Must Try Hotels

No matter where you go in the world you can find fascinating off-the-beaten-path adventures near cute little hotels that welcome budget-conscious travelers.  Here are some tips for intrepid globetrotters.

Siem Reap, Cambodia
Guests at the Bou Savy Guest House are greeted at the airport by the friendly staff for a free ride to their luxurious, yet affordable, air-conditioned facilities on a quiet street.  Complimentary breakfast is provided in the garden and the travel desk will cheerfully arrange for Tuk Tuks (auto rickshaws) to surrounding attractions like Angkor Wat.
Tip!
Drive up the sacred mountain of Kulen in the Phnom Kulen National Park that’s 50 kilometers northeast of the Angkor Wat complex.  Along the way you’ll see ancient ruins, waterfalls and old growth forests.

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Live like a sultan for a bargain price at the Aida 2 Hotel Naama Bay, an all-inclusive resort that’s a quick walk from the beaches of Naama Bay.  Enjoy an excellent breakfast at the restaurant, relax in the Jacuzzi, swim in the pool, get a massage or hit the links on their private golf course.
Tip!
Experience the wide open spaces of the Arabian Desert aboard a Moto Quad where you can zip across the dunes and relax with drinks at a Bedouin tent while watching an Egyptian sunset.

Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand
Soak up the ocean view from the condominium-style rooms at the Haad Yao Bay View Resort & Spa on a beautiful white sand beach.  Facilities include a swimming pool, beauty salon, barbecue area and free breakfast at their Internet café.
Tip!
Ride up a jungle path astride a magnificent elephant for a commanding view of the island’s western beach, Mae Haed.  Outfitters like Maneerat Elephant Tours offer daily half hour rides.

Rome, Italy
Experience warm Italian hospitality at the family-run Hotel Gabriella conveniently located near Termini Railway Station that provides quick access to popular Roman attractions. This property found on HostelBookers.com has air-conditioned rooms have private facilities, free Wi-Fi and breakfast is available in the restaurant.
Tip!
Since you’re in Tiburtino, check out the fascinating Campo Verano Cemetery with its impressive statues, portraits and mausoleums memorializing many of Italy’s great poets, artists and statesmen.

Auckland, New Zealand
Relax on beautifully landscaped grounds around the swimming pool at the Mount Richmond Hotel  that’s surrounded by three city parks.  Air-conditioned Swiss-chalet style quarters have ensuite bathrooms, coffee stations, free Wi-Fi and the restaurant serves a full breakfast.
Tip!
Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves on tours that include boat rides across underground lakes under the hanging glowworms.

Paris, France
With its great central location, cozy rooms and friendly staff, the surprisingly affordable Hotel Régence has it all.  Breakfast is available in the dining room and the travel desk rents bicycles for neighborhood tours.
Tip!
Check out Paris’ Martin Luther King Memorial Park that features beautifully landscaped ponds, an interesting play area and comfortable deck chairs.

London, England
Delight in the romantic atmosphere of the Portobello House Hotel with its eclectic bohemian flair and beautifully dressed beds with Egyptian cotton linens.  Enjoy free breakfast in the restaurant, relax on the outdoor patio or get on line at the Internet café.  Tip!
Soak up some fresh air, sunshine and lots of water fun at the Kensington Memorial Park open daily from 7:30 AM until sundown.

New York City, New York
Check out the Manhattan skyline from your Long Island hotel room at the Hotel Vetiver that’s like a resort in the middle of the city.  Facilities include a fitness gym, outdoor patio, laundry and a full-service restaurant with free continental breakfast and room service.
Tip!
Explore the magic of the silver screen at the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, Queens, which offer classic screenings along with traditional and interactive exhibits.