May Vacation Ideas

Visitors can pamper themselves in the natural beauty that is Maldives: white sandy beaches, a turquoise lagoon, and a spectacular natural landscape. Dusit Thani Maldives comprises beach and over-water villas and residencies that are the epitome of contemporary Thai design and traditional Maldivian architecture.

Visitors can relish in the stunning magnificence that surrounds them in this private paradise filled with graceful hospitality, luxurious settings, and delicious concoctions sure to satisfy any palette. Guests are encouraged to take a dip in one of the largest infinity pools found in Maldives, dive or snorkel on the azure beaches, or indulge in a spa treatment in one of their “treetop treatment pods.”

Hanifaru Bay, Dusit Thani Maldives, +960-660-8888

Once housing low-income housing and a strip club called Jilly’s, today this beautiful Romanesque revival-style building in the Riverside neighborhood in Toronto is home to the upscale Broadview Hotel. Built in 1893, this gorgeous, red brick, multi-storied building has been fully renovated to host an elegant, modern 58-room boutique hotel that has retained many original details while standing firmly in the 21st century with luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, several restaurants, and a wonderful outdoor terrace overlooking the Don River and the city skyline. The rooms are spacious and airy, with original artwork, luxurious Italian linens, and all modern amenities such as smart TVs, free Wi-Fi, and coffeemakers. Some have balconies, terraces, and sofa beds. The hotel is only a few minutes from a tram stop with access to the city center and the Art Gallery of Ontario.

106 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON M4M 1G9, Canada, Tel. +1 416-362-8439

The Mandala Hotel is located on the junction between former East and West Berlin and offers a contemporary and stylish base from which to explore one of Europe’s biggest cities. The hotel boasts 158 elegantly-decorated studios and suites that feature modern furnishings, ample living areas, kitchenettes and expansive windows with spectacular vistas. Modern facilities include flat-screen televisions with satellite channels, air-conditioning, and high-speed DSL Internet access.

Savor award-winning cuisine at the hotel’s QIU, Restaurant & Bar, where the resident chef will take you on an unforgettable culinary journey as you dine in style overlooking the famous Potsdamer Platz. Spend the day being pampered at the exclusive ONO Spa where a host of professional therapists will take you on a sensory journey with a range of exotic treatments in private spa suites. Try the innovative Iyashi Dome for the ultimate in detoxing, firming, and muscle relaxation.

Inspired by the Mediterranean, the Ocean Beach Hotel features a peaceful courtyard area with palm trees and plenty of seating. The rooms are basic but comfortable, and all come equipped with cable TV, air conditioning, mini-fridges, and microwaves. Some also offer private balconies with stunning views of the ocean, full kitchens, or separate sitting areas. The beach is located right in front of the hotel, and plenty of excellent restaurants and cafes can be found within easy walking distance. On-site parking is offered free of charge, and SeaWorld is only a 5-minute drive away.

5080 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107, Phone: 619-223-7191

Tucked away in the heart of Kennebunkport in Maine, the Captain Lord Mansion is a romantic bed and breakfast escape that will leave lasting memories. Beautifully appointed rooms and suites are decorated in rich ornate furnishings with four-poster beds, plush linens, comfortable living spaces and lovely en-suite bathrooms with indulgent bathtubs, large showers and deluxe bath products.

Sumptuous homemade country-style breakfast is served in the morning, where freshly brewed coffee accompanies organically farmed eggs, steaming pancakes with Maine maple syrup, and freshly squeezed orange juice. After breakfast, unwind with an indulgent spa experience in the comfort of your room as you relax in absolute tranquility. Overlooking the meandering Kennebunkport River, the Captain Lord Mansion is situated just three short blocks away from Dock Square, and is surrounded by a wonderful array of 17th and 18th century Colonial and Federal period homes.

