Europe & Beyond

Luxury All The Way

When people think of the term, ‘luxury,’ images of extravagance, pleasure, and relaxation tend to come to mind. When thinking of luxurious hotels, immaculate service, astounding décor, and a multitude of incredible amenities come to mind. If you are seeking to stay at a luxurious hotel for your next vacation, the following is a list of the top ten most luxurious hotels:

The Hazelton Hotel, Toronto, Canada

The Hazelton Hotel is situated in Yorkville, Toronto’s premier shopping district. It has all the most modern amenities, including a beauty farm, spa, pool, and elegant design evoking the Hollywood grandeur of the forties. Fine dining is on-site at the hotel’s restaurant, “ONE” headed by Chef Mark McEwan.

The Pierre New York, New York City

The Pierre has a long tradition as a luxury hotel. Located on Fifth Avenue across from Central Park, the hotel has recently had a $100 million renovation. The marble entry, fresh flower, art, and impeccable standards of service, along with its convenience to all that New York has to offer make The Pierre New York a destination for the luxury traveler.

The Ritz London, England

The Ritz combines the best of tradition with the most modern elegance and up-to-date amenities. Fabrics have been custom-made, and all the furniture has been commissioned from artisans in England and France. Afternoon tea is served in the Palm Court, and follows the tradition English tea. Guests are expected to “dress” while dining at The Ritz, with men wearing jackets and ties and women in dresses.

Park Hotel Villa Grazioli, Grottaferrata, Italy

The Park Hotel Grazioli is one of Italy’s premier hotels. The hotel occupies a sixteenth century villa, with stunning woodwork, spiral staircase, artwork and charm, and it is surrounded by tended grounds. With Rome close by, and many vineyards, the luxury traveler can enjoy all the amenities of city and country and relax in stunning surroundings.

Katitche Point Greathouse, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Built on the edge of Sir Francis Drake Channel by British architect Michael Helm, the Greathouse can be rented in its entirety, for the ultimate secluded retreat, or only one of the villas with a shared common room, kitchen and “crow’s nest” on the upper floor. Take advantage of the Caribbean by deep-sea fishing, or just walking and relaxing on the long white-sand beach.

Vahine Island Tahaa, French Polynesia

The Vahine Island Tahaa is the perfect getaway. French Polynesia is truly a paradise, with tropical warm water, succulent cuisine, and breathtaking sunsets. Guests can kayak, fish, snorkel, windsurf or island-hop in a traditional pirogue, while being attentively pampered by staff dedicated to making an unforgettable holiday experience.

Hotel George V, Paris

Long one of the premier luxury hotels of the world, the Hotel George V continues the tradition of attentive service, gorgeous Art Deco furnishings, abundant flower arrangements and fine dining. Guests have a spa, pool, sauna, and exercise room available. Situated near the Champs Elysee, all that the “City of Lights” has to offer is at hand – shopping, dining, galleries and museums.

Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Japan

The glass surrounding the lobby of the Mandarin Oriental leaves an impression that will not fade. It is only an introduction to the modern elegance of this premier hotel. Located in one of the world’s great cities, the guest will have views of the city throughout their stay, while having refuge being pampered in comfortable and quiet surroundings. The restaurants and spa are located on upper floors, leaving the guest with an impression of the grandeur of Tokyo.

Alvear Palace, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Colonial European architecture is beautifully blended with local culture and warmth in this fine hotel. It is located in the most elegant neighborhood of Buenos Aires, and features gourmet cuisine, twenty-first century technology, spa facilities and the city at your feet. With a personal butler on every floor, there is nothing that is overlooked during your stay.

Hotel Arts Barcelona, Spain

The Hotel Arts was built for the Olympics in Barcelona in 1992. It is modern design with high-tech amenities. Windows and glass give views of the Mediterranean from most rooms and common space. The hotel invites spending time outdoors, with interconnecting terraces, shaded by potted trees, chairs and lounges spaced for casual conversation or cafe dining. Simple and elegant, like Barcelona, you will feel pampered.

Sandeep Bali is Marketing Manager at Flightnetwork the 2nd most popular online travel agency in Canada, offering deals on flights, vacations, hotels and car rentals.