Boutique hotel awards by Maninder Singh

W I N N E R 2018

WORLDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL

WINNER 2018

WORLDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Jguu Jqjpuqp EDITOR Jess Johnson is a London-based writer and editor who works mainly on travel, arts, culture and fashion. As well as creating editorial content for Liberty London and Liberty Fabrics, she writes for publications including Hunger, Sister, Polyester and Eyesore. She has an MA in Material & Visual Culture, and once spent a summer doing fieldwork and research about knitting on a remote Scottish island. Jess is happiest when perched somewhere up high, watching the sun set.

LknY Sknxgtvqp CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Lily Silverton is a writer, journalist, and public speaker with over twelve years experience covering arts, fashion, travel, culture, and wellbeing. She has contributed to a number of international publications including Vogue, Hunger, Refinery29, POP, Huffington Post, Women’s Health, and more. She is also a yoga, meditation, and mindfulness teacher who travels and teaches worldwide. She has trekked the Arctic Circle, but her favourite place to be is up a remote mountain somewhere in India.

Jcokg‐Jq Wjgncp ASSISTANT EDITOR Jamie-Jo Whelan is a writer and journalist who has worked for international publications and television stations, including Condé Nast’s Glamour UK, Virgin Media TV, The Irish Sun, East London Lines and more. With the help of the BBC, she used her MA in Television Journalism to direct a documentary on Jihadi Brides, she was also the news editor for Insanity Radio 103.2 FM in Surrey. Besides her flair for journalism, Jamie-Jo loves to relax and spend time in Barbados, or anywhere by the sea.

Bqwvkswg Hqvgn Sgngevkqp 2019-2020 JESS JOHNSON LILY SILVERTON JAMIE-JO WHELAN

Boutique Hotel Awards Publishers 2 Bailey House, Coleridge Gardens, 552 Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road, London, SW10 0RG

Boutique Hotel Awards Publishers 2 Bailey House Coleridge Gardens 552 Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road London SW10 0RG ÂŠ World Boutique Hotel Awards 2019 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the written permission of the publisher. A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library. ISBN: 978-1-78972-631-2 Designed by Rose Anne Cotelo Printed and bound by Molyneux Press Ltd., Kent.

CONTENTS Introducing ...

Foreword by Bianca Revens

AFRICA

AMERICAS & CARIBBEAN

ASIA

SOUTH-EAST ASIA

AUSTRALASIA

120

EUROPE

140

Directory

212

INTRODUCING . . . Finding the best, luxury boutique hotels around the world requires extensive research, knowledge and travel experience and we could not do it without our esteemed travel experts. Our in-the know nominations committee members keep their ears to the ground and their pens to paper casting nominee hotels each year. Our hotel judges visit every nominee, in order to understand the guest experience and write up what makes each one truly unique. Finally, our expert awards panel vote to decide the winners. In total we have over 70 contributing individuals from the nominations committee members, hotel judges and awards panel, all of whom have helped to bring together the select group of hotels you’ll find in this book. Some of the team are profiled here: ANTONIA NEUBAUER President, Myths and Mountains, Inc.

FLO WALES BONNER Journalist, Copywriter, Consultant

Traveler, humanitarian and teacher, Toni is the guiding spirit behind Myths and Mountains, and founder of READ Global, a global nonprofit, honored by the Bill & Melinda Gates foundation and dedicated to inspiring rural prosperity by building rural library community centers and seeding sustaining businesses as catalysts for development. She is recognized by Wendy Perrin and Conde Nast for her expertise in Asia and Southeast Asia.

Flo is an international fashion, travel and lifestyle journalist and consultant for luxury brands. She has contributed words to publications including New York Times, Vogue and Condé Nast Traveller, and was formerly International Producer at Time Out, where she launched sites and magazines in various cities.

PAUL HUMPHREYS Chairman & CEO, dmEARTH Group of Companies

Paul owned and ran an award-winning luxury country house hotel in the 1980’s. He went on to publish hotel guides, including being Managing Director of Johansens Hotel Guides. Paul established dmAFRICA (in 1997) and dmASIA (in 2010), of which he is Chairman & CEO. Having travelled to 131 countries, Paul is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. He divides his time between homes in northern Thailand and southern Spain, and his offices in Africa and Asia.

RENEE DAVIES Trip Specialist

Renee is a Trip Specialist at Knowmad Adventures, a company dedicated to creating unique, private and custom trips in South America. She lived in Mexico for over 3 years and specialises in planning trips to Peru, Ecuador, Chile & Argentina. CHRIS CALDICOTT Freelance Photographer, Writer

After starting a life of travel as Photographer-in-Residence at the Royal Geographic Society, Chris moved on to become a freelance photo-journalist and writer specialising in food and travel. Between freelance commissions he has been the author of several books about global cuisines and the art of travel.

CALLY SQUIRES Editor, Luxury London Lifestyle Magazine

Currently editing Belgravia Magazine, Cally has written for The Times, Financial Times, the Telegraph, the Daily Mail and GQ in addition to regular luxury-travel contributions to Mayfair Times. ALICIA SIEGFRIED Luxury Hospitality Executive

Alicia graduated from Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne, Switzerland, with a diploma in Hotel & Restaurant Management. Alicia spent the first eight years building her career in Monaco, the Maldives, French Polynesia, and the UK, holding various operational positions in luxury resorts and boutique hotels. Back in Spain, she opened and managed the first Design Hotel in Madrid. In July 2015, she moved to London to join the Soho House Group and then to Brussels to launch a Lorenzo Castillo gastronomic project. Nowadays, she does mystery guest audits for upscale hotels and is involved in interior design projects for the hospitality industry in Mallorca.

FOREWORD “To Travel is to Live” – Hans Christian Andersen

outique Hotel Awards was founded on our belief that unique destinations – and people – provide the very foundations of incredible, memorable travel. It is our mission to seek out the hidden treasures, to find the very best, independent, boutique hotels around the globe that create timeless memories for their guests. Boutique Hotel Awards is the only one of its kind that takes the time, effort, and the pure wanderlust joy, to visit each and every hotel we recommend. We feel the full travel experience - in the rooms, the grounds, the lobbies, the treehouses, forts, desert tents, and castles - wherever they may be. We see the attention to detail in every stitch of fabric and every morsel of food. It is these exceptional, one-of-a-kind hotels that are today responsible for offering true luxury, and the unique, individual experiences we all so greatly long for. The Boutique Hotel Selection 2019-2020 is our personal collection of the most extraordinary boutique destinations on earth. Created by a dedicated team of luxury travel specialists and industry insiders who travelled the world to individually report what each property has to offer; it holds the most wondrous destinations around the globe. When reading this book, it is our goal that you find yourselves immersed in an exciting world of possibilities you did not know existed. We want you to feel spoilt for choice over the extravagance and sheer luxury that can be found in the most remote of places. You will find that each hotel has its own special story, and we feel incredibly lucky to be able to share them with you. Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer – what are you waiting for?

Bianca Revens Managing Director, Boutique Hotel Awards

AFRICA

RIAD KHEIRREDINE Marrakesh, Morocco

A luxuriously tranquil Riad nestled within the bustling streets of Marrakeshâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Old Medina

14 SUITES POOL STUNNING VIEWS 24 HOUR SERVICES BUTLER SERVICE AIRPORT SHUTTLE BAR RESTAURANT SPA

RIAD KHEIRREDINE, 2 DERB CHELLIGUI, SIDI BEN SLIMANE, MARRAKESH 4000, MOROCCO +21 2 52 438 6364 | BOOK@RIADKHEIRREDINE.COM | WWW.RIADKHEIRREDINE.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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hen it comes to sensation and style, there is nowhere quite like Marrakesh. Its visual appeal is vouched for by the great master of form Yves Saint Laurent himself, who once explained that: “A visit to Marrakech was a great shock to me. This city taught me colour.” The dynamic fragrance of the souks is unmatchable, an ever-changing melange of spices, rose petals, tanned leather and shisha smoke, while the local cuisine runs the gamut from simple street shawarma to fantastical local delicacies such as sweetly spiced b’stilla pigeon pie. A true feast for the senses, Marrakesh offers a wild kaleidoscope of experiences to delight even the most seasoned of travellers. Within this maze of beautiful chaos lies Riad Kheirredine – a luxurious oasis of calm with rooftop views over the

city and towards the Atlas Mountains. Spacious and serene, it features 14 suites decorated in opulent local style, complete with thick rugs, elegant furniture, and well-draped four-poster beds. One of the most centrally-located riads in Old Medina, Kheirredine was founded by Marina Guarena and Giuliano Brugnatelli – combining the best of Moroccan and Italian hospitality with furniture and materials sourced from both countries dotted throughout the property. The riad offers a classic combination of inner and outer spaces, with a plunge pool and sunbathing area alongside a central garden patio. A perch in the rooftop pergola is the perfect spot to relax with a bottle of good Moroccan wine and enjoy one of Marrakesh’s famous sunsets – with the surrounding sounds of running water and scents of sweet flowers bound BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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to leave you floating on cloud nine. The staff are helpful and well-informed, with an almost encyclopedic knowledge of the streets outside to help you maximise your time in Marrakesh. With its lushly romantic interiors, impressive city views and a generous menu of Arab-Italian delicacies to sample, it’s tempting to stay cocooned within Riad Kheirredine. But outside lies a world of experiences – from the ridiculously photogenic botanical landscape of YSL’s Majorelle Garden, to the enthralling sounds of the Adhan (Islamic call to prayer). Step out into the street to experience the unique offering of the souks – or venture further afield with an excursion to the Atlas Mountains, Sahara Desert or Ourika Valley, all organised happily and seamlessly by the Riad.

