ClubHotel Riu Ocho Rios: Seriously, this is one fabulous Jamaica hotel. Right on the beach of Mammee Bay in Ocho Rios, the ClubHotel is surrounded by woodlands and waterfalls. It offers the perfect mix of total relaxation and endless activities. The hotel is very close to Dolphin Cove, where a guide will take you to swim with dolphins (or even sharks!) and the Dunn’s River Fall, one of the most beautiful in the world is perfect for a day trip.
Best on a budget
Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort & Spa, Ocho Rios: Diving, waterfalls, plunge pools, powder soft sandy beaches, is that your idea of a good time? Then the Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort and Spa is just the ticket. This all inclusive 730 room palace has plenty of restaurants, bars, kids club and boutiques, all in the beautiful, Caribbean surrounds that Jamaica is famous for.
Great huts: If you’re feeling a little adventurous about your holiday, how about a night away in a hut or a tree house? Yes, we did say hut, but don’t let that put you off. These Great Huts are off the beaten track luxury accommodations, with stunning cliff side views and hammocks everywhere. Choose from the different amazing structures on offer, you can even stay in the Queen of Sheba hut! We’re sure it’s fit for a queen.
Total relaxation
Gran Bahia Principe Jamaica: A Victorian style hotel, right on the beach, you can go from bed to beach in just seconds. Here it’s all about complete relaxation in the sunshine. The 840 room hotel has a spa, excellent restaurants and on top of the white, sandy beach there are three interlinked pools to swim in, countless loungers, beach umbrellas and towel service. Everything is looked after at the Gran Bahia Principe.
The Sandals Montego Bay: is surrounded by a tropical setting and right on a white sand beach, offering a slice of heaven for your holidays. Here, guests can experience the true Caribbean spirit and chill out all day long, tasting mouthwatering cocktails.
Perfect for kids
Breezes Trelawny Resort & Spa, Falmouth: This gorgeous hotel is really a sight for sore eyes. With four (count ‘em!) swimming pools to choose from, two water slides and that absolutely perfect, white sand and stunning blue waters that Jamaica is famous for, it’s a hotel that’s really close to our hearts. It’s just a couple of miles from the centre of Falmouth where you’ll find a mix of history and shopping, restaurants and bars. You couldn’t ask for more!
From the sublime to the ridiculous, we collect the best in weird and wonderful hotels every week for our series called A Night Less Ordinary. From sleeping underwater to spending a night in a silvermine suite, expect the unexpected. This week it’s the Hamster Hotel.
What’s the gimmick? If you spend your time daydreaming about living like a hamster, then never fear! A clever group in Nantes, France has opened La Villa Hamster, to offer you this weird, but certainly unique experience.
Why stay? “We wanted to create an eccentric hotel, so we decided that the funniest would be an animal-themed accommodation”, said Yann Falquerho and Frédéric Tabary, the guys behind the idea. La Villa Hamster has all the amenities needed for larger than life hamsters, from a huge (romantic) running wheel made just for two, a metal water tap, and a bathroom which is simply a large bowl of wood chips. There is one concession to human comfort in the form of a double bed, accessible only by stairs.
The WOW factor! For the ultimate experienceguests are given hamster masks during their stay. The cost for an overnight in this bizarre hotel is around €150.
We go around the world to find the most beautiful, weird and wonderful hotels for A Night Less Ordinary. From igloo-style hotels to converted prisons, expect the unexpected. This week, prepare for a cuteness overload with the Panda Hotel in Sichuan-China.
What’s the gimmick? C’mon, admit it, who isn’t convinced that pandas are the cutest thing on earth? Here at Purple Travel we are big fans, so we wanted to share this amazing Panda Hotel with you. In Sichuan in China, it’s packed to the brim with all things cute, furry and panda related. Scheduled to open in May 2013 we can’t to go.
Why stay? Located at the foot of Mount Emei, this first panda themed hotel in the world aims to help its guests return to nature and find the simple and true meaning of life; and also guarantees a memorable stay. One room has a panda version of the famous Titanic scene when Kate Winslet was standing in front Leonardo DiCaprio on the bow of the ship.
