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Dating from the Edwardian era, the elegant Duke’s Hotel evokes an era of ladies and gentleman assembling for candlelit dining and an air of gentility very rare in this modern era.  Although luxe in every way, it is an underplayed and subtle emphasis on comfort, not glitz, an emphasis that has brought guests who return through the years.

Renovated in 2007, Duke’s Hotel guest can now have modern technological conveniences along with their port.  And speaking of port, the world-famous Duke’s Bar has been a cozy gathering place since the turn of the century.  Especially renowned at the bar are the excellent martinis, best sipped while ensconced in the deep softness of the blue velvet armchairs.

The dining room at Duke’s Hotel concentrates on British favorites and has an extensive wine collection that features some remarkable reds.

The renovation has made the guest rooms at Duke’s especially comfortable. They feature rich fabrics and carpets, designer lighting, individually controlled air conditioning, wireless broadband access, satellite channels with flatscreen TV.  Guests are also treated to complimentary newspaper, bottled water and shoe shines.

Duke’s Hotel
Location: 35 St James Place, London, United Kingdom SW1A 1NY; 90 rooms; 16 miles from Heathrow.

Luxury style: Tradition reigns here, but it is of the most comfortable sort.  The straightforward care for guests’ well being has led to several prestigious awards for service, an indicator of true luxury.

What we’ve heard: Duke’s Mayfair location is ideal for shoppers, in the midst swaths of fashionable shops. A long day of sightseeing and shopping can end in the legendary Duke’s Bar, a landmark in its own right.

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In a historic building dating back to 1400, the charming Hotel Die Swaene overlooks a picturesque canal in the Bruges city center. Its outstanding location and opulent yet intimate atmosphere makes this 30-room haven one of Europe’s most romantic hotels. A recent addition at the hotel is the “The Pergola” which has added eight beautiful suites and the noted restaurant “Pergola Kaffee” which overlooks the canal and has a sunny terrace to watch the world go by.

The guest rooms are finely furnished with rich fabrics and dark antique wood furniture. The quaintness of the antique setting is complemented by every modern convenience including direct-dial phones, satellite TV and internet connectivity.

The hotel’s lounge is also a fascinating historic spotl It is the restored meeting room of the Guild of Tailors who used the space circa 1700’s. There is a painted ceiling and cozy bar for relaxation or perhaps an appetizer before dinner.

A pool and sauna can offer a tonic after a long day of sightseeing and shopping. The hotel is just minutes away from the Bruges Town Hall and only 200 metres from the famed Gruuthuse Palace and Museum.

Hotel Die Swaene
Location: Steenhouwersdijk, Bruges, Belgium 8000; 30 rooms and suites; 80 kilometers, 60 minutes to airport.

Luxury style: Romance is in the air at the Die Swaene. The charming location and elegant interiors make this a perfect getaway for couples who can wander the picturesque Bruges and then watch the world go by with an aperitif on the terrace.

What we’ve heard: Afternoon tea is a special treat at Hotel Die Swaene. Also, check for a canal view room when booking.

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Entering the Neri from the historic alleyways of the Barri Gotic, Barcelona’s Gothic quarter, you will be struck by the contrast between the sleek modern style which blends stylishly the echoes of the 18th-century palace that it once was.  This superb intimate boutique-style hotel provides an oasis of calm in a charming secluded district a mere 200 meters from the hustle and bustle of the Ramblas and just across from Barcelona’s Gothic cathedral.

The guest rooms are restrained and designed with a beautifully muted palette of greys and greens and features elegant modern furnishings and effective lighting.

The Restaurant Neri, a top-rated restaurant, occupies the vaulted basement and serves Spanish specialities with a hint of Africa and international dishes, as well as a daily breakfast.  The hotel’s shaded roof terrace offers views over the rooftops and is scented by jasmine and orange blossom.

The Neri is one of Barcelona’s new wave of small chic boutique hotels, and is a top choice with its stylish interiors, sleek and comfortable guest rooms and topnotch dining.

Neri Hotel Barcelona
Location: Sant Sever 5, Barcelona, Spain 08002; 22 rooms; distance from airport

Luxury style: Modern, contemporary feel amidst behind historic facade.

What we’ve heard: Rooms are spacious and relaxing and the hotel is a marvelous choice for travelers who seek a hideaway with the urban bustle.  The Barri Gotic, with its small streets and winding alleyways is a fascinating headquarters that is well located and central to all attractions.

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