*Note: Some of these hotel links for where to stay are affiliate links, meaning that if you book through my link, I will make a small commission (at no extra cost to you).
I’ve travelled a lot since starting this travel blog. I’ve stayed in numerous hotels, apartments and B&Bs along the way.
Some of the accommodation I’ve used has been nothing to write home about. Other places have been great. So great that I still remember the hotel names and what I loved about them.
Below you’ll find some of my favourite places to stay. I have personally stayed at them and wouldn’t hesitate to stay again.
Table of Contents
Europe
Germany
Waldeck – Hotel Schloss Waldeck
Who doesn’t want to stay in a castle when you are in Germany?! Hotel Schloss Waldeck offers stunning views of the countryside. A gem of an accommodation in a small town. The rooms are super comfy and are spacious. The price is right for this four-star accommodation.
Italy
Gambasi Terme – Casa Baldi-Via Francigena
Stay in gorgeous Tuscany with a stunning view of the sunset from your private balcony in the evening. Matteo was our host at this apartment located in a very strategic position to visit San Gimignano, and Florence. You are within walking distance of restaurants, pizzerias, bars and the market.
Mirano – San Silvestro Holding – Apartment n. 5
Only 19 km from Venice, Guido’s apartment was our favourite stay in Europe. Talk about being a super host! We had enough food for breakfast for four days, wine, beer, fruit, and to top it all off, Guido’s incredible hospitality. We visited with him into the night under the oak tree in the yard along with some delicious, homemade limoncello. Never tried Airbnb? Claim your $95 CAD Airbnb credit now!
Sestriere – Apartment 69 Residence Palace 1
Yes, the name is weird but the view is spectacular! I could have sat all week and just looked at the view with a coffee in hand. Sestriere is a small ski resort with a lot of outdoor activities at hand. From golfing, to hiking, to mountain biking, you can do it all. There are also tons of cool old fortresses within 30 km. Take a day trip to Briancon, France, if you please. Sestriere is 18 km from the French border.
Sover – Maso Sveseri
I had always dreamed of staying in a little place like this one. Striking views, the staff were friendly and the breakfast was superb. The rooms are newly renovated with state of the art showers. The host didn’t speak very good English but that made the experience authentic.
The Middle East
Jordan – Petra Moon Hotel
Located right outside the front gates of Petra, this was the best hotel we stayed at in Jordan. It was clean, comfortable and it had universal electrical sockets so no need for an adapter. The buffet breakfast was excellent! You can also watch a sunset and moon rise from the rooftop of this lovely hotel.
North America
Canada
Almonte, Ontario – Menzies House 1850 Bed & Breakfast
This was my first B&B experience and it sold me on this type of accommodation. Fresh cookies and tea welcomed us at arrival. The couple that runs and owns this B&B are the most precious hosts I have had the pleasure of meeting. Breakfast was delicious and served in style. We felt like royalty!
Banff, Alberta – Fairmont Banff Springs
This gorgeous, 4-star hotel offers scenic views, restaurants and is a nice walk to Bow Valley Falls. Book this one in advance because it is almost always sold out.
Calgary, Alberta – 1 Bedroom Private Suite in Deer Ridge
This is Airbnb done right. The lovely basement suite is all you could ask for in a home-away-from-home. It is sparkling clean, updated, and nicely furnished with cozy details. The bathroom is fully stocked with anything you may need right down to Q-tips. Check-in and check-out were a breeze, not to mention that Tracey was quick to answer any questions we had. A perfect stay for a couple. Never tried Airbnb? Claim your $95 CAD Airbnb credit now!
Ottawa, Ontario – Lord Elgin Hotel
I’m a small-town girl but Ottawa is my absolute favourite Canadian city. We stayed at the Lord Elgin the first time we went to Ottawa. Location! Location! Location! It is within walking distance of Sparks Street, The Parliament Buildings, The Rideau Canal, the Byward Market, Shopping, The Royal Canadian Mint and the National War Memorial. It was our anniversary when we stayed and the room attendants saw our greeting cards to each other. We came back to robes, slippers, wine and candies. Nice!
Parksville, British Columbia, Vancouver Island – Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort
Want a great view of the ocean AND the mountains? Tigh-Na-Mara won’t disappoint. They also have the #1 spa in Western Canada to pamper yourself in after your day of activities.
Parksville, British Columbia, Vancouver Island – Ocean Sands Resort
The view at this resort is also out of this world. Make sure to get an ocean view room. Discover relaxation while sitting in the dining area first thing in the morning and just watching the tide go out.
Parksville, British Columbia, Vancouver Island – Pacific Shores Resort & Spa
You probably see a theme here… I love Vancouver Island. I just might move there someday. The rooms at Pacific Shores were large and comfortable. Great views, too.
United States of America
Monterey, California – Monterey Surf Inn
A cute, clean and spacious room awaited us at this budget motor inn. The room and grounds were clean. Great place to stay if you plan on going to Fisherman’s Wharf or Pebble Beach.
New Orleans, Louisiana – AC Motels by Marriott New Orleans Bourbon
A couple of blocks away from Bourbon Street gives you a classy, quiet place to stay. This hotel is walking distance to the St. Charles Streetcar pick up as well. The hotel staff are super friendly and helpful, not to mention they make a killer Smoked Manhattan cocktail.
Socorro, New Mexico – EconoLodge Inn & Suites
We were pleasantly surprised with our stay in Socorro. A clean, budget hotel with an excellent hot breakfast. The employees preparing breakfast were friendly and it was fresh—unlike other complementary breakfasts we have experienced. Excellent value!
Mexico
Playa del Carmen – Grand Riviera Princess – All Inclusive
This was my first trip to Mexico and my first all-inclusive resort. The resort is massive with an array of restaurants to suit any tastes. Lots of entertainment to keep anyone busy.
