Little Travel Queen, Author at Little Travel Queen

6 Exquisite Hotels Owned by World-Famous Celebrities

by Little Travel Queen | Sep 17, 2025 | Crowned

We all know celebrities love a good hotel stay—but some take it further, turning their taste into places you can actually check into. Little Travel Queen has been keeping an eye on the ones that stand out, and trust me, these are the kind of stays you’ll want to save for when you feel like treating yourself.

1. Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Queensland

Co-owned by Hugh Jackman, Gwinganna is an exclusive eco-certified retreat perched high on a plateau in the hidden Tallebudgera Valley. Spanning more than 200 hectares of pristine bushland, it offers a sanctuary of stillness and restoration. Guests can choose from two- to seven-day programs that blend organic living, movement, and mindfulness—guided by caring experts in an environment intentionally free from digital distractions. With sunrise hikes, spa rituals, and nourishing cuisine, Gwinganna invites you to slow down and realign with what truly matters.

What sets it apart is its unwavering commitment to wellness boundaries. Cigarettes, alcohol, caffeine, and processed foods are respectfully excluded from the property, creating a cocoon for deep healing and lifestyle transformation. Globally recognized for its impact, Gwinganna is a multiple-awards-winning retreat celebrated for its eco-conscious philosophy and transformative programs. As stated on their official website: “Whether you choose to reflect, meditate or simply be, this is your time to reset and reawaken your senses.”

2. Greenwich Hotel, New York

Owned by actor Robert De Niro and nestled in the heart of Tribeca, The Greenwich Hotel is a boutique property that feels more like a private residence than a traditional stay. With 88 individually designed rooms and suites, no two are alike—each space is crafted with hand-selected materials from around the world, from Tibetan silk rugs to Moroccan tiles. The aesthetic is warm, worldly, and quietly luxurious, reflecting De Niro’s personal taste and commitment to authenticity.

What makes The Greenwich truly special is its devotion to intimacy and calm. Guests have exclusive access to the Drawing Room and Courtyard—serene spaces reserved for quiet moments and conversation. The Shibui Spa, built from a 250-year-old Japanese farmhouse, offers holistic treatments beneath exposed wooden beams and a lantern-lit pool. And when it’s time to dine, Locanda Verde delivers rustic Italian fare in a setting that’s both lively and comforting.

3. Zel Hotel, Mallorca

If you’re looking for a place where Mediterranean luxury meets sea breeze and slow mornings, Zel Mallorca—co-created by Rafael Nadal—is the one to bookmark. The vibe is relaxed but refined, with interiors that blend Italian, Greek and Mallorcan influences, and a lifestyle concept that mirrors Nadal’s own rhythm: active, outdoorsy, and effortlessly stylish. The hotel sits right on the beach in Palmanova, with views that invite you to stay out just a little longer.

And they know the Mediterranean isn’t the same without your four-legged travel buddy. Zel Mallorca is proudly pet-friendly, with a dedicated dog program (up to two per room) that includes in-room treats and thoughtful extras. Whether you’re here for yoga, paddleboarding, or just a slow breakfast in the sun, this is the kind of place that feels like summer—even when it’s not.

4. Nobu Hotels, Global Locations

Born from a serendipitous partnership between Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, actor Robert De Niro, and producer Meir Teper, Nobu Hotels represents the natural evolution of the iconic Nobu restaurant empire. From a single New York dining spot to a global lifestyle brand, it now includes 23 hotels in operation and 14 more set to open by 2027. From London and Tokyo to Barcelona and Dubai, each hotel blends contemporary design with Japanese minimalism and local character, offering a curated experience that feels both refined and deeply rooted in place.

The Nobu philosophy is simple: elegance without excess, and hospitality that feels personal. From the signature black cod miso to sleek interiors and intuitive service, every detail reflects the founders’ commitment to quality and cultural fusion. Guided by the Japanese principle of Omotenashi, Nobu anticipates each need with quiet precision—an ethos that extends beyond the plate to wellness rituals like the Omakase Spa, where treatments are curated with the same artistry and intention as its cuisine. Whether you’re checking into Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay for a beachfront escape or Nobu Hotel Chicago for urban sophistication, the brand delivers a consistent yet locally inspired experience—now spanning four continents.

