A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
US-Cuba relations have rarely been straightforward. The path to improvement is often characterized by two steps forward and one step back. After several years of rapprochement, new travel regulations announced by the Trump administration on June 16, 2017, appear to have stalled some of the progress. But what do these changesreallymean for US travelers?
Bubbling with life at any time of day – and often long into the night – Malasaña is Madrid’s hippest neighborhood. Surrounding Plaza del 2 de Mayo and near the Tribunal Metro stop, this trendy barrio is just minutes from Sol and a short walk to the most sought-after museums and cultural hotspots.
Don’t let Porto’s architecture fool you. At face value, its slender buildings appear to house little more than pokey apartments or hole-in-the-wall cafés, yet many doors are rabbit holes leading to spacious living quarters (perhaps with a veggie patch and chickens out back) or modern dining spots harboring chilled-out terraces.
Given it’s one of the world’s most famous resort islands, Bali seems an unlikely choice for those wanting to escape the crowds. And while it’s true that this is a very touristy destination – attracting nearly 10 million visitors per year – most people only head to the south of the island, leaving plenty of wonderful spots to explore elsewhere, blissfully free of the masses.
Hua Hin’s strategic position on Thailand’s upper gulf coast makes it the ideal base for excursions into the outlying countryside. Awaiting you are national parks honeycombed with caves and teeming with wildlife, vineyards offering a tempting wine-filled day out, little-visited beaches, and pagoda-packed provincial towns. All these places make for straightforward day trips, so what are you waiting for?
These words struck such a chord with me as they are very much in line with the first point I made in this post here. Here’s hoping these sage words of wisdom courtesy of Meryl Streep gives you some strength, courage or even a bit of cheering up this week…
When the words “Bora-Bora” and “Tahiti” come up in conversation, they’re usually followed by that often-used adjective, “bucket list.” This adjective is well-deserved; with their lush landscapes, turquoise lagoons, and overwater bungalows, French Polynesia’s Society Islands—an archipelago formed by Bora-Bora, Moorea, Huahine, and Tahiti—are legendary for a reason. However, an unforgettable way to experience French Polynesia and the South Pacific is on the water, where you can sail from one picturesque spot to the next and truly feel the essence of life on the high seas. Clearly, readers of GoTravelDaily agree: for the second consecutive year, Paul Gauguin Cruises—a single-vessel line sailing to the Society Islands, the Marquesas, Fiji, and the Cook Islands—won the title of the World’s Best Midsize-Ship Ocean Cruise Line. One satisfied traveler stated, “ThePaul Gauguinperfectly complements the breathtaking views and calm waters of these island paradises. The intimate feeling, unrivaled crew-to-passenger ratio, and outstanding service make you feel like the entire cruise was put together for YOU alone!”
Ask anyone who has used a tour operator, and they will tell you it’s the only way to travel. Whether embarking on a truffle tasting excursion in Tuscany, sailing through the Cyclades in your own schooner, or cycling in style through Napa Valley, a tour operator takes the hassle out of planning a luxurious getaway. The world’s best focus on the finest details to create unparalleled experiences — and memories that last a lifetime. Each year, GoTravelDaily surveys travelers to weigh in on their experiences around the globe — sharing their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, and airlines. Readers rated tour operators on their staff and guides, itineraries and destinations, activities, accommodations, food, and overall value. Many of the winners focus on active cycling or walking vacations. Debuting for the first time ever is DuVine Cycling & Adventure Company, which arranges bicycle trips in Europe, North and South America, Africa, and the Middle East. Readers raved about the No. 2 company’s attention to detail and the flexibility of their guides, allowing extra time to explore local areas. “We love biking with DuVine,” says a reader. “What a way to see the wine regions of the world, with expert guides that felt like family by the end of the journey, top-notch accommodations, and fabulous food.” Mountain Lodges of Peru, the No. 5 winner, offers a seven-day Salkantay trek along the Inca Trail, with stops at small lodges in remote villages. The end point: Machu Picchu. “Standing at the top of a pass with nothing around us but llamas and the beauty of the land was an experience I will never forget,” shared another reader. Rather than planning your next vacation entirely by yourself, consider these premier tour operators, including the No. 1 winner, recognized as one of the most exclusive in the business.
