It is a baffling combination of towers, hemicycles, courtyards, conference rooms and tree-filled atriums, all linked together by glass lifts and dark, leather-lined corridors.

ECONOMIST: Charlemagne

The centerpiece of the property is an enormous pool lined with blue iridescent glass-mosaic tiles, with lush sea-grape trees at each corner.

WSJ: The $40 Million Party Pad

Six kilometres east of Ventimiglia, the seaside resort town of Bordighera, also easily reachable by bus or train, has a smattering of trendy cafes and organic produce markets, a long ocean promenade lined with beach bars and glass-walled restaurants, plus a wide shoreline for sunbathing and swimming.

BBC: Have the Italian Riviera all to yourself

Tranquil tones of chocolate, beige and slate were complemented by silk-shaded lamps and oak parquet floors, while folding glass doors lined with filigreed brass screens separated the bedroom from the bath and the sitting room.

FORBES: The Impressive Bulgari Hotel Milan

The Art Nouveau structure, built in 1903, was transformed into a design hotel in 2012, showcasing granite walls lined with contemporary art, and stained glass windows that evoke a Harry Potter-like vibe.

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