Top hotel picks of the month in Milan, Dubai, Bahamas & Shanghai.

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Top hotel picks of the month in Milan, Dubai, Bahamas & Shanghai.

MILAN
img class=” alignleft size-full wp-image-1420″ style=”float: left; margin: 10px;” title=”World Spa City Stay May 2012″ src=”/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/ws_city_may12_02.jpg” alt=”World Spa City Stay May 2012″ width=”350″ height=”164″ border=”0″ />Bulgari Hotel Milan
On a private street between Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, La Scala and the Accademia di Brera, in a tastefully renovated 18th-century Milanese palazzo is the Bulgari Hotel Milan, situated in the cultural and commercial heart of a city that, behind its austere façades, hides delightful and unexpected courtyards and green spaces. One such space is the Bulgari Hotel’s 4,000-square-meter private garden, a natural extension of the nearby Botanical Garden, a restorative oasis of serenity and relaxation in the midst of Milan’s busy pace. The rooms and suites are all extraordinarily luminous, thanks to ample windows looking out onto the beautiful garden. The hotel’s spa offers all the rituals of contemporary wellness in a setting at once sumptuous and elegant.
When to go: From April to June and late September to October when the temperatures are usually mild.
Room to book: Bulgari Suite situated on the top floor, sitting room with fireplace, private terrace and with a garden view.
Contact: +39 02 805 805 222
Room Rate: From 520 (EUR) to 5,000 (EUR)

Four Seasons
A dramatically reborn 15th-century convent with a mere 118 rooms and suites, the intimate Four Seasons is steps from Milan’s couture houses and financial district on the exclusive Via Gesù between Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga. Offering exceptional quiet within the busy neighbourhood, guest accommodations at the hotel face tranquil inner courtyards or the peaceful Via Gesù. Interiors blend the 15th-century convent’s original architectural details – frescoes, columns and vaulted ceilings – with a sense of contemporary chic. Located on the ground level, the Fitness Center is open daily. Skin care and specific body therapies can be arranged at the nearby GF Ferré Spa.
When to go: From April to June and late September to October when the temperatures are usually mild.
Room to book: The Renaissance Suite is a very large studio room and three large windows overlooking the main courtyard.
Contact: +39 (02) 77088 Room Rate: From 520 EUR to 710 EUR

Park Hyatt
The hotel was recently named one of the “Top 25 European hotels” by Travel + Leisure. Occupying a palace-style building dating back to 1870, the boutique hotel showcases eye-catching interiors designed by Ed Tuttle and a remarkable glass cupola where Lucio Fontana’s ‘Head of Medusa’ serves as a stunning centerpiece. Delight in the many marvelous features of the hotel, from the exquisite embrace of The Spa to a state-of-the-art gym. The hotel’s prime location around Piazza Duomo, Teatro alla Scala and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II make it an ideal base for discovering the well-known attractions of Milan city centre.
When to go: From April to June and late September to October when the temperatures are usually mild.
Room to book: Imperial Suite with extensive city views features living room with original art works.
Contact: +39 (02)8821 1234
Room Rate: From 490 EUR to 6485 EUR

The Gray, Milano
The hotel looks out on the Vittorio Emanuele Gallery, close to Milan’s Cathedral and its most famous shopping streets. From the moment one step into the hotel the perceptive metamorphosis is striking. From the elaborate facade decorated with Art Deco friezes, columns and high-reliefs, to the magnetic modernity of the interior where a purple pouf, the Wengé wooden floor in the hall and the cool white shades have all been chosen for their wow factor. Also noteworthy is the bar with its illuminated tables, to the restaurant where the cutlery creates artistic lamps, and to the rooms with their contemporary metropolitan style.
When to go: From April to June and late September to October when the temperatures are usually mild.
Room to book: Executive Gallery view room, offer a superb view of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele
Contact: +39 (02) 7208951
Room Rate: From 279 EUR to 810 EUR

