Just a few years ago, the mere mention of a ‘green’ hotel would have probably conjured up images of having to stay in a hut in the middle of nowhere, sleeping on leaves and giving up all of your favorite amenities.

These days, however, hotels around the world have found that being more eco-friendly enhances the luxury aspect of their facilities, and attracts a clientele that is ready to pay extra in order to know that their health and well being, as well a those of the surroundings, is being protected. Here are our favorites:

Australia: Voyages Longitude 131

When you hear about the accommodations at this luxury resort next to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, you may first be taken aback, as they call them ‘tents’. They are far from camping teepees that fold up into your backpack. These eco-friendly structures are some of the most, painstakingly designed, spacious and private structures you will ever stay in, nestled along the terrain and offering unbroken views of the breathtaking scenery.  And with only 15 of them available, you never forget that you are experiencing something incredibly unique, and nothing short of five-star. www.longitude131.com.au

Napa Valley: DoubleTree Napa Valley Hotel and Spa

Northern California’s Napa Valley is one of the finest places to connect with nature, bask in beautiful surroundings and enjoy some of the best American wine and cuisine you can get. Topping off a visit by staying at this LEED Certified (Gold rating!), environmentally sustainable hotel, is ideal for any eco-conscious tourist – it utilizes energy saving solutions such as skylights for lighting, offers recycled products throughout all rooms and even provides eco-friendly beds made of renewable materials. Formerly known as the Gaia, but now a DoubleTree, this is not a hotel for ‘wow’ factor, but is certainly the greenest option in this enchanting destination. www.doubletree1.hilton.com

Switzerland: Whitepod Eco-Resort

If you’re off to the Swiss Alps for your next ski adventure, you will definitely want to check out the Whitepod Eco-Resort, which looks like it popped out of a James Bond movie from the 1980’s. That’s not an insult – the 15 state of the art insulated pods in this resort area offer incredible protection from the snow and cold weather, and are outfitted with everything from wood burning stoves to organic bedding.  They have a low impact on the surroundings, and the resort takes an active role in reducing waste, minimizing water and electricity consumption and utilizing renewable resources. www.whitepod.com

Japan: Hoshinoya Karuizawa

While this resort nestled in Nagano, Japan beautifully blends ancient Japanese traditions with modern Western amenities, the standout feature is its incredible Onsen (hot spring bath). Especially in the coldest months, a dip in these waters is rejuvenating, and the perfect way to relax before enjoying a locally sourced meal or resting in the eco-friendly Ryokan-style rooms.  The resort also harnesses natural, geothermal heat, utilizes recyclable materials, and actively pursues several eco-friendly projects, policies and initiatives. If you are wondering, Fukushima is nowhere close to this area. www.hoshinoya.com

Maldives: Soneva Fushi Resort

The Maldives should be one of those ‘bucket list’ places for everyone. This destination is truly gorgeous, especially the North Baal Atoll area and its lush terrain, sandy beaches and glittering lagoon, where this resort makes its home. In 2010, the facilities became 100% carbon neutral, and over the years the hotel has won multiple awards for its energy efficiency, waste reduction practices, and preservation programs. What this means for guests is that they get to frolic in one of the most pure destinations in the world, a luxury to beat all luxuries. www.sixsenses.com

Sometimes the simple things make for pretty good travel accessories or companions. While there may be a whole universe of gadgets and fashionable devices out there, we decided to think of stuff you can actually buy – and use.

We hope you enjoy these suggestions for items to make your next trip a little more comfortable.

