Manon Tomzig

Journalist and travel writer, Fireplace contributor

Preservation Society

Noirmoutier: Savor the French Seaside Escape

On the Atlantic coast of France, separated from modern life by the rising tide, the island of Noirmoutier preserves the French oceanside vacation: shellfishing, cycling, and local gastronomy.

Purity of Essence

Korea's Kosmos Ulleungdo Will Replenish You

On a mysterious volcanic island off the coast of South Korea, the nature is extraordinary, and Kosmos Ulleungdo uses every inch of it to help purify and restore its guests.

Ski School

A Beginner’s Guide to the Austrian Alps

Five Alpine villages and twelve Tyrolean hotels anchor our entry-level primer on where to ski and stay in Austria.

Sea World

Kisawa Sanctuary Is a Marine Safari in Mozambique

Most hotels in Mozambique look out over the savanna and its elephants. On a tiny island off the south coast of the country, Kisawa Sanctuary has chosen a different view: the unspoiled beaches of a marine observatory.

In Particular

The Private Mansion Hotels of Paris

The hôtel particulier is a wonderfully French concept. For nobles, these old mansions once represented country living in the heart of the city. For you, they provide access to a particularly rich way of experiencing Paris.

Oceans of Time

Bethlen Estates Tells a Long Tale of Transylvania

You know Transylvania from the story of Dracula. The Bethlen family story goes back even further, and their new hotel shows why this region is much more than a Halloween punchline.