Cool Hunting

Palacio del Retiro, Madrid
Of its many qualities, Palacio del Retiro wins the most points for its calming charm and perfect location. The small boutique hotel rests on the edge of Madrid's magnificent central Parque del Gran Retiro. Retiro, both the most coveted residential neighborhood and in walking distance to Chueca and Gran Via, the hopping neighborhoods known for their shopping and outrageous nightlife. (Basically, imagine Central Park...

Jupiter Hotel
by Anna Chisholm Recapturing the heady days of the '60s and '70s when groupies hit the road in hot pursuit of the latest music sensation, the Jupiter Hotel in Portland is vintage Americana incarnate. It's an unassuming roadside motel that houses one of Oregon’s premier music venues and a hub of effervescent creativity. The Doug Fir Lounge is Jupiter's main attraction, a softly lit, mod...

Ponta dos Ganchos Resort, Brazil
Located on a private peninsula along Brazil's Southern coast and part of the esteemed Relaix & Chateaux group, Ponta dos Ganchos ranks among one of the world's most exclusive resorts. With over-the-top luxurious bungalows, genuinely gracious staff, a no kids under 18 policy and plenty of activities that take advantage of the naturally lush surroundings, a trip to the hotel offers the kind of...

Pousada Bromélias
While plenty of hotels rely on luxurious gimmicks and flashy design, elegantly authentic and hospitable places like Pousada Bromélias are harder to come by—in this case, literally. Driving up the washed-out road just outside of Paraty, Brazil is not for the faint of heart, but after bumping along roads through lush green fields dotted with boulders and white flowers, the friendliest staff imaginable greets...