Hawaii has been a popular tropical getaway for decades — and with good reason. The 50th state’s six main islands — Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, Kauai, Lanai, and Molokai — offer incredibly diverse experiences, from world-class surfing and snorkeling to vibrant food and hotel scenes. These offerings are attracting a new generation of travelers while giving longtime visitors a fresh perspective with each trip.
The enduring pleasures of Greek myths, thousands of years later, owe much to the high drama played out by the dwellers of Mount Olympus. However, as anyone who has ever been in a romance knows, setting is key. Consequently, it’s no surprise that when it comes to voting on the best islands in Europe, our readers gave four out of the top 10 spots to Greece. The winners are all destinations where ancient history is ever-present, and each sunset seems to be more epic than the last. Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, GoTravelDaily asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.
Rhodes and the Dodecanese, Páros, and Crete are all places where you can choose your own adventure: ruins or lazy basking in the sun, with a spectacular meal of fresh fish at the end of the day regardless. However, Santorini is another animal altogether, which is why it’s claimed the number one spot in this category an astounding 14 times. Sunset hero shots may have become a cliché on Instagram—and here, as everyone gathers in the cobblestoned town of Oía just before evening falls, you can see why. Hotels built into the steep cliffs offer views out over the sea that are so captivating, there’s no reason to leave your suite and its private plunge pool until dinnertime.
Italy, another perennially popular destination, claimed two spots on the list. Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, boasts Mount Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe, as well as ruins from the Greeks and the Romans and a plethora of vineyards. Even more popular among our readers is Ischia, a volcanic island that combines history with elegant hotels and restaurants, and has appeared in the works of Truman Capote and Elena Ferrante. But for some, it’s not always about warm-weather destinations. Scotland’s Skye and the Hebrides, an archipelago famous for its cliffs, moors, and moody, dramatic landscapes, broke into the list for the first time ever — proving that even in a destination as well-trammeled as Europe, there are always new discoveries waiting to be had.
Salvation Mountain California is an artistic landscape that stands colorfully in the California Desert, which I’m sure you’ll love!
Head southwest past Hawaii, stop just short of New Zealand, and if you’re very lucky you will find yourself in the Cook Islands, a 15-isle volcanic atoll in the South Pacific. With jungles for hiking and a seascape for pondering how many shades of blue you can name, it is little wonder the Cooks rank high on the list of the top five islands in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, GoTravelDaily asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value. This year’s winner is the New Zealand island of Waiheke, praised by our readers for its “great bohemian, artistic vibe,” and “wine, sun, and great food, plus outdoor activities,” which make this not only a unique getaway but also a “must.” Located just a 40-minute ferry ride away from New Zealand’s North Island, Waiheke is that rare destination that seems to have it all: beaches, vineyards, great cuisine, and friendly locals. Three islands in French Polynesia also scored big with our readers, with Huahine, Bora-Bora, and Moorea (up from No. 3 on the list last year) all receiving top honors. The lush Huahine is revered for its lack of development and tourists compared with its more popular neighbor Bora-Bora, an atoll that continues to draw celebrities to its luxurious resorts with overwater bungalows. Moorea is surrounded by a blue lagoon that affords unparalleled diving and snorkeling; you can even feed reef sharks if that’s your idea of a good time. Hikes through the inland mountainous terrain are rewarded with a cooling shower under one of Moorea’s many waterfalls. Our advice when it comes to choosing between these places? Open an atlas to this area of the world, close your eyes, and lower your finger. Among these five destinations, one can only go right.
Maybe it’s because the Cubs finally won the World Series, or the fact that it’s Obama’s hometown: Chicago is red hot right now. Last year, more than 54 million people visited the city, an all-time record. To keep up with the demand, several new luxury hotels have opened — and many of the established properties underwent multimillion-dollar renovations to stay competitive.
New York is the ultimate hotel town. For any trip you’re planning — from a quiet, art-focused getaway on the Upper East Side to an action-packed weekend filled with amazing restaurants and vibrant shops on the Lower East Side — there’s a corresponding hotel. While nearly every major hotel chain is represented throughout New York City, there’s also a rich selection of independent and boutique properties that have particularly resonated with readers this year.
