With my latest post I thought I would have a little bit of fun with the layout whilst introducing some of the world’s alternative luxury holiday destinations. Following the initialism of LUXURY, the word that defines the ethos of this blog, here are six more of the most exclusive holiday properties.

Lizard Island, Australia- Lizard Island is enviably sandwiched between the rugged coast of northern Queensland and the world renowned Great Barrier Reef. Australia’s most northerly private island resort hit the headlines recently when it was mooted as the ‘would be’ honeymoon destination of the newlywed Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (William and Kate). Regardless of whether or not the couple decide to travel here, Lizard Island remains one of the most exclusive resorts in Oceania. Along with its luxury accommodation the island boasts 24 of its own private beaches ensuring an unrivalled level of intimacy and seclusion. Combining stunning nature, great food, an inexhaustible list of activities and opulent accommodation this is an excellent luxury holiday destination.

Ubud Hanging Gardens, Bali- Bali is a vibrant and beautiful region and despite its relatively diminutive stature offers incredible diversity. A culture renowned the world over for their wisdom, warmth and creativity for a unique insight into Asia, Bali is unrivalled. Ubud hanging gardens is an all villa luxury property hidden away in the depths of the Balinese jungle yet only fifteen minutes away by complimentary shuttle from the vibrant centre of Ubud. Overlooking the Ayang River and the dense vegetation beyond the accommodation blends effortlessly into the hillside designed in true Balinese style with local dark woods and thatched roofs. The hotel boasts its own funicular (inclined) railway which transports guests to and from their villa, the two restaurants and the exclusive Ayang Spa.

eXcellence Playa Mujeres, Mexico- An all inclusive, adults only resort this flagship member of the Excellence hotels portfolio was recently voted as Tripadvisor.com’s most luxurious romantic resort. Located just south of Cancun, one of the world’s best loved holiday destinations, Playa Mujeres is the newest jewel in Mexico’s crown enjoying privacy and seclusion this virgin oasis promises the ideal symphony of convenience, peace, luxury and activity. Built around a private white sandy beach and boasting seven beautifully sculpted swimming pools forming an inland marina the Excellence matches its quality of service with the beauty of its execution. With an extensive fitness and activities centre, spa, Greg Norman designed golf course and an unbelievable choice of 9 different dining experiences you will never need to leave the comfort of the resort.

U Zlate Studne Golden Wall, Czech Republic-  The Czech Republic is quickly asserting a reputation as a new rising star of tourism in Europe. Combing history and culture with the warmth and beauty of its people and the stunning vistas across Bohemia more and more people are discovering this beguiling land. Prague itself is a vibrant and modern city but with a traditional core and this symmetry is certainly reflected in the design of the boutique hotel the Golden Well at U Zlate Studne. Modern luxury meets old age opulence in a milieu of rich woods and fabrics matched with all the amenities one would expect from a five star property. One of the best features of the Golden Well is its dining and a choice of cuisine served in the intimate 26 seated main dining room or (I would recommend) the roof top terrace which offers spectacular views over Prague.

Royal Malewane, South Africa- One of South Africa’s preeminent safari lodges, Royal Malewane has been catering for a discerning clientele since its inception in 2000. A member of the exclusive ‘Royal’ portfolio the property occupies a superb location nestling between the wilds of the famous Kruger National Park and dramatic Drakensburg Mountains. Extravagant décor extends throughout the all suite lodge with colonial style Victorian baths, grand fireplaces and canopied king size beds. One of the major attractions is of course the wild life and Malewane’s private game guides will accompany through the 13,000 acre private reserve set within the larger Kruger Park where you can hope to observe Africa’s ‘big five’; lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos.

Yasawa Island, Fiji- Synonymous with remote luxury and romance the Fiji archipelago is the ultimate island destination. At only 22km long and 1km wide despite Yasawa’s size it offers all of the glamour and grandeur associated with a Fijian island resort and at only a short 35 minute flight from Nadi’s International airport promises convenience too. There are no other hotels on the island other than the 18 ‘bures’ (traditional thatched bungalows) that make up the exclusive Yasawa Island resort. Beautifully understated and elegant all the while this is a place that softly whispers class; there are no overblown gestures just a thoughtfully designed property that harnesses the natural beauty of the surroundings. With a private spa and renowned dining experience the emphasis here is to do as much or as little as you like; from beach picnics to catamaran sailing, snorkelling or strolling through the undergrowth the choice is yours.

Bali, an island nation in the middle of Indonesia, is a peaceful respite for the spiritual luxury holiday traveller.  Filled with beautiful temples, lush scenery, and picturesque beaches, Bali can provide the best of luxury holiday accommodation along with a peace that will enable you to return to your daily life refreshed, relaxed, and happy.

Unlike most of Indonesia, Bali’s main religion is Hindu Dharma, which along with the island’s numerous temples creates that feeling of spirituality which many crave on their holidays.  The abundance of temples, volcanoes, and exotic flowers will truly make you feel you’ve landed in a magical destination, and the friendliness of the people can only enhance your experience there.

