The iconic Ruhr Valley in northern Germany has seen its share of ups and downs. The area has been hit hard with the decline of the steel industry. Many idle factories and high unemployment were the result. But you can now enjoy the Ruhr Valley by bike.

The popular, Ruhr Valley Cycle Route has been rated by the German Cyclists’ Federation as a four-star, premium bike route. Ruhr Valley Cycle Route includes greater than 140 miles of scenic countryside and the Ruhr’s industrial region.

Germany is known for expense luxury cars flying down the Autobahn at amazing speeds. But don’t worry. Discover Ruhr Valley by bike and be pleased it’s almost entirely free of cars. As you ride along, take in the sights such as the famous Ruhr River, beautiful forests and even industrial monuments.

As your cycle trip continues, you’ll ride through medieval towns, river docks of Duisburg, Lake Baldeney in Essen and the mining area of Muttental valley.

The terrain varies. Expect to ride up some steep climbs. The main portion of more challenging terrain is within the first 35 kilometers. Once past, you will enjoy a relatively flat riding experience.

Cycling in Germany is very popular. You can find over 200 long-distance cycle routes in this Western Europe country. It’s a wonderful way to see the Germany up close and enjoy its major cities and unspoiled lands.

One of the many treats to exploring Ruhr Valley by bike, is to break your trip up and enjoy the local culture. You’ll find cyclist-friendly accommodations to sty at. You can choose from quaint farms to even ancient, castle hotels. What an experience.

If you would like to vacation in German and Ruhr Valley by bike, let us know. We can help you arrange your entire travel itinerary. We hope you enjoy our luxury blog as we share the best in the luxury industry.

Photo: German National Tourist Board

The goal of a Le Cordon Bleu school is to help prepare its students for an exciting career covering culinary arts to culinary operations and management. This well known institution is recognized as the biggest network of culinary and hospitality schools anywhere in the world.

A new Le Cordon Bleu school is scheduled to open in Paris, France. The new school opens June, 22, 2016 and will be located on the banks of the Seine River, near the Statue of Liberty. The new culinary school is also next to the famous Beaugrenelle shopping centre, nearby the iconic Eiffel Tower.

It’s expected that the newest Le Cordon Bleu school will enroll greater than 1,000 culinary students each year. They will learn all there is to know about culinary arts and wine, hotel and restaurant management. Their training program education will prepare them for the fast, growing culinary industry.

The Paris school is 4,000 square meters in size and will feature the latest modern technology and equipment. The stylish, school building was designed and built to be eco-friendly. With a contemporary look, it was made out of aluminum and glass.

As the world’s population continues to grow, so does the number of restaurants. It’s been reported that there is a shortage of chefs. A key driver is the relatively low salary they receive. Receiving an education from a top culinary arts and hotel management institute like Le Cordon Bleu can be quite expensive. The chef profession has always seen a high turnover ration. But the abundance of TV chef shows tend to overly glamorize the profession. It’s hard work and long hours. The result is many chefs unfortunately quit.

Below is a summary of just a few of the many features student will enjoy at the new Le Cordon Bleu school in Paris France.

• 7 practical classrooms for cuisine, pastry and boulangerie lessons, including one classroom that has been specially designed for teaching Asian cuisine: Thai, Japanese and Chinese.
• 6 modular classrooms that can be transformed into a 420 m² event space
• 3 large, demonstration rooms
• 1 workshop that’s dedicated to individual or group lessons for cuisine amateurs
• 1 cellar-style room that is dedicated to Wine and Management
• 1 boutique that carries a wide range of products and gourmet gifts. They are carefully selected by Le Cordon Bleu Chefs, as well as an array of cuisine and pastry equipment
• 1 student area with multimedia equipment and large library. Find a wide selection of international culinary books and magazines
• Le Cordon Bleu Café gives students and passers by the opportunity to try a range of quality goods either on site or at home

As part of the eco-friendly design, the building’s roof features a large vegetable garden that is 800 square meters in size. Designed to be energy autonomous, the roof, vegetable garden uses heat from the kitchen hoods. That heat then heats up the green house. Rainwater is collected in a rooftop tank and used ot water th plants.

Not only to grow vegetables, but the roof garden also provides a hands-on way for students to learn about how various fruit, vegetables, herbs and edible flowers can be grown in a city environment.

