Month: June 2023

Four Seasons Astir Palace

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Hotelchain: Four Seasons Hotels
Location: Athens – Greece
Classification: 5 star hotel
Official website: fourseasons.com/athens

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Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens is a five star luxury hotel located on the beautiful Athens Riviera. Location is excellent, the hotel is the ideal place to stay when you are looking for both relaxation near the coast and for visiting Athens. The city center of Athens can be reached in just 25 minutes.

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When I entered Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens I immediately knew that this would be a great stay. The luxurious lobby definitely is an eye-catcher with its beautiful furniture and relax atmosphere. The contemporary design is impressive and the large windows offer stunning views over the surrounding areas. Loved it!

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Let’s talk about rooms… Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens has a total of 303 rooms which are all luxuriously appointed and decorated in a very stylish way.  Rooms are spread over 2 buildings: The Nafsika and the Arion Building. The room I stayed in at the Nafsika building was absolutely stunning and the view over the sea was just incredible. The room had upscale furniture and a very comfortable living area and separate sleeping area with the most comfortable bed. At 44m² it was very spacious. The large windows offered panoramic views over the Aegean Sea and it was nice to hang out on the private furnished balcony. As usual at any Four Seasons, the bed was heavenly. It was like sleeping on a cloud.

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The large full marble bathroom was like a dream coming true. This bathroom is among the most beautiful bathroom I have ever seen. The free standing designer bathtub was top notch. The oversized excellent separate (rain)shower couldn’t be better. Oh, and I should definitely mention the Le Labo toiletries! A first time for me, but hopefully not the last. They smell a-m-a-z-i-n-g. Everything in the room was very well maintained. The room was cleaned several times a day and – of course – turndown service is provided each night.

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Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens offer a lot of facilities to their guests. The spa center is a must visit when you are staying here. The relaxing treatments and facilities of the CBE Wellness area are designed to make you feel relaxed and reborn. Each morning, I started my day with a nice swim in the indoor pool. Their marble indoor pool is very impressive. That is right, even the pools at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens are eye catchers. The large outdoor pool located right next to the beach is THE place to hang out when you’re looking for ultimate relaxation.

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After hanging out at the pool, I went down to see the beach. Even walking on the board walk to get to the beach is truly pleasant!

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Other facilities are the separate male/female Finnish sauna, Moroccan hammam for men and Rhassoul for women. The fitness area is up to date with great furniture and Pilates studio. For total relaxation after the work-out, the Silent Duvet Room is a treat! Several body treatments and facials are offered as well as private spa suites. I loved the semi outdoor terrace with plenty of loungers. It was sunny when I was in Lausanne and it was divine to rest here and reading a good book.

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There are several dining options at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens. We had dinner at Mercato, their stylish Italian trattoria. The restaurant is located near the beach and we were lucky enough with the good weather, having dinner outside is always a good idea. . It made our evening even more pleasant. The food was delicious and the best thing was the view. Watching the sunset from here was heavenly!

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Service throughout the entire evening was excellent. Every request has been taken care of with a smile. The service here was out of this world, very nice, easy going and certainly not snobby or anything.

The hotel offers more casual restaurants such as Taverna 37 – a beachfront bistro with a Greek cuisine and Helios – their Latin American grill restaurant.

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If you are looking for a more formal fine dining experience, make sure to book your table at Pelagos, Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens signature restaurant. It specializes in sophisticated Greek seafood. Although I didn’t eat here myself, I did had a look at the restaurant and was impressed.

Breakfast was outstanding! As you’d expect at a Four Seasons property, a  nice buffet is offered with a lot of choices to start your day healthy. My favorite drink was the smoothie with ginger and freshly squeezed orange juice. So refreshing and healthy at the same time. Loved the fact that we were able to sit outside.

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What a nice hotel to stay near Athens. This is a high class hotel with charm and a relaxed atmosphere. When you are in the area either for business or leisure, this hotel will do. I loved the overall service level and many facilities. Four seasons stands for high standard and that definitely was the case at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens. From the moment I stepped in until we left, I enjoyed every second here and can’t wait to return!