Passport Panties

Nothing can ruin a trip as much as being stripped of you money, credit card or passport. Sure you can get robbed… but also, by keeping your valuables in your hand or handbag there is a high risk you will forget them somewhere or just drop them when you loose focus. But we are all so very tired of those ugly waist bags and horrid pouches that turn us into obvious tourist targets wherever we go. So what to do then? Luckily there is a company out there that has thought of creating underwear with big pockets for your credit cards and passports. Supposedly they are both comfortable and safe, and come in a range of cute colors. Just remember to put them on, and not throw them into the washing machine without first emptying… – well, you know. www.clevertravelcompanion.com

3D Binoculars & Film Camera

Hurray! The world’s first digital binoculars came from Sony earlier this year and not only do they let you see things up to 20 times closer, and feature both stereo sound and the renowned Sony SteadyShot stabilization technology, they also come with capabilities to shoot 3D films.  Take them on all your trips, whether that means bird watching or snowboarding. Arigato! www.sony.com

Victorinox Airboss 2011

When you’re trying to catch a flight or a train, nothing matters more than time. So, what could be a better travel companion than a high precision watch? While there are thousands of options out there, the Victorinox Airboss 2011 really caught our attention. Waterproof and featuring the finest mechanic heart, it is inspired by the extreme needs of flight controllers. That means that if you wear this watch you should have as sharp an eye on the time as any captain of the skies. www.victorinox.com

F49 Fringe Backpack

Made by the Swiss brand Freitag, this bag had us at hello. Not because it looks cute and modern, but because just like Freitag’s other bags it is made from recycled old truck tarpaulins that have lasted through and survived thousands of miles on the highways of Europe. This is a bag we would put our trust, and our most precious belongings, into.  www.freitag.ch

World View App

For those who are feeling a little bit too lazy to travel at all, or who simply want to make sure they see their destination before they book, “there is an app for that”. This one is called World View and it boasts fresh pictures from more than 12,000 web cameras around the world. Just imagine yourself seeing what the neighborhood crowd looks like before you book a hotel in a city you have never visited, if that beach town is as picturesque as your friends keep telling you – or just what the traffic is like at the end of your road trip. Ah bliss. www.worldviewmobileapp.com

Are you dreaming of a white Christmas – on the slopes? While we realize some parts of the world are still without snow, we cannot help but let our thoughts wander to those powdery, sun-kissed drops, where we get the year’s best adrenaline kicks.

Whether you are lucky enough to actually have a skiing holiday lined up and need some new gear, or simply need to buy the right present for someone who is a die hard downhill fanatic, here is our top 5 list for alpine gear.

POC Helmet

This may look like just another ski helmet, but looks can be deceiving. The Swedish company POC involves everyone from engineers to neurologists and back specialists in developing their gear. You could say that they take their business, well, seriously.  Their goal? To save lives and reduce the severity of injuries of course. Our favorite in their collection is the Frontal Jon Olson Ed. It features three different ventilation systems and two layers of frontal shell – to avoid direct wind and penetration from sharp objects. And it looks pretty cool. www.pocsports.com

ABS Avalanche Airbag

Now, this is another potentially life saving device. Perfect if you like the excitement of exploring rough terrain away from the regular slopes, and thereby putting yourself at risk of being buried in an avalanche.  The way this airbag works is that you wear it like a backpack and then when activated it gives you a dynamic lift – helping you from disappearing beneath tons of snow. And while waiting for help the bright colors are also likely to make you easier to spot for search and rescue teams. Don’t take our word for it, if you browse their site you will see testimonials such as “I survived a 2,000 meter avalanche thanks to ABS”. www.abs-airbag.de

GoPro Camera

Enough serious business! Let’s look at some fun stuff! Like this GoPro camera that you can attach to your ski helmet and film your turns (and tumbles) through the white landscape. Just imagine how cool that video may look if you complete a totally perfect run? Don’t worry if you plan on being out for a while either as it actually lets you record 2.5 hours on a single charge. www.gopro.com

Atomic Ski Boots

You want to go fast, and you want to be comfortable. You also want your force and your energy to transmit seamlessly all the way out into the tips of your skis. This is where good ski boots become crucial. We looked around a while and decided the Atomic LF 120 is a pretty cool option, at least if you are a fairly advanced skier. Fitted with a material that snugly supports specific zones on your foot, and then keeps adapting and adjusting as your movements change, these boots are perfect for high-speed adventures. www.atomicsnow.com

Nordica Dobermann Spitfire EDT Skis

Finally, we have reached the most important part of your ski outfit. These engineered masterpieces by Nordica will keep you glued to the snow, almost no matter how daring your turns. Thanks to a carbon alloy that has been applied to the ski you can experience greater flexibility and superb stability.  But perhaps the best thing of all is that because these superstars do so much of the work for you, you can ski longer (or take on tougher slopes) as you have more energy. www.shop.nordicausa.com

Got more tips for ski gear? Share them in the comments please.