The WOW Factor?Every room in the Panda Hotel is an absolute panda-monium as all of them include panda pictures, cuddly panda toys and furniture with patterns of the cute animal. What’s more, it’s reported that employees dress up like the eucalyptus eating bears so guests can have a real-live panda experience.
The hotel has room rates that range from US$48 to $80 per night.
We’re all about the Algarve, specifically the lovely seaside town of Albufeira. It’s got the Old Town that’s perfect for long lazy strolls in the sunshine. Over the hill you’ll find The Strip, packed with neon bars and all night parties. It really offers the best of both worlds.
So if you’re stuck for a place to stay, here’s our top 5 hotels in Albufeira.
Family friendly: The Paraiso de Albufeira Hotel Apartments have practically every facility you could think of, from one bedroom apartments to duplexes. The MGE restaurant and pool side snack bar are great for keeping little ones topped up, while the multi use court for basketball or football, mini golf course and video game room will keep even the moodiest teenager busy. That’s before you even get to the pool, nearby beach or the selection of water parks you’ll find around.
As purveyors of “cool,” we at PortugalConfidential.com think we know a thing or two about what’s hip, contemporary and unique in the realms of gastronomy, style and travel. So, we were up for the challenge when Turismo Central de Portugal suggested we take a road trip to discover some of the cool and unique hotels across their region. We have to admit, we were pleasantly surprised and delighted.
Central Portugal is the area north of the capital city of Lisbon, but south of the second largest city Porto, with the Atlantic Ocean on the west and the Spanish border to the right. Historic hilltop villages dot the landscape, while city-life can be found in Viseu, Guarda, Coimbra and Aveiro. The region epitomises the perfect blending of laid-back traditional Portugal lifestyle with that of 21st century design and amenities. A fine example of this aesthetic can be found in these Seven Cool & Unique Hotels of Central Portugal.
Passado de Pedra is a small rural hotel in the centre of the eastern village of Caria. The early 19th century home was recently transformed into 6 guest units. One bedroom is in a former wine press room; a small apartment is now in the old stable. The main house has four more rooms which can be rented separately or configured for groups and families. Ask owner Graça for a walking tour of Caria, a village rich in Portuguese, Moorish and Jewish history.
Imagine a medieval village transformed into a boutique hotel. Former village houses are left intact on the exterior, but renovated for 21st century guests on the inside. At Casas do Coro in Marialva, the feel is rustic, but the accommodations are modern, the amenities are luxurious and the service is exemplary. Select from individual rooms or multi-bedroom houses at this chic hotel.
Sitting on top of one the highest peaks in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, Casa das Penhas Douradas is a high-altitude nature retreat as well as a design hotel. Mid-century modern elements are reinterpreted in the decor, with birch the predominant material in furniture and cabinetry, while traditional Burel wool fabric, manufactured in a factory down the hill, adds softness and warmth. Outside, numerous mountain trails offer amazing views of unique rock formations and the valley below. Inside, relax by the fire in the guest lounge or slip into a sauna in the hotel’s spa.
Casa de Sé is a small luxury hotel in the centre of historic Viseu. This sumptuously renovated 18th century building has 12 rooms, each uniquely decorated with antique furniture and decorative objects. Should guests fall in love with a particular item, everything is for sale. At Casa de Sé, history, art and luxury cohabitate in harmony.
Aveiro is often called the “Venice of Portugal” for its canals winding through the city centre. “Moliceiro” is the name given to the ornately-decorated “gondolas”. With a romantic view to these canals is the boutique Hotel Moliceiro. 49 rooms are available, but we recommend asking for one of the distinctive theme rooms ranging from Chanel, Provence and Lavender to Manhattan, Cosmopolitan and Marrakesh. Our favourite is the Oriental room with long private terrace.
Villa Pedra Natural Houses, just south of Coimbra, is quiet old-world Portuguese village life completely redefined for the 21st century. The hilltop village of Aldeia da Cima was literally abandoned for 70 years, until recently discovered by a Lisbon-based designer and architect team. They gave new life to the village by constructing modern, artfully-designed houses set amongst richly landscaped gardens, pool and even an aviary. Villa Pedra is perfect for short- or long-term escapes.
