The InterContinental Lisbon has a central location

Location! Location! When visiting Lisbon it is important to stay at a place that is centrally located and one that provides a place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing. Located between Eduardo VII Park, Marques de Pombal Square, and the luxurious Avenida da Liberdade, InterContinental Lisbon has it all. With warm refinement, contemporary design and expansive views, the hotel was recently rebranded and remodeled. The doorman in a long coat and derby hat welcomes guests into the high-ceilinged lobby with several conversational areas.

It is easy to recognize the hotel’s unique contemporary design which provides all the rooms with a corner window. Featuring contemporary designs and warm hues, accommodations come with marble bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and flat screen TVs, as well as desks, and tea and coffeemakers. Deluxe rooms add a comfy sitting area. Upgrades are complimentary for Priority Club Members. Make sure to include expansive breakfast served in a large, dedicated dining room. Breakfast is well worth it.

The trendy Uptown Bar with a unique kaleidoscope ceiling is theperfect place to meet friends or relax while enjoying a cocktail or glass of wine. Light fare is available. Lunch and dinner in the Akla Restaurant offer Portuguese and international items with a large selection of wines including the well-respected Portuguese wines. Check out their special healthy, green lunches and their show kitchen area.

The InterContinental is close to tour bus stops and only a short taxi ride to the center and other touristic locations.  For more information check www.ihg.com and if you are not a Priority Member sign up – it is free.

Enjoy the view at Sirenetta Hotel in Ostia Lido, Italy

Location, location, location.  The Sirenetta Hotel in Ostia is across the street from the beach and the metro is a short walk from the hotel with easy access to Rome and Ostia Antica. The retro-style hotel is decorated in vintage posters and music-related artifacts from 50 years ago.  Very cool. There is a dining terrace in front of the hotel and a garden one in the back of the hotel.  

The 58 rooms, most of which equipped with ample terraces and furnished balconies, offer a lovely sea view. Guests will enjoy the air-conditioning, flat screen TV, free WiFi, phone, mini fridge, safety box, private bathroom with shower, and hair dryer.  Many rooms have large balconies making it a great place to enjoy a meal and/or a libation.  The sunsets are beautiful. 

The beach is long and wide – great for walking and basking on the

 beach after a dip in the Tyrrhenian Sea. There are cabanas for rent across the street for a more private beach experience.  The hotel has a wonderful restaurant featuring homemade items plus there are some nice cozy restaurants, wood cooked pizzerias, and ice cream shops nearby. For more information log on to www.hotelsirenettaroma.com. Reserve a room with a balcony facing the sea. 

Malta’s Ramla Bay Resort is all about the view

Imagine throwing open your curtains in the morning to reveal unobstructed views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea or the

striking Maltese countryside. You can do that at Ramla Bay Resort Hotel located in a quiet area on the northern part of the island of Malta with views of Comino and Gozo islands. Ramla Bay is one of the few resorts located away from the busy center and even though the beach is small it is not shoulder to shoulder with people like some of the other beaches. The two swimming pools have sea views. 

The nicely decorated rooms all have a balcony with views of the countryside or of the islands. Each is pleasantly decorated and offers excellent facilities to ensure comfort throughout the stay with us, including central heating and air-conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, WIFI, satellite TV and a direct-dial telephone.

Dining opportunities are endless and all equally good with

Mediterranean and international specialties. The Horizon offers an endless buffet for all meals including breakfast and their Sunday Lunch Buffet is special. The Alang-Alang Restaurant overlooking the seas is great for fine evening dining. At the Mojitos Beach Terrace Bay enjoy lunch and your favorite libation by the sea. No need to leave the pool during the day. The Seabreeze Casual dining is right on the pool deck.

