There’s no shortage of fine hotels in Paris so the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group had to craft their own version of luxury in the City of Lights. Mission accomplished. When the Mandarin Oriental Paris opened its doors in June 2011 with 99 rooms and 39 suites, a splendid new luxury hotel icon was born.

The “wow” starts the minute you walk into the Mandarin Oriental Paris’ light and art-filled lobby. Visually stunning at every turn, no expense was spared …

It’s been a quiet editorial week on Ciao Bambino as I’ve been the dedicated family travel media representative in Cannes at International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM). This is the travel industry’s best luxury event where global brands roll out all they have in store for the upcoming year.

The exciting news is that families were a huge topic of discussion for practically every luxury travel company. New luxury is being defined as 100% individual travel experiences …

If you live in Europe or are there for a trip without kids this winter, a two-night getaway to Whitepod, an eco-luxury hotel in Switzerland, is the ultimate romantic escape. 40 geodesic tents (pods) perched over a valley overlook fantastic Alpine scenery. It’s definitely glamping – not camping – as each pod includes a wood stove, a cozy bed, and a complete bathroom. The tent stays toasty but one parent must stoke the fire all night long. Part of the fun!

When you think of a California beach vacation images of surfers and waves come to mind. Add family and kids into the mix and images of sand castles and beach umbrellas come into the picture. All this plus truly spectacular cliff top view of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island with top-notch service is what families find at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel.

Located in Southern Orange County, an hour from Los Angeles and San Diego, the resort is a convenient location for day trips up and down the coast. It’s well-suited for families that want activity or relaxation (or both). Foodies will enjoy the emphasis on high-quality fresh ingredients while parents appreciate the amenities …

As the Omni Mount Washington Resort comes into view, the majestic setting of this historic luxury family resort nestled in among the White Mountains captures your attention. The hotel looks like a castle perched up on a hill, surrounded by the gorgeous golf course greens at the base of the Bretton Woods ski mountain.

The Bretton Woods area is one of the best all-season outdoor recreational spots in the Northeast.

There are many family hotels to choose from on the Fort Lauderdale beach but as I found out on a recent stay, the Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale stands out for its exceptional service. Fort Lauderdale is all about fun and sun, and at the Ritz-Carlton you get all that plus a bit of pampering.

Miami has always been on of our favorite family vacation destinations with a fun international vibe, beautiful white beaches, and loads to do. We love that it’s warm year-round and easy to access from practically anywhere.

Say Miami and people often just think of South Beach, yet that is a small fraction of what makes Miami “The Magic City.” Miami is large and diverse, offering plenty of neighborhoods, each with it’s own appeal.We’ve always stayed in Coconut Grove or South Beach …

I’m going to admit that I’m torn when it comes to my preference for which “bank” is my favorite home-base in Paris with kids. The Right Bank is grand and home to many of the major tourist attractions, while the Left Bank full of personality and wonderful neighborhoods.

The beauty of CB! Approved Relais Christine is that you don’t have to choose. It’s on the Left Bank in the heart of the coveted Saint-Germain-des-Prés, an area brimming with history, incredible boutique shopping, and kid-friendly cafes …

Recently named the number one resort in the United States by Condé Nast Traveler readers, The Resort at Pelican Hill is a unique destination. It’s located on the Newport Coast, between Laguna Beach and Newport Beach in Orange County, California on a gorgeous strip of hilly coastline.

While not directly on the beach, the resort sits on a hillside that offers spectacular views of the ocean and Catalina Island.

I just got back from a whirlwind week at the annual International Luxury Travel Market show in Cannes, France. This invite-only event for the luxury travel community brings exhibitors (hotels, destinations, service providers) together with buyers (tour operators and travel agencies) to dialog share the latest and greatest trends and offerings in luxury travel.

I attended ILTM as media to cover our beloved space, Family Travel. I’m thrilled to report that the luxury travel community absolutely has families on their mind.