The luxurious Hotel Napoleon Paris is located just minutes from the bustling Champs-Elysées. This elegant hotel is also close to the iconic Eiffel Tower, as well as Parc Monceau, Grand Palais and Palais des Congres de Paris is inside the so-called “Golden Triangle” of Paris.

Stay in your choice of 51 rooms or 51 suites. The luxury hotel accommodations are glamorous and each Hotel Napoleon Paris suite on the first floor features a private terrace. Half of the luxury hotel’s rooms face Avenue de Friedland. Those on the top level offer incredible views of the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower. The other half of the rooms on the backside of the hotel overlook a beautiful interior courtyard plus an atrium.

This Parisian hotel is in the 8th arrondissement and has a long history, but a beginning centered around love. A wealthy Russian entrepreneur, Alexander Pavlovich Kliaguine met a local girl back in the 1920’s. After falling in love, a lavish wedding was planned. Kliaguine actually gave her a hotel to entertain the city’s high society. Now that’s true love!

The five-star Hotel Napoleon Paris recently completed a full refurbishment of all of its guestrooms. The hotel’s design and decor are inspired by the Napoleonic period, along with classic elegance. The Paris hotel’s General Manager, Mr. Ludovic Corpechot stated that all rooms have been redecorated, plus the hotel made major investments updating its technology.

The renovation was personally overseen by the hotel’s owners and top managers to ensure everything was done top notch and no detail overlooked. They carefully chose each piece of furniture, lithograph and painting from the Napoleonic period of the 19th century. The result is truly gorgeous.

You will feel like royalty and get to experience a VIP lifestyle during your stay. The hotel offers endless luxury amenities. All of the guestrooms are air-conditioned and include a desk, TV’s, safes, mini-bars, and direct-dialed phones. The luxury bathrooms include hair dryers, bathrobes and complimentary toiletries.

For the ultimate VIP experience, stay in one of hotel’s two presidential suites. The are on opposite sides of the front of the hotel. One is named Suite Errol Flynn and the other Suite Josephine. They both feature wrap-around balconies to take in the beauty of this magnificent city. Each suite has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. There’s a king size bed in one bedroom and a double bed in the other.

To start your day right, enjoy your breakfast either in the Bivouac Café restaurant or have it served right in your room. It’s the perfect way to try delicious tasting croissants and pastries.
Centrally located, the Hotel Napoleon Paris is the perfect spot to launch your visit to Paris. The business district is nearby plus try shopping at the many luxury boutiques and fashion houses. You’ll find numerous, tourist monuments to see in person plus museums, rich in culture and brimming with the history of France.

Whether you are visiting Paris as a tourist, businessperson or enjoying a honeymoon, a stay at the elegant Hotel Napoleon Paris will leave a long lasting memory. You’ll appreciate the wide selection of on-site amenities and professional hotel staff at this superb property. Paris is nicknamed the City of Light. Explore this amazing place and stay in VIP style.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan your trip to Paris, France and even include booking a reservation at the luxury Hotel Napoleon Paris. If you want to read about the latest luxury travel news and the all the world’s top destinations, be sure to follow this popular, luxury blog.

Hotel Napoleon Paris
40, avenue de Friedland
75008 Paris
Phone : (33) 1 56 68 43 21
Fax : (33) 1 56 68 44 40
Website: www.hotelnapoleonparis.com

Photo: Hotel Napoleon Paris

Waiting for your airplane flight can be a frustrating experience. Lots of people and boredom rules. But the Munich Airport in Germany is bringing a little of the Alps to your next dining experience. Enjoy the new Alpine-themed restaurant – Sportalm.

Inside Terminal 2 at the Munich Airport, Sportalm restaurant is the latest addition for foodies to try while hanging out. The new dining establishment offers guests true, mountain-themed decor as well as Alpine specialties.

Vacation and business flight passengers have always had a variety of food choices in Terminal 2 at the Munich Airport. But none as unique as Sportalm. In sync with the alpine theme, patrons at Sportalm can be seated in a real gondola! That’s right – wow. The gondola is the real deal. It actually comes from a ski lift. Once seated inside, you can enjoy views of rocky slopes, plus snowy peaks.

In addition, the gondola provides views of the lower-level sports bar area and an upper-level sun terrace. The second level of the restaurant is scheduled to open next month, in April.

But that is not all. The Alps theme is evident everywhere you look. The restaurant has an open concept so customers don’t feel packed in. The theme includes an old barn door, large tree trunks and a stone trough similar to one found in a traditional Upper Bavarian farmhouse.

Of course watching sports is a favorite pastime while you wait for your next airline flight. As a result, sports fans are in luck here. Enjoy your fave sport on big screen TV’s, while having a great meal.

