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Welcome LUX Life Magazine looks to honours those who work tirelessly to provide the best guest services, amongst fierce competition, allowing peaceful and tranquil holiday experience with our 2019 Hotel & Spa Awards. From private rentals & unique stays right to health & leisure treatments, LUX Magazine will leave no ‘hot’ stone unturned when it comes to revealing and rewarding industries brightest and best. When people from across the globe need an, escape from their everyday lives to be pampered away from reality they turn to the specialists in the luxury hospitality industry. Whether you provide relaxing spa treatments, run boutique retail venues, offer gourmet cuisine or sporting pursuits, we at LUX Magazine believe your efforts deserve recognition. Winners’ can rest assured that their commendations are a result of the toils and efforts in their fields as nominees are carefully scrutinised within the region of operation to performance over the past 12-months to their commitment and innovation within guest services and facilities, to ensure that only the best-of-the-best walk away with one of our prestigious accolades.
The Packages Congratulations on making it to this stage, as a winner LUX Life are delighted to offer you our basic press announcement items, at no charge. This includes a completely complimentary entry in our official Hotel & Spa Awards directory and a copy of our official press release. As well as offering these items, we also have several commercial packages available, that we believe would be of interest to you. Please review at your leisure.
The Penthouse Package: £3,995 Main front cover image and headline 4 pages of editorial and a 2-page display advert 2 crystal trophies 2 wall plaques 1 personalised digital logo 1 Bespoke Wall Mounted Plaque 1 personalised digital certificate Bespoke 8-page PDF brochure + 50 printed copies 2 pages of editorial space in any future 2019 issue of LUX Life 20 LUX recommended window stickers 12-month clickable web banner 1 article frame
Spring 2019
12 The crux of any exceptional hotel lies in the guest experience – after all, natural beauty only goes so far in securing a 5-star rating. For Siswo, luxury can be defined by an ability to make sure that every whim is satisfied. “We provide a luxurious approach to the guest experience, ensuring that the guest is satisfied in every way during their visit to the Hanging Gardens of Bali. That is our ultimate goal. We take pride in our approach to genuine hospitality, with every member of staff making sure that it is a part of their daily Jan19528 living behaviour. In addition to that, we make 10 sure that regular training is conducted, and the hotel’s leadership are role models for the staff.”
Spring 2019
More than all of that, the Hanging Gardens of Bali offers an experience that few can match. In today’s influencer-driven market, the discerning guest is looking for a hotel that is unusual, different, and away from the well-travelled destinations of the past. As such, places like Indonesia and Thailand are experiencing a resurging interest as people rediscover an interest in travelling further afield, to remote locations, in search of something new. “One of the most prevalent trends in luxury travel is the idea of the ‘experience’ and travelling to unique destinations around the world. The Hanging Gardens of Bali is, by all regards, one of these luxurious destinations in the heart of the jungle. Today’s customers expect a high efficiency in every aspect of their daily lives, and this expectation only increases when they are a hotel’s guests. We aim to always meet expectations in a unique way and in a way that the Hanging Gardens of Bali can.” As Siswo explains, utilising technology remains a unique challenge, as the hotel balances a need for a natural, authentic surrounding with modern amenities. “Being a luxury resort, technology and having a high calibre of internet connection is a key concern and is always being maintained.” Ultimately, words and images can only go so far when it comes to showcasing something that deserves to be personally experienced, revelled in, explored, and enjoyed. Whether it’s the famous swimming pool, the delicious food, or the sounds of wildlife in the jungle below, the Hanging Gardens of Bali is a rare treat indeed. Its status as one of the world’s most luxurious hotels unquestionable, and unchallenged.
In Complete Harmony with Nature: A True Luxury Experience in the Balinese Jungle
It would be fair to say that one of the Hanging Gardens of Bali’s key features is its unique two-tiered swimming pool. Indeed, apart from being named “the world’s best” on multiple occasions, it remains a natural draw for those that wants to experience something far beyond the ordinary. Of course, it would be doing a substantial disservice to this truly wonderful hotel to simply stop there – by all regards, the Hanging Gardens of Bali has more tricks up its sleeve than its welldocumented swimming pools.