ROYAL MANSOUR Marrakesh, Morocco

Set within the walls of the old city, this outstanding hotel is a masterpiece of style, character and craftsmanship

53 RIADS/SUITES 4 RESTAURANTS 24-HOUR BUTLER SERVICE ART GALLERY BAR FITNESS CENTRE INDOOR/OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOLS LIBRARY MICHELIN-STARRED CHEF SPA

ROYAL MANSOUR, RUE ABOU ABBAS EL SEBTI, MARRAKESH, 40000, MOROCCO +21 2 52 980 8080 | INFO@ROYALMANSOUR.MA | WWW.ROYALMANSOUR.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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aving enjoyed a period of consistent growth, helped in part by a rapid increase in the number of riads available for rent, Marrakesh’s tourism economy has over the last few years remained relatively buoyant. Replicating a traditional medina, complete with gardens, courtyards, mosaics, fountains and winding paths, the Royal Mansour is arguably one of the city’s greatest assets. With a courtyard-fountain, reception room and up to four bedrooms apiece, their three-storey traditional Moroccan dwellings have proved exceptionally popular with families, newlyweds and groups alike. Well-known for their panoramic roof terraces and rich furnishings, these riads are among the city’s most compelling draws.

Lavishly equipped with cedarwood doors, plunge pools, sunbeds, mosaic floors and exquisite antiques, these terracottacoloured mini-palaces are served by genial hotel staff via a network of ingenious underground tunnels. If it all sounds very James Bond, that’s because it is. The hotel’s quartet of restaurants – one of which is widely believed to be the best of its kind in Africa – are overseen by Three-Michelin-Starred chef Yannick Alléno. Their new restaurant, Le Jardin, has an influence that dates back to the 14th century, using slow-cooking techniques coupled with raw delights. The lavish menu will excite taste buds, with a concoction of shellfish, sushi and slowcooked garden vegetables. Meanwhile, the traditional hammam, the swimming pool BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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and the hotel’s extensive gardens have all been designed to cosset and restore guests after their exploratory efforts around the city. And with a new extension comprising a 1.5-hectare garden, a 600 square metre pool adorned with pavilions and a fourth restaurant supervised by Yannick himself, the Royal Mansour represents the ultimate Moroccan escape. Originally commissioned and owned by the King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, the palace plays host to an international clientele eager to experience the Moroccan lifestyle. When the rooftop views, sprawling gardens and nearby Atlas Mountains are taken into consideration, it quickly becomes easy to see why: it truly is a sparkling gem in the Red City.

w e n a r e v o c s Di t i r i p s d e r d n i k

Luxury English gin made in Surrey with 24 botanicals and water drawn from The Silent Pool. Full bodied yet fresh with delicate florals, fresh citrus and velvety local honey. Smooth, refined, refreshingly individual.

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KASBAH TABELKOUKT Mirleft, Morocco

A neoclassical, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;30s-inspired kasbah on the Moroccan coast, brimming with unique character

7 ROOMS STONE HOUSES INFINITY POOL STRIKING VIEWS BEACH HAMMAM LOUNGE RESTAURANT COOKING COURSES LIBRARY

KASBAH TABELKOUKT, ROUTE DE SIDI IFNI, MIRLEFT 85350, MOROCCO +212 5287-19395 | NICOLEARBOUSSET@YAHOO.FR | WWW.KASBAH-TABELKOUKT.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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asbah Tabelkoukt is just a few minutes’ drive outside the village of Mirleft on the south eastern coast of Morocco – a spot that has historically been popular with musicians and artists, surfers and explorers, and also marking a stopping-off point for those who have just completed a journey over the Sahara. The local scenery is ruggedly beautiful, with undulating hillsides giving way to sandy coves where the land meets the sea. Kasbah Tabelkoukt is the brainchild of Nicole Arbousset, who captures the free-spirited charm of the region via the hotel’s elegant, vintage-infused interiors. Designed in a neoclassical style, the new architecture pays homage to the history and culture of the region with its powerful, fortress-like form. The décor within draws upon the glamour of the 1930s, curating Orientalist art elements with green-blue bejmat tiles, carved doors, and a fourpillar central fireplace.

Each of Kasbah Tabelkoukt’s rooms is decorated in a different style, further underlining the love and care that has been taken over the interiors, and showcasing the distinctive character that shines throughout this property – there is an African room, an Art Deco room, and a Fez room, among others. Guests are invited to make themselves at home here, with communal areas such as a library filled with books from all around the world. An open-air terrace next to the infinity pool offers the ideal spot to watch the sun go down over the North Atlantic Ocean. The Kasbah sits on top of a towering cliff, overlooking a deserted beach below. Known locally as la plage sauvage, or the wild beach, it is accessible via a private stairway directly from the Kasbah. An ocean-facing on-site hammam is another highlight of Kasbah Tabelkoukt – here, guests can book in rejuvenating BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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treatments such as an argan oil massage or a black soap crepe scrub. Lunch and dinner can be arranged to be served in the dining area, crafted using local produce and classic Moroccan flavours. Packed lunches are available for day trips too. This romantic setting is ideal for couples or honeymooners, but also suitable for families, with a diverse array of activities available to keep guests entertained. The hotel’s staff can arrange anything from on-site cookery courses and massages to adventurous options like trekking, horse-riding, paragliding, surfing and scuba diving. Despite its deceptively remote-feeling setting, Kasbah Tabelkoukt is remarkably wellconnected for exploring – the Spanish Art Deco architecture of Sidi Ifni is half an hour’s drive away, while the famous palm groves and silver jewellery of Tiznit can be reached in 50 minutes.

AKADEMIE STREET Franschhoek, South Africa

A perfectionist’s paradise in the heart of South Africa’s beautiful wine country

9 SUITES HEATED POOLS STUNNING VIEWS CAR PARKING NO CHILDREN

AKADEMIE STREET, 5 AKADEMIE ST, FRANSCHHOEK, 7690, SOUTH AFRICA +27 0 82 517 0405 | INFO@AKA.CO.ZA | WWW.AKA.CO.ZA BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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haracterised by its lush hillsides and richly fertile vineyards, Franschhoek is the quintessential South African wine country, albeit with a Francophile influence worn proudly on its sleeve. The region’s history includes being settled by French Huguenots 300 years ago (which explains why the locals still celebrate Bastille Day every July). This magnificent valley is home to some of the country’s finest gastronomy, alongside wineries, farms, art galleries – and Akademie Street, a chic hotel located right in the centre of town. With nine themed suites, set amongst six private buildings and a central arbour of scented jasmine, Akademie Street is an alluring option for any weary traveller. Previously voted Best Small Hotel in the World, it is a well-regarded figure within the global boutique hotel landscape. Brimming with unique character, it is

designed in a Cape Dutch manor house style, with a layout that includes a Boer War cottage and a sun-dappled Orangerie. Elegance and panache reign – every day brings a breakfast immaculately crafted with ingredients from local food artisans, while evenings include a cocktail-hour piano recital. The grounds are dotted with 4 heated swimming pools, 7 wood-burning hot tubs and a heated jacuzzi, allowing guests to make the most of the sunshine and picture-perfect local scenery from the comfort of their own private cottages and suites. The hotel even features its very own boulodrome, along with vintage bicycles to ride – another subtly Gallic twist to make you feel like the protagonist in a ‘60s La Nouvelle Vague film. Whether you choose a quick round of pétanque (French boules) or opt for a vintage board game by the huge open fire in the hotel’s award BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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winning Orangerie, you’re never short of old-school amusements here. Interiors are meticulously curated, complete with original period furniture alongside collectibles and curios created by world-class designers. This detailoriented ethos is continued through every aspect of the hotel, from its handmade linen bedding and organic toiletries to its artisanal chocolates, local wines and beanto-cup coffee. The staff are enthusiastic and helpful, with a knack for inveigling hard-to-get restaurant bookings for guests at the top spots in town. Other thoughtful details include a complementary laundry service, as well as sun cream and protective hats provided at the poolside – and an extensive morning menu that covers every appetite from homemade granola and Western Cape eucalyptus honey to indulgent full cooked breakfasts. You’ll never want to leave.

KAPAMA KARULA Hoedspruit, South Africa

Wellness and gastronomy collide with cool, contemporary interiors at this luxury lodge within a private South African game reserve

12 VILLAS RESTAURANT SPA 24-HOUR GYM HEATED SWIMMING POOL STUNNING VIEWS YOGA CLASSES FAMILY VILLAS WEDDINGS PRIVATE PLANE LANDING

KAPAMA KARULA, KAPAMA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, R40, HOEDSPRUIT, 1380, SOUTH AFRICA +27 74 127 7814 | RES@KAPAMA.COM | WWW.KAPAMA.COM/KAPAMA-KARULA BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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arula is the jewel of the Kapama private game reserve – overlooking the Klaserie River, this beautiful lodge is home to 12 beautiful villas, including two family-sized options. Owned and run by multiple generations of the Roode family, the Kapama reserve also contains three other lodges – River Lodge, Southern Camp and Buffalo Camp. The land was originally purchased to graze cattle, before Johann Roode realised what incredible safari potential this magnificent setting held. Kapama sits within the greater region of the Kruger National Park, a truly worldclass wildlife-watching destination where visitors can hope to spot the Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants and buffalos – along with hundreds of other awe-inspiring mammals and birds. The lodge organises daily morning and evening game drives, ensuring it is as easy as possible to get out into the majesty of the surrounding scenery.

Karula, meaning ‘place of peace’ is decorated in a chic and sleek contemporary African style – an oasis of serenity and elegance. What really sets this lodge apart from other five-star options is its incredible wellness offering – a generously-sized and well-equipped 24-hour gym is a serious contender for where to spend those hours between game drives. It even features floor to ceiling glass windows, offering an unparalleled views across the bush, meaning you might spot a family of impalas meandering past as you work off dinner from the night before. The Karula spa and wellness centre is a real treat, with a comprehensive list of treatments to pamper and soothe after a day spent out in the bush. A huge (and, crucially, heated) outdoor pool complete with spa jets greets you at reception – you’ll want to recline poolside here on a lounger, smoothie in hand, after a treatment, soaking up the sounds of the bush. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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Multiple rooms and therapists ensure that groups can book in for an afternoon of indulgence together. The helpful staff can curate wellness experiences according to guests’ needs. Consider starting your day with a private yoga class at sunrise on the library deck, complete with birdsong and soft candlelight. The spa’s elegant contemporary design of glass and stone echoes in the lodge’s twelve open-plan villas, all of which feature freestanding tubs and private pools. Two family villas even have entertainment such as loaded Nintendo Wii consoles for little ones, while a fullystocked complimentary mini bar and wine rack will keep adults busy too. It’s not all about wellness – gastronomy is another key reason to visit Karula. Opt for a surprise breakfast picnic in the bush with a private chef cooking eggs just how you like them, or enjoy an evening tasting menu by the glowing fireplace complete with perfectly paired South African wines.

