Friday, August 31, 2012

Best hotels Buenos Aires

Situated along the shores of the Rio de la Plata, Buenos Aires is a cultural marvel.  Mirroring European cities like Madrid and Paris, this South American city is a blend of old world Europe and Latin flavor.  Popular for the captivating tango, delectable food and full-bodied wines, Buenos Aires is an exciting travel destination.

The arts are a very integral part of Buenos Aires and if you share that love you will have an abundance of things to keep you busy during your visit. Teatro Colon, one of the world's premier opera houses calls this sultry city home.  Although tickets are difficult to come by, visitors can take a guided tour and get at glimpse of this magnificent and famous musical hall.  After a tour of the opera house, visit Galle Museo Caminito.  Translated to mean "street museum", this bazaar like setting is overflowing with local artists and vendors selling their goods to excited tourists.  Although it can be a bit "gaudy", the energy of the people and brightly colored buildings make this a must see destination.   Buenos Aires is the home to 700 art galleries, 100 cinemas and 60 theatres, these two locations are just a few places that will leave you feeling cultured during your stay. 

Because Buenos Aires is known for its fabulous food and wine, deciding where to dine can be a bit overwhelming.  This contemporary town has a vast selection of food from different cultures, but still steeped in the Argentinian culture.  There are three areas that capture the modern food movement in Buenos Aires:  Palermo Soho, Palermo Hollywood and Las Canitas.  Hit any one of these neighborhoods and find numerous choices for the ultimate in fine dining.  If you want something a bit more low key but still mouth watering, visit some of the pizzerias or cafes throughout the city.  Wherever you chose to eat, just don't forget to visit the helanderias (ice cream shops) for a decadent dessert. 

Buenos Aires is defined by the tango, so going dancing and experiencing the heart pounding night-life is a must during your stay.  The people of Buenos Aires love to party and good music is just about the only thing necessary.   However, one thing to remember is that the "real" party doesn't start until the wee hours of the morning.  It will be easy to find a place to dance the night away, just make sure you don't get there too early and that you are dressed to impress. 

After a long night (or early morning) of dancing, rest and relaxation will be a top priority.  Our collection of the best hotels in Buenos Aires includes amazing properties with some impressive perks.  Alvear Palace Hotel offers elegance and modern conveniences.  Rest in one of the 197 rooms and then soothe your sore muscles with a massage in the on-site spa.  Faena Hotel + Universe gives travelers a historical haven.  This hotel is located in a notable grain building along the waterfront.  Where old meets new, this stylish hotel is oozing with charm.  If you want to be close to business and shopping, stay at the Four Seasons Buenos Aires.  This chic hotel offers modern comforts combined with 20th-century French style.  Select one of these fine hotels or check out our other options and you will find the best place to stay in this sensational city.

While experiencing the well known sights and sounds of Buenos Aires, there are so many other things to do and to see.  Plan on coming for a week, but don't be surprised if you want to stay for a lifetime in breathtaking Buenos Aires. 

Thursday, August 30, 2012

Best hotels Bangkok

Bangkok is notorious for its cosmopolitan vibe, phenomenal shopping and a heart pounding nightlife.  Known by the local people as the "city of angels", this capital city is the largest urban area and by far the most densely populated city in Thailand.  What some people may not know is that Bangkok is also considered the "spa capital of Asia".

Spa fanatics have found this opulent city overflowing with tranquil wellness centers.  Many locations offer treatments from the traditional Thai healing therapies to popular Western spa services.   The resorts and day spas are top notch in helping their guests find Nirvana.  A visitor can choose from a half day to a full day of services at many of the establishments.  If that doesn't seem long enough, splurge for a week of non-stop relaxation to nourish your mind, body and soul.

