6 Hotels Worth Travelling Across the World to Stay in

There are few hotels in the world that aren’t just a getaway from the world but destinations in their own way. If you are searching for your next vacation stay, check out these hotels:

1. Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

Once home to the British planters, this Colonial-era hotel is all about “attention-to-detail” This Colonial property still retains its original Victorian charm and takes you straight back to the Raj-era. The special Colonial suites are carefully preserved and are soaked in Colonial flavours. If you are newly married, you can also check their Honeymoon Suites. Windamere Hotel is known for its amazing hospitality and warmth. If you are looking for hotels in Darjeeling near Mall, then head straightaway to the Windamere Hotel.

2. The Dewberry, South Carolina
This place was once a mid-century office building that later turned into a hotel. The sleek decor of this place, embellished with thought-provoking art carries a vintage touch. The amenities include a rooftop terrace, valet parking, spa, fitness centre, ballroom and walled garden, and fieldshop boutiques.

3. Ett Hem, Stockholm

This hotel is housed in a mansion that was built in 1910 and the design is a blend of Vintage and Scandinavian flavour. The name Ett Hem means “home.” Best known for its immaculate service, Ett Hem is more about comfort and cosiness than luxury.

4. Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Cote d’Azur

This 19th- century mansion has 117 luxurious rooms and two villas. These villas are decorated with the 18th century Louis XV and XVI furnishings, chandeliers, and gilded mirrors. This magnificent hotel is surrounded by vast stretches of landscaped garden and has five clay tennis court, a seawater pool that is cut into a natural rock formation, and a Sisley spa. They also offer 33 beach cabins. The guest list includes names such as Johnny Weissmuller, Marc Chagall, and Roger Moore.

5. Ballyfin, County Laois

Standing on its own 614-acre demesne, Ballyfin is Ireland’s one of the most lavish neoclassical property. The entire piece of land is full of many delights such as a vast lake, walled garden, water cascade and Victorian fernery. The ambience and hospitality of the hotel will give you a taste of Irish warmth. The decor boasts beautiful antiques and paintings and all amenities to make your stay comfortable. Each bedroom of this place has a design that resembles the classic Irish country house style.

Honeymooning in India: 7 Destinations to Consider

So you had a fairytale wedding and planning for an equally memorable honeymoon? You do not need to head straight to Thailand or Switzerland. There are lots of places in India that are famous for their scenic beauty, salubrious weather, and great local experiences. Check this list:

1. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Plan your own “Aradhana” moment as you hum the song to your beloved whilst cherishing the toy train ride. Feast your eyes on the majestic views of the Kanchenjunga or feel the local vibe at The Mall Road; the misty pine-shrouded landscape of Darjeeling is blissfully romantic. If you are looking for honeymoon hotels in Darjeeling, do not forget to soak the Colonial vibe of the “Queen of Hills”,  at the Windamere Hotel. This hotel was once used by the British Planters and still retains that old- world charm. You can stay at their cottages and honeymoon suite, which are prepared and offered especially for honeymooners. If you are planning a winter honeymoon, do not miss the Christmas week celebrations at the Windamere Hotel, the only authentic Colonial hotel in Darjeeling. This year “The Totties” from the West End Stage District in London will be performing at the Windamere Hotel.

2. Agumbe, Karnataka

Spending idyllic days admiring the nature while sipping endless cups of coffee and talking sweet nothings with your beloved – sounds like an ideal honeymoon? Agumbe is as pretty as a picture. Also known as the Cherrapunji of the South, Agumbe is home to beautiful waterfalls such as Jogimundi and Barkana. Do not forget to visit the beautiful Sunset view point and explore the Kodachadri hills.

3. Udaipur, Rajasthan

With its majestic forts and palatial architecture, there’s something in this lake city that will make you fall in love with it. A boat ride on the stunning Lake Pichola should be there on your honeymoon to-do list. And so is a private boat dinner. A walk down the heritage retreat and places such as Jag Mandir, City Palace, and the city streets will take the romance a notch up.

4. Shillong, Meghalaya

Let your romance buzz with the endless song of nature as you lose yourself amongst the infinite greenery, misty hills, serpentine roads, and the picturesque waterfalls. Trying the traditional North-eastern delicacy is pretty obvious here. And so is letting your eyes relish the visual feast. When in the Scotland of the East, a visit to the insanely beautiful Umiam Lake is a must. Also, take the David Scott’s trail from Mawphlong.

