If you approach Porto Santo by air, the whole island seems a glorious-golden yellow against the glistening cobalt blue sea. The island is known as ‘painting made by god’ and is 46 km to the northeast of Madeira in the Atlantic Ocean. The island tending to remind of North Africa, rather than Europe – a starkly beautiful desert landscape of palm trees and cacti, dotted with pine groves and small wheatfields. Photo by: Tiagoto

The island is only 14 km long and 5 km wide with an incredible golden san beach, stretching 9 km along the south coast. Photo by: fernangar

The islander survive largely by fishing, subsistence farming and goat-herding, using donkeys for transport and oxen to tresh the grain. The main town Vila Baleira on the sout coast is a beautiful cluster of white-washed houses with medieval monuments, and small cafes, where you can hide in the shade of palm trees watching the fishing boats. This is one of the least developed beach resort in Europe – an unspoilt island paradise. Photo by: ctcsherry

When to go: February to October but if you taking children avoid July and August when the island is invaded by families. Population: 4,474. Getting there: Daily car ferry or fly from Madeira. You should know: The golden sand of Porto Santo is said to have therapeutic treatments. Photo by: f_araujo_abreu

Photo by: PLSeabra

The Chausey Islands are located in the English Channel, south of Jersey, but are not generally included in the geographical definition of the Channel Islands, though geologically they join with them to form a larger archipelago. The islands are popular with French visitors and almost ignored by the English – there is no ferry Chausey and other islands. Photo by: asalha

This archipelago is little more than a cluster of grey granite lumps just above the sea surface. Subject to one of the highest tidal variation in the world, it is said that there are 365 islands at low tide and 52 in high tide. Awesome! Fierce sea currents create a multitude of rocky inlets, linked by vast sandy stretches. Photo by: vatch2006

Only the island, Grand Ile support any population. Cars and bicycles are banned, so the pace of life is pedestrian in the best sense of the word. Even in summer time the facilities on the island are limited, so the best way to enjoy the ever changing landscape is with a good pair of boots and a packed lunch. A coastal path encircled the island and formed good beach access. Photo by: monsieurson

When to go: June to September. Population: Winter 10, Summer, 100. Getting there: By ferry (summer only) from Saint – Malo or Granville. You should know: The local seafood is fantastic and fresh, try the lobster, mussels and oysters. Sailing through the archipelago many islets. Photo by: Naonerd

Photo by: ninifantasy

Rugen is the largest of Germany’s islands, nearly 1,000 sq km with 570 km long wiggling coastline of steep cliffs and broad, shallow inlets. It is a picture-book paradise of white cliffs, wide sandy beaches, wood and moorland with romantic castles, old churches and old-fashioned towns of fin de siecle villas. Photo by: mario_65

The main town is called Sassnitz, the ‘Gateway to Scandinavia‘. It is a colourful port with the longest seawall in Europe, a 1,450 m long mole where you can spend hours watching the boats come in – from passenger liners to fishing skiffs. Nearby is Jasmund National Park where the sheer chalk cliffs with their extraordinary charm, plunge dramatically into the sea. Behind the dense beech forest, there is unusually diverse woodland including wild apples and pears. There are several idyllic resorts dotted around the coast in the south east – old spa town with incredible clean beaches. Photo by: rhewson630@rogers.com

In contrast to the woods and hills of the eastern site, is a low-lying area of saltmarsh wetlands, tidal flats and peat bog with an incredible variety of flora and fauna. The lagoons there are heaven of thousands of migrating cranes. Photo by: nahaase

When to go: Rugen is beautiful at any time of year. The tourist season is April to October. Population: 73,000. Getting there: By boat – either across the Strelasund on the car ferry from Stahlbrode to Glewitz, or across the Baltic from Scandinavia. Photo by: eagle-ffm

Photo by: elpolam

Noorderlicht is an old dock place, used by 250 artists working in the fields of theater, film, media, architecture and design. The place is both cafe & restaurant and also a little getaway from the city. Especially when the weather is holding up, it’s a perfect way to spend a late afternoon contemplating your day in Amsterdam on the terrace overlooking the IJ and part of the city center.