Hanging Gardens of Bali is a luxurious destination deep in the heart of thriving Balinese jungle. In January, the hotel was recognised in LUXlife Magazine’s ongoing 2019 Global Luxury Hotel & Spa Awards as the Leading Luxury Jungle Retreat on the island. A frequent appearance on lists of the world’s most beautiful hotels, we were eager to speak to Siswo Susetyo, Hanging Gardens of Bali’s Resort Manager, to find out how they have created a veritable paradise in one of the most picturesque locations on earth.
Set amidst a flourishing jungle canopy, its secluded location exudes a romantic atmosphere, a sort of magic that can only be found in the juxtaposition between refined beauty and the wild, untamed landscape that surrounds it. It is, to put it simply, an oasis, combining traditional Balinese architecture with western luxury and amenities.
Contact: Siswo Susetyo, ResortManager Address: Desa Buahan Payangan, Gianyar, Bali, 80571, Indonesia Website: https://hanginggardensofbali.com Telephone: +62 361 982700
As Siswo explains in more detail, the hotel’s location was specifically selected for maximum visual and emotional impact. “Situated near Payangan, a village north of the town of Ubud, overlooking the Ayung River and ancient Dalem Segara temple, the Hanging Gardens of Bali is a multi-awardwinning resort surrounded by lush rain forests and rice terraces. Each of the hotel’s 44 villas are designed with traditional Alang Alang thatched rooves in complete harmony with nature. The verdant gardens have indigenous flora and fauna, such as cocoa and coffee trees, which blend serenely with bamboo, flame trees and orchids to create a unique tropical paradise. The truly luxurious Spa Collection combines natural, local ingredients and ancient techniques to create beauty therapies and treatments that soothe the mind, rejuvenate the body and energise the soul.”
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The Five S tar Package £2,495 Supporting image and headline on the front cover 3 pages of editorial and a 1-page display advert 2 crystal trophies 1 wall plaque 1 personalised digital logo 1 personalised digital certificate Bespoke 4-page PDF brochure + 25 printed copies 1 page of editorial space in any future 2019 issue of LUX Life 15 LUX recommended window stickers
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Spring 2019
A Holiday Offering The Perfect Balance
New Year 2019
Avani has, since its establishment in 2012, become synonymous with top-tier establishments that are, above all else, interesting – perfecting the balance between undoubtable sophistication and a relaxed sort of hospitality. Perhaps unsurprisingly, six Avani hotels were recognised in LUXlife Magazine’s 2019 Global Luxury Hotel & Spa Awards programme. We took the time out to profile three of them here and find out the secret to their faultless reputation. Situated within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Avani+ Luang Prabang impresses with its cosy take on quality hospitality, balancing contemporary interiors with an open, inviting atmosphere. Avani+ Luang Prabang is a remarkable hotel indeed. It is refined and sophisticated, but relaxed and inviting, evoking a sort of traditional hospitality that invites guests to step over the threshold and experience something new and different – all while catering to their every need. Architect and Interior Designer, Pascal Trahan, has managed to capture lightning in a bottle, transforming a 1914 military bungalow into a cosy community, all neo-colonialist-inspired facades and warm colour palette. On top of this is the expected Laotian aesthetic – a menagerie of open spaces, local timber colonnades, and batik fabrics. Built under the shade of an ancient Banyan tree, the hotel’s 25m pool stretches out across the hotel’s grounds, completing the look. The Head Chef offers gourmet treats for the taste buds, uniting locally sourced produce with a menu that is decidedly global in scope: combining classic and tested flavours with an experimental flair that delights and impresses in equal measure. From artisanal sausages, cured meats, chees and breads, to sustainable, organic fresh fruits and vegetables – even the most discerning of guests are sure to find something to love. Of course, the AvaniSpa deserves particular mention. Offering a welcome respite after a long day of exploring the region’s temples, the spa has handpicked a selection of the most luxurious and exotic treatments that balance bio-active and high-tech components to create heavenly skin care experiences. With its four treatment rooms, the spa also has a dedicated manicure and pedicure area.