The hotel has everything one would need for a perfect resort stay: plenty of water sports, pools, beach, water fun activities, several restaurants, and a spa. Families are welcome. There is kid’s center and an animation center.  In the lobby there are several agencies who will gladly arrange tours and other activities. There is also a mini-mart sundries shop and a jewelry store on site. A shuttle bus has scheduled runs, for a small fee, that will take guests to various parts of the island. Stayed tune to learn about their new upscale addition. For more information www.ramlabayresort.com.

The 16th century Cornerstones B&B overlooks the River Dee in Wales

Located on a side street in the quite Welsh market town of Llangollen, the Cornerstones B&B has the ambiance of the 1500s with all the modern conveniences of today. The Cornerstones is a collection of three 16th century houses with a commanding view of the River Dee. With only five rooms demand is high. Choose between the River and Oak rooms that offer a lounge and inglenook breakfast room or the ground floor suite overlooking the river, or one of the luxury rooms that were once part of the Red Lion Inn during the old coaching days sporting a working fireplace to keep off chill during cooler months. The suite has a double bedroom and living room with its own front door for complete privacy. All accommodations display original features such as beamed ceilings and wooden floors. However, guest can enjoy the TV with DVD player, chilled libations from the mini fridge, complimentary tea and coffee with cakes and biscuits. Complimentary parking is offered in local parking lots and the bus stop is just a few steps away. The train station is also in the center of the village.

After a hearty Welsh breakfast of locally sourced products explore the town. Walk up the hill to the wharf and enjoy a ferry boat ride. Several trips on the narrow canal boats are offered including ones that are motorized or horse drawn. Or visit Plas Newydd, home to the Ladies of Llangollen who became celebrated throughout Regency Society. For more information check www.cornerstones-guesthouse.co.uk.

When in Wales stay in the romantic Ruthin Castle

There is nothing more romantic than staying in a castle. Ruthin Castle Hotel started out as a wooden fort in 1277 and over the years was changed and added to becoming the large fort-like castle of today. According to legend, King Arthur disguised himself for a romantic liaison with his mistress at Ruthin. He was discovered and exposed by an old adversary. Arthur had him executed on a stone block that is now on display in the town square. The romantic legends associated with the castle are many including one about the Grey Lady, the ghost of whom can sometimes be seen roaming the battlements. It seems she axed to death the girl her husband was having an affair with and the humiliated wife was executed.

Each accommodation is uniquely designed for comfort without losing the character of the castle. In the evening have a cocktail in the wood-paneled Library Bar. Enjoy a gourmet dinner in Bertie’s Restaurant named for King Edward VII who was a frequent guest of the castle. After dinner the gardens are a quiet place to wander while wondering who else strolled the paths and what liaisons took place with only the proud peacocks watching. On occasion the hotel hosts a Medieval Banquet with fully costumed ladies of the court leading guests to the candlelit banquet table laden with food. Be ready for an evening of entertainment, fun, and feasting. For more information click on www.ruthincastle.co.uk.

Portmeirion is a fantasy destination in Northern Wales

There are many unique aspects of travel in Wales but there is nothing quite like Portmeirion. The fantasy village was designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975 to resemble an Italian village. Today there are shops, a spa, a beach, a pool, excellent dining and delightful accommodations - all of unique design. Surrounding the village are 70 acres of exotic woodlands with easy to follow trails and coastal walks. The four-star North Wales village on the coast of Snowdonia is a popular attraction for day visitors but to really savor the ambiance of Portmeirion one needs to spend at least one night. During the day the village is bustling with activity but in the evening a blanket of peace settles over the fairytale land. Walking the quiet streets and lane one feels as if they are the sole proprietor of a storybook village.

Dining options are excellent. Castell Deudraeth's brasserie menu is based on the best fresh local produce from land and sea. Lamb is often from Portmeirion's own fields. All the ice cream is made in house. It is open for morning coffee, lunch, and dinner. There are a variety of other dining options. All accommodations are unique with great views. For more information check www.portmeirion-village.com and www.visitwales.com.