"Spa-ing" has become so popular in Bangkok that you can find any number of spa and wellness retreats.  Showcasing treatments from around the world, many resorts provide guests with a day pass.  This allows the traveler to visit the spa in the morning and have some serious fun in the city the rest of the day.  After relaxing and rejuvenating, spend some time at Bangkok's fabulous shopping malls.  Platinum Fashion Mall and Emporium Mall will give you that shopping fix you crave.  Are you hungry after your massage?  Many resorts offer a light lunch and snack option for those spa enthusiasts.  Want to get out and hang with the locals?  Book a table at Glow restaurant, known for its healthy cuisine.  Another option is Raw Food Cafe, where you can find snacks and entrees that will leave you satisfied but free of guilt.

Not sure where to stay while in spectacular Bangkok?  Our collection of the best hotels in Bangkok will give any visitor a number of luxurious locations to rest their weary heads.  The Four Seasons Bangkok with its traditional Thai architecture and painted silk ceilings will calm your nerves even before you visit their spa.  This on-site facility will give you options from treatments in the spa suites to a poolside massage.  The Peninsula Bangkok is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River.  This location gives you the convenience of  the waterway to get around the city and enjoy the shopping and spa tours.  If you don't want to leave the hotel, visit the Peninsula Spa and experience a unique blend of Thai and European treatments.  Another unforgettable location is Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, also near the famous Chao Phraya River.   The Oriental Spa was voted "best in the world" by Travel and Leisure magazine.  This spa gives guests the pleasure of traditional treatments handed down through the centuries. 

This beautiful city is luxurious and full of charm.  Although sometimes considered intense, the impressive surroundings draw you in and leave you wanting more.   Unwind and escape the everyday.  Soothe your soul in Bangkok.

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Best Hotels Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city that immediately conveys visions of windmills, tulips and wooden clogs.  Although these things are a part of Amsterdam's history and culture, this city has so much more to offer.  Getting its start as a quaint fishing village in the 13th century, it is now a focus for business and tourism.  Known for its laid back attitude and genuine love of tourists, this exciting city is at the top of many traveler's "must see" lists. 

This compact city is the capital of the Netherlands.  Albeit small, Amsterdam is bursting with green spaces, an unforgettable city centre and romantic canals that wind through impressive neighborhoods.  Visit the world famous museums and art galleries.  Take an afternoon stroll along the canal lined streets and do a bit of shopping.  End your day with some Dutch cuisine at one of the many fabulous cafes and watering holes. 

After spending time in the city, some adventurous travelers might want to venture outside of the metro area.  Less than 30 minutes away tourists can find beaches, lakes and dunes.  This is also the site of the more well known landmarks like the windmills and flower fields.

Don't forget to take some time to admire the amazing architecture and design.  Amsterdam is known for its gables and exquisite canal houses.  With more than 1200 bridges crossing the numerous waterways and canals, travelers could spend days just visiting some of the more impressive bridges.  Want a more serene environment?  Check out the historical country gardens and estates.  If modern art draws your attention, visit the Amsterdam School, home of cutting edge modern art and design. 

With all there is to do in this busy city, where to stay can be overwhelming.  Some top notch hotels are available to treat you to the luxury you deserve.  Hotel Pulitzer overlooks the famous canals and is in the heart of the city centre.  Stay here and enjoy the old world style and modern amenities it has to offer.  If you crave something with a bit more history, check out the Sofitel Amsterdam.  This exclusive hotel has been a convent and a city hall.  It now is a grand hotel with elegant rooms and the acclaimed Bridges restaurant.  Our collection of the best hotels in Amsterdam includes a couple other properties.

With so much to offer and such a small area to tour, Amsterdam is an impressive travel destination.  The locals will welcome you with open arms and make you feel at home with their easy spirit.  Visit Amsterdam and realize there is more to this city than windmills and wooden shoes. 