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PONDORO GAME LODGE Limpopo, South Africa

An unforgettable, award-winning luxury game lodge situated on the banks of the picturesque Olifants River

8 SUITES

AIR CONDITIONING BAR GYM POOL RESTAURANT SPA WINE CELLAR

PONDORO GAME LODGE, BALULE NATURE RESERVE, GREATER KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, HOEDSPRUIT, 1380, SOUTH AFRICA +27 317 645 049 | RESERVATIONS@PONDORO.CO.ZA | WWW.PONDORO.CO.ZA BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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ocated within the 50,000-hectare Balule Private Nature Reserve, which itself forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park, Pondoro represents the best of both worlds. For visitors seeking a less touristy safari experience but with the highest possible chance of seeing the ‘Big Five’ in action, smaller private game reserves such as this are often the way to go. Established in 1997 by Robbie and Lize Prehn, Pondoro has grown into one of the country’s most respected five-star lodges. With five luxury suites and three chalets it is sufficiently engaging for guests who like to mingle, yet quiet and refined enough to provide privacy and exclusivity for those who would rather not. Equipped with private patio, lounge area and outdoor jacuzzi, each suite is air-conditioned and furnished in a typical African style. Nearby, the equally well-cooled ensuite chalets benefit from freestanding baths, wooden decking and attendant views – occasionally of passing wildlife – over the Olifants River. Naturally, like the best boutique establishments, Pondoro enjoys mixing it up a bit when the mood takes them, hence the construction some years ago of a large treehouse secreted deep in the bush. Designed for visitors who prefer a more rustic approach to their accommodation, this unique structure overlooks a spotlit watering hole in a prime position within the park. Safely dropped off after dinner and effectively left to one’s own devices within the treehouse itself, guests may either stay up or snuggle up until collection during the game drive the following morning. And what a drive it is likely to be. The park’s unique position within the Greater Kruger area affords everyone the opportunity to witness animals in their natural habitat, without themselves

BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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MEET THE VISIONARIES

being herded around by the larger tour operators. As well as the must-see lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino, and African elephant, the reserve offers a healthy chance of glimpsing cheetahs and even the ultra-rare black rhino. With owner Robbie as ranger, aided by a local tracker, following up a potential sighting can prove as frenetic and exciting as the eventual result. Excursions into the bush are further helped by thoughtful Pondoro touches such as the provision of heated beanbags on truck seats during chilly mornings. There are also nature walks on offer during the day to supplement the dawn-and-dusk activities. Afterwards, when exhaustion from an early start and full day’s excitement have taken their toll, the lodge’s Serenity Spa will coax even the weariest bodies back into balance. Featuring a glass-covered steam room, outdoor spa bath and full massage facilities, the spa also offers

an extensive range of traditional South African treatments and remedies. The dining experience at Pondoro is as engaging and romantic as the game drives and accommodation. A fusion of traditional African and modern European cuisine, the menus feature local specialities including buffalo, ostrich and springbok steaks, accompanied by an extensive cellar and whisky collection. As a two-time recipient of the Diners Club Platinum Award for their wine list, the Lodge is well-known for serving some of the finest food and drink in the area. When the opportunity next presents itself to experience a ‘Big Five’ safari in the Kruger National Park, make sure it includes a few nights at Pondoro Game Lodge. Its warm welcome, luxury accommodation and relaxing atmosphere all contribute to a truly authentic gameviewing experience under African skies. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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ROBBIE AND LIZE PREHN Arriving at Balule Nature Reserve in 1997 armed with nothing more than a dream and a truckload of faith, Robbie channelled his love of wildlife into designing and building the lodge. His insistence from the outset on prioritizing the welfare of the animals soon began to pay off, as the reserve became renowned for great game viewing. Later, when his future wife joined him, she brought with her a natural flair for cuisine and used her artistic background to influence the detail and décor within the lodge. Two decades on, the staff at Pondoro represent the heart of this exceptional retreat, and every member of the team is considered part of the same big family.

GRAND DÉDALE COUNTRY HOUSE Western Cape, South Africa

An exclusive-use manor house perfect for outdoor pursuits, vinous indulgence, and poolside recuperation in the captivating Cape Winelands

6 ROOMS AND COTTAGE SALTWATER POOL AL FRESCO DINING GOURMET BARBEQUE FACILITIES HONESTY BAR MULTI-LINGUAL SENIOR STAFF RESTAURANT SPA ROOM AND TREATMENTS

GRAND DÉDALE COUNTRY HOUSE, RUSTENBERG ROAD, THE BOVLEI, WELLINGTON, 7654, SOUTH AFRICA +27 218 734 089 | INFO@GRANDDEDALE.COM | WWW.GRANDDEDALE.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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he striking scenery and boundless opportunities for adventure make South Africa one of the most popular travel destinations on the continent, and the Western Cape plays a notable role in its country’s overall allure. With a compelling combination of temperate climate, arresting vistas, friendly people and liberated lifestyle, this southern province is, for many, the most irresistible location in the world. Largely responsible for much of this popularity and goodwill, the vineyards and wine routes of Paarl, Franschhoek, and Stellenbosch draw the discerning traveller like a powerful magnet, and when Grand Dédale opened as a luxury hotel in 2009 it was in direct response to this demand. Offering a captivating, untamed setting, the recently restored colonial manor house lies at the end of a long valley below the historic Bainskloof Pass. Dating back to the early 1700s and surrounded by hundreds of hectares of impossibly pretty countryside, the estate has gained a justifiable reputation as a world-class winery. Once the private residence of the

former owner of the nearby Doolhof wine estate, the house comprises a total of six bespoke bedrooms and suites. Ranging in size from 32 to 63 square metres, each enjoys views of the gardens or mountains, while the adjacent restored thatched cottage adds over 100 square metres of additional space and privacy. The former wine store is now a delightful cottage for additional guests. This may be booked as a chapel for wedding ceremonies, or as a function venue. Facing eternally distracting views of the Groenberg, Limietberge, and Hawekwa mountains, guests are presented with a stark choice: laze around beside the 15-metre swimming pool all day, perhaps enjoying a visit from the local professional spa therapist; or venture out to participate in several of the innumerable activities in the surrounding area. This being South Africa, the potential for constant diversions and entertainment is all but limitless, and working out how to fit everything in to the holiday schedule is a challenge in itself. Walking, quad-biking and cycling may be a given, but so is riding, river-rafting, golf, and clay-pigeon shooting. Then there’s the BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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trout fishing, hot-air ballooning, picnic hikes, and of course the world-class winetasting trips. And when the active part of the day is complete, the full selection of Doolhof’s award-winning labels are available for sampling in the estate’s tasting room. Private tours of the cellar may also be organized and are a fitting prelude to the four-course table d’hôte evening meal. Devised and prepared daily by the estate’s resident chef, the menu features a showcase of the highest quality South African ingredients utilizing the freshest meat, game, fish and vegetables from the local area. Served either in the hotel’s private dining-rooms or al fresco on the grand veranda overlooking the mountains, it highlights Grand Dédale’s status as a shrine to good food and wine. And that, essentially, sums up the philosophy of this extraordinary retreat; to combine exceptional hospitality with first-class fare and a companion or group of friends is one thing, but when these are blended with glorious landscapes, vivid sunsets and luxurious accommodation, it becomes an altogether more irresistible proposition.

AMERICAS & CARIBBEAN

Tradition since 1774. birkenstock.com

ROSEDON HOTEL Hamilton, Bermuda A genteel and historic mansion hotel in Bermudaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital

44 ROOMS TROPICAL GARDENS OUTDOOR POOL BEACH SHUTTLE COMPLIMENTARY BICYCLE HIRE SWIMMING POOL BAR FITNESS CENTRE RESTAURANT

ROSEDON HOTEL, 61 PITTS BAY ROAD, PEMBROKE HM 08, BERMUDA +1 441-295-1640 | RESERVATIONS@ROSEDON.COM | WWW.ROSEDON.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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n the immortal words of Mark Twain: “You can go to heaven if you want to; I’d rather stay in Bermuda.” This shimmering spot, perched in the blue waters of the Sargasso Sea, has a truly paradisiacal feel. Colourful coral reefs, pastel-hued mansions, lush greenery and the scent of frangipani and bougainvillea drifting on the sea breeze offer all the trappings of a true island escape. Located in the centre of the island, the Rosedon Hotel might be the quintessential Bermuda location. A spacious townhouse close to the capital of Hamilton, it is a confection of gleaming white and blue colonial architecture, its effortless elegance tempered by a dynamic and adventurous approach to hosting. Home to a sparkling outdoor pool with a lively bar, and framed by lush tropical gardens run with award-winning ecoinitiatives, it is hard to remember any care you may have in the world upon stepping foot here. Sparklingly modern in attitude, the hotel wears its impressive history with elegance and grace – construction on

the hotel started back in 1904, with building work completed two years later. Designed as the personal home of Mr E. J. Thompson, it was named after his son, Robert Rosedon Thompson – this sense of warmness and appreciation for a personal touch remains at the very heart of the hotel’s ethos. Rosedon’s on-site Huckleberry restaurant has a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, with a seasonally-inspired menu that is wholly deserving of its Michelin star. Guests are invited to indulge in the classic British tradition of afternoon high tea, with a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, hand-made desserts and freshly baked cakes – all served with Bermuda honey and home-made jam. The front porch is the ideal spot to “loaf” while people-watching – Mr. Twain would surely approve. Beau’s Bar, located in the main house, was dedicated to Beau Robinson who retired after 50 years of service at Rosedon. Beau often said, “You name it, I can do it for you!” – considered the heart of the house due to his unique sense of humour and can-do attitude, his BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

bar offers curated cocktails as unique as the man himself. Rosedon captures the spirit of the modern wellness movement with activated crystals dotted throughout, including large crystals in each room intended to provide a sense of positivity and healing. Guests can also find three large Bermuda limestone rocks containing natural crystals in the front garden – fostering a wellnessfocused environment both inside and out. Anyone itching to get out and explore the local scenery will also find themselves in luck at the Rosedon. The hotel has a fleet of complimentary-to-borrow bicycles on hand, along with a host of electric Twizzy cars for hire – meaning that adventure is never too far off the agenda. A beach shuttle whizzes you down to the pink sands of Elbow beach in no time, while the pretty cobbled streets of Hamilton can be reached within the five minutes it takes to stroll there. The staff are happy to help arrange seafaring trips too – from sailing and whale-watching to chartered cocktail cruises, they will be happy to help you plot almost any escapade you have in mind.