Be treated like royalty at Plas Maenan Country House in Wales

Situated on a sunny bluff high above the beautiful Conwy Valley, Plas Maenan Country House in Northern Wales boasts five star accommodations with stunning river and mountain views. The elegant dining room serves delicious seasonal produce for lunches and evening meals, and afternoon tea in the comfortable lounge is a popular feature.

The owners are as fascinating as the property. James Burt purchased Plas Maenan in 2004 and totally refurbished the place. Burt retired from HM The Queen where he worked in the Royal Cellars for 16 years. He traveled with the court to their annual peregrinations from Buckingham Place to Windsor Castle, Sandringham House, Holyrood House and Balmoral Castle. His term of service covered some of the most turbulent times for the royal family. He was one of the last royal servants to wear full state livery. Needless to say James Burt has brought the same dedication and attention to providing excellent service to Pals Maenan Country House that was part of serving the royal family.

Enjoy the view from the patio or relax in the parlor with fireside sheep, comfy chairs while reading the latest magazines and chatting with other guests. Before or after dinner enjoy a cocktail in the Library Bar.

After a five-star dinner that focuses on locally produced food retire to one of the rooms decorated and furnished in traditional Edwardian country house style with the owner’s personal touches added. The beds are supremely comfortable, the thick towels fluffy, and ducks float in the bathtub. Plas Maenan is a great place to call home when exploring Northern Wales. For more information check www.plas-maenan-hotel.co.uk.

The Castle Hotel in Conway, Wales is a step into the past

Conway is the stuff dreams are made of – castles, walled cities, and cobblestone streets that harkens back to an earlier time. Within the walls of Conway is The Castle Hotel, an old coaching inn that stands on the site of a Cistercian abbey. At one time it was two famous hostelries, The Castle and the 15th Century King's Head. The Castle was by far the largest and in Victorian times it had an attractive face lift of local granite and Ruabon brick and is now one of Conwy's most photographed buildings.

The Castle Hotel has a fascinating past and has made important contributions to Conwy's history. It has hosted many famous people over the years. Located in the middle of the town everything is just a short step away from the 4-Star accommodation with a boutique ambiance including the Plas Mawr, the Elizabethan Town House built between 1576 and 1585. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel. All 28 rooms are unique and ensuite. Guests can relax in Dawsons Bar before heading the newly redecorated Dawsons Restaurant for a fine dining experience. The hotel holds true to “Friendly Tradition in Historical Surroundings.” Conwy and the Castle Hotel is the perfect base for exploring Northern Wales. For more information check www.castlewales.co.uk.

Stay at the Trearddur Bay Hotel when on Anglesey Isle in Wales

Anglesey is an island off the coast of Wales suitable for royalty as it is the current home of the newly married royal couple, Prince William and Kate. There are two bridges that connect the isle to the mainland along with excellent ferry service from Ireland. The hotel is only minutes away from Holyrood railway and the ferry terminal. Guests at the Trearddur Bay hotel will be treated like royalty. Located on a beautiful Trearddur Bay with an expansive blue-flag beach, the Trearddur Bay Hotel offers panoramic views of the sandy beach and cliffs.

Guests can kick back and relax while enjoying the incredible views and fresh air or the more adventurous can partake in a wide range of water sports including sailing, diving, and fishing. There is also biking, horseback riding, tennis, bird watching and great trails to hike. Trearddur Bay Hotel has an indoor swimming pool and special arrangements with several nearby golf courses.

At the end of the day head to the lounge for a relaxing cocktail or a glass of wine before enjoying a delectable dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, The Inn at the Bay. Their a la carte menu offer the finest in locally sourced meat and seafood from Menai mussels to award-winning local sausages. No meal is complete without one of their mouthwatering desserts such as Chocolate Pavlova or Strawberry Eton Mess. No wonder guests return time and again to enjoy the Trearddur Bay Hotel and all the area has to offer. For more information check www.trearddurbayhotel.co.uk.

