boutique hotels Archives

14 fantastic winter retreats in the Alps for boutique hotel lovers

January 8, 2021/7 Comments/in boutique hotels, traveltheworld /by Marcus & Kristin

Europe has one of the world’s most romantic regions for skiing. The Alps. Here is a list of the most beautiful, cozy and stylish winter retreats, boutique hotels and chalets that reflects the zeitgeist.

Le Chalet Zannier is an elegant and minimalistic designed mountain retreat, nestled in the French Alps in the alpine village of Mègeve with 12 bedrooms. The site has 3 alpine-style chalets, materials used are authentic, natural and imperfect, all furniture pieces are antique and charming.

Chalet Zannier, winter retreats in the European Alps.

Chalet Zannier in Mègeve in the French Alps. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Chalet Zannier, winter retreats in the European Alps.

Chalet Zannier in Mègeve in the French Alps. Photo by hotel.

Whitepod is an Eco-Camp and Luxury Hotel in Valais, Switzerland. The 15 individually decorated geodesic dome pods have been equipped with traditional furnishings, high quality insulation and coupled with a wood burning stove.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel White Pod, winter retreats.

White Pod in Valais, Switzerland. Photo by hotel.

Fermes de Marie is situated in the medieval town center of Megève in France. It has rooms, suites and chalets located in the farm buildings based around a 16th-century cowshed, and a pool set into rocks.

Fermes de Marie in Mègeve, France. Photo by hotel.

Fermes de Marie in Mègeve, France. Photo by hotel.

Fermes de Marie in Megeve, France. Photo by hotel.

Fermes de Marie in Mègeve, France. Photo by hotel.

Haldenhof is a family-run hotel in Lech with 23 individually furnished rooms, most have a balcony. The hotel is decorated in Alpine classic style with many paintings and hunting trophies.

Haldenhof in Lech, Austria. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Haldenhof in Lech, Austria

Haldenhof in Lech, Austria. Photo by hotel.

Jagdgut Wachtelhof is a stylish hunting lodge nestled in the Austrian Alps in the picturesque village of Hinterthal. The enchanting Jagdgut Wachtelhof is designed in an aesthetic mix of traditional Austrian architecture and contemporary style with 17 suite rooms.

Jagdgut Wachtelhof in Austria. Photo by hotel.

Jagdgut Wachtelhof in Austria. Photo by hotel.

Jagdgut Wachtelhof in Austria. Photo by hotel.

Jagdgut Wachtelhof in Austria. Photo by hotel.

Hotel Arlberg in Lech, Austria, is a sophisticated menagerie of original Alpine style melted with an eclectic style of country club, hunting lodge and ski-chalet chic. The boutique hotel interiors are a rich patina of textures bound within scented woods and crafted furnishings.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Arlberg in Lech, Austria.

Hotel Arlberg in Lech. Photo by hotel.

Tennerhof in Austria is designed in classic Alpine style with antique furniture, but there is nothing old-fashioned at this luxury hotel. The spacious rooms are individually designed and elegantly decorated with excellent panoramic views over Kitzbühel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Tennerhof 1

Tennerhof in Kitzbühel, Austria. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Tennerhof 4

Tennerhof in Kitzbühel, Austria. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Tennerhof 3

Tennerhof in Kitzbühel, Austria. Photo by hotel.

Lodge Park in Megève, France, captures the atmosphere of a luxurious hunting lodge. A mix of wood and antique furniture gives the 49 rooms of the Lodge Park a feel with some contemporary touches.

Lodge Park in Mègeve, Austria. Photo by hotel.

Hotellerie de Mascognaz in Champoluc, is a collection of beautifully-restored Italian farmhouses. The small walser hamlet dates back to the 14th century, sitting room with the open fire, comfortable chairs and sofas. The village is able to sleep about 50 people in a half a dozen chalets.

Hotellerie de Mascognaz in Champoluc, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Hotellerie de Mascognaz in Champoluc, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Hotellerie de Mascognaz in Champoluc, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Mama Thresl in Austria is well designed with natural fabrics to form a modern decoration. It offers traditional dishes, homemade pasta and crunchy salads at the foot of the Leoganger Steinberge Mountains.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Mama Thresl, Austria.

Mama Thresl in Austria. Photo by hotel.

Brücke 49 in Switzerland is a fusion of the shades of nature with a sense of the pastoral eclectic charisma. The Alpine styling within this rather smart urban villa of French influence sets a home away from home feeling.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Brücke 49, Switzerland.

Brücke 49. Photo by hotel.

Villa Flor in Switzerland is a representative, patrician house with neoclassical style and Jugendstil ornaments. The House serves 7 guest rooms with unconventional interior architecture and artful furnishing.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Villa Flor, Switzerland.

Villa Flor. Photo by hotel.

Baita 1697 is a 17th century Piedmontese farmhouse in Italy that sleeps 12 adults and 6 kids in 5 master ensuites. The villa has a spacious communal living space with wood-burning open fire.

Baita 1697 in Italy. Photo by hotel.

Baita 1697 in Italy. Photo by hotel.

Baita 1697 in Italy. Photo by hotel.

Der Kirchenwirt in Leogang, anno 1326, with its reduced and spacious white washed rooms combines rustic furnishings with modern decor. The restaurant serves traditional Austrian cuisine and Salzburg specialities.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Der Kirchenwirt, Austria.

Der Kirchenwirt. Photo by hotel.

Thanks for reading. We hope you like our taste and we inspired you for your next trip to the Alps. If you need more inspiration, here is another list of 10 Ski Boutique Hotels for a New Year stay from the Poolside Blog.
Let us know if you can add a gorgeous winter retreat to our list!

Love boutique Hotels? Become a #boholover

December 15, 2020/0 Comments/in #BoHoLover, boutique hotels /by Marcus & Kristin

We have created a community of #boholovers – i.e. boutique hotel lovers from around the world. They know their hotels like no one else – and what needs to change. Are you one of us? Or rather, would you like to become part of this movement? If so, we would love to hear from you and feature you on an upcoming blog post.

