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The main attraction at Changi International Airport in Singapore is not its fancy duty free shops, state of the art lounges, or its fancy architecture – but its art sculpture.

“Kinetic Rain” was created by Berlin Firm ART+COM. It consists of two sets of 608 suspended raindrops made from lightweight aluminum covered in copper and is computationally controlled by complex programming and computers. Each raindrop weighs 180 grams (6.3 oz) and is suspended by a thin wire. These beautiful raindrops are raised and lowered in a 15-minute computationally designed choreography controlled from motors embedded in the ceiling. The raindrops morph into different shapes such as airplanes, kites or hot air balloons.

 

This unique moving sculpture was installed in early July 2012 in the Departure-Check-in hall of Terminal 1 of Singapore Changi Airport.

According to Art+Com, the sculpture “aims to be a source of identity for its location, and provides a moment for passengers to contemplate and reflect.”

 

I’d like to take credit and say that I discovered this incredibly decadent hotel after a long, exhaustive research. But the truth is, a friend I was traveling with booked it for us.

When my friend Ethan told me that he has booked our hotel, I immediately asked for the website. “You don’t understand Ethan,” I warned him, “I want something straight out of the ‘King and I’ set … I want a hotel that has Balinese charm, but with Western amenities.” Sure enough, Arma Hotel Bali provided both. Arma Resort is what you have envisioned your magical Balinese vacation to be (and more).

ARMA RESORT offers beautiful, comfortable accommodations in a serene and lush environment. The resort is set amidst 10 acres (4 hectares) of landscaped gardens, rice fields, lotus ponds, pools, stream and fountains. This place truly reflects the essence of Bali in sights, sounds, smells and tastes.

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What are you looking to do on your vacation? Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, adventure, beach & sun, casinos, fabulous resort, family trip, relaxation, spas, architectural wonders, ancient cities, skiing, food tripping or shopping, there are many amazing options for all interests and budgets.

Perhaps one of these images I took from around the world can help you decide where to spend your vacation. (Not in any particular order)

 

1) ROME, ITALY: Pilgrimage, museums and great food

 

2) BALI, INDONESIA: Fabulous (and inexpensive) hotels/villas, spas, family getaway and relaxing vacation

 

3) VENICE, ITALY: Romantic getaway and great food

 

4) LAKE LOUISE, CANADA: Picturesque landscape, road trip, hiking and majestic mountains

 

5) NAPA, CALIFORNIA: Great wine and cuisine and beautiful scenery

 

6) PALAWAN, PHILIPPINES: Beaches, snorkeling, family trip, and diving

7) LONDON, ENGLAND: Architecture, history and art

 

8) MARRAKESH, MORROCO, : Adventure, fabulous hotels and landscape

 

9) SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA : Wonderful shopping, cool restaurants and landmarks

 

10) RONDA, SPAIN: Great weather, architecture, and breathtaking mountains and beaches

 

11) CARMEL, CALIFORNIA: Dramatic shoreline, world-famous golf, and spas

 

12) CANCUN. MEXICO : Adventure, parties, beautiful beaches and pyramids

 

13) LAKE COMO, ITALY : Outlet shopping, picturesque lakes and alps, wonderful architecture

 

14) ZURICH, SWITZERLAND: Picturesque city, great people watching and beautiful lakes

 

15) SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA: Hot surfers, great beaches and party town!

 

16) SALZBURG, AUSTRIA: Beautiful town, quaint shops, charming architecture and history

 

17) BEIJING, CHINA: Great Wall of China and Olympic Village, and culture

 

18) GRAND CANYON, NEVADA : Nature, landscape, road trip and family trip

 

19) SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA: Adventure, cultural immersion, religious trip and relaxation

 

 

20) OIA, GREECE: Breathtaking landscape, beach, sailing, food trip and relaxation

I’ve stayed at a lot of hotel rooms and Bungalow 232 at the

intercontinental Hotel Thalasso Bora Bora is by far the most beautiful one!

While prices vary depending on the season, it averages at $700-$1,500/night.

Is it worth it? Most definitely! Let me show you around my room!

The El Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookstore located at 1860 Sante Fe Ave, Buenos Aires, Argentina is not your ordinary bookstore. It has been voted one of the most beautiful bookshop in the world.

What makes this bookstore unique? It opened as a theater called Teatro Gran Splendid in May 1919 and in February 2000, the building was renovated and converted into a book and music shop. With 21,000 square feet of retail space, it welcomes over a million guests each year from all over the world.

The cinema seating was removed and in its place book shelves were installed. The stage is now a coffee shop (You have to try their meat empanadas! They are to die for!). The box office is now a cashier.

Upon entry, you step up into what used to be a large performing arts venue. The main floor is split wide open by the staircase down to the music and children’s section. The upper levels have a smaller rotunda and then an open section facing the main stage.

Despite the renovation, the architect was able to maintain the grand elements of the theater – The frescoes on the ceiling, the ornate carvings, the grand staircase, the crimson stage curtains, the auditorium lighting and many architectural details remain. The building still retains the feeling of the grand theatre it once was.

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I was on a road trip with my family across Italy when we booked Park Palace.  Upon entry to the lobby, we can’t help but be awed by the grandness of the villa. It was truly a jaw-dropping experience.

Surrounded by the Tuscan hills, Park Palace is a historic Florentine villa offering 26 lovely rooms, well-kept pool, manicured lawns and enough parking for your entourage. The place is so peaceful, you wouldn’t know that you’re just a 5 minute bus ride from central Florence (or a short 20 minute walk to Florence’s Cathedral, Uffizi Gallery, Boboli Gardens and Ponte Vecchio).

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Upon exiting the airport, the Intercon Bora Bora’s staff took my luggage and walked me to the private boat 20 steps away. From there, they whisked me to hotel across the blue lagoon; the view was spectacular, I couldn’t believe my eyes. I have been around the world yet I have never seen islands this beautiful.

 

Upon arrival at the resort, two muscular men partially covered in Tahitian tattoos and wearing grass skirts welcomed us by blowing Conch Shell horn to announce my arrival. I can truly say I have never been welcomed at a hotel like that. (Wish every hotel did that. LOL).

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I did not have Milos on my radar but it was included in Travel and Leisure Magazine’s 25 Best Islands in the world. So I re-routed my trip to include this somewhat secluded island in Greece.

I did not disappoint. The island is a bit sleepy with a almost half of the island without roads or access. Many of its beaches are empty. You can have an entire cove to yourself. It is beautiful and unique.

The crowd here is more upscale than normal because it is not a party island. (Think Tommy Hilfiger get up). People come here to avoid the loud music and Ibiza-like crowd. There are many yacht owners whi visit the island- casual yet chic.

Hotels run the gamut from inexpensive to luxurious. (But not quite as luxurious as Santorini hotels).

If you’re looking for a “new” island that is off the beaten path- give this amazing island a try.