If you are looking for the definitive winter vacation that will get you far away from the American and European mainland and will ensure that you get some summer heat as well, then what better place than on the other side of the equator down under. While Australia is already renowned for its tourist attractions, its trans-Tasmanian rival New Zealand in fact is a notch better. Close to the Antarctic, rich in wildlife diversity and unparallel in natural beauty, this island nation holds a tourist destination that is both little known and appreciated.

Hidden away in a rugged 2,500 acres of native forest on the edge of the Mamaku Plateau and some 140 miles southeast of Auckland, Treetops Lodge & Estate is an untouched heaven of tranquility and solace. The majestic mountains, unending flora, captivating fauna and volcanic special attractions make it the perfect destination for those looking to detach themselves from the mundane.

Blessed with breathtaking diversity and picture-perfect panorama, Treetops houses in its vast expanse a game reserve, seven trout streams, four lakes and over 70 kilometers of hiking trails. With adventure activities such as mountain biking, horse riding, trekking, fishing and plenty of other stuff, this holiday experience will also add a few extra skills to your resume.

Dubbed as the most colorful geothermal landscape on the planet (along with Hawaii) bubbling mud pools, volcanic craters and geysers will add further excitement to the visit. While lodging on Treetops starts at $400 a night; the eight private villas, immaculate cuisine and lavish comforts will keep you pampered.

Mardan Palace looks like a dream and costs like one too. Touted as the most expensive hotel in Europe, this one serves a glass of champagne for £25. The decor is spectacular to say the least. Bathrooms have gold plated mirrors on the floor, toilets are remote controlled and the gorgeous private beach has been created from white sand imported from Egypt. By the way, it took 9,000 tons to fill up the area.

The inaugural party was held at the 800 million pounds worth luxury resort in Antalya, Turkey that had an opening party attended by the likes of Richard Gere, Sharon Stone and Mariah Carey. We even heard that Paris Hilton might have made a fleeting appearance. In other words, luxury resorts are always a hit with the Richie Richs.

Now, back to Mardan Palace. This one is decorated with 500,000 crystals and 23,000 square meters of Italian marble. It has 560 rooms that include two Royal Suites with private pools. By the by, you can enjoy a romantic gondola ride. Enjoy the delicious food served at the waterside Italian restaurant serves in  £1.35 million worth of Hermes crockery.

Via dailymail

The foremost question I asked myself after coming across the tag of £5 mn Leonardslee garden was what makes it demand such a hefty price? And the answer was ready with Robin Loder, who feels proud having spent 27 years in this Sussex countryside. The presence of trees here is only rare but the only known specimens across the globe. With no signs indicating to cautiously pass through the unique shrubs, Loder says the beautiful garden demands obvious behavior. Extensively known as one of the finest gardens in Europe, Leonardslee is an energetic pill for all the succeeding cohorts of Loders. The collection of Victorian cars amidst Sika deer, the giant carp makes this place splendidly eccentric.

Since the horticultural king Victorian baronet Sir Edmund Loder purchased it in 1889, and hardly any efforts were made to nurture it, thereby leading to its sale of the original 700 acres. Fortunately, this Grade I-listed plot has gone from vigor to strength. In the upcoming weeks, Leonardslee’s 225 acres of rhododendrons, camellias, azaleas and numerous plants and trees will burst forth in a dizzying riot of shades. And now why it is up for sale? It is because Robin and his wife, Jane, have retired and their four grown-up kids have unwillingly determined that they don’t have the necessary ardor to take the place ahead.

Thomas Loder along with his twin sister Mary is firm on the thought that the new owner can do justice to its beauty.

The manor agent Savills has smacked a £5million price tag on an estate that needs a full-time gardening staff of seven. The garden comes with an integrated six-bedroom house, stable block, a flourishing restaurant and several cottages. Also, realizing the most of opportunity you can think eye the old Loder family mansion that is up for sale demanding £3.25 million. So, a total spill over of £8 million can offer you a possession you would take pride in.

Via DailyMail