Welcome to Destination Explorer
My favourite adresses &
UNIQUE ACCOMMODATIONS
For more than 25 years, I have been traveling the world in search of the most exceptional and affordable luxury accommodations. My discoveries range from chic boutique hotels to cozy bungalows with breathtaking views over stunning local jungles, rice fields and mountains. What our favorite spots have in common is that they each offer something special. Here, you truly get value for your money, whether it's the unique location, the genuine hospitality, or the unforgettable atmosphere that prevails.
Every accommodation I recommend is carefully selected based on my personal experiences. I am constantly on the lookout for those unique places where every detail contributes to an enriching travel experience. From refined apartments in the heart of the city to secluded resorts where you can escape the daily grind, each spot promises a memorable stay.
I invite you to follow me and discover how you can enjoy luxury affordably. Each stay we highlight is more than just a place to sleep; it is an integral part of your travel experience that makes your journey extra special.
Ace Hotel Seattle
Located in the Belltown neighborhood of Seattle, this modern hotel is 750 metres from Pike Place Market and 1.6 km from downtown Seattle. We especially loved the location and also the style of this hotel.
Hotel 1000, LXR Hotels & Resorts, Seattle
Located in downtown Seattle on the corner of First and Madison Street, this 4-star hotel features a full-service spa which offers a number of services such as massages, body treatments, manicures, pedicures, and facials. The Seattle Art Museum is 3 minutes' walk away. Hotel 1000 provides All Water Seafood & Oyster Bar, an on-site seafood restaurant featuring boat-to-table cuisine sourced from the Pacific Northwest.
Newbury Guest House, Boston
This historic guest house is located in Boston's Back Bay district. Newbury Guest House consists of 3 connected town houses. A designer boutique store is available on site and the Newbury Guest House features our on-site bakery, Patisserie On Newbury.
Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguassu Falls
Facing the spectacular Iguaçu Falls inside Iguaçu National Park, the 5-star Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguassu Falls allows guests to enjoy a cocktail by the swimming pool or play a game of tennis on the provided court. This was one of the most impressive hotels we ever stayed at and the location inside the NP is incredible.
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp
This 5-star hotel in Antwerp is situated on one of the best locations in Antwerp. The 108 rooms are integrated in a 15th-century historical monastery complex with 4 gastronomic restaurants with Michelin star awarded chefs. Spa and wellness facilities including a spa centre, a hot tub and a sauna are at guests' disposal during their stay at the accommodation. Guests at Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp will be able to enjoy activities in and around Antwerp, like cycling.
Duke's Palace Brugge
This 5 star superior hotel is located in a unique 15th-century former ducal palace in Bruges and only 280 metres from the Markt. Dukes' Palace Brugge includes classically elegant décor and luxurious 5-star facilities. The rooms in the main part of the castle include high ceilings and original features. All of the rooms at Dukes' Palace Brugge have air conditioning, a minibar, work desk and a spacious marble bathroom. During the summer guests can enjoy an afternoon tea and coffee out on the terrace, overlooking the extensive garden. Bar Dukes serves drinks and tapas in a casual, comfortable lounge setting. Restaurant Dukes offers refined Belgian cuisine which showcases seasonal ingredients.
Radisson Collection Grand Place Brussels
In this beautiful completely newly-renovated hotel you will get the celebrity treatment with world-class service. The location is perfect in the heart of Brussels. The spacious rooms feature lush bedding, soft fabrics and refined colour palettes, creating a sense of serenity and well-being. Abundant in-room amenities are included and rooms offer views over the hotel’s grand atrium, city streets or the quiet neighbouring courtyard.
Hotel Cosmopolite, Nieuwpoort
Hotel Cosmopolite offers a luxury experience on the Belgian coast. The location at just 5 minutes from the beach is a big plus. There are many luxurious and spacious rooms to choose from. It's also a dog friendly hotel, you can bring your fluffy friend and he will be welcomed with a treat. The extensive breakfast is amazing, from fresh yoghurt to homemade honey, and eggs fried on site. Go to the 6th floor to enjoy the fantastic wellness area. Founded in 1922, Hotel Cosmopolite continues to redefine hospitality and ensures an unforgettable stay!
Casa Pizarro Hotel Boutique, Getsemani, Cartagena
This boutique hotel is situated at an excellent location in the colorful part of Getsemani, Cartagena. The hotel offers a very welcoming patio pool, a rooftop terrace with a bar and breakfast options.
Sie Casa Hotel, Villa de Lleyva
This is one of the most charming hotels you will find in this beautiful city. The location is perfect and such a warm welcome. Spacious rooms and bathrooms and beautifully decorated. Don't forget to visit the rooftop terrace for an excellent view on the city and the surrounding mountains.
