The Datai
Langkai, Malaysia

Believe the Hype. Deluxe resort on the island of Langkawi with pristine environs; a private white sandy beach and a lush jungle. Facilities are luxurious; a world-class spa, extensive activities - a fabulous retreat. Rates vary seasonally.

www.ghmhotels.com
datai@ghmhotels.com
+60 4 959 2500

Nine Zero Hotel
Boston, MA

Great location (Ladder district), super ammenities and professionalism. I’ve asked four friends who frequent Boston on biz; they all rate Nine Zero tops. Sophisticated and smart (albeit looks a bit overdesigned) and right at the heart of it all. Rates vary seasonally, please contact hotel for more information.

www.ninezero.com

Condesa DF Hotel
Colonia Condesa, Mexico City

Known by many as “the spot in Mexico for food, bar and hotel” some of the best designers in Mexico are behind this property (also own hotels Deseo and Basico in Playa del Carmen which I do not recommend!)  Located in the Polanco neighborhood (great for shopping) and surely a hipster.  Rates $175- 395

www.condesadf.com
info@condesadf.com
+52 55 5241 2600

Sofitel Hotel Santa Clara
Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is at the top of my list. Many friends have been; not one has said anything other than, GO. On the carribean with colonial architecture and an old-world style, fun, great shopping and fantastic music; this is where well-heeled Colombians weekend. The hotel has two pristine private beaches and plenty of activities at hand. The property’s San Pedro Majagua private island (45 minutes away) is unknown to me, but seems a great jaunt from the center. Rates vary seasonally, please contact us for more information.

www.hotelsantaclara.com
+57 5664 60 70

Hotel Saratoga
Old Havana, Cuba

This neo-classical style hotel was a popular boho-literary hang-out in the 1930s… now it’s a new luxury 96 room, 7 suite hotel. Gorgeous original details such as the French windows with mahogany shutters and soaring central atrium… Check out the spectacular rooftop swimming pool with to-die-for views. For an ultra-luxe stay hole up in the presidental suite with its wraparound terrace. Rates: $195 - $670

www.hotel-saratoga.com
+53 7 868 100

The Viceroy
Santa Monica, California

“City-smart and by the sea; fusion classic sophistication and contemporary chic” they say of themselves and I agree. Love the pool bungalows for lunch and by the way: their bartenders went to Margarita-making school — fantastic. But:  the pool is small and most often shaded *take note.  My LA friends frequent this stylish Santa Monica beach boutique hotel for lunch. If you want to stay central but seaside, this is one to take a look at. Rates vary seasonally, please contact hotel for more information.

www.viceroysantamonica.com
+1 800 670 6185

Combe House
Gittisham, Devon

Staying here, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a Jane Austen novel. Charming and warm owners Ruth and Ken Hunt have kept things authentic—from the portraits of previous owners, to the Georgian wallpaper, and countless antiques. Enter into a great hallway with log fire, mounted deer head, and dark paneled walls, but don’t expect stiff formality; all of the staff is super friendly, making it feel as though you are at a good friend’s home. The best of the 15 rooms are by far the Tommy Wax suite, with decor that simply begs empire line dresses and swooning; the Marker suite, which mixes old and new with bold prints and re-touched original furniture; or the Linen suite, a truly special experience in what used to be the laundry room! Check the large round copper tub that one wants to submerge themselves in with a bottle of Champagne. You won’t want to leave, but you should, there are lots of scenic walks and cute villages to explore, in 3,500 acres of estate roamed by pure-bred Arab horses. There are two dining rooms—my preferred was to have breakfast in the muralled Green room, and enjoy their fabulous dinner in the pretty Pink room. Food is sourced locally wherever possible, vegetables are grown, and jams made, on site—there are even beehives for the honey. There’s also the Georgian kitchen, where a private party of 10-12 can eat by candlelight in a setting that will transport you back to Regency times. There’s no spa, but the Hunts’ theory is when the countryside is so good—get out into it!

Room rates from £170.

www.thishotel.com | +44 (0) 1404 540 400 | stay@thishotel.com

Combe House
Gittisham
Honiton
Nr Exeter
Devon EX14 3AD

Auberge du Soleil
Rutherford, CA

Take a break in Provence/Tuscany without leaving the Bay area at this European-style country cottage… Stunning views of Napa Valley; Michelin starred eatery; earthy spa; oh-so quiet… Not one for kids, but a most welcome escape for weary moms and dads… eat, drink and have a romance. A well-known great - worth knowing about!  Rates: $525- $3,750

www.aubergedusoleil.com
info@aubergedusoleil.com
+1 707 963 12 11