Many modern hotels, especially chain hotels, have a reputation for being bland, sterile and impersonal. However, there are many hotels throughout Europe and the rest of the world that offer a welcome change to what you might expect from a typical hotel.
 

Museumotel

The Museumotel in Raon-l'Etape, France was originally designed by the visionary architect, Pascal Haüserman in the 1960s as the summer annex of a larger hotel. However, in 2006 the Museumotel was converted into a hotel in its own right. The Museumotel consists of nine futuristic egg-shaped bungalows, or bubbles, each with its own themed interior. Six smaller bubbles provide accommodation for up to two people, whilst three larger bubbles, with two separate rooms, provide accommodation for up to five people.

Hotel Silken Puerta America

In Madrid, Spain, the Hotel Silken Puerta America is another unique hotel project, which brings together the work of no fewer than 19 architectural design studios from 13 different countries. No two floors and no two rooms in this exclusive hotel are the same. The interior designers were given carte blanche to experiment with materials, colours and shapes, to create striking visual effects wherever you look.

Blow Up Hall

The Blow Up Hall in Poznan, Poland, is a former brewery and doesn’t look like anything special from the outside. However, the interior of the hotel was inspired by the 1966 cult film, "Blow Up", directed by Michelangelo Antonioni. The beautifully designed rooms feature striking décor, reminiscent of "Swinging London" in the 1960s. The hotel has no reception and no room numbers; guests are supplied with an iPhone when they check in to gain access to their rooms.

Dog Bark Park Inn

Further afield, the Dog Bark Park Inn, just off Highway 95 in Cottonwood, Idaho in the United States, is probably the most idiosyncratic hotel that you will ever come across. The Dog Bark Park Inn is, in fact, shaped like a giant beagle. Guests go into the beagle's body from a deck on the second storey and continue up into the head and muzzle of the dog to find their sleeping quarters. Some of the interior furnishings are carved by chainsaw, by the husband and wife team that run the hotel.

Thorngrove Manor

Thorngrove Manor, in Adelaide Hills, Australia, is a beautiful property that looks like it belongs in a medieval fairytale. Different architectural influences are apparent in every inch of the hotel, externally and internally. The impressive façade consists of distinctive Baroque towers, turrets, bays and half-timbered construction which provides a clue to the equally flamboyant interior.
Inside the hotel there are antiques, artwork and bespoke furnishings which create a timeless feel for the guests. The hotel is undoubtedly artistic but is constructed from quality materials, such as copper, Angaston rock marble and glass, using modern construction technologies.

Traditionally thought of as the preserve of gap-year students filling time before going on to University, more people nowadays are planning a round-the-world trip. Whatever your reason, a round-the-world trip is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that more people are seizing.

When to travel

Bear in mind when planning, that you will encounter most seasons and types of weather as you traverse the globe, so do your homework. Decide on the things you really want to do and plan the rest of your holiday around these. For example, if you want to visit India as the highlight of your trip, you would be wise to avoid the monsoon season, when heavy rains and winds will almost certainly disrupt not only your travel plans, but also your memories.

Buying your ticket

In order to buy a round-the-world ticket, you must make sure you travel in the same direction throughout your trip, so you can travel west-to-west or east-to-east, but you should not mix up the directions. You must begin and end your journey in the same country and you must book all your flights at the point of purchase. It's possible to change flight details later, but bear in mind that you may have to pay extra to do so. Book through an alliance of airlines that allows you a greater choice of flights and for the best deals.

Where to go

If you've done your research, you'll already have some idea of the places you really want to visit and the things that you really want to do. Most global trips link together major cities across the continents, so pick and choose according to your budget. For instance, India and other Asian countries can work well for those with a more limited budget, whereas places such as Singapore and Japan allow you to really push the boat out when it comes to spending.

How long to go for

Theoretically, you could circumnavigate the globe in a couple of weeks, but you'll spend a lot of money, get very jet-lagged and see very little of the world if you try to cram it all into such a short space of time. Most round-the-world tickets are valid for a year, so try to arrange a sabbatical and stockpile some cash, to allow as long as possible. Remember, this is a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, so it's important to make the very most of it!

