LUMINA Opens in Hobart: The Tasman’s New Event Space Shines on the Waterfront

LUMINA

Hobart has welcomed a new destination for conferences, corporate events, gala dinners and celebrations with the opening of LUMINA at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart.

Located in Parliament Square in the heart of Hobart, LUMINA combines contemporary architecture, flexible event space and the distinctive Tasmanian character of The Tasman. Its central location places event guests close to Hobart’s historic waterfront, Salamanca Place, accommodation, restaurants and the city's cultural attractions.

A Flexible New Hobart Event Venue

Designed as a column-free, clear-span space, LUMINA provides organisers with an open setting that can be adapted for different styles of events.

The venue can accommodate up to 220 guests for a reception and up to 190 guests for a banquet, while conference-style events can accommodate up to 150 people. The flexibility makes LUMINA suitable for corporate conferences, incentive events, product launches, gala dinners, cocktail functions, meetings and weddings.

With 270 square metres of event space, LUMINA provides a substantial new option for organisations searching for a Hobart conference venue or business events destination.

Tasmanian Design at the Heart of LUMINA

LUMINA

The design of LUMINA reflects the connection between The Tasman and its island home.

Tasmanian materials and craftsmanship are incorporated throughout the development, complementing the hotel's architectural story and its blend of heritage and contemporary design.

The result is an event environment that combines modern functionality with a strong sense of place, giving visiting delegates an opportunity to experience Tasmania through design, food and hospitality.

Events with Hobart on the Doorstep

One of LUMINA's attractions for event planners is its location.

The Tasman sits between Hobart's CBD and waterfront, with Salamanca Place and Battery Point within easy reach. Guests can also explore Hobart's cultural attractions, restaurants and waterfront experiences during a conference or incentive program.

The hotel itself provides accommodation and dining, allowing organisers to combine meetings and events with a stay in one location. The Tasman has 152 rooms and suites spanning heritage, Art Deco and contemporary accommodation styles.

A New Choice for Business Events in Tasmania

LUMINA

LUMINA adds another option for event organisers considering Tasmania for conferences, incentives and corporate gatherings.

For incentive groups, the combination of a luxury Hobart hotel, locally inspired dining and access to Tasmania's natural and cultural experiences creates opportunities to extend an event beyond the meeting room.

For organisers searching for a Hobart event venue, conference venue or gala dinner location, LUMINA provides a flexible new setting in the centre of the city.

The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart

Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hbalc-the-tasman-a-luxury-collection-hotel-hobart/

Director of Sales: Kim Upton
Email: kim.upton@luxurycollection.com

Phone: +61 447 587 100
Hotel phone: +61 3 6240 6000
Address: 12 Murray Street, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Shangri-La Phnom Penh: A New Luxury View of Cambodia's Capital

Shangri-La Phnom Penh

There are many ways to arrive in Phnom Penh, but arriving at Shangri-La Phnom Penh provides an immediate impression of how dramatically Cambodia's capital is changing.

Located in the rapidly developing Koh Pich, or Diamond Island, district, the hotel opened in December 2024 as Shangri-La's first hotel in Cambodia.

The most memorable introduction, however, comes from high above the city.

Phnom Penh From Level 54

Rising above Koh Pich, Shangri-La Phnom Penh provides panoramic views across the capital and the rivers that surround it.

From Level 54, Phnom Penh appears almost endless. The Mekong, Tonlé Sap and Tonlé Bassac weave through the urban landscape while traditional neighbourhoods sit alongside modern towers and new developments.

Shangri-La Phnom Penh

The effect is particularly striking around sunset, when the changing light reveals the scale and diversity of the city.

The hotel's Altitude rooftop bar occupies Level 54 and is officially promoted by Shangri-La as Cambodia's highest rooftop bar. Beyond the bar is an infinity pool surrounded by tropical planting, creating an elevated setting for dining and drinks above the city.

Contemporary Luxury With Cambodian Influences

Shangri-La Phnom Penh

Shangri-La Phnom Penh offers 303 rooms and suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows making the most of the city and river views.

The design combines contemporary international luxury with details reflecting Cambodia's architectural and cultural traditions.

For visitors, the result is a hotel that feels modern without being disconnected from its destination.

The property also includes restaurants and lounges, spa and wellness facilities, meeting and event spaces and other services expected from an international five-star hotel.

Its location makes it particularly convenient for visitors wanting to combine a luxury hotel stay with exploring Phnom Penh.

A Base for Exploring the Capital

Phnom Penh

From Shangri-La Phnom Penh, visitors can explore the Royal Palace, National Museum, Wat Phnom, Central Market and the riverside districts.

The hotel is also positioned in an area that illustrates the changing face of Phnom Penh.