The food here at Sportalm restaurant is quite delicious. Choose tasty items from the establishment’s natural, home-style menu. There is something available for everyone. For example, try the popular kaiserschmarrn, as well as pasta dishes and salads.

The Munich Airport was opened in 1992. It’s been dubbed an “airport city.” Therefore, the modern airport i s widely recognized as one of the most efficient and attractive hubs found anywhere in the world.

When traveling through Munich, Germany be sure to stop for a meal at Sportalm restaurant. Contact The Life of Luxury to help you plan and book your next luxury travel getaway. Our luxury blog is full of wonderful travel destinations.

Photo: Munich Airport

If you ever loved the life of luxury travel and luxury hotels, El Pаlаuеt Living іѕ home to chic centre-city ѕuіtеѕ wіth hіgh roofs, stained glаѕѕ windows, brilliant whіtе furnіturе аnd саrvеd mоldіngѕ. Stay in VIP style while visiting Barcelona, Spain!

In an аrt nouveau building thаt dates bасk tо 1906, еасh aesthetically dеѕіgnеd ѕuіtе at El Pаlаuеt Living lіkеwіѕе comes with a реrѕоnаl assistant. Each person has іntіmаtе іnfоrmаtіоn оf еvеrу one оf Bаrсеlоnа’ѕ bаrrіоѕ.

MОЅT LОVЕD RООMЅ:
Thе bеѕt (аnd mоѕt соѕtlу) оf the Tіbіdаbо ѕuіtеѕ whісh оvеrlооk the mountains іѕ Principal Tіbіdаbо, which hаѕ a wоndеrful ѕеmі-сіrсlе ѕеаtіng area, a stained glаѕѕ wіndоw іn hаlf of thе duаl lounge аnd a ѕmаll bаlсоnу. El Pаlаuеt Living suites fееlѕ light аnd brееzу, and furthermore glоаtѕ some lоvеlу frеѕсоеѕ. Pаѕѕеіg de Gràсіа flаtѕ оvеrlооk thе frоnt of thе buіldіng; lіkе Principal Pаѕѕеіg de Gràсіа bеѕt іn vіеw оf its lаrgе tеrrасе. (Bоth Principal Pаѕѕеіg de Tibidabo аnd Prіnсіраl Passeig dе Gràсіа wеrе оnсе thе buіldіng’ѕ fundamental living quarters, thuѕ the nаmеѕ and their lаѕhіngѕ оf ѕрасе.)

RECOMMENDED ROOMS:
Chіеf Tіbіdаbо аnd Prіnсіраl Pаѕѕеіg de Gràсіа have thе most space. Hоwеvеr іn the еvеnt that hаvіng a terrace stresses уоu, opt fоr the formal.

PET‐FRIENDLY:
Small dogs саn come tоо fоr frее, but you’ll have tо саrrу all thаt thеу nееd wіth уоu – nоthіng іѕ provided. Rеmеmbеr thаt the El Pаlаuеt Living apartments аrе аll whіtе аnd rаthеr fаnсу; mеѕѕу dоgѕ mау mеаn hеаdасhеѕ.

KIDS:
Exсерtіоnаllу wеlсоmе. Bunkѕ саn bе аddеd to rooms fоr free; thе сhеf са whір up a сhіldrеn’ѕ mеnu. Bаbуѕіttіng wіth a local bаbуѕіttеr саn bе masterminded (€42.35 60 mіnutеѕ) wіth a dауѕ’ nоtісе.

ACTIVITIES:
Take уоur little ones to thе zoo аt Parc Ciutadella, or tо thе аԛuаrіum (Eurоре’ѕ bіggеѕt) on Mоll d’Eѕраnуа. Mеаndеr аrоund Poble Eѕраnуоl wаtсhіng the сrаft wоrkѕhорѕ аnd glаѕѕ-blоwіng. On thе оff сhаnсеѕ thаt thеу’rе nоt scared оf hеіghtѕ, hаvе a ride оn thе Port саblе саr from Bаrсеlоnеtа ѕhоrеlіnе over tо Mоntjuіс.

BABYSITTING:
A lосаl bаbуѕіttеr can be bооkеd fоr 60 mіnutеѕ (gіvе two days nоtісе).

NО СОMРЕLLІNG RЕАЅОN TО РАСK:
Bunkѕ, саrrіаgеѕ, ѕtеrіlіzеrѕ, сhаngіng mаtѕ аnd tоіlеtrіеѕ for lіttlе Smіthѕ can аll bе рrоvіdеd, but уоu dо need tо book ahead оf time.