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Best hotel pools

Hotels and resorts all over the world are going above and beyond to capture the imagination of their guests.  The experience that they provide needs to be remarkable inside, but it also extends to the property's overall grounds and especially to the pools.  Some pools are exotic, others are just enormous and still there are pools that are almost too good to be true. 
The Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables, right in our backyard, is home to the largest hotel swimming pool in the continental US.  This colossal pool holds 700,000 gallons of water and is 23,000 square feet.  The Biltmore has a Mediterranean feel inside that spills outside to the area surrounding the pool.  With 10 poolside cabanas near the water and 6 large roman statues overseeing this oasis, you'll feel like you're in paradise. 
Hawaii's Big Island is home to the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.  This resort offers a wide variety of elaborate pools from the free-form family pool to the hedonistic pool with a swim up bar.  But nothing can compare to what is called the King's Pond.  This 1.8 million gallon "pond" is home to more than 3,000 tropical fish.  Carved out of the lava rock, this open air pool/aquarium is definitely unique.  Feed a spotted eagle ray or swim with a parrot fish, with 75-plus species calling this pond home it's an opportunity of a lifetime. 

The Hotel Cipriani presents its guests with an impressive Olympic-sized pool nestled in the crowded city of Venice, Italy.  This hotel is located on the peaceful island of Giudecca which is a short boat ride from the bustling city of San Marcos. This pool is positioned to give its visitors impeccable views with a cozy feel.  Potted plants line the water's edge and vast green lawns awaken images of the countryside.  Enjoy dinner poolside in July during the Redentore festival and watch the fireworks.  This is privacy and extravagance in Venice. 

St. Regis Princeville situated in Kauai, Hawaii has an infinity pool that rivals other resorts.  This 5,000 square foot pool is beach side with views of the Hanalei Bay and waterfalls that spill from the sides of the mountain range.  Newly renovated just 3 years ago, the service by the pool is almost as memorable as the view.  Open 24 hours a day, this pool can be enjoyed during the sun filled Hawaiian days or the stunning star filled nights. 

The Montage Resort and Spa is an exclusive resort located in Laguna Beach, California.  Showcasing the only commercial pool in the state with an ornate bottom, this infinity pool has over 100,000 one foot tiles.  In a sunburst and wave design, this pool can hold it's own against the stunning beach and rock formations.  Tucked into the lush gardens and tasteful cabanas, this pool is a masterpiece.

Oberoi Udaivilas is a picture perfect luxury hotel with a picture perfect pool.  Located in Rajasthan, this pool beckons during the short boat ride across Lake Pichola.  The pool literally surrounds the resort.  Choose a suite for your stay and go for a semi-private swim.  Check out the spa that also exhibits its own lakeside pool.  This resort is a mirage during India's hottest days.

Discovering a hotel that possesses all the qualities you are looking for when you travel is fantastic. Discovering one that is all that and has an amazing pool is well, just amazing! 

Monday, August 27, 2012

Best hotels French Riviera


It's August, and in France that is synonymous with vacation, or what the locals call holiday.  Holiday is the time of year that the French like to get away from it all and head to the Riviera, or Cote d'Azur.  The picturesque beaches line the heart-stopping coast of the Mediterranean and tempt not only the French, but people all over the world. Located in the southeast corner of France and including the principality of Monaco, this retreat is one of the very first modern resort areas.  At What A Hotel! we offer an assortment of luxurious French Riviera hotels that will make you feel like a celebrity when you book one through us.

Starting in Nice, the capital of the French Riviera, the selection of hotels is numerous.  These 2 hotels are just a few to choose from in spectacular Nice.  Palais De Le Mediterranee is a landmark in looking over the Bay of Angels.  Newly opened in 2004, this hotel is a blend of contemporary ideas and 1930's style.  Hotel La Perouse is another fabulous hotel located in the heart of Nice.  With a fabulous view of the English Walkway and the Bay of Angels, this hotel offers an unforgettable stay on the Mediterranean.  The restaurant presents Provencal cuisine while you dine al fresco.   

Next we head to Cannes, where the rich and famous bask in the splendor of the Riviera. Intercontinental Carlton Cannes was built in 1911 and is located on the legendary La Croisette Boulevard and faces the Mediterranean Sea.  With views of the Bay of Cannes, this extraordinary hotel boasts 2 restaurants, 2 bars, 10 meeting rooms and an exclusive beach.  Close to the fashionable shopping district and the spectacular Cannes Palais des Festivals, this hotel is first-class in every way.  Hotel Martinez has secured itself over the decades as the flagship hotel of the Riviera.  Overlooking the Mediterranean, this 7 floor, 409 room hotel is extravagant and  expansive.  Located on the boulevard de La Croisette, it's close to everything Cannes has to offer.  With 3 restaurants, a piano bar, heated pool and a secluded beach, this grand hotel emanates beauty and elegance. 