Think trendy urban boutique hotel snatched-up from the big city and placed perfectly on a large sandy beach in Portugal, and you’ve got Furadouro Hotel & Spa in Ovar. This modern hotel of 27 rooms features a gourmet restaurant and large full-service spa. But, of course, the best amenities are the view to the ocean and the sound of waves crashing to the beach.
In this weekly series, we scour the world in search of the most weird and wonderful hotels. From cave hotels to converted prisons, capsule pods to underwater guestrooms, you can expect only the unexpected. This week, enjoy a Night Less Ordinary Roar and Snore in Sydney, where you sleep in a zoo.
What’s the gimmick? Fancy waking up next to a lion? At Roar and Snore in Sydney’s Taronga Zoo, guests can do just that. Find yourself sleeping in one of the architecturally designed tents, with views of the Sydney harbour to one side and lions, snow leopards and meerkats on the other.
Why stay? For animal enthusiasts, it doesn’t get much better than waking up to the roar of a lion or an elephant trumpeting as you prepare to experience the Zoo before the crowds. Feed a giraffe or pat a seal as you go behind the scenes to learn the secrets of this famous and fascinating Zoo. And if that wasn’t enough, experience sunrise at one of the world’s most famous views from one of the best possible positions to see it.
The Wow Factor: Your incredible overnight Zoo experience begins with refreshments on arrival, followed by an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the Zoo’s most friendly creatures. After a buffet dinner you hike through the zoo on a night zoo safari led by a zoo educator, where you can see the animals relax after their daylight duties. Then settle in for the night in a cosy, fully-furnished tent.
Price includes guided night Zoo Safari, tent accommodation, dinner, refreshments, breakfast, two back of house tours and admission to the zoo the following day. Prices start from $436.50AUD for one adult and one child. Click here for details.
In Dubrovnik, there is nothing better than long, lazy days lounging in the sunshine, strolling around the Old City Walls, enjoying a gelato or a cool beer or tucking into some amazing fresh seafood. You’ve already read all about what to do in Dubrovnik, now we fill you in on the best hotels in this gorgeous city.
Affordable Luxury: Grand Hotel Park. The design hotel is in a great location right in the heart of the city and has lots going for it. Surrounded by vibrant gardens and with lovely views of the Lapad Cove Promenade and of course the sparkling ocean, the Grand is a mix of Italian design and Croatian hospitality. We definitely like the look of the Taverna Marikin Dvorac which specialises in fresh fish and grilled meats. Vegetarians steer clear!
Rock the Kazbek: The Kazbek. This one really deserves its spot on the 10 best hotels in Dubrovnik list. It started as a castle, built in 1573 by noblemen so you know you’re in for a bit of luxury here. Fully renovated to its former glory, this boutique hotel has just 12 beautifully designed rooms, a restaurant with courtyard and balcony terrace and even boasts a library. You can literally become king or queen of the castle by renting out the whole property for something really special.
Bed to beach and back again: Komodor Hotel. This 3* is a great example of the famous old Dubrovnik architecture. This small hotel has a cosy atmosphere and offers the simple pleasures to make your stay unforgettable. And just minutes from the water, you can go from bed to beach in no time.
Water baby heaven: Orphee Hotel. Right in the middle of lush gardens and woodlands, so it offers that real get-away-from-it-all experience. It’s just a few miles from Dubrovnik, the pools are just what the doctor ordered; while the PADI approved dive school on the beach means you can learn a thing or two while you’re there too.
Naturally beautiful: Valamar Lacroma. Archinature, yes that might just be a made up word, but there’s no better way to describe this secluded hotel. Combining the natural environment and lush greenery of the Croatian countryside, with mesmerising style and architecture the Valamar Lacroma is a dream to stay in.
Unforgettable views: Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik. In a truly fabulous location, just minutes from the Old Town, this is the place to go for breathtaking views overlooking the ancient city walls and the gleaming Adriatic. Although it was renovated recently, it has that lovely old world feel and plenty of original architectural features.