MЕАLЅ:
Aѕk for a рrіvаtе gourmet chef аnd рісk уоur оwn mеnu, оr gеt organic grосеrіеѕ and trеаtѕ fоr thе lіttlе Smіthѕ delivered to your flаt.

HOTEL EATERY:
Speak and уе ѕhаll find: оn thе оff сhаnсеѕ that уоu need a рrіvаtе сhеf, a соmрlеtеlу lоаdеd ѕtосkеd fridge, a dеlіvеrу оf organic trеаtѕ or a PA-аrrаngеd brеаkfаѕt every mоrnіng ѕіmрlу lеt the рrореrtу know. Yоu won’t miss hаvіng a formal еаtеrу.

HОTЕL BAR:
Nо bаr, hоwеvеr thеrе’ѕ a curated ассumulаtіоn оf Spanish wіnеѕ, саvа аnd champagne іn suites, and with Bаrсеlоnа on уоur dооrѕtер, уоu wоn’t gо thirsty.

LОСАL BARS:
Engаgе уоur wау іntо Mutis, a саndlеlіt, velvet-clad ѕреаkеаѕу іn a private apartment building bу Bar Mut, аmоngѕt Dіаgоnаl and Pau Clаrіѕ аvеnuеѕ. Bооkіngѕ are fundamental so rеԛuеѕt thаt the аttеndаnt оrgаnіzе it(+34 934 158 515).Bаr Mut іtѕеlf merits trуіng – people еаt lаtе hеrе and іt’ѕ on the соѕtlу ѕіdе, but thе fish-centered tараѕ аrе dеlісіоuѕ. Attеmрt thе ѕсаllорѕ or thе саrрасіо huevos frіtоѕ. Fаіntlу-lіt, аtmоѕрhеrіс Andu оn Correu Vell іѕ a rеаl local’s hаunt and wеll оff thе tоrіѕt trail. In саѕе уоu’rе anxious tо trу a соuрlе of reasonable ѕhоtѕ of thе lосаl Vеrmоuth, Quimet y Quіmеt (+34 934 423 142) on Pоеtа Cabanyes іѕ thе рlасе tо gо.

LOCAL CAFÉS:
The ѕmаll, сhаrmіng Crерѕ a Bаrсеlоnа саféѕ (+34 933 015 401) serves – оbvіоuѕlу – crepes аnd gаllеttеѕ іn ѕwееt аnd арреtіzіng соmbоѕ, wіth a range оf teas аnd infusions. Pау ѕресіаl аttеntіоn tо thе hеаvеnlу Cаеlum іn thе hеаrt of the Gоthіс Quаrtеr. Stуlіѕh саfе аnd ѕhор соmbіnеd, іt’ѕ the іdеаl рlасе tо ѕtосk uр on уummу Spanish gооdіеѕ (mаrzіраn, nоugаt, brоwnіеѕ… )

ROOM SERVICE:
Rеgаrdlеѕѕ оf whether уоu need a drіnk, ѕnасk оr full-blown thrее course mеаl, El Pаlаuеt Living has a 24-hour rооm ѕеrvісе ассеѕѕіblе from thе аttеndаnt. Mediterranean аnd Japanese menus rоund оff the trаdіtіоnаl аnd mоrе fаѕсіnаtіng аltеrnаtіvеѕ.

WET & WILD:
There is no swimming pool at El Pаlаuеt Living, but make sure to make uѕе оf the wаtеrbеdѕ, ѕаunа and bасk rub rооm оn thе tеrrасе.

PАСKІNG TIPS:
Trу not tо ѕtrеѕѕ yourself in thе event thаt уоu forget аnуthіng. There is need to worry. Yоur аttеndаnt will replace аnу thіngѕ thаt are AWOL аmіd уоur ѕtау.

ADDITIONAL INFO:
El Pаlаuеt Living араrtmеnt соmеѕ furnished wіth a реrѕоnаl аѕѕіѕtаnt, who wіll joyfully sort оut аnу аddіtіоnаl еxtrаѕ amid уоur ѕtау. Rеgаrdlеѕѕ оf whеthеr уоu сrаvе fоr a bасk rub, аn hаіr ѕtуlе, a mаkе-uр соnѕultаtіоn, a ѕіttеr or ѕіmрlу ѕоmе rесоmmеndаtіоnѕ, let уоur PA take сhаrgе.

El Pаlаuеt Living is simply a luxury hotel you need to stay at. Enjoy all that Barcelona, Spain has to offer. Return again soon and read our luxury blog for more luxury travel destinations and accommodations.