Experience Raj Era: Stay in these Colonial Hotels

There are few Colonial hotels in India that carefully preserves history while delivering unswerving luxury. Check out these places across India that will make you nostalgic with their Colonial charm:

1. Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

Previously known as Ada Villa, this is the only authentic British Colonial hotel in Darjeeling. During the Colonial era, the British planters occupied this place. Even today, the carefully preserved Windamere Hotel retains its Victorian charm and elegance. If you are planning to visit Darjeeling and want to experience the Colonial nostalgia, then book your stay at the Windamere Hotel. And if you are visiting during Christmas, then you can’t miss their Christmas week celebrations. Each year, performers from the famous West End Theatre District, London entertain the audience. This year, “The Totties” will be performing at the Windamere Hotel.

2. Ayisha Manzil, Kerala

Overlooking the Arabian Sea, this beautiful Colonial retreat is located in the coastal town Thalassery. This town once served as a trading hub and has an important place in Kerala’s rich history. So does Ayisha Manzil. This place was built in 1862 by Murdoch Brown and was known as the Judges Bungalow. The hotel has a Victorian architectural style and is best known for its untouched antique charm.

3. The Claridges Nabha Residence, Mussoorie

Surrounded by the silver oak forests, this cosy cottage-style luxury hotel was the former summer retreat of the former Maharaja of Nabha. This place has once entertained Maharajas, Rajas, and British dignitaries and still preserves that splendour of the Colonial era. It has 22 luxury rooms and each room is equipped with all modern comforts.

4. Fernhills Royale Palace, Tamil Nadu

This place was once the summer residence of the Maharaja of Mysore. The architecture of this 1844 building resembles a Chalet. In the mid-1860s, the palace was turned into a country club. And the British used this palace as their summer retreat.

5. Divan’s Bungalow, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

This 19th-century haveli was the residence of the Divan of Radhanpur. This 150 years old structure was revamped very carefully so as to retain its original charm. The décor of the hotel is a blend of style and comfort. It has 5 suites and 3 rooms. Each unit of this place has a different theme, colour scheme, and entrance. It also has an exquisite dining area that serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

Experience Genuine Warmth & Hospitality in These Colonial Hotels

There are several Colonial hotels across the globe that are famous for their unmatched hospitality and warmth. With their stunning structures, intricate design details, these places leave no stone unturned when it comes to making their guests feel like royals. Here’s our picks of the Colonial hotels from all across the globe:

1. Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling, India

Reflecting a true romantic and Colonial flavour, the Windamere Hotel is the only authentic Colonial Hotel in the Darjeeling Hills. The hotel staff and management always treat you as “private family guests” and will do everything possible to make you feel at home. If you are planning to celebrate Christmas in India and if you are travelling to Darjeeling at that time, then a staying at the Windamere Hotel is a must. Every year the Windamere Hotel organises Christmas week celebrations and Invites popular entertainers from the West End Theatre District in London. This year, the celebrations are going to be special as “The Totties” will be performing at the Windamere Hotel. Do not miss this opportunity and book your stay today!

2. Galle Face, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the Galle Face is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture. The hotel offers amazing view of the ocean and of course, the dramatic sunsets. It’s famed for its amazing hospitality. The doorman of this hotel, K.C Kuttan, had become the icon of Sri Lanka’s amazing hospitality. He worked here since the British Raj and till his death and was famous for his friendly behaviour.

3. Amansara, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Originally built by a French architect, this place served as the royal guest villa. This guesthouse was then handed over to the Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia in 1965. After that, it was converted into a four-suite hotel. The resort has maintained its 19th and 20th century French Colonial aura and offers amazing hospitality to its guests.

4. Sofitel Legend Metropole, Hanoi, Vietnam

This French Colonial building has a rich history. From celebrities to legendary political figures, everyone has walked through its doors and has enjoyed the warmth of its hospitality. The staffs are extremely friendly and are known for treasuring the guests like royalties. Even the restaurants of this hotel serve Italian, French, and Vietnamese cuisine that’s incomparable. Personalities such as Charlie Chaplin and Jane Fonda have been their guests.

5. Carcosa Seri Negara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Also known as the “the house on the hill,” this place has welcomed many famous personalities throughout the beginning of the 20th century. It was first constructed by first Resident-General of the Federated Malay States. It has also housed all important British Representatives to Malaysia until the Japanese invasion in 1941. The hotel is best known for pampering their guests. In true Colonial style, the hotel also offers afternoon tea in the afternoon. It served as the official residence for Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II during their visit to the country in 1989.