Senda Koguiwa, Tayrona
Located five minutes away from Tayrona Park main entrance. Senda Koguiwa provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking and an outdoor swimming pool. Surrounded by nature, guests will be able to enjoy a lake and share their time with the ducks.
Bosko, Guatapé
Set in Guatapé, 2 km from Piedra del Peñol, Bosko offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a terrace. Each accommodation at the 5-star hotel has mountain views, and guests can enjoy access to a hot tub and a hot spring bath. It's a wonderful glamping place. The hotel offers free tuktuk rides to the city center of Guatapé.
Masaya Casas Viejas, Minca
This amazing hotel is situated in the middle of the mountains around Minca. Close to the Finca La Victoria. You have beautiful views on the surrounding nature, an infinity pool and the hotel organizes different tours to attractions closeby.
La Cabana Ecohotel, Valle del Cocora, Salento
This hotel was originally a farm and they still produce their own products. The rooms are very nice decorated and the breakfast is delicious with all the home made products. Coffee is free all day. The owners organise a bbq from time to time providing you with some excellent lomo. The jeeps taking you to Cocora Valley are passing by this hotel.
Patio del Mundo, Medellin
Patio del Mundo is a Hotel Boutique of 13 Rooms divided into two Properties. Situated 500 metres from Provenza area in El Poblado in Medellín. Every room is decorated with local artcraft. Every room features a private separate bathroom with toiletries and minibar. A private terrace or balcony are featured in certain rooms. All rooms are soundproofed. Superior Deluxe rooms include a hot tub or a Patio private terrace and air conditionning.
In this place you feel at home as it's small. It also has a very beautiful garden, were you can watch the hummingbirds eating.
Hotel York Luxury Suites Medellin
Here you get the celebrity treatment with world-class service. The hotel is very modern equipped and has beautifully decorated, spacious rooms. The hotel offers a rooftop swimmingpool with a bar were you have excellent views on the city of Medellin.
Selina La Candelaria, Bogotà
This hotel is beautifully decorated and offers a bar, lounge space and dining room. The location is perfect in the middle of the historical center La Candelaria. The hotel also offers tours and I would highly recommend taking the fruit tour.
HAB Hotel Bogotà
This hotel is located in the district of Chapinero. At an excellent location. The hotel has created an atmosphere to feel immediatly at home. Nicely decorated and a very good breakfast.
Lordos Beach hotel, Larnaka
Located at a private beach near the Bay of Larnaca. There are cozy rooms with sea view and a balcony. All rooms have airco and a small fridge. Some rooms have shared hot tub. At the beach you can practice a lot of watersport activities like diving, surfing and waterski. There are multiple swimming pools on site. Both restaurants offer Cyprotic, mediterranean and international food.
Petit Palais Platres Boutique Hotel
This boutique hotel has a nice garden and terrace. Some rooms have a balcony. It's possible to rent bikes and there's also a sauna on site. The restaurant offers delicious food.
Constantinou Bros Athena Beach Hotel
Athena Beach hotel is a beachfront hotel in Paphos, close to the harbour, archeological sites & nightlife. The hotel has 3 outdoor swimming pools and one indoor. There are rooms with large balconies offering sea view or garden view. There's also a spa & wellness on site.
Nimb Hotel Copenhagen
Located in Copenhagen’s famous Tivoli Gardens, this stylish boutique hotel is housed in an impressive Moorish-style building. Elegant rooms with antique furniture and four-poster beds are featured in all Nimb Hotel rooms. Each bathroom has a double sink and shower. Luxury toiletries and guest bathrobes are also included. Selected rooms feature a fireplace and a free-standing bathtub.
Hotel Alexandra
This stylish hotel has a very central location. All rooms are designed with vintage furniture and are a tribute to Danish design.
Steigenberger Pyramids, Caïro
This beautiful hotel is very close to the pyramids of Giza. We could see them at night enlighted from our balcony. The rooms are spacious and luxurious and have a large bathroom.The hotel has a great outdoor pool and a breakfast with a lot of options to choose from. This hotel is the best for visiting Giza and Saqqara pyramids.
Grand Nile Tower Hotel, Caïro
This big hotel is just next to the Nile river, close to the old city center of Caïro. It offers big rooms and suites with beautiful views on the Nile, at night you can see the enlighted pyramids of Giza. On the rooftop you will find a big pool. Nice to watch the sunset from here. The hotel doesn't offer alcoholical beverages. There are several restaurants available, we went to the rooftop Revolving restaurant. While having a great dinner the restaurant turns around slowly so that you can enjoy the view over Caïro.
