Mary Ellen Schultz

One of the world’s most extensive integrated resorts and new concepts in dining and shopping are bound to make the American traveler think twice before whizzing past the gateway to Asia.

From the lobby’s sand-colored marble and warm wood tones with fresh orchid arrangements, to the waterfall garden esplanade to the guest rooms, the property combines luxury with easy comfort.

More than 300 delegates, including tourism ministers and industry experts from Africa, North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia gathered in Egypt’s Nile-side capital, Cairo.

Djibouti’s brilliant sunshine and Indian Ocean breezes greeted some 200 attendees of the 11th Cultural and Ecotourism Symposium, held January 19-23 in the seaside capital, Djibouti City.

Located on a private islet in the blue-on-blue Red Sea and surrounded by palm trees and bougainvillea gardens, the Djibouti Palace Kempinski (www.kempinski-dibouti.com) feels like a sumptuous, secret hideaway. The $100 million property boasts 177 rooms and suites, plus a 1,100-capacity conference...more >>

Welcoming guests since 1998, Le Meridien Pyramids sits nestled between Cairo's nonstop bustle and the awesome splendor of the Pyramids. Literally across the street from the Pyramids and the Sphinx, the conveniently located hotel (a Starwood Resorts property) is in the Cairo-hugging suburb of...more >>

In upscale Nuevo Vallarta, along Mexico's Pacific Coast on the edge of Banderas Bay—15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta International Airport—is Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort, a five-star getaway that is also a member of the Leading Hotels of the World.