Luxury Hotels Archives - Photo Tips, Creative Photography + Travel Guides - The Wandering Lens

Tokyo Hotel Review: Goldfish, Geisha and Views of Mt Fuji from Bed

Lisa Michele Burns — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 07:02:57 +0000

Visual Hotel Review: Park Hotel Tokyo Walking into a room filled with goldfish swimming across the walls, Geisha smiling from behind the bed, and a view towards Mt Fuji, it felt like I’d stepped into a colourful dream of all things quintessentially Japanese. Perched in the Shiodome Media Tower, Park Hotel Tokyo offers more than just a luxurious stay—it provides an immersive journey into Japanese art and culture. With panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline and an artistic ethos that permeates every corner, the hotel seamlessly blends contemporary design with traditional aesthetics. Located in the heart of Tokyo, it’s an ideal base for exploring the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, while its unique art-focused concept ensures a stay that’s as inspiring as it is comfortable. Location Situated in the heart of Tokyo’s Shiodome district, Park Hotel Tokyo occupies the upper floors of the Shiodome Media Tower, offering guests panoramic views of the city skyline. The hotel is conveniently connected to Shiodome Station, providing easy access to Tokyo’s extensive public transportation network. Ginza, renowned for its shopping and dining, is within walking distance, and other major areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Akihabara are easily accessible. From Haneda Airport, the hotel is a 20-minute taxi...

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Adventure, Art and Altiplano Wonders at Awasi Atacama

Lisa Michele Burns — Sun, 13 Oct 2024 10:47:37 +0000

Visual Hotel Review: Awasi Atacama, San Pedro de Atacama There’s an atmosphere inside the walls of Awasi Atacama that’s hard to describe. A type of calm that allows you to breathe deeper and refresh. A warmth that makes you feel at home amongst carefully curated décor, cuisine and design. Then there’s the beautiful balance of immersive adventure, art and relaxation. It’s the type of place you’ll forever be grateful you stayed, somewhere so unlike anywhere else. For me, it was an artistic escape, a chance to explore the wildlife and natural wonders of the desert and Andean Altiplano, while focusing on my creative process, slowing things down and really taking the time to let it all soak in. Places like this are few and far between, and the Atacama Desert has continued to be somewhere that fuels my creativity, a stay at Awasi took that one step further. Take a peek at my experience below… ————- Let’s skip to the first evening, for which we’d arranged with our guide and private driver, Cecilia, to spend overlooking Lincancabur Volcano and the Mars Valley, just outside San Pedro de Atacama. Photographing sunset is something I always try and do on the first...

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Sea Breezes, Style and Skabenga: A Stay at The Oyster Box

Lisa Michele Burns — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 12:02:52 +0000

Visual Hotel Review: The Oyster Box, South Africa Arriving late in the evening, the attention to detail was obvious as I glanced around the lobby, taking mental snapshots of the art, décor and architecture I wanted to photograph during my stay. Like stepping onto a film set, it felt timeless, charming, and so very welcoming, there’s even a resident cat, Skabenga, slinking around the halls. Heading straight to bed after the 22-hour travel day from Australia, I settled into the plush pink pillow and set my alarm for sunrise. I didn’t want to miss a moment of what The Oyster Box’s location promised, after all, I could already hear the waves as I drifted to sleep. Waking slowly to the alarm, my mind still thinking it was back at home, it took a moment to realise the glow appearing across framed art on the wall was filtering through from sunrise over the sea, in South Africa. As soon as I connected to where I’d woken up, I jumped out of bed, unzipped my camera bag and dashed onto the balcony, not even caring that anyone walking by may get a shock from the smiling zombie stumbling into the scene. It’s...

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Aman Kyoto: A Tranquil Haven in Nature’s Embrace

Maja Laxdal — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 11:10:31 +0000

Visual Hotel Review of Aman Kyoto By Contributor and Photographer Maja Laxdal Nestled amidst the enchanting forests of Kyoto, Aman Kyoto stands as a testament to the seamless integration of modern luxury and traditional Japanese aesthetics. My recent stay at this exquisite resort left me captivated by its attention to detail and overwhelming feeling of serenity. Aman Kyoto’s secluded location provides a haven of tranquility, surrounded by the lush beauty of nature. The resort’s commitment to preserving the natural environment creates an atmosphere that immediately transports guests away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Aman Kyoto, designed by the brilliant late Kerry Hill, is an architectural brilliance. The resort embraces the philosophy of “wabi-sabi,” celebrating the beauty found in simplicity and imperfection. The design reflects a deep respect for the traditional Japanese aesthetic, incorporating elements such as sliding doors, tatami mat flooring, and a minimalist design ethos. Walking through the carefully crafted spaces, one can’t help but appreciate the thoughtfulness put into every detail. The minimalist design of the guest pavilions and rooms perfectly balances modern luxury with the timeless elegance of Japanese architecture. Each room offers a sense of peace and harmony, creating a space where...