Nile Jewel cruise
This cruise boat has 5 stars, but only for Egyptian standards. The room was clean and had a separate bathroom but wasn't very fancy. The restaurant is good and drinks are cheap. Try out the local Egyptian wine they offer here. There's also a bar and a big terrace with a small swimming pool. Everyone is very friendly.
Shangri-La
Centrally located along Sheikh Zayed Road, 10 minutes’ drive from Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, this 5-star Asian themed hotel boasts two swimming pools, an extensive health club and spa, free WiFi and eight restaurants and bars. The hospitality at this hotel is truly outstanding. An amazing experience!
Wilderness Hotel Inari & Igloos
This amazing hotel in Lapland is situated right by the shores of Lake Inari. Booking an aurora cabin is an amazing experience when observing the northern lights. The hotel has a great restaurants and offers many activities.
25hours Hotel Terminus Nord, Paris
This hotel is ideally situated very close to the Gare du Nord train station. The rooms are all decorated in a vintage style and offer nice views on the beautiful city of Paris.
Les Maisons de Lea, a member of Radisson Individuals, Honfleur
The location of this charming hotel in the old center of Honfleur is amazing. The hotel has a unique style and beautiful furnished rooms. Note that there's no elevator.
La Maison de Lucie, Honfleur
This small beautiful boutique hotel is a true hidden Gem in Honfleur. It's an excellent place to stay for couples enjoying the beautiful patio and rooms of this elegant 18th century hotel.
Joie de Vivre, Doulevant le Chateau, Champagne
This amazing Airbnb offers 5 rooms and a gite. The hosts are amazing and make you feel at home in an instant. The room are big and spacious and all have a private bathroom. During breakfast and optional dinner you can enjoy all homemade delicacies.
Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa, Champillon, Champagne
This beautiful hotel in the heart of the champagne vineyards of Epernay is a true treasure. Excellent views from the rooftop terrace, the pool and all the rooms. Enjoy the gourmet restaurant Le Royal or Bistro Le Bellevue.
Hotel Louis C. Jacob, Hamburg
This hotel is located a bit out of the city center but has excellent views on the river Elbe. The rooms are beautifully decorated and have a beautiful walk-in wardrobe, wooden floorings and excellent beds.
The Fontenay, Designhotel of 2023 & 2024
The Fontenay, Designhotel des Jahres 2023 und 2024 is a 5-star hotel situated on the shore of the Alster Lake in Hamburg, within walking distance of the famous shopping area at Jungfernstieg. The city resort offers a 1,000 m² rooftop spa with an indoor/outdoor pool.
The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino
Inspired by old Messinian mansions, the resort's villa clusters use natural stone and local design elements, in perfect harmony with the virgin sandy beach and pristine hillside landscape. Decorated with contemporary furniture, light wood and muted tones of sea and sand, each of Costa Navarino’s guest rooms features a private balcony overlooking the resorts’ olive groves and landscaped gardens.
Grecotel Olympia Oasis & Aqua Park
This beautiful resort has both accommodation for couples relaxing in luxury a hotel for families. The big aqua park with all the slides is a paradise for children. You can also choose to stay at Mandola Rosa (the beautiful boutique hotel at this location or at La Riviera, the beach luxe resort.
Zante Maris Suites, Zakynthos
A 13-minute walk from Tsilivi Beach, Zante Maris Suites - Adults Only is set in Tsilivi and offers accommodation with free WiFi. Boasting an outdoor swimming pool, this property is situated near attractions such as Tsilivi Water Park. Beautiful hotel lying up a hill offering a fabulous poolbar and restaurant.
Aqua Blu Boutique Hotel & Spa, Kos
This adults only hotel is part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. It's only 1,5 km from Kos main town. The breakfast is outstanding and the dinner in the restaurant was delicious. You can enjoy both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool and a wellness centre. Its contemporary style units enjoy Aegean Sea or pool views.
Anantara New York Palace Budapest
Anantara New York Palace Budapest - A Leading Hotel of the World occupies an elegant 19th-century building in the heart of Budapest, close to the Opera and Andrássy Boulevard. Staying in this beautiful hotel feels like going back in time but having all modern facilities!
Mazayen Rum Camp
Unique stay in the Wadi Rum desert. You can choose between luxury glamping tents for 2 or standard luxury tents. You have beautiful views of the mountains in the desert. Breakfast consists of a rich buffet.
