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India.com
28-05-2025
- India.com
The Most Beautiful Hill Stations Near Kolkata For a Quick Escape During Weekends
The cultural center of India known as Kolkata exists as a place that showcases vibrant festivals and holds rich heritage while offering a fast-paced urban way of life. The hot and moist conditions of the city sometimes push residents toward fast nature-based escapes from the area. Good luck awaits at multiple charming hill stations which can be reached by car or train a short distance from Kolkata. The destinations provide visitors with stunning views combined with peaceful surroundings together with relief from city life. Visitors seeking restoration will find the following list of stunning hill stations that reside near Kolkata. 1. Darjeeling: The Queen of Hills Darjeeling stands as India's most popular hill station which exists at a 520-kilometer distance from Kolkata. The 'Queen of Hills' title accurately describes this place because visitors can see both Himalayan snow peaks and tea plantation fields combined with heritage buildings. Travelers can experience the UNESCO-protected Darjeeling Himalayan Railway ('Toy Train') to enjoy a traditional mountain railway journey. Visitors should experience dawn at Tiger Hill since it offers breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga which ranks as the world's third-tallest peak. 2. Kalimpong: A Tranquil Retreat Kalimpong rests in the Eastern Himalayas where it occupies a position about 550 kilometers distant from Kolkata. The hill town provides an optimal environment for people looking to escape urban pressures. Zang Dhok Palri Phodang together with Durpin Dara form two of the many monasteries that attract visitors to admire their religious sites and mountainscapes. Tourists interested in nature can discover the Neora Valley National Park which protects both rare plant species and endangered red panda along with their ecosystems. Those who visit Kalimpong can find pleasure in both its flower nursery complexes and traditional handcrafted items available in local markets. 3. Mirik: A Hidden Gem Travelers tend to overlook Mirik although its 550 kilometer distance from Kolkata fails to diminish its status as a hidden gem for tourists. Visitors can experience lake activities such as boating while walking the promenade that surrounds Sumendu Lake in this charming hill station. The setting of Mirik consists of both orange orchards and cardamom plantations which provide visitors with a revitalizing experience. Bokar Gompa presents itself as a quiet Buddhist monastery that visitors must experience during their trip. 4. Gangtok: Gateway to Sikkim The provincial capital status of Sikkim belongs to Gangtok despite its minimal 600 kilometers distance from Kolkata where locals enjoy weekend trips. From its location at 1650 meters Gangtok shows breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga range and vibrant Tibetan culture. You can find the Rumtek Monastery as well as Banjhakri Falls while admiring the beauty of Tsomgo Lake in this region. The adventure lovers can participate in activities like trekking while river rafting and going on yak safaris. 5. Dooars: Nature's Paradise Those who want to unite their affection for hills and wildlife should consider Dooars as their destination. The territory extends across dense forests, rolling hills and tea estate expenses situated 450 kilometers away from Kolkata. Visitors to this location find the Jaldapara National Park with Gorumara National Park as their principal draws because both facilities allow rhino elephant viewings with jeep rides and elephants. Nature enthusiasts find Dooars to be a beautiful place because of its refreshing climate and its lush natural environment. 6. Lava and Loleygaon: Offbeat Escapes Lava and Loleygaon offer distinctive destinations which can be found in proximity to Kolkata. The two locations exist more than 600 kilometers beyond Kolkata inside the unexplored areas of West Bengal. The town of Lava holds a special place thanks to its close position to Neora Valley National Park but what truly distinguishes it is its unmatched views of the Greater Himalayan mountain range. The main attraction of Loleygaon consists of its famous canopy walk and suspension bridge. The locations serve as ideal spots for nature-focused tourists who seek to experience sustainable interaction with the environment. 7. Pelling: A Blend of Adventure and Spirituality Pelling which lies about 600 kilometers west of Kolkata offers visitors the advantage of being near popular landmarks in Sikkim. Tourists visit this location to witness both the Kanchenjunga range as well as Pemayangtse Monastery and Sangachoeling Monastery along with their spiritual significance. The area provides both trekking opportunities towards Khecheopalri Lake and a chance to explore the remains of Rabdentse Palace. Families with solo travelers find the relaxed atmosphere of Pelling to be perfect for either group. Conclusion The mountain destinations surrounding Kolkata serve various purposes because they welcome visitors who wish to experience adventures and nature together with individuals who want peaceful moments. Three destinations in northeastern India offer visitors the chance to experience fresh tea tasting in Darjeeling followed by meditating in Kalimpong's monasteries while sightseeing different views of Gangtok and the Himalayas. Travelers from Kolkata can now access hill stations more conveniently because of their accessibility by road and rail and commercial flights. Travelers should bring luggage to escape city commotion while exploring the peaceful natural surroundings of these magical elevations.