Tucked away in the sleepy hamlet of Faralya on Turkey's magnificent Turquoise Coast, Mandarin & Mango Boutique Hotel (formerly Villa Mandarin) is a luxurious boutique hotel with breathtaking views that promises a tranquil and intimate retreat. Stylishly designed to create a comfortable and elegant hideaway for discerning guests who value high standards and a lavish touch, eight beautifully appointed guest suites are havens of luxury. Traditional charm meets contemporary-cool in beautiful hand-carved furnishings and chic décor, while modern amenities, such as air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and mini fridges offer creature comforts.

Wide balconies and private whirlpools are ideal for relaxing and soaking up the views. Unwind in style as the villa’s personal chef takes care of your every culinary need with delicious buffet breakfasts, lavish lunches, and sublime five-course meals in the evenings, where you can dine under the stars on warm, balmy nights by the soft glow of candlelight. A stunning swimming pool and outdoor whirlpool let you savor lazy days in the Turkish sun, while a range of massage treatments and complimentary therapies will keep you relaxed and stress-free.

Offering 44 rooms and 8 suites on the Bay of Cascais in Portugal, Hotel Albatroz is located 30 minutes from Lisbon city center. The stylish getaway has romantic rooms with spectacular ocean views, a swimming pool, terrace and a gourmet restaurant which specializes in fish and seafood dishes.

Relax on the beautiful Conceicao beach to quiet the mind, surrounded by the ocean and sounds of seagulls. Choose from rooms and suites located in several buildings around the property. Ask for a view of the water and a private terrace where you can have breakfast looking out to sea.

Visit this country estate in the village of Great Milton near Oxford, England, for a weekend of exceptional food and beautiful surroundings. Take a cooking class at Le Manoir Ecole de Cuisine, which gets our vote as one of the best cooking vacations, and learn many healthy cooking techniques that you can use at home.

Food will be the highlight of your stay - contemporary French cuisine prepared with organic ingredients, many from the hotel's own garden. which grows over 150 different types of vegetable and herbs. The hotel was created by Raymond Blanc, known as one of the top chefs in the world and a supporter of organic food. The hotel and its restaurant, created following Raymond Blanc's personal vision, have received numerous awards, including two Michelin Stars and the Relais and Chateaux Purple Shield.

Le Manoir has 32 rooms and suites, individually decorated to reflect different themes, such as Oriental, contemporary and classical. Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons is situated on 27 landscaped acres with a beautiful Japanese tea garden, water gardens and a fragrant herb garden which supplies organic herbs to the restaurant.

L' Ecole de Cuisine, established in 1991, offers a series of one, two and four day courses. Whether you are a complete novice or an expert cook, the cooking school offers an informal environment that will inspire the chef inside you. If you are planning a family vacation, the hotel offers cooking classes for kids during certain times of the year - an excellent opportunity to introduce your family to healthy cooking.

Overlooking the beautiful Pacific Beach Park, Ocean Park Inn offers convenient access to the Pacific Beach Boardwalk as well as to a number of the area's best shops and restaurants. Both rooms and suites are available; all come with mini-fridges, patios, and flat-screen TVs, and suites also include kitchenettes and comfortable living areas. Free Wi-Fi is available all throughout the property, and a complimentary breakfast buffet is available every morning. The hotel provides direct access to the beach, and guests are also welcome to use the on-site pool and hot tub. Beach towels can be borrowed free of charge.

710 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, Phone: 858-483-5858

The Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa, Crete offers a variety of gastronomical and cultural experiences, crystal waters, and beautiful views. Accommodations at the luxury resort consist of fifty-two guest suites, as well as four villas with private pools. All of these are designed for guests to have a private space to relax with spacious room, exquisite decor, and understated luxury. Guests also are provided with exclusive services, such as private menus and private seating at breakfast. Five restaurants throughout the property offers an array of Mediterranean cuisine, including traditional Greek dishes, as well as some international twists.

Plaka, Schisma Elountas 720 53, Greece