We have asked New York based Sarah and Lindsay of  boutique travel company Compass + Twine, to share their thoughts with us about their love for boutique hotels, and Amberlair, of course. And before you ask, a #BohoLover is a Boutique Hotel lover… just like us!

Sarah and Lindsay of Compass + Twine

How do you choose a hotel when you travel?

Local character. We love to find a well-managed hotel that gives you a true sense of the place you’re visiting. Also, good location and quality bed linens may seem like obvious answers, but they can make or break an experience. In general, you can tell a lot about a place based off the initial reservation experience, so we like to book over the phone with boutiques. The call tends to route directly to the hotel instead of a central booking line, enabling you to ask questions, get a sense of the hospitality, and request insight on recommended local spots to check out.

If you had to choose 3, which were the most special (boutique) hotels you have ever stayed at?

Casa San Agustin in Cartagena, Colombia
The breath-taking courtyard pool and charming colonial character of Casa San Agustin.

Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport, Maine
The basket of hot coffee and pastries delivered to your cottage each morning at Hidden Pond.

Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport, Maine. Photo by hotel.

The Inn at Windmill Lane in the Hamptons, NY
The luxurious, well-appointed rooms at the Inn at Windmill lane; with a private fireplace, Duxiana bed, Matouk linens, and spacious marble bathroom with steam and rain showers, you won’t want to leave.

Inn Windmill Lane. Photo by hotel.

If you had your own boutique hotel, what 3 things would you make sure existed?

• We tend to fall in love with properties that have an open-air design element to them or seamless indoor/outdoor flow. In particular to the outside area, you can never go wrong with a picturesque setting for sunset cocktails.
• Top-notch service is instrumental to a good experience. When employees are professional, welcoming and invested in their establishment, it shows.
• A statement tub or rain shower is always a fun amenity. Upon walking into a room, one of the first things we do is peak into the bathroom, as if expecting some sort of surprise. It never fails to excite when there is one.

Name 3 things you loved in hotels you stayed in before…

1. Boutiques like the Modern Honolulu in Hawaii or Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego have embraced the two-pool concept. We appreciate the option to either play with our nieces and nephews in the family pool or spend a relaxing afternoon lounging by the adults-only pool.
2. To be out in nature in a beautiful location is unbeatable. We love that hotels like the Spruceton Inn in the Catskills and Hidden Pond in Maine have outfitted their properties with fire pits for guests to soak in the stars, roast s’mores and swap stories with fellow travelers.
3. A good turndown service is a nice and appreciated extra touch. The Lodge at Torrey Pines and the Banyan Tree Mayakoba leave behind different items on your pillow each night, from lavender face spray to locally made goodies and note with tomorrow’s forecast.

Name 3 things you wouldn’t want to experience in a hotel ever again.

Dirty rooms or bathrooms take the cake. Otherwise, it can be disappointing when housekeeping hasn’t come after a long day out or room-service dining options are lacking. There also seems to be a new trend of having duvets, only, as a bed cover. Yikes. Duvets can get warm, but we mainly want a top sheet as an extra layer of clean linen.

How do you feel about the Amberlair concept?

Brilliantly interactive, the Amberlair concept feels like the next step in the evolution of boutique hotels. It’s like sourcing all the best practices and take-aways from avid travellers and then making them come to life in one idyllic property.

Where are you off to next?

We can’t wait to visit the Carneros Inn in Napa Valley next month. After that we hope to check out Mukul in Nicaragua, Cuixmala in Mexico and Cuba sometime soon.

Sarah and Lindsay are the owners of the boutique travel company, Compass + Twine. While their respective backgrounds are in the financial industry and media, it was their shared love for travel that prompted them to create their own business, driven by their passion. After dozens of inquires from family and friends to assist with trip planning, the pair merged their skills and C+T was born.

