STEENBERG HOTEL, SOUTH AFRICA

What do you call a hotel that looks more picturesque than the most beautiful painting, anticipates your needs and requests before you even do, and makes you feel as though you're living in a dream? The Steenberg, that's what you call it. This delightful slice of heaven in the heart of the Constantia wine valley in South Africa overwhelmes you upon arrival, with just the greenery and brilliance of their perfectly manicured grounds. As you amble slowly down the pathways, you discover vineyards, a golf course, friendly faces walking the grounds, and the most charming milk-white Cape Colonial-style structures whose exteriors have been painstakingly and carefully maintained in original fashion dating back to the 1600's. The Steenberg's serene atmosphere makes it impossible not to feel as though you are truly relaxed, with time on your hands. Time to walk the grounds, time to indulge in the luxurious spa or enjoy a complimentary wine tasting, time to laze by the quizzically modern yet comfortable pool area- and the supremely helpful staff make you feel completely at home. What's most special about this property are their 3 Heritage Suites- incredibly grand, individually styled villa homes that you can opt for. Ideal for a small group or those that just want to feel completely secluded, these suites come with the services of a butler, have impossibly equipped kitchens, spacious rooms and their own unique touches. Our choice is the Khoi Khoi suite, where you'll find things like a stream-like fountain running through your room, or a plasma TV that doubles as a mirror and curious yet cool artwork. Plus, it's just a short 20 minute drive to Cape Town so you've really got the best of all worlds, in one world- the Steenberg world. Trust us, this one is not to be missed...
Exclusive Hotels Recommendation by thExplorateur in South Africa.
 

RUMILOMA LODGE- QUITO, ECUADOR

You may have heard of climbing a volcano, driving up the side of a volcano, or even watching one erupt... but have you ever considered sleeping on one? Odd thought, we know...but trust us, after you see the luxurious mountain oasis known as Rumiloma Lodge, you'll wonder why you never thought of it before. Miles in the sky above bustling Quito, lies the most perfect haven, complete with one of the best restaurants in the area serving Ecuadorian-influenced fusion cuisine and enclosed in windows proffering the most exquisite vistas. Step up a few stairs (after you get acclimatized of course), and you'll find just a tiny handful of the most enchanting suites gracing the hillside, which are decorated in such a way that you have to imagine that somehow, a magic wand must have been used in the process. Traditional wood carved furniture, brilliantly colored fabrics, mosaic-lined sinks, curiously styled copper pot-like bathtubs, and absolutely NO TVs. Unique antiques seem to jump out at you to say a friendly hello at every corner and turn and the staff is as present as you wish them to be, and as discreet and quiet as you wish them to be as well. The charming couple that owns Rumiloma maintain a solid commitment to sustainable tourism and community outreach. Rest assured, most of the food, flora & fauna, and even decor for the rooms are purchased in local villages and measures to protect clean water and the flourishing surrounding forests are basic and standard at this fluid and unique operation. At 600 square feet apiece, it's tempting to get lost in the coziness of the suites above the clouds, and to feel miles from anywhere in the world.

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