The staff is very informal, laid back and friendly, but not particularly speedy when it’s busy. The food is always fresh, healthy and delicious. The menu changes with the seasons and offers a variety of prices, so you can decide if you want to stay on a budget or splurge a little. The desserts are to die for, especially the plum tarte tatin and hangop pudding with rhubarb sauce.

Getting there: An absolute must! From the new Aanmeersteiger behind Central Station, where the big ferry to Amsterdam Noord-establishes, leaves a NDSM ferry to the wharf. Hence it is five minutes walk to Northern Lights. Over 50 more after arriving straight and then turn right at the NDSM. Walk 300 meter straight to the sheds on your left. At the end you see right to a transparent dome ‘t IJ. Just make sure you don’t miss the last ferry back to civilization. Ferries operate daily at 12:00 till 22:00.

Atzaro is a century old family finca converted into luxurious accommodations with a cutting edge gastronomical restaurant and a blissful spa. It is nestled secretly in its own orange grove stands with an oasis of rest, where the flavours of orange blossom, rosemary and lavender mix to indulge your senses. It’s a luxury getaway for anyone looking for the more natural side of Ibiza.

The Atzaro offers a wide range of facilities and services as well as it’s wonderful landscaped gardens, with many fountains and private chill-out corners which make this 10 hectare estate and grove an ideal venue for self indulgence and an outstanding setting for any event.

There are reatment temples, couples or individuals, feature beautifully hand crafted ceilings and decor exquisitely accented with rich tropical woods, reflecting an Asian design philosophy carefully blended with Arabian and Ibizencan influences. The Spa facilities features Sauna, Hamm am (Turkish bath), gym, and a 43-meter lap pool. In a separate temple guests may exercise open classes or private sessions offering fitness at its best.

The cuisine has great respect for using the finest and freshest ingredients and produce, a combination of vibrant, cutting edge flavours, great ambience, friendly but yet professional service, an extensive wine list and exquisite surroundings make the restaurant a truly memorable experience.

Their rooms are divided between the old finca with it’s classical Ibizencan architecture. Both mix a sanctuary of open spaces and beauty where one can enjoy peaceful moments. All rooms have their private terraces (some have romantic fireplaces and skylights) with private plunge pool, fountains and outside daybed.

The Ibiza Rocks Hotel is situated in the centre of San Antonio, just 300m from the beach. The team of the hotel took over one of the largest hotels with the intention of revamping it, celebrating the glory of rock, naturally. There are 2 outdoor pools, 4 bars including the Electric and Back Stage bars, Ibiza Rocks Shop selling an amazing range of Ibiza Rocks merchandise and an on site supermarket.

This year are their pool and stage view rooms – book one of these babies for you and your friends and you can enjoy the Tuesday night live shows from the comfort and privacy of your very own balcony. Gig tickets are included with all of these premium rooms.

Most of the guests are 18-24 year old Brits who’ve come for a party, so don’t expect peace and quiet. In addition to the constant entertainment, there’s a large gaming room courtesy of X-box, and the consoles can be rented for in-room use. If you’re game for some action and sleep is not a priority, Ibiza Rocks Hotel is in the heart of the action. Rooms are higher grade furnishings with twin beds in the main lounge, a double terrace with pool view, plasma screen TV, fresh fruit and flowers on arrival and maid service and fresh towels 6 days per week.

When to go: June to September. Getting there: Fly to Ibiza, then car/bus to  San Antonio. The hotel is at only 300m from the beach and sunset bars.

Es Verde is a magical rock and one of the most fascinating attraction on Earth,  holding an age-old mystical and spiritual aura. The rock is first sight upon entering Hotel Calador, the rock spreads its magnetism, making the hotel a difficult thing to part with. Landhotel Calador is a small country-style hotel, the symbol of Ibiza Island. You reach the quiet sandy beach of Cala Carbo in a short walking distance.