In order to be featured, just send us your answers to the questions below (but take some time before responding – don’t just say yes or no or a list of bullet points. Let yourself go, be detailed or poetic. All part of the Amberlair spirit. Also please include a short bio and tell us a bit more about yourself. We will respond back as quickly as possible and will ask you for at least three high res photos with you being the star of one of them.

How do you choose a hotel when you travel?*
If you had to choose 3, which were the most special hotels you have ever stayed at?*
What made them so special?*
If you had your own boutique hotel, what 3 things would you make sure existed?*
Name 3 things you loved in hotels you stayed in before…*
Name 3 things you wouldn’t want to experience in a hotel ever again.*
How do you feel about the Amberlair concept?*
Where are you off to next?*
Images*
Drop files here or

Max. file size: 5 MB, Max. files: 6.
Please add a bio and your social media accounts!*
Email*
Untitled

THANK YOU Cheers, Marcus & Kristin

BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

September 3, 2020/0 Comments/in boutique hotels, traveltheworld /by Marcus & Kristin

Right now, our environmental conscience is bigger than ever. From free-range food to organic cosmetics and energy-saving light bulbs, we’re seeing a great shift in how we are choosing to live. Now, responsible travel is in the spotlight as more and more of us choose to enjoy eco-tourism.

A recent travel survey found that although aspiring eco-travellers want to stay in greener accommodations, they don’t want to sacrifice their plush hotels, meaning that boutique hotels with sustainability programmes are cashing in on this fantastic travel trend. Whilst many of these BoutiquEco hotels dress their re-claimed wood beds with organic silk sheets, we have unearthed some are some that are so luxuriously responsible that even royalty approve. Here are our top picks…

Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood, Thailand

Drift off to sleep in a private clifftop residence or a vast beach-side villa at Soneva Kiri, safe in the knowledge that your impact on the stunning Koh Kood island has been creatively reduced. Sustainable-luxe architecture provides reclaimed wooden verandahs that makes the most of the sea views, whilst environmentally friendly electric buggies (with Rolls Royce Phantom-inspired dashboards) help you get around in bare-foot style.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Soneva Kiri - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Soneva Kiri in Koh Kood. Photo by hotel.

Misool Eco Resort, Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Misool Eco Resort is an exclusive diving paradise in Indonesia and a model for caring for the community it lies within. Surrounded by pristine coral reef, you can eat fresh fish, caught from outside their “No-Take Zone” or take part in a Reef Restoration Experience before sleeping in your luxurious Water Cottage, which rests on stilts in the temperate water.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Misool Eco Resort - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Misool Eco Resort in Raja Ampat . Photo by hotel.

Bambu Indah, Bali

Serving organically grown produce that’s picked fresh every day, Bambu Indah invites you to stay in one of its eleven “recycled” teak bridal homes, brought to this Bali from Java, where they were crafted over 100 years ago. After swimming in the chemical-free pool and dining on exclusive meals created from time-honoured recipes, guests are encouraged to learn about sustainable bamboo architecture on a Green Village Tour.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Bambu Indah - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Bambu Indah in Bali. Photo by hotel.

Lion Sands Game Reserve, South Africa

As one of South Africa’s most exclusive game reserves, Lion Sands offers an incredible boutique experience where personal butlers serve your every need in romantic treehouse-style lodges. In addition, this reserve supports the Bhubezi Community Projects trust, which works to provide families with better education, living standards and healthcare.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Lion Sands - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Lion Sands in South Africa. Photo by hotel.

Mnemba Island, Tanzania

This “award-winning barefoot beach paradise” on one of Zanzibar’s pristine, white-sand beach islands, will help you return to source in unrivalled style. Like all of &Beyond’s properties, Mnemba Island is built with a small environmental footprint and its tours and safaris exist to educate as well as delight. This boutique hotel works with its community development partner, Africa Foundation, to empower communities and promote conservation.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Mnemba Island Zanzibar - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Mnemba Island in Zanzibar. Photo by hotel.

Adrere Amellal, Siwa, Egypt

Resting in the Siwa Oasis, Adrere Amellal offers a unique boutique hotel experience deep in the Egyptian desert. Free from the electrical hum of 21st century life, each candle-lit building is crafted from the surrounding earth, enabling it to blend perfectly into its environment, cocooning its guests in an all-natural calm.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Adrere Amellal - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Adrere Amellal in Siwa. Photo by hotel.

Laguna Lodge, Guatemala

Set in its own nature reserve, Laguna Lodge perches on the edge of the sublime Lake Atitlan, where volcano views are enjoyed with a glass of delicious organic wine from your minibar (powered by renewable energy from 180 solar panels). Rooms are decorated with superb indigenous antiques and Maya weavings, rainwater is harvested, the gardens are filled with edible plants and absolutely everything is recycled, composted or re-used.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Laguna Lodge - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Laguna Lodge in Guatemala. Photo by hotel.

Blancaneaux Lodge, Belize

The peaceful Blancaneaux Lodge in Belize has its sustainable tourism practices verified by the Rainforest Alliance. In strong support of the country’s commitment to eco-tourism, this exclusive Family Coppola resort combines a love for beautiful design with a passion for progressive sustainable practices. Elegant dwellings are cooled by clever ventilation, plush sheets are washed in biodegradable detergents and vegetables for the restaurant are picked from the hotel’s organic garden.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Blancaneaux Lodge - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Blancaneaux Lodge in Belize. Photo by hotel.

Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa, Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

From intelligently designed spaces to the use of solar energy, Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa enables you to take in the majestic splendour of Torres del Paine from your bed, your private bath or the indulgent Uma Spa. This minimalist boutique hotel features luxurious Patagonian textiles and proudly supports Reforest Patagonia, which aims to plant 1,000,000 trees in Chilean Patagonia.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Tierra Patagonia - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Tierra Patagonia in Chile. Photo by hotel.

