Exclusive travel 04

EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL E x c lu s i v E M ag a z i n E T ravEl EdiTor Pau l K n o w l E s h i g h l i ghTs soME MorE E x o T i c lo c aT i o n s T o considEr for T h E lu x u r y h o l i day o f a lifETiME .

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Raffles Praslin S E yC h E LLES

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any of us have dreamed of visiting the stunning archipelago of the Seychelles, set o East Africa in the Indian Ocean. î “e island paradise which spans across 115 islands, is a picture perfect setting of white sand beaches famed for its coral reefs where there is excellent diving to be enjoyed.

Located on the tranquil island of Praslin, which boasts its

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own microclimate, the luxurious Raffles Estate Praslin is a hidden escape where you can truly relax and unwind whilst experiencing a retreat for the senses. Praslin is the second largest island in the Seychelles, full of bays with turquoise waters fringed with palm trees. e famous brand of Raffles hotels and resorts is world renowned and synonymous with an unsurpassable level of guest experience. e location for a truly once in a lifetime getaway, Raffles Praslin is a beachside resort which comprises 86 expansive private villas which come with their own plunge pool and outdoor terrace, affording you sweeping ocean views. Guests can expect glorious sunshine during their stay, indeed the average temperatures are always tropical on the island. ere are so many activities on offer at the resort, such as swimming and kayaking across the crystal clear waters.

Dining options at Raffles Praslin resort are many and varied with a wide selection of options available overseen by Executive Chef Chris Meredith who developed his impressive culinary expertise working at a host of prestigious hotels and Michelin Starred restaurants.

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e elegant and contemporary Losean Restaurant serves a globally inspired breakfast menu and a dinner menu which draws on Seychellois dishes inspired by the local area as well as those with Creole influences. Choose from indoor and outdoor tables with sweeping sea views where you can enjoy an array of the excellent local seafood alongside a wine list which features a choice of classic wines and a dessert menu of patisserie and cakes. Curieuse Restaurant meanwhile serves a selection of sushi and sashimi as well as a pan-Asian inspired fusion menu.

When it comes to relaxation the resort is unsurpassable, and e Raffles Spa is the largest in the Seychelles featuring 13 treatment pavilions, an ocean view tea room, steam whirlpools, experience showers and outdoor lounges with soaking pools as well as a choice of beauty treatments on offer. Yoga and meditation can be enjoyed on the outdoor pavilions giving guests the chance to soak up the stunning views whilst exercising, followed by a relaxing massage.

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ExclusivE TravEl In terms of excursions there is plenty to do in the area and a trip to Mahé Island, home to the capital Victoria and a sightseeing trip to the mountain rainforests of Morne Seychellois National Park and the white sand beaches including Beau Vallon and Anse Takamaka is a must. e Seychelles are home to rare wildlife such as giant Aldabra tortoises and sea turtles, so taking the time to organise an excursion to witness some of these amazing creatures is something not to be missed during the course of your stay. A visit to the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve is another trip which it is worthwhile to include on your holiday itinerary, where you can enjoy relaxing walks surrounded by Coco de Mer trees whilst spotting diverse wildlife and hearing about the area from the knowledgeable guides who are always on hand to tell you fascinating stories. For a truly rejuvenating holiday, Raffles Praslin is an out of this world experience, the island is an idyllic paradise and staying here gives guests the chance to switch off from the stress of everyday life and enjoy an unrivalled sense of escapism.

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߷ Ask the resort concierge about arranging a private chef for an unforgettable dining experience. ߷ Swim in the one of the two infinity pools at night to enjoy the starry skies above.

߷ Sip the Seychelles version of a Singapore Sling, the refreshing Praslin Sling, at the poolside bar ߷ Relax at Takamaka Terrace, the only shisha lounge in the Seychelles, to enjoy evening cocktails.