DUBAI
The Ritz-Carlton
Experience the hotel and discover a private playground in the heart of the vibrant Dubai Marina District. With all the opulently decorated rooms enjoying garden and ocean views, this intimately luxurious resort, situated on 350 meters of the pristine white sands of the Arabian Gulf, is the perfect place to relax and indulge. Guests can bask in the sun and enjoy the warm ocean waters or the refreshing pools and waterfalls within the extensive gardens. Alternatively, taking a soothing spa treatment or savoring an exceptional meal in a breathtaking setting are other ways to fully relax in this delightful property.
When to go: From November to April, during the cooler months
Room to book: The Ritz-Carlton Suite, a beautifully appointed sea view presidential suite.
Contact: 9714 399 4000
Room Rate: From 1,750 (AED) to 2,850 (AED)

Burj Al Arab
Designed to resemble a billowing sail, the hotel soars to a height of 321 meters, dominating the Dubai skyline. Illuminated at night by choreographed lighting representing water and fire – Burj Al Arab is simply individual, inspired and impressive. All luxurious suites at Burj Al Arab range over two floor and magnificent views of Dubai and the Arabian Gulf. Perched by white sandy beaches and bordered by the blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, the hotel is a prime leisure spot for water sports and activities. A private shopper will help one find those little treasures, whilst one experience an oriental massage at the lavish Assawan Spa & Health Club.
When to go: From November to April, during the cooler months
Room to book: Panoramic Suite offers one with magnificent views of the Arabian Gulf through floor to ceiling glass windows in an extremely luxurious setting.
Contact: +971 4 301 7777, +971 4 301 7400
Room Rate: From 5,942 (AED) to 14,679 (AED)

One & Only Royal Mirage
Between the timeless desert and the cosmopolitan charms of the coast, rise majestic palms reflected in cool oasis waters. This is One&Only Royal Mirage, a stylish place of intricate arches, domes, towers and courtyards. In a thriving world-class city renowned for its soaring skyscrapers, One&Only Royal Mirage recalls the romance of Old Arabia, with 65 acres of lush green lawns and immaculate flower beds set along a kilometer of private beachfront. The Palace commands a regal presence along the beachfront, with its 231 exquisitely appointed guest rooms and suites offering amazing Gulf views. Residence & Spa is an intimate sanctuary for those who wish to indulge in the comforts of prosperity.
When to go: From November to April, during the cooler months
Room to book: Royal Suite, The grandest of all accommodation in The Palace, the spacious and separate living room and dining room are linked to a large balcony overlooking Palm Island Bay, only 50 metres away.
Contact: +971 4 399 9999
Room Rate: From 1,854 (AED) to 2,061 (AED)

Armani Hotel
Armani Hotel Dubai promises a ‘home-away-from-home’ experience in line with the Stay with Armani philosophy. The Armani approach goes beyond visual aesthetics, offering unparalleled levels of service based around the signature lifestyle concept. The high-quality furnishings are complemented by a unique range of exclusively designed accessories by Armani/Casa, bringing together innumerable individual elements to create a residence which is stylish, practical and, above all, synonymous with the Armani reputation for excellence. From fast track check-in from the comfort of the suite to personalizing the stay with Armani/SPA, offers a fully tailored sensory experience to suit the needs of every individual.
When to go: From November to April, during the cooler months
Room to book: Armani Dubai Suite faces the Arabian Gulf and also provides spectacular city views
Contact: + 971 4 888 3888
Room Rate: From 1600 (AED) to 7200 (AED)

Al Maha Resort
The internationally-awarded hideaway resort offers personal and seductive experiences of the region’s history and hospitality, in absolute comfort. Built in the style of an ancient Bedouin settlement, the neutral toned ‘tents’ shade individual suites of understated, modern luxury. Each private suite is furnished with original, unique and rare collections of regional artwork and antiques. Embracing the culinary cultures of the East and West, dining at Al Maha is a truly international experience, exciting to the palate, yet remaining relatively simple, honest and ‘homemade’.
When to go: From November to April, during the cooler months
Room to book: The Presidential Suite is the finest suit of the resort.
Contact: + 971 4 832 9900
Room Rate: From 4,500 (AED) to 36,960 (AED)