Le Cordon Bleu provides students around the world training programs covering the following fields: gastronomy, wine, tourism and hotel. Choose from different lengths of programs from an initiation level up to receiving an MBA degree.

If you desire to have a career in the culinary field, then be sure to check out a Le Cordon Bleu school where you live. We enjoy sharing the latest news and food industry announcements. Be sure to stop by again and follow our luxury blog.

Photo: Le Cordon Bleu

For high-end travelers who desire the best when taking a luxury vacation, UltraVilla has added over a dozen, new luxury villas to its portfolio. Staying in a luxury villa continues to be a hot trend, as we begin to ramp up the 2016 travel season.

UltraVilla is a consortium of properties by invitation-only. The company brings together the most exclusive, luxury vacation villas, resorts, urban apartments and lodges. They are the world’s first, global rental consultancy and features the best villa experts.

UltraVilla launched last year and is founded by luxury villa, industry leaders Ileana von Hirsch of Five Star Greece, Marina Gratsos of Carpe Diem Luxury Travel, Andrew Loyd of Loyd Townsend Rose and Madelyn Byrne of Paris Perfect. Their combined expertise in luxury accommodations and advice is invaluable. It doesn’t matter whether you want a small, boutique property in rainforest of Costa Rica or a mega, luxury villa in Greece. They offer over 30 experienced members, who provide advice and recommendations about the world’s most exclusive and exciting luxury properties.

Their simple to use directory is ideal for both high-end travelers, as well as travel agents. Don’t make a mistake and blindly book a luxury villa online without doing some research.

We now want to share some of the hottest, rental properties. Take a look at these luxury villas and make it a VIP experience. Why not make your next vacation a memorable one?

Fiji:
In April, Vatuvara Private Islands will have their grand opening. Consisting of 2 islands named Kaibu and Vatuvara, they provide the perfect locale for an all-inclusive haven. These islands in Fiji’s northern Lau waters can only be accessed by private plane. Choose from 4 different, one-bedroom villas.

Costa Rica:
Later this year, Papagayo Luxury will open a gorgeous, five-suite named Villa Magayon (featured photo). This luxury villa provides direct access to the Pacific Ocean. Explore the nearby islands by kayak. This incredible, Peninsula Papagayo resort offers guests the ultimate in luxury amenities and complete privacy. .

Vista de Oro is new, OTT luxury holiday home. It is a beautiful place that was completely refurbished by the owner. You will appreciate the expansive stonework and custom tile work.

Golden Bull Estate offers outstanding Pacific views, perched from its mountain top location. Covering over 2,200 acres, this six bedroom, luxury mansion is a special place. It also features three guest bungalows. Take a dip in the free-form infinity pool or have a cocktail at the bar. To burn off some calories, be sure to try the huge, professional gymnasium. There are lots of nearby, outdoor activities to try like zipline canopy tours , hiking or taking surf lessons.

Spain:
Casa Inés is in the north-west part of Spain and one of the most stylish, luxury estates found in popular Ibiza. This estate resides on eight hectares of land. The grounds include 900 trees and surrounded by scenic terraces of olive, fruit and almond orchards. You’ll also find rolling, pine forests.

France:
Domaine de Ronsard is located in Provence. It’s one of the finest, Saint Rémy homes. The landscaped gardens consist of around 3,000 olive trees and water features. Swim in the 20-metre heated pool. This luxury home is the perfect retreat. The interior is highlighted by tile and stone floors, enduit walls and amazing, antique fireplaces. The home’s decor includes beautiful antiques that provide guests an authentic, Provence experience.

Greece:
Syros IK is represented by Five Star Greece. Located on the island of Syros, this stunning, 19th century waterfront mansion is so close to the ocean, you and see and hear the sea wave lapping the exterior walls of the house.

New Zealand:
Found in Queenstown, Jack’s Point Lake House was recently completed. It’s a spacious, four-bedroom house that’s perfect for a wonderful getaway. This Jack’s Point property is lake front and features an incredible media room, equipped with a curved plasma screen. Enjoy breath-taking views of the nearby mountains and natural preserve, from the outdoor entertaining area. It includes a wood fireplace, large hot tub, barbecue and extensive seating for that perfect social gathering or party.