Morrison Hotel is in the heart of Dublin

The three most important aspects of a hotel are location, location, and location. The Morrison Hotel on Ormond Quay is spot on when it comes to location. Located in the heart of Dublin on the River Liffey it has easy access to all that Dublin has to offer including shopping, popular evening hangouts, museums, and theaters.. The boutique hotel has an East-meets-West ambiance with a mix of high ceiling, stone floors, original artwork, and a zen-like patio garden.

Their newly opened split-level fitness center has treadmills, cross trainers, stationary bikes and stepmasters. The upper level is home to the free weights, stretching mats, and yoga balls. The floor-to-ceiling windows make it a bright and airy place to workout.

All accommodations present a relaxing ambience with a Feng Shui influence to create balance and harmony. Rooms feature flat screen TV's, air conditioning, safe, mini bar, salon hairdryer, and tea and coffee making facilities. Beds have soft duvets and pillows, with crisp linen. The bathrooms feature limestone floors and ultramodern Natural Products amenities, fluffy bathrobes and slippers. Complimentary Internet access is available in all bedrooms and suites.

From the Café Bar overlooking the River Liffey guests can watch the world go by. It is a great place for light bites and meeting with friend. For more information check http://www.morrisonhotel.ie/.

Merrion Hotel in Dublin is fantastic

When in Dublin consider the Merrion Hotel for the most elegant of accommodations. At the Merrion Hotel, which is where President Obama stayed during his recent visit, they strive to create an at-home ambiance. The hotel was originally four 18th century homes that have been blended into an elegant accommodation. In keeping with the concept that homes are “living” things the owners have decorated with a mix of furnishings and paintings. Centrally located, the 5-star hotel has several unique features including two landscaped period gardens and an eclectic collection of paintings by 40 Irish artists belonging to the owners of the Merrion Hotel. Theyare the focus of the hotel’s unique Art Tea, which is good enough to eat! Pastry Chef Paul Kelly has designed his selection of pastries to compliment some of the artwork on display.

Since its opening, The Merrion Hotel in central Dublin has established itself as the epitome of relaxed grandeur, welcoming Dubliners and visitors to the city with stunningly appointed rooms, crackling turf fires and a host of facilities. For more information check www.merrionhotel.com.

Enjoy royal treatment at the Ritz Carlton Powerscourt in the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland

There are hotels and there are wonderful hotels and then there is the Ritz Carlton Powercourt! Just a short distance from Dublin but a world away in County Wicklow the Ritz Carlton is located on one of the most scenic and historic estates in Ireland - Powerscourt. The 200-room resort showcases Palladian-style architecture and offers guests a host of amenities along with excellent service one expects from a Ritz Carlton. Both the Wicklow Mountains and the Ritz Carlton offer a unique and stunning perspective on travel in Emerald Island.

Dine at the Gordon Ramsay signature restaurant with a view Sugar Loaf Mountain and chose from the eclectic menu that draws from Irish raised meat and produce. Play a round of golf on their championship course or discover one of nature’s special places on the River Walk. Hike or jog alone one of five dedicated trails. Go cycling with one of the hotel’s complimentary bikes. Tour the gardens at Powerscourt – one of the world’s most exquisite gardens. Be pampered and rejuvenate at their ESPA. At the end of a wonderful day retire to your royal accommodations where nothing has been overlooked from signature linens to marble bathrooms with a recessed television screen in the mirror to fingertip panels for controlling the lights, curtains, and temperature.

With easy and quick access to Dublin airport the Ritz Carlton Powerscourt is the perfect place to start or end a visit to Ireland. After all, you deserve it. For more information check http://www.ritzcarlton.com/

When in Dublin consider staying at the Croke Park Hotel

Ideally located directly across from Ireland's greatest stadium with easy access to and from Dublin Airport and just ten minutes walk from the centre of Dublin, it is right in the heart of the action when it comes to sporting, entertainment and business events in Dublin making it the perfect accommodation while in Dublin. With complimentary parking, spacious interiors, luxurious bedrooms, complimentary internet throughout, a Bistro and buzzing bar, The Croke Park Hotel makes every occasion special.

