Exclusive travel 01

Exclusive Travel Paul Knowles P.knowles@dwpublishing.eu Exclusive magazine has a readership of over one million at luxury hotels, airport lounges and businesses throughout the UK. Every season travel trends change and new hotels open while existing hotels undergo refurbishment. Our award winning writer Paul Knowles reports on the latest places to stay in some of the hottest destinations throughout the world.

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London, United Kingdom T hE D o r c hE sTE r

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here is little doubt that e Dorchester, situated off Park Lane in London is an icon amongst hotels. Located right in the vibrant heart of the city, the hotel boasts a premium location overlooking Hyde Park. It is known for its popularity with a host of VIP and celebrity guests, and over the years this world-famous hotel has played host to world leaders, royalty and the crème de la crème of high society. e rooms and suites are

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EXCLUSIVE TrAV EL Dorchester is something of an institution in London, offering the finest pastries and cakes in the refined setting of e Promenade.

It is little wonder that e Dorchester is so revered. roughout decades, the striking surroundings of the hotel have proven to be a magnet to writers and artists renowned for their talent, amongst them former poet laureate of England, Cecil Day-Lewis (father of the great actor Daniel Day-Lewis) and novelist Somerset Maugham. e hotel still enjoys strong ties to the literary scene, and the prestigious "Foyles Literary Luncheons", are still hosted there today.

In the 1930’s e Dorchester became a haven for creative geniuses, who found inspiration in the classically elegant surroundings. e hotel was the residence of choice for a host of political and military figures during the Second World War, who found comfort in the building’s stoical reputation during this time of adversity. e iconic hotel even played host to Queen Elizabeth II when she celebrated her engagement to the Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh in 1947.

furnished with antique furniture and no expense is spared, offering guests a taste of lavish glamour which is unrivalled elsewhere in the city. e decadent interiors of the hotel create an atmosphere of timeless grandeur and classic luxury. e Dorchester Hotel offers an all-encompassing guest experience, with many facilities on offer to enjoy during the course of your stay. ere is the chance to unwind in the luxurious spa, to dine in one of the gourmet restaurants or to experience the legendary afternoon tea, which has been served at e Promenade since 1931.

Alain Ducasse at e Dorchester is the only UK hotel restaurant to hold an impressive 3 Michelin Stars, giving guests the chance to enjoy unparalleled fine contemporary French cuisine whilst staying at the hotel. ere are also further restaurants to choose from; the iconic China Tang which serves authentic Cantonese food and the modern European cuisine offered at e Grill. Afternoon Tea at e

A plethora of A-list actors, models and rock stars consider e Dorchester to be their hotel of choice when they are in London. Indeed, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton frequently stayed at the hotel throughout their time together. e hotel was purchased by the Sultan of Brunei in 1985 and now belongs to the Dorchester Collection, meaning it is the jewel in the crown of the famous hotel group.

In the 1950s, theatrical designer Oliver Messel redesigned the hotel and the Oliver Messel Suite apartment is named after him, modelled after a Georgian country house style. In the late 1980’s the hotel was renovated by Bob Lush of the Richmond Design Group at a cost of £75 million, ensuring that the hotel has kept its luxurious and timeless glamour throughout.

EXCLUSIVE RECommEndatIonS

• Upgrade to a Park Suite for an even more luxurious stay.

• On Sundays relax with delicious dim sum at China Tang.

• Ask the concierge for the best theatre tickets.

• Sip champagne alongside Spa treatments at ‘e Spatisserie’.

• Guests can order bouquets from in-house designer florist Phil Hammond.

• Ask the doorman about the use of house cars.

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EXCLUS IVE TrAVEL Now owned by Ian Livingstone, the resort is situated in a prime location, meaning that guests are fully immersed in the awe-inspiring Monaco scenery throughout their stay. ere were extensive renovations in both 2005 and 2009, which ensured that the resort has maintained its modernity and unsurpassable standards of luxury.

Of course, Monaco is famed for its annual Grand Prix racing event on Circuit de Monaco, during which the competitors make use of the tunnel under the hotel, considered to be one of the most dangerous parts of the circuit. e adrenaline of the Grand Prix is not for everybody however, and there is plenty of relaxation on offer at the hotel too. Monaco enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine per year, so guests can certainly look forward to soaking up the sunshine whilst sipping a cocktail or two on the terrace.

Monte carlo, Monaco T hE FA i r MonT M o n T E c A rLo rE sor T

is elite resort is somewhere to stay for an unforgettable taste of jet-setting glamour and luxury. It has a peerless reputation and it is easy to see why so many of the rich and famous continue to return to this resort year after year. ere are so many things to enjoy at the resort and the views are simply amazing. An evening stroll along the harbour to enjoy views of the luxury yachts moored there is a definite must during your stay.