Don’t just settle for a luxury hotel or resort. Beat the crowds and enjoy your next vacation in VIP style. There are amazing luxury villas located all around the world. If you want the perfect place to celebrate a honeymoon, anniversary, family gathering or a romantic getaway for two, do it the right way.

The Life of Luxury can help plan and book your next luxury vacation. Choose from the world’s best luxury villas. Stop back soon and read more travel industry articles on our luxury blog.

Photo: Villa Magayon

Prague is a beautiful city that is a must for travelers to visit. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or vacation, the luxury Corinthia Hotel Prague is the place to stay.

Corinthia Hotel Prague, in Czech Republic has introduced their “Romance Blooms in Prague” package to experience one of the most romantic cities in all of the world.

If you make plans to be in Prague over the long Valentine’s Day weekend, guests who book the “Romance Blooms in Prague” package offer can enjoy a free upgrade to a Deluxe Queen Room with City View (pending availability), a romantic dinner for two on the night of the 14th in the Rickshaw or Grill Restaurant and a scenic boat trip on the gorgeous Vltava River.

Indulge and enjoy the rich culture of Prague. The Corinthia Hotel Prague is actually a landmark in itself. The luxury hotel sits upon one of Prague’s seven hills and offers magnificent panoramic views of the popular capital city. Prague is rich in history. Walking the historic streets allows you to personally enjoy this amazing European city.

Upon your arrival, experience a personalized check-in and welcome drink. In your room, you’ll notice traditional home-made pastries plus rose petals in your luxury hotel room. The next morning, enjoy a full buffet breakfast.

The Corinthia Hotel Prague offers three dedicated executive floors. They include both a business lounge and executive lounge. This luxury hotel is ideal for both vacationers and business travelers.

The Apollo Day Spa is located on the top floor of the hotel and provide stunning, panoramic views of Prague. Guests will enjoy unlimited access to the spa and receive a 10% discount on spa massages.

This luxury travel package is valid from February 12 to 17, subject to availability starting from €160 (approximately $215) for a Superior Room and €210 (approximately $285) for an Executive Room, including VAT and City Tax. Enjoy a VIP experience in the beautiful and historic city of Prague.

The Corinthia portfolio includes a selection of luxury properties. Including are the recently opened Corinthia Hotel in London, plus award-winning Corinthia Hotels in Malta, Lisbon, Budapest, Prague, St Petersburg, and Tripoli.

If you would like book a reservation to Prague and stay at the luxurious Corinthia Hotel Prague, please contact The Life of Luxury and we can assist with all of your travel plans. Return again to follow this luxury blog and read about the latest luxury travel stories and top destinations around the world.

The BAUERs Il Palazzo hotel in Venice, Italy will be hosting a fabulous Christmas dinner. Make this landmark hotel the perfect choice to enjoy an unbelievable, VIP experience.

The BAUERs Christmas experience is offered each year and provides a festive and memorable time for all. This year’s event will be held at the De Pisis Restaurant, which is the gourmet restaurant at the Il Palazzo hotel in Venice, Italy.

It’s a time to relax and enjoy the Christmas holiday season in an elegant environment. Whether it’s with family or friends, make this a magical night. Located near the world famous Grand Canal in Venice, the opportunity to eat a fine meal at De Pisis Restaurant should not be missed.

The dinner will be offered on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Enjoy a six-course meal that will tantalize your taste buds. The dishes will all be inspired by both Italian style and taste.

On Christmas Eve, your dinner has a fish theme, beginning with Cuttlefish confit and Scallops. They will be served in a tripe ragout that sounds so delicious. For your first course, try a mouth-watering Seafood risotto with fishmonger, scaled, mussels and shrimps. Next is an enticing roasted sole with cardoons, horseradish and tasty applesauce. Finish your meal with a tasty pomegranate sorbet and the warm Panettone with mascarpone and coffee.

Guests who come on Christmas Day will be treated to a wonderful dinner consisting of a delicate duck salad. Next will be a serving of marinated beef and pieces of crispy polenta. There will be pleasant risotto and the braised veal cheek. For dessert lovers, end your meal with pomegranate sorbet plus divine chocolate bar that will be adorned by candied orange and pistachio gelato. Yum!

