New hotels to watch in 2010

I will be upfront in saying this list of hotels that have recently opened or are yet to open is not an arbitrary list. These are all hotels I would personally love to visit. I think you might agree....

1) Poseidon Undersea Resort in Fiji:
 Fiji is one of my top three favorite places on Earth. (read old post Great Time to be in Fiji from 12/07)This five star hotel built under the water certainly adds a novel touch to my beloved group of islands.

There are three types of suites/villas: One type 40 feet under water... Another is an over-water bungalow... and finally, a beach villa with your own slice of private beach on Poseidon Mystery Island. You can even combine a few nights in each place...it you don't mind packing and repacking.

Activities include the usual suspects - scuba, water sports, spa treatments...but how about your own Triton sub to explore the depths of the ocean and all the marine life? But you pay for these perks: $1500 a night for a 500 sq foot suite.

Get me to Fiji ..NOW. www.poseidonresorts.com

2)The Viceroy Hotel in Anguilla

In the British West Indies, perched on 35 secluded acres right on the beach, this is the Caribbean's hottest new gig. Beautiful, tranquil, romantic - and designed by one of my favorite style mavens, Kelly Wearstler. The bathroom below is signature Kelly with the rich textures and touches of gold.

There are 166 rooms, ranging from suites to penthouse suites to villas. There are even 2-3 bedroom suites for families - and even though the resort also offers family activities, this is one place I wouldn't bring the kids. Too much adult fun and relaxation.

Anguilla is 20 miles from St. Barth's...www.viceroyanguilla.com

3) Il Salviatino in Fiesole, Italy.


Especially fond of everything Italian...this location is ideal for exploring Florence. Not walking distance, but close enough to go daily..and removed enough for some peace and quiet. I once interviewed Frances Mayes, the author of "Under the Tuscan Sun," and she recommended staying in Fiesole before one of my trips to Florence. From the hotel you can see the Duomo nearby.

The rooms are handsomely done.


www.salviatino.com


4) The Alila Villas Hadahaa Resort on a pristine atoll in the Maldives.

I am salivating just looking at the gorgeous scenery and incredible setting for the villas - either over the water or right on the beach. There are only 50 villas, and some come with a private pool.

Really, I don't know what else I can say..the photos speak volumes.





www.alilahotels.com/hadahaa

I am dusting off my passport now. Happy New Year and safe travels!

Comments

[John]

Great post...want to visit all those sights