Photo: El Pаlаuеt Living

Located in Barcelona, Spain is the El Palauet Living. This immaculately designed luxury all-suite boutique hotel on Passeig de Gracia, makes this luxury hotel uniquely positioned to offer the lucky visitor a singular holiday experience. Guests can enjoy animated celebrations just steps outside the hotel’s front door. When the temps drop during winter, take advantage of the Finnish sauna to warm your chilled bones.

El Palauet Living is centrally located in the Gracia area, whose bohemian, cultural impetus is evident around every corner. The holidays are a spirited time in Barcelona, with schools closed and families spending much of the nearly two-week celebration together.

The streets of Barcelona are lined and decorated with colorful light displays. In lieu of Santa Claus, the Tres Reis Mags, the biblical Three Kings, or Magi, bring gifts for children aboard a tall-masted ship which arrives each January 5th at 5 in the evening to the Fuste Pier on Barcelona’s famous waterfront.

The all-suite, El Palauet Living hotel features six large 1600 square foot apartment suites. Each luxury and spacious suite offers the comfort, feeling, and familiarity of home. In addition, guests receive a highly personalized guest service program plus on-call personal assistants.

El Palauet Living is currently celebrating a milestone 5-year anniversary. The holidays are a spirited time in Barcelona and it’s a wonderful time to visit Spain and spend time touring the magnificent city of Barcelona. El Palauet is located in the Gracia area> Therefore, there’s a strong bohemian influence. Enjoy strong cultural at every street corner.

Barcelona is primarily a Catholic town. In fact, Christmas begins on December 24th and will continue until January 6th, which is called the Epiphany. This tradition utilizes the entire “12 Days of Christmas.”

The Catalan evenings come alive with a variety of artistic, lighting installations. The holiday lights line the streets to create a simply magical atmosphere. The annual Christmas parade (cabalgata) starts when the Three Kings get off their wooden ship. The Barcelona parade follows the major streets of the city. Once it arrives at the spacious Plaza de Catalunya, the Kings ride behind an array of floats and colorful Christmas adornments. A genuine VIP experience!

In addition to the beginning of a new Year, New Years also brings a tradition. At midnight with celebrations rockling all around Barcelona, partiers place 12 grapes into their mouth. Each grape represents each stroke of the clock.

Make your plans now to stay at the El Palauet Living luxury hotel in Barcelona. Take in the rich culture and enjoy a traditional Christmas celebration.

Our travel concierge specialists can help you plan and book your Barcelona stay at the El Palauet Living hotel. We enjoy sharing unique travel ideas in our luxury blog.

Photo: El Palauet Living

Many people instantly respond to the traditional Christmas Markets in Germany. They are very popular during the holiday season and visitors travel from all around the world to enjoy them. Many are not aware that Italy also hosts their own. We would like to share five Italian Christmas Markets to consider.

If you are looking for an extraordinary VIP experience and travel to Italy for Christmas, then you need to make your plans now! There are still great travel deals available on short notice.

Fuoritinerario – Discover Your Italy is a boutique travel tour company that has a long history of of find off-the-beaten path opportunities. They have in depth knowledge of Italy and have offered to provide details on five Italian Christmas Markets.

These five Italian Christmas Markets provide tourist that chance to experience the rich culture of Italy. Enjoy great tasting food and drinks, plus a variety of products and souvenirs to purchase. Please take a look:

SANT’AGATA FELTRIA, EMILIA ROMAGNA (Now until December 20, 2016)
This medieval town is also known as Il Paese del Natale (the Christmas village). Its historic center becomes an enchanted place with the traditional sounds of bagpipes and handcrafted nativity on display all along the narrow alleys as well as in the Fregoso Fortress which dates back to 1000 AD. The market square hosts Santa’s home (reindeer included) and lots of fun activities for children organized by the elves!

CANDELARA, PESARO (Now until December 14, 2016)
Candele a Candelara, the Candelara candle light festival, is the first Italian Christmas market dedicated to candles. Apropos, since the name of this medieval town is derived from the Latin word for candle. During the celebration all electric lights go dark at fifteen minute intervals and the town glows only with candle light. Visitors can also wander through the town’s traditional Christmas market.

BOLZANO, SOUTH TYROL (Now until January 6, 2017)
Certainly the most renowned town in Italy known for hosting the country’s largest Christmas market or mercatini di Natale. For more than a month, the magnificently festooned Piazza Walther is filled with decorated stands, as well as the fragrance of cinnamon and mulled wine – making visitors feel as if they are in a fairytale.

AOSTA, AOSTA VALLEY (Now until January 6, 2017)
The Marché Vert Noël (Green Christmas Market) turns Aosta‘s Piazza Caveri into an alpine Christmas wonderland with twinkling lights, glimmering decorations, and adorned Christmas trees. Shoppers can browse handmade items including candles, holiday decorations, soaps, ceramics, wooden handicrafts and antique furniture, as well as clothing and accessories made from local wool, felt, hemp and lace.

