The Global Shortlist

I was recently delighted to receive a copy of the 5th edition of 'The Global Shortlist' from Mr and Mrs Smith.

'The Global Shortlist' is a travel guide listing 30 most stylish boutique hotels around the world handpicked, reviewed and compiled in a lovely coffee table book by travel experts at Mr and Mrs Smith. In case you are wondering if this has anything to do with the infamous movie with Angelina and Brad, the answer is 'no'.

Conceived long before Brangelina, Mr and Mrs Smith is a boutique hotel specialists representing the coolest, sexiest and most intimate places to stay around the globe. I have always been a fan of boutique hotels and was naturally excited to find out about so many stylish and unique places introduced by Mr and Mrs Smith through 'The Global Shortlist' . The information is presented in a relaxed and interesting way with tons of alluring photographs that is bound to set you packing for your next holiday. Each page directs you to the best shops, best day trips and other things worth getting out of bed for like the secret advice you would get out of a trusted and well-travelled friend.

One place that I got to know of through this book and would love to visit one day is Castello di Vicarello , Tuscany.

Comprising of six suites, this 900 year old mediaval stone castle is set on a Tuscan hilltop among olive groves. I long to sit in one of their two infinity pools which offers unforgettable panoramic views of the valleys of Tuscany.

According to Mr & Mrs Smith, one should prepare to put on weight in this place as Aurora (the owner) cooks up a daily-changing menu of authentic homegrown, home-made Tuscan cuisine, served in the candlelit flower-filled courtyard in summer and by the fireside in winter.

Cooking classes and wine tasting can also be arranged at the hotel's kitchen if you are up for such domestic activities, besides hunting, fishing and horse back riding offered in nearby places.

And if you are looking for somewhere else unique to stay in Italy, La Mienervetta situated off a cliff in the Amalfi coast of Italy promises a stay (or view) you will not forget.

I love the clean visual lines with splashes of colour shown in these pictures. As evident, the view from your bed in this place is to die for. There are lots more recommended boutique hotels such as these in The Global Shortlist so if you are looking for a unique place to stay, you know where to turn to next time!

'The Global Shortlist 'is available here and here. Each copy of the book comes with a year's free membership with Mr & Mrs Smith that allows you to enjoy special privileges at every Smith hotel you book through them. Simply flash your Smith card at check-in to claim the offer featured on every hotel page.

Melbourne!

I am now in Melbourne, Australia. The weather is perfect and the people are really nice and friendly. Too bad I have still not completely recovered from my cold to enjoy much of the city. Am staying in a lovely and conveniently located boutique hotel called Hotel Charsfield. Definitely reccommend this place to anyone looking for a nice and reasonably priced accommodation in Melbourne.I missed the weekend buzz at the Queen Victoria Market and am really looking forward to visiting it once I get better!

(The image above is by Catherine Ledner. Living in California with a host of animals, Catherine is well known for her incredible animal photography that is beautifully taken against a gorgeous backdrop of coloured wallpaper. She has just launched her new site "Catherine's Animals" site with limited edition prints for sale. Do check it out! )