New York, New York

New York, you strange, mysterious, lovable and confusing city!

Just one tip, if you need a reasonably-priced hotel not far from where the action is, go for The Evelyn.

It is all New York but very welcoming for people from all over the world. Fantastic people, and great pastries in the morning.

http://www.theevelyn.com/

Hiding from the sun

Let's get this out of the way: I hate boutique hotels. You normally get too much attention and feel like you're in a movie. I appreciate anonymity and low-key service whereever I go.

I was caught by surprise in my hometown. An independent hotel that quietly put in your room and left you in peace. Big pluses for the fact that the reception, the rooms, and the restaurant were all in different buildings.

In the night, absolute quiet in the middle of a bustling city. Four and a half stars out of five.

hotelf6.fi

This town is coming like a Cape Town

Cape Town is in the top 3 of my favourite cities. It has a unique African/global/international/southern vibe. It's great for people who expect a combination of breathtaking scenery, good food/wines/coffee, diversity and good times. The rand is so cheap now that Cape probably has the best price/quality ratio in the world.


It's advisable to take a whole week to explore this city and it's amazing surroundings. You'd be sorry if you missed the Cape of Good Hope, the beaches, the picture perfect small towns, the safaris, and the vineyards. Great service wherever you go.


I've stayed at the Taj and the Mandela Rhodes Place which offers true value for money. Beggars can become a problem so it's advisable to use the excellent and cheap taxi/Uber services in the evening.

A castle in a valley

Putting together a complete spa with accommodation in a smallish place in the countryside is a toll order. The Château des Thermes in Chaudfontaine, Belgium, has managed to do so. The facility is of very high standard and very well-staffed. Five stars for the dinner restaurant. Book early.

http://www.chateaudesthermes.be/