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ABRACADABRA POUSADA Búzios, Brazil Stunning seaside views and incredible food in Búzios – one of Brazil’s best-kept secrets

16 ROOMS BAR RESTAURANT POOL ROOFTOP BEAUTIFUL VIEWS BEACH CAR PARKING AIRPORT TRANSFER BUTLER SERVICE 24-HOUR ROOM SERVICE WEDDINGS

ABRACADABRA POUSADA, R. MORRO DO HUMAITÁ, 13 - LOT. TRIANGULO DE BUZIOS, BÚZIOS - RJ, 28950-000, BRAZIL +55 22 2623-1217 | RESERVAS@ABRACADABRAPOUSADA.COM.BR | WWW.ABRACADABRAPOUSADA.COM.BR BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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eautiful Búzios is inextricably linked with the French movie star Brigitte Bardot, who hid here in the mid-‘60s with her Brazilian boyfriend to escape the attentions of a clamouring media and public. Stars such as Mick Jagger and Madonna later followed suit, but none captured the heart of the town like Bardot did – visitors will find a beach that bears her name, and a cinema, along with a famous statue by artist Christina Motta. Even today, the sense of Búzios as a refuge from the world remains. With its blend of sophistication and rustic charm, this is a place that feels like a home away from home that’s tailor-made for pure escapism. Abracadabra Pousada encapsulates everything wonderful about Búzios – glamorous yet welcoming, it synthesises with the natural beauty of the surrounding scenery thanks to its flourishing setting of

tropical plants, orchids and palm trees, which in turn draw in beautiful wild birds and animals. Set up by founder José Luiz Vazquez shortly after his arrival in Búzios back in 1978, Abracadabra Pousada has grown through the years from a humble guesthouse into a luxury boutique hotel, retaining its homely charms through the welcoming and friendly attitude of the staff. Each of the hotel’s 16 rooms comes with either a sea or garden view, and is decorated with magnificent artworks – look out for incredible pieces by Christina Motta (of Bardot sculpture fame). Abracadabra Pousada’s open-air terrace and infinity pool offer views that truly need to be seen to be believed, making the most of the breath-taking bay beyond. The terrace is perfectly placed to enjoy the sun setting over the ocean – there is no finer spot to sit and marvel at the bounteous natural scenery BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

of Búzios, with a perfect framing of lush green foliage and twittering songbirds. A Caipirinha, Brazil’s national drink of cane spirit, sugar and lime, makes the perfect complement to this vista. Abracadabra Pousada has many charms, but it is the hotel’s restaurant and sunset lounge, Mistico, that is a real cut above the rest. Ranked the numberone best restaurant in the area, it is run by Head Chef Bruno Barros, who trained in London with Gordon Ramsey and other famous Michelin-starred chefs. The food is of exceptional quality and is inspired by classic Brazilian dishes, created with local produce and freshly caught fish from the Búzios coastline. Every seasonally-led daily dish is a work of art, and homemade bread is baked daily. Catering for all tastes and dietary requirements, each course is the perfect blend of mouth-watering flavour combinations and unique textures.

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CLAYOQUOT WILDERNESS RESORT British Columbia, Canada A luxurious tented safari resort located within the dazzling wilderness of Vancouver Island

Â© Bryan Stockton

25 TENTS SPA TENTED SUITES RESTAURANT UNESCO-DESIGNATED RESERVE FLOATPLANE ACCESS ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

CLAYOQUOT WILDERNESS RESORT, CLAYOQUOT, TOFINO, BC V0R 2Z0, CANADA +1 888 333 5405 | INFO@WILDRETREAT.COM | WWW.WILDRETREAT.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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or those who like their getaways peppered with a dose of adventure, British Columbia is second-to-none – misty cedar forests and icy blue lakes dominated by towering ancient snowcapped mountains, home to an abundance of wild animals ranging from black bears, cougars and killer whales to sea otters, elk and eagles. Vancouver Island is located just off the mainland’s western coast – a landmass of offbeat artistic communities and sprawling wilderness, it offers the prime location for a luxury hotel with a majorly untamed edge. ‘Beautiful British Columbia!’ This epithet appears on almost every licence plate in BC – but you won’t see it on the carriage that awaits you at the end of the dock when trekking from seaplane to horse-drawn cart at the Clayoquot Wilderness Resort. Situated in Vancouver Island’s remote Clayoquot Sound region, the resort is inaccessible by car, although just 45 minutes by floatplane from Vancouver. Clayoquot emulates a turn-ofthe-century outpost, with 25 white canvas prospector-style tents to choose from – along with a large log cabin Cookhouse, and the glass-walled Ivanhoe Lounge bar. The resort may have pedigree wilderness credentials, but it has been designed with 5-star luxury firmly in mind. Homage is paid to the area’s adventurers of yore with a mixture of heritage and ultramodern touches – a remote-controlled cast-iron woodstove to keep you cosy, along with vintage oil lamps and antique silver and crystal detailing. The mossy surrounding forest and neighbouring biodiverse estuary offer plenty of wildernessspotting opportunities – the aim is to bring you as close as possible to this incredible natural world, without sacrificing a single drop of style or comfort. Bedwell, the local tidal estuary, is a treasure-trove of activity that draws visitors

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with an almost magnetic fascination. From a vantage point behind the resort bar’s landscape-framing glass, the water seems to sweep right underneath you and across the Sound to the former settlement of the First Nation of Ahousaht on the other side. We’ve rarely experienced a bar which can so persuasively ground you with a sense of place, drawing you directly into a wild landscape – only, with an expertly-crafted Vesper Martini in-hand. The simplest experiences can be the most rewarding here – mountain bike trails lead towards glacial-blue falls, kayaking excursions reveal bears playing on the shore. Trips that require slightly more planning also hold definite charm – a helicopter ride gives you an incredible perspective over

the surrounding scenery, allowing you to touch down and crunch the snow under your boots in the most pristinely peaceful locations. The attentive staff are always on hand to help guests plan inventive trips – ask, if you’ve got something in mind. The resort provides ample options to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring its 600 acres of magnificent landscape. The Healing Grounds Spa is just the place to experience a restorative massage or invigorating yoga session, with two saunas, three hot tubs and a cold plunge pool all set in the tranquillity of the forest. The Cookhouse uses sustainable methods and local produce to craft a menu of luxe yet comforting cuisine, expertly prepared by the resort’s extraordinary BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

team of Relais & Châteaux class artisan chefs. The culinary team’s foragers source wild produce from the forest, while local fishermen bring in a daily seafood delivery of fresh scallops, halibut and crab. A singular experience in an aweinspiring setting, Clayoquot Wilderness Resort combines the beauty of nature with the serenity of elegantly well-designed high-end facilities. Carefully-considered features show a true commitment to connecting guests with the world around them – after all, there aren’t many luxury establishments that allow you to start the day off breathing in the scent of the fresh morning dew on the piney earth from the comfort of your own private outdoor rainforest shower.

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DR SEBAGH Advanced skincare brand combining French manufacture with unique formulations The Dr Sebagh brand, co-owned by cosmetic doctor Jean-Louis Sebagh and businesswoman and philanthropist Melissa John, is one of the few privately owned skincare brands that formulates and manufactures its own products. This independence enables them to develop unique and powerful formulations using advanced bio-tech ingredients, carefully chosen for their potency and specific benefits in addressing a particular skincare need or concern. The Dr Sebagh brand’s philosophy has always been about the skin’s individual needs, and that ‘feeding’ it properly with the correct ingredients for your skin type, in the right concentration and using the latest bio-technology available, is the key to achieving the best possible skin. Dr Sebagh was the first person to advocate the mixing of different serums to create a personal skincare regime. “As a cosmetic surgeon, I don’t believe in miracle skincare creams. But I do believe that good quality skincare can make a real difference to the skin. Feeding the skin on a daily basis with carefully selected ingredients for your own needs is essential to maintain a youthful skin,” explains Dr Jean-Louis Sebagh.

Dr Jean-Louis Sebagh

Dr Sebagh 25 Wimpole Street London W1G 8GL +44 (0)20 76370548 drsebagh.com

Having won countless awards for excellence the Dr Sebagh brand has many ‘hero’ products loved by beauty insiders, Hollywood celebrities and inﬂuencers worldwide. These include Dr Sebagh Deep Exfoliating Mask, Dr Sebagh Serum Repair, Dr Sebagh Supreme Maintenance Youth Serum, Dr Sebagh Pure Vitamin C Powder Cream and the recently launched Dr Sebagh Vitamin C Brightening Primer SPF15. Dr Sebagh attributes the success of the brand to his and his partner’s drive for quality and integrity, coupled with the best of France’s manufacturing, with its long history of innovation and excellence.

‘Skin maintenance should start as early as possible to slow down the ageing process’

Dr Sebagh and Melissa John

Alongside producing the highest quality products the Dr Sebagh brand has a history of philanthropic work and has made substantial donations to many charitable projects and causes including the West London Action for Children, the Brain Tumour Charity, the National Homeless Charity, the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, the Dog’s Trust, the Bentley Priory Museum and many others. In 2018, Melissa John, on behalf of the brand, established The Mercury Foundation, to continue and expand their charitable work both in the UK and overseas. “Dr Sebagh and I are passionate about what we do and believe strongly in giving back. If we can help causes or charities we believe in, we do,” says Melissa. The Dr Sebagh brand is sold globally through well-known department stores and online via the brand’s website.

