setting removed from city traffic, yet a close drive to businesses and attractions. Discover three reasons to stay at The Roseate New Delhi below the photo.

Premium Pool View Room at The Roseate New Delhi

Three Reasons to Stay at The Roseate New Delhi:

1. Dining

The Roseate New Delhi

The hotel offers three dining options: Kiyan, Chi Ni, and IAH Bar. For international cuisine with a European emphasis, the hotel's signature restaurant Kiyan offers an upscale setting surrounded by blue water bodies amongst Isfahan columns with farm-to-table cuisine. Chi Ni serves "Chinese Cuisine from Heart" and the Iah Bar offers a relaxed indoor and outdoor experience with expertly-crafted food and beverage pairings.

2. The Aheli Spa 

The Roseate New Delhi

Offering a serene setting amidst bodies of water, the world-class facility has four indoor treatment suites with private verandahs and outdoor treatment areas. Guests can choose from an array of services and treatments, and there's also a beauty salon. 

3. Club Privé

For an additional level of exclusivity, the hotel's Club Privé is available by invitation only. Members have access to the Club Privé bar and lounge, as well as secretarial services, customized facilities, and personalized offerings. 

Check rates and availability at The Roseate New Delhi


| By: Rachael Weir

Providing a modern setting, the Roseate House New Delhi is contemporary luxury hotel with multiple restaurants, spa, cinema, and upscale shopping. Set amongst 1.6 sprawling acres, the hotel is adjacent to Indira Gandhi International Airport, and about a 30-minute drive to the historical capital of New Delhi and the Gurgaon corporate hub. Designed to offer a respite from the city hustle, the stylish property provides a retreat with cosmopolitan flair. Continue reading below to learn about three of the hotel's top amenities. 

Guest Room at the Roseate House New Delhi

1. The Aheli Spa

The Spa at Roseate House New Delhi

Focused on wellness, the serene sanctuary offers an array of signature treatments including the Aheli Journey and the Coupled Up experiences. Set between two bodies of water, there are outdoor treatment areas, as well as four indoor treatment suites with private verandas, plus a salon. 

2. Luxury Shopping

Sprawled over 1500 meters, the hotel's retail area is designed to provide guests with an experiential shopping environment. Set on the ground floor, the ultra-luxe shops feature high end luxury brands such as Porsche Design, Bally, and Van Laack.

3. The Platinum Lounge Cinema

Platinum Lounge Cinema at Roseate House New Delhi

Designed to offer a best-in-class viewing experience, the hotel's 71-seat theater features an upscale setting for guests to watch movies without leaving the hotel. The Platinum Lounge Cinema can also be rented for private events such as movie screenings, board meetings, and awards nights.

Check rates and availability at the Roseate House New Delhi


| By: Rachael Weir

Blending traditional Mewar style with modern luxury, the Kohinoor Suite with Private Pool at The Oberoi Udaivilas is lavish and spacious suite with a private pool and 24-hour butler service. Guests arrive through a sunlit outer courtyard and chandelier-lit inner courtyard. Once inside, there are domed ceilings, hand carved marble privacy screens, and mirror mosaics. Within the space, there is an opulent master bedroom, twin bedroom, dining room, and living room. The bedrooms have pillowtop mattresses, along with blackout curtains, and pillow menus. The ensuite bathroom has a separate shower with massage settings, standalone claw-footed bathtub, TV volume controls, and natural toiletries created exclusively for Oberoi Hotels. Throughout the suite, there are Frangipani trees, miniature wall pantings, an espresso machine, three 42-inch flat-screen TVs, and five telephones. Continue reading below the photo.

Inside the Kohinoor Suite at The Oberoi Udaivilas

Plus, the suite's private, outdoor, temperature-controlled pool is framed by sun loungers, recessed sofa seating, and an outdoor dining space. Read more below.

Exterior of the Kohinoor Suite at The Oberoi Udaivilas

The Oberoi Udaivilas overlooks Udaipur's Lake Pichola and the Udaipur City Palace. Surrounded by 30 acres of gardens, fountains, and pavilions, the property is styled like a Rajasthani Palace. Standing on the 200-year-old hunting grounds of Maharana of Mewar, there is a wildlife sanctuary with deer and wild boar. The luxury hotel has the Oberoi Spa with Ayurveda inspired, Eastern, Western, and signature Oberoi treatments, plus morning yoga, outdoor pools, and fine dining options at indoor and al fresco restaurants. Read more below the photo.

Exterior of The Oberoi Udaivilas

Guests have the opportunity to partake in exclusive Oberoi experiences such as city tours by boat, traditional Thekri workshops, miniature painting classes, henna painting, safa tying, heritage walks, maharaja rides, pottery classes, cooking and bartending lessons. 

Check rates and availability at The Oberoi Udaivilas


| By: Five Star Alliance

The outdoor swimming pool at The St. Regis Mumbai, overlooking the cityscape, is the piece de resistance of the wellness floor. With a lounge area, a deck with private cabanas and a pool bar, it is a haven for calm and repose on a lazy afternoon or even for an easy sundowners.

The St Regis Mumbai

Book a stay at The St. Regis Mumbai >>


| By: Five Star Alliance

Alila Diwa Goa brings a refreshingly unique resort experience to Gonsua Beach in Majorda, just 20 minutes from
Goa Dabolim International Airport. Set amidst the serene landscape of lush, verdant rice plantations flowing towards
the Arabian Sea, relaxation reigns at this Goa resort. Enter a sanctuary of contemporary elegance inspired by traditional
Goan design − steeply pitched roofs, ceiling high columns, cool verandas, and tranquil courtyards, setting us apart from
other luxury hotels in Goa. Whether enjoying an intimate couple's retreat or a getaway for the entire family, the 153
rooms and suites at this Goa resort offer havens of space, comfort and serenity, while the resort's Diwa Club is an enclave
of exclusivity, boasting its own lap pool with an open air Jacuzzi and hot tub.

Book a stay at Alila Diwa Goa>>


| By: Five Star Alliance

Located on the southwest coast of Goa, overlooking the Arabian sea, Taj Exotica Goa is one of the best five star hotels in Goa. Set amidst fifty-six acres of lush gardens, Taj Exotica is a showcase for relaxation with tropical-inspired design touches, grand architecture, a sun-drenched atrium, wide shady corridors, and flower lined patios for a memorable stay.

Taj Exotica Goa

Book a stay at Taj Exotica Goa >>


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