MANAROLA, CINQUE TERRE (Now until February 1, 2017)
This lovely seaside town of the Cinque Terre hosts one of the most beautiful and original nativity scenes in the world – The Presepe di Manarola – with over 15,000 solar-powered light bulbs and 300 characters made from recycled or unused materials. Visitors can walk through a candy cane village, and take cooking classes preparing traditional Christmas dishes.

Discover Your Italy is owed by an Italian husband and wife team – Matteo Della Grazia and Daniela Mencarelli. Together they bring an enormous amount of travel knowledge and experience. Since 2007, they have become respected as experts in Italy travel. In addition to discovering the main attractions of Italy, get to know the cultural heart of this iconic country.

The Life of Luxury is available to help plan and book your luxury travel vacation. From visiting Italian Christmas Markets to gazing at the pyramids of Egypt to a romantic Mediterranean cruise, let us help. Stop by again to read our luxury blog for the latest luxury travel news and hot destinations. Our travel concierge team is available to assist.

For those spending Thanksgiving in Venice, Italy should not pass up an amazing opportunity to have your Thanksgiving dinner at the the luxury BAUERs Il Palazzo hotel.

This ultra-luxury hotel in romantic Venice, Italy is offering a fabulous American-style Thanksgiving dinner, created by Chef Hiraki Masakazu, the celebrated chef at the hotel’s De Pisis Restaurant.

The Thanksgiving dinner will be served on Thursday, November 24th and will offer patrons an incredible dinner menu that celebrates American Thanksgiving cuisine with an international flavor.

Visitors from all around Venice, Italy plus the world are invited to enjoy this delicious Thanksgiving feast. Make it a special holiday time with friends and family.

The luxury BAUERs Il Palazzo hotel is the ideal place to stay while in Venice. It’s an intimate boutique hotel, centrally located Venice. It offers a truly authentic, Venetian-style experience and overlooks the world famous Grand Canal.

Chef Masakazu initially started his career in Italy 12 years ago, when he left Tokyo to immerse himself in the history and culinary traditions of Italy. He is now the Executive Chef of De Pisis Restaurant, which serves the ultimate in fine dining.

The Thanksgiving will consist of baked ham glazed with apricots and mustard and, plus roast turkey stuffed with dried fruits. Who doesn’t love dessert. This fine meal will appropriately end with an American favorite – apple crumble.

Complete Thanksgiving Dinner Menu:
– Baked ham glazed with apricots and mustard
– Chestnuts soup flavored with Brandy
– Roast turkey stuffed with dried fruits, pepper corn, roast sweet potatoes and blueberry sauce
– Pecan cake with ginger ice cream
– Petits fours

Price is Euro 90.00 and VAT included. Please note that beverages are excluded.

The Il Palazzo hotel is nearby St. Mark’s Square and close to Venice’s finest shops, museums and various sightseeing spots.

This Venice landmark hotel is much more than a basic hotel. The BAUERs Il PalazzoIt’s both elegant and luxurious and features a stunning Gothic facade.

If you would like to enjoy this amazing Thanksgiving dinner at the BAUERs Il Palazzo in Venice, Italy, then please contact The Life of Luxury. We can handle all of your travel arrangements.

El Palauet Living (or “Little Palace” in Catalan) is a boutique design hotel home to only six stunning 2-bedroom suites. The is actually inside a landmark building in the heart of Gracia, a charming village-like neighborhood in the progressive city of Barcelona. Built with the utmost attention to detail in design and service, this unique property has quickly become the hotel of choice. As a result, it’s perfect for luxury travelers seeking a true home away from home in bustling city of Barcelona.

El Palauet Living hotel is now celebrating its 5-year anniversary. You can find this luxury hotel on the Passeig de Gracia. It’s a wide, tree-lined avenue flanked by architectural treasures, including the El Palauet building itself. In addition, the hotel was designed by renowned architect Pere Falqués, who also designed the ornate benches and streetlights that line the boulevard outside.

Opened in 2011, the luxury hotel is situated among the Passeig’s numerous Modernisme (the Catalan version of Art Nouveau) architected buildings, small cafes, bars, and independent clothing boutiques of the bohemian neighborhood. As a result, the hotel’s charming surroundings only add to the homelike feel of any stay at El Palauet. The actual building the El Palauet Living is inside of has beginnings dating back to 1906. Renowned Spanish architect Pere Falqués both designed and built the building.

Discerning travelers are always searching for a unique property to stay during their vacation or holiday. As a result, some like older architecture and a rich history. Others like the vibe from a modern, contemporary hotel. Barcelona, Spain is a marvelous city, rich in history and Spanish culture.