As you gaze out the window of De Pisis Restaurant at the Il Palazzo Hotel, be sure to savoir the incredible views of the nearby Chiesa di Santa Maria della Salute. What a fine dining treat.

This is a dressy occasion and you will be able to appreciate good company, wonderful ambiance and a terrific meal. Experience the beauty of Christmas at The BAUERs.

Spend Christmas in Venice, Italy and enjoy a fine dining experience at The BAUERs – Il Palazzo Hotel. The Life of Luxury can help you plan that last minute trip to Europe and see the amazing sights of Italy. Return often to follow this luxury blog. Read about the latest luxury travel news and package deals.

Photo: The BAUERs

If you are traveling to Switzerland this winter to try either skiing or snowboarding, then be sure to check out the new Ski Safari program at The Alpina Gstaad luxury hotel in Switzerland.

Both snowboarders and skiers will love this adventure deal. The new program allows you to either ski or snowboard at up to three different Alpine resorts in a day. What a terrific opportunity to ski at some of the best resorts in Europe and do it all VIP style.

This luxury travel package begins at The Alpina Gstaad luxury hotel with a private shuttle service in either a Range Rover Autobiography or Mercedes V-Class sedan. You will transported to the nearby heliport in Gstaad. Next, board a helicopter for a scenic 25 minute ride that provides awesome views. You arrive at St. Moritz Corvatsch, which places smack in the middle of the world famous ski area of St. Moritz.

Enjoy your time skiing or boarding for several hours, then it’s off to your next luxury ski resort. Head back to the airport and the helicopter takes you to Zermatt’s Testa Grigia. Testa Grigia is on the Italian part of the iconic Matterhorn mountain.

Spend a few more hours at this popular, Swiss ski resort and grab a delicious lunch in the town of Zermatt. It’s back to the airport for another helicopter ride. This time your destination is back to Gstaad, where you can ski there until the sun goes down on a fabulous ski day in the picturesque Swiss Alps.

The price for the Ski Safari at The Alpina Gstaad begins at CHF 12,000 or around US $11,910. The price includes one night in a Deluxe Room Schönried at The Alpina Gstaad hotel and breakfast, your private shuttle to and from the airports at Gstaad, St. Moritz and Zermatt, all your helicopter trips, ski passes at all three ski resorts and lunch. The ski package also includes a CHF 100 culinary credit plus all your taxes and even the VAT.

Eric Favre is the managing director at the hotel and was quoted, “Our discerning clients often have special requests. The Alpina Gstaad’s staff has experience in providing the unexpected.”

For more information about The Alpina Gstaad’s Ski Safari and its other winter packages and programs, please visit Alpina Gstaad

This winter, take a luxury travel getaway to remember. Whether it’s to a tropical location with warm weather or a ski vacation to a top ski resort around the world, go in VIP style. In Switzerland, choose the The Alpina Gstaad hotel. Remember to stop by again and read our popular luxury blog. The world awaits and it’s time to start your journey and explore it.

Photo: The Alpina Gstaad

A luxury chalet is one of many traditional wooden lodges found in the scenic Alps of Europe.  Most people don’t immediately place a luxury tag to a log cabin, but don’t be misled. Many of these chalets are spectacular and luxurious, in every sense of the word.

While a luxury chalet may certainly look comfortable, it would be hard to say that a log cabin is in any way luxurious. Just like hotels, a winter luxury chalet comes in many sizes and categories. We want to share some of these luxury winter chalets that can stand up to any luxury villa and hold its own.

La Grande Roche Chalet in Corchevel, France
It’s the perfect place for the entire family with it’s designer interior, private cinema room and pool. La Grande Roche in Corchevel (photo above) even comes complete with a home theatre. This three-level luxury Chalet is intended for an ultra-exclusive family vacation. The entire first floor is dedicated to space for children, with the remaining 550 square meters are a paradise for adults. Below ground, there is also a pool, fitness area, and yes, its very own private home theatre.

Aurelio Clubhouse in Austria: The Chalet butler
This exclusive nine-room Chalet is connected to the five-star Hotel & Spa Aurelio by an underground tunnel. Yes read this correctly – a tunnel. In addition to the normal necessities of luxury Chalet life, this ski palace also has a 24-hour butler. Six double rooms, two junior suites and a master suite provide space for up to 20 people. In addition to the onsite wellness oasis, the fireplace in the library is an excellent place to curl up and relax.

