Behind the Lens

Don Oniego Jr. Don Oniego Jr.

The Innings of Alma San Diego: A Soulful Stay in the Heart of the Gaslamp

Nestled between San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter and vibrant Little Italy, Alma San Diego is a stylish boutique hotel that captures the city’s free-spirited soul. Combining laid-back Southern California charm with Mexican heritage and streetwise flair, this Tribute Portfolio by Marriott gem offers guests a boutique haven elevated by modern comfort, local energy, and heartfelt service.

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Villas Caracol: A Seaside Sanctuary of Chic Luxury

Villas Caracol is a boutique beachfront hotel on Holbox Island, Mexico, celebrated for its intimate, “petite” charm and serene island vibe. This 15‑room property sits directly on the white‑sand shore of Holbox, offering unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea. Guests describe the atmosphere as laid‑back and nature‑immersed – perfect for watching sunsets and stargazing under clear tropical skies. The hotel provides 24‑hour butler service and personalized attention, ensuring a truly relaxed holiday experience. Nestled amid lush tropical vegetation, Villas Caracol blends naturally into its environment: coral walls, palapas and wooden finishes echo the local landscape, while bright open spaces emphasize light, fresh ocean breezes.

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Whitepod Original: An Alpine Eco-Luxury Retreat

Whitepod Original perches high above Monthey in the Swiss canton of Valais, an “eco-luxury” hotel where geodesic pods and spacious cabins nestle into the mountain woods. Founded by entrepreneur Patrick Delarive (acquired in 2006 and meticulously refurbished over six years), the resort was designed to blend into nature – pods change color with the seasons (white in winter, green in summer) and stand on wooden stilts so the landscape remains virtually untouched. In this alpine clearing at 1,400 m, each moment is about adventure and relaxation: guests wake to sweeping sunrise vistas over the Rhone valley and spend days hiking, skiing or simply absorbing the fresh mountain air.

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Maisons du Monde Hôtel & Suites Marseille: A Stylish Home on the Old Port

Nestled on Marseille’s historic Old Port, Maisons du Monde Hôtel & Suites Marseille opened in January 2021 as the brand’s second hotel after Nantes. Its 62 rooms are fully furnished with Maisons du Monde décor, combining contemporary elegance with Provencal warmth. The ambience immediately feels cozy and friendly “just like home… but even better,” as the brand promises. Many rooms offer sweeping views over the harbor, including sights of the Old Port’s famous Ombrière canopy. This beautifully decorated hotel is ideally located for exploring Marseille’s waterfront and historic center, and from the moment you arrive the attentive staff and vibrant decor make you feel welcome and at ease.

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The Sunseeker Byron Bay: Retro Charm Meets Modern Consciousness in a Tropical Oasis

Tucked away on the fringe of Byron Bay, The Sunseeker is where the charm of the Northern Rivers meets the pleasure-seeking spirit of a life well-travelled. Once a classic 80s beachside motel, this 22-room boutique hotel has been thoughtfully reimagined—celebrating its original character while embracing playful design, modern comfort, and a warm sense of community.

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La Créole Beach Hôtel & Spa: A Tropical Haven of Creole Elegance in Guadeloupe

Nestled along the pristine shores of Grande-Terre in Gosier, Guadeloupe, La Créole Beach Hôtel & Spa offers an idyllic retreat where Creole charm meets modern luxury. Set amidst a lush tropical park adorned with palm trees, lilies, and hibiscus, this 4-star beachfront hotel provides guests with an unforgettable Caribbean experience. Its prime location not only offers breathtaking ocean views but also places guests within easy reach of local attractions and the vibrant culture of the French West Indies.

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Jiva Hill Resort: Where Alpine Elegance Meets Contemporary Luxury Near Geneva

Nestled at the foot of the Jura Mountains, just a 10-minute drive from Geneva International Airport, Jiva Hill Resort offers a serene escape on a 123-acre private estate. This five-star Relais & Châteaux property seamlessly blends modern architecture with natural beauty, providing guests with panoramic views of Mont Blanc and a tranquil environment that feels worlds away from the city's hustle. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a corporate retreat, Jiva Hill Resort delivers an unparalleled experience in the heart of nature.

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InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu: A Historic Landmark Reimagined for Modern Luxury

Perched atop the historic Panier district, the InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu stands as a testament to Marseille's rich heritage and contemporary elegance. Originally an 18th-century hospital, this grand edifice has been meticulously transformed into a five-star hotel, offering panoramic views of the Vieux-Port and the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde. With its blend of historical architecture and modern design, the hotel provides guests with an unparalleled experience in the heart of Provence.

