If you’re searching for one of the best hotels in Tokyo, Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku might be the one. I had such a pleasure staying at this serene retreat in the heart of Shinjuku just a couple of weeks ago. I’m already thinking of when I can visit again when the weather isn’t too hot for a longer soak in their open-air onsen while taking in stunning views of the city skyline.

With a modern take on a traditional style inn, this hotel offers a perfect mix of relaxation and convenience, making it an ideal staycation spot if you’re visiting/staying in Tokyo for a long time. The minimalist design throughout the hotel and rooms with natural wood details create a calm atmosphere that feels worlds away from Shinjuku’s busy streets.

For me, the traditional Japanese breakfast, included with the stay was definitely the highlight. It was beautifully presented, with such nourishing dishes like grilled fish, steamed rice, miso soup, and pickles. It was the perfect start to my mornings and also part of the overall relaxing stay.

Since it is located just a short walk from Shinjuku Station, Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku is perfectly situated for exploring Tokyo’s top attractions, shopping, and dining — but if you’re in the mood for something new and delicious nearby, I recommend having lunch at GRIN, a chic Italian place right outside of Shinjuku Gyoen.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, I’ve curated a special collection of my favorite stays in the country and some of the best hotels in Tokyo through my very own Expedia’s Travel Shop. My "All Around Japan" collection features handpicked hotels like Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku and other hotels that I’ve stayed at and loved. These are places I personally recommend for anyone seeking a memorable experience across Japan. Make sure to check out my Travel Shop when you’re planning for your next Tokyo adventure!

Press/Media Stay. All opinions are my own. Discover more unique hotel stays in Japan like Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku. See more Asia Destinations on FOREVERVANNY.
—
Camera Gear Used: Nikon D750 (body only) with 50mm F1/4 and 24-85mm F3.5 lens.

VIEW POST

A Design Stay at Uma Casa in CDMX, Mexico

Finally sharing this gem of a hotel with you guys after just staying there again for the second time on our most recent trip to CDMX. I get really lucky on my travels because most of the hotels end up meeting my expectations, but Uma Casa was one of those that exceeded them completely. This family-run boutique hotel located in the upscale Lomas de Chapultepec neighborhood offers an unparalleled experience that's both modern and elegant, with a touch of Mexican heritage that truly sets it apart from any of my other hotel experiences in Mexico City.

While the hotel's design is sleek and sophisticated, with luxurious amenities and spacious rooms, it is the cozy feeling like you're in your very own home that makes it difficult to leave. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the surrounding neighborhood making it the perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine in the evening. What really makes Uma Casa one of my favorite hotels in Mexico City is the impeccable and attentive service. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure that their guests have a memorable and enjoyable stay, from providing recommendations on nearby restaurants and activities to making sure that every need is taken care of. On our first trip, the hotel even helped me coordinate a whole excursion to see Teotihuacan with just a day's prior notice.

While the hotel isn't located in the bustling areas of CDMX such as Roma Norte or Polanco, having stayed here during our very first trip to Mexico City, and this second trip, I would argue that the location is ideal for those looking to return to a cozy room to recoup and recover for exploring the city. For me, Uma Casa is the perfect choice for anyone looking for the best hotel in Mexico City. It offers a luxurious and comfortable retreat that perfectly captures the city's vibrant energy and rich cultural heritage, with impeccable service that's second to none.

Bookmark this boutique design hotel Uma Casa for your next visit to Mexico City. See more unique hotels on FOREVERVANNY.
—
Camera Gear Used: Nikon D750 (body only) with 50mm F1/4 and 24-85mm F3.5 lens.

VIEW POST

A Chic Beach Stay at Posada Ayana, Jose Ignacio, Uruguay

I've mentioned before in a previous post of our trip in Uruguay, but truly, this was a country that I don't think I would be visiting had I not have this opportunity to live in South America. I'll also confess that it wasn't hard to convince me to go, when I learned about this amazing property on Punta del Este called Posada Ayana. If you know me, or have been following along, I'm sure you can get a sense that I'm not very much a beach person. But visiting Uruguay and spending a few days at Jose Ignacio, I was kind of convince that I could ease into that beach life if more beaches were as stunning as the ones in Uruguay. Shun and I spent most of our days soaking up the sun and tasting a bunch of Uruguayan wines that we've never tried before. Most of the photos are taken at Posada Ayana, and one full beach day. Below, I've highlight some of the takeaways from our 4 days, 3 nights trip here.

To Stay

Posada Ayana is a small boutique hotel located in the charming town of Jose Ignacio, Punta del Este in Uruguay. As a small family run boutique hotel, it offers exceptional service, stunning ocean views, and a serene atmosphere that left me feeling refreshed and constantly inspired by all of the art-filled walls and corners. From the moment I arrived, I was swept away by the hotel's unique charm and elegance. My boyfriend and I were lucky to grab a room on the second floor that had views of the property's very own Ta Khut Skyspace by James Turrell.

To Eat

While the town is really quaint, there are some pretty great eateries close by. On the day that we went out to the beach, we had some drinks and fresh seafood at a stunning shack right on the sand, called El Chiringo. After a long day of soaking up the sun and exploring Jose Ignacio, we had the option of heading back to the hotel for a delicious dinner at the on-site restaurant or enjoy a wine-filled dinner at Solera, which was only a few minutes walk away.

To Do

One of the highlights of staying at Posada Ayana is experiencing the Ta Khut Skyspace installation by James Turrell. Fun fact, but this unique art installation is the first free-standing Skyspace in South America, and Posada Ayana is the only property in the world that hosts its very own James Turrell. It combines architecture, sculpture, and astronomy to create an immersive and contemplative space. As a guest of the hotel, I was able to privately access the exhibit straight from the hotel.

Punta del Este is a popular beach destination, so you can surely expect to find yourself close to some of the most pristine beaches where you can eat, sunbathe, kitesurf, and leisurely spend your day. On a not so windy day, you can enjoy a stroll towards the infamous Faro of Jose Ignacio and then climb up to enjoy the view. For something a bit more relaxing, I definitely recommend checking out some art galleries, and have a coffee at Rizoma.

Uruguay was such a gem of a trip for me, and one of my most relaxing trip so far in South America. If you're looking for stunning beaches that's off the radar, I couldn't recommend Punta del Este enough.

Press/Media Stay. All opinions are my own. Discover the stunning beach town of Uruguay at Posada Ayana. See more South America Destinations on FOREVERVANNY.
—
Camera Gear Used: Nikon D750 (body only) with 50mm F1/4 and 24-85mm F3.5 lens.

VIEW POST