Leading Hotels of the World
The Leading Hotels of the World began in 1928 as The Leading Hotels of Europe, when 38 hoteliers joined forces to court wealthy American travellers. By 1930 it had become The Leading Hotels of Europe and Egypt, and it took its present name in 1978. It grows by recommendation: a new hotel must be referred by an existing member, and the society keeps the bar high with strict, regular inspections of more than 800 points. These are my stories from its hotels.
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Hotel loyalty programmes with benefits beyond points
Room upgrades, late departures, lounge access and more: how free and paid hotel memberships compare, and what it takes to receive their benefits.
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Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa
Royal Champagne above Épernay: rooms overlooking the vines, Le Royal restaurant, a generous spa, and memories of a celebration that began early.
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Tortuga Bay: The Beach They Kept
Thirteen beachfront villas, Oscar de la Renta’s design heritage, and the freedom to enjoy Puntacana’s golf courses, spa and seaside restaurants.
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Marquis Los Cabos: mornings by the Sea of Cortez
My Marquis Los Cabos review: ocean-facing rooms, quiet dawns and infinity pools, with Mexican food, art, wine and whale watching beyond the resort.