There's no time like a vacation for taking the time to contemplate the night sky, especially with a supermoon and Perseid meteors set to be visible in some places this month. If the idea of observing the celestial bodies as you drift off to sleep sounds appealing, this selection of hotels is for you.
Tswalu Kalahari - South Africa
This private game reserve, located in the South African desert, allows nature lovers to sleep while surrounded by the sounds of the bush, all while contemplating the night sky. Guests can sleep on a luxurious terrace built high above the ground to ensure protection from the occasional wild animal.
Prices start at around $500 per night
More information: www.tswalu.com
Albereta - Italy
The Cabriolet suite in this hotel, a member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux network, allows guests to sleep under the stars thanks to its retractable roof. At the push of a button by the bed, the roof can be opened and closed as desired.
Prices start at around $615
More information: www.albereta.it
Amangiri - USA
Located in the desert of southern Utah, this resort boasts no less than six open-roof suites. Each is shielded from the wind by three walls and provides an unmatched view on the vast desert sky. These suites also have a pool, for those who enjoy midnight swims.
Prices start at around $1500
More information: www.amanresorts.com/amangiri/home.aspx
Las Ventanas al Paraíso - Mexico
Each of the penthouse suites at this luxury hotel has a wide terrace where a king-size bed has been set up. Guests can begin their evening admiring the night sky from their outdoor bed and end it in the other bed inside, or just stay on the terrace to watch the sunrise.
Prices start at around $1600
More information: www.rosewoodhotels.com
Elqui Domos - Chile
A reference among astronomy enthusiasts, this small hotel park invites travelers to stay inside one of several canvas domes. Each of these unusual dwellings contains a loften bed under a roof that opens partially to offer a view onto the heavens. Far from the luxury of the above destinations, the domes are simple and sparsely furnished but provide all the basics. Stargazers will also appreciate the dedicated astronomy observatories located on site.
Source: Relaxnews