Things to watch out for:

Book through an agent with experience of round-the-world tickets, as they will be best placed to advise you on suitable itineraries and cheapest prices.

You may find that it's cheaper to book internal flights once you are in a country rather than booking them at the same time as your main flights.

Be aware that if you miss one of your scheduled flights, the airline could feasibly cancel all your remaining flights, so be strict about notifying the airlines of any changes in your plans, well in advance.

Touring the globe in the footsteps of rugby giants or golf professionals can be the ultimate holiday for sports fans. Combining the worlds of sport and travel can make for an action-packed break, which can be enjoyed in just about any exotic destination.

Rugby

The big events on the rugby calendar are found in Britain and the Far East. Just following the Six Nations tournament through the months of February and March will take fans from the Welsh drizzle at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff to the Italian sunshine at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. The Hong Kong Rugby Sevens is a popular option for fans of the smaller game and those who want to experience a more unusual sporting holiday amid the buzz of this exciting oriental destination. Australia's not just the place to go for cricket either; the British and Irish Lions Rugby Tour in the summer months brings together the top players from the British Isles to compete against local Australian teams.

Motor Sport

The high-octane world of motor sport combines historic venues with exotic destinations. The key event in Formula 1 racing is the Grand Prix in Monaco, France's small but cultured neighbouring principality. There is also the domestic UK championship at Silverstone, not to mention the tracks in Malaysia, China and Spain. The Moto GP tournaments don't disappoint when it comes to venues either; Assen in Holland is a popular option for the huge street parties that accompany the event. Alternatively, fans can travel to the USA for the Indianapolis circuit with its thirteen-turn course and bike displays, which take over the city centre all weekend.

Cricket

Cricket fans will of course be looking forward to the next Ashes series in Australia. Always greatly anticipated and charged with emotion on both sides, the Ashes series takes place in a country that offers not only the typical holiday fare of sun and surf, but ultra-modern urban landscapes and vast bush-lands. Elsewhere on the cricket schedule, next year fans can follow the England team to the humid climate of India and the spectacular scenery of New Zealand.

Golf

For the calmer pleasures of the golf tournament, there are no less diverse and magnificent locations to enjoy. The upcoming Ryder Cup will see visitors from across the globe arrive in Illinois to witness Europe vs. America in the five-day event. The Masters tournament is also held in the USA, but countries as different as Sweden and Dubai also play host to golfing competitions. Golfing holidays also make for more relaxed breaks, as spectators can explore the surrounding area in the evenings, ahead of the next day's play.

Those who take their sport seriously travel thousands of miles every year to see their favourite team on foreign soil, or absorb the transforming pre-match atmosphere of a familiar haunt. A sporting holiday allows visitors to explore new places and pursue their hobby at the same time, so it is not surprising that sporting tours remains a popular holiday choice for many.

Ask five couples to name their top romantic holiday destination and you will probably get five very different answers. They may include Hawaii, The Lake District, The Maldives, Italy, or anywhere without the kids!

Paris

Topping the list, is the love capital, Paris, which deserves its reputation as one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. Is there a love-struck couple that haven't visited or dreamt of visiting the city famed for its seductive ambiance, sultry atmosphere and exquisite cuisine?
Paris oozes romance from its moonlit cruises on the River Seine or a stroll along its embankments in the shadow of Notre Dame, to the views from the Sacré Coeur and the Eiffel Tower, Paris is a couple’s paradise. If you weren't in love when you arrived, you will be when you leave.

Island hopping in Greece

The Greek Islands offer an idyllic romantic getaway, 'hopping' from one to another to discover the many different Grecian charms, from the azure waters of Paxos to the mountains of Crete. With beautiful year round weather, history and culture in abundance, stunning beaches and magnificent scenery, visitors are spoilt for choice in the Greek Islands, with something to suit all types of couples.

The Lake District

The Lake District is one of the most stunning tourist destinations in the world with breathtaking scenery encompassing sparkling lakes, mountains and rolling hills that offer multiple opportunities for romantic walks. The quaint country pubs are ideal for quiet meals together, secluded from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There is cosy accommodation in abundance, nestled into the lush landscape and if the weather is inclement, what better excuse to stay indoors with your loved one and just enjoy each other.

