Earlier this week Fodor's announced the winners of the Fodor's 2012 Hotel Awards. Out of 4,000 hotels that were nominated, 100 hotels spanning 41 countries and 9 categories were recognized for their excellence. From new & noteworthy to best all-inclusive, we've selected our picks-- the best of the best in each category. To see the rest of the winners click HERE.

French Polynesia is not just a haven with expensive resorts for honeymooners. It is a wildly colorful group of island-states that offer a range of cultural and natural discoveries that are sure to inspire you, whether you’re seeking the next great adventure in life or simply in need of some relaxing scenery to compliment your rest and relaxation. Here are 5 very different, but unforgettable experiences to get you started in the South Pacific. More»

[Hotel Roosevelt, via]

From LA to New Orleans and everywhere in between, we've rounded up seven of the spookiest hotels in the country. Lights flicker for no reason, doors open without cause, and ghosts roam the halls. Here's where to check-in if you're up for a serious scare! More»

With Western pop culture slowly seeping in to the city in the recent years, the very American holiday of Halloween is starting to gain traction in Shanghai. Feel like adding a touch of Oriental flavour to your life this Halloween? Go to these locally-loved places in the French quarters of Shanghai for a party that will blow your mind away. More»

If you're ready to get away and not looking to take photos in front of monuments, or walk the city with shopping bags, or take guided tours, there are some places that are worth visiting just to party. So instead of carrying a map and a camera around your neck, bring your dancing shoes and check out these places where you can party through the sunrise. And in some cases, the space between the day parties and the nightlife is only long enough for a siesta. From beaches in Thailand to taking shots of vodka in the former USSR, here are some great spots to party it up the way the locals do. More»

Next time you're trying to choose a hotel, search for one that offers more than just a concierge who makes dinner reservations, or a bell-hop who brings your bags to the room. We've rounded-up some of the most absurd, unknown, and fabulous hotel amenities you never knew existed! More»

When the cold starts to creep in, head across the Pacific to Vietnam, a country whose main source of income is tourism. The Southeast Asian nation has pristine yet uncrowded beaches, amazingly cheap eats, and boasts its number one export, coffee. From trips to an old Buddhist state to shopping for hand-stitched silk clothes, there are plenty of ways to take on the country after leaving your beach-side bungalow. More»

Located within easy driving distance of Manhattan, the Hudson Valley is the perfect place to escape to in order to get the most out of the fall weather, foliage, and fun. From Rhinebeck to Woodstock, we've rounded up some of the best places to visit this fall in the Hudson Valley. More»

While many people have been lucky enough to be wowed by the international appeal of Sydney and Melbourne, only a select few have truly had the pleasure of seeing Australia in its natural glory. The silent, unassuming luxury retreats are as low key as the people who choose to go there, and these places are like nothing you’ve seen before. Think you know Australia? Here are a few places that might make you re-think what exactly it is you thought you knew. More»

One of the best things about going on holiday is the change of scenery. The other best thing is the ability to do something out of the norm and release your inhibitions. Here are six extraordinary resorts that will help you do just that, with the added perk of a private pool that provides the ultimate privacy. More»

The weather is quickly changing in New York, but in Italy, they're still enjoying a few more weeks of warmth. From Rome to Florence to Venice, here are 5 rooftop bars to savor the end of the season. More»