Summer is for the adventurous, the lovers of all things and places dreamy and spectacular. Close your eyes, stick out a finger and see where it lands on this list; any of these places are a sure cure for the wanderlust running through your veins and mind.
By CHRISTINE S. DAYRIT
1. Argos: Most fascinating cave hotel
In this haven of history, faith and culture, there is one dream destination that stands out like a precious gem: Argos Wine Cave Hotel in Cappadocia, Turkey. The hotel has a passion for the past, restoring and conserving it so that it will continue its essence to the world. Nestled high above the city, just below the dramatic Chaser formation known as the highest point, this is an architectural marvel where 20 village homes were purchased that were in derelict or decaying conditions. The cave hotel has an underground tunnel believed to be the hiding place of some of the Apostles of Jesus Christ.
(Argos)
2. Four Seasons Sultanahmet: The best prison-to-palace experience
Have you ever imagined waking up in an ultra-luxurious hotel and strolling in its lavish gardens profuse with giant, red roses against the romantic yellow walls only to find out that this same edifice used to be a prison 100 years ago? For the initiated who has experienced an eclectic indulgence called Four Seasons Hotel in Sultanahmet, Istanbul, the hotel is both romantic and humbling to discover that the structure used to be a prison facility where famous artists, political figures and renowned writers were among its celebrated detainees.
(At the Four Seasons Sultanahmet)
3. Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac: Most photographed hotel in the world
Sometimes, we find a destination where our real world and dream world share a moment. It happens at Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec, Canada. Royal castles that celebrate tales of chivalry and royalty have enamored many of us. Romantic tales of yesteryears resonated in my heart as we chanced upon our dreamy destination: the legendary Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. It has been said that the Chateau Frontenac is to Quebec City what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. As I explored this magnificent property whose location dates back to four centuries, I realized that modern day fairytales do come true.
(Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac)
4. Soneva Kiri: Most luxurious eco-resort
Soneva Kiri is part of the Six Senses group, a resort brand that distinguishes itself by offering a kind of luxury it has named intelligent luxury, best explained by a philosophy it calls S.L.O.W. L.I.F.E. which stands for “sustainable, local, organic, wellness, learning, inspiring, fun, experiences.†My friends and I have experienced staying at its very impressive villa: a six-bedroom (including the butler’s room) timber villa, which feels like a huge tree house at approximately 1,800 sq. m. in size. There are indoor/outdoor shoes for each bedroom. The resort’s motto is “No news, no shoes.†Guests turn up to dinner at the resort’s top-notch restaurants barefoot, a practice encouraged by the staff. There’s free Wi-Fi if you really can’t unplug and a few computers in the resort library, which also has a huge number of interesting books and a large DVD collection.
(Soneva Kiri)
5. Crystal Symphony: Most luxurious cruise
Though Crystal Symphony is known as the second most luxurious liner in the world, next only to Crystal Serenity, I still consider it my most luxurious cruising experience. Tradition meets modernity here and the 50,000-ton, 922-guest Crystal Symphony is one of the most spacious cruise liners. Aboard, there are no hassles of checking in; the immigration personnel hop on the vessel when you sail to another shore to secure your pertinent documents. There is no reason to pack and unpack your luggage several times — once is enough. This cruise had me pleading to God to not end this cruise. It gave me the peace and comfort I feel when I am at home.
(A room with a view on board Crystal Symphony)
6. Sonya’s Garden: Healing-most place on earth
I have been to places abroad with vortex energy. But it is only in Sonya’s Garden, most especially its bed and breakfast, that I always feel 100-percent relaxed and rejuvenated. This paradise in Alfonso, Cavite is a healing sanctuary for me, my family and close friends. The English gardens here are enticing and enchanting. It is abloom all year round and the flowers surround the 14 charming cottages. Every time I visit Sonya’s Garden, I go home with many ideas for how to be better as a human being. It always touches my soul.
(Sonya’s Garden)
7. Taj Mahal: The perfect symmetry
The Taj Mahal in Agra, India is known to many as “Poetry in Marble.†This ultimate symbol of immortal love, art and architecture is a definite must visit when you step into the colorful world of India. This rare gem of unrivaled art, architecture and passionate madness is a timeless legacy for future generations to learn from and appreciate. To get a an amazing view of the Taj Mahal, try to stay at the Oberoi Amarvilas as it definitely complements the wonder of the palace and it is also the most revered address when visiting Agra.
(The Taj Mahal)
8. Tromso: The most amazing place to view theAurora borealis
In Tromso, Norway, streaks of green light brighten up the sky like a phantom of the nocturnal journey. In anticipation of perhaps one of the world’s greatest natural phenomena, I thank the universe for allowing me to see the Aurora borealis, a divine occurrence. I am convinced that I was truly born for moments like this natural phenomenon, which brings unforgettable travel epiphanies that are simply life changing, as they are mind-boggling.
(Tromso)
9. Huma Island: Spa-mpering at its best
The best way to enjoy Huma is to indulge in the many treatments at its spa. You lie face down on the massage bed at the spa of the beautiful Huma resort in Busuanga, Palawan and you enjoy the kneading of the dexterous hands of the masseuse. Just when you are being lulled to dreamland, a manta ray or a school of fish snatches your attention away. Yes, as you lie face down on your bed, your view is the waters below the spa whose flooring is made of fiber glass so clear you can even see the tiniest creature below you. At night, the waters are lit and more denizens of the deep surface to entertain you as your masseuse continue to massage you. What an experience!
(Huma Island Resort & Spa)
10. Victoria Falls: The most magical waterfalls
Victoria is one of the most spectacular attractions of Africa and one of the most unusual waterfalls in the world. It is created by the Zambezi River that suddenly plummets into a narrow, 100-meter deep chasm. At the same time, Victoria is the only waterfall in the world that is over one-kilometer wide and over 100 meters deep.
(Victoria Falls)