The frenetic energy of city life demands a careful choice of hotel. A great location is a must—the farther you are from the action, the more time you’ll waste traveling. Conversely, if a hotel is too touristy, you might miss the chance to experience local life. Ideally, you want an in-the-know concierge, a room that feels like an oasis, and most importantly, a real sense of place. Fortunately, discerning travelers have shared their views, leading to this selection of 15 exceptional hotels. Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, readers weigh in on travel experiences around the globe, sharing their opinions on the finest hotels, resorts, and more. Hotels are rated based on facilities, location, service, food, and overall value, with properties classified as City or Resort according to their amenities.
Portugal has been on a serious roll lately—so much so thatGoTravelDailynamed it Destination of the Year for 2016—due in part to a revitalization of urban centers like Lisbon and Porto. The wine industry in the Douro Valley is also thriving (and bottles are unbelievably reasonable). Moreover, the beaches and charming coastal towns are less known to American travelers than those in France and Italy, yet that’s part of the appeal. The country’s moment in the sun continues with Convento do Espinheiro, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa set in the town of Évora, receiving top honors among resort hotels in Spain and Portugal. Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the top attractions in the Alentejo region, which is experiencing growing popularity for its sweeping landscapes, robust food and wine culture, and rich history. Convento do Espinheiro, housed in a former convent building with vaulted cloisters and expansive grounds, offers a winning combination of atmosphere, setting, and luxury. One respondent lauded it as “one of the most beautiful experiences of my life,” praising its “excellent service, dreamy comfort, extraordinary history,” and restaurant, which “will blow your mind.” Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, respondents share their opinions on travel experiences worldwide—ranking top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were evaluated based on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as City or Resort based on their locations and amenities. The Penha Longa Resort, located in the historic resort town of Sintra, 30 minutes outside Lisbon, secured second place this year. Set in the rolling hills of a 545-acre national park bordering two magnificent beaches, the property features a 27-hole golf course, a 19th-century palace, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. The only Spanish property on this year’s list was the Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa. This legendary hotel, which opened in 1954 and captivated celebrity beachgoers in the 1960s and 70s, continues to attract a glamorous crowd with its impeccable styling and lush gardens.
Oh, Canada! This year’s World’s Best resorts showcase the True North’s wild coastlines, epic ski slopes, and pristine wilderness. Familiar names — the Wickaninnish Inn and Post Hotel & Spa, among others — ranked among the top five properties, while Canadian operator Fairmont Hotels & Resorts also made its home country proud with four hotels among the 10 winners. Every year, the World’s Best Awards survey asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — sharing their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated based on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties classified as City or Resort based on their locations and amenities were also taken into account. Last year’s gold and silver winners swapped places in 2017, with Fogo Island Inn, a contemporary property featuring just 29 suites — all with floor-to-ceiling windows and locally crafted furnishings — emerging as this year’s big winner. “The beauty of Newfoundland, the remoteness of Fogo Island, and extraordinary design make this inn a very special place,” one voter remarked.
Next on the list is Manoir Hovey, a 19th-century mansion set along the shores of Lake Massawippi in North Hatley. Modeled after Mount Vernon and framed by 30 acres of woodland and manicured gardens, the property is an ideal addition to a trip to Quebec City—the No. 1 city in Canada this year—since it’s conveniently located just two and a half hours away. At Le Hatley restaurant, chef Francis Wolf serves dishes such as buttery foie gras and garden-fresh salads drizzled with local birch-tree syrup. After dinner, guests can retreat upstairs to one of the 37 elegant rooms, many featuring fireplaces or private balconies.
On the west coast, the picturesque Wickaninnish Inn made its regular appearance on the list. The Vancouver Island property is nestled on a pine-forest-ringed promontory, with cozy rooms equipped with deep soaking tubs, while floor-to-ceiling windows invite the breathtaking outdoors in. You can spend your days strolling along Chesterman Beach or curled up fireside with a fine Pinot from the Pacific.