Zermatt Peak in Switzerland
Here’s a winter chalet that is fit for even master spy James Bond. A true Alpine jewel, this luxury lodge has been nominated for numerous international design and architecture prizes. With a look that would make the perfect backdrop for a James Bond film, there are five bedrooms, a spa area complete with sauna, an outdoor whirlpool, fitness room, and an indoor pool. Whew. No need to be tired, there are four staff onsite that attend to whatever else you might need.

Chalet Maria in St. Anton, Austria
Antique charm, paneled ceilings, and rich parquet flooring provide an impressive first look at this lovely Chalet, which is widely known as the most stylish in the entire region. From the generous main hall, guests can enjoy the stunning Alpine panorama, and despite the traditional atmosphere, rest assured that this 550 square meter hide-away is outfitted with all the modern technology you could need.

Chalet Ref. Voglite in Val d’Isere in France
A one-time convent, Chalet Ref. Voglite in Val d’Isere retains some of the air of seclusion necessary for its former duties to this day. That being said, there have since been some updates… An interior pool leads outdoors into the snow-covered mountain world. Sauna and massage room are both right next door, and each of the four bedrooms features its own private bath.

Chalet Maria in St. Anton, Austria
Antique charm, paneled ceilings, and rich parquet flooring provide an impressive first look at this lovely Chalet, which is widely known as the most stylish in the entire region. From the generous main hall, guests can enjoy the stunning Alpine panorama, and despite the traditional atmosphere, rest assured that this 550 square meter hide-away is outfitted with all the modern technology you could need.

Please contact The Life of Luxury to book your travel reservation and stay at a luxury chalet in the Alps of Europe. If you enjoy reading about luxury travel, then return and follow this popular luxury blog.

Isola Bella is Sicily’s famous nature island preserve. Italy’s Ragosta Hotels Collection has combined “luxury with nature” with the launch of its chic new boutique resort, La Plage Resort.

La Plage Resort was created to attract the growing travel trend of up-market travelers seeking an extraordinary hospitality experience that incorporates elements of their own lifestyles, including modern yet stylish accommodations and innovative dining options.

La Plage Resort opened as a five-star boutique property with only 61 guestrooms and suites. La Plage Resort was designed by the architecture firm of Pantha, and created on the philosophy of “luxury based on nature.”

The luxury resort is located in a secular pine forest, and all design aspects and furnishing feature natural elements such as stone, woods and plants.

Below are some of La Plage Resort amenities:

Guestroom and Suites:
* Standard Rooms
* Bungalow Garden View Rooms
* Bungalow Sea View Rooms
* Deluxe Bungalow Sea View Rooms
* Suites
* Deluxe Suits

Dining:
* Fusion Restaurant featuring Italian and Asian cuisine overlooking Isola Bella
* Lounge Bar located near Fusion Restaurant
* Seaside Bar with refreshment services
* Reception halls with accommodations for up to 200 guests

SPA/Fitness:
* On-site ExPure SPA facilities featuring four-person Jacuzzi, emotional shower, Turkish bath, massage room, relaxation area with tea corner and Panoramic solarium
* Gym

Additional services and signature amenities at the resort include: in-room customized toiletries from ExPure SPA, Amaretto Lazzaroni cookies, luxurious linens, robes and towels.

In addition to enjoying the uber-luxury items in the guestrooms and villas travelers will be able to customize their hotel stay in the manner in which they are accustomed but with an element of surprise and pure decadence.

For additional information, please visit La Plage Resort

The Life of Luxury can make your luxury travel dream come true. Travel the world and stay at the best luxury hotels like the La Plage Resort in Italy. Why settle for second best? Come back often to view our luxury blog. Read about the latest luxury travel news.

Courtesy of: La Plage Resort

Lake Geneva is located in the French-speaking part of beautiful Western Switzerland. As winter gets closer, we are highlighting 7 reasons to love Lake Geneva.

The Lake Geneva region is a top destination in Switzerland. People from around the world come here all throughout the year to enjoy the scenery and immerse themselves in the area’s rich culture and history.

