Abi Jackson rounds up some elevated accommodation options and finds treehouse living has come a long way.

Built high among the trees of a secluded valley, Chewton Glen’s treehouse suites offer luxury accommodation high in the forest canopy.

For further information see chewtonglen.com.

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.

Located on tiny Dolphin (Yanuca) Island just north of Fiji's main island Viti Levu, this boutique hotel an idyllic place to get away from it all.

For further information see mrandmrssmith.com.

Yes, it can be wet, but sweeping views, soothing massages and awesome birds of prey are just some of the delights to distract you at Wales' luxury Red Kite Barn, writes Sankha Guha.

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.

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.

Just down the road from the Sunshine Coast airport, Novotel Twin Waters Resort is an expansive haven that you'd never have to leave if you didn't feel the need to explore.

Catherine Smith swaps the suburbs for the city and enjoys a foretaste of her dream future.

With a number of fine dining options and the East Day Spa on site, this central Auckland hotel is a great place for a weekend city break.

For further information see skycityauckland.co.nz.

Kerri Jackson takes off to south-western Thailand for a winter break at Club Med's newly revamped Phuket resort.

This resort on the south-western Thai island of Phuket was revamped in early 2012 and now includes an adults-only zen area in addition to its wide range of family-friendly activities.

For further information see clubmed.co.nz.

Ewan McDonald gets a glimpse into how the other half lives when he checks in for a night of pop star-style pampering.

This hotel in central Auckland has played host to everyone from Bill Clinton to Lady Gaga over the years. If you fancy a spot of popstar pampering, check in to its Governor's Suite.

For further information see stamfordhotel.co.nz.

Chris Pritchard retraces the steps of the spies who inhabited Saigon during the Vietnam War.

This luxury lodge, located on beautiful Kangaroo Island off mainland South Australia, is a great place to getaway for an indulgent weekend.

For further information see southernoceanlodge.com.au.