WARA Atacama, Chile A luxurious and otherworldly oasis, deep in the sand dunes of the Atacama Desert

7 VILLAS RESTAURANT BAR POOL INCREDIBLE VIEWS JACUZZI FIREPLACES SPA GUIDED TOURS WEDDINGS ROOM SERVICE FREE PARKING HELIPAD

WARA, LA CRISTIANA S/N, SECTOR CERRO NEGRO CHAMONATE, COPIAPÃ&#x201C;, CHILE +56 52 252 0112 | RESERVAS@WARA.CL | WWW.WARA.CL BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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urreal and magnificent, the Atacama Desert is a truly unique experience. The driest place on earth, it covers a staggering 41,000 miles of rocky, lunar landscape, with a scope that feels too vast to be truly understood. With views ranging from salt lagoons to sculptural golden dunes, Atacama feels like a whole universe of its own – and that’s before you even get into the galaxy of possibilities offered up by its star-gazing opportunities. The Milky Way can be seen from April through to September, and you might even spot Jupiter and Saturn too. Within this magical alien setting lies Wara – aptly named with the Quechua word for ‘star’, this luxurious boutique hotel offers a small number of luxurious private villas, each with its own cosy built-in fireplace. Located in the Copiapó region of the Atacama, this one-of-a-kind desert hotel is special enough to impress

even the most seasoned travellers. It was dreamt up by owner and designer Susana Aranguiz, who worked mind, body and soul to make her dream come to life. Upon arrival, Wara shimmers ahead of you like a mirage – a destination of colour and warmth, it is designed and built with earth elements in the traditional adobe style of the Atacama. Décor is crafted by local artisans, with rugs and textiles handweaved by Coya women, and posts made of reused cypress wood from Patagonian telegraphic publications dating back to the 1800s. Each carefully-chosen piece of design detail lends another square to the patchwork of cultural storytelling of Wara, like a living tale that the visitor can inhabit. The private villas at Wara are built to feel peaceful and spiritually enriching, with privacy fences and outdoor seating areas ensuring that guests have a quiet place to relax, reflect and take it all in. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

The hotel has its own spa and wellness centre, along with a scenic outdoor pool that sun-worshippers will adore. The onsite restaurant is a gem, encapsulating the best food traditions of the region with fresh fish, ceviche and meat alongside organic vegetables grown in the on-site garden, and a variety of Chilean wines. A fire-heated stone jacuzzi offers the ideal spot for an after-supper soak. Despite Wara’s myriad of dazzling charms, it feels criminal not to get out and explore this incredible and unique landscape. The hotel’s staff can help to organise a wide variety of trips and excursions – the day trip to El Mar de Dunas, or The Sea of Dunes, for a gourmet picnic at sunset is in particular not to be missed. The astronomical tour is another highlight, with a knowledgeable guide on hand to show guests all the celestial delights that are only visible in the Southern Hemisphere.

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RESERVA ONE LOVE Palomino, Colombia A restorative and unique hideaway in the verdant Sierra Nevada

6 PRIVATE BUNGALOWS MOSAIC POOL IN EACH BUNGALOW HELICOPTER LANDING SITE AIRPORT SHUTTLE CAR PARKING BAR RESTAURANT SPA OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES

RESERVA ONE LOVE, VIA LA SIERRA KM 2, PALOMINO, GUAJIRA, 101010, COLOMBIA +57 3 16 395 5997 | ONELOVERESERVA@GMAIL.COM | WWW.RESERVAONE.LOVE BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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or those travellers who want to be transported to a hidden paradise, completely removed from all civilisation, Reserva One Love offers a luxury sanctum in the middle of the jungle. Emerging from the winding track that leads away from the laidback town of Palomino, this special resort rests within the flourishing, tropical valleys of the Sierra Nevada, nestled by the Palomino riverbank. The 150-acre private reserve lends a sublime proximity to the endless rainforest and an unrivalled sense of privacy. Guests will find themselves considerately charmed by the authentic palapa-thatched huts set out across the hill, inspired by the architecture of the local indigenous cultures, offering a tranquil space to rest, relax, and reconnect with nature. Reserva One Love is home to six large hillside cabins that provide hammocks and sunbeds to lounge on, a plunge pool, and an outdoor shower and bathroom to enjoy the sensational vistas of the lush greenery and glacial river. Found within are all the technological luxuries to ensure maximum comfort, with a sustainable and

harmonising design in mind, embracing the local physical and human environment. Falling asleep with the jungle chorus; a symphony of howler monkeys and a dazzling array of birds and amphibians allows the mind to slip away from the normality of everyday life and revel in the cacophony of nature’s finest sounds. In the heart of the reserve, guests are greeted by palm roofs, gorgeous ethically-sourced woods and an open lawn, encouraging you to drink in the immense untamed surroundings forming the natural canvas upon which this truly unique experience has been created. Reserva One Love is filled with magical touches, including a zen labyrinth made of rocks and a large meditational fire pit. With your mind at peace, it’s time to delight one’s body with a gastronomical experience that is of much surprise, given how remote this sanctuary is. Reserva One Love prides itself on the astounding food created in its open kitchen; their gourmet cuisine will not leave you disappointed. The daily feasts are cooked using local ingredients, including a fabulous array of organic produce grown BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

within the property’s gardens; balanced with imagination, nutrition, and culinary inspiration from around the world. Meals are chosen and designed for each guest, leaving you savouring the culinary inventions that appear before you from the cast-iron wood oven, and providing you with constant wonder and delight. Further indulge oneself in a wide array of spa treatments, or for the more adventurous, explore by taking an excursion to the Mendihuaca waterfalls. Absorb the health-boosting energy of the glacial waters and discover a secret of the falls – an air pocket where you can submerge yourself and experience an unforgettable natural massage. Tour de force owner and manager of Reserva One Love, Allan, brings his own inimitable style of hospitality; as an encyclopaedia of indigenous culture, an instrumental part of the flawless service, and a source of a refreshing philosophy on living well. Allan decided to build his own vision of healthy and sustainable living by the Palomino riverbank, which led to this authentic immersion into total relaxation.

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HOTEL BOUTIQUE DON PEPE Santa Marta, Colombia

Stylish and romantic colonial boutique in Colombiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest city

12 ROOMS POOL WEDDINGS AIRPORT SHUTTLE CAR PARKING BAR RESTAURANT SPA

HOTEL BOUTIQUE DON PEPE, CARRERA 16 1C - 92, BARRIO CENTRO, SANTA MARTA, MAGDALENA 470005 +57 54 210 215 | RESERVAS@HOTELBOUTIQUEDONPEPE.COM | WWW.HOTELBOUTIQUEDONPEPE.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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eing the first Spanish city in South America, Santa Marta’s history has been rich and varied since its founding in 1525. This coastal hotspot is also blessed in its location and proximity to the natural splendour between La Costa Caribe and the Sierra Nevada mountains. The wonders of Tayrona National Park, the tranquil hamlet of Minca and the untamed beaches of La Guajira are all within tantalising reach. With its central location, Don Pepe is a few minutes’ stroll from the city’s highlights, including the beach, cathedral and gastronomic heart of Santa Marta surrounding Parque de los Novios. However, the undeniable draw of Don Pepe is found within its classical walls; a haven of relaxation, tranquillity and luxury that has been masterfully realised. As the oldest city in America, it comes as no surprise that Don Pepe is steeped with history and tradition within its grand walls. A building whose history is intertwined with local heritage, Don Pepe is named after Don Jose Benito Vives, who

purchased the 200-year old house in 1996, passing away just a few months later. His vision for restoring this colonial treasure to its former grandeur was taken on under the direction of the architect Juan Ignacio Vives Lacouture, one of his sons, continuing this family affair. Boasting such a high level of architectural preservation, the hotel exudes a classic charm between its seductive arches and original tiled floors. Don Pepe is home to 12 unique rooms that marry sophisticated comfort with sheer luxury. Contemporary white-stained walls, vintage wooden beams, soft palettes and shaded terraces allow the romantic charm of this hotel to seep through every crevice in this majestic architectural environment. Don Pepe’s charm continues as one passes into the central courtyard, in which a shaded pool surrounded by lush, tropical greenery and candle-lit lanterns await. A large sun terrace, enveloped in fuschia blossom, provides a beautiful escape to bask in the hot rays of the Colombian sun. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

A shaded hammock, exquisite king-size beds, jacuzzi and sun loungers provide romantic seclusion, with a commanding view overlooking the city’s rooftops. This paradisiacal experience only gets better, with the opportunity to indulge in any of the 12 different rituals for the face and body in the on-site Pevonia Spa Don Pepe, taking you further on your journey to relaxation and serenity. With the body and mind at ease, a culinary celebration is in order. The Bacota restaurant delights the taste buds with a range of local sublime seafood specialties and dishes inspired by world flavours, while staff members have perfected the art of attentive but discreet service, providing an experience that is both memorable and flawless. As the sun sets over El Morro, cocktail in hand from the exclusive rooftop lounge; admiring the authentic beauty of the surrounding Caribbean bay, Don Pepe is a magical sanctuary that carries with it a wealth of history and stories to enhance one’s stay.

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C O M F O R T

E L E V A T E D

C O M F O R T

E L E V A T E D

COMFORT ELEVATED

From day until night, for dressed-up, relaxed or elegant occasions, the ECCO SHAPE collection has versatile styles that can work for any occasion that requires a little elevation… ECCO SHAPE is created with FLUIDFORM TM Comfort Technology to follow the natural curves of your foot, for all-day comfort and stability. Crafted from a diverse range of unique and premium ECCO leathers, developed in ECCO’s own tanneries.

