Top Trending Destinations – May 2014

Hotels from some of Expedia’s top trending destinations for May, 2014

Bovey Castle, Devon UK

The English countryside is the perfect spot for a break from the big city but just because you’re leaving the big smoke doesn’t mean you need to leave your creature comforts behind too. Bovey Castle sits on 275 acres inside Dartmoor National Park and has 64 rooms and 14 lodges, a championship golf course, day spa, restaurant and resident falconer. And for kids – LEGO room service!

Hotel Unique, Sao Paulo, Brazil

There’s nothing cookie cutter about the culture in Sao Paulo so why should your hotel be any different? At Hotel Unique, the walls are curved, the furniture is funky and the vibe is very, very cool. Architect Ruy Ohtake and interior designer Joao Armentano are responsible for this striking ship-like structure that has become a local landmark. It’s too cool to miss so start your sightseeing by checking in here.

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, New Zealand

Yes there is more to Queenstown than ski slopes. At the Hilton, you can enjoy the après lifestyle without having to hit the slopes. Sitting right on the banks of Lake Wakatipu, the hotel is away from the hustle and bustle of the ski town area but is just a short 10 minute water taxi or 20 minute drive away from the action. The hotel’s three level eforea:spa has plenty of treatment rooms to ease any post-ski aches and the fire pits at the Wakatipu Grill are always popular.

The Westin Miyako, Kyoto, Japan

When in Rome… you don’t go to Kyoto without getting a huge culture fix. Japan’s ancient capital is steeped in history, from the many temples to the tiny alleyways. The Westin Miyako sits on the hills of Higashiyama, the city’s temple district. Book into one of the hotel’s Japanese rooms and try sleeping on a Tatami mat for the night. Don’t worry, there are plenty of rooms with normal beds if the idea of sleeping on the floor (on a very comfortable padded mat) doesn’t appeal.

Silverwater Resort, Phillip Island, Australia

Whether you’re into fast cars or Fairy Penguins (now called Little Penguins!), Phillip Island is worth a visit. Just a two hour drive south east of Melbourne, the island is a big kids play ground, with plenty of outdoor activities, wineries and restaurants to explore. Silverwater Resort’s seven hectares sit above San Remo – a great spot as a base for a few days. The resort’s one, two and three bedroom apartments have BBQs and kitchens, so you can eat out or cook in style.