The cabin crew from a Philippine airline who shot to fame after dancing to Lady Gaga during their passenger safety demonstration have returned with a new dance routine to Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas.

If you’re looking to really impress someone in 2012 with an extraordinarily memorable first date, then look no further than Spitbank Fort.

Amazing Retreats’ latest addition – a former Napoleonic fort in the middle of The Solent – has put together the World’s Most Expensive First Date package for £34,000.

Along with exclusive use of one of the most unique and private venues in the world, the package also includes your very own 60ft luxury Sunseeker motor yacht to cruise to your heart’s content for 24 hours.

Your romantic first date will begin at your doorstep with a chauffeur driven Bentley which will take you to and from the Royal Clarence Marina in Gosport, Portsmouth, where you will be greeted by your personal General Manager while offered champagne and canapés before boarding your luxury yacht to transport you to the fort.

Upon arrival at the eight bedroom Fort, you will have three private dining rooms, three bars – including a rooftop champagne bar, a wine cellar, library, rooftop hot pool, sauna and sun decks at your disposal.

But perhaps the highlight of your romantic stay at the Spitbank Fort is the dramatic three hundred and sixty degree views across The Solent – a strait separating the Isle of Wight from the mainland of England.

You can choose to while away the afternoon relaxing in the spacious roof-top hot tub with a glass of Laurent Perrier Rose and a personal masseur; or by enjoying a leisurely boat trip around the Isle of Wight.

In the early evening, you can watch the sun set over the harbour while you are serenaded by a string quarter and served delicious canapés before a mouth-watering five course menu, chosen by you in advance and prepared by your very own gourmet Chef. Anything from fresh local oysters to freshly caught lobster and local fillet steak will all be available.

After your hearty meal, you can then visit the Fort’s roof top fire pit where you can enjoy an aperitif and toasted marshmallows whist enjoying the privacy and seclusion of your surroundings. Or if you’d rather hit the sack, you can head to your room for a good night’s sleep complete with super king-size bed mattress and luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets.

The next morning, wake up at any time that suits you to a freshly prepared breakfast served to you either in bed or in the lighthouse with its 180 degree views of Portsmouth Harbour.

Then it’s time to return to civilisation with your trip back to Royal Clarence marina where you will be given a complimentary voucher (worth £500 per person) for a shopping spree at GunWharf Quays.

Need something to thrill you this winter? Instead of getting buried in snow, stuck on shopping lines or simply feeling trapped at home, why not head somewhere warm, climb as high as you can and hurtle towards the earth? There’s nothing like feeling like a speck in spellbinding nature and facing possible doom in order to feel alive.

Here are some of the best places to go bungee jumping and topping off 2011 / bringing in 2012 in style.

New Zealand – Nevis Highwire Bungy

At 134 meters (440 feet) high, this is where those pesky Hobbits would have jumped from if they weren’t so busy protecting that silly magical ring.  Located above the Nevis River, in arguably one of the most breathtaking places in the world, this site has it all, from untouched New Zealand surroundings to beautiful weather. Even if you chicken out, you can shamefully hang out in the glass bungee pod from where you can stare at the views (and watch braver souls go have some unforgettable fun).

www.bungy.co.nz

Nepal – The Last Resort

At 160 meters (525 feet), this is the best place to ether top off your spiritual journey or to start it off with style.  Located on the longest suspension bridge in the country, the walk to the jump site alone will be an unforgettable experience.  It’ll give you enough time to reflect on your life, your goals, your loves… but lets be serious here, we know you’ll probably be thinking about how nervous you are or about all the things you would rather be doing. After all that anticipation, you know the satisfaction and exhilaration you will feel from the freefall is going to be incredible.