For an unrivalled blend of luxury and sophistication, e Fairmont Monte Carlo resort is a wonderful choice for a holiday or short-break. e principality of Monaco is famous for attracting the rich and famous as well as royalty, and guests can enjoy a taste of glamour by staying at this sumptuous resort. e hotel overlooks the glittering Mediterranean ocean and it is one of the largest resorts in Europe, with 602 guest rooms and suites, two restaurants, a bar, 18 meeting rooms and a shopping arcade. is host of impressive facilities means that guests have access to everything they could possibly need and more during their stay.

In the evening, guests can enjoy a trip to the Casino for a touch of James Bond style glamour, before retiring to dine at the recently opened Nobu restaurant, which was launched with a traditional Japanese Sake ceremony for 200 guests including Princess Charlène of Monaco and Robert De Niro. e resort has a luxury Willow Stream Spa, and the roof top pool affords guests breath-taking views of the Riviera. ere is a choice of luxurious accommodation options on offer, including the spacious and elegantly decorated Grand Prix Suites, which feature a separate bedroom and a luxuriously furnished living room equipped with everything guests could possibly need. ese suites have private terraces, offering views of either the Grand Prix Hairpin or the sweeping expanse of the Mediterranean ocean.

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E XCLUS I VE REC om m En datI o nS

• Request a sea view for maximum enjoyment during your stay.

• Helicopter flights from Nice land nearby.

• e recently opened Nobu Restaurant in the Hotel is well worth a visit for stunning cuisine.

• Enjoy healthy Bento Boxes of sushi whilst indulging in spa treatments at e Willow Stream Spa. • Concierges can arrange sightseeing trips with multi-lingual tour guides and air-conditioned transportation.

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ravello, Amalfi coast, italy BELMonD ho T E L c A rU so Set upon a cliff-top in the hillside town of Ravello on the beautiful Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy, the Belmond Hotel is located in what was once an 11th century palace built by a Roman family. e ancient walls give guests a real sense of history, and the frescocovered ceilings and sweeping terraced gardens make this a perfect setting for an unforgettable holiday. e vast infinity pool boasts incredible views of the glittering Amalfi Coast, providing guests with a scenic place to top up their tan.

Over the years a host of celebrities have stayed at the hotel, including such illustrious figures as Greta Garbo, Humphrey Bogart and Jackie Kennedy. e hotel rooms and suites at e Belmond Hotel Caruso have unrivalled sea views and the Exclusive Suites offer the complete decadence of luxurious surroundings, sumptuous furnishings and works of art. e Belvedere Restaurant serves diners gourmet cuisine which is created using a wealth of excellent local and seasonal produce.

Chef Mimmo di Raffaele prides himself on delivering his guests an unsurpassable dining experience, creating cuisine ranging from traditional Italian specialties to more contemporary dishes which demonstrate his flair for innovative cooking. ere is a choice of locations where diners can enjoy the exquisite cuisine, such as the elegant dining rooms, expansive outdoor terraces and the al fresco pool area where they can dine surrounded by the fragrant blooms of ancient rose bushes.

Of course, no gourmet meal is complete without a few after dinner

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cocktails, and the atmospheric Cocktail and Piano Bar has an extensive list of bespoke cocktails mixed to perfection using premium ingredients. Any offmenu requests can easily be accommodated by the skilled bartenders and there is an extensive list of fine wines, champagnes and Prosecco available too.

For those guests who wish to soak up a little culture rather than just spending their time by the pool, the hotel offers complimentary daily boat tours to Positano or Roman Pompeii, allowing guests to experience the beautiful scenery of the surrounding area whilst discovering the fascinating history of Pompeii.

E XCLUSI VE RE Co mm En datI on S

• Enjoy a luxury rose facial at the hotel spa.

• Look out for the stunning 18th century frescoes in the Cocktail and Piano Bar. • Book a private candlelit dinner by the infinity pool for an unforgettable experience.

• Guests can order breakfast in bed delivered to their rooms between 7a.m.-11.30a.m.

