Situated in Copenhagen in the vaulted cellar of a XIIth century building, the medieval atmosphere of the Kong Hans Kaelder has immediate appeal.

The cellar was once owned by King Hans (1455-1513), and lies in the oldest building in Copenhagen as well as is the site of the best restaurant.

The minimalist décor is illuminated by a cuisine that some people describe as “bearing the stamp of Matisse or Picasso”.

Since he took over this restaurant, chef Thomas Andersen has striven to conjure up inventive cuisine, ranking amongst the best in Scandinavia, that is indeed based on French gourmet traditions but also draws inspiration from dishes and products from further afield.

Taste delicious regional and Scandinavian products paired with exclusive products from the best suppliers in France, Spain and Italy.

Hans Christian Andersen once lived upstairs, writing Love in the Nicola Tower.

Rothenberg Germany

Germany is a land of extremes. In this ancient land, you’ll find geographic wonders ranging from the sand dunes of the North Friesian Islands to the towering Alps to idyllic pastoral land dotted with enchanting villages. You can visit castles, sample some of the world’s best beer and wine, explore historic sites and so much more.

Of course, you’ll want to visit Bavaria, home to Munich with its many unique towns and villages, of which Neuschwanstein is perhaps the most famous. The castle, by the same name, was the inspiration for Disney’s signature Sleeping Beauty castle.

There are plenty more interesting destinations, so consider planning a trip other regions, as well. You might want to journey to Germany’s most northerly province, Schleswig Holstein, and visit Hamburg and the surrounding area. Another idea would be to explore the Black Forest, which boasts picturesque scenery, relaxing spas and even casinos.

If you cannot make up your mind as to where to travel, let prolific travel writer Karen Brown do the work for you. On her popular website, Karen Brown’s World of Travel, she has created several different itineraries for travelers to Germany. Her suggestions include places of interest, maps, regional tips and excellent places to stay. The following hotels and inns were chosen by her readers as the top lodging choices in Germany.

Built in 1730, the Hotel Bulow Residenz in Dresden is a charming Baroque relic painted a sunny shade of yellow. Hotel Bulow is across the river from the city center, so it offers close access to Dresden’s many attractions, but is located in a quiet, peaceful setting. Elegant guest rooms range from cozier single rooms to more spacious suites decorated with antiques. Breakfasts are often served in a vine-covered courtyard. The hotel has a formal restaurant as well as an intimate piano bar in the wine cellar. The hotel was chosen by Karen Brown readers as Germany’s “Most Romantic” lodging.

A trip to Rothenberg is a bit like waking up in the middle of a fairy tale — you almost expect to see Hansel or Gretel skipping down the streets of this medieval village. A stay at the Romantik Hotel Markusturm is all part of the enjoyment of a visit to this magical town. The guest rooms, decorated by host Lilo Berger, are welcoming, comfortable and eclectic. Lilo’s husband, Stephan, creates the wonderful dinners; his wine soup and homemade beer are among the highlights. Karen Brown readers have chosen this delightful hotel as the winner of the “Warmest Welcome” award for Germany.

The Gasthaus Die Krone in the Black Forest town of Staufen is a delight. This family-run hotel is located in a pedestrian-only area, so it enjoys a quiet and peaceful spot. The exterior of the building is charming with shuttered windows, window boxes bursting with color and a mural depicting the Revolution of 1848. Guest rooms are simple and pleasing with light pine furnishings and beds topped with white duvets and fluffy pillows. The hosts are friendly and welcoming and in addition to the guest rooms, there is a restaurant where dinner is served nightly. The hotel won the Karen Brown Readers’ Choice Award for “Greatest Value” in Germany.

The Romantik Hotel Benen-Diken-Hof is an excellent spot for every type of traveler. Its location is unusual, located on a sand-dune island in Germany’s northernmost spot; the hotel is surrounded by acres of prairie land. There is a wellness center where guests can enjoy a relaxing spa treatment, as well as a sauna and swimming pool. The inn’s restaurant serves breakfast far longer than traditional breakfast hours, so you need not rise early and rush to get in the morning meal. Children will adore the hotel as there is plenty of room to run and play, and the hotel has a children’s program, baby sitting services and a room filled with toys. Hiking, fishing and golf are among the many local activities available. Karen Brown readers have chosen Hotel Benen-Diken-Hof as Germany’s best “Splendid Splurge.

Author:Tess Kirkpatrick loves writing about boutique hotels in Germany and other travel destinations.