A regal choice: Hotel Excelsior. Well if money was no object this would definitely be one of our faves. It’s literally where royalty go to holiday. Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Margaret, King Olaf have all stayed in this pristine hotel as well as super celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Hey, if it’s good enough for them, we wouldn’t mind it!
Family run fun: Berkeley Hotel. A really family friendly, family run hotel, the Berkeley is ideal for a relaxed summer get away. Run by the Vicelic family since 2007 who offer the warmest of welcomes, a really great breakfast and lots of insider knowledge on where to go during your stay.
Cosy cottage: Vesna’s Cottage. We absolutely fell in love with Vesna’s Cottage. From the lush gardens that surround it, to the blue timber ceilings, Vesna’s is so laidback it’s horizontal. The brightly coloured walls will make you smile and kids will love the feeling of countryside right in the city.
Feeling flush: Hotel Pucić Palace. Now this one is for the serious luxury hunter. The 5* boutique hotel is right in the middle of the city and prides itself on its exclusive feel. It’s got ancient stone walls and parquet floors which combine with all the modern stuff you need – in room DVD and CD players. It’s even got a yacht for hire! If that doesn’t impress in your holiday snaps, nothing will.
If you fancy a stay in one of the best hotels in Dubrovnik, call Purple Travel now on 02079939228.
In this weekly series, we scour the world in search of the most weird and wonderful hotels. From cave hotels to converted prisons, capsule pods to underwater guestrooms, you can expect only the unexpected. This week, enjoy a night less ordinary at the Dog Bark Inn.
What’s the gimmick? Bringing a whole new meaning to the term doggy style, Dog Bark Park Inn in Cottonwood, Idaho, is a bed and breakfast guesthouse inside the world’s biggest beagle. Dog-lovers can take their obsession to new heights (literally), entering the body of the giant toy dog (who’s affectionately named, Sweet Willy) from a private second story deck. Once inside, you can head up another level to the head of the dog, where you’ll find a cosy loft room decorated with dog decorations, offering additional sleeping space (Willy sleeps four in total). The bathroom, which is disguised as a giant fire hydrant, is located beneath the tail.
Why stay? Even if you hate dogs, or this idea freaks you out a bit, at Dog Bark Park, you are the only tenant, the beds are unbelievably comfortable and the loft is tailor-made for a restful night’s sleep. As the wind blows across the prairie at night, making the dog ears flap, you’ll wonder why you’ve not been sleeping in a beagle your whole life. And that’s not all – the well-stocked fridge, doggy biscuits and breakfast are all home-cooked and excellent. This is seriously one of the best experiences America has to offer.
Dog Bark Park Inn gift shop
The wow factor: Some of the dog’s decorative furnishings are carvings by Dog Bark Park Inn resident chainsaw artists Dennis & Frances.Dennis J. Sullivan, a self-taught chainsaw artist, has been carving for over twenty years. Frances joined him fifteen years ago and in 1995, their carvings were sold on QVC television (aka the home of useless crap). They did nothing but carve wooden dogs for 18 months then invested all their earnings in developing and building Dog Bark Park, where visitors most likely will find them happily creating art.
The cost per double stay is $92 and then $8 for each additional guest. Book here
Upon arriving at Cuba, Christopher Columbus remarked that it was “the most beautiful country human eyes have ever seen.” Yet for tourists, the country is a land of continuous confusion; its economy is struggling at best, yet its cultural history is rich and diverse; its landscape is filled with relic and dust, but its architecture is indisputably magnificent; it is considered dangerous and even saddening, yet at the same time, utterly compelling, like the moment when you pass by a car crash and cannot help but slow down to take a closer look. You may even say that these mysteries and parallels are what make Cuba an attractive destination choice. They map out its troubled history like wrinkles on an aged face – a product of years of genocide, slavery, invasion, counter-invasion and revolution – adding both a character and a melancholic beauty.