Last but never least, is spectacular Monaco.  Known for its prestigious casinos, impressive skyline and the fast cars of the Grand Prix, this principality is beautiful and awe inspiring.  Monte Carlo, a district in Monaco, is home to many marvelous landmarks and hotels and these are two celebrated choices.  The Monte Carlo Bay sits on a 10 acre peninsula offering panoramic views of Monaco and the Mediterranean.  Sample the savory menu at one of the 3 new restaurants, schedule a day at the spa in one of the 12 treatment rooms, or try your luck at the casino.  Just don't forget to dance the night away in world renowned Jimmy'z nightclub.  Luxury awaits by the sea.  Hotel Hermitage has been granted the honor of being named a historical monument.  Built at the turn of the century, this hotel is perched above the port in Monte Carlo and offers stunning views form its verandas.  Known for its carefree elegance, this hotel offers a 4 story spa to relax the senses.  Stretch out on a chaise or have a cocktail in a cabana.  Don't forget to tempt your taste buds at one of the 4 restaurants and bars.  Where trendy meets traditional, this hotel emanates the spirit of Monaco. 

At What A Hotel! the offerings  and perks for our hotels are plentiful.  Are you enchanted by the thought of visiting the French Riviera and lounging by the sea?  The French Riviera is beckoning, will you answer the call?


Friday, August 24, 2012

Best Hotels, Washington D.C.

Want to experience a place where culture, history, art and style merge together?  Look no further than Washington DC.  This famous location offers a historical and patriotic adventure with a number of museums, parks and monuments.  Add to that the stunning neighborhood in Georgetown where you can do a bit of boutique shopping and end your day with some memorable dining at one of the many renowned restaurants .  Check out the some of the best hotels in Washington DC.
Four Seasons Hotel Washington DC : This hotel situated in prestigious Georgetown, is an example of flawless hospitality. And because of our designation as a Four Seasons Preferred Partner, bookings through our site will result in Exclusive Complimentary Perks to enhance the value of your stay.  Eat at one of the fine restaurants located on the property, or visit the lounge for a cocktail.  Need to relax after a long day of sightseeing?  Visit the spa for a massage or other spa services. Four Season's spas are known for their quality and excellence. Let's not forget the luxurious pool either, located indoors for year-round use.


Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC 
Located within walking distance to the nation's most beloved monuments and attractions, this hotel exudes  elegance and style.  Ranked by Institutional Investor Magazine as one of the top 100 hotels in the world, the interior is a blend of Asian beauty and traditional spirit.  Visit the spa for a taste of the orient with holistic therapy for the body, mind and spirit.  Dine at the stylish restaurants and delight your taste buds.  Unwind with sophistication at this top notch hotel.

The Fairmont Washington DC 
Nestled in the fashionable West End and adjacent to historic Georgetown, this Washington DC hotel welcomes its guests in style.  This 415 room hotel is an urban oasis.  Relax in the indoor pool or outside in the serene garden. Discerning travelers will enjoy the Fairmont Gold floor, a luxurious exclusive lifestyle hotel experience. Guests will savor a private check-in and attentive, personalized service when staying on the Washington Gold Floor.  This 4-diamond hotel, known for its distinguished service, will draw you back again.

Park Hyatt Washington DC
Find a sophisticated sanctuary in Washington’s fashionable West End Georgetown neighborhood within this elite Washington DC luxury hotel. Just steps from boutique shopping and minutes to the White House and other historic sites, the striking Tony Chi-designed Park Hyatt Washington offers discriminating traveler's exceptional accommodations blending contemporary decor with touches of the American spirit, and authentic folk art in the public areas.