The Old Village Hotel & Resort, Petra
Set in Wadi Musa, in a building dating from the 1800s, The Old Village Hotel & Resort offers 5-star accommodation with an indoor pool. The property offers a free transportation from the hotel to Petra and back.
Crowne Plaza Jordan - Dead Sea Resort & Spa
Featuring a promenade along the Dead Sea, Crowne Plaza Jordan Dead Sea Resort & Spa boasts an outdoor pool, a gym and a restaurant. With the elevator you can access the beach and take a bath in the dead sea. The wellness in this resort is amazing.
Dormy Inn, Nagano
Daiwa Roynet Hotel, Kanazawa
Hakujukan, Eiheiji
Hotel Kanra Kyoto, Kyoto
Miyako City Osaka Hommachi, Osaka
Grand Prince Hotel, Hiroshima
Château d'Urspelt, Urspelt (Clervaux)
This beautiful hotel, located in a renovated castle of more than 300 years old is a true must stay. The beautiful and spacious rooms with private bathroom are very luxurious, breakfast and dinner are both excellent. You have several cosy corners: the library, the underground bar, the outdoor swimming pool,.. and the exclusive Spa. The hotel is also a member of Bed & Bike, so you can rent bikes or bring your own and store it safely and discover the beautiful environment by bike.
Le Clervaux Boutique Hotel
Boutique Hotel le Clervaux is located in the middle of the town and has plenty of free parking facilities nearby. Very nice and luxurious rooms, you can use the wellness facilities of the nearby hotel Koener, here you also take breakfast.
Légère-Hotel Luxembourg
Légère Hotel is located just outside the city of Luxembourg. There is a shuttle service to take you to the city centre or the airport. The hotel has plenty of rooms and has an extensive choice in the restaurant, where you can also enjoy breakfast and a buffet in the afternoon. The restaurant also has a terrace.
Melia Hotel Luxembourg
Melia is a nice hotel in between the old city center and the modern part of Luxembourg, both sides are walkable from the hotel. The rooms are spacious and have a private bathroom. Breakfast is served in the restaurant and has a good variety of food.
Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection
Very nice hotel at a walking distance of KLCC and KL Tower. The metro station is at a 5 minute walk.
Very nice and spacious rooms, friendly and good service. The rooftop bar with infinity pool is a very welcome advantage after spending a day in the heat of Kuala Lumpur.
Tanjong Jara Resort, Kuala Dungun
This beautiful resort with all luxury facilities lies in Kuala Dungun at the East coast of Malaysia. From this resort you can easily access Tenggol island a beautiful diving location not discovered by the crowd yet! Activities we loved: following a Malaysian cooking class and the bicycle tour among the locals.
Sofitel Legend the Grand Amsterdam
Enjoy this stylish hotel, located in an old historical building that was formerly a monastery and the town hall. Spacious rooms, a delicious restaurant, a bar and a great spa with indoor swimming pool are all part of this experience. The location in the heart of Amsterdam is perfect to start exploring
Zoku Amsterdam
Zoku Amsterdam is a trendy hotel just outside the city center but very close to public transport. Enjoy the beautiful and spacious rooms. This hotel is also a co-working spot and is popular because of it's amazing community efforts. Enjoy the Living Kitchen and the wonderful terraces on the rooftop floor.
Yotel Amsterdam
YOTEL Amsterdam, located at Asterweg 33 in Amsterdam North, combines innovative technology with modern design. The hotel offers compact, efficient rooms, known as “cabins,” which are equipped with amenities such as adjustable SmartBeds, rain showers and super fast Wi-Fi. The hotel is easily accessible via a free ferry from nearby Buiksloterweg to Amsterdam Central Station, followed by a short walk or bike ride.
Inntel Hotel Zaandam
Inntel Hotel in Zaandam is very nicely integrated into the style of the region. The interior is also worthwhile. You will find something of the history of this region in every room. Lovely rooms with bathroom, swimming pool and gym available. The breakfast is of excellent quality and very diverse.
Hotel De Wolfsberg, Groesbeek
Hotel De Wolfsberg is located in Groesbeek near Nijmegen. Around the hotel there are plenty of woods where you can go for lovely walks. The rooms exude an old grandeur and the restaurant here is also a must, in the morning you will enjoy a delicious breakfast.
Bilderberg Hotel, Oosterbeek
Hotel Bilderberg is located close to the Veluwe, where you can take lovely walks and cycling tours. You can start as soon as you walk outside the hotel. Lovely and spacious rooms, delicious breakfast and the hotel also offers regular packages.