India.com
27-05-2025
- India.com
Exploring The 7 Underrated Hill Stations Close To Indore
With a well known history and culture, Indore is the largest city in Madhya Pradesh and has a lot to offer in its open markets. It is a well established tourist spot in central India, but it has a lot of unrecognized best hill stations which are hidden gems. These hill stations offer you serenity on another level as well as mesmerizing views. In this article we will cover seven of the best hidden hill stations around Indore and their individual stories. 1. Pachmarhi: The Queen of Satpura Pachmarhi is known to be the most famous hill station in the state but it is surrounded with several other famous unexplored hill stations. Also, it is roughly 190 kilometers away from Indore. strap yourself in because we are about to give you reasons aka known facts of why it is termed as a queen. Pachmarhi is enriched with beauty as it has astonishing green forests, majestic and peaceful waterfalls, and caves which date back to ancient times. It is further surrounded by a UNESCO-protected biosphere meaning no exploitation of nature will take place. It has remained a quiet spot for trekking, bird watching, and even for family visits to the Pandav caves and jata shankar temple. The amazing beauty and pleasant weather make it the perfect spot for a weekend trip. 2. Mandu: Blending History with Nature Around 96 km from Indore, Mandu is famous for its rich history as well as for being a scenic hill station. The Vindhya Range is home to Mandu, which has several remnants of mosques, palaces, and Tanks that speak of love and bravery. While in Mandu, one must visit Jahaz Mahal, Rani Roopmati Pavilion, and Baz Bahadur Palace. From Mandu, one can overlook the Narmada Valley while basking in the dense surrounding green forests. The beautiful sunsets and tranquil nature offer a peaceful break from the chaos of the city. 3. Satpura National Park: The Nature Republic Known primarily as a wildlife sanctuary, Satpura National Park is also one of the most underrated hill station getaways located around 200 kilometers from Indore. The park is part of the Satpura Range and it boasts rough terrains, deep gorges to explore, and rich flora and fauna. Visitors have the option to participate in jungle safaris, canoe rides on the Denwa River, and even go hiking. For those in search of some peace and solitude in nature, Satpura is a superb alternative. 4. Omkareshwar: Hills with a Touch of Spirituality Omkareshwar is a sacred region located at a distance of 77 Kilometers from Indore. The town has the shape of 'Om' and is encircled by Narmada river, adding to the spirituality of this temple town. One can also visit Omkareshwar Temple from where you can take a ropeway or trek up to the town to receive an all around view of the river and the valleys. Relaxation lovers appreciate the calmness, providing a refreshing break from their city life. 5. Choral Dam: Scenic Photography Spot Like most places in Indore, this is also about 45 kilometers from the city. Choral Dam is a dam and not strictly a hill station but offers a hill station experience. The dam can be best used for picnics, boating, and capturing pictures or memories. The place transformed into a nature lover's green paradise can be enjoyed during the monsoon season and there is plenty of greenery for adventure lovers also. 6. Tincha Waterfall: Nature's Secret Gem Positioned roughly 50 kilometers from Indore, Tincha Waterfall is hidden in the Aravalli Hills, which makes it another unexplored site that is worth visiting. Fans of waterfalls would love this waterfall's beauty during every season, but monsoons are the cherry on top when the waterfall turns captivating. The dense forest and rocky areas at Tincha provide good chances for short nature walks and escaping into the wild. For those who are looking for a one-day trip from Indore, these spots are a fantastic choice. 7. Kanha Tiger Reserve: Beyond Wildlife Tourism While many people are well aware about the Kanha Tiger Reserve because of its large number of tigers, the reserve also has breathtaking rolling hills along with majestic meadows that make it a great spot to visit. It is located roughly 280 kilometers from Indore, which is the closest city. Kanha is located in the Maikal Range of the Satpuras. The varying ecosystems like bamboo groves, grasslands, and steep hill forests are famous in the reserve. These features make the reserve a great place for ecotourism. People can enjoy the beauty in the landscape and the animals like deers, wild boar and many birds from the jeep on the safari tour. Why Choose These Underrated Hill Stations? Why not visit hill stations close to Indore instead of well-known places like Shimla, Manali, or Ooty? These underrated spots are as exquisite as these famous destinations, but these lesser-known hill stations face no tourist congestion. These places are perfect for those who admire history, the mountains, or just want to escape to somewhere quiet. Furthermore, they are conveniently close to Indore for anyone looking to make quick getaways or plan vacations. Tips for Visiting These Hill Stations Plan Accordingly: You want to make sure to visit in the winter months, such as October to February (or for some people, the monsoons from July to September), assuming you like the cold. Pack Accordingly: Bring walking shoes for rough terrain, light woolen clothes when it gets too chilly, and raincoats/shelters in the case you choose to go during the monsoon. Respect the Locals: Dress appropriately when visiting Omkareshwar and other places that are of religious importance, as there are local customs that need to be honored. Stay Hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water when going on hikes, exploring hilly areas, or checking out the Satpura and Mandus ruins. To sum up, these underrated hill stations around Indore provide a stunning combination of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure activities. While Mandu has its historical charm, Satpura is known for its wildlife. These places will always create fond memories for those willing to explore. So the next time you're taking a trip from Indore, keep these hidden gems in mind. Indore will never be the same again!