St. Regis Hotel, Washington DC
This hotel is an icon of restored elegance where glamour meets tradition. Located just two blocks north of the White House the gracefully re imagined St. Regis Washington, D.C. is the hotel of choice for royalty, presidents, and prime ministers in the nation's capital.  Since President Coolidge cut the ceremonial grand opening ribbon, every American president has visited this exemplary residence. The signature St. Regis Butlers offer bespoke assistance to Suite guests, combining classic luxury with contemporary needs.

The Hay Adams
Located across from The White House, this historic hotel is a boutique suite hotel.  The Hay Adams offers their guests the city's most prestigious address and view of The White House, Lafayette Square and the famous St. John's Church.  Just minutes from some of the most visited sites, this 142 room hotel impressive.  The Hay-Adams is a Washington DC hotel that has a long-standing reputation as a destination for power dining among Washington's elite, as well as a favorite gathering place for visitors, friends and colleagues. Recognized as one of the city's top choices for fine dining and entertainment, The Hay-Adams’ Washington, DC restaurants deliver superb cuisine and attentive service in a stately setting.

The Jefferson
The Jefferson has long been known as Washington, D.C.'s most discerning hotel, catering to the world's elite travelers. It enjoys a prestigious location at 16th and M Streets just four blocks from the White House and within a short walk of the sites.  The European ambiance of its 99 guest room is breathtaking and has enjoyed the spotlight many times for its dining and amenities. Visit the spa for some relaxation to top off your unforgettable stay. 

There is something for everyone in the nation's capital.  The museums, monuments, and memorials along with some awe inspiring dining and shopping make this location an extraordinary travel destination.  Select a hotel with perks that will satisfy your need to explore the history and style of Washington DC. 

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Best Hotels in Capri

While perusing the online travel news, I find an article that grabs my attention.  Travel + Leisure has a section showcasing famous people's favorite places to travel and I find the tag line, Fashionable Capri.  I am captivated by what seems like the little island's ability to merge fashion and rustic appeal.  Located in the Bay of Naples, this Italian wonder is considered a must-see when visiting the Mediterranean.  At What A Hotel! we offer a selection of hotels that will make the trip enchanting.

Capri Palace Hotel & Spa 
Built at the foot of Mount Solaro, the Capri Palace offers picturesque views of the Gulf of Naples and the Ischia Island.  In 2001, after a restyle, the palace became part of The Leading Small Hotels of the World.  With its stone floors and classic Mediterranean design, every element of this hotel and spa is stunning and glamorous.  Each room touts understated elegance and some even have their own private garden and swimming pool.   

Capri Tiberio Palace
This fabulous hotel showcases Regency style and Mediterranean architecture.  Large terraces and aromatic gardens add charm and serenity to the hotels grounds.  This 60 room hotel carefully perfects all the details so that relaxation is easy.  Antique materials merged with contemporary design make the view inside almost as stunning as the view outside.  Book with What A Hotel! and enjoy a breakfast buffet in the morning and a candlelight dinner at night. 
After reading the Travel + Leisure article, I was immediately drawn to this small island.  What is not to love about a place that has hiking, adventure, amazing food and fabulous fashion?  I can't find a thing that wouldn't make you want to visit Capri, this little paradise by the sea.



Wednesday, August 22, 2012

San Diego Best Hotels


The foliage is changing and a chill begins to permeate the air. Maybe not here in Coral Gables where I'm writing this from but in certain places. This signals that fall is around the corner, a special time of year that for some reason makes people feel like taking a journey. Watch nature end the long hot summer days and start the transition into the frozen sleep of winter.  America’s Best Cities for Fall Travel by Travel & Leisure magazine, points us in the right direction, giving us a plethora of destinations to spend our shortened days.  Number 7 on their list caught my attention almost immediately because I'll soon be traveling there; San Diego, California. 

At What A Hotel!, we will give you a few ideas of remarkable places to stay while you visit this fantastic fall getaway. 