Hotel Endemico, Ensenada, Mexico

Hotel Endemico is a collection of twenty luxurious cabins, designed by Gracia Studio and built by a team of local tradesmen to offer unobstructed views of Mexico’s wine region. Blending in seamlessly with the breathtaking landscape, these wooden pods provide you with a personal and private space to relax in, complete with a Mexican Kiva.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Endemico- BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Endemico in Mexico. Photo by hotel.

Uxua, Bahia, Brazil

Artisanal, authentic and sustainable all perfectly describe the rustic elegance of Uxua hotel in Trancoso, southern Bahia. A place of inspiration and tranquility for the global art community, this boutique beach hotel provides organic spa treatments with its potent signature ingredient, Almescar resin. It also offers Capoeira classes with 100% of the class fees going to Trancoso’s Capoeira Sul da Bahia academy.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Uxua - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Uxua in Brazil. Photo by hotel.

Treehotel, Sweden

Offering a truly unique collection of treehouse lodgings for you to escape to, Treehotel is Sweden’s most magical boutique hotel. Never losing style over sustainability, this imaginative woodland retreat lets you dream as you’re suspended up to six metres off the ground. The structures are built on live trees without destroying the tree, hardly ever affecting the natural surroundings at all.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Treehotel in Sweden - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Treehotel in Sweden. Photo by hotel.

Kalnoky, Transylvania, Romania

Kalnoky, focussed on creating a peaceful atmosphere for its guests, is Prince Charles’ private nature retreat in Transylvania. Surrounded by meadows and forests, this exclusive boutique residence has been traditionally restored and lovingly cared for. One of its smaller properties is now being converted into a training centre for traditional crafts and rural skills to help sustain Romania’s villages.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Zalan House - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Zalan House in Transylvania. Photo by hotel.

Eremito, Italy

Emulating the peace and soulfulness of ancient monasteries, Eremito offers space to meditate and de-programme from the system. Its luxuriously silent rooms are free from modern disruptions like Wi-Fi and televisions and instead focus on healing stressed minds and bodies with natural materials, hemp-yarn bedding and green valley views.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Eremito in Italy - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

Eremito in Italy. Photo by hotel.

Whitepod, Switzerland

In the heart of the Swiss Alps, Whitepod is an eco-luxury boutique hotel, designed to blend environmental conservation and superior hospitality seamlessly. Menus and each of the 15 pods (energy efficient geodesic domes) are adapted seasonally to blend in with the surroundings and maintain a low impact on the environment. Night lighting is minimal, water and energy usage is sensible, private ski lifts are as standard.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel White Pod Snow - BoutiquEco: The world’s finest 15 green retreats

White Pod in Switzerland. Photo by hotel.

…Finally you made it to the end of our our long post. Thanks for reading, M&K

We were happy if you answered our questions:
Have you stayed in a BoutiquEco hotel? What did you love about it?

17 boutique hotels we love – Our collection

June 21, 2019/0 Comments/in boutique hotels, traveltheworld /by Marcus & Kristin

This year, as we researched this list of boutique hotels we love from around the globe, a theme emerged. Nearly all of our hotels exist in harmony with their surroundings. Some of those surroundings are natural – vast African wilds, thick Southeast Asian jungles, towering seaside cliffs. Some surroundings are more human-made, like the posh high streets of London or beachy LA avenues. Regardless of where they are located, these boutique hotels have been purposefully and authentically built, in-sync with that location. The result? You, the traveler, get more than just a night at a hotel. You get an immersive experience.

Casa Cook Rhodes

The Greek Island of Rhodes is home to picture-perfect beaches, ancient ruins and steep hillsides spotted with Greek-white residences – if you’re into that sort of thing. Casa Cook is the perfect introduction to the island, with its boho vibe and laid back but on-style decor. Meet at the pool for a dip, a sip or a full-on multi-course meal, and revel in the sounds of a local DJ. Then, hop on one of the hotel’s bikes for a zip down to the nearest beach.

Amberlair - 17 boutique hotels we love - Our 2017 collection

Casa Cook in Greece. Photo by hotel.

Naxian on the Beach

This private and secluded gem on busy-for-good reason Plaka Beach is a bohemian getaway perfect for couples and groups. Sip cocktails and munch on Greek pastas at sunny oceanside cabanas and then retreat to your modern room outfitted with natural touches in sandy hues. Naxian on the beach is a getaway inside a getaway.

Naxian on the beach in Greece. Photo by hotel.

Sophia Luxury Suites

Sophia Suites climbs a Santorini cliff, painted white with the homes of locals. This sky-high retreat seems to overlook the entire world, and you can too when you dip into one of the cool blue pools or sip a cold glass of white on your private terrace.

Sophia Suites in Santorini. Photo by hotel.

Perivolas

Back in Santorini, we can’t leave out Perivolas, the mid-century hotel that was built into a cliff with 300-year-old cave dwellings and some of the best views on the island. Caves have become luxury accommodations, decked in the signature bright white of Santorini, and shouldn’t be missed.

Perivolas in Santorini. Photo by hotel.

Kirini

Imagine the cloud-white of Santorini, and you’ll begin to understand what it’s like to stay at Kirini. Surrounded by clean, heaven-like interiors with windows open to the eye-popping views of the sun and sea beyond, you may feel like a Greek gods or goddesses. Local food and wine are served at the terrace restaurant overlooking eternal ocean blues.

Kirini in Greece. Photo by hotel.

Maison La Minervetta

A colorful retreat tucked away up an impossibly steep Italian cliffside, Maison La Minervetta is the darling of Sorrento. Quirky nautical decor and floor-to-ceiling windows give you the sensation that you’re in a flying ship, high above the Bay of Naples. Pull yourself away from the window for a break for an al fresco aperitif and a pool with a view.

Maison Minervetta in Italy. Photo by hotel.

Nina Trulli Resort

This Puglian treasure fuses relaxed luxury with rustic history for the perfect southern Italy escape. Experience all the space of a traditional masseria in a vineyard, and take in the authentic stone trulli spotting the property. Get lost in grapevines and olive trees at Nina Trulli or go explore the historical Valle d’Itria, just 5 kilometers from the sea.