Malaysian Reserve
24-05-2025
- Malaysian Reserve
Club Offers Released on May 25, 2025
NEW YORK, May 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), the club for travel enthusiasts, announces the release of Club Offers for Club Members. Rigorously vetted and negotiated for us travel enthusiasts in Germany: 199 €—LUXURY HOTEL IN DAVOS 3 days in one of Switzerland's most fashionable places, the setting of Thomas Mann's novel The Magic Mountain. The 5-star hotel is located directly on the promenade. Club members save 47–54 percent compared to the hotel website. AB 379 €—TUSCANY: 6 DAYS WITH WINE TASTING & 3 COOKING COURSESApartments of at least 92 square meters, surrounded by cypresses and vineyards. Club members receive daily breakfast plus a 3-course candlelight dinner. 119 €—4*-HOTEL IN PARIS INCL. SEINE CRUISE, REGULAR 472 € A 2-night stay in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, once a meeting place for Sartre and Picasso. Just 15 minutes on foot from the Louvre and including breakfast. 99 €—NEW LUXURY HOTEL IN BUDAPEST, -72%Located in the middle of the UNESCO-protected old town is this 5-star superior hotel. Condé Nast Traveller magazine lists it as one of the best hotels in Budapest. The 'bold design' is particularly highlighted. 139 €—3 DAYS BLACK FOREST WITH HALF BOARD4-star superior hotel with panoramic views of the countryside. Half board with organic products and access to the spa with thermal pool is included. Club members save 39–66 percent compared to the original price. FROM 599 €—SWITZERLAND TRIP WITH GLACIER EXPRESS & HOTELS 4-day train journey in 1st class from and to Germany. Including 4-star hotels in Zermatt and St. Moritz as well as a ride on the panoramic train Glacier Express. Some offers have limited inventory and are subject to availability. Are you a travel enthusiast? Join the club today: About TravelzooWe, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. We reach 30 million travelers. Club Members receive Club Offers personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with thousands of top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give us access to irresistible deals. Travelzoo is a registered trademark of Travelzoo. All other names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Media Contact: Mara Zatti +49 30 3119 7514mzatti@


Iraqi News
23-05-2025
- Business
- Iraqi News
China's growing footprint in Iraq's energy sector fuels development and new hope
Baghdad ( – Iraq, a nation endowed with vast oil and gas reserves, is witnessing a significant transformation in its energy landscape, increasingly powered by strategic partnerships with Chinese corporations. From harnessing previously flared natural gas to ambitious plans for boosting crude oil output, these collaborations are not only reshaping Iraq's energy infrastructure but also bringing tangible improvements to daily life and fostering new economic hope. The Halfaya Gas Project: Turning Waste into Watts and Well-being In Maysan governorate, southern Iraq, the $1 billion Halfaya Gas Processing Plant, an investment by PetroChina Halfaya and executed by China Petroleum Engineering and Construction Corporation (CPECC), stands as a powerful symbol of this change. Operational since mid-2024, it tackles the long-standing issue of flaring associated gas from oil fields. This captured gas, once a pollutant, now provides cleaner energy, crucial as Iraq navigates regional energy pressures, including those related to previous electricity import arrangements. The plant processes approximately 3 billion cubic meters of associated gas annually, producing enough treated natural gas to generate electricity for an estimated 4 million Iraqi homes. For residents like Haider, a local farmer, this means reliable power. 'This blue flame is like the genie in Aladdin's lamp,' he remarked, 'cooking is easier, and we no longer fear frequent power cuts… we got back our dignity.' Beyond electricity, Halfaya yields vital by-products like 860,000 tons of LPG annually, distributed locally, and other hydrocarbons. Zainab, an engineer at the facility, shared, 'We used to flare gas day and night, feeling like we were throwing our future away. Now, it's a golden resource.' The project, inaugurated by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani, is also mindful of its proximity to the UNESCO-protected Hawizeh Marshes, with PetroChina committed to ongoing environmental monitoring and green development. China's Expanding Role: Fueling Iraq's Future Oil Ambitions This partnership extends deep into Iraq's oil sector. Under a 2019 'Oil for Reconstruction and Investment' agreement, Chinese firms are pivotal to Iraq's ambitious goal of increasing oil production towards 7 million barrels per day (bpd) from its current ~4 million bpd. A