The Grand Del Mar
This 249 room luxury resort combines old-world charm with modern luxury.  It is tucked into the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve and is has been given the title of one of the “World’s Best Places to Stay” by Conde Nast Traveler.  With its championship golf course, top notch spa, and Southern California’s only Five-Star and Five-Diamond restaurant, this resort is a winner.  Check out the perks available only when booking with us and you'll have a better  vacation.

Four Seasons Aviara Residence Club
Located in North San Diego, this natural sanctuary offers you the feel of a vacation home in the heart of this unique coastal community. Play golf, tennis or enjoy some of the finest dining in the area. Stay "in residence" and indulge in the added perks you would receive by booking with us since we're a Four Seasons Preferred Partner which means we always are positioned to amp-up any booking at any Four Seasons Hotel in the World.  This Spanish colonial-style villa will make you feel like you are at your home away from home.  Welcome to life at its best.

Manchester Grand Hyatt, San Diego
Boasting a spectacular waterfront location, this urban San Diego hotel and resort is a retreat.  Check out the Kin Spa, play tennis or lay by the pool.  This downtown luxury hotel gives you the opportunity to step outside and enjoy the Seaport Village, walk the Gaslamp Quarter, visit the zoo or Sea World or go for a cruise on the Bay.  Discover the adventures of downtown San Diego!

The US Grant
Located in the historic downtown Gaslamp Quarter, this iconic hotel offers contemporary touches with classic style.  Walk to shopping, dining or entertainment; or take a short drive to the beaches, museums and other attractions.  Don’t want to leave this stunning hotel, visit the Art-Deco style grill or lounge and spend an evening dining on contemporary Californian cuisine.  The US Grant offers premier service and a refined ambiance.

W San Diego
Centrally located in downtown San Diego, this hotel is within walking distance of the Gaslamp Quarter, parks, the convention center and Little Italy.  Hop in the car and you can visit the stunning beaches or the famous San Diego Zoo.  Start the evening with drinks at Magnet, or enjoy a romantic dinner at Rice.  Want to enjoy the brilliant skyline views?  Head up to our rooftop Beach bar and warm your toes in the heated sand. But don’t forget, if you need to unwind, schedule some time at Away Spa.  At the W San Diego, you will indulge your senses. 

As we enter fall, why not plan a visit to one of Travel & Leisure’s Best Cities for Fall Travel: San Diego.  With 70 miles of beautiful beaches, and limitless options of how to spend your days, this stunning California city will leave you planning a return visit. 

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Best hotels in Cabo

With Autumn just a month away, the long leisurely days of summer are coming to an end.  Why not spend a bit of those last few days traveling to the tip of the Baja Peninsula to Los Cabos?  Located where the Sea of Cortes meets the Pacific Ocean, this Mexican Paradise is close enough for easy travel, but far enough away to leave your stresses behind. With big game fishing, top notch golf courses, scuba diving and horseback riding; the action packed adventures are limitless.  But if relaxation and rejuvenation are on the agenda, try the luxurious spas, fabulous pools and white sand beaches.  Let's also not forget that you can spend some serious time sampling the mouth watering food and the wide variety of shopping.  Los Cabos area is comprised of two cities, Cabo San Lucas and San Jose Del Cabo.  These cities, along with the 20 miles between them, are the home to fabulous resorts and hotels with so much to offer.  At WhataHotel!, we have great hotels with great perks in a variety of settings. 

Fiesta Americana Grand Los Cabos 
This resort, located in the corridor of Los Cabos, is rated #9 on the Gold Digest Magazine's list of top golf hotels.  All 249 rooms of this hotel and spa are overlooking the Sea of Cortes and lush tropical gardens from their private balconies.  Take pleasure in one of the five swimming pools or unwind on the private secluded beach.  Spend your day swimming up to the pool bar to enjoy festive drinks and end your day with an evening in one of the four restaurants.  With a full service spa and a kids club, taking time to breathe easier should never be a problem. 

The Westin Resort & Spa, Los Cabos 
This hotel, designed to mirror the famous Arch in Cabo San Lucas, is impressive.  Located on the corridor between the two cities, this hotel is nestled into the cliffs and overlooks the Sea of Cortes.  Choose between seven pools or the white sand and surf to wash your worries away.  While at the beach, check out the massage beach cabanas for the ultimate in relaxation.  Spend your nights in the famous Westin Heavenly Bed and you may not ever want to leave.