Nina Trulli in Italy. Photo by hotel.

Sublime Comporta

Here, modernity and structure are balanced out by a natural warmth. Villas and rooms with tall walls of windows make up the accommodation options at Sublime Comporta. You’ll find yourself somewhere between a natural retreat and a luxury resort when you visit this Portuguese getaway. Perhaps the most sublime of all is the hotel’s organic spa where you can customize your body work.

Sublime Comporta in Portugal. Photo by hotel.

The Blakes

We love London. And we love the quiet style of South Kensington, home of the stylish Blakes Hotel. Each of its rooms has its own British version of je ne sais quois, from country-home chic to palatial opulence to Eastern-influenced minimalism.

The Blakes in England. Photo by hotel.

Aire de Bardenas

Located in the Bardenas Reales, Aire de Bardenas is a natural retreat that incorporates the semi-desert surroundings modern luxury. Bring the outside inside with open-air bathtubs in this boutique hotel’s double rooms, cubes and suites or reserve a bubble room set underneath a vast sky of stars. The experience is completely tailored to you, with packages available for everyone from food lovers to just lovers.

Aire de Bardenas. Photo by hotel.

Arijiju

The ideal spot from which to explore the Kenyan Highlands, Arijiju is a sanctuary for lovers of the wild. With a full 97,000 of open land and helicopter and quad safaris to explore it all, this boutique hotel was built into the landscape with humility and respect for its eternally wild surroundings. Arijiju has wellness-centric menus and a pool that overlooks a watering hole beloved by local elephants and giraffes.

Arijiju in Kenya. Photo by hotel.

Leobo Private Reserve

Open space distinguishes Leobo Private Reserve. Expansive rooms and an more expansive property (20,000 acres, to be exact) give you the chance to breath in the serenity of the African wild. Leave time for endless daytime adventures – from cave hiking to hippo camping (which is as wild as it sounds). Groups can reserve the award-winning Observatory Bush Villa, which sleeps six adults and three children.

Lebobo in South Africa. Photo by hotel.

Matetsi River Lodge

Just a short drive from Victoria Falls, this riverside lodge effortlessly brings you into the natural surroundings of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wildlife viewings are only the start of the adventures at your fingertips at Matetsi River Lodge. Its contemporary, organically airy decor and bush dining will draw you back in after a day of water- or land-safari.

Matetsi River Lodge in Zimbabwe. Photo by hotel.

Phum Baitang

Possibly the best jumping off point from which to see the World Heritage site Angkor Wat, Phum Baitan is luxury built into the Cambodian jungle. Incorporating natural elements in design and decor, this hotel offers airy accommodations and world-class local cuisine that will paint your stay with local cultural and natural elements.

Phum Baitang in Cambodia. Photo by hotel.

Ahilya by the Sea

Overlooking Dolphin Bay and miles away from Goa’s bustling beach crowds, guests can settle into cozy rooms with at-home warmth and expansive sea views. There are rooms in three villas and one banyan tree house to choose from. Dine outdoors, take a dip in one of two pools, or share a cocktail in the common living room – whatever it takes for you to relax as if you’re in a friend’s home. That’s the Ahilya philosophy.

Ahilya in Goa. Photo by hotel.

Palihouse Santa Monica

Here, a hotel that’s been in continuous operation since 1927. Palihouse brings all the authenticity of its namesake SoCal beachside neighborhood. Fitting comfortably in that imperceptible space between a luxury residence and a boutique hotel, Palihouse feels like a home far away from home.

Palihouse in California. Photo by hotel.

Villa Marie Saint-Barth

Happy tropical getaways are par for the course on Saint-Barth, but Villa Marie takes this to unprecedented levels. With its cheery yellow-highlighted interiors and windows open to endless views of palm trees and sand, this hotel boasts rooms, villas and bungalows for guests to choose from.

Villa Marie in St. Barth. Photo by hotel.

We’re curious what are your favorite boutique hotels around the world?
Let us know in the comments section below!

Where to stay in Italy in case you couldn’t find a boutique hotel

October 15, 2017/0 Comments/in boutique hotels, traveltheworld /by Marcus & Kristin

You love Italy. Yeah, we too! But what happens if you can’t find a proper accommodation in the region you are tempted to spend your holidays? You’ve already seeked persistently on the internet and couldn’t find a boutique hotel that would satisfy your high demands. So where to stay? Here is the solution. You have to downgrade a little bit, but that mustn’t mean less luxury. Luxury, especially while traveling abroad, is always a question of definition. In Italy an Agriturismo or a Masseria (farm house) can be a very good alternative to a Boutique Hotel. Most of them even sell their own home grown food and wine. Here are a few alternatives, well designed and with charm. You can bet there are more!

Patu in Corte

Patu in Corte is an old manor farm in the core of the village Patu in Puglia, close to the central square that was turned into two beautiful designed apartments built in an old olive mill. Daniela, the owner, refurbished the manor together with the architect Luca Zanaroli from Bologna. The apartments are located in front of the historical Piazza dell’Indipendenza.

Cimbolello

Cimbolello (little unripe grapes) is a farm house near Citta della Pieve, a unique experience where you can relax and enjoy in the garden close to the vineyards. Francesco and Louisa, your friendly hosts make their own sheep’s milk cheese and joghurt, wine, olive oil, honey and you can join them for dinner with homemade pasta. They offer two beautiful rustic rooms with a chimney, Uvafragola and Leccio. In the next year they will extend their property by a new eco-friendly stone house with two new rooms. Of course everything handmade!

Abbazia dei Sette Frati

Abbazia dei Sette Frati is an old Abbey from the 11th Century in Umbria with an attached garden where you can pick your own vegetables, spices and herbs to prepare the best pasta in your own apartment. This is for people like us who like to cook on their own. Annalisa’s Abbey is also famous for weddings and events.