If you are looking for a great vacation, Turkey should be high on your list of countries to visit. The sun is always shining and the beaches are great. In the evening you can eat wonderful Turkey food and then dive into the wild nightlife.

If you just want to relax, you can spend the whole day on the beach. If you want some action, try one of the many available water sports: jet skiing, para-sailing, banana boat or simply play a fun game of beach volleyball.

Looking for something more adventurous,? Then trek into the mountains or try mountain or ravine climbing. If water is more your element, Turkey also has a lot of places for diving, sea kayaking and rafting.

The most popular Turkish destination without a doubt is Alanya. About 10 % of all tourists in Turkey are on vacation in Alanya. The reason is the combination of two wonderful beaches and the many interesting sights.

The best site many be castle hill, which divides two beaches. From the top of the hill, about 820 feet (250 meters) above the sea, there is a great view of Alanya and the surrounding country.

The Water Planet Aquapark is one of Turkey’s largest water parks and is an excellent place for children. Here they can try everything from water slides and rafting to bungee jumping and crazy golf.

Antalya is a little different than the other Turkey destinations. The city is not the typical fishing village that grew into a tourist village. The city has about 500,000 residents, so here you see more locals than tourists.

As a large city, Alanya has many shopping centers, bazaars and shopping streets. In addition, there are also many interesting sights from the Roman Empire in the city. Many are located in the old part of the city called Kaleici.

The number one golf destination in Turkey is without doubt – Belek. Eight golf courses can be found in the area. Due to its popularity, you must book several months ahead if you are going in the high season.

Belek is more than just for playing golf. Belek is also a paradise for bird lovers. The city does of course also have fine shopping and several water parks.

Kemer is a nice, little village that is surrounded by the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean. The city has a unique mix of the original Turkey and a modern tourist destination. Here are lively pedestrian streets, an elegant marina and beautiful beach promenades.

Close to the city is the ruins of Phaselis, where Alexander the Great spent his winters. In the middle of Kemer is the Moonlight Park. It’s a large park area with playground and dolphinarium. You can also find many restaurants, bars and discos.

Kusadasi offers an international feeling because of the many arriving cruise ships. Most passengers come to see the famous sight Efesos (also called Efesus) near Kusadasi. If you enjoy smart cafes and international clothing brands, Kusadasi is the city for you.

If you are looking for a romantic vacation destination, the city of Side might be the answer. In the old town you can view many Roman buildings. Stroll among the well-preserved wood and stone houses in quiet streets. Finish the day in the city theater, where concerts and theater have replaced long ago gladiator fights.

Author: Morten Elm

The country of Greece is certainly one of the most amazing places in the world to visit. Greece is full of excitement, adventure and infinite things to do and see.

Typically known as a country rich in ancient history, Greece will certainly give you the experiences of a life time. Everything about this wonderful place is thrilling, whether it’s the monuments, climate, hotels or amazing food.

Greece offers plenty of quality hotels making your vacation trouble-free and entertaining. Greece offers a fabulous time at its famed beaches, where you can rest and enjoy the warm weather.

For those who enjoy the sun, the Mediterranean climate is ideal for you. The Alpine climate and the Pindus mountain range are a welcome to tourists.

There are many ancient and historical places in this great country to take in. It’s full of great buildings and some brilliant architecture telling the tale of its rich history. You will also be able to see many marble temples here.

In addition to the historical places that Greece is known for, there is so much more to discover. Beaches and some awesome luxury hotels are to name a few. There is an entire world of things to see here.

Greece is not only one of the best places to visit in Europe but it is one of the finest vacation destinations in the whole world. Greece is also popular as a romantic place where couple love to stay, offering rocky shores, attractive seaside, waterfalls, caves, and rivers.

On the top of your destination list, are famous names such as Rhodes, Athens, Santorini, and Mikonos which are the hallmarks of Greece. The Acropolis of Athens, Medieval city of Rhodes, and the Monasteries of Dephni are some of the top examples of Greece’s architectural brilliance.

In addition, other places to visit include: Monastery complex of Aghio Oros, monastery of Aghios Ioannis Theologos, the Cave of the Apocalypse, Pythagoreio and Heraion, Monastery complex of Meteora, the Temple of Epicurean Apollo, and Mystras.

The list of things to see is infinite. Take your time and explore all of Greece. Have a great trip!

Upon reaching the Gran Hotel Bahia Del Duque Resort, you will quickly notice it is like walking into a set from the movies. Buildings that bear a resemblance to castles in colors of lemon, terracotta and pink.

This beautiful hotel is on the island of Tenerife, Canary Islands. A total of 16 acres of tropical gardens that look out over the El Duque beach.