Koh Pich has become one of the most visible symbols of the city's development, with high-rise buildings and contemporary commercial projects transforming what was once a very different part of the capital.

Yet the traditional city is never far away.

A short journey can take visitors from modern towers to markets, temples, street-food stalls and neighbourhoods where everyday Cambodian life continues much as it has for generations.

An Evening Above the City

One of the pleasures of staying in Phnom Penh is watching the city change after dark.

At Altitude, the experience begins with the view.

As the sun sets, Phnom Penh's skyline gradually becomes illuminated and the rivers become ribbons of light through the city.

The rooftop setting provides an ideal place for an evening drink or meal, with the infinity pool and panoramic outlook adding another dimension to the experience. Shangri-La describes Altitude as an elevated dining and drinks venue combining rooftop views with seafood, steaks and handcrafted cocktails.

From the Hotel to the Mekong

Toum Tiou 2

The Shangri-La Phnom Penh experience can also be combined with a journey along the Mekong.

The Toum Tiou II, operated by CF Mekong, offers Discovery cruises between Siem Reap and Saigon, giving travellers the opportunity to experience Cambodia and the Mekong region from the river.

Current 2026 and 2027 schedules include nine-day, eight-night Discovery cruises aboard Toum Tiou II, with routes operating between Siem Reap and Saigon.

This creates an appealing combination: the energy and modern luxury of Phnom Penh followed by the slower rhythm of life along the Mekong.

A New Chapter for Phnom Penh

Shangri-La Phnom Penh reflects a city that is becoming increasingly confident about its future.

The new Techo International Airport, which commenced operations in September 2025, is improving the capital's international connectivity, while new hotels, restaurants and developments are changing the city's skyline.

Shangri-La Phnom Penh

From the 54th floor of Shangri-La, that transformation is impossible to miss.

The hotel provides more than a luxurious place to stay. It offers a high-rise perspective on a capital balancing its Khmer heritage with a rapidly modernising future.

And from that viewpoint, Phnom Penh looks like a city worth staying to discover. Phnom Penh is no longer simply somewhere to pass through.

It is somewhere to stay, and you will always be warmly welcomed by veteran Shangri-La General Manager, the affable Ody Odayappan and his professional and knowledgeable staff.

The GM hosted some special guests who had just experienced the New Discovery Tour on the Mekong aboard the 14-cabin Toum Tiou 2. Discounts are available for 2026/27 cruises www.cfmekong.com

Shangri-La Phnom Penh

Address: Village No 14, Sam Dach Hun Sen Road, Tonle Bassac Commune, Chamkarmorn District, Phnom Penh 120101 Cambodia
Phone: (855) 23 913 888

Website: https://www.shangri-la.com/phnompenh/shangrila/

E-mail: phnompenh@shangri-la.com

CF Mekong

Toum Tiou 2

Address: 313 Preah Sisowath Quay Office 20 Phnom Penh 12207 Cambodia

Phone: +855 (0)23 216 070
Website: https://cfmekong.com/

Email: office@cfmekong.com

*Written by John Savage and Grahame Cox

For more travel inspiration read the daily online “The Holiday and Travel Magazine”
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Horizon by SkyCity: Auckland’s Five-Star Hotel Where Business Meets Luxury

Horizon by SkyCity

For business travellers and conference delegates visiting Auckland, location can make all the difference. Horizon by SkyCity places guests in the heart of the city, with direct connections to the New Zealand International Convention Centre and the wider SkyCity precinct.

The five-star hotel at 85 Hobson Street offers 303 rooms and suites, including 10 suites, combining contemporary design, Auckland city views and touches of Aotearoa throughout its interiors.

Horizon by SkyCity was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand’s national business events tradeshow, held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland from 17 to 18 June 2026.

Directly Connected to the NZICC

One of Horizon by SkyCity’s greatest advantages for conference delegates is its direct connection to the New Zealand International Convention Centre via air bridges across Hobson Street.

Guests can move between their accommodation and the convention centre without needing to cross busy city streets, making the hotel particularly convenient for conferences, conventions, meetings and corporate events. The SkyCity entertainment precinct is also connected, putting restaurants, attractions and entertainment close to the hotel.

For event planners, having accommodation and a major convention facility so closely connected can simplify the experience for delegates attending multi-day events.

303 Rooms with a Sense of New Zealand

Horizon by SkyCity

Horizon by SkyCity has been designed to provide more than a conventional five-star hotel experience. Locally commissioned artwork and sculptures, locally crafted furnishings and New Zealand-inspired amenities bring elements of Aotearoa into the guest experience.

The rooms are designed around views of Auckland, with the cityscape providing a constantly changing backdrop. The hotel's 10 Horizon Suites feature expansive views, floor-to-ceiling windows, separate entertaining and working areas, and locally commissioned artwork.