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I know a place – Hoshinoya Kyoto, Japan

Lisa Michele Burns — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 08:00:27 +0000

Hoshinoya Kyoto – A Visual Hotel Review I know a place… Where a turquoise river leads to tranquility. Where Japanese maples drape traditional wooden pavilions and the sound of water brings an instant serenity. Here, natural beauty blends with the elegance and enchanting architecture of a 17th century villa. A luxurious retreat nestled on the banks of the Oi River where time passes slowly. Hoshinoya Kyoto exudes every element of relaxation. The surroundings, the interiors, staff, cuisine and activities all meticulously work together to provide an experience of rejuvenation and cultural immersion. It’s a hotel that feels like a lavish home. Somewhere to stay as a destination, one you’ll probably never want to leave. Located in Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most beautiful districts, it’s an area that’s been frequented by noble families since medieval times. Today, Arashiyama is a popular location for visitors with the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Monkey Park and a number temples ranging from UNESCO World Heritage sites through to tiny corners of moss covered brilliance drawing the crowds daily. Hoshinoya Kyoto however is totally private, accessible only by wooden boat and tucked away within the majestic Rankyo Gorge. Within the grounds of the inn, the gardens welcome...

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Visual Hotel Review: Fairmont Waterfront, Vancouver

Lisa Michele Burns — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 00:00:17 +0000

Where pulling back the curtains reveals the bustling waterway, rugged mountain peaks and stunning scenery of Vancouver, Canada. Welcome to Fairmont Waterfront, it’s beeutiful (you’ll see why 😉). Few hotels offer the ability to photograph landscape images from your room. Not only that but you can even lie on your cushy bed and capture the alpine scenery from a room at Fairmont Waterfront, one of Vancouver’s best located hotels for snap happy travellers. Before getting cosy at night, leave your curtains a little bit open so the morning sun rays will gently alert you to the snow-capped peaks changing colour outside your floor to ceiling window. It’s really quite hard to put your camera down and turn on the TV or take a shower actually! The views here were the main reason I chose to stay at the Fairmont Waterfront when I visited Vancouver back in 2009 then again this year, nine years later. It’s every mountain lovers dream scene and not only that, the in-room luxuries are ready and waiting to keep you very comfortable during your stay. If you happen to be staying at the hotel there’s of course plenty more to explore outside of your room too....

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Enchanting Luxury at the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

Lisa Michele Burns — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 10:41:16 +0000

Visual Hotel Review – Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, Japan Stone steps lead through an 800-year-old Japanese garden where vibrant autumn trees dance delicately over a koi pond. It’s every bit as enchanting as it sounds! You’ll find this historic garden within the grounds of the sparkling new Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto at the foot of Higashiyama Mountain. I’m not usually one to overly gush about somewhere with words (I prefer photos) but this hotel is an absolute haven of beauty that celebrates Japanese culture within a bambooed realm of luxury. It may sound cliché but from the moment you walk through the doors you feel at ease. The décor, the light, the atmosphere; it exceeds expectations and makes you feel all warm and cosy. The hotel beautifully blends the interior design with the landscapes outside which is evident as soon as you enter your room. Big glass windows are a feature throughout the hotel with the use of wooden furniture in little pockets of the corridors that feel make it feel as though you’re sitting in the garden. Visiting in early December, I was lucky enough to have two Japanese maple trees in peak colours right outside my window. Waking...

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STAY: luxury in europe’s highest village

Lisa Michele Burns — Mon, 28 Aug 2017 15:05:23 +0000

VISUAL HOTEL REVIEW – HOTEL ALTA PEYRA High up in the clouds where the air is crisp and the mountain scenery dramatic, lies a little village called Saint-Véran. It’s in fact the highest village in Europe perched at 2042m in the Queyras Region of the Haute-French Alps and you can stay in luxury right at the top! Looking over the historic village is the Hotel Alta Peyra, a luxe ski lodge made up of five interconnecting chalets meaning you can get to and from the slopes with ease. In summer it’s the perfect base for outdoor adventures with hiking trails on your doorstep, views over the valley and my favourite part, an indoor/outdoor pool that’s simply the bee’s knees. Wake up to clouds rising gently through the village, slowly revealing the surrounding alpine scenery. I was glued to the window for almost the entire stay because really, the French Alps are pretty damn stunning. After a croissant and pain au chocolate feast at breakfast, we spent each morning in the pool swimming from the warmth of the indoor pool through a little watery door to the exterior. I can imagine in winter when the snow is piled high around the...