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The Inside House: A Serene Lanna Colonial Retreat in Chiang Mai's Historic Heart

Nestled within the ancient walls of Chiang Mai's Old City, The Inside House offers a tranquil escape that seamlessly blends Lanna colonial architecture with contemporary luxury. This boutique hotel, located on Samlarn Road, is renowned for its serene ambiance, personalized service, and proximity to cultural landmarks like Wat Phra Singh and the Sunday Walking Street Market.

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Raya Heritage: A Riverside Sanctuary of Artisanal Elegance in Chiang Mai

Tucked along the tranquil banks of the Ping River, just 20 minutes north of Chiang Mai’s historic center, Raya Heritage offers a serene escape that seamlessly blends contemporary luxury with the rich cultural tapestry of northern Thailand. This boutique retreat, comprising 38 spacious suites set amidst lush gardens, draws inspiration from the region's Lanna heritage, showcasing handcrafted furnishings and traditional artistry throughout its design.

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Sooknirund Hotel: A Timeless Boutique Retreat in the Heart of Chiang Rai

Nestled in the vibrant center of Chiang Rai, Sooknirund Hotel stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of historical charm and modern luxury. With over 50 years of heritage, this boutique establishment offers guests an immersive experience into the city's rich culture while providing contemporary comforts. Its prime location, just steps away from the iconic Chiang Rai Clock Tower and the bustling Night Bazaar, makes it an ideal base for both leisure and business travelers.

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San Clemente Palace Hotel: A Hidden Island Sanctuary Just Minutes from St. Mark’s Square

Located on the exclusive San Clemente Island, just a 10-minute boat ride from St. Mark’s Square, San Clemente Palace Hotel offers a rare Venetian experience — complete seclusion from the crowds with the magic of the city within reach. Housed in a 300-year-old former monastery and surrounded by centuries-old gardens and a 900-year-old church, the hotel stands as a living tribute to Venice’s rich past. Whether you're arriving for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a high-profile event, this island resort blends heritage with hospitality in a way that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

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Hotel At Six: Where Art, Design, and Luxury Meet

From the moment you step into Hotel At Six, the décor feels like a curated gallery. The property is a transformation into a new type of hotel: a 19th-century bank remade with warm natural materials and bold, modern accents. Every room and corridor holds a surprise – walls hang art pieces handpicked by curator Sune Nordgren, while Universal Design Studio’s interiors soften the building’s brutalist past with sawn stone, walnut panels and artful lighting. The effect is both sleek and welcoming: a hushed marble staircase leads to cozy lounges, and minimalist furnishings play off vibrant artwork. In short, At Six feels like an elegant living museum, where Sweden’s design heritage and contemporary luxury coexist in harmony.

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Shiba Park Hotel: A Literary Sanctuary in the Heart of Tokyo

Nestled in Tokyo's historic Shiba district, Shiba Park Hotel offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern comfort. Established in 1948, the hotel has undergone a comprehensive renovation from 2020 to 2023, transforming into a "Library Hotel" that connects people, the city, and history. Located just steps away from iconic landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Zojoji Temple, the hotel provides a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling city.

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The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka: Timeless Elegance in Japan’s Vibrant Metropolis

Nestled in the heart of Osaka's prestigious Umeda district, The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka seamlessly blends classic European charm with the refined hospitality for which Japan is renowned. This five-star hotel offers 291 meticulously appointed guest accommodations, including 26 suites, 2 Japanese Suites, and 2 Ritz-Carlton Suites, all adorned with 18th-century British decor and authentic Japanese accents. Guests are treated to panoramic city views and unparalleled service, making it an ideal retreat for both business and leisure travelers.

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Tamarind Village: Embracing Lanna Heritage in Chiang Mai’s Historic Core

In the heart of Chiang Mai's historic old town lies Tamarind Village, a boutique hotel that offers more than just accommodation—it provides an immersive journey into the rich tapestry of Lanna culture. Surrounded by ancient temples and bustling markets, this tranquil retreat is a testament to Northern Thailand's architectural and cultural legacy.

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The Dwarika’s Hotel: A Heritage Haven in the Heart of Kathmandu

In the mid-20th century, as Kathmandu underwent rapid modernization, many traditional buildings were demolished, and their ornate wooden carvings discarded. Witnessing this, Dwarika Das Shrestha began salvaging these pieces, envisioning a space where Nepal’s architectural artistry could be celebrated. This vision materialized into The Dwarika’s Hotel, a testament to cultural preservation and reverence for history.

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Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok: Where Heritage Meets Luxury

Established in 1876, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok has welcomed royalty, celebrities, and literary figures, earning its reputation as one of Asia's most prestigious hotels. Its commitment to excellence and attention to detail have made it a symbol of refined hospitality.

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Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como: Where Nature and Luxury Embrace

Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como is more than just a hotel; it's a destination that captures the essence of Italian elegance and natural beauty. Located in the charming village of Blevio, this lakeside haven offers guests an unparalleled experience of tranquility and luxury.

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