5. Cromlix Hotel, Stirlingshire

Set amid the gentle folds of Stirlingshire’s countryside, Cromlix Hotel is a Victorian mansion owned by tennis legend Andy Murray and his wife Kim. Surrounded by 34 acres of woodland and gardens, the estate offers a retreat where heritage and nature converse in quiet harmony. Inside, each room, suite, and gate lodge is individually designed—ranging from charming garden retreats to turreted hideaways.

The experience extends beyond the stay. At the Glasshouse Restaurant, seasonal Scottish ingredients are elevated with French finesse by the team at Chez Roux, served in a striking conservatory that opens onto the grounds. Cromlix is also a storybook setting for weddings and celebrations, complete with a private chapel, historic architecture, and endless photo opportunities. Bespoke packages—from champagne teas to candlelit dinners—are tailored with warmth and precision. Guests can spend the afternoon on the tennis court or join guided foraging walks through the estate’s woodlands. Whether gathering wild herbs or exchanging vows beneath ancient trees, Cromlix offers a countryside retreat that feels both romantic and quietly restorative.

6. The Brando, Tetiaroa

For those seeking something both eco-conscious and intimate, this exclusive eco-resort on the private atoll of Tetiaroa is your ideal destination. American actor Marlon Brando purchased it in the 1960s, having fallen in love with the place during the filming of Mutiny on the Bounty. His dream was clear: to create a sanctuary where luxury could coexist with sustainability and deep respect for local culture. Today, that vision lives on in every corner of the resort, shaped by the elements and protected by coral reefs.

What truly makes it special is its deep commitment to the planet. The resort runs on renewable energy, uses seawater-powered air conditioning, and hosts a climate research center. Its villas are gently elevated among native vegetation, thoughtfully woven into the landscape without disturbing the natural surroundings. Its pioneering sustainability model has earned multi-prestigious awards and global recognition, placing it among the world’s most respected eco-luxury destinations. If what you’re craving is space to breathe, reconnect, and simply be, this haven awaits—just as the Polynesians call it: fare, home.

A head-to-head Comparison: Top 5 Luxury Suitcases for Sophisticated Travelers

by Little Travel Queen | Sep 10, 2025 | Travel

Lately, during the travel season, the Little Travel Queen has come to select several sophisticated suitcases and compare her favorite brands head-to-head.

RIMOWA — Silent Innovation & Bespoke Precision

RIMOWA is the embodiment of German engineering and minimalist grace. Its sleek silhouette suits the woman who moves swiftly between continents, whether by jet or business class. The RIMOWA UNIQUE program allows for refined customization—leather handles, wheel colors, monogrammed tags—so your luggage becomes a signature piece.

Beyond aesthetics, RIMOWA offers a lifetime warranty on functional damage and a global repair network. It’s not just luggage—it’s peace of mind in motion.

Globe-Trotter — Heritage Craftsmanship & Sentimental Luxury

Founded in 1897, Globe-Trotter evokes the golden age of travel. With leather accents, rigid frames, and hand-finished details, each case feels like a chapter from a novel. It’s ideal for women who appreciate vintage elegance and quiet luxury.

Limited editions and designer collaborations—such as the James Bond or Liberty London collections—make each piece a collectible. For boutique escapes and romantic journeys, Globe-Trotter is luggage that tells a story.

Carl Friedrik — Scandinavian Restraint & Executive Refinement

Carl Friedrik blends modern elegance with Scandinavian discipline. Crafted from vegan leather and aluminum, its suitcases are designed for women who navigate the business world with precision and poise.

Though it offers no customization, its interiors are meticulously engineered—compression pads, tech sleeves, and garment compartments reflect the needs of a modern executive. With a lifetime warranty, Carl Friedrik is understated, durable, and quietly powerful.

Sterling Pacific — Indestructible Elegance for the Bold Traveler

Sterling Pacific is forged from aircraft-grade aluminum and built to endure. Whether tossed into the hold of a jet or rolled across cobblestones in Marrakech, it retains its shape—and its grace.

Its bold, polished exterior is quietly indestructible, and its direct customer support reflects the same ethos: strength without compromise, elegance without fragility. For women who travel far and often, Sterling Pacific is a statement of conviction.

TUMI — Smart Functionality & Coordinated Luxury

TUMI is the tech-savvy luxury choice. Designed for frequent flyers, it offers intelligent features like the Tracer® recovery system, modular packing solutions, and coordinated travel sets that move as effortlessly as you do.