recent example is the deal with China's Geo-Jade Petroleum to expand the Al-Tooba oil field, which includes building a 200,000 bpd refinery, two power plants (one conventional 650MW, one 400MW solar), a petrochemical facility, and a fertilizer plant. Oil Minister Hayyan Abdul Ghani lauded such projects as a 'major leap' for developing Iraq's oil wealth and supporting the national economy with thousands of jobs. Indeed, Chinese companies already manage a significant portion – reportedly up to two-thirds – of Iraq's oil production and over a third of its proven reserves. Strategic Implications and the Road Ahead These large-scale collaborations offer dual benefits: Iraq gains critical infrastructure, enhances its energy self-sufficiency, and moves towards economic diversification, while China secures vital energy supplies and expansive investment avenues. For Iraq, it's a path towards leveraging its natural resources more effectively, reducing waste, and improving the lives of its citizens. As Jiang Feng, CPECC's Middle East General Manager, stated about Halfaya, such projects are not just 'engineering achievements but models of sustainable development,' bringing leading Chinese technology and environmental responsibility. This synergy, exemplified by the Halfaya plant powering homes and the broader plans to develop downstream industries, underscores a transformative era for Iraq's energy sector, heavily influenced by Chinese investment and expertise.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Yahoo
Calling All Couples: We Found 16 Romantic Vacation Ideas for Your Travel Bucket List
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." I'm a firm believer that there's no greater way to strengthen your relationship with your partner than by traveling the world with them. Sure, it sounds a little cheesy, but experiencing new places helps you grow as an individual and as a pair—and if you can love each other through long-haul flights and jetlag, you can love each other through anything. So, let me be the first to say that you and your lover should go ahead and take that PTO. You deserve a little trip. And lucky for you, I rounded up 16 of the best vacation ideas for couples, below. These are all one-of-a-kind hotels that will make the perfect home base for a romantic getaway, with picks from every corner of the world. You down? Thought so. First things first, make sure your passport isn't expired. After that, all you have to do is scroll down, find a spot that tickles your fancy, and book that flight, baby. consider letting me third wheel? Nothing screams "once-in-a-lifetime romantic getaway" quite like sipping crisp Croatian wine over panoramic Adriatic Sea views at sunset, but thankfully, Hotel Excelsior does exist in this lifetime. The hotel is equal parts old charm and new luxury, perched right over Dubrovnik's Old Town (which is UNESCO-protected itself) and equipped with a robust spa. Stopping in Hotel Excelsior's Abakus Piano Bar for a taste of live music is a must, as is the fine dining experience at Sensus for Mediterranean food made fresh with local ingredients. End your stay with a beachfront meal for two at the hotel's Prora Restaurant for a chic taste of seaside paradise. Shop Now The Swiss are good at many things—chocolate, cheese, and chic chalets being a few of them—and you can get a taste of all of their talents at Tschuggen Grand Hotel, a mountainside retreat on the east side of the country. The property has a private railway exclusive to guests that'll bring you up the mountain for skiing, hiking, or just general eye candy. When you've soaked in the views, you can head to their award-winning spa—literally carved into the mountain—which has four floors of pools, saunas, treatment rooms, fitness classes, and more. I can't think of a better way to spend a day, can you? Shop Now Stuck in a vacation rut? Always visiting the same two spots? Take it way, way overseas with a trip to Dubai, one of the hottest cities on the map—literally and figuratively. Atlantis The Royal will be hard to miss when you get there, because it's (a) a massive part of the skyline, and (b) one of the most popular hotels in the buzzing city. It's basically a luxury resort on steroids—like, anything you can think of, you can find inside this property, including a spa, shopping, a beach club, nightclubs, and so much more. (Vegas megahotels wish.) The food options are also out of this world, with 17 restaurants on-site—eight of which are helmed by celebrity chefs, and one of which is Michelin-starred. Long story short, once you touch down here, you'll never need to leave. (And you'll certainly never get hungry.) Shop Now If Marrakech, Morocco, isn't on your romantic travel radar, allow me to put you on. The enchanting city is known for its