Turning Dream Events
into Reality
Cocoon Events is an award-winning agency dedicated to producing luxury destination events and weddings in Marrakech and abroad. Recently, we profiled the firm and spoke to Fabrice Orlando, who kindly provided us with an insider’s look into the world-class celebrations that Cocoon Events produces for their A-List clientele.
Little Innoscents Janet’s Puppy Skool The Academy Training Moontide Guest Lodge
Arabian Excellence and
World-Class Luxury Located just a 30-minute drive from Doha’s City Centre, Sealine Beach, a Murwab Resort, is a world-leading example of hospitality and refined taste. In November, the resort was recognised in LUXlife Magazine’s End of Year Feature as the ‘Best Luxury Accommodation’ in the state of Qatar. We spoke with Mr. Nawaf Ali Al-Obaidly, General Manager at Sealine, to find out more.
The hotel’s enticing surroundings are just as exquisite as the hotel itself. Mere steps away from the Royal Palace Museum, and the Luang Prabang Night Market, Avani+ Luang Prabang
is the ideal central location for any traveller looking to deep-dive into Laos’ incredible culture. It is also a five-minute walk from the Mekong River, which is home to a plethora of stylish and upmarket shopping experiences for those that want to embrace a spot of retail therapy.16 A glorious synergy between Avani+, and Finally, we return to the Asian mainland, its peerless reputation in the industry, and and onto the wonders of Avani+ Hua Hin. Luang Prabang’s extraordinary natural Located on Phetchaburi’s coastline with beauty and culture, this hotel is sure to easy access to the ocean, the resort is just impress with its enchanting approach to two and a half hours away from Bangkok’s hospitality. Experience something magical bustling cityscape. With sprawling tropical and indulge in Avani+ Luang Prabang’s gardens and a selection of private villas, this extraordinary offerings. resort is an essential stop for those exploring Thailand’s faultless beaches. Some six thousand miles away, nestled deep in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Long considered a popular hotspot for Bangkok is Avani Victoria Falls. Where Avani+ residents and the Thai Royal family alike, Luang Prabang celebrates an urban, Hua Hin offers a tranquil respite from the ancient beauty, Victoria Falls stuns with hustle and bustle of the everyday. Sapphire the natural vibrancy of its surroundings. waters, alabaster beaches and flourishing local Here, verdant peaks give way to powerful flora complete an image of paradise, ripe for rivers as they plough through the landscape. luxuriating in. Lush greenery encloses the resort, guaranteeing privacy without sacrificing an This stunning resort seeks to impress in ounce of visual impact. Indeed, the resort is every way, combining best in class hospitality, just a 5-minute walk away from the majestic a simply stunning locality and distinctive Victoria Falls – giving just another reason to contemporary design that evokes clean stay at this extraordinary establishment. modernism, though surprises with bursts of contemporary colour. Each of the resort’s Of course, with its 46-hectare grounds, 196 rooms, suites and villas capitalises on which attract zebras, giraffes and monkeys, Hua Hin’s climate, with a focus on open air guests can experience the true wonders of living, and natural sunlight – inviting in every Africa from the comfort of the resort. Rich, respect. For those that want something a bit traditional décor completes the image, more special, superior and deluxe guest rooms offering resplendent interiors that beautifully feature a private balcony whilst villas and complement the hotel’s natural motif. suites boast a plunge pool, jacuzzi or gazebo. Think dark mahogany and deep terracotta, Bathtubs and separate walk-in showers offer blended together to create a truly welcoming more indulgent moments, while the outdoor atmosphere. Adobe-style architecture is rainforest shower in select suites encourages adorned with bright mosaics, timber frames, guests to stay in touch with nature. and archetypal Zambian flourishes – its authentic without jeopardising Avani’s Though some distance away from Bangkok signature style. Moreover, each of the and its night life, it would be remiss to not resort’s 212 rooms offer breath-taking views mention Hua Hin’s night markets, with food of the pool, intricately landscaped gardens vendors, and shopping stalls vying for attention. or dense African bush. However, guests who want to taste some of the local cuisine need not look any further than the resort’s restaurant, Staa’s, with delectable alternatives for those that prefer the taste of home. Like every Avani resort, each restaurant makes use of outstanding locally-sourced produce to create dishes that are taste experiences – novel and new without losing that all essential authenticity. On top of all of that, a highlight of the resort remains the highly-esteemed Jazz Lounge on New Year’s Eve, bringing the spirit of New Orleans to the Thai mainland.