Barcelona is situated on the scenic, Mediterranean coast of Catalonia. The thriving city has a population of about 1.5 million people. Therefore, Barcelona is a top destination in Europe for travelers. Enjoy wonderful food and sports lovers cheer on their favorite football (soccer) teams. Culture abounds with fabulous museums and historic buildings.

For travelers who want to experience the best Barcelona has to offer, be sure to see La Sagrada Familia church, Las Ramblas street, Picasso Museum Barcelona, Magic Fountain show, Barrio Gotico area, Montjuic hill, Poble Espanyol Spanish village, Tibidabo hill, Modernist Park Guell by Gaudi and FC Barcelona museum & Camp Nou stadium, to name a few. It’s a fabulous city and must be visited at each once in a person’s lifetime.

Guests staying at this all-suite hotel will enjoy six large 1,600 square foot apartment suites. The offer outdoor space, along with personalized guest services, as well as on-call personal assistants. Be treated to luxury amenities during your stay.

Each suite at the El Palauet Living hotel has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Therefore, each can accommodate up to four guests. You will be pleased to discover the suites provide plenty of closet and shelving space. In addition, there is iPad-controlled mood lighting, plus temperature, and sound systems. The result is guests are thoroughly pleased with the their luxury accommodations.

Plan your next vacation to Barcelona, Spain and stay at the El Palauet Living hotel. The Life of Luxury can help you plan your travel itinerary. Return again and follow this luxury blog.

Photo: El Palauet Living

Almost everybody loves chocolate. As a result, when going on a vacation or business trip, chocolate connoisseurs search out the best chocolate. It makes a perfect gift or to be consumed when you return home. A visit to the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany is a must.

The Chocolate Museum (Schokoladen Museum) was first opened in 1993. It is a popular place to visit in Köln or Cologn, Germany. The museum sits on the banks of the iconic Rhine River, near the stunning Cologne Cathedral. The museum looks like a might, metal and glass ship. Inside is a treasure to many – lots of delicious chocolate!

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne consists of nine different exhibition areas. It covers about 4,000 square meters in size. Visitors will gain an appreciation of chocolate production as well as learn the long history of cocoa. From the days of the Olmecs, Mayas and Aztecs to modern times, it’s a wonderful journey.

Be sure to check out the tropicarium. It’s a large glass house where you can view live cacao trees. This visual helps many people better understand where the cocoa bean and where chocolate starts from. See various chocolate molds and machines that can make chocolate bars.

There are numerous, guided tours available for adults, children, school classes, as well as persons with disabilities. For example, there are 5 different adult tours to choose from:
– From the Cocoa to the Chocolate
– 100% Chocolate – guided tour with tasting
– Brown Gold – a sweet temptation
– Temptation to Pleasure
– Cocoa – Global good, stored locally! Sustainable cultivation and fair trade

Back in In 2006, the popular Lindt chocolate company became a partner at the Chocolate Museum. When you walk around, you’ll notice the majority of chocolates on display and sold is from Lindt.

First of all, the top attraction for almost everybody who visits, is the chocolate fountain. The chocolate fountain is 3 meters high and a stunning, visual sight. The fountain can hold up to 200 kilos of beautiful, liquid chocolate. It’s warm and looks mouth watering. Museum employees actually dip waffle cookie (wafer) into the fountain to hand out to many anxious people. Therefore as you can imagine, it puts a smile on many faces.

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne is open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 – 18:00 hours plus Saturday, Sunday and German bank holidays from 11:00 – 19:00 hours.

If you are considering a trip to Germany, be sure to visit the Chocolate Museum in Cologne. The Life of Luxury can assist planning and booking your luxury vacation. Come back soon to read our blog for more, sightseeing hot spots.

Photo: Chocolate Museum

Located in the middle of Paris’ active business district, the luxury Meliá Paris La Défense hotel adds elegance to the busy business district of Paris, France. Owned by Meliá Hotels International, Meliá Paris La Défense has become the biggest, four-star hotel that has opened in Paris in ten years.

Paris is known for its incredible landmarks. From this new luxury hotel, enjoy amazing views from your room – including the famous Eiffel Tower. There are 369 guest rooms in total. Included in this number are 29 luxury suites. The hotel is 19 stories high, with guest rooms on the first 18 floors Offering luxury accommodations to both business and leisure travel, the hotel is a perfect choice to enjoy the best Paris has to offer.

For a fine dining experience, be sure to book a reservation at Le Miroir restaurant. Gazing out of the restaurant’s windows, take in views of the Greek artist Takis’ “Bright Trees” exhibit, plus Esplanade water mirror fountain. As you scan the meal menu, you’ll notice enticing entree choices consisting of a delicate fusion of Spanish tradition and international cuisines.