Whether traveling solo or with family and staff, TUMI ensures every detail is in place. Subtle personalization—monogrammed tags, curated accessories—and a global repair network make it a trusted companion for women who value elegance with purpose.

Quick Comparison Summary

Dressed to Depart: High-End Fashion for the Cultured Traveler

by Little Travel Queen | Sep 2, 2025 | Fashion

Before the journey begins, there is the quiet ritual of dressing. Not for spectacle, but for presence. For those who travel not merely to arrive, but to inhabit each moment with grace, the wardrobe becomes a trusted companion—chosen with care, worn with conviction. Luxury here is not loud. It’s felt in the weight of cashmere, the curve of a zipper, the silence of a coat that fits like memory. These are the houses that understand movement as meaning.

ZEGNA

In the hills of Trivero, ZEGNA emerged not as a brand, but as a philosophy woven in wool. Since 1910, it has crafted garments that murmur of legacy, nature, and devotion. Each thread carries the hush of alpine air and the discipline of quiet mastery.

To wear ZEGNA is to move with intention. A jacket from the Oasi Cashmere collection doesn’t just warm—it envelops, like mountain air at dawn. The Triple Stitch™ Sneakers offer elegance in motion, designed for those who travel lightly but never without poise. ZEGNA is not fashion for the moment—it’s style for the journey.

Brunello Cucinelli

In the sunlit village of Solomeo, Brunello Cucinelli creates more than clothing—it crafts a way of living. Rooted in humanistic values, each piece reflects dignity, balance, and timeless grace.

Cashmere here is not a luxury—it’s a language spoken softly, with purpose. A linen blazer at sunset, a knit layered for a morning walk—these garments don’t perform, they accompany. Cucinelli invites the traveler to move slowly, to dress with intention, and to find beauty in restraint. Fashion here listens before it speaks, designed for those who value elegance with soul.

Loro Piana

Loro Piana speaks in hushed tones. Since 1924, it has favored purity over excess, crafting garments from vicuña, baby cashmere, and lotus flower fiber. Each piece feels like nature distilled—soft, serene, and elemental.

These clothes don’t decorate the traveler. They become part of the moment. Whether sailing the Aegean or strolling through Milan, Loro Piana offers quiet elegance. It’s not about being seen—it’s about being in tune with the world around you. For those who seek serenity in motion, this is a wardrobe of stillness and grace.

The Row

The Row began with a single white T-shirt and a question: what does perfection feel like? Founded by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, the brand has become a study in restraint. Its silhouettes are architectural, its palette muted and timeless.

Designed for those who move deliberately, these garments hold their shape and whisper rather than shout. From the stillness of Amalfi to the rhythm of Tokyo, The Row adapts without ever losing its essence. It’s fashion for the cultivated traveler—quiet, clear, and enduring.

Akris

Swiss by birth, global by instinct. Akris designs for women who move with clarity and confidence. Founded in 1922 in St. Gallen, the house is known for its precision—clean lines, double-face wool, and technical silks that flow like intuition.

Akris doesn’t dress for destinations. It dresses for transitions. These pieces accompany change, holding their shape through movement. For the traveler who values continuity over spectacle, Akris offers refined resilience and effortless grace.

Moncler

Born in the French Alps in 1952, Moncler was made for altitude. Its quilted jackets, once worn by mountaineers, now stride through cities with the same resilience. Under Remo Ruffini, the brand blends performance with polish, turning outerwear into a statement.

A Moncler parka is more than protection—it’s posture. Whether navigating Chamonix’s peaks or Milan’s pavements, its garments carry the energy of motion and the elegance of arrival. Moncler is luxury in motion: precise, enduring, and quietly commanding.

Tom Ford

Tom Ford doesn’t whisper—he asserts with precision. Since 2005, his designs have turned tailoring into theater. Midnight-hued trousers, silk lapels, and fragrances that linger longer than words. Every piece is a statement, crafted with deliberate artistry.

For the traveler who arrives before they speak, Ford offers definition. These garments frame the body with clarity and presence. It’s not just fashion—it’s a declaration, worn with confidence and delivered with style. Tom Ford is elegance with edge, designed for impact.

Luca Faloni

Crafted in Italy, inspired by the Riviera. Luca Faloni designs for the traveler who values ease without compromise. Using premium materials like brushed cashmere and breathable linen, the brand offers timeless staples that transition effortlessly from airport lounge to coastal terrace.