www.thelastresort.com.np

Italy – Ponte Colossus

In the country where red wine, renaissance painters and the Pope are paramount, you may not think that bungee jumping would stand out. But at 152 meters (500 feet), this is among the highest jump sites in the world, and has attracted countless people every year since opening in 1995. You’ll potentially go over 100km/h when you jump, an impressive vertical speed that will not only feel joyous, but also draw tears from your face through sheer force. Good times!

www.bungee.it

Switzerland – Verzasca Dam

One of the few highlights of the Pierce Brosnan/James Bond film ‘Goldeneye’ was the big bungee stunt. And the dam in that scene was this one, the Verazsca, a hydroelectric dam that is perfectly shaped for those who want to feel what it’s like to be freefalling like a superspy.  It’s a whopping 220 meters (721 feet), which means that this is one of the longest jumps available in the world, along with being one of the most unique. It also means that you will also have to make a reservation, as this is indeed one of the most popular bungee sites in the world today.

www.trekking.ch

Chile – Volcano Bungee

This final entry truly stands out, offering 137 Meters (450 feet) in height. But is sheer distance not enough to excite you? Ok, well, how about jumping that distance from a helicopter? Still not impressive enough? How about jumping off a helicopter over an active volcano and towards some molten lava? That’s the experience you can have when you head to Pucon. Just be ready to drop about 10 thousand dollars for the jump – but that’s a small price to pay for making sure that no one will question your bravery ever again.

www.bungee.com

There are countless ways to rate your favorite hotels. Location – whether it is on the beach or in the heart of the city – is one. The amenities, from world-class dining to pools, flat screen televisions and even the quality of the robes, are without a doubt crucial. But what would be the draw for art collectors, professional painters and sculptors, as well as historians?

Such folks see art as the distillation of human imagination and spirit, and would love to get close to some of the finest pieces o art not displayed in a museum.  If you are looking to stay at a place that doubles as a museum or Thomas Crown’s ultimate wet dream, check out our list of the hotels with the best art collections.

St. Regis, Singapore

The St. Regis chain of hotel is synonymous with excellence, and their Singapore addition is no different. Situated in the heart of the downtown area, this newly completed luxury building has been built with every possible amenity in mind, and features everything from 24 hour butler service to beautifully appointed rooms.  The artists in their collection – an eclectic mix that includes Joan Miro, Chen Wen Hsi and Fernando Botero – is among the finest in all of Asia. Truly impressive. www.starwoodhotels.com

Dolder Grand, Zurich

The Swiss have a reputation for being a neutral country, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t like to show off. The Dolder Grand hotel is oft reputed as one of the finest places to stay in the world, and its century-old palatial settings overlooking the Zurich skyline alone are enough to earn it multiple stars. Along with the requisite luxury spas, restaurants and top-notch services, their equally renowned art collection includes Salvador Dali, Andy Warhol, Sol LeWitt and Damien Hirst. www.thedoldergrand.com

Four Seasons, Florence

If you are searching for a hotel that would please the old masters, then this Four Seasons is the clear winner. You will immediately be transported to a different era, as the authentic architecture, beautifully restored furniture and lavish amenities have all been painstakingly designed to harmonize with each other. Like all Four Seasons hotels, you can expect one of the highest standards for service, but this hotel also features an art collection that spans centuries. Expect to see everything from Baldassarre Franceschini to Alessandro de Medici, countless Renaissance frescoes, paintings, sculptures and more. www.fourseasons.com

Semiramis, Athens

In one of the oldest places in the world exists an oasis of pop art and contemporary architecture – the Semiramis. This hotel is the brainchild of developer (and billionaire) Dakis Joannou and esteemed modern designer Karim Rashid, and was conceived to meet the demands of the modern lifestyle with a dedication of form and functionality. Every aspect of this destination is quite frankly over-the-top, but makes a memorable impression nonetheless. And while you may not find any ancient art here, you will be dazzled by the likes of Tim Noble, Spencer Tunick and Jeff Koons. www.yeshotels.gr