Like its Zambian counterpart, Avani+ Hua Hin has built an enviable reputation for being a prime wedding venue, boasting an independent 900 square metre Ballroom – the largest event space in the Hua Hin region – perfect for an opulent wedding. Throughout it all, Avani+ Hua Hin maintains a deeply indulgent atmosphere, creating spaces to relax, enjoy and delight in. At the end of the day, this remains a core element of all of Avani’s hotels and resorts – they create spaces that are undoubtedly luxurious, with a guest service that cannot be matched. Yet, they are also deeply personal, with an intense focus on curating a welcoming environment above all else. It’s a goal that many in the industry have lost sight on but finds a true home with Avani. With options all over the world, Avani hotels are sure to become your new home away from home.
Spring 2019
The dining options are equally as impressive, with a central restaurant pavilion and ‘The Theatre of Food’, which showcases buffet surprises from the very start of the day to the very end. Like Avani+ Luang Prabang, the cuisine sits decidedly on the international side, though bold African specials fully satisfy any desire to try the local fare. Nearby, the Moroccan Lounge offers a charming spot to relax with drinks throughout the day, whether its for a nightcap or casual cocktails before dinner. Perhaps, the resort’s biggest success lies in the ease in which it balances so many elements. Leading establishments the world over often struggle to balance a hospitable
image with undeniable class. Yet, Avani Victoria Falls succeeds where others have so often failed. Whether it’s the soft tones of the Marimba bank at the Poolside Grill, or the bush delicacies of the Kingfisher Braai Site, served under the stars by a personal waiter, guests are sure to discover what makes this resort so special. Avani Victoria Falls has earned a welldeserved reputation for being a wedding destination of choice for those who want a romantic setting on their special day. With the stunning Victoria Falls as a backdrop, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect location to exchange vows and share that important first kiss as a newly married couple. LUXLIFE MAGAZINE | 15
Avani Hotels & Resorts is a vibrant upscale brand offering relaxed comfort and contemporary style in city and hotel destinations, Avani was launched in response to an increasingly influential group of discerning travellers who appreciate stylish design and excellent service, but also demand great value. The brand currently has 23 properties in operation in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Seychelles, Mozambique, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Zambia, the United Arab Emirates and Portugal, with a pipeline of further openings in Australia, Asia, Indian Ocean and the Middle East. W: www.avanihotels.com.
Avani+ Luang Prabang Address: 142, Setthathirath Road, Hua Xieng Village, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR 06000 Website: www.avanihotels.com/en/luang-prabang Telephone: +856 71 262333 Avani Victoria Falls Address: Mosi-oa-Tunya Road, Livingstone, Zambia Website: https://www.avanihotels.com/en/victoria-falls Telephone: +260 978 777044 Avani+ Hua Hin Address: 1499 Petchkasem Road, Cha-am, Hua Hin, Phetchaburi 76120 Thailand Website: https://www.avanihotels.com/en/hua-hin Telephone: +66 32 898 989
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Holiday Issue 2019
12
Retreat
Prices start from:
Exclusive
Showcasing the ultimate opulence in Lech (and it’s not just for Winter!)