A linen shirt worn open at sunset, a cashmere polo layered for a morning flight—these garments are made for motion, but never rushed. Luca Faloni favors simplicity with substance: no logos, no excess, just refined essentials that speak of quiet confidence. For those who travel light but live fully, this is understated luxury at its finest.

In the art of departure, clothing becomes more than fabric—it becomes philosophy. These houses don’t merely dress the traveler; they define the rhythm of the journey. Whether in silence or statement, each garment is a gesture of grace. To travel well is to dress with meaning—and to move through the world with intention.

Luxury in a Bottle: Skincare That Feels Like Couture

by Little Travel Queen | Aug 19, 2025 | Skincare

It has been whispered in the most refined drawing rooms and among the vanities of discerning ladies: true luxury is no longer only confined to silk gowns or candlelit galas. It resides in the quiet elegance of a morning ritual, in the delicate touch of a cream upon the cheek, in the serenity of choosing oneself.

1. La Mer: A Legend Born of Sea and Science

Among the most whispered names in the realm of radiant skin, La Mer reigns supreme. Its origin, a tale worthy of candlelit retelling, begins with Dr. Max Huber—a physicist whose quest for healing led him to the ocean’s depths. There, he unearthed the Miracle Broth™, a fermented elixir of sea kelp and rare nutrients, now the soul of every La Mer creation.

To apply Crème de la Mer is to indulge in a moment of transformation. Rich, velvety, and impossibly soothing, it envelops the skin like a silk gown after a warm bath. It does not merely moisturize—it whispers comfort, restores grace, and leaves the complexion with the quiet glow of someone who knows her worth.

2. Elizabeth Arden: Timeless Elegance in a Golden Capsule

For over a century, Elizabeth Arden has graced vanities with the quiet dignity of a name synonymous with refinement. Her legacy, woven into the very fabric of beauty history, lives on in the Ceramide Capsules—golden droplets of restoration, each one a miniature heirloom of skin-strengthening lipids.

To open one is to begin a ritual as intimate as a handwritten note. They glide effortlessly, restoring elasticity and fortifying the skin’s barrier, all while fitting discreetly into the palm of a gloved hand. A treasure for the traveler, a delight for the connoisseur.

3. Augustinus Bader: The Silent Genius of Regeneration

There are those who speak loudly, and those whose brilliance whispers. Augustinus Bader belongs to the latter. Conceived by a German stem cell scientist, this brand is the embodiment of quiet luxury—minimalist in appearance, maximalist in effect.

The Rich Cream, infused with the patented TFC8® complex, does not dazzle with scent or flourish. Instead, it communes with the skin, guiding it gently toward renewal. It is the kind of elegance that does not beg for attention, but commands it nonetheless.

4. La Prairie: A Swiss Sonata in Caviar

In the snow-kissed heights of Switzerland, where time seems to pause and perfection is a birthright, La Prairie was born. Its Skin Caviar collection is not merely skincare—it is a symphony of science and sensuality.

Infused with rare caviar extract, each formulation lifts, firms, and caresses the skin with textures so sumptuous they rival the finest silks. The packaging, sculptural and regal, evokes the feeling of entering a private spa overlooking the Alps. A realm where every detail is curated, and every moment is yours.

5. Tata Harper: Nature’s Noble Touch

For those who seek purity without compromise, Tata Harper offers a verdant escape. Handcrafted on a Vermont estate, her formulations marry green technology with botanical brilliance.

The Resurfacing Mask, a blend of BHA and fruit enzymes, delivers a glow so radiant it rivals the morning sun. Applying it is akin to strolling barefoot through a dew-kissed garden—fresh, alive, and utterly luxurious. Proof that nature, when treated with reverence, can be the most exquisite couturier of all.

6. Sisley Paris: Poetry in Petals

From the salons of Paris comes Sisley, a name that dances on the lips of those who know true sophistication. The Black Rose Cream Mask is its crown jewel, a sensorial delight that transforms dull skin into a canvas of vitality.

With its delicate floral scent and plumping effect, it invites you to linger, to breathe, to savor. There is poetry in its petals, and a kind of romance in the way it restores. It is not merely a mask—it is a moment.

7. SkinCeuticals: Science in Silk Gloves

Though clinical in appearance, SkinCeuticals delivers results that rival the most opulent of treatments. The CE Ferulic serum, beloved by dermatologists and devotees alike, is a masterclass in antioxidant protection.