Gramercy Park Hotel, New York City

If we had to choose one hotel to beat all of these worthy candidates, we would have to go with the Gramercy. Developed by Ian Schrager, who revitalized the hotel industry with the work he did with the sexy Morgan hotel chain (not to mention co-founding the legendary Studio 54), this renovation of a historic building located next to the eponymous – and exclusive – Gramercy Park is nothing short of exceptional. Sure, this is the city of MoMA and The Met, but this luxury hotel is a modern art lover’s dream, with works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Richard Prince, David Salle, Jean-Michel Basquiat and many more. www.gramercyparkhotel.com

What does Halloween mean to you? Is it an excuse to fulfill that cross-dressing dream? Or maybe it allows you to stuff yourself with candy and recapture your childhood. However you see it, we all can admit that it is almost never as cool and satisfying as you want it to be.

So before you run out and get that Angry Birds costume you’ve been talking about all year, we want to give you some alternative ideas that may breathe new life into an over-marketed, often unimaginative, and pretty tired holiday.

FACES

If you’re a seasoned programmer, or motivated pervert, this should be a fun project. Utilizing a face-tracking program, you now have the ability to somewhat convincingly project someone else’s face onto your own. Don’t scoff at the low-resolution projection here – this is just the beginning, and we’re sure we’re only a couple of years away from being able to convincingly fool people over video Skype. In the meantime, go freak people out on chatroulette. Watch the video, as it is truly creepy. Developed by Arturo Castro (http://vimeo.com/29279198)

REAL-f 3DPF

For those who intend to actually get out of the house, the possibilities for the Japanese-built REAL-f 3DPF (3D Photo Form) are endless. This company will scan your face with their proprietary 3D technology, then print it onto an accurate mold. The level of detail is incredible, which results in a convincing mask that is both life-like and devoid of life. We’re sure you can think of many pranks to accomplish with this one, but our favorite idea is to print out a few dozen of these, hand them to your friends, and relive Being John Malkovich. Real-f (http://real-f.jp/)

DIY Flying Ghost

Take a look at this video, and you’ll learn how to modify a radio-controlled quadrocopter into a flying ghost that can speed down streets and float high above rooftops. If you’re a skilled pilot, this should provide hours of fun – and add a new dimension to this holiday – as you chase after unsuspecting trick-or-treaters. But don’t get too close, because those blades can provide the kind of trick that will raise your insurance premiums for sure. Utah Aerials (http://www.utahaerials.com/2010/10/evil-remote-controlled-ghost.html)

Blackout Haunted House

In a little placed called New York City is a destination that will scare your socks off – and no, it’s not the subway.  At this haunted house for the new millennium, you will be asked to go in alone, wear a protective mask and be put through a test that even the creators of SAW would have liked to have come up with – and yes, you have to be over 18 in order to experience this, so don’t expect cheap scares. So if you’re looking for genuine, bone chilling thrills this Halloween, why not fly here and spend your hard earned cash on this once a year experience? Blackout Haunted House (http://blackoutnyc.com/tickets)

Happy Halloween!

So you’re off to New York City. What are you going to spend your money on? The food? The drinks? The attractions? No matter what you want out of the experience, a goal all people share is to find the right hotel – a place that is comfortable or luxurious, intimate or full of life.

And while the city has tons of places to choose from, there are certainly a select few that really deliver just a little more than what you would expect.

Here are the hotels we think deserve your attention.

