By Jessica Morelock
With thousands of luxury hotels in the world to choose from, deciding on which to include on a list of the best hotels is a daunting task. The following hotels are all luxury hotels that provide exceptional service and amenities to their guests. All the hotels have the comforts that are standard with five-star hotels, such as satellite television, broadband and wireless Internet, fitness centers, pools, room service and concierge service. However, these hotels are included in the list of the best hotels in the world for the features, services and location that give them a distinctive edge over other properties.
Burj Al Arab
Photo by Barth Juergen
On the shores of the Persian Gulf in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai, the Burj Al Arab is in a class of its own. Towering more than 1,000 feet over Jumeirah beach, the modern architectural wonder that is the Burj Al Arab was designed in the shape of a traditional Arab dhow, which is a sailing vessel rigged with one or more lateen sails. Guests can arrive by helicopter or be chauffeured from the airport in a Rolls Royce Phantom. After you have dinner in the world's tallest atrium, you can enjoy a relaxing ride along the coast in an Aston Martin, Ferrari or Lamborghini that can be rented for the day.
Burj Al Arab
P.O. Box 74147, Dubai, UAE
Phone: 971-430-17777
Fax: 971-430-17000
www.jumeirah.com
Oberoi Udaivilas
Photo by Dian Polito
Situated on the banks of Lake Pichola in the province of Rajasthan in India, the Oberoi Udaivilas overflows with royal opulence. Designed as a replica of an Indian palace, its rooms offer lake views and views of the historic City Palace in Udaipur. The Oberoi Udaivilas was constructed of marble and sandstone and is layered in gold leaf. After you are met by your chauffeur at the airport, you will be taken to Lake Pichola, where you will be delivered to your hotel by a private ferry. Not only will you enjoy scrumptious regional Indian cuisine, but you can relax on the 30-acre property that has courtyards, pools, gardens and canals.
The Oberoi Udaivilas,
Udaipur - 313001,
Rajasthan India
Phone: 912-942-433300
Fax: 912-942-433200
www.udaivilas.com
Kenwood Inn & Spa
Photo by Matt Selmon M.D.
Designed in the spirit of a Mediterranean villa and located in the tranquil setting of the wineries of Sonoma Valley, California, the Kenwood Inn and Spa pampers its guests with warm, cozy and inviting luxury. In addition to enjoying the beautiful courtyards, climbing ivy and saltwater pools, guests can receive in-room spa treatments. Additionally, each of the 29 rooms at the Kenwood Inn and Spa is decorated with a Tuscan flare with its own fireplace and large jetted tub to promote tranquility. Be advised that none of the rooms have television and all guests must be 18 or older.
Kenwood Inn and Spa
10400 Sonoma Highway
Kenwood, California 95452
Phone: 707-833-1293
Fax: 707-833-1247
www.kenwoodinn.com
Alvear Palace Hotel
Photo by Andres Mendana
Originally built in 1932 as a lavish haven for Europeans who visited Argentina, the Alvear Palace Hotel remains an oasis of affluence in Buenos Aries. This hotel is decorated in the style of Louis XV and Louis XIV. Crystal chandeliers, gold accents and famous artists adorn its walls. Not only will you enjoy its magnificent decor, but you will be treated to your own butler and shopper to take care of your every need.
Alvear Palace Hotel
Alvear Ave. 1891 (C1129AAA)
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone: 5411-4808-2100
www.alvearpalace.com
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About the Author:
Jessica Morelock began her professional writing career in 2007, after a three-year stint as a producer and co-host on Sirius Satellite Radio. She has also worked for the airline industry and as a travel agent. She completed a bachelor's degree in political science at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.