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London Luxury: Sofitel London St James Visual Hotel Review

Lisa Michele Burns — Wed, 05 Apr 2017 14:44:55 +0000

If you could take a few days to walk in the footsteps of royalty, wake up to views of the past yet sleep in the luxury of today, would you be tempted? Well if your hand isn’t up in the air mine sure is! As a big fan of London’s historic buildings, streets and parks I based myself in the St James’ area for a weekend at the Sofitel London St James. Located right in the heart of the city the hotel is within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the West End and the beautiful Hyde Park. Actually, you don’t really need to walk that far at all to see a bit of history with the hotel itself located inside an old bank and the hallways telling their own stories of years gone by. Just around the corner is Her Majesty’s Theatre, Trafalgar Square and Clarence House, then there’s also one of my favourite places in London, St James’s Park and the Horse Guards Parade within a five minutes stroll. Sofitel’s reputation for luxury is showcased throughout the rooms and facilities with little French touches blending with traditional English décor. The Rose Lounge, filled with so much pink,...

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Visual Hotel Review: Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown

Lisa Michele Burns — Mon, 05 Sep 2016 00:17:39 +0000

great rates hereArriving in darkness I knew we were in for a sunrise like no other on our first day in Queenstown. Like kids on Christmas morning, we ran straight to the window to peel open the curtains and reveal the scene that was waking behind. Rugged mountain peaks with a fresh coating of snowy goodness stood tall above the teal perfection of Lake Wakatipu. Sunshine was slowly crawling into the valleys as the snow began to glisten in it’s morning glow. It immediately confirmed our suspicions…winter in Queenstown is like being in a real world snow globe. Lets rewind though to the previous night when my sister and I checked into the luxe Hotel St Moritz, part of Accor’s MGallery collection. The entrance was reminiscent of a European ski village with stone and wood blending by a log fire where people sat sipping mulled wine. Hello winter perfection! Opening the door to our Alpine Suite we were blown away by the size and grandeur. If you can imagine two squealing adults running from room to room in disbelief, thinking so many thoughts but only managing to say ‘eeee’. This was us. Calming down enough to soak it all in, the...

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A Night At 2132m High In The Swiss Alps

Lisa Michele Burns — Mon, 13 Jun 2016 04:33:35 +0000

There’s something romantic about being in the mountains. The crisp fresh air, sweeping views and majestic heights of rugged peaks as far as the eye can see. If you’re after a unique hotel experience, I’ve found one that’s pretty special! The beautiful Swiss Alps are home to ski villages and chalets aplenty, but on top of Mount Pilatus which overlooks Lucerne, you’ll find Hotel Pilatus Kulm. Originally opened in 1890, the hotel has been recently been refurbished and offers an experience like no other…sleeping at 2132m above sea level. During the day it’s a popular tourist attraction and you’ll find it can get quite busy. During the evening however if you’re lucky enough to be spending the night, it’s just you, the mountain air, the odd mountain goat and the stars. From 5pm until 8am Mount Pilatus is yours to explore without any selfie sticks or tour groups getting in the way. Sit outside with a giant rug and a hot chocolate while you watch the stars twinkle over the snow covered mountains, or take a hike to watch the lights of Lucerne sparkle below. Staying at Hotel Pilatus Kulm can be as romantic or adventurous as you wish....

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Visual Hotel Review: Novotel Monte Carlo, Monaco

Lisa Michele Burns — Sun, 13 Mar 2016 00:30:06 +0000

A view toward the Prince’s Palace, a harbour filled with mega yachts and the calm seas of the Mediterranean. That’s what you can expect to see from your balcony at the Novotel Monte Carlo, a hotel where you can soak up the glitz without breaking the budget. With the trademark clean styling of every Accor property, each room is fresh and well-appointed offering the perfect base for exploring the wonders of Monaco. If you’re visiting to photograph Monaco or exploring the sights you’ll probably find a day isn’t quite enough. Being able to drop your suitcase and head outdoors from sunrise to starry night offers the chance to see Monaco is every light, a true spectacle that few get to witness. The hotel is based right near the train station allowing easy access once you arrive and then a short walk to the sea regardless of which direction you wander. As with all Visual Hotel Reviews I’ll let the photos do the talking so please find a collection below to highlight the fabulous Novotel Monte Carlo. Actually no. One more thing. If you’re keen for some late night gaming and don’t have a gown for the casino, in your hotel...

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