Romance in Spain

The Spanish city of Seville may not spring to mind as a lover's retreat, but the Andalucian capital is a treasure with evidence everywhere of its Moorish past. Couples will enjoy exploring the winding medieval streets, the orange blossom scented plazas and the stunning architecture. There is no better city in Spain for sampling the shared delights of the many tapas bars, restaurants and buzzing nightlife. Staying in an authentic hacienda, hotel or guest house, Seville is a magical place and not far from the golden beaches of the Costa de la Cruz, which is famed for its various naturist beaches that the more confident couple might enjoy.

St. Barths

This top five would be incomplete without the Caribbean Islands and in particular, St. Barths. This island has become a destination for loved-up couples seeking a romantic getaway in a tropical paradise with picture perfect surroundings. Couples will enjoy the exclusivity of the island where the welcome of the islanders is warm and genuine and where soft sandy beaches stretch for miles. A couple's Eden, St. Barths will enchant, captivate and share its romance with all who journey there.

 

Are you thinking about booking a last minute summer holiday? How would you like to win £300 of hotel vouchers from Lodging World?

All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize is tell us either your best or your worst holiday experience EVER in 150 – 400 words!

Simply comment in the box below with your holiday tale and once you have entered, make sure you mention us on Twitter either using @lodging_world or #holidaytale in your tweet to be in with a chance of winning!

It really is that easy! Be sure to follow @lodging_world and RT and share with your followers too.

We look forward to hearing all of your stories and will pick our favourite as the winner! The top 3 entrants will also be given the chance to write for us regularly about your travel adventures!

Thank you and good luck!

Childhood holiday memories conjure up picnics on the beach with sandwiches full of sand and seagull cries mingled with the sound of fairground organs. Trousers were rolled up and dresses tucked into knickers for crabbing in rock pools with the sand squidging up between your toes. And rainy days were spent pushing pennies into the slot machines at the penny arcades. Then, as the evening drew in, it was time for fish and chips on the seafront and the walk back to the caravan park or to the landlady in charge at the B&B. Nowadays, the sounds, sights and smells remain the same, but the fearsome landlady of old has been replaced by a new breed of B&B owner, keen to show off their hospitality to seaside aficionados.

The Isle of Wight

Photographer, Martin Parr remains enthralled by the Northbank Hotel where some families have been returning for their summer holiday for generations. Packed with old-fashioned charm, he describes a stay at this Isle of Wight hotel as similar to staying with an "eccentric aunt", complete with dinners seemingly from another era and curious objects dotted around the place. He sings the praises of a hotel that has managed to buck the trend of moving with the times and that has resisted becoming part of a homogenised chain.

Blackpool

The designer, Wayne Hemingway recalls growing up close to Blackpool and the thrill of the trams decked out in lights to resemble ships, trains and planes rattling past under the famous illuminations. He believes the sight helped to develop a massive interest in everything kitsch, which he still retains to this day. The famous illuminations are still going strong and attracting visitors to the town with this unique display.

Norfolk

As someone who writes a blog on all things kitsch, Teena Vallerine adores the wonky, misspelled hand-painted signs to be found along the Norfolk coast, advertising candyfloss and ice cream in garish colours. In her childhood, she was persuaded by these signs to eat things that she would "not normally feed to the dog". She believes that these curious signs and brash neon lighting represent everything that is kitsch and affectionate about the British seaside holiday.

Eastbourne

Annual summer holidays in Eastbourne caused author, Travis Elborough to become obsessed with pirates. The Treasure Island family park that played a significant part in his childhood memories is still there to this day, charming children with little more than a paddling pool, a few barrels and planks of wood and a lot of imagination.

Mumbles

Amanda Baillieu is a journalist specialising in architecture and so appropriately enough, she is drawn to the rusty pier at Mumbles. Once home to choirs, concerts and fireworks, the pier is now best enjoyed for its stunning views across the bay. Amanda mourns its potential passing as redevelopment in the area threatens its continued existence.