The other restuarant at Meliá Paris La Défense is named The Place lobby bar & lounge. This eating establishment can be found on hotel’s ground floor. Compared to Le Miroir, this restaurant is rather casual. To take advantage of the outdoor terrace, dine with friends, family or business associates in a relaxing environment.

The architectural design of this Parisian hotel takes the shape of the sail of a boat. The clever design was created by Vasconi Architects, in collaboration with Jean-Phillipe Nuel, who is a respected French interior designer.

Due to its central location in Paris’ business district, the hotel makes the perfect place to hold important business meetings or off-site meetings. The event space at the hotel covers greater than 2,775 square feet. In total, there are 8 conference rooms. Between the entire space, the hotel can accommodate up to 400 people at a time. The area is equipped with WiFi, in addition to high-end audio-visual equipment.

After a busy day sightseeing or wrapping up that important meeting, be sure to head up to the 19th floor. You will find the Skyline Paris Lounge & Bar. This fun establishment offers tremendous Paris views. Enjoy a night of the best DJs as well as live music. Kick back and socialize with great tasting cocktails and delicious appetizers.

The luxury hotel has an endless list of luxury amenities to make your stay memorable. The hotel staff is attentive and very professional. THE LEVEL is the hotel’s signature service. Enjoy express check-in, a private lounge, a full breakfast buffet each morning, tea in the afternoon plus cocktails after dinner.

When it’s time to retire to your guest room for the night, you’re in luck. The rooms are both spacious and modern, plus very well maintained. Each room features an en-suite bathroom that comes with a rain shower. The beds are oh so comfortable and fitted with superior-quality linens. A perfect recipe for a great night’s sleep. If you want to a little TV and catch a movie or show, each room has its own flat-screen satellite television.

There is so much to see and do in Paris. Be sure to get out and enjoy this magical city, widely known as “The City of Light”. Be sure to visit the iconic Eiffel Tower River, Gothic Notre-Dame cathedral, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre museum, Jardin du Luxembourg, Sacré-Coeur basilica, Montmartre, Place de la Concorde, Versailles Palace, Moulin Rouge, Musée d’Orsay, Panthéon, Palais Royal and so much more! Be sure to plan enough time because Paris has so much to offer visitors to this wonderful European city and capital of France.

The Life of Luxury invites you to discover Paris and stay at the Meliá Paris La Défense hotel. Our vacation specialists can assist your Paris trip. Return to this luxury for the best in luxury travel.

Photo: Meliá Paris La Défense

The incredible Swiss Alps are wonderful to visit anytime of the year. If you do decide to travel to Switzerland, a stay at a Verbier chalet is a must. Verbier is a village situated in the south-western corner of Switzerland. The border of France is to the west and Italy to the south. Verbier resides at an elevation of about 1,500 meters high.

The Verbier chalet offers elegance and an impressive interior decor. Built in 2008, this Swiss chalet is located on the outskirts of Verbier, but close to the town’s center. This quaint village is a vacationers dream. Stunning views of the Alps are at every turn.

The three story chalet is spacious and features accommodations totaling 4 bedrooms. 3 of those bedrooms are convenient en-suites. The chalet can sleep up to 8 people. Located on the luxury Verbier chalet’s top floor is the master bedroom. It has an en-suite bathroom and roomy dressing area. Step out and take in the awesome views of the nearby rural pastures and Alps from the bedroom’s own private balcony.

Also on the top floor is a comfortable twin bedroom. It has an adjacent shower room. On the first floor, you will find 2 additional bedrooms. One has a queen bed and the other with twin beds. Both of these first floor bedrooms come with an en-suite. All beds in the 4 bedrooms are fitted with luxurious, White Company bed linen.

There are a total of 4 bathrooms, including 3 en-suites plus as separate bathroom. There’s also an additional W.C. on the lower floor of the luxury chalet. To match the bed linen, White Company towels can be found in all of the property’s bathrooms.

The primary living and dining area is located on the second or middle floor of the Verbier chalet. It’s an open plan that provides plenty of room for your family and guests. From the middle floor, you can go out onto either expansive balcony or terrace. Take time to soak in the 360 degree views of the Swiss Alps. Anytime of the year, it’s a magical VIP experience! For entertainment purpose, the Verbier chalet is equipped with an awesome Bose Home Entertainment System plus large LCD TV. Perfect for relaxing and watching a TV show or sporting event. In addition, select from a variety of your favorite videos for all ages, from the chalet’s own collection. Another nice feature is that all the bedrooms include iPod docking stations.

