The Modern Chateau \ Bonnieux, France

Having seen photos beforehand, I knew this was a unique place, but nothing could truly prepare me for experiencing this home. The rotating floor to ceiling windows allowed the surrounding environment in, with soft breezes carrying throughout the home. I love how the vegetation was left in its natural state, as if the house was literally placed from above. Yes, this is a special place indeed. Click here to see more photos of this stunning home designed by Studio Ko.

Metafort \ Design Bed & Breakfast

Having recently visited Metafort, I have to say that this beautiful space completely encapsulates what I see as 'The Perfect hideaway'. A boutique property with 5 rooms and an apartment, a unique location, all designed with an incredible aesthetic that is both minimal and thoughtful, with accents of color and touches that make it feel like home. But the clincher is that it is run by an amazing couple that literally built it from the ground up, salvaging a 17th century house and creating both a space and experience that leaves you wanting more. I already want to go back...

Click here for more photos.

40 Winks \ "Micro-Boutique Hotel"

We recently stayed at this 4 story, 300 year old Queen Ann House on Mile End Road in trendy East London. It has been lovingly restored and transformed into an extraordinary and slightly eccentric world by acclaimed interior designer David Carter. Now a favorite for fashion shoots and stylish, in-the-know visitors looking for somewhere a little bit different to stay in the capital, the two bedrooms tend to be booked out months in advance. Click here for more photos.

The Greenwich Hotel / Penthouse

Teaming up with design guru Axel Vervoordt, co-owners Robert De Niro and Ira Drukier created something quite unusual with the newly opened penthouse suite in the Greenwich Hotel. Designed in the wabi spirit, it " invokes a feeling of silence and space in the middle of New York". The elements of a wabi-sabi space often appear simple or rustic and show signs of age; a reminder of the transience and imperfection of all things. Each piece, from a wooden door frame to a ceramic vase, must be carefully selected and artfully arranged in the wabi spirit.

The costs of achieving this kind of minimalism are eye-watering, and seemingly inconsistent with its mission of aesthetic humility. At $15,000 per night, I would have to agree.

Le Marche St George / Vancouver

Nestled in a charming Vancouver neighborhood in the Mount Pleasant area, Le Marche St. George is tastefully manicured apartment ornamented with family heirlooms and exquisite art pieces. Only the owner, Janaki, a former Emily Carr student and set designer, could make this creation look so effortless. The stunning one bedroom apartment is located above her incredibly quaint shop, which sells a tasteful selection of local goods and organic produce, delicious coffees, artisan pieces and a beautiful collection of worldy wares. With its rustic European feel, it's easy to spend hours combing the shelves and savoring the delicious treats. 

Rented on a weekly and monthly basis, the apartment is currently booked until January 2015.

Images courtesy of Le Marche St George