Compass + Twine, based in New York City, plans tailored trips for their clients all across the globe. They use their website as a place to share a curated list of their favorite finds, hoping to inspire others along the way. The pair is always looking to experience the true character of a place, from finding a charming boutique hotel run by a local family, to the hole in the wall wine bar where all the neighborhood chefs go on their night off. They design trips for clients which are inspired by local insight and experiences.

Keep up with Sarah & Lindsay on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram .

We have asked Gabriella Truman, founder of Explorateur Journeys, an international travel concierge service, to share her thoughts with us about her love for hotels, and Amberlair, of course. And before you ask, a #BohoLover is a Boutique Hotel lover… just like us!

How do you choose a hotel when you travel?

For me, it’s all about a hotel’s personality.   I have to feel some sort of emotion when looking at a property- naturally location plays a huge part especially when I am traveling on business, but overall I search for a place with a soul, that reaches me in some way. Perhaps it’s the décor that appeals or  the vibe that comes across in the way they present themselves. Being an avid traveler for most of my life, I’ve learned to develop an immediate sense whereas I am struck right away by a hotel’s character and ability to be flexible,  entirely consumed with a guest.  All the while not taking themselves too seriously, I love bit of a cheeky sense of humor in a hotel’s attitude. I love being pampered, but in a relaxed atmosphere that isn’t extremely stiff or formal.

If you had to choose 3, which were the most special (boutique) hotels you have ever stayed at?

Illyria House in Pretoria, South Africa
This hotel simply cannot be accurately described, it’s one of those true experiences that is only completely understood once felt, touched, and seen. The hotel is a former residence of a local artist that has been transformed into a majestic Victorian-era retreat with so many special touches it’s difficult to list them all.

An ever-smiling staff that cannot do enough for you is what you see right upon arrival, all the way through until they are singing warm African songs to you as you depart. There are magical gardens and an open, grand yard at the back where the outdoor tables overlook, with small spa treatment rooms carefully hidden in the vegetation, and every room in this property is uniquely decorated with special elements hand selected by the owner.

Bath baubles in crystal glassware, an antique scale carfully balancing fruit and nuts to enjoy with a glass of brandy, even small little inspirational notes and Shakespearean quotes carefully tucked under your pillow when you return in the evening and once in a while, a local pianist coming in to perform for the guests on the property’s special piano. Just incredibly unique.

Illyria House, South Africa. Photo by hotel.

Casa da Calcada in Amarante, Portugal
What I experienced here was complete and total relaxation, with a dose of disconnection even for a short period and that is what I remember most. It was for many reasons, starting with a stunning pool area with impressive views of the colorful buildings and orange-tiled rooftops in the hills surrounding the area, the beautiful rooms with gorgeous little touches and sitting areas with impressive pieces of art and history reflective of the grandeur of centuries past, as this is a former palace.

The service is excellent but when you get to the food, it’s a whole other level. We indulged in a wonderful tasting menu at the Michelin-starred restaurant and were even treated to a visit to their esteemed wine room which really rounded out the experience. Regal and royal without feeling too overly formal, they achieved the perfect balance of luxury and comfort in a fairytale-like village.

Casa da Calçada, Portugal. Photo by hotel.

Villa Spalletti Trivelli in Rome, Italy
Just about everything made this experience so special- the staff was extremely warm and the service was so personalized, we were all greeted by name every time and the décor, including the room product is just over the top stunning without being too formal. It’s housed in a former residence so you instantly feel regal upon walking in, and there are so many touches that I recall so fondly.

One being a small doorbell on various tables throughout- in the sitting rooms, in the breakfast room and so forth with little signs that reuest you “ring for service”, and they are truly at your beckon call no matter where you are on property. Nightly, a complimetnary bar service is set up, with lovely snacks – all meant to be enjoyed in a lovely private garden or one of the gorgeous drawing rooms and it just makes one feel quite fabulous.

Villa Spalletti Trivelli in Rome, Italy. Photo by hotel.

