SMART LUXURY

The modern traveler is always in search of stylish places where to stay that offer a flexible and comfortable lifestyle without spending much. This is exactly what Vienna's Hotel Daniel is all about. They've come up with a concept they call "Smart Luxury", or contemporary hospitality with stylish minimalism. The heart and soul of the hotel is in the building it's situated in: the first building in Austria to be constructed using the revolutionary Curtain Wall technique (centrally located within walking distance tot he city centre). Their interior design concept is the polar opposite of heavy and sedate. It's a seductive and effortless mix of styles with a dash of warmth that makes it quite homey. All 115 rooms look super comfy, especially the ones with a delish hammock in the middle of the room to relax in after a long day in town. I'll definitely keep The Daniel in mind if I ever go back to Vienna.

Spotted in Ideas to Steal

BEAUTY FROM ASHES

The phoenix is a mythical bird that has always been a symbol of renewal for its ability to be reborn from its own ashes. Believe or not, this gorgeous hotel in Portugal has a lot in common with this famous creature, as it was revived after a fatal fire almost burned the original building to the ground. Casa do Conto, or House of Tales, was fully rehabilitated after that unfortunate event giving rise to this unique hotel. During its rehabilitation, the architects tried to save as much as they could from the original structure, keeping some of the historical features intact. Some of the hotel's most unique features are the various texts engraved on the ceilings of some of the rooms, transforming an architectural element frequently neglected into focal points and great pieces of art. I wish more beautiful things like these would emerge from tragedies.

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These Walls Can Talk

Traveling is a way for people to keep abreast of other cultures and their history. It's all about getting in touch with their past and present. On my trip to Budapest last Fall, I had the chance to learn more about Hungary's two terror regimes: the Nazi during WWII and the 40-year communist regime. One of the most impressive sites I visited was the Terror Háza Múseum, or the House of Terror Museum. The museum is a monument to the memory of those held captive, tortured and killed in this building. While presenting the horrors in a tangible manner, it also intends to make people understand that the sacrifices that were made for freedom were not in vain. Fully renovated inside and out, the building manifests power and has a rather monumental presence. The external façade, the internal design and the impeccable look of the exhibitions are the works of Hungarian architect Attila F. Kovács. I was extremely impressed, and touched, to see how exceptionally they presented such a horrific and disturbing subject matter. Unfortunately, I was not allowed to photograph many of the interior galleries, but I urge you to take a peek at some of their photos here. Although reluctant at first, I'm glad I went to this museum. It made my visit to this stunning city even more significant. I definitely recommend it.

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A Feast For The Eyes

Style, distinction, warmth and personality are the four main ingredients to the newly opened boutique hotel in Paris' 8th Arrondissement. Interior designer François Champsaur was the creative mind behind the redesigned interiors of the stunning Hôtel du Ministère, just five minutes walk from the famous Champs Elysées. His choice of materials is delightful, especially the mix of wood, marble, rich fabrics and very graphic carpet that gives just the right touch of fun. Paris anyone?

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Camping Above The Clouds

If your idea for a relaxing getaway is to be isolated from everything and completely surrounded by nature, the Endemico Resguardo Sylvestre, from Grupo Habita, was conceived with people like you in mind. Set on the mountains of Mexico's Valle de Guadalupe, these 20 stunning ecolofts were sustainably designed by San Diego-based Gracia Studio. Each hut is strategically placed on the mountain slopes so guests can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mexican wine country, especially from their private patios. The cabins are minimally decorated in black and white with an uncomplicated vibe, but have everything you might need to make the most of your stylish camping adventure.

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This Is An Alaïa

This fabulous Parisian hotel goes beyond boutique. World renowned fashion designer and '80s icon Azzedine Alaïa has converted three 1080 square-feet flats right next to his own studio, shop and warehouse into large full-floor apartment-style suites. Located in the trendy Marais district, the small hotel was designed by Alaïa himself with all the comforts of a home to offer his guests the true essence of everyday Parisian lifestyle — each with its own private entrance. The interiors are divine, just like his collections, with a decor that combines furnishings from past and present. Since the building is right next to his flagship store, guests can snoop out of the back window into his busy atelier.

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Dreaming in Fashion

There is a fine line between fashion and interior design. They're both about proportions, textures, colors and great imagination. Such is the case in Amsterdam's new Hotel The Exchange, where both disciplines meet in the most unexpected and inspiring ways. All of the 61 rooms have been designed and dressed by graduates and alumni of the Amsterdam Fashion Institute, turning ordinary hotel rooms into diverse and inspiring spaces—like the neighborhood the hotel is located in. If you're a romantic at heart, you can stay in a Marie Antoinette-inspired room where a huge dress drapes over the walls and unto the bed. Or if you're more of a minimalist, then opt for a room that is based on the old fairy tale of the Emperor’s New Clothes. Either way, you're guaranteed to have an exceptional stay at The Exchange. Having worked on both fields of the design industry, I would definitely love to experience this place next time I visit the Dutch capital.

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Holiday Giving: Chapter Four

I don't know about you, but I'm already exhausted trying to find the right presents for my loved ones. I find that presents made by people who care about our earth's well being are always a great choice—and a very appreciated one. So I've put together a collection of eco-friendly gifts that will make your Holidays a little greener. Happy shopping!

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