The hotel also provides a 24-hour fully equipped gym, complimentary Wi-Fi and concierge services.

Dining and Auckland Experiences

The Grill is Horizon by SkyCity’s signature restaurant, serving New Zealand steak and seafood and featuring a private dining room and outdoor courtyard. Onyx provides another setting for drinks and relaxation within the hotel.

Beyond the hotel, guests have easy access to SkyCity’s extensive dining and entertainment precinct, including the iconic Sky Tower. Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, Queen Street and Britomart are also within walking distance, while ferries provide access to destinations including Waiheke Island.

Auckland Accommodation for Business Events

Horizon by SkyCity

With its five-star accommodation, direct NZICC connection and central location, Horizon by SkyCity provides a convenient base for conference delegates, business travellers and visitors attending major events in Auckland.

For organisers searching for Auckland conference accommodation, luxury hotels near the NZICC or five-star Auckland CBD accommodation, Horizon by SkyCity offers a combination of convenience, contemporary design and connections to one of New Zealand’s most important business events precincts.

Horizon by SkyCity

Contact Person: Danielle Ouwejan
Website: https://horizonbyskycity.skycityauckland.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HorizonbySkyCity/
Email: info@horizonbyskycity.co.nz
Phone: +64 9 363 6000
Mobile: +64 21 222 8529
Address: 85 Hobson Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/.

Huka Lodge: New Zealand Luxury Retreat Named Among the World’s Best Hotels

Huka Lodge

Huka Lodge Earns Global Recognition in 2026

New Zealand’s iconic Huka Lodge has once again gained international recognition after being ranked No. 82 in The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2026 extended list of hotels ranked from 51 to 100.

Situated near Taupō on New Zealand’s North Island, Huka Lodge is celebrated for combining an extraordinary riverside setting with personalised hospitality, fine dining and the timeless character of a classic New Zealand luxury lodge.

The 2026 recognition marks the second consecutive year Huka Lodge has appeared in the prestigious World’s 50 Best Hotels extended list, placing this historic property firmly on the international luxury travel map.

A Legendary Waikato River Setting

Huka Lodge

Huka Lodge occupies 17 acres of established gardens beside the emerald waters of the Waikato River, creating a tranquil setting close to the spectacular Huka Falls.

The lodge began more than a century ago as a fishing camp and has evolved into one of New Zealand’s most recognised luxury accommodation experiences. Its secluded riverside location allows guests to enjoy the natural beauty of the Taupō region while staying in an environment designed for relaxation and privacy.

For travellers seeking luxury accommodation in New Zealand, the combination of scenery, heritage and exclusivity is a major part of Huka Lodge’s appeal.

Elegant Suites and Private Retreats

Huka Lodge

Accommodation at Huka Lodge includes beautifully appointed Lodge Suites and two exclusive private residences, the Alan Pye Cottage and Alex van Heeren Cottage.

The accommodation is designed to provide guests with privacy while maintaining a strong connection with the surrounding landscape. Gardens, river views and the peaceful atmosphere create an experience very different from staying in a conventional city hotel.

The main lodge provides a welcoming gathering place, with comfortable lounges, open fires, dining and a convivial bar creating an atmosphere suited to leisurely days and relaxed evenings.

Dining, Nature and New Zealand Experiences

Huka Lodge

Food is an important part of the Huka Lodge experience, with gourmet dining complemented by the dramatic natural surroundings of the Waikato River.

Guests can also experience the Taupō region through activities and adventures ranging from trout fishing and walking to golf, jet boating and exploring nearby natural attractions.

For international visitors, Huka Lodge provides an opportunity to experience a distinctly New Zealand style of luxury, where spectacular scenery and outdoor experiences are combined with attentive service.

A Standout Luxury Stay in Taupō

Huka Lodge

Huka Lodge’s inclusion in The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2026 extended list highlights the continuing international appeal of luxury lodges that offer more than accommodation.

For travellers planning a luxury New Zealand holiday, Huka Lodge provides a memorable base for discovering Taupō, Huka Falls and the wider central North Island while enjoying an exclusive riverside retreat.

Its heritage, setting and personalised hospitality continue to make Huka Lodge one of New Zealand’s most distinctive luxury travel experiences.

Huka Lodge

Website: https://hukalodge.com/
Email: reserve@beckons.com
Phone: +64 7 222 4555
Address: 271 Huka Falls Road, Taupō, New Zealand

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Fingal Hotel Edinburgh: Stay Aboard a Historic Luxury Ship

Fingal Hotel Edinburgh

Imagine waking up in Edinburgh aboard a beautifully restored ship, with the gentle atmosphere of Leith Harbour replacing the usual hotel lobby. Fingal Hotel offers one of Scotland's most distinctive luxury accommodation experiences, combining maritime heritage, elegant interiors and modern five-star comfort.