Chalet Mimi – From €9,800 per night half-board Arula Chalet 1 – From €15,000 per night half-board Arula Chalet 2 – From €8,000 per night half-board Hotel Aurelio – Double rooms from €850 per night, half-board / Suites from €1,500 per night, half-board To book please contact: office@pepper.at For Press and Media enquiries please contact Lydia Cleere lydia.cleere@thelifestyle-agency.com
the most exclusive destination in the Alps. This summer, there is no better place to experience gastronomic excellence and try it for yourself. Arula Chalets - Comprising of twointerconnecting chalets covering an expansive 2,400m2, the Arula Chalets are boasted to be one of the most impressive properties in the Austrian Alps. Available to rent either as two separate properties - each of considerable size complete with their own spas and cinema rooms and even ice rink - or as a combined large house sleeping up to 30 people across 13 ensuite bedrooms, the chalets offer the perfect base for families and large groups. With expansive spas in each chalet awaiting, you can relax aching muscles with a holistic treatment organised by your personal butler before slipping into the pool. Both chalets offer a wine cellar for connoisseurs, cinema rooms, hot tubs and spacious suites. The larger of the Arula Chalets offers the perfect place to host incredible après with a games room complete with DJ space, bar area, separate rooms for red and white wines, gambling tables and retractable doors that lead out on to a spacious terrace featuring a hot tub and stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains. Private chefs deliver delicious culinary creations. From signature fondues and international dishes, to traditional Austrian cuisine and family sharing-style dinners, at the Arula Chalets every meal is a celebration of exceptional food, with quality enjoying the highest priority. Chalet Mimi - Less hipster, more hygge, the five-bedroom Chalet Mimi combines authentic design
The exclusive Austrian resort of Lech has welcomed three incredible 5-star, show-stopping chalets. Set in the most prestigious pocket of the Alps, the trio of slopeside chalets: Arula Chalets and Chalet Mimi offer ski-in ski-out position with unrivalled interiors, expansive spas and an abundance of luxury and world-class amenities. The chalets offer unrivalled service thanks to their partnership with Lech’s finest five-star Hotel Aurelio; everything from in-house massages, outstanding cuisine, bespoke experiences and much more are all supported by the hotel’s concierge.
Whilst spectacular in winter, the resort has a huge amount to offer guests during the warmer months as well. This summer, Hotel Aurelio is welcoming guests to the Arlberg Mountains for an incredible culinary experience with their award-winning chefs. Famed for their exceptional cuisine, chefs Christian Rescher and Markus Niederwanger having been awarded Gault Millau with 3 Hauben (17 Pts), Hotel Aurelio will be hosting guests for a gastronomic stay like no-other. Hotel guests will venture into the mountain valleys to forage for ingredients before returning to the hotel to learn how to create award-winning dishes. Many of the ingredients collected during the Summer months are stored to be used during the Winter months at the hotel and guests will be invited back to experience the fruits of their labour for themselves during the ski season. The chefs at Hotel Aurelio are passionate about using the finest ingredients and where possible ensuring that they are utilising the natural larder on their doorstep. The Arlberg Mountains don't just provide spectacular scenery and the opportunity to mountain bike, hike and climb, they also offer an abundance of herbs, berries,
fungi and more. Guests will learn which pine needles are used to create delicious cocktails and which mushrooms are picked to create the conceptual mushroom infused ice cream, part of the signature Forest & Meadow dessert. The art of mushroom foraging is one that has been handed down through generations for the hotel staff, and guests will learn which ones are delectable for creating sumptuous dishes conjured up during a cooking lesson. The hotel chefs champion local produce from meats and fish to herbs and vegetables, and during their stay guests will join the chefs as they choose their produce and curate the exceptional menus. The award-winning chefs will teach guests how to cook a delicious array of dishes using the ingredients that have been foraged during an afternoon cookery class in the brand new Arula Chalets and Chalet Mimi’s expansive kitchens. Learning techniques and skills from the top chefs, guests will leave Austria having been given a glimpse into the secrets of five-star cuisine. Hotel Aurelio has perfected alpine luxury and the Arula Chalets and Chalet Mimi ensures that Lech is the number one for those seeking