Raffles Praslin Seychelles Anse Takamaka, Baie Ste Anne, Seychelles www.raffles.com/praslin

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Avalon PA L m S P RIngS

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he desert city of Palm Springs is not necessarily the first choice of many when considering a holiday in California, but the charming area boasts many examples of stunning architecture, which along with the hot springs and the sunny climate make this a destination which is definitely worth visiting.

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For old school glamour and echoes of the charm of a bygone era, the Avalon Palm Springs has plenty to offer and it makes the perfect choice for a relaxing getaway. e hotel is something of a hidden gem with plenty of character and a secluded feeling which makes it ideal for a romantic break. e four star boutique hotel has a stunning interior design aesthetic created by Kelly Wearstler, who designed a style and colour scheme which seeks to combine the best of classic and modern elements; think rooms with neutral tones paired with bright splashes of colour, comfortable armchairs and deluxe beds. e hotel lies nestled between the downtown Palm Springs area and the stunning backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, which means there are some marvellous views to be enjoyed. e Avalon group discovered the property back in 2003 and the accommodation consists of 67 sumptuous rooms and 13 villas with one or two bedrooms, which are equipped with every convenience. It is easy to imagine stars of the silver screen both past and present checking in to this resort to

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enjoy seclusion and tranquillity, and indeed it is always a popular choice of hideaway for those looking for a sense of escapism. e hotel has three pools, a spa and restaurant as well as expansive grounds and it has long been regarded as a desirable place to stay, due to the winning combination of location and facilities. All of the accommodation is bright, spacious and airy with plenty of natural light flooding in. ere are plenty of good restaurants to choose from in the area, and e Chi Chi Restaurant within the hotel serves a menu which fuses Latin style cuisine with modern Californian influences, serving dishes prepared using the best of locally sourced fresh produce. Diners can expect hearty fare such as empanadas, tacos and burgers served alongside all day breakfasts, a varied cocktail menu and a selection of juices created to give you everything from glowing skin to mental clarity.

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Executive Chef Tara Lazar has developed a menu inspired by many of the dishes she encountered during her travels, which she has put her own spin on using the best ingredients to devise innovative dishes which give a nod to the South of the Border. e rooms and suites at e Avalon all come equipped with every amenity you could desire during your stay and the welcoming feeling makes you feel as though the hotel is a home away from home.

Relaxing by the pool is the ideal way to unwind during your stay, with comfortable loungers to recline on beneath the shade of parasols. ere are beautiful views to behold everywhere, with lush palm trees and colourful flowers creating a pretty ambience. Poolside dining is available from Chi Chi too, with the emphasis on a relaxed, grazing style of dining of light dishes which can be enjoyed throughout the day. e sprawling manicured gardens are full of picturesque fragrant flowers which create that classic Palm Springs

ExclusivE TravEl ambience which the area is so renowned for. is is the place to switch off your phone, soak up the sun and forget about your everyday cares. e peacefulness of the environment is complemented by the hotel’s Estrella Spa which offers a choice of treatments and therapies which are designed to relax mind, body and soul. e focus here is on treatments which concentrate on wellness rather than solely beauty, and the spa is a retreat which centres on relaxation, balance and harmony.

For more active pastimes, the surrounding Coachella Valley is renowned for outdoor pursuits and stunning scenery, and there is plenty to choose from when it comes to activities such as hiking on some of the winding trails, horse-riding and cycling which are all available locally.

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߷ Ask the hotel concierge about booking a hot air balloon ride (available locally) which is a unique way to get a superb aerial view of the area.

߷ Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum to soak up a little culture during your stay and enjoy collections of work by a mixture of western and contemporary artists. ߷ Book a walking tour with the Palm Springs Historical Society to take in the celebrity homes and mid-century architecture the area is famous for.

߷ For shopping enthusiasts, the Downtown and the Uptown Design District has a vast selection of stores selling artisan goods, fashion and antiques.