Logement Petit Beijers, Utrecht
Logement Petit Beijers is a lovely address in the middle of Utrecht's old city centre. The rooms are spacious and pretty but beware there are steep stairs and no lift. You take breakfast downstairs in a particularly cosy room.
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef
On the Maldives it's nice to choose a hotel on an atol where you need to fly to by seaplane. This hotel resort was fabulous. We stayed in a water villa with pool and direct access to the pristine waters. The resort offers diving trips, swimming with whale sharks, snorkeling,... There are 3 restaurants to choose from and they are all delicious.
Le Muuch Hotel Boutique, Valladolid
Located in Valladolid, 45 km from Chichen Itza, Le Muuch Hotel Boutique provides accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a terrace. An à la carte breakfast is available daily at the accommodation. At Le Muuch Hotel Boutique you will find a restaurant serving Mexican, Pizza and Seafood cuisine. Vegetarian, dairy-free and vegan options can also be requested. This hotel is a true hidden gem in Valladolid. The decoration is amazing!
Wakax Hacienda - Cenote & Boutique Hotel Tulum
Situated in Tulum, 9.1 km from Tulum Archeological Site, Wakax Hacienda - Cenote & Boutique Hotel features accommodation with free bikes, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a garden. Guests at Wakax Hacienda - Cenote & Boutique Hotel will be able to enjoy activities in and around Tulum, like hiking, snorkelling and canoeing.
Only YOU Hotel Valencia
This hotel has an excellent location and an amazing service. Very spacious and luxurious rooms, an excellent breakfast is served every day. A dream to stay in the heart of Valencia!
Club Can Bossa, Ibiza
Club Can Bossa is close to the airport and Playa d'en Bossa, it offers an outdoor pool and most rooms have a private balcony.
Dream of Zanzibar, Uroa
This beautiful hotel, located at the East coast of Zanzibar is a brand new 5 star luxury hotel. It features beautiful and spacious rooms, with sea view or garden view. The restaurant offers a very good breakfast and delicious food for lunch and dinner, you can opt for the all inclusive formula as there are not much places around for food. The buffets have a variety of different dishes and there's also a corner with Swahili food, a must try! Direct access to the beach and a great swimming pool to relax.
Africa Safari Rift Valley
This brand new lodge near Lake Manyara is very comfortable and offers lodges with an outdoor and indoor shower, terrace with beautiful garden views and comfortable beds. There's also an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant where you can enjoy a traditional diner and buffet breakfast.
Africa Safari South Serengeti Ndutu Ngorongoro
This lodge is located just outside Serengeti National Park. Staying at the luxury tent with a great terrace overlooking the outskirts of the Serengeti, comfortable beds, a provate bathroom and deposit box. Wildlife encounters are very common here.You can have dinner and breakfast in the on-site traditional restaurant, which serves international cuisine but also vegetarian, vegan and dairy-free options.
Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma
This lodge is located within the Serengeti, you have the chance to see some wildlife from your doorstep. By going to the restaurant a local Masai will guide you. All comfort is found inside the lodge, like comfortable beds and hot shower facilities. In the restaurant you can enjoy an African breakfast.
Africa Safari Karatu
This beautiful lodge is located in Karatu, about 1 hour drive from the entrance of Ngorongoro National Park. You can find a very nice outdoor pool, a beautiful traditional restaurant and very comfortable lodges with an amazing mountain view from the private terrace.
Grand Mercure Khao Lak in Bangsak
Facing the beachfront, Grand Mercure Khao Lak Bangsak offers 5-star accommodation in Khao Lak and has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and garden. Beautiful spacious rooms and an excellent breakfast.
River Kwai Jungle Rafts
River Kwai Jungle rafts is a very unique accommodation near Kanchanaburi. Staying on a floating hotel without electricity is a unique experience. There is no airco and no place to load your phone. Perfect for disconnecting and enjoying the beautiful nature that surrounds you.
The Tree House Hideaway, Chiang Mai
When visiting Chiang Mai and Chiang Dao, this place was one of the most unique stays we ever had. You literally sleep in the middle of the jungle with an amazing view. You can start a Jungle Trek from this location and go Zip-Lining or visit the waterfalls and caves.
Pai Village Boutique Resort
Pai is such alaid back village. Situated along the banks of Pai River, within tropical gardens, Pai Village Boutique Resort provides rustic wooden cottages. It provides massage services and is only a 5-minute walk from Wat Pa Kham Temple. Traditional Thai massages await guests at The Mamalon Massage. To complement the experience, relax at The Baan Pai’s landscaped Koi pond garden. Featuring private balconies, the Thai-style cottages present beautiful views of the mountain or garden.