A big "explosion" over a year in bedbug infestations is being blamed on the hard-to-kill pests hitching rides to Auckland on increasing numbers of world travellers.

A secluded country house amid olive groves offers boutique hotel services as well as outstanding views, says Mick Webb.

Packages with 'the comforts of home' on New Zealand's Great Walks are gaining popularity.

Sinalei Resort is better than ever after being rebuilt, says Chloe Johnson.

Matthew Bell experiences some Old World glamour in the stately surrounds of Tuscany's Castello di Casole.

It's been 50 years since the former British colony gained independence and, says Boyd Tonkin, it's in the mood to celebrate.

Sean Mooney gets a first-hand history lesson at the heritage-listed Medina Grand Adelaide Treasury hotel.

Rhiannon Batten discovers a gingerbread house with gourmet extras in the historic market town of Knaresborough.

This 'barn' getaway is design-fabulous and about as un-rustic as a cottage in mid-Wales can be. Light floods into the colossal living room upstairs through substantial glass panels cut into the sides and the gable end - but instead of delivering a Manhattan-style skyline, the panorama serves as an ever present reminder of rural bliss.

For further information see redkitebarn.co.uk.

Can accommodation be all things to all people? Samuel Muston checks in to find out.

This boutique New York City hotel is one of a growing number of accommodation providers to invert the 'gay-friendly' tag and market itself as a 'straight-friendly gay hotel'.

For further information see theoutnyc.com.

Hotel chains in the rowdy Mallorcan resort town are aiming to attract a more upmarket clientele as Spain's financial crisis bites.

There's a spot in Waiuku where your troubles are kneaded away, writes Eveline Harvey.

Reflecting its location, this 19th-century apartment marries Ottoman heritage with modern flourishes, writes Arifa Akbar.

Set on the third floor of a 19th century building overlooking the Bosphorus, this spacious apartment can comfortably accommodate up to six people in its three bedrooms.

For further information see istanbulplace.com.

Belinda Henley discovers a unique five-star accommodation offering on a working high country farm near Wanaka.

Banff is picture-postcard perfect, but as Kathryn Powley finds, you need to keep an eye out for the wildlife.

Danielle Wright takes a look at NZ's more unusual accommodation options.

Spa nudges guests into healthier lifestyles, writes Anne Gibson.

Luke Blackall saddles up for the first time during a visit to a wonderfully remote Montana ranch.

Leah McLennan spends two nights sampling the array of relaxation options on offer at Sir Richard Branson's heart-shaped Australian getaway.

This idyllic spot in Western Australia is the ideal place to try glamping - glamorous camping - for the first time.

For further information see ecobeach.com.au.

When this unique slice of Swedish real estate came to market some 200 bidders wanted to get their hands on it.