Trullo Aromatic Green

Trullo aromatic green is a 300 year old building with traditional trulli cones of the region of Puglia with a wonderful unobstructed view to the countryside. Isa’s trulli follows eco-friendly standards, using solar energy and recycled water. The architecture of the trulli is so designed to keep it cool in the summer season and warm in the winter season.

What is your favorite retreat in Italy? Let us know!

Interview Amberlair: “Our future guests have a say from day one”

February 27, 2017/0 Comments/in boutique hotels /by Marcus & Kristin

You guys have traveled so much in search of the perfect location for your boutique hotel. But before Amberlair was even a twinkle in your eye, you both traveled significantly with your previous professions.

Tell us a little about why and where you traveled in the past!

Marcus and Kristin: In 2011, we decided it was time to make a change in our lives, so we quit our nine-to-five jobs and started traveling together. We traveled around the world, for over 600 days and through 45 countries. During our trip, we fell in love with boutique hotels in so many unique destinations. That was when the idea for Amberlair started to take shape.

You call Amberlair the “Worlds first crowdsourced Boutique Hotel”
Can you tell us what that means to you?

Kristin: What we want is to gather together like-minded luxury travelers to build a global community around this idea of the perfect boutique hotel. And then we’re going to build that hotel with their input from the very beginning. With online tools like crowdsourcing and crowdfunding, this travel community has a say throughout the entire process of building the perfect boutique hotel—not just financially, but creatively as well.

Marcus: We discovered that there are plenty of other well-traveled people out there who share our passion for small, authentic hotels in inspiring locations. And Amberlair’s crowdsourcing process is tapping into that global enthusiasm. Our crowdsourcing actually goes all the way back to the beginning. We requested input on the name — asked people to suggest two words that they thought would sum up our ambitions. We landed on Amberlair because it fit so perfectly. In pieces, amber is this fossilized resin that’s always distinctly unique, and “lair” brings to mind a cozy refuge. These are both qualities that resonated with us as we imagined the first crowdsourced boutique hotel.

How many locations have you visited while scouting locations for Amberlair to be built?

Kristin: Well, actually we visited lots of countries in Asia and Europe in hopes of finding a suitable location for a boutique hotel. Finally, we thought it was better to ask our continuously growing boutique hotel lover community where the first Amberlair should be located. And the winner is Italy.

You must have seen some pretty incredible places? Any standouts that we should be sure to add to our list?

Marcus: We saw so many great sights during our travels, but we particularly fell in love with the solitude and loneliness at the Haast River beach in New Zealand, the untouched nature of the Andaman Islands in India, the beaming smiles and the kindness of the people of Myanmar, and the outstanding food and the fancy interior design of the Grillmarket restaurant in Reykjavik. Those are just a few of our favorites, but as we look back, they stand out as the most incredible.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel- Interview with the Amberlair founders: Kristin and Marcus - Future hotel guests have a say from day 1

Haast River mouth in New Zealand

You finally decided on Italy – which we’re super stoked about – how did you come to that decision?

Kristin: We received lots of suggestions from our #BohoLover community around the world. It was really exciting to see all the ideas coming in. The top three countries that received the highest number of suggestions were South Africa, Spain and Italy. So, finally, we put these three countries to a vote.

Marcus: Our #BohoLover community finally voted for Italy. We’re super excited because we love Italy, and we think it has potential for a truly unique boutique hotel. In Puglia in South Italy we found an incredible location. Soon, we’ll be revealing the launch date of our crowdfunding campaign and ask the crowd for support.

With your #BohoLover feature on your blog, you ask other travelers about some of their favorite and least favorite travel experiences and destinations.
How have those answers shaped your vision for what Amberlair will be?

Marcus: The great ideas and suggestions we have already received from travelers and boutique hotel lovers around the world. These will constitute a strong foundation of what our future customer wants and doesn’t want in a hotel or travel experience. And we won’t stop collecting great ideas that will shape our concept as long as Amberlair exists. Crowdsourcing will always be one of the key drivers of Amberlair. This is part of our foundation.

In keeping with the #BohoLover theme, what are some of your personal favorite and least favorite travel destinations and why?

Kristin: We love stylish destinations with boutique hotels that merge with the local culture and design. We’ve found that this concept works best in places with a powerful history. We love Marrakech, and we would go back again and again. The culture, the architecture and the local interior design of the Riads there are so beautiful. Italy is another beautiful place we adore, of course. The food is amazing in Italy, the people are friendly, the natural landscapes are stunning. And we particularly love the historical buildings and the ancient cities.

India is another favorite. The colors, the palaces, the atmosphere, the natural environment. This incredible country is so full of energy and we love going there. Finally, on the other end of the spectrum is Iceland. It’s one of our favorite places because of its dramatic and almost melancholy landscape. In Iceland, we experienced a sense of vast solitude that we’d never experienced before.

We don’t like destinations with too many tourists: we tend to avoid places like Mallorca, Miami, and most of the beaches in Thailand. We’re also not fans of any kind of destructive tourism. We will skip destinations that are a part of the checklist tour of mass tourism groups. By opting out of Unesco World Heritage sites, for example, we’ve been able to have some less mainstream (but no less incredible) experiences.

What can we expect to see in Amberlair’s future?

Marcus: Amberlair’s vision is to set up boutique hotels in different countries around the world. We will always invite and encourage our community to get involved with Amberlair. They can bring their heart into this project with us, to get the best ever imaginable guest experience.

The art of sleep: 4 facts about hotel beds that let you sleep well

October 23, 2016/3 Comments/in boutique hotels /by Marcus & Kristin

It may sound cliche, but when it comes to an exceptional hotel experience, having a good night’s sleep is vitally important. After all, comfy hotel beds are the very essence of a hotel’s business.

At boutique hotels, the product is slightly different. Guests who stay in this personalised accommodations don’t just want a good night’s sleep, they want a great bedtime experience.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - The art of sleep – The importance of beautiful beds in boutique hotels

Areias do Seixo in Portugal. Photo by hotel.

