While we stick out the last weeks of winter, many of us are planning ahead for the warmer months, especially those of us on the U.S. East Coast who’ve been hit with very cold and wet weather as of late. We are dreaming of beach vacations, sunset strolls through historic locations, museum walks, and cool drinks in a caf茅 overlooking the Eiffel Tower. This week, we’ve put together our top destinations for travelers who prioritize art and culture as well as luxury accommodations.
Spetses, GreeceBAHS Founder Anita Rogers describes the island of Spetses as “a聽magical island kept for聽the聽locals and Athenians and private foreigners who have moved to聽Greece. It is a combination聽of聽traditional聽Greece聽and modern luxury and it is kept from too much tourism.” It is truly a special destination full of history and soul. While there, we love the聽. The luxury hotel opened in 1914 and offers elegant rooms with sea views, modern amenities, and easy access to everything Spetses has to offer.聽聽to enjoy a spacious room accompanied by a lovely garden and private pool. Make sure you stop by聽聽to learn about the history of the island. To read聽all of Anita’s recommendations for a trip to Greece,听.
Milan, ItalyGalleria Vik Milano is a luxury boutique hotel that boasts a huge modern and contemporary art collection. Each room is unique and features original art and murals. The hotel also offers two restaurants, 24-hour room service, a spa, and convenient access to everything in the city. Stop by聽Santa Maria delle Grazie to see聽The Last Supper听(), view masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Bellini at聽, or simply stroll around and take in the gorgeous architecture of the city. For those interested in high-end design, we suggest visiting during聽; anchored by聽, which features the best of Italian and international design and lighting, the week highlights a variety of different events for those with a keen eye.
Paris, FranceParis is one of the first destinations that comes to mind for an art and history filled retreat. Book a room at the palatial聽聽to enjoy excellent service, luxury amenities, a great location, and unparalleled views. Many of the stunning patios offer views of the Eiffel Tower, perfect for a sunset cocktail or early morning coffee and croissant. Take in the floor-to-ceiling art frescos at聽聽or enjoy the stained glass ceiling at聽, the hotel’s casual all-day caf茅 offering dining, tea, and relaxed socializing.聽Situated on the left bank, this gorgeous hotel is easy walking to distance to聽,听听(an absolute must for gourmet food lovers),听, and all destinations along the Seine. Finally, if you haven’t been, we highly recommend a stop at聽, a gorgeous restaurant with ornate paintings on the ceiling.
Abu Dhabi,听United Arab EmiratesBook a room at the聽聽to experience their聽2000-piece art collection featuring Emirati and international artists that celebrate the UAE’s rich heritage. While all the rooms are spacious and well-appointed, we love the聽; the suite offers聽crystal chandeliers, hand-painted silks, a marble fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows with both city and sea views. If you can step away from the hotel’s impressive art collection, visit the聽,听the largest art museum in the Arabian Peninsula. If you visit in November, be sure to purchase tickets for the Abu Dhabi Art Fair.
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