THE WONDERS OF THE US NATIONAL PARKS

Crammed full of highlights, it takes in New Orleans, the laid-back “Big Easy”, Tupelo, Memphis and Nashville.

Explore Montgomery Journey through the countryside of Alabama

Take in the fabled ‘French Quarter’ Tupelo, Mississippi – Elvis’ birthplace Spend two nights at the Guest HouseTM at Graceland, right next to Elvis’ famous mansion

Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager Seven nights’ room-only touring hotel accommodation, plus one night on the aircraft, return flights and transfers

May will see the launch of Shiva Hotels’ newest London property, Middle Eight. It will be in the heart of Covent Garden in easy reach of theatre-land and Seven Dials’ boutique stores.

The hotel’s design incorporates wood and stone with a soft colour palette, from the lofty atrium reception and stunning Sycamore Bar through to its 180 rooms.

Brasserie-style Sycamore Vino Cucina will serve up Italian and Californian dishes throughout the day and into the evening when DJs will hit the decks. The QT Bar will host live acts from comedians, musicians or screenings every evening. Rooms start at £350 a night. middleeight.com

■ Chiming with its 25th anniversary this year, Barcelo Santiago on Tenerife’s west coast reopened last month following a two-year £8.4million refurb of each of its 407 rooms along with its reception, two restaurants and three bars. Located in the resort of Los Gigantes on the west coast, its views over the Atlantic Ocean and of the famous cliffs are as spectacular as ever.

From the buffet restaurant, diners can enjoy unique views of tiny Canary isle La Gomera. And from tapas bar Tasca you can see mighty Mount Teide, Spain’s highest volcano.

Double room on half board from €137 a night. barcelo.com

■ Designed in partnership with Kengo Kuma, the principal architect for the new Tokyo Stadium, Ace’s first Japanese hotel in the old imperial capital, Kyoto, will open on April 16 in time for this summer’s Olympics. Charming landscaped gardens, courtyards and original artwork will reflect Kyoto’s culture and creativity, and all 213 rooms will feature Japanese soaking tubs.

Rooms from £282 a night in peak season. acehotel.com/kyoto