ARE YOU OUR NEXT EXPLORATEUR? We're always telling you about the things we find most unique...and now, we want to give you a chance to tell your own stories to our amazing like-minded readers that share a passion for unique travel experiences as a guest blogger! If you're thinking about being a travel blogger, or dreaming about being a travel writer then send us a sample story. Subject? Well, that's up to you- perhaps you wish to share your most memorable (or most quirky) experience, give readers a glimpse into a hidden gem that nobody knows about but you, or even share a review about a travel product or experience that you found ultra-fabulous. We'll run the 2 most intriguing stories and cross promote them across Facebook & Twitter so here's your chance to shine. Email samples to info@theexplorateurportfolio.com - happy writing!   * The Explorateur does not pay for submissions, any entries or samples sent to editors are done so with the writer's understanding that there is no compensation. The Explorateur will request writer's permission in writing to publish stories before anything is run live.

LONDON HILTON PARK LANE- SECRET AGENT PACKAGE To know me is to know my absolute obsession with all-things-Bond. James Bond. Those incredible international settings, those intriguing accents that sound beautiful but are impossible to place, the suspense, the action, the evil but laughable villains, and the glam. I was hooked long ago and I believe that's where my love affair with luxury hotels began. The prospect of living like a Bond girl in sheer opulence, even temporarily, is just something that never gets old, and only more exciting as I tackle new destinations. To all of my like-minded Explorateurs, here's a brilliant Bond option to ponder. Oh, and don't try to find me on the day of the Skyfall premiere...'I'll either be first in line at the theater or in this suite...   In honor of one of the world's most famous spies, the London Hilton on Park Lane has launched the "Spies the Limit" package, allowing guests to live the life of a true international man of mystery, if only just for the night. Indulge in an overnight stay in the stunning Penthouse Suite, topped off with an evening at celebrity haunt Whisky Mist for a martini or two, and exclusive access to the Executive Lounge. And, by Penthouse Suite we're talking absolute Bond style in every aspect- 125m² in size with amazing views of Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace, ultra-sleek gadgetry that even Q would be proud of, including an automatic door closer, bespoke lighting system to set the mood, a TV set inside a mirror and even a jacuzzi complete with colored light effects. Spy friendly indeed. The opulence of the suite is truly something out of any Bond film with the typical to-die-for views only found in movies and a private balcony to enjoy them on, swanky study for use when work actually needs to get done, and butler service which can be added on (naturally) as what self-respecting spy wouldn't have one on hand?   Prices start at £3,007 per room for two, valid for travel through 30 Nov 12. reservations.parklane@hilton.com for info and be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

DAR DARMA- Marrakech, Morocco

Amidst the sanctuary that is Dar Darma, the word "no" simply does not exist. Your wish is their command, truly, at this private, casually chic private retreat that takes personal service to an elevated level. Carefully restored and thoughtfully preserved, this 18th century treasure is positioned beautifully in the heart of the Old Quarter, just steps from the Museum of Marrakech and the bustling Jemaa El Fna.

Elegance, seclusion and discretion abound throughout, with a traditional Moroccan décor carrying through the space from the hand-painted wooden ceilings to the intricate ancient portals. All 4 lavish suites and 2 apartments are unique in décor and character, featuring fireplace, spacious bathroom and impossibly thoughtful accents in the form of traditional handcrafted Moroccan furnishings, intricately painted ceilings, richly woven carpets and vibrant fabrics. NB- The Mirror Suite is especially decadent, where opulent reflections seemingly infinitely enhance the size of the space.

All of the rooms overlook the 2 central courtyards, blending into the Moroccan lounge, Hall of Arches and the fireplace lounge, oases of relaxation amongst the accelerated pace of the city. Their traditional hammam is best enjoyed when blended with a signature spa treatment, while culinary delicacies are freshly prepared throughout the day for dining enjoyment at each guest's discretion. In case you can't get enough of the chef's fabulous creations, Dar Darma also organizes interactive cooking lessons with the culinary masters so you can not only participate and learn, but also take the recipes and memories back home with you.

Life happens at each individual guest's pace, for here, there are no specific times for breakfast, meals or check-out, no demands at all except for those of the guest which are catered to effortlessly. Daring, delicious, divine...Dar Darma.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival PLUS, stay 4 nights, pay for 3 or stay 7 nights, pay for 5 for travel on select dates in 2013. Connect with us for more info and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

MAGIC MOUNTAIN- CHILE When your only option of accessing a hotel is via a monkey bridge, you know you're on to something cleverly curious and magical, like the Magic Mountain. Set in the middle of a forest in the southern Huilo Huilo reserve, miles from any sort of civilization lies this entirely self-sufficient craggy mountainlike structure that houses this interesting lodge who gets its name from a mysterious place found only in a book that was beloved by the owners that was said to have magical powers and grant wishes. Not only is it entirely self sufficient (not that the location would permit them any other option), but for anyone looking to have a wish granted that somewhat relates to sleeping under a waterfall, yes, it does that too. At the top, water spews and cascades down the sides. At the sky, condors and eagles circle and call. At the ground, creatures lurk and at the comfort of your cozy room, you are ever more grateful to be several floors above land. Each of the thirteen rooms offer en-suite bathrooms and gorgeous forest (and trickling water) views, and are all named for various indigenous flora and fauna. Eleven cabins are also set nearby that can accommodate slightly larger groups. Traditional meals are served daily at the Meson del Bosque restaurant, where chefs prepare authentic homestyle Chilean recipes best paired with a great selection of local wines, or a traditional Pisco Sour. We recommend you use it sparingly. If the quirky architecture isn't enough to intrigue you, consider their amenities which are more like fantastic oddities. Hot tubs carved out of huge tree trunks, perched on decks proffering lush forest views. Or a mini golf course build into a walkway 40 feet in the air, that bobs and weaves through the trees, some of which have opted to grow straight through the plank. www.huilohuilo.com/alojamiento/montana-magica-lodge Massively magical...