The owner Claudia Schubert and her staff have created a charming atmosphere, catering to those that want to enjoy the beauty of the island without the price tag. The hotel offers various room sizes ranging from comfortable one bedrooms to a two-story tower studio with a roof terrace, the one thing they all share is the breathtaking view. Also a bar and restaurant, a lovely palm-garden and a big swimmingpool with seperate children’s pool, a tennis court and free parking facility are at guest’s disposal.

Cala Carbo Beach, where the hotel is sited is one of Ibiza’s most private little beaches. The beach is a combination of sand and pebbles that shelves gently into clear water. The rocky coastline that extends from the sand is great for kids, while fishing off the small jetty is a more tranquil activity.

Getting there: Fly to Ibiza, then you reach, San José and San Antonio in a few miles. A rental car is recommended. Aslo follow signposts from San Antonio or San José, direction Cala Tarida and Cala Vadella.

The new extravagant hotel Roomz is a fresh spot for nightlife and meeting point for modern people who want to experience dynamic, sophisticated and affordable city life whether travelling for business or pleasure. In “Roomz” you will find a cool design in spatial dynamics, innovative architecture and ingenious functionality, as well as a multitude of amenities for a reasonable price.   

The hotel has 312 beds with ideal location in the heart of the new Wiener Gasometers business and office centre. The “Roomz Vienna” offers extraordinary holiday for business travellers with relaxing atmosphere and a lot of comfort. The hotel offers excellent travel connections, high-speed internet access, air conditioning, flat-screen televisions in the rooms and a large parking garage – amenities required by today’s travellers.

The hotel was built in nine months. Dynamic times naturally lead to dynamic developments. This factor is reflected in the astonishing pace of construction of the “Roomz Vienna”. On 6 June 2007, less than a year after breaking ground, the hotel was opened with highly motivated and keen personnel. The hotel will absolutely pique the senses of “people in motion”, thanks to the archisphere architects group – architects & designers with Gabriel  Kacerovsky.

Getting there: It is located near the Gasometer, an architecturally interesting residential and shopping complex housed in gigantic old gas containers, so guests won’t feel so isolated out here in Simmering. But no worries, the subway takes you straight into the heart of the city.

Centrale Bibliotheek (OBA) in Amsterdam is not just an ordinary library. Sure it has everything that one bibliotheek should have – an extensive collection of books, a quiet atmosphere and plenty of places to study or read. Yet, the largest library in the Benelux offers much, much more.

Very close to the Central Station, the Central Library opened its doors in 2007, and become the most visited cultural organization in Amsterdam with 2.5 million visitors a year. You can easily spend the whole day here: study at one of the 600 computers (or use the free wireless internet); have a drink at one of the coffee corners while enjoying a magazine or paper from the extensive selection; check out the art exhibitions in the spacious hall; or go the restaurant on the top floor—breathtaking views included in every meal.

The library has 7 floors, creatively designed by Jo Coenen. With its 28,000 square meteres, it offers the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle of the city and soak up some well-deserved knowledge.

How to get there: the Central Library can be reached by public transport, using all metros, trams and buses terminating at Amsterdam Central Station or by bike via the bicycle bridge (left by the pedestrian quay to Nemo). You will see the library at the end of the bridge. Just past the library, you will see the secure bicycle storage.

Chiva-Som, meaning Haven of Life, is located in the south of Hua Hin, Thailand,  is a three-hour drive from Bangkok. The resort  is surrounded by tropical gardens and next to an idyllic beach on the Gulf of Thailand. Chiva-Som provides a comprehensive range of spa, medical and fitness programs that combine the very best of Thai hospitality and Western-style treatments.

The resort offers privacy and seclusion with only 57 elegant Thai-style pavilions, Ocean View rooms and suites.They offer private balconies or terraces for drinking in the fresh air and relaxing atmosphere, and listening to the softly lapping sea.