Permanently berthed at Edinburgh's historic Port of Leith, Fingal provides a memorable alternative to a conventional city hotel and is an ideal choice for travellers looking for a unique place to stay in Edinburgh.

A Historic Ship Transformed into a Luxury Hotel

Fingal Hotel Edinburgh

Fingal began life as a working vessel carrying lighthouse keepers and supplies to remote lighthouses around Scotland's west coast. After decades at sea, the ship was permanently berthed in Leith and transformed into Scotland's first luxury floating hotel, opening to guests in 2019.

The ship's maritime past has been carefully incorporated into its design. Lighthouse-inspired diamond patterns appear throughout the interiors, cabins are named after famous Scottish lighthouses, and the glass lift evokes the lantern room of a lighthouse.

The result is a hotel that feels both historic and sophisticated, with carefully designed cabins and suites offering a distinctive nautical atmosphere.

For an especially memorable stay, the Skerryvore Suite features its own private outdoor deck, providing a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the harbour.

Luxury Dining Aboard Fingal

Fingal's dining experience continues the ship's elegant character. The Lighthouse Restaurant and Bar provides an atmospheric setting for breakfast, afternoon tea, dinner and drinks.

The ship's intimate surroundings make dining aboard Fingal an experience in itself, whether enjoying a relaxed meal after sightseeing or settling in for an evening drink.

Explore Edinburgh from Leith

Fingal Hotel Edinburgh

Fingal is ideally positioned for exploring Leith and the wider attractions of Edinburgh. One of the area's most popular attractions is the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht that served the British Royal Family for more than four decades.

The yacht is moored close to Fingal and offers visitors the opportunity to explore its state apartments, crew quarters and bridge.

Leith itself has developed into one of Edinburgh's most interesting neighbourhoods, with waterfront walks, restaurants, bars, galleries and historic attractions.

Food lovers can continue the nautical theme at The Ship on the Shore, where Scottish seafood is served overlooking the Water of Leith.

For visitors wanting to explore central Edinburgh, the city's famous historic attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace, are easily accessible from Leith by public transport.

When to Stay at Fingal Hotel

Fingal Hotel Edinburgh

Fingal Hotel can be enjoyed year-round. Each season offers a different perspective on Edinburgh, from long summer evenings to the atmospheric winter months when the city's historic streets and waterfront take on a particularly dramatic character.

For travellers searching for a unique hotel in Edinburgh, Fingal offers something far more memorable than a standard city stay: the opportunity to sleep aboard a historic Scottish ship while enjoying the service and comfort of a luxury hotel.

Fingal Hotel

Website: www.fingal.co.uk
Email: reservations@fingal.co.uk
Phone: +44 131 357 3333
Address: Alexandra Dock, Edinburgh, EH6 7DX, Scotland

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Phnom Penh: The Cambodian Capital That Deserves More Than a Day

Techo International Airport 

For many travellers, Phnom Penh has traditionally been a short stop between arriving in Cambodia and continuing towards Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.

That is changing.

Cambodia's capital is developing into a destination worth exploring in its own right, combining centuries of Khmer history with French colonial architecture, vibrant markets, contemporary restaurants, modern shopping centres and a rapidly changing skyline.

With the new Techo International Airport now serving the capital, Phnom Penh is also becoming easier to reach. The airport commenced operations on 9 September 2025 and is being developed in stages, with an initial capacity of about 13 million passengers a year and planned expansion to 30 million by 2030 and 50 million by 2050.

For visitors, that makes now an interesting time to discover the city.

A City Shaped by Three Rivers

Tonle Sap River in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh's location at the meeting of the Mekong, Tonlé Sap and Tonlé Bassac rivers has helped shape the character of the city for centuries.

The riverside remains one of the best places to experience Phnom Penh. Along Sisowath Quay, locals and visitors mingle as cafés and restaurants fill, river boats pass and the city begins to cool after the heat of the day.

The contrast between old and new is everywhere.

Traditional neighbourhoods and small food stalls sit within sight of modern towers and luxury developments, while monks, motorbikes and pedestrians share the streets with increasingly sophisticated commercial developments.

A New Era of Luxury in Phnom Penh

Shangri-La Phnom Penh

The transformation of Phnom Penh is particularly visible in its growing collection of international hotels and luxury developments.

Among the newest additions is Shangri-La Phnom Penh, rising prominently above the rapidly developing Koh Pich, or Diamond Island, district. The 54-storey hotel provides a striking example of the changing face of the Cambodian capital, combining international luxury with expansive views across the city and surrounding rivers.

