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Méribel's first five-star hotel, hip places to stay in Madeira and sleeping under the stars (without camping)
Take me there: Méribel, France
When it comes to glitz, the ski resort of Méribel has long played second fiddle to its glamorous neighbour, Courchevel. But that's all set to change with the opening of Méribel's first five-star hotel in December. With just 42 stylish rooms and suites as well as a rather fabulous spa with pool, hammam and jacuzzi, Le Kaïla (lekaila.com) sits in a prime spot in the centre of the resort, just steps away from the main lifts, giving access to the entire Trois Vallées ski region. A seven-night stay on a half-board basis booked with Scott Dunn (scottdunn.com/ski) costs from £2,500 per person including flights to Geneva and private transfers.
Joanne's travel clinic: A cool place in Madeira
The dilemma My parents have always wanted to go to Madeira, so my husband and I have said we'll take them. I'm worried it will be a bit boring and stuffy. Can you recommend somewhere cool to stay near a good beach? Lisa and Mark, by email
Ten years ago your fears would have been founded, with the Reid's Palace hotel setting the tone of exotic gentility. However, the opening of design hotels such as the Choupana Hills and the Vine in Funchal has injected new life into the island.
The Docks is typical of the new breed of affordable accommodation (€665 per week; ownersdirect.co.uk/madeira/MD325.htm). This historic waterfront house in the harbour village of Paul do Mar has just been converted into three airy apartments with open-plan living areas, exposed stone walls and sea views.
There's a small black volcanic beach on your doorstep or you can head to Calheta to bask on imported golden sand or try diving, snorkelling and surfing. There are some great levada walks from the village which follow old irrigation channels through lush banana plantations up into the hills.
Make time for a day trip to Funchal for the Botanic Gardens and tea at Reid's for a flavour of "old Madeira".
If you have a travel dilemma, email Joanne O'Connor at magazine@observer.co.uk
Three of the best… hotel rooms for stargazing
Few things can rival the romance of falling asleep under a canopy of stars. But you don't need to go as far as camping out to experience the magic of alfresco sleeping
Linthwaite Country House Hotel, Cumbria The Loft suite comes with a retractable glass roof and telescope for stargazing. Cosmic! From £478 per night (linthwaite.com)
Kingfisher Deck, Burgundy Not a room exactly – it lacks walls and a ceiling – more a big double bed in a beautiful garden. From £85 (canopyandstars.co.uk)
Kasbah du Toubkal, Morocco Guests can opt to sleep on the roof terrace of this magical Berber-run lodge in the Atlas Mountains. From €160 (kasbahdutoubkal.com)