About me

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Welcome to my luxurious journey through the enchanting world of high-end travel, where elegance, opulence, and extraordinary experiences await at every turn. In this blog, I invite you to embark on a captivating exploration of luxury hotels.

With a lifelong passion for discovering the most exclusive destinations and accommodations across the globe, I have become an authority on the art of indulgence and fine hospitality.

Get ready to be immersed in a world where opulence meets sophistication, where impeccable service and attention to detail create unforgettable memories. Through my eyes, I will unlock the secrets of the most prestigious luxury hotels, inviting you to indulge in unparalleled experiences that redefine the meaning of luxury travel. So fasten your seatbelt, and prepare for an extraordinary journey filled with elegance, indulgence, and pure luxury. Welcome to my world and my passion for luxury travel.

La Butte aux Bois

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Knipsel


Hotelchain: Relais & Châteaux
Location: Lanaken – Belgium
Classification: 5 star Superior Hotel – La Source Restaurant (Michelin **)
Official website: labutteauxbois.be

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One of the best five star hotels in Belgium, la Butte aux Bois is nestled in peaceful Lanaken. As you approach this unique hotel, you’ll hear the sounds of birds and notice the beautiful surroundings. The hotel used to be a great manor house built in 1924. When the Bullens family moved into the manor, they opened a restaurant in 1986. A few years later, they opened the hotel. La Butte aux Bois has undergone several renovations and is one of the very best hotels in Belgium and a member of Relais & Châteaux. 2 years ago, a completely new building has been added with 20 gorgeous rooms and a brand new wellness center, La Forêt.

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As soon as you enter the hotel, you’ll feel a sense of luxury and details. The contemporary décor made a great first impression. There are designer elements all over the place. The wooden details match perfectly with the dark designer floors. The young woman behind the front desk made us feel very welcome and offered a glass of sparkling wine, always a good start! I knew this was going to be a great experience, this place truly has character. Sometimes you immediately feel at home and at La Butte aux Bois they welcome you with a great smile.

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We stayed in a brand new La Forêt room and we were very pleased when we entered the room. Again, the wood and designer elements are just gorgeous. The room had a great size and was built and decorated with eye for detail. The very comfortable couch was perfect for relaxing. I hate to lay on bed when reading a book, so I did appreciate the large couch. On top of that, each La Forêt room has amazing views over the forest. This factor really did make me feel more comfortable and added to the sense of prestige. Everything in the room is incredibly well finished from the furnishings to the art, styling and décor. The bed was very comfortable which enabled an excellent night’s sleep and added this, top of the line amenities are provided and immaculate cleanliness.

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The comfortable and modern bathroom had a tub and separate rainshower. They provide La Forêt toiletries and trust me, they do smell amazing! I must highlight the soft towels!

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La Butte aux Bois has 2 restaurants: Le Bistrot and La Source. We experienced La Source, a gastronomic Michelin rated (**) restaurant and we were blown away by the food. We thoroughly enjoyed our 8 course meal with wine pairing. Do believe me, I have been to many restaurants and I can honestly say that La Source is one of the best places I have ever been. Head chef Ralf Berendsen is an artist. He knows how to combine fresh ingredients. It seemed as if the courses would never stop coming. My favorite courses were the monkfish which came with Iberico Belotta, artichoke, basil and foie gras. Also, the Anjou pigeon was just delicious. Every course we had the most magnificent flavors you could possibly imagine. The pictures will speak for themselves.

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The service was almost unmatched and they really made you feel warm and cozy. Our La Source experience was the exhibition of art in food preparation and presentation. I loved every second of being there.