Start the day with their full Irish breakfast that includes fresh fruit, bangers, eggs, delicious Irish soda bread, and more. To make the location even more appealing the Hop-on bus tour stops just outside the main door with connection to the town center and the beginning of the city tour. After touring the city and visiting the sites relax in the evening at the Bistro or in the bar with wide screen TV and a pint of Guinness, or visit their fully equipped exercise room. Guests will find the hotel with its attentive staff the perfect choice when staying in Dublin. And, the prices are right! So for the sport fans or tourists or the business person The Croke Park Hotel is the perfect accommodation.

NH Schiphol Airport

- Located near Schipol Airport with transport to hotel and easy bus and train connections to the rest of the Netherlands
- An excellent place to relax before or after a flight
- Enjoy their health center with sauna, workout area, swimming pool and dining options.

For more information on Nh Schipol Airport Hotel and other Nh Hotels check www.nh-hotels.com.

Istanbul, Turkey: Barcelo Eresin Topkapi

• Excellent location near the historic city walls with a tram stop steps from the hotel
• Beautiful spa and indoor pool making guests forget they are in a city
• Expansive buffets with international selections

For more this hotel and more great Barcelo properties worldwide check www.barcelo.com.

Cesme, Turkey: Radisson Blu

• Beautiful full-service hotel with a picturesque beach front location
• Easy connections to quaint village via local bus
• Exquisite spa with large Turkey hummans

For more information on this hotel and other luxurious Radisson Blu properties check www.radissonblu.com.

Bodrum, Turkey: Divan Hotel

• A beautiful boutique hotel in a garden setting
• Located in Turkbuku with convenient connections to town by bus
• Expect excellent and personalized service

Click on www.divan.com.tr for this hotel and other Divan hotel locations.

Antalya, Turkey: Divan Hotel

• A full service hotel with a drop dead view of the Mediterranean and Taurus Mountain
• Walking distance to the historic center of the city
• Complete wellness center with luxurious Turkish hamman

Click on www.divan.com.tr for this hotel and other Divan hotel locations.

Roscommon, Ireland: Abbey Hotel

The 4-star Abbey Hotel in Roscommon, Ireland is a charming 18th century manor house with beautiful grounds and a great view of an abbey. Owned by the Grealy family the hotel is one of "casual elegance in a timeless relaxed atmosphere," with 50 beautifully appointed accommodations, a leisure center with an indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and fully equipped gym to complement their excellent restaurant, bar, and function rooms. The hotel takes its name from the 13th Century Roscommon Abbey, located behind the hotel with views of the ruins from the restaurant and some bedrooms. From the hotel is an easy walk to the ruins of Roscommon Castle, the train station, and shopping.

Nearby attractions include a golf course; the Clonalis House, the ancestral home of the O'Conors of Connacht; the Arigna Mining Experience, where the tradition of mining dates back to the 1600s when Charles Coote established iron works at Crevelea and Arigna; Interpretive Galleries & Museum located in a restored 18th century Georgian Mansion where stories of a tragic Irish romance, cattle raids, great banquets, family feuds, a murder trial, mutiny, and feats of bravery and hardship in the war of the famous Connaught Rangers Regiment are detailed; and the Famine Museum where visitors learn about the event that changed Ireland forever. The Abbey Hotel is a great place to meet, have drink, dine, and, of course, stay. For more information check www.abbeyhotel.ie.

Santorini, Greece: Rocabella Resort Hotel

 Located 1000 feet above the caldera at the island’s midpoint with jaw-dropping views
 Each accommodation is unique with Arte Nuevo decorations
 Excellent personalized service, popular for destination weddings

For more information on this beautiful property check http://www.rocabella.gr/.