5 Honeymoon Destinations for Nature Lovers

Planning for a dreamy honeymoon but don’t know where to go? If relaxing and recharging your souls amidst nature is what you crave for, then we have some awesome suggestions for you. Check out these places that will give you a chance to get up and close to nature:

1. Darjeeling

Nothing is as romantic as watching the sunrise from the Tiger Hill, flooding the landscape with its golden glow. The stunning views of the Himalayas and the magnificent Kanchenjunga peaks are sights to behold.

Explore the emerald green tea plantations or go on an adventurous trek to the Singalila Ridge. Darjeeling will leave both of you gasping for breath with its mesmerising beauty.  To make it a memorable affair, book your stay at the Windamere Hotel.

Soaked in Colonial charm, Windamere Hotel is a place that will take you straight back to the Raj era. It is the only authentic Colonial Hotel in Darjeeling. Also, the hotel staff at the hotel leave no stone unturned when it comes to pampering couples. If you are visiting Darjeeling and looking for the best honeymoon hotels in Darjeeling, stay at Windamere Hotel.

2. Ranthambore

Love wildlife? If yes, then an adventurous jungle stay amidst fascinating wildlife and exotic flora at Ranthambore awaits you. Moments spent together at the jungle camp and tracing the mighty beasts during enthralling wildlife safaris will surely make your honeymoon a memorable affair.

3. Coorg

Amp up the romance factor in your relationship amidst the luscious beauty of the enchanting Coorg. Gifted with hectares of green plantation, misty hills carpeted with green, and salubrious weather will definitely rejuvenate your souls.

4. Gulmarg

Paint your relationship with strokes of love at Gulmarg, a place painted by nature with its most wonderful hues. Located in Baramulla district in Jammu and Kashmir, it’s difficult to ignore the alluring charm of the snow-clad hills of Gulmarg. It’s also a popular place for winter sports and activities.

5. Kumarakom

If you are tired of all the hullaballoo of the wedding celebrations and seek some time alone with your beloved, away from the maddening rush, Kumarakom is the place to be.  It’s the best place to relax in solitude. Sail through the mystic backwaters of Kumarakom on a houseboat and enjoy the rustic beauty of God’s own country- Kumarakom will surely leave you craving for more.

4 Colonial Hotels That are Ideal to Stay in During the Christmas Week

Shiny crystal chandeliers, oak wood furniture, marble floors and classy white colonnades- the old world charm of the Colonial hotels are impossible to resist. And if you are planning a holiday getaway with your family during the Christmas week, then visit these Colonial hotels:

1. Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

Nowhere you will find this timeless allure of the Colonial era ever-present than the Windamere Hotel. Overlooking the majestic Himalayas, this hotel is a classic example of history well-preserved.

Once a boarding house for the British tea planters, this place retains its original flavour in every corner you visit. The Christmas week celebrations at the Windamere Hotel (the only British Colonial hotel in Darjeeling), is something you cannot afford to miss.

This year, performing artists Carolyn Allen and Paul Smith, starring in their show ‘The Totties – unleashed!, will be leaving the audience rolling on the floor with their witty and frivolous performances. If you want to book a hotel in Darjeeling during the Christmas season, book your stay at the Windamere Hotel.

2. Eastern  and Oriental Hotel, Malaysia

This hotel was built when Penang was the first British port in Malaysia. This hotel is operational since 1885 and was the first property of the Sarkies brother. This hotel went through major renovation between 1996 and 2001 and comprises of 100 well-fashioned suites in its heritage wing and another 122 modern luxurious suites and rooms in their Victory Annex. This place has been visited by the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Rudyard Kipling.

3. Manila Hotel, The Philippines

This Colonial hotel was built by the Americans when they acquired The Philippines from Spain. Standing just opposite to the Rizal Park, this hotel features 570 luxury rooms with hints of local decor. From John F. Kennedy to Michael Jackson, this hotel has hosted many eminent personalities from all over the globe.

4. Schoone Oordt Country House, South Africa

Compared to Colonial properties in Asia, the Colonial hotels in South Africa have a style of their own. Most of these Colonial properties were private residences that were later turned into hotels. Schoone Oordt Country House dates back to 1853. This building with an intricate Georgian facade and a Victorian verandah that’s laced with filigree, this boutique hotel is famous for its unique charm. This Christmas, take your family on a journey through the Colonial era in South Africa by staying in this beautifully restored boutique hotel.