Globetrotter: Bed, breakfast and boutique chic

What's new this month around the world

More posh than dosh

More posh than dosh

West London will have its first self-styled upmarket b&b on 12 March. Guesthouse West promises reasonably priced rooms in one of London's more enviable postcodes for those who would rather spend their money in the local boutiques. The small but perfectly formed rooms will contain all the must-haves for the modern traveller: digital TV, broadband internet access, and trendy organic REN toiletries. You might even be able to chat over the fence with one of W11's starry residents. Evening meals are provided by Alastair Little's delicious deli, Tavola, a few steps away. Guesthouse West, 163-165 Westbourne Grove, London W11 (020-7792 9800; www.guesthousewest.com). Double rooms start from £116 per night.

Eire we go!

If you are planning a trip to Ireland in the near future, pack a copy of The Rough Guide to Family Fun in Ireland. This new 170-page book contains all the necessary information for action-packed holidays for all the family, be it learning about the Vikings in Dublin's National Museum, exploring Neolithic passage graves at Newgrange, Co Meath, or seeking out Fungi the dolphin in Dingle Bay. The guide also lists restaurants, accommodation, activities and attractions for those travelling with their brood in tow. Free from Tourism Ireland on 0800 039 7000 (quote Family Fun in Ireland) and online at www.theislandofmemories.co.uk.

Cunning roos

If you are planning a trip down under, get yourself the new Go Australia Card which entitles holders to discounts on a range of services across Australia, from accommodation, flights, and car hire, to offers in shops, tours and activities, including tickets to Sydney's Taronga Zoo and camel safaris in Alice Springs. It also doubles as an international phone card. Visit the website at www.goaustralia- card.com for an up-to-the-minute list of travel services and further details of events. The card costs adults £29 and £39 for a family (two adults and two children), is valid for one year, and can be purchased online or by calling 0121-442 6429.

Spa quality

Sybarites will delight at the news that the über-chic mini chain of Bliss spas that offers signature treatments such as the Nervewhacker massage and its own range of beauty products has been acquired by the Starwood hotel group. By the end of the year, its stylish W hotel chain will become home to a series of Bliss spas with the first expected to open within the W New York at the end of the year.