Ski resorts on both sides of Canada also made a strong showing thanks to famous properties such as the Four Seasons Resort Whistler, Fairmont Chateau Whistler, and Fairmont Tremblant.10. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, AlbertaCourtesy of Fairmont Chateau Lake LouiseScore: 88.939. Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu, La Malbaie, QuebecCourtesy of Fairmont Le Manoir RichelieuScore: 90.228. Fairmont Tremblant, Mont Tremblant, QuebecCourtesy of Fairmont TremblantScore: 90.367. Fairmont Chateau Whistler, British ColumbiaCourtesy of Fairmont Chateau WhistlerScore: 90.406. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler, British ColumbiaCourtesy of Four Seasons Resort WhisterScore: 90.685. Nita Lake Lodge, Whistler, British ColumbiaCourtesy of Nita Lake LodgeScore: 91.304. Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino, British ColumbiaCourtesy of Wickaninnish InnScore: 91.643. Post Hotel & Spa, Lake Louise, AlbertaCourtesy of Post Hotel & SpaScore: 95.642. Manoir Hovey, North Hatley, QuebecCourtesy of Manoir HoveyScore: 96.961. Fogo Island InnWilliam AbranowiczScore: 97.76As one reader aptly noted, “Fogo Island Inn is beyond comparison. To call it a hotel seems somehow wrong.” This 29-room property, a striking contemporary build on Newfoundland’s Fogo Island, serves as an extension of the destination itself. New and old are integrated into every aspect of the inn’s design: its furnishings and textiles— including the wallpaper and hand-sewn quilts—were specifically created for the inn, with most made locally. All guest activities, ranging from berry picking and guided hikes through Fogo residents to traditional fishing and punt rowing, promote regional culture and history.
Shanghai is a hypermodern, cutting-edge city of over 24 million that draws visitors who appreciate art, design, food, and style. In the past few decades, the metropolis has reinvented itself, adding numerous architectural stunners to its skyline (including the Shanghai Tower, the second-largest skyscraper in the world), blue-chip art galleries, craft-cocktail bars, Michelin-starred restaurants — and some of the best hotels in the world. Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, readers weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — sharing their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels are rated on facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties are classified as City or Resort based on their locations and amenities. The Peninsula Shanghai took top honors this year. Located on the city’s famous Bund (a wide waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River), the hotel lives up to the burnished Peninsula reputation with “unrivaled service,” says one reader. It also takes full advantage of its location. In March, the hotel unveiled the Azimut 47 Flybridge, a yacht that guests can enjoy for scenic private cruises along the Huangpu. Nearby, Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund is housed in the former Shanghai Club, where British expats would gather to socialize in the 1920s and 30s. “A gorgeous hotel full of history and romance,” said one reader. Today, guests unwind from the frenetic pace of the city by taking a break in the spa, where all eight treatment rooms come with a private steam bath. In the city’s financial district, the Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai stands out for its contemporary design of 362 rooms, where subtle Chinese influences include colorful silk floral fabrics and glossy lacquered furniture pieces, while the Ritz-Carlton, Pudong, Shanghai, offers 285 Art Deco–inspired suites in a soaring 58-story tower. Additionally, at the Fairmont Peace Hotel, the star is the Jazz Bar, where locals and guests stop in for the live jazz band that’s been performing nightly for decades. Read on to see how each hotel was rated.
When it comes to planning a relaxing resort vacation in Africa, you’re spoiled for choice. Do you crave lush green jungles, white-sand beaches, and turquoise waters? Jet off to the Seychelles, which compete with the South Pacific for jaw-dropping beauty. Can’t decide between the picturesque rolling hills of Napa and the old-world charm of the Loire? Experience the best of both worlds with a trip to the South African Winelands, where centuries-old vineyards are nestled in the sandstone mountains of the Western Cape. Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, GoTravelDaily invites readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels are assessed based on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties are categorized as City or Resort based on their locations and amenities. This year, an impressive four out of the five winners hailed from one country: South Africa. While GoTravelDaily readers love visiting Cape Town, which was once again voted the No. 1 city in Africa, they also enjoy pairing their visits with stays at wine-country retreats or seaside resorts just outside the urban center. In the coastal getaway of Hermanus, Birkenhead House—an 11-suite, cliff-top former home—offers guests stunning views of surfers and whales breaching in the Atlantic below. One visitor even remarked that getting up close to the marine life via boat wasn’t necessary, as “we saw more whales from the hotel patio.” The other three South African properties, however, are located in wine country and are just as impressive.
In a city teeming with luxury hotels—including recent openings from a number of boldfaced brands—what does it take for a London property to truly stand out from the crowd? One could do worse than pose that question to the team at 41, a small, independent hotel that has ranked among the favorites in the British capital for four of the past five years and this year came in at No 1.