Llandudno

The editor of Coast Magazine, Claire Gogerty, enjoys a trip in the cable car that carries passengers through the air from Happy Valley Park to the summit of Great Orme a mile away. Suspended perilously in a seemingly flimsy tin structure, she enjoys the views of Conway Estuary across to Anglesey.

Take a tour through British history as you follow royalty, royal palaces and churches across London from east to west.

Eltham Palace

Start at Eltham in southeast London by visiting Eltham Palace. First bought by the future Edward II in 1305, it was a royal residence between the 14th and 16th centuries. Henry VIII grew up there, as did Elizabeth I. It was rebuilt in the 1930s and is one of Britain's finest examples of Art Deco architecture.

Tower of London

Travel east to the Tower of London, first built as a fortress after the 1066 Norman invasion. It has been an armoury, the home of the Royal Mint and is still the home of the Crown Jewels. It has held some famous prisoners, including Anne Boleyn, Sir Walter Raleigh and Guy Fawkes, who began their incarceration by passing through the Traitor's Gate by boat from the River Thames. 

Whitehall 

Take a boat to the Thames Embankment, disembark and walk along Northumberland Avenue, Whitehall and towards Westminster. This area was once occupied by Whitehall Palace, the largest complex of royal buildings ever built in England, however today, only the Banqueting House remains.

Westminster Abbey

Walk along past Parliament Square towards Westminster Abbey, where many historical British Monarchs have been crowned. Continue towards the Horse Guards Parade and you will arrive at Trafalgar Square and The Mall, London's famous royal carriageway to Buckingham Palace. All notable royal processions, marriages, funerals, Jubilees and foreign state visits take place along this road.

St. James's Palace

St. James's Palace, is officially the main residence of the Queen. Foreign ambassadors are accredited to the Court of St. James. Queen Elizabeth I set out from here to address troops at Tilbury in east London when she heard that the Spanish Armada was on its way to England

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace remains as the Monarch's office but is no longer a permanent royal residence. The State Rooms are open during the summer together with special exhibitions, whilst the Queen's Gallery, is open regularly throughout the year. The Royal Mews contains stabling accommodation for the royal horses as well as their carriage is open all year round.

Hampton Court

Return to the Thames Embankment and take a boat to Hampton Court Palace. Originally a country house transformed into a palace by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, it was acquired by Henry VIII after Wolsey's downfall. Enjoy the gardens, the kitchens, the maze and a picnic alongside the River Thames.
 

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is just a short bus ride or drive away in Berkshire. Originally built after the Norman invasion, it is the principal royal residence of Queen Elizabeth II. What started as a medieval palace with its famous Round Tower, today has Georgian and Victorian extensions. End your tour with a short walk to Runneymede, where in 1215 English royalty signed away its absolute power in the Magna Carta.

While you will find plenty of online sites, such as the great Lodging World website, with a fantastic selection of travel destinations, you may still be left undecided. However, for many there is nowhere finer than the Czech Republic's Prague, as it is quickly becoming one of the most popular travel destinations on the planet.

The Old World.

One of the best things about this splendid city is that it remained virtually untouched by the ravages of the Second World War. Thus the city's compact medieval centre, replete with wonderful cobbled streets, glorious cathedrals and courtyards, retains all the glories of the past.

Prague Castle, said to be the largest ancient castle in the world, is a must see. The castle offers some of the best views you will ever see, while the site is also home to the great St. Vitus Cathedral, the Castle Picture Gallery, numerous museums and the splendid Royal Gardens.

The magnificent Charles Bridge is another historic must see. Dating back to the 14th century, the bridge, arguably one of the most beautiful structures in the whole of the city, connects the 'old town' with the so-called 'Lesser Town'. Here you will find a plethora of great street entertainment just about all year round.

The Old Town remains the city's historic centre. Here you can see the famous Astronomical Clock and one of the finest examples of Gothic Architecture, Tyn Church. Further highlights include the Storch building, decorated from head to foot in murals, the Jan Hus monument and the Estate Theatre, the place where Mozart's Don Giovanni had its infamous premier.

The New World.