Its arrival reflects Phnom Penh's emergence as a destination for both leisure travellers and business visitors, adding another reason for travellers to consider staying in the city for several nights rather than simply passing through.

From luxury hotels and rooftop restaurants to contemporary shopping and entertainment, the modern side of Phnom Penh is developing alongside its historic landmarks.

Discover Cambodia's Royal Heritage

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is one of Phnom Penh's most recognisable landmarks and provides an impressive introduction to Cambodia's royal heritage.

Its elaborate Khmer architecture, glittering roofs, gardens, Throne Hall and Silver Pagoda make it an essential stop for first-time visitors.

Nearby, the National Museum of Cambodia provides another perspective on the country's past. Its extensive collection of Khmer sculpture, ceramics, bronzes and other cultural objects helps visitors understand the artistic traditions that shaped Cambodia.

Wat Phnom offers a different experience. Built on the city's most prominent natural hill, the temple is closely associated with the origins and identity of Phnom Penh.

Together, these attractions provide a fascinating introduction to the capital's history and culture.

Markets That Reveal Everyday Phnom Penh

Central Market

One of the pleasures of Phnom Penh is simply exploring its markets.

Central Market, known locally as Phsar Thmey, is both an architectural landmark and a working marketplace. Its distinctive Art Deco building, centred around a huge dome, contains stalls selling clothing, jewellery, food, souvenirs and a wide variety of everyday goods.

For a more local shopping experience, Tuol Tompoung Market, better known as the Russian Market, offers textiles, handicrafts, clothing, souvenirs and food amid the energetic atmosphere of a traditional Cambodian market.

Modern Phnom Penh offers another side of shopping, with contemporary malls bringing international brands, supermarkets, cinemas and restaurants to the city.

The contrast is part of the experience.

Understanding Cambodia's Recent History

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Phnom Penh's history is not entirely comfortable, and visitors should allow time to understand Cambodia's tragic recent past.

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, located at the former S-21 prison, and the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, commonly known as the Killing Fields, document the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge period between 1975 and 1979.

These are confronting places to visit, but they are important parts of understanding modern Cambodia.

They also provide context for the extraordinary resilience of the Cambodian people and the transformation of the country that visitors can see today.

Phnom Penh After Dark

Bassac Lane

As the temperature falls, Phnom Penh takes on a different character.

Restaurants, cafés and bars become busy, while the riverside becomes a popular place to stroll and dine.

Cambodian cuisine should be high on every visitor's list. Fish amok is one of the country's best-known dishes, but the city's dining scene now extends from traditional Khmer cooking to French, Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese and contemporary international cuisine.

Areas around BKK1, Bassac Lane and Langka Lane have developed into popular food and nightlife districts, while rooftop venues provide spectacular views over the increasingly illuminated city.

A City Worth Staying For

Shangri-La Phnom Penh pool

Phnom Penh is changing rapidly, but it has not lost the mixture of history, culture and everyday Cambodian life that makes it distinctive.

New hotels, including Shangri-La Phnom Penh, and high-rise developments are reshaping the skyline. Modern infrastructure is improving accessibility, while restaurants, cafés, galleries and shopping destinations are adding new energy.

Yet around every corner there can still be an old market, a small temple, a colonial building or a neighbourhood food stall.

That mixture is Phnom Penh's attraction.

Rather than treating the Cambodian capital as somewhere to spend a night before moving on, travellers should allow several days to explore it properly.

Phnom Penh is a city that reveals itself gradually — and the longer you stay, the more there is to discover.

A New Era of Confidence in Phnom Penh

Shangri-La Phnom Penh reflects a city that is becoming increasingly confident about its future.

From the 54th floor of Shangri-La, that transformation is impossible to miss.

The hotel provides more than a luxurious place to stay. It offers a high-rise perspective on a capital balancing its Khmer heritage with a rapidly modernising future.

Toum Tiou 2

And from that viewpoint, Phnom Penh looks like a city worth staying to discover. Phnom Penh is no longer simply somewhere to pass through.

It is somewhere to stay, and you will always be warmly welcomed by veteran Shangri-La General Manager, the affable Ody Odayappan and his professional and knowledgeable staff.