Young and Hip: Yotel

This futuristic building, located close to Times Square, is the perfect place for those who truly look at New York as the city of all cities. The mood lighting, the funky décor, the modestly sized yet comfortable rooms (inspired by Japanese pod hotels) are all designed to transport you out of your daily routine and get you into vacation mode.  Within walking distance are all of the Broadway theaters and a few too many ‘tourist traps’, but it’s a great staring point where you can access the rest of NYC by foot, taxi, or subway. Yotel – 570 10th Ave (between 41st St & 42nd St) www.yotel.com

Celebrity Hangout: Thompson LES

No other neighborhood in New York City is as appealing as the Lower East Side. This bohemian sanctuary is filled with boutiques, bars, restaurants and you may spy quite a few celebrities down here on any given day. Hotels like The Thompson are among the few uber-chic places in the area to hang your hat, and feature a sleek and modern ambiance, numerous amenities and a level of privacy that makes you feel like a rock star. Thompson LES – 190 Allen St (between 1st Ave & Houston St) www.thompsonhotels.com

The Ace Hotel

Boutique hotels are a dime a dozen, but this one takes the proverbial cake.  Its dark and moody atmosphere screams ‘Gotham’, but never goes over the top or becomes pretentious. What we really love about this place is the bustling lobby, which attracts many freelancers, as well as houses an excellent bar, coffee shop and restaurant.  It gives a constant flow of energy that is dynamic and inspiring the moment you walk in, and gets your blood flowing when you’re ready to head out into the night. The Ace Hotel – 20 W 29th St (between 5th Ave & Broadway) www.acehotel.com

The Splurge: Mandarin Oriental

Quite possibly the sexiest views of Manhattan are offered at the Mandarin Oriental, which offers rooms that soar above the city skyline in the Time Warner Center.  If you love world-class amenities and money is no object, then this is indeed one of the best hotels to stay.  The service is impeccable, the Columbus Circle location puts you steps from Central Park, and the high-end shopping options, as well as the finest (and most expensive restaurants), right next door will make your stay unforgettable. Mandarin Oriental – 80 Columbus Cir (between 62nd St & 63rd St) www.mandarinoriental.com

The Legendary: The Plaza

There are a lot of historical hotels in New York City that will vie for your attention (all of which are certainly worthy), but we had to choose The Plaza as the one to try if you’re only going to be here once.  Recently renovated to its former glory, the lobby, restaurants, and rooms all take you back to a bygone era, and few places can compare when it comes to conveying the classic romance of the city. To no surprise, this is one of the most expensive places to stay too, but that’s the whole point of coming here isn’t it? The Plaza Hotel – 768 5th Ave (between 58th St & 59th St) www.fairmont.com

What other hotels in NYC do you like? Let us know in the comments!

For the seventh consecutive year, Moscow has been named as the city with the world’s most expensive hotels for business travellers, ahead of Geneva, Zurich and Paris.

According to The Telegraph, the average hotel room rate in Moscow from January to June this year was £261, compared to £228 in Geneva and £220 in Zurich.

Russia’s capital city is also home to the world’s wealthiest expats, with over a third earning in excess of £160,000 a year.

Out of the 50 cities in total surveyed by international corporate services company Hogg Robinson Group (HRG), 33 reported a four per cent increase in hotel rates over the previous year, with particularly strong growth in Asia, which experienced a seven per cent increase.

Istanbul experienced the highest overall increase in average hotel room rates, with a rise of 37 per cent to £196 a night.

Director of global hotel relations at HRG, Margaret Bowler, said: “The shift from Europe to Asia in hotel rate growth is significant in that it demonstrates changing business priorities.

“The rates demonstrate that demand has increased for travel to emerging regions as a result of the need to do business and that travellers are willing to pay higher hotel costs during their stay.”

The weakest performing region in the survey was Eastern Europe, which suffered a 6.6 per cent decrease in average hotel room rates.

Other notable decreases were in Middle Eastern countries such as Abu Dhabi (decrease of 15 per cent) and Dubai (decrease of seven per cent), where hotel supply exceeded demand.

Ms Bowler added: “Key international cities like London, New York and Paris reported hotel rate increases, demonstrating buoyancy and resilience. London, in particular, is expected to flourish next year as it hosts the Olympics.

“Overall, our research shows that global hotel rates are increasing and have been exhibiting signs of growth. Looking ahead, we anticipate that hotel rates will continue to rise if the economy improves.”