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Majorca, spain

T hE s T. r E gi s, MAr DAVAL L e St. Regis Mardavall is situated on the southwest coast of the Balearic Island of Mallorca between the magnificent Tramuntana Mountains and the sweeping marina of Puerto Portals. is luxurious hotel has 128 luxury rooms and signature Suites with breath-taking panoramas of the beautiful hotel gardens and the sea.

e St. Regis Kids Club offers a host of activities for younger guests, including access to their own separate children’s pool areas and there are programmes of fun activities every day, including a variety of games and children’s events. e stunning resort was built in 2002, and in 2008 the hotel became part of the St. Regis brand, known for delivering a high quality guest experience and unsurpassable accommodation. e hotel was extensively renovated with the luxurious interiors designed by Claudio Carbone, widely regarded as one of the best interior designers in the business.

Guests can relax at e Arabella Spa, which offers classic treatments such as facials and massages alongside traditional Chinese medicine. ere are plenty of facilities to enjoy at the five-star resort, including the indoor and outdoor pools, Jacuzzi and saunas.

Fans of gourmet cuisine can enjoy the refined creations of Chef Rafael Sánchez in the renowned fine dining restaurant Es Fum, which holds a prestigious Michelin Star.

Meanwhile, delicious Mediterranean inspired cuisine is served in the Aqua restaurant; meaning there is a choice of dining options to appeal to all guests.

E XCLUS I VE REC om m En datI o nS

• Request a sea view for optimum enjoyment of the resort.

• e nearby Mood Beach Club offers a delicious Sunday lunch with entertainment.

• Visit Puerto Portals for great restaurants, bars and people watching.

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Las Vegas, UsA

T h E A r iA ho TE L Situated in the glamorous city centre complex, which was built at a cost of £6 billion, e Aria Hotel Las Vegas creates a feeling of high-end luxury on the famous Las Vegas Strip. e striking glass and steel exterior of the hotel gives a feeling of minimalism and modernity to the hotel. e exciting bars, restaurants and gaming which lie within create a wonderful guest experience right from the offset of your stay.

by the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the rooms boast an array of cutting edge features such as integrated touchscreen devices. e luxury bathrooms are well proportioned, with glass and marble design features and premium beauty products.

e numerous pools often play host to decadent daytime parties, during which guests can relax in a private cabana and enjoy a selection of food and drinks brought to them by the poolside hosts. e entertainment on offer is unsurpassable, with everything including shows from top recordings artists and Cirque du Soleil productions.

Downstairs, the vibrant casino is one of the biggest in Vegas, with more than a dozen restaurants available for those who wish to indulge in delicious food. ere are also many more restaurants to choose from at the neighbouring Crystals Mall. e nightlife at the hotel is plentiful; in addition to the casino, guests can dance the night away in the Haze nightclub or choose from the resort’s many other bars and lounges which serve hand crafted cocktails and carefully chosen fine wines.

e Aria is regarded as the new Vegas within the old Vegas, and it has brought the Las Vegas Strip into the 21st century by offering a chic and modern hotel providing every luxury guests could require.

After all that partying, guests can choose to have a relaxing treatment in the sumptuous spa, have their hair styled in the salon, or get their energy flowing with a workout in the well equipped gym.

• Sky Suites boast stunning amenities and a private refreshment lounge.

• Join M Life (free of charge) for lots of savings and VIP service during your stay.

• e hotel concierge can book fabulous helicopter sightseeing trips.

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e stunning rooms and suites in the hotel create an impression of prestige which is continued throughout your stay. e jewel in the crown of the hotel is the selection of award-winning Sky Suites which boast up to 7,000 square feet of spacious accommodation with every conceivable luxury on hand.

Sweeping views of Las Vegas are framed

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Bodrum Peninsula, Turkey JUMEriAh goLDEn PALAcE rEsorT

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he Jumeriah Golden Palace Resort brings the premium standards of Dubai to the Aegean Coast. It opened in 2014 as the Golden Savoy and it was recently acquired by the Jumeriah Group. î ’is prestigious resort raises the bar in terms of luxury on the Turkish coast. Flying in to Bodrum airport, you are greeted by a top of the range Mercedes provided to

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EXCLUSIVE TrAV EL whisk you on the twenty minute transfer to the hotel. ere is a great impression of luxury as soon as you see the golden gates of the hotel. Security is paramount as the hotel regularly hosts visiting dignitaries and world leaders. e driveway is lined by manicured topiary trees and upon arrival staff line up waiting to assist you, in a manner reminiscent of Dubai’s premier resorts.

When you walk through the vast doors of the hotel, it is like walking onto a movie set due to the striking surroundings, and the multi-lingual reception concierges await your every request.

