Luxe Worldwide Hotels Blog

Istanbul has a mysterious allure. It’s one of those rare cities that has the ability to engage all of your senses all at once. For one thing, it is a blend of Middle East splendors in architecture and culture, with 21^st Century modernism and European lifestyle. There is the Grand Bazaar, a sight to behold that is an absolute classic.  It is the biggest souk (market) in the world. There is also the Sultanahmet (Old City), where you can find yourself immersed in sights, smells and sounds unique only to Istanbul and — yes, of course, take part in a shopping spree for one-of-a-kind finds.

But really, the only place to stay while in Istanbul is the 5-star Elite World Istanbul Hotel, located in the heart of it all—the famous Taksim Talimhane district. Whether you’re in Istanbul for business or pleasure—it’s a must. If you find yourself in Istanbul because its rich history has piqued your curiosity, do explore the Bosphorus Bridge, the Hagia Sofia, and Blue Mosque or just allow yourself to get lost in the bustling, colorful street scenes. If you are in the city for business, know that major international companies, including Samsung, HSBC, and Electrolux, are just three kilometers away from the hotel.

And when you’re ready to relax and recharge for another exciting day in Istanbul, the 245-room Elite World Hotel pampers mind, body and soul. It features all the amenities of a large luxury hotel with its Wi-Fi, FitLife Health Club and Spa, vitamin bar, indoor pool, jacuzzi and interactive TV, yet has the ambiance of intimacy and serenity.

Try the hamam (Turkish baths) with bottom-heated massage platforms and high pressure water treatments after your conference call in the state-of-the-art business center, then head to the on-site hair salon to get spruced up for a delightful dinner of Turkish and Ottoman cuisines at the Elite Restaurant.

While it’s tempting (and possible) to meet all your needs without ever leaving the hotel, it will be waiting for you when you get back from a long day at the souk with a full heart and full hands.

Istanbul beckons…

The Spanish city of Seville is steeped in history and culture. But don’t let the age of this 2,000 year old, distinctly Andalucian city fool you. It’s full to the brim with the youthful vigor of flamenco, bullfighting, fashion, art, and the intoxicating smell of orange blossoms. No wonder the city has played home to the likes of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro. As the artistic, historic, cultural, and financial capital of southern Spain, Seville provides every type of traveler equal opportunities for mischief, adventure, and relaxation.

Situated in the epicenter of this magical city is Casa Romana, a boutique hotel gem that is footsteps away from the Seville Business District, Giralda Tower, Plaza del Duque, Seville Cathedral, La Maestranza Bullfighting Ring, the renowned fashion boutiques of Sierpes Street, and the Triana Quarter.

If you’ve visited the lively tapas bars and clubs or taken a leisurely walk through its winding streets and admired the magnificent art and architecture, Casa Romana is the perfect location for your Seville adventures. Whether your trip brings you here for business or bullfights, you have the comfort of knowing that you can come back to a relaxing massage, jacuzzi, poolside bar, solarium, on-site art gallery, and 24-hour room service.

Casa Romana embodies the perfect combination of two enchanting cultures: Romanesque and Romanticism. Enjoy a glass of wine in the elegant outdoor patio or savor a cup of coffee in the warm ambience reminiscent of traditional Roman Palaces—which ever you choose, you’ll notice there is something distinctly comforting and invigorating about this charming hotel.

If you’re looking for a true Spanish escape, Casa Romana’s Suite Alcazar Villa is it.  This exclusive, 1,829 square foot, luxury suite located between the Alcazar and Cathedral Monuments, includes a private bedroom, dressing room, kitchen, living room, dining area, and bathroom with a hydro-massage shower and bathtub. If you’re not dreaming of sweet Seville yet, this one-of-a-kind suite also includes a panoramic living room and solarium in front of the Cathedral, breakfast, and on-call butler-concierge service.

When the time comes for you to leave Romana Casa, there is no doubt you’ll be taking remnants of your stay here back with you to your own “casa.” Just reflect on the official motto of this captivating city—“NO8DO”—“Seville has not abandoned me.”

Just the mention of Paris, conjures up beauty, art, fashion and an envied cafe lifestyle.

In particular there are some internationally famous streets like the Champs Elysee, Place De La Concorde and, of course, Saint Germain de Pres, recognized as the famous literary and artistic “hangout” where Albert Camus wrote ‘The Outsider,’ among his many literary masterpieces.  On this very Boulevard, set in the heart of Paris’ literary area, just opposite the Church of Saint Germain de Pres, you can find the Madison Hotel, an elegant building, built in 1925, with 50 charming guest rooms.

Not only does this boutique-style hotel offer excellent comforts, a signature standard of Luxe Worldwide Hotel properties, the hotel is in a bustling neighborhood surrounded by cafes and shops and offers the visitor a sense of “local” Paris.

And then, just across the street is the Café de Flore, a favorite spot where locals gather and tourists mingle.  A metro stop directly across from the hotel entrance, offers easy transportation to take in the Parisian sights—maybe a visit to the Orsay or the Louvre Museum, a moment to admire the architectural wonder of the Paris Opera (or take in a performance), a walk on the Champ Elysee toward the Arch of Triumph and, of course, time to browse through the rare books stalls facing the Seine.

Back at the hotel, you can relax in comfortable rooms, with a meld of antique and contemporary furniture, coupled by carpets and draperies, inspired by Provence.  Even though a throwback to another century, there are the modern amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi access, private safe and large bathroom, and an elaborate breakfast, to name a few.

It’s a place to visit — and revisit  — when next in Paris.  Try it…