If you had your own boutique hotel, what 3 things would you make sure existed?

I’d  take everything I have ever loved both at home and in properties around the world, and pour it into my boutique hotel experience with things like:

• I’d create a signature scent for my hotel…which could only be acquired at the hotel.  It’s something that guests would get used to smelling while on property, and we’d send them home with a small bottle of it. When they return home, they’d be able to experience it and daydream about their memories of the hotel experience, and we’d remain present in their minds, hopefully making them happy each time.
• A true sense of place- depending on the location , it would be extremely critical for me to have the guest feel like a local, and be able to experience the culture whether the stay is brief or extended. Things like complimentary tastings of local specialties would be offered, perhaps we’d bring in a local dancer or musician for a traditional performance, and so forth. I would want them to really be able to remember how they felt and what they learned during their stay with us.
• Fantastic child-friendly amenities. I’m a mom and nothing makes me happier than when my daughter is happy and treated like a VIP.  Small robes, little gifts left in the room, surprise toys and things of this nature make a child smile and feel so extremely welcome…

Name 3 things you loved in hotels you stayed in before…

1. Feeling like a rock-star…nothing makes me feel as good as when I walk around a property and I am greeted by name when someone says hello…it shows they have taken the time to see me, learn who I am, and acknowledge me as an esteemed guest no matter how long or short my stay. It’s always impressive and surprising, and makes me happy every time it happens.
2. Surprises that make life so much more convenient while in a hotel- this could be from fabulous complimentary coffee and fruit water flowing freely in the lobby with a great soundtrack playing in the background, to little gifts being left in your room “ just because “ ,  ample charging stations or electrical outlets in convenient locations in the room to charge all of one’s devices, to unexpected upgrades on arrival. Hotels that mix it up and surprise me, remain in my mind and are the ones that I tend to talk about the most.
3. Complimentary mini-bar filled with fun items. Most guests find it ridiculous to pay $8 for a bottle of water, or $5 for a pack of M&Ms and I am no exception. These are little touches that, when provided as part of the standard boutique hotel experience, make a guest feel almost giddy and it’s such a simple thing to do….

Name 3 things you wouldn’t want to experience in a hotel ever again.

1. Wi-Fi that isn’t free. It’s not the money, it’s the concept- it’s something we all need, it helps encourage us to share our experiences at a hotel and should always be complimentary in my opinion.
2. An uncomfortable bed. To me, hotels should offer an elevated sense of your normal everyday life- there is no substitute for a good night’s sleep and absolutely critical to have ultra-comfortable mattresses and fabulous sheets. A hotel bed should at least be as good, or better than the one you have at home!
3. A bad welcome and poor first impression… a smiling, warm, friendly staff makes all the difference and when that’s not there, the entire guest experience is altered  from thereon in. The first moment is critical and I love it when it’s done right.

How do you feel about the Amberlair concept?

I am enchanted by the concept and it goes along with everything I believe about the hotel experience- so much of it should be driven by the guest- what they want, what they demand, listening to their needs and working to build the experience centered around that idea.  I actually can’t wait to see the first product come to fruition and to experience it myself. Quite revolutionary- well done!

Where are you off to next?

Well, right now I’m actually in London, after this I’ll be headed to the Galapagos in December which I am incredibly excited about…to submerse myself in such an otherworldly destination. For New Year’s, I’ll return to London with my family to enjoy some festivities with dear friends and of course  bit of shopping, high tea, we’ll take in a performance and likely head out to the Cotswolds for a bit as well.

Gabriella Truman was born, quite simply, with travel in her blood. Literally! With Portuguese and Italian ancestry and a firmly American state of mind, the spirit of adventure defines her. That’s why it makes perfect sense that she’s founded Explorateur Journeys, an international travel concierge service that plans dream trips and unforgettable experiences for its globetrotting clientele.