The words ‘Cuba’ and ‘politics’ have gone hand in hand for more than half a century now, headed by Fidel Castro and his communist regime. However, unlike the grey, barren dystopia of archetypal communist countries, Cuba is an exuberant, romantic milieu, where art, music, literature and creativity are the dish of the day. The Cubans themselves are a nation of artists; from doers to dreamers, sceptics to sages, poets to philosophers. To put things into perspective, here is a review from one of our customers:
“We visited (Cuba) some 18 years ago, and the most attractive and memorable aspect was the pride our guides had in their country and the things they were showing us. A simple doctor’s surgery was described as cutting edge, a somewhat decrepit university as the equivalent of Oxford, and so on. That aspect was enchanting, as they obviously had so little yet treasured what they had.”
The Cubans have shaped their country into the captivating, impenetrable, paradoxical nation it is. However with tourism on the rise, and therefore a huge injection of capitalism pumping through Cuba’s socialist veins, now is the time to travel to this unique country, before its beauty fades into an increasingly globalized world. And if you need some inspiration? We’ve created this Cuba travel guide to ensure your holiday is the best it can be:
Food Cuba is inhabited mainly by people of African and Spanish origin, which is reflected in the cuisine. Food in Cuba is therefore unlike the rest of the Caribbean, relying heavily on onions and garlic for its flavourings, rather than spices. To find delicious food, head to the casas, rather than the restaurants, which can be somewhat hit and miss and where service is generally quite poor. The real adventure however, is eating at peso places (the national money), which serve the cheapest and most interesting food around. A meal for three people with beers will only cost around $4. Just look for a line of Cubans and jump in it – there’s sure to be something delicious at the end.
Places to go Havana Cuba’s sultry capital is one of the finest examples of a Spanish Colonial city in the Americas. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, Havana was once one of world’s most beautiful areas, but as the city deteriorates and tourism influxes, the city is in a state of change; now, behind the crumbling colonial façades, are hidden boutique hotels, cocktail bars and fine dining eateries. Head for Old Havana to explore the original churches and reconstructed mansions, or to Malecon road for a lively meeting place. or try one of these fantastic new restaurants for a slice of modern Havanan culture:
Atelier: ForCaribbean and European dishes; Good for groups and well-priced. Café Laurent: Spanish cuisine with other European influences; the speciality is seafood. Doña Eutimia: Traditional Cuban food; one of the specialities is the classic ropa vieja (pulled beef in a tomato sauce). About £15 for two. San Cristóbal: Cuban and international cuisine; pork in mustard sauce is a speciality.
Guardelavaca Thepeaceful region of Guardalavaca is home to some of Cuba’s most idyllic, powdery beaches. Crystal clear waters, filled with an abundance of marine life, make it a popular destination for snorkelers and divers, while swimming with dolphins is a not-to-be-missed opportunity. Traditionally famous for its sugar production, if you venture away from the beach, you can drive through roads lined with fields of sugar cane plantations. Although its main industry is now tourism, Guardelavaca has retained an authentic Cuban feel and you never feel too overcrowded.
Varadero Varadero is Cuba’s largest beach resort, set on a 12-mile long peninsula of stunning white sandy beaches and clear Caribbean water. Despite being a beach resort, the area is still not as commercialised as many other Caribbean locations. After it was first visited in 1870, Varadero rapidly grew into an exclusive resort for the Havana elite, visited by many celebrities, including Al Capone.
This tourism boom, which has never wavered since, has meant that Varadero is a long way from being the ‘real Cuba’, but for a great beach holiday, this is surely one of the best in the entire Caribbean.
Cayo Coyo
Cayo Coco Cuba is occupied by one of the world’s largest coral reefs – second only to the Great Barrier. Like Varadero, Cayo Coyo is a magnificent beach resort, boasting fifteen miles of virgin beaches and azure seas, perfect for indulging in a spot of Cuban deep sea fishing. If you prefer to stay on dry land, the dramatic mountainous backdrop offers some fantastic hiking or horse riding opportunities, rewarded by spectacular views. If you travel by car through the linking causeway, you can make a stop off at Parador la Silla, about half way across, which is home to hundreds of bright pink flamingos. Hotel-wise, we recommend Playa Coco, a modern, spacious hotel set right on the beach or Tryp Cayo Coco, designed like a traditional Caribbean village. For something even more luxurious, Melia Cayo Coco hotel has everything you could ever want – perfect for honeymoons or romantic couples break.