All of the rooms at the Gran Hotel Bahia Del Duque Resort-Adeje have a balcony or patio with a view of either the ocean or the gardens. 40 other villas were designed this year, all with a private garden and pool. Each villa is different from each other. This makes the place seem more like a authentic town that sets gently on the ocean front.

One of the toughest decisions you will make here will probably be where you are going to have your next meal. There are 8 restaurants and 9 bars in the resort itself, including an ice cream parlour.

One might wonder why you would even need to leave this paradise hotel. French and Italian cuisine are plentiful. One of the classy restaurants is the Las Aguas which is run by Michelin star chef, Salvador Gallego.

Even the youngest member of your family will be impressed with their own menus that have a wide variety of food for them to choose from. You also have the option of dining outdoors to view the magnificent ocean or relaxing inside with your breakfast.

The 5 swimming pools at the Gran Hotel Bahia Del Duque Resort-Adeje come together here to make cascades. They are all formed from one level to the next building ponds and rivers. Along with these beautiful swimming pools is a children’s pool.

If you are looking to fish for big game fish, you’ve come to the right spot. Here you can book a game fish excursion for the day.

There are also tennis courts, a gym, billiards, table tennis, darts and more. Golf is another feature offered here with 5 golf courses to choose from with year round warm weather.

For the children you have the playground, a children’s club for 3 to 12 year olds with activities, an afternoon show and a mini disco in the evening. There are children’s menus for them for lunch. The teenager’s club comes with a play station, Wi-Fi and internet.

The excellence of this hotel, its cuisine, and the spectacular views that await you is the perfect place for a luxury holiday in Tenerife and will be etched in your memory for a lifetime.

Grand Hotel in Villa Feltrinelli

The Grand Hotel in Villa Feltrinelli is an incredibly luxurious hotel that’s located on the shore of Lake Garda.

Grand Hotel in Villa Feltrinelli is a magnificent building built in a Victorian style, and this luxury hotel is surrounded by an old park which covers three acres.

The “Cura” and the attention to the needs of its guests, the good kitchen, the beautifulness of the lake with the surrounding mountains make the hotel unique in its area.

Next to Paris, Marseilles is the second largest city in France based on population. Marseilles has the largest port on the Mediterranean as well as being the financial center of the Provence-Alpes-Cote.

Even though Marseilles doesn’t have the immediate allure that fabulous Paris has, most visitors will fall in love with this great city.  You can spend hours just walking the many African markets, go to the cliffs falling into the blue sea, or visit Panier and the Corniche.

Marseilles has numerous sights for tourists who take the time and make an effort to really discover this French city.|

One stop to visit is the Vieux Port, or the old harbor. You can view fishermen selling the daily fish catch in an auction. In addition, if you land on the port in the evening, there’s a sight you will never forget – Notre Dame de la Garde.

The Notre Dame de la Garde is a large church that looks over Marseilles. In ancient times, the fishermen used to get their boats blessed here. As you tour the place today, you will discover a few boats remaining in the area.

The Cours Julien is a great place where you can rest and visit various book stores, a local playground, or even get a cup of French coffee.

The Boulevard Longchamp and Palais Longchamp are a castle and a walkway. The palace itself i not very large, but is definitely worth a visit.

Panier is an area near Borely park and is the oldest part of town. There you will find many old buildings, museums, monuments, and various exhibitions that are present throughout the year.

One place you should visit outside of Marseilles, is the Chateau d’If, a small island and was actually once a prison. It’s quite famous due to its association with the novel “The Count of Monte Cristo”. The Calanques are fjords which are spectacular, and have great views.

Marseilles is a beautiful place to visit, and absolutely has enough to keep its visitors busy with even if it is not as renowned or marketed as Paris.

The dark, enchanting blue of the Mediterranean, white grains of sand from the beaches of the coast, and the serenity that murmurs quietly in distant city sounds.

These, mixed with the fresh air, tinged slightly with salt from the sea, and a gentle breeze that appears near ceaseless, are what make a Cote d’Azur villas nothing short of but, entirely and completely, a paradise.

Cote d’Azur, a hybrid name inspired by the French word for gold and the azure blue of the Mediterranean Sea, is deservedly and well named.

The beautiful coast of the South of France has been a tourist hot spot for centuries, and many of the first visitors to this luxurious landscape were royalty and aristocracy from around the world.

The cities that line the coast, Nice, Cannes, and St. Tropez, are famous for not only their beautiful views, but also the wonderful culture and architecture that these cities have been built upon and around.