After arrival, the excitement continues as you get onto your own gold buggy and drive down the mountain towards the sparkling sea, arriving at your own private villa. e villas range in price from £500 - £30,000 per night and sleep 4 to 30 people. e private villas include your own pool, Jacuzzi and every amenity possible. e sumptuous slippers and robe are of premium quality and the toiletries provided are Hermes. All villas have access to their own dedicated butler and nanny if required, meaning that every conceivable detail has been considered. e resort has been designed so that every view is worthy of a picture postcard and the sweeping panoramas of the surrounding scenery really are spectacular. ere is a private beach made with imported sand and infinity swimming pools affording magnificent views of the manicured grounds of this stunning resort. e private beach huts have fridges, TV, telephone and private butler service. ere is also a vast private yacht for hire and a choice of water sports is available too. e main restaurant offers buffet style food which would not be out of place in a fine dining restaurant, with everything from lobster and caviar to perfect fillet steaks available. For the health conscious, there is a huge salad bar with every accompaniment and if you have a sweet tooth the dessert area is out of this world. Fine wines are served with lunch and dinner, so meal times are a delight for winelovers. ere is also a Chinese restaurant at the hotel and the spa offers a comprehensive array of luxurious treatments.

E XCLUSI VE RE C o mmE n dat I onS

• Visit Bodrum (15 minutes away).

• Ask to have a look around the super yacht.

• e spa offers amazing massage treatments.

• Check out the unspoilt fishing village of Torba (10 minutes away).

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Miami, Florida UsA T hE F on TAi n EB L EAU

Set in twenty acres of grounds, e Fontainebleau is situated on the iconic Collins Avenue in the heart of Miami. e oceanfront resort is one of great historical and architectural significance, which opened in 1954. e hotel has been regarded as a landmark for decades and it has been recently restored by a team of respected architects and designers, who have ensured that the hotel remains as prestigious and luxurious as ever. Fontainebleau Miami Beach reopened in 2008 with an A-list party featuring performances by Usher, Mariah Carey and Robin icke.

Luxurious comfort and comprehensive amenities are offered by the array of rooms and suites and there is a vast swimming pool and terrace where parties are frequently held. e Lapis Spa provides a comprehensive selection of beauty and wellness treatments, and there are four bars at the resort serving bespoke cocktails and fine wine. In terms of nightlife, the hotel also boasts one of the most opulent nightclubs in Miami ‘LIV’ where the DJ’s spin an eclectic mix of tracks.

e Fontainebleau offers a choice of fine dining and casual restaurants, bars and lounges. Scarpetta by Scott Conant serves gourmet cuisine created using excellent ingredients. e Italian inspired menu combines the simplicity of Italy’s regional cuisine with the refined flavours of fine dining. e renowned Hakkasan restaurant is a pioneer of modern Chinese cuisine, serving both classic dishes and contemporary fusion options. Michael Mina 74 is a restaurant created solely for the resort, and the eclectic menu features a wealth of Mediterranean style small plates, perfect for a more relaxed style of dining.

StripSteak by Michael Mina is a traditional steakhouse which places a modern spin on the classic dining concept. e restaurant offers Sunday champagne brunches and even private dining options for a luxurious experience.

E XCLUS I VE REC om m En datI o nS

• Dine at StripSteak for a delicious American steakhouse experience with contemporary flair.

• Sip vintage champagne whilst enjoying a treatment at the Lapis Spa. • Arrange a snorkelling trip to see the wealth of marine life

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Barbados sA n Dy L A nE

Sandy Lane in Barbados is ideal for a luxury Caribbean holiday; it is situated in a prime position overlooking the striking azure blue ocean on a sweeping beach shaded by established trees. is timeless and classic hotel has a host of luxurious rooms and suites, and there is even a stunning private villa which guests can book for a more secluded escape. A choice of gourmet restaurants, a premium spa and excellent sports facilities add to the appeal of this opulent hotel.

Since 1961 when Sandy Lane opened its doors to the first guests, the hotel has remained a luxurious haven of relaxation. A complete reconstruction programme in 2001 ensured that the resort has maintained the level of

luxury that Sandy Lane guests are accustomed to. It has been described is one of the most prestigious places to stay in the Caribbean, offering a luxury escape perfect for a romantic retreat or

a family holiday with a choice of enjoyable facilities to cater to the every need of guests. Popular with a host of celebrities, the hotel offers unrivalled luxury in elegant surroundings, which is why many guests choose to return year after year.

Guests can enjoy unrivalled relaxation at Sandy Lane, soaking up the sun by the pool and enjoying a delicious light lunch in the shade before taking a dip in the crystal clear ocean.

For those guests seeking more active pastimes there are excellent golf, tennis and water sports facilities and the hotel concierge can arrange a wealth of excursions and activities outside the hotel such as sightseeing trips and guided tours of the area.