Trinidad Founded in 1514, Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to an extensive colonial history. Expect to see locals riding on horseback down cobbled streets, past rows of houses painted in pastel pinks, yellows and blues. The renovated elegant mansions of the past are now enchanting museums, whilst original church windows are like works of art.
Santa Clara
Santa Clara is the home of the monument, museum and mausoleum of revolutionary, Ché Guevara, whose body was only returned from Bolivia in 1997, some 30 years after his capture and execution.
Things to do
Jardin Botanico Nacianol, Havana
A well-kept collection of tropical plants that includes poinsettias the size of Christmas trees, hibiscus, bromeliads, coleus and bougainvillea. Open daily.
Museo De La Revolucion, Havana
Refugio 1, between Avenida de las Misiones and Zulueta, Habana Vieja, Havana. To learn a bit about the country’s history, visit the housed in a huge, ornate, dome-topped building which was once the presidential palace. The spirit of the greatest revolutionary of them all, Che Guevara, lives on in posters, statues and murals such as the one on Plaza de la Revolucion.
Partaga Cigar Factory, Havana
Industria 520, Habana Vieja, Havana. A national treasure that hides behind the Capitolio in Havana’s main square, Partagas – formerly the second largest cigar factory in Cuba – is worth a visit.
Muse Nacional de Bellas Artes, Havana Opened in its current location in 1954, the National Museum of Fine Arts 50,000 strong collection of artworks has been divided into two separate buildings: the Cuban art collection (Arte Cubano), and the international collection (Arte Universal). The international collection is a passable survey of world art but the main draw is the building itself.
Call Purple Travel on 0207 993 9228 to find out more about holidays in Cuba.
Purple Travel takes a look at some of the best hotels in Greece: this week we’re looking at the Northern Island of Corfu. We chose these hotels because of their high quality standards of service and the great feedback we get from you – our customer – on any budget.These properties are really something to get excited about, especially with the great prices we have on offer. If you like what you see, take a look at our website to get the holiday from your local airport. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Give our expert travel advisors a ring on 0207 993 9228 and find out more about Corfu hotels Greece now.
Kontokali Bay Resort & Spa, 5*This beachfront hotel has everything you need for the perfect escape. Set just outside of Corfu Town, and right on the beach, you can have your ideal escape without giving up the wonders of Corfu Town just around the corner. A beautifully finished hotel, it has the stunning views of the sea in front and a secluded woodland surrounding.
Customer Rating: 5/5 Restaurants: Beach front restaurant, fish taverna style and buffet style. Bars: Beach bar and piano bar in the lobby. Activities: Tennis Court, horse riding, water sports, Spa centre, hammam, private beach, free wifi. Children: Family rooms, children’s playground.
Louis Kerkyra Golf 4* The Louis Kerkyra Beach all inclusive hotel is the essence of a perfect family holiday. Located right on the beach in Gouves, the hotel has something for everyone. With complete dining, entertainment, and relaxation facilities, you’ll never want to leave!
Customer Rating: 5/5 Restaurants: Greek & International Buffet Restaurant, Main Restaurant, Chinese Restaurant, Lagoon Restaurant Bars: 5 Bars Activities: Entertainment, Varied Sports, Jacuzzi, Tennis, Beach Volleyball, Mini Golf, Watersports Children: Kidzone Mini Clubs, Children’s Entertainment, Waterworld Lagoon, Children’s Pool
Seafront Apartments Kavos Set right at the foot of the Kavos strip, the Seafront Apartments offer the perfect combination of a being in the centre of the lively resort without giving up the peaceful beachfront location. This family-owned, friendly and basic accommodation offers exactly what you need for the perfect Kavos holiday.
Customer Rating: 4/5 Restaurants: Beach Snack Bar Bars: Beach Bar Activities: Water Sports, plus the infamous Kavos Strip is just two minutes walk away.
Jamaica via @ Abir