The Shangri-La Phnom Penh is the ideal base to stay before or after going on the the New Discovery Tour on the Mekong aboard the 14-cabin Toum Tiou 2. Discounts are available for 2026/27 cruises on the website www.cfmekong.com

Shangri-La Phnom Penh

Address: Village No 14, Sam Dach Hun Sen Road, Tonle Bassac Commune, Chamkarmorn District, Phnom Penh 120101 Cambodia
Phone: (855) 23 913 888
Website: https://www.shangri-la.com/phnompenh/shangrila/
E-mail: phnompenh@shangri-la.com

CF Mekong

Address: 313 Preah Sisowath Quay Office 20 Phnom Penh 12207 Cambodia

Phone: +855 (0)23 216 070
Website: https://cfmekong.com/

Email: office@cfmekong.com

*Written by John Savage and Grahame Cox

For more travel inspiration read the daily online “The Holiday and Travel Magazine”
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Treehouse Lodge Peru: Sleep Among the Treetops of the Amazon

Treehouse Lodge Peru

For travellers searching for a truly unique hotel in Peru, Treehouse Lodge offers an experience that is far removed from an ordinary rainforest holiday. Located deep in the Peruvian Amazon near Iquitos, the lodge allows guests to sleep high above the jungle floor, surrounded by the sights, sounds and wildlife of one of the world's great natural environments.

This remarkable all-inclusive Amazon rainforest lodge is built around the idea of experiencing the jungle from above, with individual treehouses connected by elevated walkways through the rainforest canopy.

A Hotel High Above the Jungle

Treehouse Lodge Peru

Treehouse Lodge sits on the Yarapa River at the confluence of the Yarapa and Cumaceba rivers, near the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. Its treehouses provide an unusual combination of adventure, comfort and immersion in nature.

Depending on the accommodation selected, guests can stay among the rainforest canopy with views of the surrounding jungle or river. Some treehouses are positioned several metres above the forest floor, providing a fascinating perspective over the Amazon.

Rather than waking to traffic or city noise, guests may hear birds calling through the canopy and, depending on conditions and location, spot wildlife moving through the surrounding trees.

The lodge has no Wi-Fi or mobile phone service, making it an ideal escape for travellers wanting to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with nature.

An All-Inclusive Amazon Experience

Treehouse Lodge Peru

Treehouse Lodge makes exploring the rainforest straightforward by including excursions in its accommodation experience. Guests can choose from a range of activities designed to reveal different aspects of the Amazon environment.

Experiences can include wildlife excursions, canoe trips, kayaking, jungle exploration, village visits, fishing and nighttime searches for wildlife such as caimans.

A highlight is the elevated canopy experience, where raised walkways provide another perspective of the rainforest. The lodge currently promotes 18 included excursions, allowing guests to tailor their Amazon adventure to their interests.

The all-inclusive experience also includes transportation between Iquitos Airport and the lodge, three meals each day, bottled water and juice at breakfast, and an English- or Spanish-speaking guide.

Getting to Treehouse Lodge

Reaching this unusual Amazon rainforest hotel is part of the adventure. Travellers first fly to Iquitos, a city in the Peruvian Amazon that has no road connection to the outside world.

Treehouse Lodge then arranges the approximately two-and-a-half-hour transfer from Iquitos to the property, combining road and private river transport. Airport transfers are scheduled around arriving flights, so travellers should plan their flight carefully.

Explore Iquitos Before or After Your Stay

Treehouse Lodge Peru

A stay at Treehouse Lodge can easily be combined with time in Iquitos.

The city's historic Plaza de Armas is a good starting point for exploring its distinctive architecture and atmosphere. The famous Iron House, an unusual prefabricated iron building associated with the city's rubber boom, is another fascinating attraction.

Visitors can also enjoy Amazonian cuisine in Iquitos and explore the waterfront before heading deeper into the rainforest.

When to Visit Treehouse Lodge

June to October is an excellent period for travellers planning an Amazon adventure, although the rainforest offers different experiences throughout the year.

For anyone seeking a genuinely unique hotel stay, Treehouse Lodge combines treetop accommodation, wildlife encounters, river adventures and the tranquillity of the Amazon into an experience that is difficult to replicate anywhere else.

Treehouse Lodge

Website: www.treehouselodge.com
Email: bookings@treehouselodge.com
Phone: +1 801 210 9350
Address: Yarapa River Nauta, Loreto PE16300, Peru.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Sleep Like Royalty at Taj Lake Palace: Udaipur’s Magical Island Hotel

Taj Lake Palace Udaipur

For travellers searching for a truly unique hotel in India, few places can match the extraordinary Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur. Rising from the middle of Lake Pichola, this magnificent white-marble palace combines royal history, luxurious accommodation and spectacular views to create one of Rajasthan’s most memorable hotel experiences.

The journey begins before guests even reach their room. Taj Lake Palace is situated on a private island, with access by boat from the City Palace jetty. The short crossing across Lake Pichola provides a dramatic introduction to a stay that feels more like entering a royal palace than checking into a hotel.

A Palace in the Middle of Lake Pichola

Taj Lake Palace Udaipur

Built in 1746 as a summer retreat for Maharana Jagat Singh II, the palace has become one of Udaipur’s most recognisable landmarks. Its elegant white-marble architecture appears to float on the lake, framed by the Aravalli Hills and the historic City Palace on the opposite shore.