Gabriella is also an avid travel blogger in her own right, sharing insights from her travels that take her around the world year after year for both business and pleasure. Nevertheless, she still finds time to work actively with an orphanage in South Africa, raising funds and assisting with securing volunteer doctors to provide medical care for children in need.

What Gabriella can’t resist? The New York Yankees, James Bond thrillers, family and great food, international spy novels, Sunday night dinners, soccer, 80’s throwback movies, bulldogs, and — of course — an unforgettable adventure.

You can find Gabriella on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram as well as Pinterest.

We asked Vicky Legg of Thrive Communications, to share her thoughts on hotels and Amberlair. She is a #BoHoLover, Boutique Hotel Lover – just like us!

How do you choose a hotel when you travel?

Having been fortunate enough to have worked in the travel industry for so long, I am always reading, listening and filing away little nuggets of information about where to go and where to stay.  I have certain travel writers and bloggers whose opinions I trust, but I tend to steer clear of anything labeled ‘hot’ or ‘trendy’.  I will leave those places to the hipsters who want to see and be seen.  What I am looking for is something informal and laid back, in a great location, with great food and a cocoon of luxury and service that I can’t get at home or from a cookie cutter hotel where the rules cannot be changed, even for the guest.

If you had to choose 3, which were the most special hotels you have ever stayed at? 

Belmond Hotel Splendido – it has the prettiest, conversation-stopping view down over Portofino harbour that you could drink in all day.  And the fact that you never arrive at the Splendido without hearing laughter.

Belmond Hotel in Portofino,Italy. Photo by hotel.

Belmond Hotel room in Portofino, Italy. Photo by hotel.

The Hell Bay Hotel on Bryher in the Isles of Scilly – you feel part of the community here and it is so laid back.  They recently introduced the Crab Shack.  It literally is just a shack, with chickens wandering about, but the most mouth-watering crabs prepared freshly that would rival anything in a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Las Casitas del Colca- hidden away in Peru’s Colca Canyon – it is special because it is run by people so passionate about the hotel and the region and you really feel like you are at home.  It’s warm by day and you can see the condors fly up on the thermals, then at night temperatures drop and you go back to your little casita to find a burning log fire and a little hot water bottle in your bed.  If you are feeling very adventurous, you can pop into your own private heated plunge pool and watch the stars.

Las Casitas del Colca in Peru. Photo by hotel.

If you had your own boutique hotel, what 3 things would you make sure existed?

• A roll top bath with a view, be it of the ocean, a sunset or a passing herd of elephant
• Great coffee, freshly made, in a cafetiere that actually stays hot
• The opportunity to always discover or try something new.  I was recently at a resort called NIZUC in Mexico, which had the most incredible breakfast, with informative chefs on hand to encourage you or try a homemade tortilla garnished with habanero chili that can only be found in the Yucatan

Name 3 things you loved in hotels you stayed in before…

1. Toiletries that actually need proving thought has gone into the process, particularly as a woman.  We need hair conditioner and eye make up remover!
2. Morning tea at the Mount Nelson in Cape Town – a groaning table of savories for those mid-morning munchies
3. Great coffee and a quiet space in which to linger over it

Vicky Legg with champagne at Orient Express.

Name 3 things you wouldn’t want to experience in a hotel ever again.

Over-attentive management – I had a terrible experience with a very over-enthusiastic boutique B&B owner who lurked about waiting for us to come through the door and even texted us while we were out to ask what time we would be home in the evening.  It was like living with your parents!  Other horrors include an empty breakfast buffet and feeling like you have outstayed your welcome after checkout.  In the Outback of Australia we had an hotelier banging on our door asking us to leave at two minutes past the designated hour.  Our last impression was not good!

How do you feel about the Amberlair concept?

Mostly I think “at last!” My friends and I are always playing ‘fantasy hotel’ and talk about what we would and, most importantly, would not have. I am thrilled that Italy is the first location and can’t wait to visit.

Where are you off to next?