What do guests love about hotel beds?

Our #boholovers know a thing or two about sleep. Between them, they’ve snoozed through thousands of hours of hotel nights. They are the authority on boutique bedtime and it’s going to take more than a king size bed to lull them into the land of nod. There is a lot of discussion surrounding all-things-bed in our on-going traveller interviews and in a recent #LuxTravelChat, the bed was noted as one of the most unforgettable aspects of staying at hotels, second only to service. Bed linen is also critical, with premium bedding being ranked as one of the top ten most important in-room amenities. Mattress type also makes it onto that list with a decent mattress being the difference between a great night’s sleep and not sleeping at all!

“Hotels are selling sleep. Amberlair is in business of creating dreams.”

We’ve ‘un-made’ the boutique hotel bed and separated each aspect of it to determine the ultimate comfort.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel: The art of sleep: 4 facts about hotel beds that let you sleep well

Colony Palms in Palm Springs, USA. Photo by hotel.

Mattress

We’re talking size and level of quality here. A vast king size bed enables guests to stretch out, watch a film in bed, sit up and read and crucially, sleep comfortably together. High on space and high on quality is key and many chains believe they’ve got the formula to the perfect mattress and are now creating their own (which you can actually purchase).

High concentration of springs in certain areas for support and to minimise movement
Impressive depth for majestic luxury
Customizable pillow-top with soft to firm options for tailored support
Cooling foam core for temperature regulation

The Blakes in London. Photo by hotel.

Pillows

Ahh the heavenly feeling of resting your head in a plush pillow is hard to beat. It’s all about the filling when it comes to pillows but everyone’s different and whilst some travellers like nothing better than a deep-filled feather pillow, others prefer a foamy version. That’s why having a choice of pillows is a great way to promote a restful slumber.

Big fluffy pillows look inviting and also feel fabulous
They should be new or noticeably freshly cleaned for peace of mind
Choice of natural fillings like feather, down and hypo-allergenic synthetic fillings like memory foam
Thinner, softer pillows for those who sleep on their backs
Side sleepers will enjoy thicker pillows to maintain safe spinal alignment
Those who sleep on their stomachs will appreciate an extra flat pillow under their hips

White Pod in Switzerland. Photo by hotel.

Duvets and blankets

Perhaps the title should be duvets or blankets. One thing’s for sure, this is the extra cosy element of beds and it’s important to get it right. Cultural and climate differences can make or break a guest’s experience so although sheets and blankets are the way to go in some parts of the world, in others, it’s all about the duvet.

Duvets should be over-stuffed for maximum hibernation opportunities
Blankets should have a designer edge – think cashmere or lambswool
Feather and down fillings can cocoon and help regulate body temperature
Synthetic fillings are sometimes seen as less uxurious but they can help guests who suffer with allergies
Ensure duvets are cleverly stitched to ensure the filling stays evenly distributed for downy softness

Sheets

A key aspect in creating a dream-like space is top quality bed linen. Our #boholovers like their sheets to feel luxurious and a high thread-count of extra long fibres is a great starting point for this. Colour is also important, with white being the obvious choice for its associations with cleanliness and purity – sleep in white bedding for a divine bedtime experience.

Choose natural cotton sheets for maximum freshness
High thread-count is important and whilst 200 with the right finish may be ok, 400 gives a premium feel
Egyptian, pima, and Supima® cottons have extra long “long-staple” fibres for high quality softness
Typical percale weave is tight and perfect for durability but sateen has a more enticing feel

Soho Farmhouse in England. Photo by hotel.

Little extras for a truly boutique bedtime experience

Taking you to another level of sleep, the extra touches that really set boutique hotels apart are what every #boholover looks forward to. These finer details should be personal to the vision of the boutique hotel and tailored where possible. From sleep-inducing music and soothing scents that fill the room, to sleep masks and aromatherapy sprays to make your bed into a kingdom of dreams, there is an endless array of bedtime treats to becalm and delight your guests.

Before you drift off, tell us in the comments why an entirely beautiful bed is important to you – let us know about the basics and the little touches that elevate your sleep experience.

10 breathtaking boutique hotels – The Amberlair selection 2016

April 24, 2016/2 Comments/in boutique hotels, traveltheworld /by Marcus & Kristin

We know we are preaching to the converted – but travelling the world and finding beautiful places to stay in is not just a feast to the eyes – it also works wonders on our soul.

When you pick a destination, you need to find a place that makes you feel you have arrived. When you open your eyes each morning, you just have that feeling – that you are in place X, and not in potentially 25 other similar locations. That’s why we love boutique hotels. They capture what’s new and beautiful about a destination and become authentic representations of all the places we love to travel. Boutique hotels, in their aim to enhance the experience of a place for travelers, are the perfect vantage points from which to see the world. They make traveling better.

And without further ado, here are some of the gorgeous gems we have discovered and handpicked for you – beautiful boutique hotels with soul, excellent design and everything else we will make sure Amberlair has. Explore the Amberlair 2016 Boho Selection:

The Oyster Bay

Contemporary African style greets you as you arrive in beautiful Dar es Salaam and prepare for your travels through beautiful Tanzania. With ocean-view suites and relentless attention to hospitality, you’ll understand what it feels like to be truly welcome at the The Oyster Bay.

The Oyster Bay in Tanzania. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - 10 breathtaking boutique hotels everyone should have on the bucket list

The Oyster Bay in Tanzania. Photo by hotel.

Ett Hem

Cozy and chic, with the simple elegance you’d expect from a Scandinavian hideaway, Ett Hem in Stockholm has its roots in everything local—food, style, history and personality. This boutique hotel takes care of its guests to they truly feel at home.

Ett Hem in Stockholm. Photo by hotel.

Soho House

Here, in the heart of Istanbul, where East meets West, timeless elegance meets modern simplicity. Overlooking the vibrant city beneath a string of lights, you’ll feel the pulse of the urban landscape around you while you remain in a bubble of tranquil delight. Soho House in Istanbul, Turkey.