COMFORT ELEVATED

PURIT Y IS A RARE THING Since Sir Alexander Ramsay established the distillery in 1824 we’ve been going to extraordinary lengths to capture the purest expression of our whisky’s character. Located in the foothills of Scotland’s Cairngorms, we don’t just use crystal clear mountain water as an ingredient, we drench our stills with it, cooling the copper so only the finest vapours rise. A range of tour options are available and run from April through to the end of September – visit our website for bookings.

fettercairnwhisky.com

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THE RETREAT COSTA RICA Atenas, Alejuela, Costa Rica Celebrity chef-owned Wellness Retreat and Spa, nestled atop the lush green quartz mountains of Costa Rica, overlooking the Pacific Ocean

11 ROOMS POOL NO CHILDREN YOGA AIRPORT SHUTTLE CAR PARKING FITNESS CENTRE/GYM RESTAURANT SPA

THE RETREAT COSTA RICA, BARRIO JESÃ&#x161;S DE ATENAS, ALAJUELA PROVINCE, ATENAS, COSTA RICA +50 689 470 707 | RESERVATIONS@THERETREATCOSTARICA.COM | WWW.THERETREATCOSTARICA.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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elebrity chef, best-selling author, and health and wellness coach, Diana Stobo, dreamt of merging all her passions and knowledge of health and wellness into one transformational experience. In 2014, through vision and drive, she began to cultivate the idea, and through a desire to provide “heaven on earth” to those who yearned for change and a healthier view of living, THE RETREAT was born. A sanctuary from the stress of everyday life, nestled high atop a quartz mountain, literally in the clouds, rests a true place of peace and relaxation within the most nurturing and gentle of environments. THE RETREAT creates a journey towards total wellbeing through physical activity, stress reduction, cultural involvement, organic whole foods, and spiritual connectedness. These core tenets combined are the foundation and basis to which each guest will begin their transformation, feeling completely reinvigorated and rejuvenated by the time they leave this idyllic haven. On arrival, anticipation builds on the meandering uphill journey. Lying

ahead, the cobblestone path abruptly ends, revealing stark white structures suspended on the side of a lush green mountain. Remarkable, dramatic views over the Pacific Ocean and Nicoya Peninsula will take your breath away and when the clouds roll in, revel in the unique experience of being blanketed in a mystical fog; two magical worlds in one place. The architecture, intertwined with modern Zen concepts and Feng Shui principles was designed by David Cho. Each spacious, light-filled casita and suite, with its Feng Shui focus, is designed with relaxation and tranquillity in mind and has its own story. White walls and ceilings are softened by the light wooden floors, a gentle breeze flows through the open windows, and delicate pops of colour add a contemporary feel. Begin each day quenching your thirst with freshly infused water or a fresh pot of French-press coffee whilst soaking up the unobstructed views of the Pacific Valleys. With a celebrity chef as the mastermind behind this glorious retreat, it is no surprise the restaurant is a force of nature; literally. Relish in the al fresco BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

dining experience of Boca Dulce, where every dish is carefully constructed, with eighty percent of the ingredients grown in the nearby gardens. With no menu, each lavish meal is “chef’s choice” and mostly vegan – with a focus on an antiinflammatory diet, free from gluten, dairy and refined sugars. For the more carnivorous, there is an option for a protein in the evenings. Boca Dulce’s kitchen is an open concept – welcoming guests to observe, ask questions, and even tour the gardens and participate in culinary classes with the chef. THE RETREAT believes “food is medicine and fuel, not just for the inner body, but the exterior too”. This philosophy is seen even in their Spa menu, which features “Farm to Spa” organic and delectable edible treatments, handcrafted fresh from their garden. From detox cleanses, facials, massages and body wraps to Reiki, energy therapy, yoga, and even lifestyle coaching, THE RETREAT integrates natural healing through a wide array of experiences. THE RETREAT truly embodies its name, as it provides the perfect package for total mind and body wellness.

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DRAKE BAY GETAWAY RESORT Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

Perfect for courting couples and adventure-seekers, these private eco-lodges specialise in the provision of fine food, wildlife tours, and irresistibly dramatic views

5 PRIVATE CABINS BEACH GOURMET FOOD IN-ROOM BODY MASSAGE OCEAN AND RAINFOREST VIEWS ORTHOPAEDIC BEDS RESTAURANT

DRAKE BAY GETAWAY RESORT, OSA PENINSULA, COSTA RICA +50 660 037 253 | INFO@DRAKEBAYGETAWAY.COM | WWW.DRAKEBAYGETAWAY.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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boutique beach destination designed with romance in mind, Drake Bay Getaway comprises of five private cabins, each with a kingsize bed, twin rain showers, and openair decks. Owners Yens and Patrick, who relocated from Seattle to launch their eco-lodge in the heart of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, designed the resort with sustainable values at the top of the agenda. Built using teak from a specially selected Costa Rican production farm, the cabins themselves were engineered with ingenious passive cooling technology in place of conventional air conditioning. Situated closest to the beach, with the most private deck of all, Heliconia is surrounded by the eponymous plant and associated wildlife. During the rainy season a burst of colour appears around the cabin, with birds and butterflies attracted to the flowers’ distinctive redand-yellow petals. Nearby, and with a large window and balcony facing the mountains, the Orchid was designed as the perfect location from which to witness a Costa Rican sunrise. Meanwhile, occupying the first floor of the highest point in the Drake Bay Getaway Resort, Lantana looks out over the Corcovado National Park and the Pacific Ocean. With the entire second floor dedicated to ‘Passion’, the building’s unique position affords exceptional views of the surrounding bay, jungle, and national park. Finally, the most exclusive cabin in the resort, Bromeliad, is a spacious, rustic, luxury escape with a large balcony overlooking the sea, the Drake Bay jungle, and Corcovado National Park. It simply does not get better than this. Eager for guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding area, Yens and Patrick actively encourage participation in the wide variety of world-

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MEET THE VISIONARIES

YENS STELLER AND PATRICK LUDWIG

class tours on offer. Between diving at Caño Island, kayaking through the mangrove forests and whale-watching* in the bay below, the only challenge is choosing which to prioritise. That aside, with one of the most biodiverse environment of its kind on Earth, it’s nigh impossible to resist exploring Corcovado National Park. Playing host to sloths, snakes, monkeys, tapirs, and hundreds of species of birds, it will complete a list of must-see creatures quicker than a trip to your local zoo back home. When hunger finally, inevitably, catches up, Yen and Patrick’s legendary all-inclusive visitor package is akin to being at home, but with an upgrade to first class. Inspired by traditional Costa Rican cooking techniques, the kitchen *August to October

team employs fresh ingredients to prepare the menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Using produce from local sources including the resort’s own organic vegetable garden, the chefs encourage guests to discover the full range of both Latin American and international fusion cuisine. And with an impossibly tempting range of specialty coffees available, it’s hard to find a reason to even venture outside again. Fittingly, given its suitability for honeymooners, the facilities at Drake Bay Getaway Resort are notably geared towards couples. Although a babysitting service and childcare are available, it’s unlikely your stay will be interrupted by the pitter-patter of tiny feet – making this eco-lodge the perfect place to remember next time you’re planning a lavish, romantic getaway. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

Before moving to Costa Rica in 2013, Yens and Patrick worked for several cutting-edge technology companies in Seattle, USA. Keen to make major changes in their lives, they abandoned their tech careers to take on the new challenge of building a boutique resort in one of the most remote locations on the planet. The result is a world-class destination that has been constructed according to the strictest principles of environmentally friendly development. Built using 80% recyclable materials – including some of the finest sustainably harvested teak wood in Costa Rica – Drake Bay Getaway’s mission is to become a leading global destination for eco-tourism. Focusing on providing the best personalized services with the least impact to the environment, Yens and Patrick are committed to developing and expanding green practices within the resort.

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RANCHO PACIFICO Uvita, Costa Rica

A secluded rainforest escape â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perfect for romantics and adventurers

5 SUITES 2 TREEHOUSES RESTAURANT BAR OCEAN VIEWS INFINITY POOL HOT-TUB SPA GYM YOGA NATURE HIKES NO CHILDREN FREE PARKING PRIVATE HELIPAD

RANCHO PACIFICO, 1 RANCHO PACIFICO ROAD, PROVINCIA DE PUNTARENAS, UVITA, COSTA RICA +1 800-460-2383 | RESERVATIONS@RANCHOPACIFICO.COM | WWW.RANCHOPACIFICO.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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erched on a crest in the only area of Costa Rica where the mountains meet the sea, Rancho Pacifico is an oasis of serenity and luxury in the middle of the rainforest. Located 2,000 feet above sea level in the hillsides of Uvita de Osa, the chic adults-only hideaway uses its sleekly modern architecture of open-plan rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows to full effect – spotlighting spectacular views over the jungle, all the way to the Pacific Ocean beyond. Rancho Pacifico has been a labour of love, and this is shown in every little attention to detail throughout the property. Owners Mark and Marlo Leaman had been visiting Costa Rica for many years when they came across this secluded mountaintop hideaway. Falling utterly in love with the treetop setting and the panoramic views, they resolved to start a new life in paradise, buying the ranch in order to welcome travellers from all over the world. With Mark’s expertise as a mechanical engineer and Marlo’s wellness focus as a yoga instructor and dietician, they have created the perfect eco-luxe escape from daily life. Days at Rancho Pacifico are started off right with a locally-sourced French press coffee – one of the region’s flavour

highlights, and the perfect accompaniment to a quiet moment soaking up the views. The ranch is comprised of three luxury villas, two suites, and two high-spec and beautiful treehouses – a capsule assortment of secluded and dreamy accommodations. Each one makes the most of Uvita de Osa’s breath-taking views, with interiors designed to highlight the majesty of the natural world that presses in on all sides. A proliferation of infinity-view terraces ensure that you couldn’t miss a sunset, even if you tried. The on-site Spa Tranquila offers a range of relaxing and beautifying therapies, from massages and scrubs to wraps and facials. The open-plan treatment rooms gaze out across awe-inspiring rainforest vistas, for an additional element of wellbeing. Once feeling fully rejuvenated inside and out, Rancho Pacifico’s private guests-only restaurant should be your next port of call – overlooking Parque Nacional Marino Ballena’s famous ‘whale tail’ beach, it features an international menu of delights, with many created using produce from the ranch’s own garden. The hideaway’s unique sea-meetsmountains setting means that guests at Rancho Pacifico are placed firmly in prime position in order to experience the widest BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

possible variety of activities – with staff on hand ready to arrange everything. A rainforest teeming with wildlife stretches out ahead of you ripe for hiking and guided tours, while roaring waterfalls and mangroves can be easily reached. Whale watching offers a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle, while a romantic horseback ride on the beach at dusk is likely to stick in the memory for years to come. If you’re feeling adventurous, try waterfall rappelling or white water rafting – if you’d rather chill, then yoga on the deck or a coffee farm tour might be the perfect match. There truly is something for every taste here. Costa Rica isn’t short of an eco-lodge or two – but what really sets Rancho Pacifico apart from the rest is its combination of ecological sensitivity, award-winning spa and world-class dining. The staff to visitor ratio is also almost one to one, ensuring that guests are properly and lovingly taken care of at all times. Lovers, friends, and solo wanderers are all likely to discover an incredible journey waiting for them here, held within the lush greenery of Rancho Pacifico. From adventure to romance to pure relaxation, seek and ye shall find whatever it is you’re searching for at this treetop home-from-home among the clouds.

