It began in a Cairo taxi—window cracked, sand swirling in the air, the faint scent of jasmine mixing with exhaust. My driver had just slammed the brakes to avoid a donkey cart, smiled, and said, “Welcome to the world.”
He wasn’t wrong.
Traveling around the world isn’t just about hopping borders. It’s about collecting little moments—smells, sounds, awkward customs, unforgettable views, and yes, some truly incredible hotel stays. Over the years (and many continents), my husband and I have stayed in jungle lodges, beach bungalows, city towers, desert riads, and mountain hideaways. Here’s a suitcase full of stories and the most honest travel tips we’ve learned—told through hotel rooms and breakfast spreads.
1. Middle East: Souks, Sands & Surprise Hospitality
Hotel: Almadiafa – Cairo, Egypt
This boutique hotel felt more like a private apartment in the clouds. The rooftop terrace overlooked the minarets of old Cairo, and at night, the call to prayer echoed through the city. Our sheets smelled faintly of rose water, and we were served dates and strong cardamom coffee upon arrival.
Pro tip: Always carry small bills. Tipping is expected, and generously rewarded with genuine smiles.
2. East Africa: Islands, Wildlife & Ocean Breezes
Hotel: Miss Miriam Hotel frente al mar
The sea lapped at the steps of the hotel, and breakfast was grilled fish, sweet mangoes, and warm chapati. Our room had mosquito nets that felt like a royal canopy, and the ocean was never more than 20 feet away.
Other island gems:
- North Island (Seychelles) – Possibly the most luxurious eco-hotel on earth.
- Villa Islander – Simple, elegant, and all about barefoot luxury.
- Sun Villa – For when you want comfort without the crowds.
Tip: Island time is real. Let go of schedules and enjoy the slow rhythm.
3. The Caribbean: Rum, Reggae & Sea Foam
Hotel: Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa All Inclusive – Jamaica
We arrived to steel drum music and a cold cocktail. The view from our suite? Endless turquoise. There were five restaurants, nightly shows, and a pool so massive we got lost in it.
Also loved:
- Point Village Negril Jamaica – Quiet, quirky, and directly on the sand.
- Yellow Bird Sea – Beachfront simplicity with all the charm.
- Merrils Beach Resort – A favorite for budget-conscious sun-seekers.
- Radisson Grenada Beach Resort – Friendly staff, unforgettable sunsets.
- St Georges Club – Great for longer stays, with space to breathe.
- RNM The Clubhouse Grenada – Feels like staying with friends.
- Mitchells Guest House – A tiny guesthouse with big heart.
Caribbean tip: Learn a few phrases in patois—it goes a long way.
4. Asia: Temples, Markets & Deep Calm
Hotel: Borei Angkor Resort & Spa – Siem Reap, Cambodia
This hotel smelled like lemongrass and polished wood. The pool was a sanctuary after dusty days exploring Angkor Wat. The staff knew our names by day two. Magic.
Also consider:
- Asuite-Dream – Thailand – Dreamy suites near the coast.
- Golden Season Furnished Apartments 4 – UAE – Great for longer stays.
Asia tip: Always ask hotel staff for local food spots—not the ones on Google Maps.
5. French Polynesia: Paradise on Repeat
Hotel: Hotel Royal Huahine – Huahine Island
Overwater bungalows. Coral beneath your feet. Stars so bright they looked painted on. The room had wood-carved headboards, fresh flowers on the pillows, and a bathtub with a lagoon view.
Other paradises:
- Fare Tokoau Moorea – Local-run with serious soul.
- Rangiroa Plage – Remote, peaceful, and pristine.
- Hakamanu Lodge – Family-run and deeply welcoming.
- Pension Turiroa Chez Olga – One of the best-value stays in all of Polynesia.
- Chez Dolores – Island vibes, perfect for digital detoxing.
Tip: Pack reef shoes. Those coral beaches are beautiful—and sharp.
6. Central America: Lush Landscapes & Laid-Back Vibes
Hotel: Manatus Hotel – Tortuguero, Costa Rica
We reached this jungle hotel by boat. Monkeys woke us up. Frogs sang us to sleep. The room had AC, ceiling fans, and huge windows that made it feel like you were camping in style.
More favorites:
- Cabinas El Muellecito – Beachy, basic, and brilliant for surfers.
- Thomas Apartments – Cozy and clean in the middle of lush gardens.
Local tip: Don’t underestimate rainy season—it really rains.
7. Europe: Castles, Countryside & Culture
Hotel: Riad Bensaid – Marrakech, Morocco
Okay, not Europe, but close enough. This riad was a peaceful escape from the madness of the medina. The tiles underfoot were cool even in summer, and the rooftop terrace was where we fell in love with mint tea.
French countryside faves:
- L’Arum des Prairies – A farmstay with homemade cheese and endless green.
- Chambres et Table d’hôte Les Hortensias – Think vintage quilts and orchard breakfasts.
- Dar Sakina – Courtyard dreams in Rabat.
- Les Nymphes De Bourbon – Elegant with a story behind every room.
- Lechappee belle – Full of charm, personality, and killer views.
- Chambres d’hôtes DORIS – Sweet and simple.
- Les Aubépines – So many flowers, so much cheese.
- Sous le soleil de la Reunion – An ideal Reunion Island base.
- Ravine Bleue, Le Moutardier 2, Le four à pain – A trio of cute cottages for off-the-grid feels.
- Entre Deux Rêves, Chambres chez l’habitant ZAMBROKAL, L’arpege austral – All local, all lovely.
- Entre cocotiers et Filaos, Résidence Eglantine, Chambres d’hôtes l’Orchidée Rose – Cozy, clean, and filled with love.
Tip: Try everything at breakfast, even if you don’t know what it is.
8. Unique Gems from All Around
- Big Sky Lodge – Montana, USA – Rustic cabin vibes with mountain views that stop you mid-sentence.
- SEASIDE VILLA – Greece – Bougainvillea, balconies, and beaches.
- Villa Tonoi – Moorea – Sweet and simple with serious views.
- Hotel Brinkzicht – Netherlands – Bicycles, tulips, and warm apple pie.
- Casa Gemelos – Mexico – Hidden and charming.
- Art Studios Local – Portugal – Cozy with personality.
- Canakkale Bogaz Hotel – Turkey – Near the Dardanelles with sea breezes and history.
- 13 Raptors Lodge – South Africa – Safari meets luxury.
- Rooibos Bush Lodge – Namibia – Best stargazing we’ve ever experienced.
Final Thoughts: Passport Pages and Pillow Memories
Traveling the world is beautiful chaos. It’s missed trains and mango breakfasts. It’s language barriers and laughter. It’s being humbled by how kind strangers can be—and how many places feel like home.
Hotels, for us, aren’t just places to sleep. They’re bookmarks in our story. Some smelled like sea breeze, others like wood smoke or blooming frangipani. Some had softest sheets, others had views that made us forget how to blink.
We left each place a little fuller—of memories, moments, and always, always new places to dream of.
Where’s next? We don’t know. But we know where we’ll sleep: somewhere new, somewhere loved.
And hopefully, somewhere with a breakfast worth waking up for.