Myanmar – to try out the new river cruiser by Yangon’s Strand Hotel, a 113-year-old boutique hotel that is still reinventing itself.

Vicky Legg spent two decades working for, and ultimately leading, the global PR team for Orient-Express Hotels, a collection of luxury hotel and travel experiences, a role which took her on countless adventures through the good, the bad and the ugly of hotels worldwide.

They say that the more you see of the world, the more your appetite for adventure grows, and despite repeatedly falling in love with many of the world’s most iconic hotels and heart-stoppingly beautiful destinations in her prior role, the lure of a new challenge and adventure became too much and Vicky Legg established Thrive Communications, her own independent PR agency, in January 2015.

Vicky Legg can be found tweeting and on Instagram.

You voted for Italy as the location of the world’s first crowdsourced boutique hotel – and we must confess, we are absolutely delighted with the choice. Italy is a stunning part of the world with so much to discover – and if you read one of our previous manifestos for the destination, you will understand why. 

But now the real work begins, and this is where it gets exciting (really exciting!). Where in Italy should the first Amberlair be located? We asked some of our #boholovers (aka boutique hotel lovers) and there doesn’t seem to be a consensus… because Italy is that amazing. Shall we hear what they have to say? We look forward to your thoughts, so do leave a comment, or share your ideas on our profiles on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram!

Read part 1 and part 2 of this series and find out where else in Italy our #boholovers would like us to go!

M&K

“Italy is easily one of my favorite destinations thanks to the incredible diversity of experiences available there. From a laid-back, Mediterranean vibe in the south to the arts and culture capitals of the north, there seems to be no end to activities. My favorite region is Bologna and the surrounding towns and villages that make it a fun and delicious part of Italy. Called the stomach of the country, some of those classic Italian dishes we all know and love originated from this region and to discover quiet little trattorias serving up some of the best food in the art is a personal treat.

My demand of any new hotel isn’t just free WiFi, but free AND fast WiFi. We’re all overly connected today and all of us, no matter our budgets, demand on WiFi when we travel to stay in touch not only with work but loved ones at home. This should be a basic item at any hotel, especially one that was created via technology.” – Matthew, Land Lopers

Matt, Land Lopers

“While I wouldn’t call it regularly, Italy is probably the European country I’ve been to the most. I’ve been four times in the past ten years and I think what makes it so special is how every place is different. It’s incredible, driving just a few hours takes you to an entirely different world. It’s such a magical place. Oh, and did I mention the spritzs? That might be my number one favorite thing!

I’m obsessed with the Prosecco wine region – just an hour north of Venice, which I also adore. One hour away takes you from one of the most touristy regions in Italy to one of the least. You can visit some of the most incredible restaurants and charming B&Bs. 

Katie, Traveling Panties

I think the first Amberlair hotel should be in Cinque Terre, because I need another reason to go back – another one of my favorite regions.

The one thing I would ‘demand’ for the first Amberlair hotel would depend on where it ends up being located but technology is a bit behind at many hotels in italy. I would say having state of the art technology like high powered hairdryers, light up makeup mirrors, and plenty of plugs (adapters are a bonus).” – Katie, Traveling Panties.

Anna, Penelope & Parker’s travels

“I love Italy – such a lot of coastline, the mozzarella is actually made with buffalo milk (unlike in the UK), in Venice the prosecco is cheaper than water, places like Sardinia and Lake Garda always deliver perfect champagne sailing conditions and the country is just dripping with gorgeous scenery, wine regions, culture and architecture and the language is beautiful (not that I can speak it)! I have loved my work trips over there too – ‘but first coffee’ is a phrase I am familiar with, more time drinking espresso than getting work done! My favourite place so far is actually Venice out of season – because it is the sort of place I could visit time and again and still discover something new just by following my nose. I also particularly like that there are no cars, everything is by boat and that just a short ride away are some gorgeous islands without the hustle and bustle.