The next morning, I visited the spa area. I could spend here a whole day. Did you know that you can even visit the spa for a day without actually staying at the hotel. That is right, they have a day spa with a luxurious lounge with fruit and drinks. The relaxation area is absolutely gorgeous and so relaxing. They do offer the most magnificent spa treatments in the most comfortable spa suites. On top of that, the large indoor swimming pool is large enough for actually lap swimming and I’ve found the water temperature to be pretty pleasant. Next to the pool, guests can use a large Finnish sauna, infrared sauna and a large steamroom. The outdoor terrace is perfect for tanning. The outdoor jacuzzi is a treat. I spent a lot of time in there 😊

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Breakfast is served at Le Bistrot and as soon as you enter the restaurant they offer a delicious smoothy and fresh orange juice. The buffet-style breakfast offers a large selection of both hot and cold items and all products are of a good quality. Several à la carte options are available. Sparkling wine is offered to the guests as well. Very nice!

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La Butte aux Bois is a one of the few five star superior hotels in Belgium and I can honestly say I was blown away here. Everything they do, they’ll do it in style. Without being over the top. I could be me and again, I enjoyed each moment in this jewel. Highly recommended for a luxurious getaway!

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Bulgari Hotel Milano

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Hotelchain: Bulgari
Location: Milan – Italy
Classification: 5 star hotel
Official website: https://www.bulgarihotels.com/



Bulgari Hotel Milan is the most luxurious hotel in Milan situated in the heart of the city. The hotel has 58 rooms and suites, designed in a contemporary style that is both elegant and luxurious. The hotel is known for its amazing spa, which offers a range of services and treatments, as well as its attention to detail when it comes to its staff. As soon as you enter the Bulgari Hotel Milan you enter a world full of luxury. The lobby feels like a stylish living room with complimentary candies and cookies.





We all know Bulgari as a luxury brand but few know that they have several hotels all over the world. Service is unseen. As soon as you arrive they will remember your name and make sure you are treated as royalty. Our room wasn’t ready and we were taken to Il Bar to start our Bulgari experience. When I ordered the Bulgari cocktail I knew that this was the beginning of a fairytale. The name of the hotel written on top of the cocktail was an amazing surprise. Loved it.





Each room at Bulgari Milan is unique. What they do have in common: they’re all ultra luxuriously appointed. Each material is of a great quality. From the linen to the drapes, you can tell they didn’t save on money nor effort to make this hotel to be a true jewel. The design is awesome and so is the bed. One of the best I have experienced at any hotel. We had a very large balcony with several seating areas.





Bathroom was pretty fancy offering a separate walk-in shower and bath tub. Separate toilet is always a bonus.



What surprised me most was – again – attention to detail. I don’t know how they do it but they clean the room several times a day and we almost didn’t saw a staff member. Each time we were out of the room and came back, there was a surprise waiting: from taking care of our phone chargers with a small Bulgari holder, to fresh flowers, sleep well tea, cakes, etc. Very nice and hardly seen at any hotel world wide.

One of the highlights of this hotel: the Bulgari Spa – a true oasis of relaxation and wellness. The spa offers a wide range of services, including massages, facials, body treatments, and more. The spa also has a sauna, steam room, and indoor swimming pool, all of which are designed to help guests relax and rejuvenate. The swimming pool is an eye catcher, it’s the place to relax and unwind in a stylish environment.

The spa’s therapists are highly trained professionals who are dedicated to providing personalized service to each guest. They are knowledgeable about the latest techniques and products in the spa industry and are committed to ensuring that each guest has a unique and unforgettable experience.

Another highlight: breakfast. Not a buffet style breakfast here, but an à la carte 24 hour breakfast. That is right, here you can have breakfast 24 hours. The à la carte options did blow me away. Each dish is prepared with care and each request had been taken care of.

 

I would like to highlight once again that the hallmarks of the Bulgari Hotel Milan is its attention to detail when it comes to its staff. The hotel’s staff is friendly, professional, and attentive to guests’ needs. From the moment guests arrive at the hotel until they leave, the level of personalized service that is unmatched.