So whether you are looking to try wine wasting in the Lavaux vineyards, take a boat our on Lake Geneva or visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site that overlooks Lake Geneva and the towering Swiss Alps, enjoy your stay.

1) Modern Times Hotel:
To compliment the Chaplin Museum, the Modern Times Hotel will be open in autumn/winter 2015. Located in Vevey, this luxury 4-star hotel welcomes both leisure and business travelers. The Modern Times Hotel has 145 rooms and also offers a fitness room, 5 conference rooms, and a bar/lounge.

2) The Hotel Royal Savoy Reopens in Lausanne:
The legendary Hotel Royal Savoy just reopened after a $100 million project that included both an expansion and renovation. Found in Lausanne, the luxury Hotel Royal Savoy is a five-star property. This hotel was a favorite of royals when it first opened up back in 1906. The hotel’s grand façade still remains, although a major new addition was completed. The Hotel Royal Savoy features 196 rooms that included 37 suites and junior suites. For 360° panoramic views of Lausanne, the Swiss Alps and scenic Lake Geneva, be sure to try the new rooftop Sky Terrace.

3) Chaplin’s World:
The Modern Times Museum which will open in new Spring 2016. This museum will be dedicated to the life and times of filmmaker and actor Charlie Chaplin. The museum is situated in Chaplin’s mansion/ The property is surrounded by 34 acres of gorgeous gardens, winding pathways and terraces that offer incredible views of Lake Geneva and the nearby Alps.

4) Christmas Markets:
The Montreux Noel is the most famous Christmas Market in Switzerland. This year, the event celebrates its 21st anniversary. You will find greater than 150 craftspeople who decorate their colorful chalets all along the shores of Lake Geneva during winter. It’s a popular event and the area attracts around 500,000 visitors. The Christmans market is open now until December 24, 2015.

5) Ski Deals:
Get great deals at some ski hotels for just CHF20 ($20 US). Ten participating 10 hotels include Glacier 3000, Les Diablerets and Villars. Enjoy these ski hotel deals between January 4 to February 5 and again through March 7 to April 10, 2016. The Super Pass Gstaad-Alpes Vaudoises-Adelboden-Lenk allows skiers to access about 630 kilometers of ski slopes and 188 lifts.

6) Tout un Monde:
High above the lush vineyards of the Lavaux in the village of Grandvaux, Tout un Monde overlooks the Alps and Lake Geneva. The new Tout un Monde restaurant offers a fine experience and incredible food from chef Yohan Magne.

7) Château‐d’Oex: The International Hot‐Air Balloon Festival:
The amazing village of Château-d’Oex will again be the host of the 38th annual Festival International de Ballons. This festival runs between January 23 and 31, 2015. Château-d’Oex is surrounded by mountains and nice weather. Attendees can expect to see greater than balloons from 20 countries. Look up tot he sky and enjoy the show!

The Life of Luxury can help you plan a trip to Lake Geneva, Switzerland. We can reserve and book your air travel, hotel accommodations and local sightseeing. Return often to follow this luxury blog and read about other luxury travel destination around the world.

Photo: Régis Colombo / Lake Geneva Region

Located in central Germany, Luther Country is a popular travel destination that’s dedicated to Martin Luther. Luther is considered the Father of Protestant Reformation. Luther Country is an incredible area that includes beautiful landscapes, amazing cultural events, timeless art and mouth-watering cuisine.

A visit to Germany’s Luther Country allows tourists the chance to literally walk in Martin Luther’s footsteps.

The Luther Trail or “Lutherweg” in German – is a wonderful scenic route in Germany. It’s a blend of nature, culture and a great overview of Martin Luther and the history of Reformation.

The region of Luther Country is packed with fascianting churches, quaint villages and museums across Thuringia, and Saxony-Anhalt. The area is a top pilgrimage destination for Protestants – particularly Lutherans.

About 1,000 miles of the Luther Trail can be found within Luther Country, starting in the city of Lutherstadt Wittenberg. Be sure to pay a visit to the former Augustinian Monastery. This location is where Martin Luther actually lived as a monk. Continue on through the cities of Lutherstadt Eisleben, Dessau-Roßlau, Halle (Saale), Mansfeld-Lutherstadt and Erfurt. During each stop, take in the rich history and learn interesting facts about the Reformation.