Today, guests can experience the grandeur once reserved for royalty. The accommodation combines traditional Rajasthani design with luxury, while attentive butler service adds to the feeling of a personalised royal escape.

The unique island setting also creates a sense of tranquillity. Although Udaipur’s colourful streets and historic attractions are close by, the palace provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by water.

Luxury Experiences with a Royal Touch

Taj Lake Palace Udaipur

A stay at Taj Lake Palace is about more than a beautiful room. Guests can enjoy experiences that showcase Rajasthan’s culture and traditions, including astrology sessions, yoga and evening performances.

One of the most memorable experiences is a boat cruise on Lake Pichola, particularly around sunset. As the light fades across the lake, the palace, City Palace and surrounding hills take on a magical appearance.

For travellers seeking romantic hotels in India, luxury hotels in Rajasthan or unusual places to stay in Udaipur, the combination of history, location and personalised experiences makes Taj Lake Palace particularly special.

Discover the Royal City of Udaipur

Taj Lake Palace Udaipur

The hotel’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring Udaipur. Across the water, the vast City Palace complex tells the story of the region’s Mewar rulers. Developed over almost 400 years, the complex features grand courtyards, ceremonial halls and collections of royal artefacts.

Beyond the palace, explore Udaipur’s atmospheric old city, where narrow lanes lead towards Jagdish Temple. The surrounding streets are filled with miniature painting studios, textile shops and food stalls offering local favourites such as dal kachori and jalebi.

Returning to Taj Lake Palace after exploring the city provides a striking contrast: the lively streets of Udaipur give way to the calm waters of Lake Pichola and the serenity of the island palace.

When to Visit Taj Lake Palace

Taj Lake Palace Udaipur

October to March is an ideal period to plan a visit to Udaipur, offering a popular season for exploring Rajasthan and enjoying the city’s outdoor attractions.

Travellers fly into Maharana Pratap Airport before transferring to the City Palace jetty. From there, the hotel’s boat transfer provides the only way to reach the island, with the crossing taking approximately five minutes.

For an unforgettable Indian holiday, Taj Lake Palace offers something few hotels can: the opportunity to stay inside a genuine historic palace surrounded by one of Rajasthan’s most beautiful lakes.

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Website: https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/hotels/taj-lake-palace-udaipur
Phone: +91 294 242 8800
Address: Pichola Lake, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, India

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Sleep in the Sky: Crane Hotel Faralda Is Amsterdam’s Ultimate Unique Hotel Stay

Crane Hotel Faralda

For travellers searching for a truly unique hotel in Amsterdam, there are few places more extraordinary than Crane Hotel Faralda. Perched high above the IJ at Amsterdam’s NDSM Wharf, this remarkable hotel transforms a restored harbour crane into an exclusive luxury stay unlike almost any other in the world.

Rather than checking into a conventional Amsterdam hotel, guests arrive at an industrial landmark and sleep high above the city in one of just three individually designed suites. It is a hotel experience where architecture, adventure, luxury and spectacular views come together.

A Hotel Inside a Historic Crane

Crane Hotel Faralda

Faralda Crane Hotel occupies a monumental harbour crane at NDSM, one of Amsterdam’s most distinctive creative districts. The hotel features three vertically stacked suites: Free Spirit, Secret Suite and Mystique.

Each suite extends across two levels, with the accommodation positioned more than 45 metres above the IJ. The result is a dramatic sense of elevation, with Amsterdam unfolding below and the waterfront stretching into the distance.

For travellers looking for unusual hotels in Amsterdam, sleeping inside a crane is certainly a memorable alternative to a traditional canal-side hotel.

A Rooftop Jacuzzi Above Amsterdam

The experience reaches another level at Faralda’s rooftop jacuzzi, positioned approximately 50 metres above the NDSM yard.

The heated rooftop jacuzzi provides spectacular 360-degree views across the IJ, Amsterdam’s skyline and the surrounding waterfront. Access is reserved for guests staying in the three Faralda suites, creating an exclusive experience high above the city.

Imagine relaxing in warm water while looking across Amsterdam from the top of a harbour crane. It is the kind of hotel experience that becomes a highlight of the entire trip.

Discover Amsterdam’s Creative NDSM Wharf

Crane Hotel Faralda

Faralda’s location adds another dimension to the stay. NDSM is a former shipyard transformed into a creative cultural area, making Amsterdam North an intriguing destination for travellers wanting to explore beyond the traditional city centre.

The ferry connection from Amsterdam Central Station provides an easy and memorable way to reach the area. Once across the IJ, visitors can explore NDSM and then return to the city centre to discover Amsterdam’s museums, canals, historic streets and famous attractions.

