GLOBAL GHOULS + GOBLINS

Crescent Hotel- Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Many refer to this as the "most haunted hotel" in the US and from the countless testimonials from guests, it's easy to see why. This hotel-turned-cancer-research-hospital-turned-back-to-hotel is where many in the past have met their demise, beginning with the construction worker in the 1800's who fell from the roof right outside famed Room 218 that is supposedly the most haunted. Visitors report sightings of distinguished gentlemen sitting in the lobby, to a nurse rolling a gurney, slamming doors at random, and everythign in between. A visit from "Ghost Hunters" has ensured its street cred as officially haunted as those experts concur, there's something not quite right about this place.

Hotel Burchianti- Florence, Italy

Guests and regular patrons have claimed to have seen visions of a child skipping down the hallway, as well as an elderly woman knitting in a chair. Passersby the hotel's Fresco room report feeling an icy breath sensation. Talk about a cold reception...

The Russell Hotel- Sydney, Australia

No matter how hidden away this hotel may be in the Rocks next to Circular Quay in Sydney, guests have reported seeing the ghost of an ancient sailor. Room 8 is known to be the most haunted, where guests have reported the old man wandering the halls and standing over them while they sleep. Staff denies it, yet they still sell ghost tours on property... hmm...

Castle Leslie- Glaslough, County Monaghan, Ireland

You won't find phones, televisions or radios in this Castle dating back to 1665, but you will find an array of gourmet meals due to teh cooking school on sight, and if you're one of the chosen few, you'll also be treated to a visit from the other world. Departed members of the original Leslie clan are reported to pitch up often, especially in the well known Norman's Room, named for the spirit that haunts it. Rumor has it his mother was sleeping in this room and awoke to see her deceased son sifting through letters before fading away. Better bring your Lucky Charms.

Toftaholm Herrgard- Toftaholm, Sweden

A broken heart long ago was the catalyst to all things haunted here at this private home-turned-boutique-hotel. Legend has it a young peasant boy fell in love with a baron's daughter, and he forbid them to wed (natch). The daughter was then forced into an arranged marraige and hence, the boy was found hanging in what is now room 324, it is reported that his spirit remains there to this day. Swedishly scary...

Grand Hyatt Taipei- Taipei, Taiwan

A luxurious hotel today, but once the site of a wartime political prison and ever since, it's believed to have been home to a number of ghosts ever since. To combat the evil spirits, a Chinese sutra has been placed in the hotel's entrance.

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KRISTIANIA LECH-To be a guest of the Kristiania Lech is to be swept into a world of gracious Alpine tradition blended with a surprisingly splendid modern twist. This family-owned boutique hotel has developed an incredibly keen sense of consistency and atmosphere that has continually drawn ski-lovers in for decades, with its curiously simplistic yet luxurious undertones and infectious charm. Equally as stunning in summer as it is in winter, this is a monument of old world charm fused with modern design, reinvigorating spa elements and gourmet cuisine that would rival some of Europe’s finest restaurants.

Each of the 29 showpiece rooms houses their own stunning collection of contemporary art and authentic antiques, inspiring a feeling akin to living within your own private collection space adorned with warm Alpine touches or hip décor- evoking a sense of private residence rather than hotel room. The comfort factor is incredible, topped only by the crisp clean lines of the mountain views in the distance awaiting your visit.

Whilst dining in one of the three dining rooms, guests are treated to impeccable service and gorgeous views of modern creative works of art, antique pieces, fresh flowers and graceful table linens while refined dishes and delights are enjoyed by the fireplace.

