Avila Hotel offers the best of both worlds in Curaçao’s historical capital city. It’s located right on the beach along Curaçao’s southern coast, with spectacular views of the azure Caribbean Sea and two private coves for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. But just minutes away by foot or car is the excitement of downtown Willemstad, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The 18th-century Dutch colonial mansion that’s evolved into an über-chic hotel boasts a unique history that covers more than 200 years and at times has served as the residence of British and Dutch Governors, a boy’s boarding school, a private hospital, and a home for the sisters of Simon Bolivar during their years of exile from the Venezuelan independence war against Spain.

It was first opened as a hotel in 1949 by Dr. Gungu Maal who instilled the qualities of  personal attention, order and respectability that carry on to the friendly, intimate and understated hospitality still found today. Since 1977 the hotel has been owned and operated by the Møller family, and is the oldest hotel in continuous operation in Curaçao.

The Avila Hotel has a wonderful way of blending both a timeless island ambience with a thoroughly modern and hip vibe. Over the past 15+ years, the complex has been thoroughly renovated and extended into a well-appointed modern hotel with an excellent international acclaim, and is a favorite retreat for celebrities and jet-setters (it’s a favorite of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands).

Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, two private beaches, and tennis court. The Avila Wellness Club is equipped with the latest in TechnoGym equipment, a Kinesis® Wall, steam room and sauna and the Santai Spa offers a comprehensive list of massage therapies and body and beauty treatments, including outdoor sea-side massages.

There’s also and exquisite selection of dining venues, including the world famous Blues restaurant and lounge–THE jazz spot in Curaçao, where the hottest local and international jazz artists come to perform.

The hotel provides a complimentary shuttle to downtown Willemstad to explore its many museums, shops and restaurants. The Blue Bay Golf Club and the Seaquarium are about a 10 minute drive from the hotel.

Stepping into the Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce is like being transported to another place and time. This extraordinary waterfront hotel has earned numerous accolades as one of Europe’s most romantic hotels, and offers a truly picture perfect setting overlooking the canals of Bruges.

Built in the 16th century, the luxury boutique hotel with its half timbered façade and stained glass windows, is beautifully decorated with precious antiques, exclusive artwork, luxurious fabrics and fabulous flower arrangements. It features 16 unique and well equipped guestrooms, each decorated in a different style and lavishly furnished with fine antiques, Persian carpets, designer fabrics and marble bathrooms.

The hotel offers a delicious breakfast each morning in its Les Matins du Relais dining room with beautiful views of the canals and the city center.  Its Salon de Thé offers a Belgian Coffee Bar and a light menu in a casual atmosphere. Within walking distance is the hotel’s lovely restaurant, Maria van Bourgondie, which offers classic French-Flemish cuisine in an authentic setting.

The hotel is located in the most picturesque area and the historic city center of Bruges, a prominent UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bruges is 110km from Brussels and 90km from Antwerp.

The Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce’s extraordinary waterfront setting, warm hospitality, sumptuous comfort and personal service guarantee an unforgettable stay in Bruges.

For more information on Bruges and Luxe Hotels Top 10 list of attractions in the city, click here.

The Hotel Roger de Lluria is located in the heart of Barcelona’s downtown, perfectly situated for exploring Spain’s most visually stunning and cosmopolitan city.

The hotel is in a Neoclassical building with rich historical roots and superb charm. The beautifully maintained boutique property tastefully combines elegant traditional style and modern comforts, and its reputation for excellent service ensures that every guest enjoys a pleasurable and warm stay.

Hotel Roger de Lluria has thirty-eight classic rooms, eight deluxe rooms and two junior suites, all equipped with the latest technology. Most of the rooms have a terrace or balcony, perfect for breakfast in the mornings or a cocktail after a day of sightseeing or business meetings.

The hotel’s Mirall Restaurant offers exquisite Catalan and International haute cuisine specialties. There is also a Snack Bar, Business Center and Meeting Rooms.

Hotel Roger de Lluria is surrounded by the city’s top shopping and cultural districts. Passeig de Gracia, Ramblas and Catalunya Square are just 5 minutes away. The Gothic Quarter and Cathedral, and the Born district, which has plenty of designer stores and trendy restaurants are only 15 minutes away and the Old Harbour is approximately 10 minutes by taxi.

For Luxe Hotels list of Top 10 must see attractions in Barcelona, click here.