with traditional elegance to create the ultimate cosy chalet. Spread across four floors with floor to ceiling glass, Chalet Mimi offers luxurious comfort in abundance as well as an outstanding location right on the slopes with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Built in traditional Austrian style, guests can enjoy the charmingly rustic and alpine ambience of the property whilst benefiting from world-class amenities. Featuring beautifully designed interiors, the heart of the chalet is undoubtedly the open-plan living, dining and bar area that’s perfect for socialising. The 24/7 butler service will ensure that guests every need is catered for whilst the private chef is on hand to serve exceptional cuisine, from energising breakfasts to indulgent afternoon teas and delicious dinners in front of the open fire. With a host of first-class facilities, including an indoor heated 14 metre swimming pool, bio sauna, steam bath and relaxation area guests can plunge into tranquillity with the ultimate bespoke spa experience. In-house massages and other pampering treatments can also be arranged through the personal concierge service. LUXLIFE MAGAZINE | 13
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Ancient Healing and Modern Living at Spa Burasari Burasari Heritage is a romantic boutique hotel in the idyllic Luang Prabang, a renowned UNESCO Heritage site. Following the Spa Burasari’s deserved recognition as the ‘Most Outstanding Luxury Spa Experience in Laos’ in the 2019 Global Luxury Hotel & Spa Awards, we spoke with the spa’s General Manager, Wannapa Rattanaphong, to find out more about their leading treatments. Very much like the city in which it is based, Spa Burasari embraces the collision between the ancient and the modern, finding success in a hybridisation of the two. Here historic Asian philosophies are held as the defining standard, working alongside up-to-the-minute body remedies to provide exemplary treatments for the mind, body and soul.
remains a key differentiator in this changing landscape. “Currently, more and more spa services become available for the growing audience as meditation and easing the mind has become more popular. However, we believe we stand out because of our years of experience and our quality in service. We don't aim to have the most clients per day, we aim to provide the best service available.”
As Wannapa explains, the spa was heavily influenced by Luang Prabang’s culture and ethos, finding a perfect reflection in which to practice their unique offerings. “Spa Burasari aims to clear the mind and to enliven the body by providing the best treatments available. Our exquisite treatments are created to align the client with the heritage town's slow reflective pace of life. It will make sure the guests' body and spirit can slow down, purify and harmonize. As such, the clients that we work with are mainly leisure visitors that are staying at our property but also guests from outside that have heard of our award-winning Spa Burasari and would love to get a sense of how this is.”
Ultimately, there can be no question that the Spa Burasari holds a distinguished reputation in the industry, impressing with its signature treatment: the Burasari Signature Massage. “The exclusive therapy curates the best techniques from massage traditions around the world to craft an innovative 'fusion massage' treatment. Incorporating fluid Swedish deep-tissue techniques, toning stretches of Thai massage, Balinese Lomi Lomi and Chinese acupressure, the Burasari Signature Massage delivers a deeply relaxing, detoxifying and rejuvenating treatment.”
Despite the spa’s rather traditional leanings, the day to day excellence hinges on a need to develop, improve and adapt continuously to the changing needs of their clientele. “By continuously training and guiding our staff we make sure to provide the best service that we can offer, every day of the year. We believe that we can always grow and learn from the feedback we receive which we will imply into our service.”
In his closing comments, Wannapa offers more insight into the spa’s immediate future, both in Luang Prabang and in other locations. “Spa Burasari as the concept is vastly expanding. In Luang Prabang we stay as we are with our ancient healing techniques but with Spa Burasari in Bangkok and Phuket, and a new to be opened location on Koh Maphrao, Spa Burasari is more available than ever.”
This is becoming more important in a market that is only becoming more competitive in light of a growing wellness industry. As Wannapa discusses in more detail, the ability to provide the best possible service
Address: Luang Prabang, Laos Website: www.burasariheritage.com Telephone: +856 (0)71 255031