The New Town was built in the 14th century as an extension of the Old Town. While the area has since been extensively reconstructed, the New Town displays a fascinating mix of the traditional and the modern, with its Art Nouveau architecture and state of the art shopping centre. Wenceslas Square remains the focal point of the New Town and it is here that you will find not only an abundance of fine restaurants and a thoroughly modern shopping district, but also the great National Museum and the splendid, multi-coloured Jubilee Synagogue.

The New Town is also the area where you will find the best in vibrant and cutting edge nightlife. Plenty of buzzing bars, trendy discos and contemporary clubs pack the area from one end to the next.

The Pick of the Attractions.

While there are an unlimited number of great attractions here, one or two stand out from the rest. For the arts, the Czech National Gallery is a must, as is the Museum of Czech Cubism in the House of the Black Madonna, situated in the Old Town. For something a touch more contemporary, the DOX centre for contemporary art has some of the finest cutting-edge works around.

For the kids, Prague Zoo is always a favourite (take bus no.112 from the Nadrazi Holesovice), while the nearby Troja Chateau can be seen in the same day. Here you will find the fascinating Botanic Gardens and a vast array of wonderful sculptures and gardens.

Are you thinking about booking your summer holiday? How would you like to win £300 of hotel vouchers from Lodging World?

All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize is tell us either your best or your worst holiday experience EVER in 150 – 400 words!

Simply comment below on this post with your holiday tale and once you have entered, make sure you post the link on Twitter either mentioning @lodging_world and using #holidaytale or use this message – ‘I just entered the @lodging_world competition to win £300! Read my #holidaytale here:’

It really is that easy! Be sure to follow us @lodging_world and RT and share with your followers too.

We look forward to hearing all of your stories and will pick our favourite as the winner! The top 3 entrants will also be given the chance to write for us regularly about your travel adventures!

Thank you and good luck!

Organising a family holiday abroad can seem a bit more difficult than organising a couple's getaway. After all, you'll have a few more people to cater for and it is likely that some of you will have different interests and ideas about how to spend your time. It needn't be too difficult though as there are a number of holiday destinations in Europe perfectly suited to a family holiday.

Portugal

Portugal is an ideal location for those travelling with a family as there are a number of activities here that will suit everyone from historical sites to theme parks and everything in between. If you're in Lisbon during your stay you will definitely want to spend an afternoon wandering around so that you can take in St. George's Castle and the Alfama quarter. This market district will provide entertainment for you all and you can pick up some excellent, unique gifts for those back home.

St. George's Castle

If possible, you also want to be sure to make time visit Obidos which is a medieval town completely encapsulated by walkable castle walls and is sure to be a hit with the whole family. For those more adventurous in your party visiting an attraction like the Amarante Water Park is a must. Here you can enjoy the beautiful weather while having a blast on the wide range of water-slides and rides.

Amarante Water Park

Costa del Sol, Spain

Another highly recommended family destination is the Costa del Sol. Depending on where you are headed you will find a wide range of family friendly attractions here. There are a number of water parks, such as Aqualand in Torremolinos and the Parque Acuatico in Mijas. Selwo Marina in Benalmadena is a different type of water park which offers live dolphin shows and the opportunity to see a wide variety of sea life.

Selwo Marina

Tivoli World is also a must see and is the biggest theme park on the Costa del Sol and promises something of interest for all ages. For a more educational experience you should take the time to visit one of the many zoos, museums and safari parks or visit the Nerja Caves which are some of the most extensive and beautiful underground caves in Europe.

Nerja Caves

Cyprus

Cyprus offers a wealth of child-friendly attractions including the Protaras Ocean Aquarium, Camel Park in Mazotos, Dinosaur Park Limassol and the Ostrich Park in Lefkosia. Additionally, water parks are dotted all over the island so no matter where you are staying you should always be close to a fun day of water rides. There are also a number of interesting museums and historical sites to visit in Cyprus as well as breath-taking scenery and seasonal attractions to enjoy.

Protaras Ocean Aquarium

It is important to remember family fun at these destinations can also be found in the pools and on the beaches. Many beaches offer water sports and equipment rentals for the family and many resorts offer guided tours and discounted tickets to a variety of locations and events. With such a wide range of activities, planning a family holiday to Europe shouldn't be difficult - the hardest part is choosing exactly where to go.