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NAPO WILDLIFE CENTRE Yasuni National Park, Ecuador A 5* sustainable eco-lodge nestled deep inside the Amazon, this hotel is the ultimate in jungle luxury

20 LAKESIDE CABINS BAR RESTAURANT STUNNING VIEWS AIRPORT TRANSFER

NAPO WILDLIFE CENTRE, YANEZ PINZON N26-131, LA NINA, EDIFICIO LAS CARABELAS, OFICINA 101, YASUNI NATIONAL PARK 0800 0325 771 | SALES@NAPOWILDLIFECENTER.COM | WWW.NAPOWILDLIFECENTRE.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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urrounded by breath-taking, pristine rainforest, Napo Wildlife Centre is the ideal escape for nature lovers who want to experience the untouched beauty of the Amazon while relaxing in 5* comfort. With twenty private, palm-thatched, spacious cabin suites, this exclusive rainforest retreat can accommodate a maximum of 50 people at any one time – ensuring that you’ll always feel like a special guest. All the suites have mesmerising lagoon and jungle views, with some luxury options including hammocks, panoramic glass floors, rainforest showers, and private jacuzzis. Arriving at Napo Wildlife Centre is an adventure in itself. An exciting motorboat journey from Coca city down the Napo River is followed by a peaceful canoe ride straight to this unique hotel. To protect the local wildlife, motorised canoes are not allowed within the Napo territory, so lie

back as your friendly local guide silently paddles his/her way along still waters under the shaded canopy of the rainforest. And keep an eye out for electric eels and stingrays, as well as giant otters, tropical parrots, monkeys, and even jaguars. Nestled on a small ridge at the edge of the stunning Añangu Lake, Napo Wildlife Centre is the ultimate in sustainable jungle luxury. Yasuni National Park is the largest UNESCO protected area in Ecuador, and one of the most bio-diverse regions in the entire world. The centre is owned and operated by the indigenous Kichwa Añangu Community, who founded it in 1998 and both built and decorated the lodge themselves in typical native designs, using a combination of local, handcrafted, and specially sourced materials. The delicious food is cooked with local and fresh ingredients, and solar panels and silent generators are some of BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

the many steps they have been taken to ensure minimal environmental impact. Although located deep inside the Amazon basin, Napo offers all the luxuries and comforts of a city hotel, with reliable electricity, hot water, comfortable beds, clean drinking water, laundry services, and internet. For those wanting a little excitement, explore the tropical outdoors with daily excursions including canoe trips, forest hikes, and birding and wildlife tours, as well as cultural journeys to meet the indigenous community and learn about their ancient traditions and modern projects. However, with its mesmerising views and stunning peace and quiet, you must take the time to do nothing more than sit and experience the hypnotic beauty of the Amazon, leaving any memory of day-today city-life far, far behind.

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FOND DOUX PLANTATION AND RESORT SoufriÃ¨re, St Lucia Located in the heart of a 250-year-old cacao plantation, this sustainable resort is famed for its eco-luxury cottages, authentic Caribbean experience, and, above all, its chocolate

15 COTTAGES BAR ORGANIC SPA THREE SWIMMING POOLS TWO ON-SITE RESTAURANTS WALKING TOURS

FOND DOUX PLANTATION AND RESORT, P.O. BOX 250, ST LUCIA +1 758 459 7545 | INFO@FONDDOUXRESORT.COM | WWW.FONDDOUXRESORT.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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hisky and wine aside, there are few food-and-drink attractions that can captivate visitors in the same way chocolate seduces people of all nationalities, backgrounds, cultures and tastes. With its broad varieties, unmistakable texture and nearuniversal appeal, it is arguably one of the most popular foodstuffs on the planet. Consequently, this makes Fond Doux – a historic source of chocolate’s key ingredient – a deliciously tempting tourist destination. Located on St Lucia’s west coast and luring visitors from around the world, this ancient but still-operational plantation forms the backdrop to a luxury ecoresort. Fond Doux Resort features 15 traditional-style French Colonial cottages that overlook the lush natural rainforest, offering both garden and stunning mountain views. The location lends itself equally to families, groups, individuals and couples. Once slated for demolition, three of the century-old wooden buildings were dismantled and relocated to the resort, and the rest were comprehensively restored onsite, all reopening as luxurious

guest accommodation. Unique in their own right, they lie hidden amid tropical cocoa groves in the shadow of the coastal peaks of the nearby Piton Mountains. Sleeping between two and four guests, each cottage is equipped with luxury bathroom, king-size bed and, in some cases, self-catering kitchen, and a balcony or patio. Sharing its space with fruit trees and day-glo-coloured birds of paradise, the stand-out Honeymoon Suite’s outdoor rainforest shower and private plunge pool make it ideal for a romantic break in merciful isolation from the usual tourist hotspots. Outside the resort, the jungles, waterfalls, and the Caribbean’s only ‘drivein volcano’, Sulphur Springs, all provide the quintessential tropical experiences infused with St Lucia’s typical warmth, hospitality, and charm. Meanwhile, Fond Doux’s twin restaurants serve both traditional and international cuisine, much of it prepared with ingredients sourced from within the resort itself. A significant component of the St Lucian culture, food and the techniques required for its preparation BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

represent a popular divertissement for both locals and guests. And with the Mama La Terre Spa’s extensive inventory of treatments – not to mention the infinite outdoor playground for snorkelling, scuba diving and hiking – Fond Doux focuses on the restorative powers of nature to help guests wind down a couple of gears. That said, it is perhaps the resort’s capacity as a Mecca for cacao fans that ultimately makes it so attractive. With the smell of chocolate wafting through the tranquil breeze, guests are encouraged to take part in making their own sweet delights, as the resort manufactures its own chocolate on the property. With guided tours of the cocoa harvesting, drying and grinding processes, to enjoying your own finished chocolate product, it is as educational as it is entertaining and seductive. For true connoisseurs, a visit to a genuine working cacao plantation is akin to a music fan’s pilgrimage to their hero’s birthplace. In this regard, you might say Fond Doux is to chocoholics what Graceland represents to Elvis fans.

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THE MERCHANT HOUSE Manama, Bahrain

A gem of contemporary Gulf Islamic architecture near Manamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic Bab al Bahrain souk

46 SUITES RESTAURANT BAR GYM SPA LIBRARY CONCIERGE ROOFTOP SWIMMING POOL

THE MERCHANT HOUSE, 150 GOVERNMENT AVENUE MANAMA, 304, BAHRAIN +973 1667 1000 | INFO@THEMERCHANTHOUSE.COM | WWW.CAMPBELLGRAYHOTELS.COM/MERCHANT-HOUSE-BAHRAIN/ BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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he island nation of Bahrain’s capital of Manama has a long and fascinating history dating well back into classical antiquity – today, the city is proud to showcase its millennia of historical legacy alongside the cuttingedge structures of huge skyscrapers and luxury shopping malls. For many centuries a busy port town that attracted merchants and travellers from across the world, Manama has a long-held heritage as a cultural melting pot bubbling with diverse influences. This is immediately visible in the jam-packed treasures of the city’s bustling souks, and also in its proud foodie offering. Close to Manama’s famous Bab al Bahrain souk is The Merchant House – a five-star luxury hotel that epitomises the city’s flair for combining heritage with ultra-sleek modern styling. Part of the Campbell Gray network, it has a thoughtful and elegant mien that reflects the attitude and mood of the city itself. Interiors are streamlined and welcoming, hung with a variety of contemporary artworks made

by celebrated international and Bahraini artists. Home to 46 immaculate suites, the hotel lies within the city’s fast-generating downtown area – an exciting and cosmopolitan location that is well-suited to exploring. The rooftop is a key stopping-off point for visitors to The Merchant House – a Campbell Gray signature, it features the hotel’s Indigo restaurant and bar, an outdoor garden terrace, and an emeraldtoned open-air pool. This is the ideal spot to sample some of the best local dishes, to take a dip and soak up the sun, or simply to watch the world go by on the historic streets below. The hotel’s library is another must-visit – located on a mezzanine floor overlooking the lobby, it is a peaceful sanctuary of over 1,000 books that have been carefully curated by the The Ultimate Library of Oxford for guests’ enjoyment and leisure. A charming spot for afternoon tea and cakes, it is also the perfect refuge in which to stop and recharge after a morning’s adventures around the city. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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Friendly and helpful staff can advise you on the best places to soak up the sights and sounds of the city. One highlight lying just outside the hotel’s doors is the famous Manama souk – located in a maze of narrow streets, this atmospheric market has everything from shisha pipes and traditional clothing to electronics. The colourful nightlife of Block 338 is just a 15-minute taxi ride away, as are the priceless artefacts and artworks of the Bahrain National Museum. The hotel offers a variety of wildlife tours too – guests can visit the ancient Tree of Life in the Arabian Desert, or marvel at the local flora and fauna at the Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve. After a day’s sightseeing, your afternoon port of call should be The Merchant House’s on-site spa. Working with natural and sustainable products wherever possible, the PureGray Spa uses local Bahraini company Green Bar as well as Spanish luxury skincare Natura Bissé to create a holistically soothing and engaging space for beauty and wellness treatments.