I haven’t been to Puglia or to Tuscany, but from what I have seen these are some of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas of the country and lucky to have so much choice of fine wine and fantastic dining. Everything I’ve read about the concept and knowing all the people that have already shown interest, this part of Italy just feels like it fits well! I can’t pin point one thing I really want the AmberLair to have but I sincerely hope that it makes the most of its location in a sympathetic way – I’m thinking rustic chic, quiet terraces, an infinity edge pool and plenty of private space out of doors to enjoy the view and soak up the sun. Let me know when I can book my flights…” Anna, Penelope & Parker’s travels

Victoria, Thrive Communications

“Italia! Bravissimo! I can’t wait to visit Amberlair’s first outpost. Italy is such a tonic. Close enough for a weekend away, yet a technicolor world away from grey old London. I have had the privilege of visiting Italy many times for work and play – from Venice and Milan, to Florence, Portofino, Sicily and the Amalfi Coast. Flight schedules are vitally important and I do study them before deciding where to go. You need a flight that arrives and departs at a reasonable hour to make the most of any visit. I would love to explore more of the South East of Italy around Bari and Brindisi, purely as they are new to me and I hear such great things. I would love my Amberlair to have a view and also be close enough in any village or town for me to wander slowly down to have a coffee with the locals and people watch.” Victoria Legg, Thrive Communications

Nyssa, The Cultureur

“Who doesn’t love Italy? That’s completely a rhetorical question because I’d rather not meet the sole individual who doesn’t have a lasting affair with one of the most beautiful countries on this planet. I admit – I don’t visit as often as I’d like, but mostly because our world is so big and there are so many destinations I want to see for the first time before returning to tried and tested places. But I do try to get back every few years, if possible. I feel fortunate to have covered much of the country, from the picturesque Cinque Terre to the chic urbanscape of Milan. The food is otherworldly – incredibly delicious and flavorful and the people are beyond lovely and friendly.
I’m a big city girl so I love Rome, Florence, and Milan – the fashion, the architecture, the history, the culture, all of it. But I could never deny the beauty of the Tuscan countryside or the Amalfi Coast when I’m in the mood for the country’s natural wonders.
The first Amberlair hotel should be in one of the big cities because the true test of innovation is when it’s pitted against competitors in a saturated market and it still emerges as one of the winners. I think the idea of a crowdsourced luxury boutique hotel is fantastic, and one that will be received well from the modern luxury traveler. One thing that Amberlair must have to stand out in the sea of luxury hotels is a heightened awareness and implementation of technology, from the pre-arrival process to check-out. This goes beyond the use of social media and the latest gadgets – the goal should be a seamless modern experience, addressing needs before they even arise.” Nyssa, The Cultureur

So the question we ask you is… what do you think of our #boholovers suggestions? Where would you like the first Amberlair to be located?

You voted for Italy as the location of the world’s first crowdsourced boutique hotel – and we must confess, we are absolutely delighted with the choice. Italy is a stunning part of the world with so much to discover – and if you read one of our previous manifestos for the destination, you will understand why. 

But now the real work begins, and this is where it gets exciting (really exciting!). Where in Italy should the first Amberlair be located? We asked some of our #boholovers (aka boutique hotel lovers) and there doesn’t seem to be a consensus… because Italy is that amazing. Shall we hear what they have to say? We look forward to your thoughts, so do leave a comment, or share your ideas on our profiles on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram!