Photo: Frank Boxler, IMG Sachsen-Anhalt

You can actually see both the Martin Luther Birth House and Martin Luther Death House in the city of Eisleben. Observe various artifacts in Luther’s birth house, which actually became a museum way back in 1693. There is a Martin Luther antique portrait on display, as well as pieces of art and books from his childhood years.

The Martin Luther Death House had got through a renovation in early 2013 and reopened. Inside you will find a museum comprised of rooms that were important to his death. Right after Luther’s death, a plaster cast made of both his face and hands. You can see the death mark on display. Also available for viewing is the original cloth that was draped over Martin Luther’s coffin.

For example, the city of Erfurt in Luther Country created a route titled the “Luther Mile.” It guides hikers through Erfurt to view various museums, churches and buildings that have a historical significance.

If you have made plans to visit Germany this holiday season, then be sure to visit the popular region and experience a traditional Christmas similar to how it was celebrated 500 years ago. In Erfurt, enjoy a wonderful journey back in time when what was important included handmade crafts, traditional food and drinks, plus a variety of live music and entertainment. The famous Erfurt Christmas Market is a fabulous, cultural experience that should not be missed. The Christmas event is the biggest Christmas market held in Southern Luther Country. Highlights for visitors, both young and old are a giant Ferris wheel and a large pyramid.

Another significant stop is the mighty Wartburg Castle. Luther actually stayed her and is the location he translated the New Testament into German.

Another popular pilgrimage excursion is via the Way of St. James. It’s a collection of old pilgrimage routes that cuts right through Luther Country. On your journey, you’ll pass through additional Reformation cities, such as Lutherstadt Eisleben and Magdeburg.

For music lovers, uncover this region and discover the rich history of musical heritage. Just a few of famous musical composers from Luther Country include Richard Wagner, George Frederic Handel, and of course Johann Sebastian Bach,.

A visit to Lutheran Country is a memorable experience, especially for those who want to learn more about Martin Luther – leader of the Protestant Reformation. We can help you plan your luxury travel itinerary to Germany and include the most historically important destinations. Read more stories like this by following our luxury blog.

Photo: Visit Luther

The world famous Palace at Versailles in France has housed both kings and queens from 1682 until 1790, during the time of the French Revolution. Now the French city, just outside of Paris will be the location of a new Versailles luxury hotel, although it will likely be years away from actually opening.

First reported by the French newspaper Journal du Dimanche, the Chateau de Versailles announced it had begun plans to open a Versailles luxury hotel. The site will be located on the palace ground’s south-eastern corner.

The first phase of the process is to renovate three buildings on the Versailles palace site that are quite run down. Those three buildings built in the 1680’s are named – Petit Contrôle, Pavilion of the First 100 Steps and the Grand Contrôle. Once completed, the new Versailles luxury hotel will be built within the three buildings from the 17th century.

The luxury hotel will actually be located outside the gates of the famous Versailles palace, but offering spectacular views of Versailles and the surrounding area.

It’s estimated that the initial building renovation will cost between 4 and 7 million Euros or approximately $4.484 to $7.847 million dollars. The luxury hotel will definitely increase tourism revenue

The project will go out for bid and the winner will not only get the large undertaking to build the new Versailles luxury hotel, but will also have the right to operate the hotel for a time period of 60 years.

If you get the chance to ever visit France, be sure to see the impressive Versailles palace. During the French Revolution, the palace of Versailles had all of its furnishings removed. The Tuileries in Paris then became the new royal residence of France.

Louis XVI was the last king you lived in Versailles but fleed during the French Revolution. Condemned to death for treason, Louis XVI then executed on January 21, 1793, ending a mighty reign.

The Château de Versailles was also a big part of world history. It was the location World War I officially ended. The Treaty of Versailles was signed there on June 28, 1919.

Once built, it will be an honor to stay at the Versailles luxury hotel near Paris, France. World famous and years of rich history, you’ll be able to stay on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles. The Life of Luxury can help you book your luxury travel reservation to France. Stay in VIP style and enjoy luxury amenities. Come back soon and read our luxury blog.

Photo: Château de Versailles – © EPV / Ch. Milet