The Rijksmuseum and other major Amsterdam attractions are readily accessible as part of a wider city itinerary.

When to Stay at Crane Hotel Faralda

Crane Hotel Faralda

May to September is an appealing period for a stay, particularly for travellers wanting to enjoy the outdoor rooftop jacuzzi and longer daylight hours.

Faralda is not a conventional hotel with dozens of rooms. Its three-suite format makes it an intimate and highly distinctive accommodation choice, while bookings are handled by request and invitation.

For a romantic getaway, special celebration or once-in-a-lifetime Amsterdam adventure, Crane Hotel Faralda offers an experience that is difficult to replicate.

Crane Hotel Faralda

Website: https://www.faralda.com/
Email: info@faralda.com
Phone: +31 (0)20 760 6161
Address: NDSM-Plein 78, 1033 WB Amsterdam, The Netherlands

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The St. Regis Singapore Unveils a Reimagined Presidential Suite

The St. Regis Singapore

The St. Regis Singapore has unveiled its newly reimagined Presidential Suite, introducing an exceptional new expression of contemporary luxury residential living in the heart of Singapore.

Perched on the hotel's top floor, the 335-square-metre Presidential Suite combines biophilic design, bespoke artistry, sustainable innovation and the personalised service of St. Regis Butler Service.

Inspired by the organic beauty and botanical richness of the nearby Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the newly transformed suite has been designed as an exclusive private sanctuary for discerning luxury travellers.

A New Vision of Modern Luxury

The St. Regis Singapore

The Presidential Suite represents the final chapter of The St. Regis Singapore's comprehensive guestroom transformation.

Designed by acclaimed design firm FBEYE International, the residence expands on the hotel's biophilic residential concept, introducing richer colours, layered textures and custom architectural details on a grander scale.

Bi-fold louvred doors create a sense of fluidity between the living, dining and study areas, allowing the residence to adapt effortlessly from a private retreat to an entertaining space for intimate gatherings and celebrations.

A Dramatic Entrance

The experience begins in the foyer, where a custom illuminated installation inspired by cascading flowers creates an atmospheric welcome.

Textured glass craftsmanship combined with integrated lighting produces a soft glow reminiscent of a botanical garden surrounded by morning mist.

The design establishes the suite's central connection with nature before guests enter its expansive living spaces.

Living, Dining and Entertaining

The St. Regis Singapore

The Living Salon forms the social heart of the Presidential Suite, linking the Dining Room, Media Room and private balcony through an open-plan design.

A textured glass chandelier provides a striking centrepiece, while sculptural contemporary furniture introduces tactile finishes and comfort. A baby grand piano adds an artistic focal point.

The suite also reflects the St. Regis legacy of art and culture through lithographs by acclaimed twentieth-century artists including Sam Francis, Marc Chagall and Mark Tobey.

The Dining Room has been designed for both intimate meals and grand entertaining, centred around a bespoke Palissandro marble dining table. A custom bar trolley provides flexibility, allowing cocktails to be served throughout the residence.

A Private Master Retreat

The Master Retreat provides a tranquil space separated from the suite's entertaining areas.

A king-sized bed is framed by a custom bedhead inspired by the graceful form of the willow tree, creating a cocoon-like atmosphere for relaxation.

A spacious walk-in wardrobe connects the bedroom with the Master Bath, which has been transformed into a private wellness sanctuary featuring a Jacuzzi soaking tub, double vanity, glass-enclosed shower and distinctive botanical detailing.

Luxury with a Sustainable Approach

The St. Regis Singapore

Sustainability has been incorporated throughout the Presidential Suite without compromising its luxury character.

Motion-activated technology automatically places air-conditioning and lighting into energy-saving mode when the suite is unoccupied. Eco-certified materials and low-VOC finishes support indoor air quality, while responsibly selected timber and certified carpets contribute to the suite's environmental approach.

In the Master Bath, existing Breche de Benou marble has been preserved and combined with a curved thermoformable engineered feature wall, reducing material waste while retaining elements of the property's heritage.

A New Presidential Address in Singapore

The newly reimagined Presidential Suite offers luxury travellers an expansive private residence combining sophisticated design, art, wellness and personalised hospitality.

With its nature-inspired interiors, sustainable innovations and signature St. Regis Butler Service, the suite provides a distinctive base from which to experience Singapore.

Rates for the Presidential Suite start from SGD 12,000 per night.

The St. Regis Singapore

Website: www.stregissingapore.com
Phone: +65 6506 6888
Address: 29 Tanglin Road, Singapore 247911

Reservations for the Presidential Suite are available through The St. Regis Singapore.

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