M&K

Molly Schoneveld in Capri

Molly Schoneveld of This Yuppie Life, from Los Angeles says, “I wish I visited Italy regularly! My husband and I last visited two years ago, and it was one of our favorite vacations. We loved Sorrento/Capri equally as much as we loved Tuscany, but for very different reasons. In Sorrento, we stayed in one of my favorite hotels ever—the Bellevue Syrene, that felt like it was out of a movie. We splurged on a private boat tour around Capri and it was heaven. In Tuscany, we fell in love with the generous people and the laid back lifestyle. We drank wine with a winemaker in Chianti, who didn’t speak a world of English (or us, Italian) but we managed to understand each other perfectly. I would love to see the first Amberlair hotel in Florence. We weren’t wowed by the hotel options there or the luxury boutique hotel we chose to make our home base. In terms of special features, since we are talking Italy, the one thing I would demand is a concierge who truly understands hospitality and can offer suggestions that are not tourist traps—we never had that in any Italian hotel—even a 5-star hotel in Rome.” Discover Molly’s blog, right here.

Nancy Besharah, Luxe Travel Family

Nancy Besharah, of Luxe Travel Family visits Italy as often as possible. According to her, “there is a richness to the culture, history, geography, language, and architecture that leaves (her) wanting more Italy in my life. Traditions like aperitivo – happy hour but better – followed me home, and Italian words like meloni, ciao, and buona sera are part of the family vocabulary. Northern Italy is home to favourite places including Venice, Milano and the Dolomites. Venice is unique and spectacular – there is nothing like it. Milano offers everything you could ask for in an urban setting, including proximity to the magnificent Dolomites, my vote for the location of the first Amberlair property. If I could ask for anything in the Amberlair hotel, it would be a pool – fun for the entire family.” Discover Nancy’s blog, right here.

Suze, The Luxury Columnist at Amalfi Coast

Suze, of the Luxury Columnist has been to Italy twice this year – to Rome and to the Amalfi Coast. ‘There are so many great things about Italy, the cuisine, the architecture and the outgoing people.  I particularly like the Italian lakes, the scenery is beautiful and there are some amazing restaurants overlooking the water. The Amalfi Coast would be a good choice for the first Amberlair hotel. Whilst there are many stunning traditional hotels, a boutique hotel with a contemporary feel would definitely add something new to the mix. The possibility to check in online and to choose from a range of complimentary options such as music playing in your room and type of pillow would be fantastic for the first Amberlair hotel.” Discover Suze’s blog, right here.

Jayne, Girl Tweets World

Jayne, of Girl Tweets World, the Londoner who moved to Sydney used to visit Italy all the time as a child, as her Dad loved driving there and them kids enjoyed eating all the food. She said, ‘Italian is still my favourite cuisine and I love how each region has it’s own speciality. I think the first Amberlair property should be in Florence – a city of magnificent art and architecture – on the doorstep of the vineyards of Tuscany. The first Amberlair hotel should be smart. I like places that pay attention to details: plug sockets near the bed or lighting turned off via a master switch. It should also have free wi-fi and if possible, (something which I saw recently at a hotel in Thailand), a smart phone loaded up with data and local guides to help guests navigate the city.” Discover Jayne’s blog, right here.

Becky, Global Grasshopper

Becky & Graham, of Global Grasshopper have visited Italy many times over the years. “The food, the people, the beautiful natural scenery, the cosmopolitan cities, and, of course, the weather, all make it one of the best travel destinations in the world! Lake Garda is one of our favourite places to visit in Italy. Located in northern Italy, about half-way between Brescia and Verona, and between Venice and Milan – it’s one of the most romantic destinations in Italy, if not Europe. Where can you go wrong with a beautiful mountain lake flanked by impossibly gorgeous villages? Each of the lake-side communities are very different and range from a historic town dominated by a medieval castle to a picturesque village brimming with flowers and pastel-coloured houses. Perfection! The first Amberlair hotel should be in the Lakes because it’s easily one of the most idyllic places to visit in the country, very peaceful and chic too! One of the things we would ‘demand’, in terms of special features would be floor to ceiling glass windows in each of the rooms so you can make the most of Italy’s truly stunning natural scenery!” Discover Becky and Gray’s website, right here.

So the question we ask you is… what do you think of our #boholovers suggestions? Where would you like the first Amberlair to be located?