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• Ask the hotel to arrange a private dinner on the beach for an unforgettable experience.

• Try a sailing trip at sunset for breath-taking views.

• Ask at reception about a chauffeur driven Rolls-Royce which is available to whisk you on luxurious sightseeing trips. summer 2015

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EXCLUS IVE TrAVEL Bathrooms are fitted with a flat-screen TV, a bath and a stunning rain shower meaning that you can choose to relax with a long shower or to soak in the bath with a glass of champagne after a long day.

Gastronomic pleasures are not neglected, and guests can enjoy luxurious fine dining at the Marco Pierre White Grill, relaxing over cocktails before dining on classic European fare and contemporary fusion dishes from the grill menu.

Dubai–UAE

T hE c o n r AD D ow nT own e Conrad Dubai is located in the vibrant heart of the financial and shopping district. Guests can enjoy elegantly furnished accommodation, with panoramic views from the choice of rooms or suites. For those who enjoy fine dining, there are six unique restaurants at the luxury hotel, as well as a choice of entertainment venues and a luxury Spa and Fitness centre. Dubai World Trade Centre is just a two minute walk, meaning that the centrally located hotel is the perfect base to explore the surrounding area.

Meanwhile, during the day the Ballaro restaurant offers an international buffet of delicious foods, with many dishes cooked in front of you by the experienced chefs, and a wide selection of antipasti. In the evening, a full a la carte Italian menu is available, as well as a Mediterranean Brunch every Friday.

For guests who enjoy keeping fit whilst they are on holiday, there is a superb range of fitness facilities at the hotel, including state of the art Technogym equipment, an outdoor yoga area and a stunning outdoor pool area where guests can relax over drinks as they watch the spectacular sunsets.

e Puro Beach Club at the hotel is a unique oasis hideaway with a temperature-controlled pool which is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Guests can lounge on private cocoon beds set against a backdrop of picturesque lawns and trees, with a soundtrack of relaxed tunes played during the daytime and dance music in the evening. e luxurious suites at the hotel feature modern and neutral interiors, offering a separate living room, surround sound system, iPod docking station and a coffee machine.

E XCLUS I VE REC om m En datI o nS

• Relax with cocktails by the pool at sunset.

• Ask your concierge for restaurant recommendations.

• Check out the shopping in the nearby area, there are many exclusive boutiques to choose from.

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Los Angeles, california UsA T h E B E VE rL Ey w i L sh i r E e Beverley Wilshire in the heart of exclusive Beverly Hills, California has been regarded as a landmark and a cultural icon since it opened in 1928. e history and glamour of this hotel is unsurpassable and it was made even more famous when it featured in the film ‘Pretty Woman’. e hotel has 395 air-conditioned guest rooms and luxury suites overlooking the sweeping panoramas of Beverley Hills. e two adjoining hotel buildings are connected by a beautiful porte-cochère, and there are further touches of architectural finesse evident in the cobblestone driveway made with imported Italian stone, and the original Scottish gas lamps. e striking gates were designed referencing those at Buckingham Palace, giving a regal and imposing air to the hotel. e interior design of the hotel is outstanding throughout, with neutral colour schemes, carefully chosen furnishings and contemporary design features which create a luxury aesthetic.

Guests at e Beverley Wilshire can enjoy a host of delicious dining

options, as there are several in-house restaurants which serve delicious food created using outstanding ingredients of the finest quality. ere is steak house Cut, e Blvd restaurant which serves both contemporary and classic American cuisine and the Pool Bar which serves light meals. e two hotel bars, e Blvd Bar and Sidebar, serve a choice of delicious cocktails, fine wines and champagnes sourced direct from the Champagne region of France. e Beverley Wilshire is the perfect luxury hotel to stay in when in Los Angeles, proving the ideal base from which to explore the surrounding area. ere is the chance to unwind in the hotel spa, which offers a range of premium treatments and facilities such as a traditional Hammam, steam rooms and Jacuzzi. e variety of treatments

offered includes those using Natura Bisse products, regarded as one of the most premium skincare brands. ere is also a luxurious outdoor pool area, which is a perfect place to relax and enjoy an afternoon of sunbathing. is hotel really does have it all; it is a tranquil haven of luxury equipped with a range of facilities and the perfect place to escape from the stress of everyday life.

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• Explore the luxury boutiques on Rodeo Drive.

• Visit Sprinkles cupcakes for some of the most delicious cupcakes in the world.

• Ask your hotel concierge to arrange a sightseeing tour. summer 2015

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