It is no wonder then, that such a place has drawn so many famous writers and artists from around the world as well, hoping to catch a spark of inspiration from its calming beauty. In the past, greats such as Pablo Picasso and Edith Wharton visited, lived in and worked on the Cote d’Azur.

Today, celebrities like Elton John and Bridget Bardot have even made their homes on the French Riviera.

Cote d’Azur is a dreamlike haven for foreigners and locals alike, as the weather that permits outdoor activities and relaxation stays relatively moderate year round.

In Cannes, it has been boasted that the city regularly receives sunlight for twelve hours a day, almost every day. Rich in history, culture, beauty and still so full of a sweet piece of calm, Cote d’Azur calls out to the heart of the weary and wishful, offering rest and peace.

Many visitors to the city often rent or stay in hotel rooms or suites, if only to rest for a bit when running low on energy from enjoying all that Cote d’Azur has to offer. But, for an optimal experience on the French Riviera, it may be better to stay at a villa.

While it may be an interesting enough experience to run into and listen to other foreigners and visitors to the coast, for a more private and focused stay a hotel does not offer the same feeling as a villa might. Crossing paths with strangers on the street, is very different from brushing shoulders in a crowded lobby or narrow hallway.

To stay in a villa is similar to staying in a vacation home, providing one with a more authentic and at-home feeling. Enjoying a drink on a private deck or patio as the sun sets is a surprising amount more serene than staring at the sky through a hotel room window.

Full of beautiful land, buildings, people and history, Cote d’Azur is paradise in waiting.

The sun continues to shine over this French vacation spot, and all that is left is for more people to see and take in for themselves, the blue gold that is Cote d’Azur.

LAS8 Paris

Based in Paris, France – LAS8 Paris is a trendy fashion house that  features only rare and luxurious leathers.

The stunning leather collection featured at LAS8 Paris Fashion House is grounded in French fashion know-how.

LAS8 Paris was founded by Philippe Anton and Fabien Paludetto and their leather collection truly represents both a prestigious and high quality fashion for exotic leathers and fur lovers.

LAS8 Paris Fashion House is backed by specialist workshops that work tirelessly to locate and select the best skins.

The goal of LAS8 Paris is to provide each customer with his/her own jacket, and each unique piece is tailored to their taste and personal wishes.

LAS8 Paris

During an interview with Founder and Partner Fabien Paludetto, we had the chance to ask him several questions about LAS8 Paris.

– What is the inspiration for your fashion designs?
Our main source of inspiration is the “material” that we use. Furs and exotic skins are a true passion for my partner and I. We are fascinated by the animal world. We love working with interplay of 2 or 3 different leathers and colors on each model, and we manage to create assortments are innovating on the market, for example with our stingray collar.

The use and the work of skin is a valuable learning constantly. That’s what we love. Able to work the skins and furs is a treasure for us. Currently fewer craftsmen have the knowledge to work on these skins. France is recognized for years as an expert in this market. What makes each model unique and valuable. The work of skin and fur requires a true expertise.

There is also the historical aspect in connection with exotic skins and their origins. This precious link that brings human closer to its origins.

Each time when we create a model, we want develop a timeless creation. What is important for us Is that our customer always find the same pleasure to wear the model he or she has selected, year after year. Our models are designed like precious jewels. What is important for us is to respect our commitments, rigor, and provide the highest quality to our customers. Be as exigent as could be your clients. And above all always be in a dynamic of creation and discovery in order to preserve the excellence of each model.

– What is your vision of the luxury leather industry and the drive behind your “customer-first” mission?
We are animated by the desire to create and provide exclusive models and services to our customers, by the permanent expectations that we have regarding our creations. We select and use the best skins, work with high skilled specialist workshops in France, look for exclusive leathers… This is the “spirit” of our work – this is how we consider “luxe”.

Our customers are people who have high expectations, in terms of style (they know exactly what they like), in terms of quality (they are sensitive to refined items), in terms of services (they appreciate to be considered as exclusive people, since we can personalized our models to their taste in terms of colors and type of skins).

We receive our customers on our showroom by appointment, so they can count on our full attention. We want our showroom to be a “secret” place, where our customers can discover our luxurious and exclusive creations and imagine with our help and advice a personalized model. We are very reactive to an appointment request, and we are able to arrange the meeting very quickly, according to the availability of our customers.

– Where would you like to see your company grow to in the next several years?
That is a interesting question. Actually, our fashion house is today at the beginning of its story, we are based in Paris and have a permanent showroom in this fashion capital. We would like to develop this Parisian address with customers from all around the world.