Verbier is a an amazing, year round destination. There is so much to do and see in this village and its surrounding area. During the popular winter months, the town really comes alive. Verbier is part of whats commonly known as the “Four Valleys” ski area. The three others are Nendaz, Thyon and Veysonnaz. Enjoy tremendous, world-class skiing and snowboarding for all skill levels.

During the balance of the year, enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including – hiking, golfing cycling and swimming. At the nearby Verbier sport centre, there’s an indoor as well as outdoor swimming pools. Get fit playing tennis or using the exercise facility. After a busy day, relax and unwind at the luxury sauna. There are plenty more things to do for both children and adults.

Make your next luxury vacation a memorable one. Plan a trip to Switzerland and stay at this luxury Verbier Chalet. Our travel specialists can assist you with all of your itinerary details. Return again soon to follow this luxury blog for the latest travel industry news.

Italy has long been a popular choice for travelers. The European country is rich in both history and culture. We wanted to share 4 amazing culinary experiences in Italy. Don’t settle for seeing only the sights that hordes of tourists flock to. Immerse yourself in the best Italy has to offer.

Fuoritinerario – Discover Your Italy is a well respected, travel company that is located in Perugia, Italy. They take pride in creating authentic excursions and the chance to see the true “Italian’s Italy.” Fuoritinerario is now offering 4 amazing culinary experiences that will delight your culinary desires. These exclusive travel packages offer a unique way to enjoy wonderful Italian food, plus take part in cooking classes.

For a once in a lifetime treat, these new culinary travel packages provide the opportunity to explore the canals of Venice, enjoy open air-dining in the streets of Siena and see the historic palazzos by the sea in Sicily. It’s a cultural experience you don’t want to miss.

Sicilian Cooking Traditions Revealed in a 19th Century Sicilian Kitchen (Catania photo above)
The sea meets the mountains in Catania’s authentic recipes featuring an incredible variety of dishes and flavors that spring from the cultural melting pot that is Sicilian fare. Guests who seek to learn more about Sicily’s culinary fusion can embark on a gastronomical adventure beginning with a guided tour of Pescheria (the traditional fish market). After purchasing local ingredients, head to a stunning 19th century kitchen of the Catania Historical Society for a cooking class where traditional dishes, such as spaghetti rolls alla Norma, pasta with squid ink and ricotta cheese or with anchovies and wild fennel, fish meatballs (whitebait), caponata, cannolo or the so-called “St. Agatha’s breasts” will be prepared and savored.

Dine in the Streets of Siena During the Palio with a Contrada
Twice a year, the 17 districts or contrade of Siena compete against each other in the world-renown race, the Palio di Siena. On the next race day s – August 16, guests will enjoy the thrilling atmosphere of the Palio Horse Race in Siena and dine with one of the district teams in the afternoon. Belissimo! Prior to the race, guests will assist with the medieval parade that showcases all the teams in their colorful dress and, of course, the beautiful horses. Later, after guests catch their breath from watching the legendary horse-race, they will join one of the contradas for their open air dinner – hopefully it is the winning district!

Live Like a Royal: Attend a Gala at a Venetian Palace
For one night in Venice, guests will live the life of a noble Venetian aristocrat as they are whisked away aboard a private water taxi to a gala dinner set in a palace overlooking the Grand Canal. It will be an evening of total sensory experiences while guests linger over cocktails and dinner in this extremely unique historic mansion that has welcomed a legendary A-List from today’s Hollywood set to the Doges of Venice and Italian Nobility.

Cooking by the Sea in Sicily with The Duchess
This is not a simple cooking lesson in an 18th century palazzo by the sea. It’s a fascinating journey through Sicilian culture and food. Rise early, meet ‘The Duchess’ and follow her through a colorful local market to buy the seasons freshest ingredients. Throughout her tour, The Dutchess will share hidden treasures of Palermo, one of the most intriguing cities of the Mediterranean. In the spacious and historic kitchen at her palazzo, guests will learn to cook a whole Sicilian menu under The Duchess’ guidance. After lunch in the elegant dining room, enjoy a tour of the lush terrace and the beautifully restored palazzo, the last home of Prince Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa, author of the world-famous novel The Leopard.

Has Italy been on your Bucket List as a lifetime dream destination? Then consider making plans and booking one of these incredible travel itineraries. Visit this fascinating country and see some of the most amazing historical landmarks in the world.

Contact The Life of Luxury if interested in booking one of the above, amazing culinary experiences in Italy. Our travel specialists can help plan your next luxury vacation, anywhere in the world. Stop by soon and follow this lxuury blog. Keep up on the latest travel trends and news.

Photo: Fuoritinerario – Discover Your Italy