There are many fitness activities including t’ai chi, pilates, health and beauty workshops and holistic programmes that incorporate forms of traditional Chinese medicine.

Specialty Activities: Xi Gong, Thai Boxing; yoga, aqua aerobic and water fitness classes; physiotherapy services; naturopathic consultation, iridology-diagnosis through the eyes.

Restaurants at the resort include the Emerald Room- an international spa cuisine restaurant and the Taste of Siam – a restaurant by the beach serving Thai spa cuisine. Spa Cuisine- Detoxifying, fat and salt-free cuisine incorporates local herbs and spices.

Outdoor Options: Outdoor pool, Biking, Tennis, Sea Kayaking, outdoor training, golf, sightseeing and guided tours.

Hotel St Martins Lane is a dramatic and daring reinvention of the urban resort. Entered through improbably tall, luminescent yellow-glass revolving doors—the tallest in London—St Martins Lane’s lobby is a soaring and theatrical space that offers a provocative manipulation with oversized columns and angled niches painted a deep fluorescent yellow, complemented by Portuguese limestone floors.

The hotels features meeting room hire, arrival fruit juices, yoghurt and granola shots, working lunch, afternoon fruit teas, fruit skewers and mineral water.

Most of the light-saturated bedrooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows and impressive views; a few suites even flaunt lush private gardens fragranted by orange trees. The Covent Garden hotel offers surprisingly good packages on their website, especially considering its list of amenities which includes a full gym and two restaurants. And though it caters to the more average Joe these days, even we have to admit: the Light Bar is still pretty damn cool.

At Martins Lane also features an Executive Boardroom with 24-hour multilingual secretarial staff available upon request, additional multi-use meeting spaces, and state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. Plasma monitors for audio-visual playback, smart boards, electronic flip charts, portable computers, mobile phones and fax machines are also available upon request.

One of the best feature, which St Martins Lane offers is the Back Room, available for private functions, is a beautifully tranquil space lined in seamless white marble and featuring a zen-like wall of bubbling water. Its simple, streamlined elegance provides the perfect backdrop for a wide variety of private uses. Also available for special functions are the hotel’s acclaimed Asia de Cuba restaurant, Penthouse and Apartment.

Hispaniola is the second-largest island in the Caribbean, separated into French-speaking Haiti and Spanish-speaking Domenican Republic. Hispaniola is geographically and ecologically astounding, in addition to having all the first-class attributes of sub-tropical climate demanded by northern snowbirds in search of a parasol-shaded daiquiri. Photo by: Pericles1492

The island has very rich flora and fauna, matching higher mountains and more varied ecologies, but both Haiti and DR are poverty-stricken and over-populated, and still suffering the consequences of civil strife and exploitation. So the choice here is, taking your pleasures in the resorts, or taking an interest in the wildly different cultures beyond them. Photo by: PhotoGregS

Hispaniolans share fantastic forms of music; vibrant colours in their art, clothes and dance; and deep spirituality expressed in every way from denominational churches to voodoo to animism. But Haiti is Afro-Caribbean, its European influences submerged since the first slave rebellion; while DR is just a decade or so, is on its way to becoming West-Indian American, another Puero-Rico. Photo by: StGrundy

On Hispaniola culture is way more intriguing then the admittedly marvelous beach life. The 16th century cathedrals, fort and cobbled streets of Santo Domingo’s Ciudad Colonial, beautifully preserved and now set with cafes, lively bars and restaurants. Photo by: saúl santana (Away)

Grass is a lovely spot to sip a colorful, tropical bottle surrounded by dense flora in Miami. Grass is 2 in 1 – lounge and restaurant, relax and eat, accompanied with quality chill music. A variety of substantial flower buds and plant specimens float in lit jars behind the bar, and the open air setting’s breezes rustle palm fronds overhead.