With its potent blend of vitamins C, E, and ferulic acid, it brightens, firms, and shields with precision. It is proof that science, when dressed in intention, can be as beautiful as any ballroom gown.

Luxury skincare is not a matter of vanity—it is a matter of reverence. It is the art of choosing with intention, of honoring the skin not as a surface, but as a story. Whether you are preparing for a gala in Milan or enjoying a quiet morning wrapped in cashmere, these brands offer more than results. They offer ritual, refinement, and the pleasure of feeling exquisitely cared for.

Top 10 Luxury Hotels in Dubai for a Lavish Stay

by Little Travel Queen | May 25, 2024 | Crowned

This guide highlights the top 10 luxury hotels in Dubai, each offering an elevated experience of extravagance and refinement. From breathtaking views to world-class service, these properties promise to redefine the meaning of luxury.

1. Atlantis The Royal

Atlantis The Royal in Dubai showcases a stunning blend of luxury and innovation, featuring unique underwater suites that offer guests an immersive view of marine life in the Ambassador Lagoon. Beyond its iconic accommodations, the hotel offers an array of high-end amenities, including the renowned Aquaventure Waterpark, celebrity chef-led dining experiences, and a lavish spa. The property’s expansive beachfront and remarkable architecture provide an unforgettable backdrop for any stay.

2. The Lana Hotel

The Lana Hotel stands out for its Skyline Rooftop Lounge, which offers sweeping views of Dubai’s iconic skyline. This exclusive venue is ideal for guests seeking a sophisticated setting to enjoy cocktails while taking in the vibrant cityscape. With its modern design and prime location, The Lana Hotel offers both style and convenience, making it a top choice for discerning travelers.

3. Kempinski Hotel & Residences

Kempinski Hotel & Residences blends modern sophistication with Alpine-inspired design. A standout feature of this luxury property is its indoor ski slope, offering a rare opportunity to experience winter sports in the desert. Its gourmet dining options, impeccable service, and distinctive charm make it a premier choice for those seeking a unique and opulent retreat.

4. Armani Hotel Dubai

Designed by iconic fashion maestro Giorgio Armani, Armani Hotel Dubai epitomizes understated luxury. The hotel’s Armani Spa offers a tranquil space for relaxation, while its sleek, contemporary interiors provide an elegant atmosphere. The hotel’s fine dining establishments, including innovative Italian and international cuisine, ensure a memorable gastronomic experience.

5. Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah offers a refined escape along the shores of the iconic Palm Jumeirah. Guests enjoy breathtaking sea views, exclusive access to a private beach, and a variety of acclaimed restaurants offering world-class cuisine. This serene sanctuary is a hallmark of elegance and luxury.

6. The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

Located along the Arabian Gulf, The Ritz-Carlton Dubai offers stunning views and a range of premium amenities. The rooms and suites, blending contemporary design with traditional Arabian elements, create a welcoming ambiance for luxury travelers. The beachfront location, opulent spa, and impeccable service make this property the embodiment of relaxation in the heart of the city.

7. Palazzo Versace Dubai

Palazzo Versace Dubai stands as an icon of opulence in Dubai’s Culture Village. Each room and suite reflects the grandeur of the Versace brand, with luxurious furnishings, Italian marble finishes, and captivating views of Dubai Creek. The hotel’s unparalleled glamour and sophisticated charm make it a must-visit for those seeking lavish surroundings.

8. Palace Downtown Hotel

Situated in Downtown Dubai, Palace Downtown offers captivating views of the city’s skyline and provides easy access to its top attractions. The rooms and suites blend Arabian charm with modern amenities, ensuring a luxurious stay. This property is ideal for those seeking both cultural immersion and contemporary comfort.

9. Address Grand Creek Harbour

Address Grand Creek Harbour offers luxury and refinement in the bustling Creek Harbour district. With breathtaking views of Dubai Creek and iconic landmarks, the hotel provides an unforgettable experience. Guests can indulge in exquisite dining at its fine restaurants, showcasing a variety of international cuisines curated by expert chefs.

10. Conrad Hotel Dubai

Conrad Hotel Dubai offers contemporary luxury in a prime downtown location. Guests are treated to an exceptional dining experience, with an array of world-class restaurants offering a range of global cuisines. With its outstanding service, central location, and exquisite culinary options, the Conrad Hotel ensures an unforgettable stay.