Avalon Palm Springs 415 S Belardo Rd Palm Springs CA 92262 United States www.avalonpalmsprings.com

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Taj Exotica m A L d I V ES

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he 5 star Taj Maldives Exotica Resort and Spa is a dream destination, set in lush landscaped grounds on the private island of Emboodhu Finolhu, which is located just a 15 minute boat ride away from the capital MalĂŠ. î “e Maldives is renowned for its tranquillity and a sense of wilderness abounds as soon as you arrive at the picturesque resort.

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ExclusivE TravEl e luxurious location makes an ideal place for a romantic getaway, a honeymoon or simply for the holiday of a lifetime. is is a truly stunning escape, surrounded by the crystal clear waters of one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives. e horseshoe shaped resort comprises 64 private villas which overlook the azure waters, each of which come with their own plunge pool and a relaxing and contemporary neutral colour scheme. e white sand beaches are the perfect place to relax with a good book and soak up the sun, before enjoying a bite to eat in one of the many dining options available. e 24 Degrees serves food all day with menus which draw their influences from a Pan Asian and European style of dining. Teppanyaki is available with a selection of seafood, meats and vegetable dishes which cater to all tastes. e Deep End is the more upscale and fine dining choice at the resort, where the team of talented chefs create beautifully plated modern European food which fuses the best of Mediterranean flavours. Ingredients are carefully sourced with a preference for local provenance and sustainable produce. e resort’s Jiva Grande Spa is an authentic Indian style spa which offers an expansive range of beauty and wellness treatments designed to rebalance mind, body and soul.

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Aromatherapy massages, yoga, meditation and traditional bathing rituals are sure to leave you feeling completely rejuvenated.

For those who prefer slightly more active pursuits, the resort has an extensive range of water sports on oer such as water skiing, banana boat rides, windsurfing, snorkelling and diving. It is even possible to get up close and personal with some of the sea life during the course of your stay, with shark and stingray feeding available as an excursion.

Another must during your stay is to visit the National Museum located in Sultan Park MalĂŠ which showcases the fascinating history, culture and society of the island with displays of historical artefacts. Check the opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment however, as they vary dependent upon the season!

If you are looking for the type of holiday where you can retreat completely from the world, Taj Exotica is just the place and there is even personal butler service on oer to

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ExclusivE TravEl make every part of your stay stress free. Your butler can arrange everything from breakfast on your villa terrace to tailor made excursions and romantic private dinners. Every element of your stay can be created to your preference and it is easy to see why this magical paradise is an award winning resort. For an unforgettable holiday experience this is an ideal choice, a true haven in every sense of the word. e privacy and seclusion is second to none and the facilities are such that everything you need is available within the resort.

Taj Exotica is often ranked as one of the best resorts in the world, and you simply will not want to leave this oasis of calm.

ExclusivE rEcoMMEndaTions

߷ Ask the concierge about arranging a private dining champagne breakfast for a truly memorable experience.

߷ A private sunset cruise is a must for an unforgettable romantic experience.

߷ Try the local Maldivian cuisine during your stay which centres on excellent seafood, curries and delicious fresh coconut. ߷ Visit e Equator Bar at the resort for music and a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy a superb wine list, cocktails, cigars and shishas.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives P.O. Box 2117 South Malé Atoll Republic of Maldives www.tajhotels.com

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Fairmont miramar S A n TA monICA

Situated just 8 miles from LAX, Santa Monica is the beachfront destination where you can truly wash away your cares and relax. î “e area is famous for its easy going vibes and life centres on the beach where even a simple walk is a pleasure. With sweeping views of the glittering Pacific Ocean, palm trees and blue skies there is no better place to spend a relaxing stay in Santa Monica than the luxurious