Regarding our development abroad, it is a bit early to say exactly where we will develop. Our collection receives very encouraging feedback from the Middle East, Germany and the United States market. We are therefore particularly careful to these areas.

All the states around France (Italy, England, Germany, Switzerland…) are also important for us. The fashion industry is deeply rooted in Europe and Paris is one of the heart of the fashion dynamic. As we also love to work furs, we are also necessarily sensitive to the northern Europe market and Asia.

We also plan to develop our distribution channels worldwide with collaborations with exclusive and luxury boutiques around the world.

To view all of their leather fashion collection, please visit LAS8 Paris at at: www.las8-paris.com

Jeanette Doeze launched Soul Suites in Antwerp, Belgium. Soul Suites features ultra comfortable suites and is conveniently located in the South of Antwerp, which is known for it’s vibrancy, highly recommended restaurants and cocktail bars, galleries and a diverse range of shops.

Jeanette Doeze previously owned and managed the delightful B&B Slapen Enzo, which she expanded and renovated into the current Maison Delaneau.

Soul Suites are bright serene spaces decorated by Jeanne van de Meulengraaf. Each suite comprises a sperate, sumptuous bedroom, large bathroom, living room and open style kitchen with a mix of elegant, modern and vintage furniture.

All apartments are approximately 70m2, which makes them extremely spacious. Wireless internet is provided at no charge.

When the weather is nice, you can relax on your own private terrace.

Suite guests can find numerous restaurants, cafés and galleries, located nearby.

Soul Suites is located a 10-minute walk from the Museum of Contemporary Art. The Geuzenstraat tram stop is a 2-minute walk away and brings you to the Groenplaats in 2 stops.

The room rate is 150 per night.

For additional information, please visit: www.soulsuites.com

SOUL SUITES
Marnixplaats 14
2000 Antwerp, Belguim
info@soulsuites.com
+32 (0)471285716

Courtesy of: Manto Gallery

For an art aficionado or antique collector, Europe is a literal treasure trove of hand-crafted goods from centuries past, in addition to numerous masterpieces from contemporary talents.

But how do you find the right art pieces for you. The knowledgeable concierge teams at Europe’s Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts are your ticket for success.

Beyond the overcrowded gallery trails, the Four Seasons local experts can arrange artful experiences for you to enjoy. View a private collection or attend a top auction. The options are endless.

The Four Seasons is offering the Cultural Capitals Programme to entice avid art and antique collectors off the beaten track to private galleries, artisans and auction houses in Europe’s most alluring cities.

In March, hoards of antique lovers flocked to Paris to the famous Parc des Princes (March 20 to 21), where some 250 exhibitors displayed one-of-a-kind furniture, silverware, artwork, jewelery and objects.

Novice collectors should put themselves in the hands of the concierge team at Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris, who will guide guests through the fair, offer tips on the best sellers and even arrange an expert escort.

In a tiny lane in Old Prague sits the brand new Manto Gallery. Visitors are encouraged to create their very own art pieces against the inspirational backdrop of Antonin Manto’s most striking works. Visitors learn the traditional art of glass painting before passing their designs through an 800°C (1,470°F) kiln and watching them come to life.

If you’d like to enjoy other secrets the city has to offer, the concierge team at Four Seasons Hotel Prague has endless tips for art lovers and can even arrange private tours of the Lobkowicz Palace’s private art collections with Prince Lobkowicz himself.

In Budapest, the Nagyházi Gallery on Járőr Street has been drawing international collectors since 1984. Hungary’s first auction house, this gallery has grown from a modest 60-square-metre (645-square-foot) space to a multi-storey gallery that spans over 200 square metres (2,150 square feet) and hosts 10 to 12 auctions every year.

Concierge staff at Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest, an exquisite Art Nouveau landmark, will arrange home delivery of guests’ precious findings, which may include fine art, sculptures, furniture, watches, jewellery, folk objects and china.

Visitors to Lisbon’s Tile Museum can see a collection spanning five centuries of the decorative tiles, called azulejos, that cover the city. Housed in the monastic building of the Madre de Deus Convent, this unusual museum has one of the most magnificent interiors in the city and is home to the largest collection of its kind in the world.

In addition to being another reflection of the fine nobility and charm of historic Portugal, Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon is home to the largest contemporary art collection in the city. In the 1950s, a group of local entrepreneurs committed to showcasing contemporary artists in a new hotel, which today represents the region’s rich history and its vibrant present.

Visit Four Seasons Magazine online for endless tips for travelers to help you get to the heart of your destination.