stunning architecture (those riads, though), bustling souks (aka traditional markets, where you'll find handmade goods and spices), and unique cultural activities (like hot air balloon rides!). You should experience all these things on any trip to Marrakech, but you should also do so while staying at The Oberoi, which feels like an attraction in and of itself. The entire place feels (and looks!) like a palace, nestled in the Atlas Mountains amid fruit trees and olive groves. Most of the rooms and villas have private pools and gardens, so you and your partner will feel like royalty while you're there, too. Shop Now If you love animals just as much as you love each other, a safari-centered stay should go on your joint bucket list right this second. Singita Lebombo Lodge is one of the chicest resorts in South Africa, located in a private section of the renowned Kruger National Park. The fact that it's in a private area is a major game-changer, because it means you won't have to deal with dozens of other tourists when you go out on safari walks or drives (and yeah, you're gonna want to do those). The hotel itself is built into the side of a cliff beside the N'wanetsi River, and all the rooms have an indoor/outdoor setup so you can truly appreciate the natural beauty of the area. The suites are massive, FYI, but there are also great shared spaces on the property—like a rooftop lounge, wine studio, library, pool, and interactive kitchen—if you're interested in meeting some new friends along the way. Shop Now Romantic sleepover in a treehouse, but make it really, really chic. That's what you'll get at Buahan, a Banyan Tree property in the middle of the Balinese jungle. The adults-only property has a 'no walls, no doors' concept that allows you to feel like you're truly one with nature, waking up to birds chirping and the sun pouring into your room. (If you're curious, there is indeed high-quality netting to keep things.) The views from the rooms are also ridiculously beautiful—think: glimpses of Bali's iconic rice fields and seven different mountain peaks—and I highly recommend taking a (joint?) bubble bath while taking them in. You should also try out some of their immersive experience programs, which honor Balinese culture and allow you to connect with local communities. Shop Now Italy? For couples? Groundbreaking. It's a honeymoon hotspot for a reason, though, and Lake Como, in the north, is one of the most romantic areas within the loved-up country. Grand Hotel Tremezzo, a five-star, 18th-century estate, is one of the most iconic resorts on the lake, garnering visits from celebrities, world leaders, noble families, and travel aficionados alike throughout the years (George and Amal are big fans). Book your own stay for a taste of la dolce vita, taking advantage of the hotel's three pools, lush gardens, private speedboats, world-class spa, and well-stocked wine bar. It'll be a bit of a splurge, yes, but after one spritz at Da Giacomo Al Lago, their lakeside seafood restaurant, you'll forget about your bank account—and all your responsibilities. Shop Now You know the hotel is beautiful when it has over a million followers on IG. And Calilo, a five-star stunner on the island of Ios in Greece (right between Mykonos and Santorini), certainly deserves its following. Designed to be as sustainable as possible and embrace the natural beauty of the island, Calilo is perfect for couples who wanna see Greece at its best and avoid tourist-saturated hotspots. If you really wanna get romantic, I recommend picking one of the suites with a heart-shaped pool overlooking the ocean (it's tasteful, trust), and indulging in some luxe activities. You can do a wine-tasting dinner under the stars, get in-room spa treatments, take a private boat tour, or try your hand at sunrise yoga. Shop Now Couples that hike together, stay together, right? Right. Strengthen your relationship (and calf muscles) with an awe-inspiring trip to the Great Wall of China, and stay just steps away at Commune by the Great Wall. It's a Hyatt property, so you can use those World of Hyatt points, and located right smack dab in the middle of the Shuiguan Mountains, so you can enjoy crowd-free access to the centuries-old landmark. After long days of hiking, you can retreat to one of the property's 36 super-aesthetic villas (each with mountain views!), take a dip in the outdoor pool, and chow down at Commune Kitchen, their on-site restaurant serving delicious northern Chinese cuisine. Shop Now Turkey has been gaining more and more popularity as a travel destination over the past few years, and one look at Bodrum will show you why. The country's landscapes are incredibly diverse, but Bodrum—a small city on the South Aegean coast—is heaven on earth for fans of the sun and sea. If that's you and your