A variety of substantial flower buds and plant specimens float in lit jars behind the bar, and the open air setting’s breezes rustle palm fronds overhead. As well as favouring break beat and Michael Jackson, DJs have been known to fill its dance floor. The late-night party continues at their adjoining club, The King is Dead.

Grass Restaurant & Lounge is located on 28NE 40 Street, Miami Florida!

Once Das Triest was a former coach station on the route from Vienna to Trieste. Today renovation converted the property into a unique, luxury design hotel. Hotel Das Triest is situated in the heart of Vienna, about 10 minutes from St. Stephen’s Cathedral. It is designed by Sir Terence Conran with an overall unity which is warm and inviting. It is accompanied by a carefully chosen tailored selection of furnishing materials.

The hotel has 72 rooms, which immediately trnsport to guests a sense of Viennese flair through their lovely design. The suites offers 70 square meters of living space and are so popular that they have already become an insider tip within an ever widening circle of design hotel enthusiasts.

Das Triest can provide meeting space to 120 people in two naturally-lit, air-conditioned conference rooms. As well as the 70-seat restaurant Collio serves modern northern Italian cuisine. The Silver Bar offers chill music and lovely warm lighting.
There are fitness center with sauna and solarium and 3 spectacular gardens.

Each room has Satellite TV, VCR, phone and fax connection, NOKIA wireless LAN providing free internet on the guest’s personal laptop.

Cross-vaulted rooms give the building a distinctive flair, but rooms are casually broken up by Conran’s solid colour blocks of reds, yellows and royal blues, be it for the carpeting or the upholstered armchairs. Great care was also taken in selecting and pairing designer pieces by a host of renowned manufacturers and designers including Conran himself, B&B Italia and Casa Milano.

Alila Cha-Am is a tropical paradise situated in the charming coastal town of Cha-Am, on the north west coast of the Gulf of Thailand. This luxurious beachside resort is designed to be a sophisticated and contemporary lifestyle destination. From the grand entrance stairway to the rooftop reflecting pool, every detail is understated yet unforgettable. The Horizon rooms, Garden Terrace rooms and Pool Villas are conceived as personal retreats – spacious and elegant.

Originally a fishing village, Cha-Am offers a relaxed pace of life, and a more tranquil atmosphere than neighbouring Hua Hin beach. Its main appeal is its clean, white sand beach, which is thought to be the longest in Thailand, and which is where you will find a choice of excellent seafood restaurants.

The moment you arrived at  Alila Cha-Am, you can almost imagine you have the place to yourself. The innovative architecture includes bold shapes and clean lines softened by the palette of naturally-aged woods, limestone and subtle marble finishes. It’s a stimulating and sensual combination that gives a distinctive contemporary edge to this tropical resort.

Alila Cha-Am offers 72 Horizon Rooms and Garden Terrace Rooms and 7 Private Pool Villas, you can choose how secluded or connected you want to be without even stepping out of your room. The rooms and villas offer both indoor and outdoor privacy that invite you to while away the day, cooled by the gentle sea breezes. Each own-suite has stylish furniture and fabrics beautifully reflect the Thai heritage,  fully integrated wifi capabilities, large flatscreen TV, Apple TV featuring music and film collections, and mood lighting, you can tune in or out to your heart’s content.

The hotel also has a collection of two signature restaurants: Motion and Clouds Loft, Spa Alila (with 2 double treatment rooms, 2 single treatment rooms and 1 double Thai massage room centred around a thermal pool) and a Library with a modern selection of current magazines, novels and reference books.

How to get there: Alila Cha-Am lies on the premier beach resort of Petchabur, 163 km south of Bangkok and 26 km north of Hua Hin. Fly to Bangkok and then a leisurely drive from takes about 2.5 hours. Highlights: the landscape here is characterised by dense jungles and mountain ranges. Activities, there is much variety, from champagne picnics on the beach to energetic pursuits such as water sports and cycling.Take a tour of the ancient temples and pagodas that dot the surrounding area. Or pay a visit to the summer palace of King Rama VI.