The Hotel List: Part One

I was asked recently how we pick and prioritize our travel destinations, and my answer was: from a very, very long wishlist. I have a travel list that is sadly probably inexhaustible and am adding to it all the time. There are so many destinations I’d like to go in the world, and as a hotel fan, so many places I would like to stay. Here I’d like to share some of the top hotels on my “list” – there’s a lot, so look for more parts in the future!

1. The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, India

Can you believe that places like this exist in the world…and that you can actually stay in them? India has been on my list for years as a country that I really need to explore properly…I think I would need at least two weeks if not more. There are so many places and experiences I’d like to try…and a stay at Udaivilas is at the top of my list. It looks almost unreal. Just look at those beautiful lakes..and the amazing architecture.

2. Le Sirenuse, Positano, Italy

Taking a month off and spending it driving all around Italy is on my ultimate wish list. And any trip to the Amalfi Coast would definitely require a stop at Le Sirenuse. Simply breathtaking inside and out. This is one of those hotels that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a European Woody Allen movie.

3. Amangiri, Grand Canyon, Utah

Unlike Le Sirenuse, which borders an ocean, there’s no water to be found around the perimeter of Amangiri (except for the man made pool of course), as it’s in the middle of the Utah desert. The location is stunning and uniquely American. I really have no excuse for not having made it here yet since it’s quite close to us – except for that getting to Amangiri isn’t so easy (either regional flights and/or a long drive from Las Vegas, please don’t write and suggest a private plane..that’s just gloating).

4. ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden 

Out of the four on my list today, ICEHOTEL is probably the one I will most easily be able to get Mr. Feather on board with, since there’s obviously some skiing nearby. How cool does this place look? You can go dog sledding…and gaze at the Northern Lights. Give me some furs and I can live out my fleeting kind-of-dream of being Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch. Not sure if I would want to stay more than a few nights, though.

What are some of the all time top hotels and resorts on your “dream list”? And if you enjoyed this list, please let me know – I have many more I can share in the future!