Bali’s most popular aspects are of course its beaches, and they still hold up as fantastic examples of quality beaches where you may choose to stay for a week or two.  A few of the beaches are fashionable, see-and-be-seen destinations, like Seminyak, while others are quiet and intimate.  Many Balinese have a natural flair for style, and as a result creative types are drawn to the island, in many cases opening their own shops and boutique hotels for you to explore or stay in.

Bali’s accommodation is among the world’s finest.  If you’d rather a quieter, more peaceful holiday, you might choose to stay in Puri Ganesha, which is located on the island’s North coast near the small town of Permeturan.  The entire property is flooded with relaxation and each two-storey villa is very private.  They’ve been designed in traditional Balinese style and each villa has its own individual colour scheme; nothing about this holiday will be cookie-cutter.  You’ll have your own swimming pool, but even better you’ll be just a few steps away from the beach.

If you’re heading to Bali for your honeymoon, you might choose to stay in the Honeymoon Villa, which is decorated in cream, silver, and gold, with mosquito nets draped romantically over the four poster bed.  The main bedroom has floor to ceiling windows, offering fantastic lights and views of the nearby sea.

If you’re looking to stay in fashionable Seminyak, the Samaya Seminyak is located in the heart of this gorgeous beach.  The resort is located on a perfect stretch of soft white beach and is just twenty minutes from the airport, so you won’t have to worry about how you’re getting where you’re going.  You have two choices of villa; 24 are located along the beach and 22 are set across the road, but are larger and more luxurious.  Each villa has its own private pool, which varies in size depending on the villa.  The courtyard villas even have TVs in the bath and complimentary non-alcoholic minibars.  All guests can enjoy the resort’s pool, the spa, and the ocean view restaurant, Breeze.

Breeze is an award-winning restaurant which serves al fresco food on a deck overlooking the water.  The restaurant specialises in modern, pan-Asian food, with fresh ingredients and high quality recipes.  Filled with comfy sofas and chairs, the restaurant is also the perfect place to enjoy a special, romantic drink with that someone or simply watch the sun set.

A Balinese holiday can make your dreams come true; don’t miss out on this fantastic destination!

We’re now in the middle of June and it’s the perfect time for talking summer holidays.  When the weather warms up, we’re all ready to get out of the office and take it easy on a beach throughout July and August.  Most of us unfortunately don’t have that option, but summer is one of the most popular times for a holiday with good reason.  Everyone wants to take two weeks and head outdoors for fun and relaxation.

With this in mind, we started wondering, what are the best places to head for a luxury holiday in the summer?  We’ve put together a list of three different destinations and done our best to explain why each of them is the perfect destination for you this summer.  If you take us up on our suggestions, do let us know how you get on – we’re always looking to add more detail and guidance to our list of luxurious destinations.

Our first summer destination choice for summer 2010 is Bali.  Most of Asia experiences its wet season in our summer up north, making them feel all too familiar – and not summery at all – for visitors from the UK, but not this stunning little Indonesian island.  Instead, you’ll enjoy tropical temperatures, bright sunny days, and gorgeous beaches – precisely what you want out of a summer holiday.

Bali is an incredibly peaceful place and thus the perfect stop for anyone eager to embrace a couple of weeks without work or stress.  Most residents of Bali practice Hindu Dharma, a peace-loving quiet religion that immediately calls to mind the ancient but still maintained stone temples that populate the island.  Bali has on occasion been called the island of a thousand temples; you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy quiet and solitude in stark contrast to your normal busy populated life.

There is plenty of space for creative types in Bali, too, and in fact it’s become something of a haven for artistic communities with boutique hotels and shops lining the otherwise traditional streets.  Many of the hotels you could choose to stay in on your holiday are small and provide a truly intimate feel for the perfect customised stay.  There is so much original art around that you may even choose to purchase a signature piece as your souvenir of the holiday.

If you’re after big luxury with heated swimming pools, 24 hour butler service, and silk sheets, Bali can provide that, too.  The Club at the Legian, located in Seminyak, will even provide you with your own driver, letting you relax and do nothing demanding beyond lift your drink to your lips for the duration of your stay.

If you’re more into hiking, you won’t be disappointed.  The scenery is stunning; you’ll find truly tropical jungles edged by soft sand and gorgeous ragged beaches.  Keep your camera close by because you’re sure to find hundreds of opportunities for the perfect shot which can beautifully encapsulate your entire holiday.  Join a tour guide for treks up volcanic mountains and visits to tiny, off-the-grid native villages.  Licensed divers can take a swim and discover the gorgeous colourful coral world beneath Bali’s turquoise waters.

You’ll find something for everyone on a luxury holiday in Bali.  It provides the relaxation you need for a summer holiday with tons of potential for outdoor activities of all kinds.