Soho House in Istanbul. Photo by hotel.

Raas

In an ancient walled city that exudes lavish opulence and a strong sense of history, Raas in Jodhpur matches the ancient, earth-toned style of its surroundings, even down to the centralized body of water. The hotel’s modern architectural spin on the traditional fortress is breathtaking.

Raas in Jodhpur, India. Photo by hotel.

Colony Palms

Opened in the 1930s by an American mobster and favorite hideaway for countless mid-century celebrities like Frank Sanatra and Zsa Zsa Gbor, Colony Palms combines old Hollywood charm with contemporary desert-adapted style.

Colony Palms in Palm Springs, USA. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - 10 breathtaking boutique hotels : The Amberlair selection 2016

Colony Palms in Palm Springs, USA. Photo by hotel.

Jalakara

Jalakara is a tropical hideaway surrounded by nature, far from the humdrum cares of the modern world, that first opened its doors in October 2015. The property was an overgrown banana & betel nut plantation backing onto tropical rainforest in the Andaman Islands in India.

Jalakara in the Andaman Islands, India. Photo by hotel.

Raj Mahal

The Royal Standard of the House of Amber still flutters above Raj Mahal Palace, one of the oldest and most treasured palaces in the pink city of Jaipur, located at the heart of Rajasthan’s bustling capital. An enclosed oasis, secluded in verdant gardens, Raj Mahal is the repository of a celebrated history. If you love the movie “The Darjeeling Limited” by Wes Anderson you will love this hotel.

Raj Mahal Palace in Jaipur, India. Photo by hotel.

Santa Teresa

The atmosphere of this colonial fazenda combines traditional authenticity with tropical chic. Whether by the pool or in the tropical gardens, the Santa Teresa boasts spectacular panoramic views of the Bay of Rio and the Centro.

Santa Teresa in Rio, Brazil. Photo by hotel.

The Redbury

The Redbury is an all-suite boutique hotel featuring 57 suites that exude a warm, bohemian counter-culture feel with design elements drawn from a variety of old-world cultures. Each spacious guest suite offers a home-like atmosphere including a European-style kitchen with gas burners.

The Redbury in Hollywood. Photo by hotel.

Das Stue

Das Stue is Berlin’s first luxury boutique hotel, nestled in the lush Tiergarten park in the diplomatic district. Originally built in the 1930’s, Das Stue was renovated to invoke a calming ambience, with open spaces and contemporary minimalist design.

Das Stue in Berlin. Photo by hotel.

We’re curious: what are your favorite boutique hotels around the world? Let us know in the comments section below!

5 secret treats: What makes minibars so great in boutique hotels

April 18, 2016/0 Comments/in boutique hotels /by Marcus & Kristin

We adore minibars. Although the concept can seem a little dated with all those miniature bottles rattling round and carrying extortionate price tags, we know that having your own personal bottle of chilled sparkling water on arrival or moreish cookies to nibble with your fair trade morning coffee is something even #boholovers don’t grow tired of.

Whilst hotel owners work hard at getting the lighting just right and tirelessly ensure mood-enhancing scents float through the reception to the guest rooms, choosing items to fill up the minibar can often get forgotten about; it’s hidden away behind doors, under tables, inside rooms. But perhaps that’s part of its charm.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - 5 secret treats: What makes minibars so great in boutique hotels

Minibar at Houzz magazine. Photo by Aaron Leitz

Why minibars?

Pioneered by Hilton in the 1970s, minibars were seen as a luxurious addition to hotel rooms. Packed with (expensive) little treats for weary travellers, their contents could momentarily ease your mind and quench your thirst and hotels would cash in on this. It’s easy money when you have a 370% mark-up on a bottle of beer.

More recently, traditional minibars have fallen out of favour with hotels and guests. They’re seen as a time consuming hassle for hotel owners who constantly have to re-stock and monitor them and with the rise of the budget traveller, they’re often avoided because of the obvious overpricing.

Everything tastes better when it’s free

Turning the concept on its head, many boutique hotels are now choosing to give their guests something for nothing. It’s actually an inexpensive way of saying ‘thank you for choosing us’ and almost certainly lead to repeat business as our #boholovers can confirm; complimentary treats always help to make a great first impression last.

“I can’t explain why free Cracker Jacks thrilled me, but they did.” Kim-Marie, Luxury Travel Mom

Homemade grapefruit thyme gin

Making minibars boutique

Checking into a boutique hotel should always a special experience. Whether that’s because it feels intriguingly unusual or comfortingly familiar, the experience should arouse our senses in every way possible. Choosing the right products is key so here’s how to avoid falling into the trap filled with stale peanuts and flat prosecco:

Go homemade

Is there anything tastier than freshly baked goodies? We think not! Leaving a couple of fresh cookies in the room rather than a packet of dull biscuits tells guests that the hotel has time for them – that they want to indulge them with thoughtful treats, not cheap snacks.

Home made pralines from Lecce in Italy.

Go local

It’s worth noting that the contents of a minibar directly reflect the hotel so offering locally sourced produce is the perfect way to help guests settle in, further understand the hotel’s vision and provide a taste of what to expect during their stay. A boutique countryside retreat might want to offer cheese from the local farm and crackers from a nearby bakery. What about home-grown fruits, locally brewed beer, typical pre-dinner nibbles…

Fresh food selection. Photo by Sassy Hong Kong

Go gourmet

The luxury of slipping into bed with a fabulous red wine or outrageously creamy hot chocolate is something we associate with our favourite boutique hotels and guests will always be excited by gourmet treats in a minibar. Rather than a regular bar of chocolate, why not organic, artisan or exclusive? Choose limited edition flavours or flavour combinations that are ever so slightly opulent for a truly indulgent experience.