partner, I'm here to introduce you to The Bodrum EDITION, aka one of the most popular hotels on the Turkish Riviera. Minutes from some of the city's top attractions (15th-century ruins, anyone?) and steps from the glittering bay, you can get your fill of history and relaxation all on the same day. If you'd rather get a little rowdy, there's an exclusive beach club located right inside the resort—ideal for those who hate the long crawl home after a long night of partying. Shop Now Canada doesn't get enough credit for how freaking beautiful it is, and Tofino—a small surfing town on the west coast of Vancouver Island—is one of the prettiest places I've ever laid eyes on. Nature-loving couples will thrive here, with mountains, beaches, and temperate rainforest all packed into one gorgeous landscape. Pacific Sands Beach Resort is one of the most luxe places to soak up all the stunning sights, located on 41 acres of oceanfront property on Cox Bay and directly adjacent to Pacific Rim National Park. Forget ski-in/ski-out rooms, this property is all about surf-in/surf-out accommodations, with several private beach houses and hot-tub suites just steps from the sand. With activities like beach yoga and forest bathing, it doesn't get more unplugged than this. Shop Now Yes, New Zealand is a long plane ride away from the U.S. But one trip to Wharekauhau Country Estate, a luxury lodge across from stunning Ocean Beach, and you'll be wishing you could make a monthly pilgrimage. But this isn't an everyday sort of place: A helicopter will pick you up at the airport and whisk you away to the hotel, which is set on 3,000 acres in the foothills of the Remutaka Mountain Range. It's basically a really, really fancy farm stay, with plenty of gardens throughout the property. You can participate in 'back to nature' activities like fishing, hiking, and cycling, but if you like a New Zealand Sauvy B, you should know that the property is also close to a lot of wineries, and you can get to them by ATV. Shop Now 📍Washington, Connecticut If you'd prefer to stay a little closer to home (or just haven't gotten around to renewing your passport), may I suggest this little East Coast icon? Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection quite literally inspired the set of Gilmore Girls (read more about that here), and everything about it is so Stars Hollow-coded in the loveliest way possible. The interior design is to die for, but highlights include their dreamy THE WELL spa, and an incredible in-house restaurant with a veggie-forward menu that you'll dream of for years to come (trust me). Plus, there's a campfire with s'mores every night, and who doesn't want more of that nostalgic joy? Shop Now If you think you've experienced luxury before, there's a good chance the Rosewood Mayakoba will redefine the term for you. Right smack dab in the middle of the jungle of Mexico's Riviera Maya, everything about this waterfront resort is elevated as hell—from the gorgeous decor (beachy, but make it modern) to the butler service that comes with every stay. Also, if you and/or your partner are into golf, there's a championship course right inside the gates of the property with incredible views that'll make you a lot less mad about hitting the ball in the water. Shop Now Sometimes, the best vacations are those where you do nothing else besides eat, sleep, and spend time in the sun. You know, the ones where you don't need a vacation from your vacation at the end? The Four Seasons Anguilla is one of the most luxurious places to make all those dreams come true, located on the northwest shore of the swanky island nation (a RHONY favorite!). Settle into a room, suite, or villa (if you're feeling like balling out), and prepare to be pampered in style while your stress melts away. There are plenty of beach bars where you can relax while enjoying views of the water, and water sports galore if you need to remember what adrenaline feels like. It's all up to you! Shop Now Calling all oenophiles, this one's for you! Sure, you could go to Napa and do some tastings, but wouldn't it be cooler to tell people you went to Chilean wine country and tried some of the best Cabernet Sauvignons and Sauvignon Blancs in the world? Vik Chile is where you'll want to stay when you're there—located at the top of a hill and surrounded by mountains and 13,000 acres of vineyards. There are only 29 rooms on the property, so it definitely feels exclusive, but the common areas leave plenty of space for guests to hang out and get to know each other. (The infinity pool! The wine cellar! The game room! Oh my!) You can tour your way through the winery by foot, but you can also go through the vineyards by horseback, which, let's be real, is way more romantic. 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