The staff is well-trained and knowledgeable about the hotel’s amenities, as well as the surrounding area. I was out for a run and the front desk staff pointed out several routes. They are always available to answer questions, provide recommendations, and ensure that guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

In conclusion, the Bulgari Hotel Milan is an exceptional hotel that offers guests an unforgettable experience. The hotel’s spa is a true sanctuary of relaxation and wellness, while its staff’s attention to detail ensures that guests are always well-cared for. If you are looking for a luxurious and unforgettable experience in Milan, the Bulgari Hotel Milan is the perfect choice.

Rulantica

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Location: Rust – Germany
Classification: 4 star superior hotel Bell Rock
Official website: https://www.europapark.de/en/rulantica

Let me present the best waterpark in the world: Rulantica! Located within the Europa-Park resort in Rust, Germany, Rulantica is a world-class waterpark that offers a wide range of attractions, entertainment, and amenities to visitors of all ages. The park has gained significant popularity since its opening, attracting both local and international visitors seeking an exciting and enjoyable water-based experience.

As mentioned, Rulantica is situated adjacent to the Europa-Park theme park in Rust, Germany. The waterpark covers an expansive area of approximately 45,000 square meters, providing ample space for numerous attractions and facilities. The park boasts a Nordic-themed atmosphere, creating an immersive and unique environment for guests.

The waterpark offers a variety of amenities to enhance the visitor experience. These include locker rooms, showers, changing areas, and a range of dining options to cater to different tastes. Additionally, Rulantica features a well-stocked retail store where visitors can purchase swimwear, towels, and merchandise related to the park’s theme.

Rulantica Waterpark is known for its thrilling and diverse attractions. Here are some of the key highlights:

The waterpark features a wide array of exhilarating slides, catering to visitors of different ages and preferences. From high-speed body slides to twisting tube slides and family-friendly rafting experiences, Rulantica offers something for everyone. Notable slides include the “Dugdrob & Vildfål,” a thrilling slide with interactive elements, and the “Snorri Strand,” a slide suitable for younger guests.

Rulantica boasts a large wave pool, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience the excitement of ocean-like waves in a controlled environment. The wave pool is a popular attraction for those seeking a more relaxed aquatic adventure. And the waves are HUGE!

My favorite attraction definitely is Vildstrøm, an outdoor rapid river. There’s also a lazy river offers a gentle and scenic journey through the waterpark. Visitors can relax on inflatable tubes as they float along the meandering river, taking in the beautiful surroundings.

Rulantica has dedicated areas for children, including shallow pools, mini-slides, and interactive water play features. These areas are designed to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for young visitors, allowing them to splash and have fun in a controlled environment. The waterpark is divided into several themed areas, each offering a unique atmosphere and attractions. The park’s theming revolves around a Nordic mythology concept, transporting visitors into a mystical and enchanting world. Some of the themed areas include:

Trølldal: This area is designed for younger guests and features shallow pools, mini-slides, and interactive water play elements.

Skog Lagune: Skog Lagune is a serene lagoon surrounded by lush greenery, providing a tranquil escape for visitors seeking relaxation.

Rangnakor: Rangnakor is an ancient village themed area, offering thrilling slides and attractions for older visitors looking for excitement and adventure.

Vinterhal: Vinterhal is an indoor area where visitors can enjoy water-based activities year-round. It features various slides, a wave pool, and a bar serving refreshing beverages.

Rulantica Waterpark maintains high standards of operations and safety to ensure a pleasant experience for all guests. Trained lifeguards are stationed throughout the park to monitor the attractions and respond to any emergencies. The park also enforces strict safety guidelines, including height restrictions for certain slides and the mandatory use of life jackets in designated areas During our stay we stayed at Bell Rock Hotel, a very luxurious marine styled hotel. It is incredibly designed (where Europapark is known for!). It’s a majestic hotel with the most comfortable rooms and many leisure facilities such as an outdoor and indoor pool, fitness facilities, restaurants and bars. Make sure you book a room here, you won’t be disappointed!


What a great weekend we had! Rulantica is definitely one of the best water parks I have been to. Overall service is excellent and employees will make sure you have a wonderful time! Highly recommended!