The Top 5 Luxurious Summer Vacation Spots

Breathe Easy in Bali

For those looking to rejuvenate their mind, body and soul, look no further than the Amandari Resort in Bali.

Nettled on a lush hillside by the edge of the Ayung River gorge, the resort, designed after a traditional Balinese village, is set in the midst of rice fields, wildflowers and exotic greenery.

The getaway consists of some 30 thatched-roof suites, each complete with a private garden, four-poster canopy bed, outdoor sunken marble tub and open rain shower.

Wake up to panoramic views and enjoy in-room breakfast service. For a higher price, sink into your own private plunge pool, or take a stone path to the resort's main infinity pool overlooking a valley of tropical vegetation.

To ease your mind, relax your muscles and for your general well-being, enjoy a consultation with a local bomo or faith healer, take a private yoga class or indulge in a healing body treatment, offered using natural Balinese ingredients such as grated coconut, crushed cloves, ginger, sweet sandalwood and other aromatic oils.

During the afternoon, engross yourself in a local cooking class, go white-water rafting down the adjacent Ayung River or go on a cultural tour. At night, sip an exotic cocktail and enjoy a fragrant, spicy Indonesian meal at Amandari's open-air restaurant.

The resort's village suites start at $700 per night. Amandari suites, featuring one bedroom and a private pool, cost up to $2,100 a night, and Amandari villas, consisting of three bedrooms, a private pool and butler service go for a nightly rate of $3,600.

Find Pleasure in Peru

Immerse yourself in the Colonial Spanish and native Quechua Indian cultures in the historic city of Cuzco, situated over 11,000 feet above sea level.

Stay at the legendary Hotel Monasterio, originally built as a monastery in 1592.

Awake to soothing Gregorian chants echoing in the stone hallways and enjoy the included full buffet breakfast, ranging from South American traditional dishes to the finest Continental cuisine.

	Bali's Ethereal Beauty
	Photo: Amandari Resort

During the day, go river fishing in the glittering Rio Vilcanota or white-water rafting down the Urubamba River. Enjoy mountain biking in the Vilcanota River Valley or hang-gliding off the dramatic Mirador de Chinchero.

Plan a city excursion and visit Cuzco's amazing archeological sites, or take the hotel's Sacred Valley tour and venture to the fortress of Ollantaytambo and Pisac ruins. You can even take a one- or two-day tour to the breathtaking Machu Picchu or camp and hike your way along the Inca Trail on a three- to four-day trek to the historical site, also known as the Lost City of the Incas.

Afterward, return to Hotel Monasterio and indulge in luxurious bath butler service or have an Andean Massage to soothe those sore muscles.

Surrounded by lush, charming courtyards and decorated in exquisite colonial art, the hotel's oxygenated rooms and gracious service always provide a tranquil oasis after a day of sightseeing.

Hotel rates start at $470 per night for a deluxe room and go up to $1,240 for one of the two royal suites.

Bon voyage!

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