This place of privilege and pampering is truly all about the service. Guests can take advantage of a variety of services, including a personal ski concierge and boot butler who will suit you up and design the perfect itinerary, a reading butler to personalize one’s holiday book collection, a bath butler to prepare the perfect bath spa experience, private nanny, a Lifestyle service attendant who will chauffer you in a Maybach or unpack your suitcase, an in-room spa treatment therapist, and even a pet concierge to assist with all things canine and feline.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- 5th night free on midweek stays plus complimentary wi-fi, breakfast, and dinner daily! Email us at info@theexplorateurportfolio.com for more information and as always, be sure and tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

HOTEL BYRON-Forte dei Marmi, Italy
When it comes to grace and tradition, the Hotel Byron sits proudly at the top of that list, consistently retaining its inherent charming allure, intimate mood and refined elegance not easily found elsewhere. This 5-star luxury retreat is set in the heart of Forte de Marmi, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, verdant private gardens and beautifully graced with the Alps in its background. Hotel Byron is an homage to years past, to those that have left their signs, echoes and imprints still evident today.

The villa which houses the retreat was commissioned during the first half of the last century by José “Pepito” Caferino Canevaro Duke of Zoagli, as a family holiday residence. It has since stood the test of time, serving as an elegant escape for diplomats, noblemen, businessmen, artists and celebrities from the 18th Century onwards with an inherent welcoming spirit. The original features have been carefully maintained, and the décor reflects the commitment to the preservation of this piece of history.

Each of the 29 bedrooms and suites all overlook either the beach or the Alps, personally decorated by the owner whose favored art nouveau furnishings, yellow and green stained glass, floral lamps and bay windows with upholstered yellow seats that enrich the elegant environment. Outside, the hotel is embraced by fragrant and vibrantly colorful plants and flowers, making it feel as though you’ve arrived at your own private residence where you can enjoy the delightful swimming pool, relax with a creative libation at the hotel’s bar overlooking the garden, or engage in a game of tennis on property.

As if the surroundings weren’t fabulous enough, the glimmering gorgeous beach is just steps from Hotel Byron’s doorstep, along with horseback riding and an 18-hole golf course. La Magnolia, the property’s centerpiece restaurant, consistently delivers impeccable cuisine served in traditional style (poolside service available in the summer months), complemented by an incredible selection of Italian and French wines. La dolce vita indeed…

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary room upgrade, bottle of sparkling wine in room upon arrival and one 2-course light lunch during your stay. Click HERE for more info and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

AMEDEI CHOCOLATIER- Tuscany

If you're anything like us, you once wished that you could have been one of those lucky Golden Ticket-winning kids that got to explore Willy Wonka's factory in one of the most memorable movies of all time. (OK, we still have that fantasy but so what!). Well, now's your chance to get as Wonkified as possible. Amedei has opened its doors to chocolate connoisseurs who can indulge Augustus Gloop-style for hours on end.

For those that want to immerse themselves in a magical chocolate atmosphere, Amedei of Tuscany takes chocolate fans through the journey from the bean source through the complete creation of each distinctively crafted product...tasting all of the chocolate and pralines along the way. The tour allows you to follow the entire production of the refined Amedei chocolates, from granules to cocoa to decadently delightful treats. Amedei follows the emotions that transform chocolate into a precious delight that evokes childhood memories and an instant satisfaction of the senses. You're already indulging in amazing food whilst in Italy, top it off with something sweet and special.

Our pick? The Ultimate Journey, where you'll be treated to robust tastings of Crema Toscana which will put Nutella to shame, Toscano Brown milk chocolate and the Blond, crafted with peaches and apricots. If that wasn't enough, the Toscano Red will be rolled out, filled with berries, extra dark award-winning Madagascar, Jamaica and Trinidad blends. Move on to the pure Creole style Porcelana, a steaming cup of hot chocolate, 5 flavors of praline and top it off with an Incontro, rich with chunky hazelnuts. 2 ½ hours of chocolate bliss. Tours run Monday to Friday, 9A - 5:30P and run with a minimum of 4 people. Oh, just go for it.

www.amedei.it

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Sweet savings! Take the Ultimate Journey for 120 Euro per person. Click HERE for more info and, as always,