Zoetry Casa del Mar Los Cabos
Welcomed by spectacular cobblestone pathway and fountain, this hacienda-style boutique resort is one of the finest in the area.  Eliminate stress and anxiety, sleep and personal health issues within your life. In addition to all the fabulous wellness aspects available and to further enhance guest's personal well-being, Zoëtry Casa del Mar is proud to offer a revolutionary approach in achieving optimal health through a combination of innovative techniques and practices. Charles Wills, the founder of "The Wills Wellness System" coaches guests to attain a disciplined regimen to optimize their health and lead more enriching lives. Check out this resort for wellness and relaxation.

While Los Cabos is at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, it feels like it is located in paradise. And our site brings you the best hotels in Cabo so you can make the best choice

Monday, August 20, 2012

Hawaii Best Hotels

When planning a vacation, pristine beaches and a tropical climate are usually on the short list of requirements. How about a visit to Heavenly Hawaii ? 

There are six major islands that make up the Hawaiian Islands; Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and Hawaii Island.  At WhatAHotel! we offer perks at the top luxury resorts at all but Molokai.

Each island offers unique experiences.  Kauai is Hawaii's island of discovery, Oahu is considered the heart of Hawaii, Molokai is the island that is full of wilderness and adventure, Lanai is enticing and tranquil and Hawaii Island is The Big Island and the home of the world's most active volcano.  But there is one island that offers so much, it is hard to not be the favorite.  Maui is considered The Magic Island and has also been voted "Best Island" by Conde Nast readers for not one, but seventeen years.   

When visiting Maui, Four Season's Maui is the number one rated resort by Trip Advisor members.The majority of the rooms and suites have unforgettable views of The Pacific from their private lanai.  All accommodations feature luxury and technology to fulfill all of your needs.  Flat screen televisions, iHome docking stations and high-speed Internet are just a few amenities to keep tech savvy visitors happy, while the deep-soaking marble tub, glass showers and special commissioned artwork make the rooms luxurious.  Enjoy the morning coffee and tea service provided daily, then venture out to a cabana by the ocean.  Traveling with the kids?  Check out the full-day Kids For All Seasons program.  That way the kids can have a blast and you can truly relax.  Dine at one of the three fabulous restaurants on site or visit the spa and let yourself go.  You'll have a hard time leaving here at the end of your trip.

Grand Wailea, Waldorf Astoria  just steps from the beach, gives you numerous options of how to spend your day.  Relax on the beach or by the pool, visit the spa for a massage or treatment, or tee off at the championship golf course.  With 6 restaurants to choose from, being hungry is not an option.  This elegant island hotel provides relaxation and adventure. 

Whether you visit Maui or one of the other Hawaiian islands, the choices of how to spend your time is endless.  Choose whale watching, golfing, canoeing, scuba diving or just laying-out on the beach.  The beautiful weather and friendly Aloha culture will have you yearning to visit year after year. 

Friday, August 17, 2012

Shark Week shines spotlight on South Africa

Shark Week on the Discovery Channel is almost over but the fascination with sharks will continue on.  Some sharks are mysterious and dangerous but also graceful and magnificent creatures.

One of the intriguing things that occurred to me while watching is that some sharks are lucky because they get to live in some of the most amazing places in the world. 

One of the top destinations that The Discovery Channel takes us to see the most amazing sharks is South Africa.  This exotic locale is full of so much to do, visiting the beaches is not the only option.

By simply searching for South Africa at WhataHotel.com, you come up with so many options of places to stay that it will be difficult to make a decision.  Game Reserves,  National Parks, safari, spa, beaches and luxury all await when visiting South Africa. 

Mount Nelson Hotel
This Orient Express Hotel is located in well known Cape Town, surrounded by lush gardens, vibrant city life and some of the best beaches in the area.  This hotel offers perks for business or leisure, honeymoon or family vacations.  You can't go wrong here with amazing dining and afternoon tea.  With six wings to choose from, your stay is bound to be perfect. 