BAHAMAS
One & Only Ocean Club
Under the deep blue of an endless Bahamian sky, wrapped in the turquoise waters of an exuberant sea, the resort nestles peacefully along a shore of delicate white sand beach a treasured sanctuary of privileged perfection. Renowned for its legendary sophistication and contemporary elegance, the resort was once the private estate of A&P heir Huntington Hartford II. Expansive manicured lawns and towering coconut palms provide an enchanting backdrop to the pristine beaches of Paradise Island. One&Only Ocean Club is a playground of world-class golf, tennis, spa, and of course, water-sports. The spectacular blue waters of the Caribbean are the elixir of Bahamian life, explored with a rich roster of activities, including diving, snorkeling, sailing, and wind-surfing.
When to go: From March to July when the weather of late spring is calm and relaxing.
Room to book: Villa Residences commands an enviable beachfront location
Contact: +242 363 2501, + 954 809 2150
Room Rate: From $ 1,150 to $ 2,200

Kamalame Cay, the Bahamas
Kamalame Cay is a ‘barefoot chic’ Caribbean retreat featuring luxurious seaside rooms and suites in a range of charming, bougainvillea-draped cottages and bungalows, peak roof Balinese beach houses and classic Plantation style villas.
Furnished with art, books, antiques and a collection of South Asian and Bahamian decor, the Great House is a gathering place where guests enjoy cocktails and meals. A white sand path off the garden terrace, leads to a heated, fresh water pool edged in towering Silver Palms as well as a Tiki Bar with open grill that regularly hosts torch-lit, Bahamian beachside banquets enlivened by local “rake & scrape” bands.
When to go: From March to July when the weather of late spring is calm and relaxing.
Room to book: Beach Suites have breathtaking views and cooling sea breezes.
Contact: +1 (876) 632 3213
Room Rate: From $ 407 to $ 4,070

Pink Sands
Pink Sands Resort, located on Harbour Island, part of the Out Islands of the Bahamas, is a 20-acre haven set by the edge of the famous three-mile pink sands beach. Designed by Biba founder Barbara Hulanicki – Pink Sands comprises pastel-colored cottages scattered throughout lush the tropical grounds. One can snooze on a secluded pink sanded beach, explore the unspoiled beauty of nearby Eleuthera Island or enjoy a wide array of water sports, including bone-fishing, reef fishing, deep sea fishing, snorkeling and much more. Romantic candlelight dinners are served al fresco at the Garden Terrace restaurant. The cuisine is Caribbean Bistro with emphasis on fresh fish and seafood. Breakfast and lunch are served seaside at the Blue Bar.
When to go: From March to July when the weather of late spring is calm and relaxing.
Room to book: Bimini Cottage is privately situated with unobstructed views to the Atlantic Ocean and pink sand beach and has a private pathway to the beach.
Contact: + 242 333 2030
Room Rate: From $ 750 to $ 2,650

Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yatch Harbour
Combining Bahamian resort charm and island luxury, it is an all-suite beachfront resort with interior designs sure to please even the most discriminating traveler. The swimming pool contains an infinity edge and lounging area with massage jets – perfect for overlooking the beach. One can eat at Bonefish Folley’s Bar & Grille which has a commanding view of Old Bahama Bay’s expansive marina. One should take time out to do all the things to do on a vacation – fishing, sailing, or nothing at all.
When to go: From March to July when the weather of late spring is calm and relaxing.
Room to book: The Oceanfront Junior Suites are elegant suites offering direct beach access and ocean views.
Contact: + 242 350 6500
Room Rate: From $ 305 to $ 788

Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort
The resort is a tropical oasis nestled on Long Island in the South Bahamas. The resort makes for the perfect Caribbean vacation spot. The resort is comprised of beachfront bungalows and a handful of beautiful new villas, each just steps from one’s own secluded white sand beach. Each bungalow boasts a private veranda with breathtaking views of picture-perfect sunsets and the villas are located on the south side of the property, just a few minutes by foot from the beach house. Each evening, the Beach House becomes a hub of activity where guests can relax in comfort at the resort’s restaurant and Oceanside Bar.
When to go: From March to July when the weather of late spring is calm and relaxing.
Room to book: Beachfront villas have been beautifully designed and reflect the elegant yet relaxed style of the resort.
Contact: +1 250 598 3366
Room Rate: From $ 325 to $ 795

SHANGHAI
Pudong Shangri-la
With memorable views of the Bund and the Huangpu River, the award-winning Pudong Shangri-La, Shanghai is the preeminent luxury hotel in Shanghai, offering warm and attentive Shangri-La service and world-class dining. Comprising two towers – River Wing and Grand Tower – the hotel showcases spacious, well-appointed rooms and suites with views overlooking the historical Bund, the mighty Huangpu River, as well as that of the futuristic Pudong financial district cityscape. The hotel has two of the city’s largest Ballrooms, CHI, The Spa, two Health Clubs, two swimming pools and a floodlit outdoor tennis court.
When to go: From March to May during the spring season when the city is filled with fragrant flowers and singing birds.
Room to book: Lujiazui Suite which offers guest spectacular views of Pudong.
Contact: + (86 21) 6882 8888
Room Rate: From RMB 1,750 to RMB 4,800

The Peninsula
Situated on the Bund and just a short taxi ride from the financial district of Pudong, The Peninsula Shanghai enjoys the city’s prime business location. The guestrooms and suites represent the return of classic luxury to Shanghai. The city’s most spacious, they have it all, from Art Deco elegance to breathtaking Huangpu River and skyline views, plus the newest Peninsula room technology. The restaurants and bars of The Peninsula Shanghai redefine the standards of excellence and service in the style capital of Asia. The Peninsula Spa by ESPA brings a fresh new approach to Shanghai, with neo-classical décor in French navy and ivory tones, to complement the warmth of dark wood floors.
When to go: From March to May during the spring season when the city is filled with fragrant flowers and singing birds.
Room to book: The Palace Suite is Shanghai’s only all-weather venue with an ultimate breathtaking Bund and skyline backdrop.
Contact: +(86 21) 2327 2888
Room Rate: From RMB 1,800 to RMB 16,500

The Waterhouse at South Bund
It is an energetically conceived and executed boutique hotel with a capacity to surprise. Located on the banks of the Huangpu River the hotel features spectacular views of the Pudong skyline in the distance. Lying in the vicinity of the 2010 World Expo (Puxi) site, the hotel provides with cutting-edge design and one-of-a-kind experience. One can dine at Table Nº1, a destination restaurant serving world- influenced modern European cuisine or The Roof, a rooftop terrace bar or the The Lobby Bar.
When to go: From March to May during the spring season when the city is filled with fragrant flowers and singing birds.
Room to book:River suites are the biggest suites with a view of Huangpu River.
Contact: + (86 21) 6080 2988
Room Rate: From CNY 1,350 to CNY 1,600

88 Xintiandi
Perfectly positioned in the heart of Shanghai’s lively Xintiandi community, 88 Xintiandi is at the centre of style. The hotel has spacious rooms and suites and one can enjoy understated luxury and engaging pleasures, including the full-service Club Lounge and state-of-the-art gym. The guests can also access the spa and indoor pool within the adjacent The Langham Xintiandi. The fitness studio, state-of-the-art equipment keep pulses racing, muscles working and calories burning. Relaxed yet refined, the Club Lounge serves daily breakfasts, evening cocktails as well as complimentary drinks and canapés.
When to go: From March to May during the spring season when the city is filled with fragrant flowers and singing birds.
Room to book: Lakeview Two-Bedroom Suite, where the guests are greeted by stunning views over the nearby Taipingqiao Lake and public park.
Contact: +(86 21) 5383 8833;
Room Rate: From CNY 1,500 to CNY 5,000

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