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Fairmont Miramar. e ten storey tower hotel was established in 1921 and it boasts a selection of rooms and suites equipped with every amenity you could possibly need including Wi-Fi, flat screens, and coffee makers. Upgraded rooms also feature balconies or patios, affording guests beautiful panoramas. e restaurant and heated outdoor pool make the Fairmont Miramar the perfect holiday destination where everything you need is on hand and the sun shines throughout most of the year if you want to top up your tan whilst relaxing poolside. e Exhale Mind Body Spa offers a range of relaxing therapies such as massages, whirlpool baths, and restorative treatments. e spa menu is designed around the principles of ancient and contemporary therapies combined and the glow body scrub and Hammam detox therapy are the perfect treatments to get your body beach ready during your stay! e most intriguing aspect of this resort is the option of bungalow accommodation, giving you the chance to enjoy your stay in total seclusion and privacy whilst still taking

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advantage of the hotel facilities and central location. e 32 garden bungalows are designed to feel like a home away from home, with a sense of comfort and classic style as well as a private patio. e jewel in the crown of these opulent bungalows is Bungalow One, which was recently renovated

by Robb Report Home & Style. e elegant 2500 sq.ft bungalow has a mid-century yet modern aesthetic, with three bedrooms and the feeling of a relaxing retreat where you can truly unwind. e space is light and airy and the colour scheme is neutral with local vintage artwork adorning the walls, soft lighting and a selection of organic textures which convey the ‘surf modern’ ambience created by Los Angeles based Interior Designer Michael Berman who drew inspiration from the beach and the relaxed local vibe to create an easy breezy seaside feel. Bungalow One manages to be plush yet laid back, stylish yet understated, in short everything you would want from holiday accommodation just a short walk from the beach. No element of comfort is overlooked in Bungalow One, with Scandia Linen and 100% Egyptian cotton bedding as well as Michael Berman

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ExclusivE TravEl custom designed furniture throughout, a La Cava Tub in the wet room and Molton Brown products in the bathrooms.

Samsung Smart TV’s are fitted throughout the bungalow and there is a Keurig Coffee Maker and True Beverage Center to provide refreshments. Venturing out in the local area, the beach is of course the first destination to head for during your holiday, with stunning views, a selection of water sports available and plenty of beachside restaurants for a spot of lunch overlooking the sea. e shopping in the area is renowned for an eclectic mix of art shops, homeware stores, small fashion boutiques and famous brands within the locale. Santa Monica Place is the area to visit for designer labels, with renowned fashion houses situated in the downtown area and of course no trip to Santa Monica is complete without paying a visit to Fred Segal which plays host to a range of emerging labels and designers.

After a long day of shopping, you can retire back to the secluded patio of Bungalow One which overlooks Miramar Gardens and this is the ideal place for a pre-dinner cocktail before heading to the hotel’s FIG Restaurant which has a casual dining style and serves a menu developed around the use of locally sourced organic produce selected from the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market. FIG serves everything from breakfast to dinner and having brunch there is a fun way to start a relaxed day, with a menu including eggs benedict, waffles, sandwiches, salads and burritos. In the evening, the menu centres on sophisticated and contemporary dishes including steamed Manilla clams, Baja seabass and prime rib eye steak with butternut squash and salsa verde. e Fairmont Miramar Bungalows is an impressive resort which has so much to offer and staying in one of the private bungalows is an unforgettable experience. Bungalow One is the ideal choice for a holiday of total relaxation and indulgence, with no attention to detail spared and an attractive beachside design style which makes you feel as though you do not want to leave.

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߷ e traditional Lloyd’s Barbershop within the resort offers male grooming with a complimentary drink of Bourbon, Cognac, or Scotch.

߷ e Vilebrequin store at the Fairmont Miramar sells a selection of swimwear and resort wear, should you have forgotten to pack anything! ߷ Dine at Valentino Santa Monica on Pico Boulevard for delicious Italian food in a stylish setting.

߷ Visit the Santa Monica pier for a traditional seaside experience, including restaurants, shops and amusement park.

Fairmont Miramar 101 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States www.fairmont.com/santa-monica

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