12 Apostles Hotel and Spa
Want to travel to South Africa to truly relax?  This spa sits on the side of majestic mountains and touts that is reaches toward the heavens.  Mountains on one side and a view of the Atlantic on the other side, you can't find a place that the view won't make your heart beat a little faster.  Spend the day watching whales and dolphins, or walk the trails of the Table Mountain National Park.  Visit Cape Town to shop and enjoy the night life, just a few minutes away.  As if this weren't enough to keep your interest, you could visit Cape Winelands to visit one of the area's leading vineyards. 

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
If traveling to South Africa makes you want adventure, you can't go wrong with the game reserves.  This 54,400 acre reserve is home to thousands of animals.  Buffalo, elephants, lions and cheetahs call this reserve home, along with rhino and some of South Africa's most rare and vulnerable birds.  Visit Kwandwe for special perks that will make the adventure even more unforgettable.  This can be a sanctuary for not only the animals, but the traveler as well.

The Westcliff Hotel
Travel to Johannesburg South Africa and get away from it all.  The Westcliff is situated on a hillside in Johannesburg's most exclusive suburb.  With an abundance of perks, this hotel offers a trip you can't forget.  Dine on exceptional cuisine or enjoy an afternoon tea, but don't forget to spend the day lounging around the stunning pools situated high above the city.  Food, wine and relaxation await you at The Westcliff.   

These are just a few options to chose from, Whatatahotel!  offers perks for many additional hotels.  Look through all of them and start planning your vacation of a lifetime in South Africa.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Rio de Janeiro 2016 Summer Olympics

It's hard to believe that the much anticipated 2012 Summer Olympic Games have come and gone.  The ceremonies, the athletes and the amazing stories of perseverance and determination kept us riveted to our TV and computer screens for two weeks.  London was in the spotlight, showcasing its beautiful architecture, landscape and hospitality.  Basking in the afterglow of an amazing Olympic Games, it's easy to look at this destination and want to travel.

As fabulous as London was with the amazing cityscape and unforgettable destinations, it's hard to not get a little bit excited about the 2016 Olympic Summer Games in fabulous Rio de Janeiro!!  Rio is known for their unforgettable carnivals, unspoiled beaches,  awe-inspiring landscape, mouth watering food and a rather large Art Deco statue of Christ atop Corcovado Mountain.  With so much to do and so much to see, there are a few hotels that you could stay if you wanted to see Rio well befire he Olympics.

Caesar Park Rio de Janeiro - Ipanema
With the beaches being a main reason to embark to Rio, Ipanema Beach is a must see.  This beachfront gem has attributes perks that will make it hard to resist.  Sit on the beach in a lounge chair and enjoy fresh fruit or stay in your room and enjoy your view of the sea.  It also has one of the city's finest Italian restaurants on the premises and is within walking distance to boutiques and restaurants. 

Copacabana Palace Hotel
If you visit Rio, a stay at The Copacabana Palace Hotel on Copacabana beach seems like a must.  This star studded iconic hotel has been visited by stars and royalty.  With the many perks that WhataHotel! offers, you are sure to feel like both during your visit.  Spend your day on Copacabana beach or by their magnificent swimming pool.  Either way, your stay will be memorable. 

Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro
Want to stay in the heart of the famous Ipanema beach but also be within walking distance to the most charming neighborhood in Rio?  You can't go wrong with the Hotel Fasano!  As if location weren't enough to make this site unbeatable, our site's added perks make it hard to resist.  Take a stroll to the roof and lounge by the rooftop swimming pool while overlooking the amazing beach and listening to the surf. 

Although it might be a tough decision on where to stay, traveling now would give you an opportunity to see the city before the hustle and bustle of the 2016 Olympic Games.  If you go now, you're bound to fall in love with this amazing city, and you might just want to return again during the celebration in 2016.  Either way, you can't go wrong visiting the stunning Rio!