French gourmet platter by Ginny Branch from Shopterrain

Go personal

It doesn’t have to cost the earth but if it does, make sure it’s personal to your guests and they won’t mind paying for it. Sending out a short questionnaire to guests to understand their preferences prior to their arrival is a great touch and some hotels now boast incredible “minibar” concepts, not necessarily based around food and drink. From sleep sprays to seduction kits to beauty fridges, upscale hotels are putting tantalising treats at their guests’ disposal for a completely unique experience.

Home made soap at Los Poblanos Farm Shop

Go outside the box

Literally. Amazing minibars may not actually be tiny fridges – they could be beautiful wicker hampers or a secret stash of goodies waiting beside the bed. If the products are focussed on well-being, perhaps shelves of treats hidden behind a gleaming glass door in the bathroom would be an enticing way to welcome guests.

We’re about to dive into a bag of posh potato chips but we would love to hear your thoughts on minibars in boutique hotels – have you enjoyed any treats that added extra sparkle to your trip?

How boutique hotels create that romantic atmosphere with light

March 29, 2016/0 Comments/in boutique hotels /by Marcus & Kristin

Have you ever wondered why that bed looks so inviting or why you feel so good when you’re getting ready in a boutique hotel room? It has a lot to do with fabulous styling and everything to do with great lighting. Yes, behind (or next to) every plush pillow is a brilliantly lit lamp.

Lighting ties all of the luxurious and artisan elements of a boutique hotel together, creating a feeling that’s unique to that space. Here are some of the many ways that this special atmosphere can be achieved.

How boutique hotels create that special lighting atmosphere

Masseria Cimino in Italy. Photo by hotel.

The welcoming glow

Great lighting is often functional as well as atmospheric. Externally or in their lobbies, boutique hotels may use semi-hidden strips of white or coloured light that cast a glow across ceilings or down walls. This feel-good lighting effect surrounds guests as they enter the property, immediately setting the tone for their particular boutique experience and inviting them in.

Lion Sands in South Africa. Photo by hotel.

The illuminated staircase

Whether it’s the wall next to the stairs, the handrail or the stairs themselves that are lit-up, some boutique hotels use illuminated staircases to entice guests up (or down) into their sleeping quarters and effectively separate day and night-time spaces.

Zoned spaces

Your boutique hotel bedroom is more than just a sleeping space. It’s where you rest, wash, dress and enjoy your morning coffee or evening apéritif. Rather than just cutting the space off with screens or furniture, boutique hotels often zone rooms with different light fixtures and layers of light to create private, social and practical areas. It could be a well-angled reading light, ambient lighting that guests control with a dimmer switch, a back-lit shaving mirror or a seating area flooded with calming natural light; the mixture of soft glow with bright light all adds to the effectiveness of the space as a whole.

And Beyond – Lake Manyara Tree Lodge. Photo by hotel.

Utilising natural light

Whilst natural light is beautiful, it may come from a window with an undesirable view. Some boutique hotels soften it with layers of sheer fabrics or laser-cut screens, channeling and controlling the amount of light that enters the room to create an entirely unique effect.

Riad in Marrakech

Brilliantly bold

A boutique hotel without a statement light is like night without day. If the bed is the focal point of the room, an oversized pendant light may be hung above it or unusual table lamps might be placed either side of it. The idea is to draw the eye to that area and contribute towards the feeling of drama, high-style or art that the hotel is trying to achieve. Other bold lighting choices may be illuminated showers, low-hung lights over tables in dining areas or clusters of wall-lights in hallways.

San Giorgio in Mykonos. Photo by hotel.

Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood, Thailand

Misool Eco Resort, Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Bambu Indah, Bali

Lion Sands Game Reserve, South Africa

Mnemba Island, Tanzania

Adrere Amellal, Siwa, Egypt

Laguna Lodge, Guatemala

Blancaneaux Lodge, Belize

Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa, Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Hotel Endemico, Ensenada, Mexico

Uxua, Bahia, Brazil

Treehotel, Sweden

Kalnoky, Transylvania, Romania

Eremito, Italy

Whitepod, Switzerland

Casa Cook Rhodes

Naxian on the Beach

Sophia Luxury Suites

Perivolas

Kirini

Maison La Minervetta

Nina Trulli Resort

Sublime Comporta

The Blakes

Aire de Bardenas

Arijiju

Leobo Private Reserve

Matetsi River Lodge

Phum Baitang

Ahilya by the Sea

Palihouse Santa Monica

Villa Marie Saint-Barth

Patu in Corte

Cimbolello

Abbazia dei Sette Frati

Trullo Aromatic Green

Tell us a little about why and where you traveled in the past!

You call Amberlair the “Worlds first crowdsourced Boutique Hotel” Can you tell us what that means to you?

How many locations have you visited while scouting locations for Amberlair to be built?

You must have seen some pretty incredible places? Any standouts that we should be sure to add to our list?

You finally decided on Italy – which we’re super stoked about – how did you come to that decision?

With your #BohoLover feature on your blog, you ask other travelers about some of their favorite and least favorite travel experiences and destinations. How have those answers shaped your vision for what Amberlair will be?

In keeping with the #BohoLover theme, what are some of your personal favorite and least favorite travel destinations and why?

What can we expect to see in Amberlair’s future?

What do guests love about hotel beds?

“Hotels are selling sleep. Amberlair is in business of creating dreams.”

Mattress

Pillows

Duvets and blankets

Sheets

Little extras for a truly boutique bedtime experience

The Oyster Bay

Ett Hem

Soho House

Raas

Colony Palms

Jalakara

Raj Mahal

Santa Teresa

The Redbury

Das Stue

Why minibars?

Everything tastes better when it’s free

Making minibars boutique

Go homemade

Go local

Go gourmet

Go personal

Go outside the box

The welcoming glow

The illuminated staircase

Zoned spaces

Utilising natural light

Brilliantly bold

Amberlair on Social Media

Say Hi and leave a message !

You call Amberlair the “Worlds first crowdsourced Boutique Hotel”
Can you tell us what that means to you?

With your #BohoLover feature on your blog, you ask other travelers about some of their favorite and least favorite travel experiences and destinations.
How have those answers shaped your vision for what Amberlair will be?