KAYUMANIS YANGSHUO PRIVATE VILLA & SPA Yangshuo, China

A peaceful private villa retreat in scenic Yangshuo

30 PRIVATE VILLAS BUTLER PRIVATE SWIMMING POOL SPA RESTAURANT BAR LIBRARY LOUNGE MEETING ROOMS

KAYUMANIS YANGSHUO PRIVATE VILLA & SPA, FENGLOU VILLAGE, YANGSHUO, GUANGXI, CHINA +86 773 679 7777 | YANGSHUO@KAYUMANIS.COM WWW.KAYUMANIS.COM/KAYUMANIS-YANGSHUO-PRIVATE-VILLA-AND-SPA BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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urrounded on all sides by ancient history and fascinating topographic formations, Yangshuo is a gateway to a world of magic and wonder. Around the edge of the city and beyond, otherworldly karst rock forms jut out of the green, lush landscape – in ancient Chinese folklore, these are referred to as the “teeth of the dragon”. The city is crossed by the majestic Li River, which is often used as a symbol of China’s natural beauty (and even appears on the country’s currency). As the local saying goes: “Guilin has the best scenery under heaven – but Yangshuo is even more beautiful.” The Kayumanis Yangshuo Private Villa & Spa harmonises with this ethereally dreamy setting, ensuring a getaway that is as aesthetically elegant as it is peaceful and soothing. Located directly on the Jin Bao River, which forms a branch of the Li, the resort opened in early 2019 with a focus on holistic wellness through spa treatments, fine dining and exemplary hospitality. The entrance is cleverly located on an elevated

area of the resort, offering wrap-around views of the region’s imposing scenery. A central courtyard has been designed to spotlight a porte-cochère that’s inspired by the architecture of traditional Chinese palaces, and a water feature of river stones between glass panels reflects the majesty of the karst formations beyond. The resort is made up of 30 private villas spread out across 18 hectares of land, each with its own swimming pool and sundeck nestled within a walled garden for optimum privacy. Interiors are designed in a pavilion style, inspired by the beauty of ancient Chinese pagodas – look out for the large picture window, which has been cleverly designed to evoke the form of a lotus in bloom. Peace and relaxation are key, and the resort’s on-site spa offers beauty and body treatments intended to place the visitor at one with the local scenery, staffed by skilled and knowledgeable Balinese therapists. The resort’s own Nine Restaurant is another highlight – a striking floating BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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structure, it offers a dramatic landscape view across the river to the Limestone Mountains through its large, frameless windows. The menu combines the best of Asian and European flavour profiles, with a particular focus on Indonesian cuisine, made using local and seasonal produce. After supper, the best place to unwind has to be Kayumanis Yangshuo’s lobby bar, Foliage – a soothing bolthole surrounded by tranquil ponds, it serves a wide array of cocktails, beer and wine alongside nonalcoholic juices and teas. A butler is always on hand to help guests to find or organise whatever they desire for an enriching and enjoyable stay – from particular local food cravings to unique day trips and excursions. Guests might choose to take a trip down the Li River to see where local fisherman go fishing with cormorant birds on a backdrop of bamboo plantations and pastoral farmland, or opt to visit the Silver Caves formed from dramatic stalagmites and stalactites.

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ABBA RESORTS IZU Izu, Japan

A serene hot spring resort, offering traditional Japanese aestheticism with a Western twist

17 SUITES 13 PRIVATE VILLAS STUNNING VIEWS CAR PARKING BAR RESTAURANT

ABBA RESORTS IZU, 1741 YAWATANO, ITÅ&#x152;, SHIZUOKA PREFECTURE 413-0232, JAPAN +81 557 531 170 | ZAGYOSOH-YOYAKU@ABBARESORTS-JAPAN.COM | WWW.ZAGYOSOH.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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zu is located in the Shizuoka prefecture of Japan on the Pacific coast of central Honshu, two hours south of Tokyo. The region’s striking scenery of deep green forests and rugged coastlines are punctuated by an abundance of onsen (Japanese hot springs) and watched over by the sun-shimmered bulk of Mt Fuji itself. This is the setting of Abba Resorts Izu, a luxurious establishment that combines all the very best elements of Japanese hospitality and style – with a distinctly occidental twist. The hotel includes 30 rooms, made up of 17 suites and 13 private villas. Each is decorated in either a traditional Japanese or Western style – it’s even possible to switch between rooms during your stay, should you wish to experience the best of both. The resort is home to two worldstandard on-site restaurants, one with a French specialisation (Yamamomo) and one that focuses on Japanese cuisine

(Sakura). Both use local ingredients wherever possible, working with the region’s best suppliers and using herbs from the hotel’s own garden. Sakura is recommended for its 12-course kaiseki meals and excellent Japanese breakfasts. Guests can experience grating and tasting fresh wasabi during dinner or dine at Yamamomo, which produces Frenchinfluenced dishes twisted with local spirit, which virtually double up as works of art. The hotel provides Green Tea tasting and pairs this delicacy with their IZU-French Cuisine. Aesthetics and relaxation are twin passions at Abba Resorts Izu, with a layout engineered to foster a powerful feeling of wellbeing. Parts of the hotel are laid out in the classic Japanese ryokan style, with traditional sliding doors and rattan flooring elevated by the wealth of luxurious open-air baths and water features throughout, interspersed with BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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rooms designed in a Western style. Most rooms feature their own private open-air bath, with a pool on the main roof offering views out over the surrounding forest canopy. Abba Resorts Izu is also home to an antique Japanese sword gallery, where guests can view authentic swords made in the 1950s; with some of their models being envied by the historical famous samurai. Despite its secluded-feeling setting, it is easy to get out and about and explore from Abba Resorts Izu – for a slice of local scenery, road trip an hour up the coast to visit one-thousand-plus years of impressive Chinese and Japanese artworks at MOA Museum of Art on the hilltop of Atami. Alternatively, take a trip to nearby Mt Omuro for lunch at the beautiful Omuro Keishokudo restaurant at its base, before hiking the mountain or exploring the local pottery workshops and galleries nearby.

LE GRAY Beirut, Lebanon

A serene Mediterranean escape in the heart of downtown Beirut

103 ROOMS ROOFTOP VIEWS BAR RESTAURANT POOL FITNESS CENTRE SPA CAR PARKING 24 HOUR ROOM SERVICE

LE GRAY, MARTYRSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; SQUARE, BEIRUT CENTRAL DISTRICT, 2011 3312 LEBANON +961 1 971 111 | INFO@LEGRAY.COM | WWW.CAMPBELLGRAYHOTELS.COM/LE-GRAY-BEIRUT BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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eirut is a place that inspires great feeling – no-one could ever accuse this city of being boring or bland. The writer and painter Rabih Alameddine once described it “the Elizabeth Taylor of cities: insane, beautiful, falling apart, aging, and forever drama laden”, while poet Etel Adnan posits that Beirut has “the manners and customs, the flaws and vengeance, the guilt and debauchery of the whole world into her belly”. Lebanon’s capital is known for its ancient cultural heritage incredible cuisine – but it also does a pretty good line in chic restaurants, sandy beaches and spectacular mountain views. In the heart of the city’s humming energy and vibrant hubbub lies Le Gray – an ultrasleek luxury hotel located on the edge of Martyrs’ Square, at the very entrance of Beirut’s downtown area. With 103 spacious and lavishly-designed rooms spread out over five floors, the hotel is designed in a clever combination

of modern architectural elements and traditional Lebanese cultural references. The ideal space to relax and recharge before your next foray into the bustle to discover the city’s myriad historical, cultural and gastronomic offerings. A breathtaking floor-to-ceiling central atrium is structured from glass, bringing a continuous stream of natural light from the top of the building onto every floor. The rooftop infinity pool (open during every season but winter) is a real highlight – fully heated, it offers stunning views across the twinkling lights and striking architecture of the city’s roads and rooftops and across the Mediterranean to Mount Lebanon. The sunsets here cannot be overstated in their magnificence – make sure to set aside at least one evening to marvel, cocktail in hand, as the changing colours bleed across the sky above you. Le Gray is briskly debonair in its approach to luxury hospitality, offering BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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a dress or suit-pressing service directly upon arrival. The Cigar Lounge is an oasis for those who love Cubans and Cognac, with indoor and outdoor sections according to personal taste. The onsite PureGray Spa is a haven for beauty and wellness treatments – the personalised aromatherapy massage is sure to set you right. An indulgent breakfast spread includes a la carte and buffet options, setting you up in style for the day ahead. The hotel was opened in 2009 by world-renowned hotelier Gordon Campbell Gray, who fell head-over-heels for Beirut upon his visit to the city. As he aptly puts it: “between me and Beirut, it was a love affair… a city by the sea is pure magic. This is how I see Beirut.” Located a 15-minute taxi ride away from BeirutRafic Hariri International Airport (BEY), the hotel has a fleet of Audis for luxury transfers, and drivers can make use of a 24-hour valet parking service.

THE RESORT VILLA Rayong, Thailand

A complex of remote villas on the Gulf of Thailand, bordered by pools and lush gardens

7 VILLAS CAR TRANSFER BOAT CHARTERS INFINITY POOL SPA FITNESS CENTRE 24-HOUR SECURITY CINEMA DINING

THE RESORT VILLA, 334 M 3, KRAM, KLAENG, RAYONG, THAILAND 21190 INFO@THERESORTVILLA.COM | WWW.THERESORTVILLA.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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he Resort Villa is a luminous complex of seven luxury villas, offering a peaceful and secluded private getaway on the Gulf of Thailand that’s entirely tailored to guests’ specific desires and needs. The hotel complex spans over 14,000 square metres of tropical landscape, located right on the golden sands of the beach and hosts groups of up to 14. Its hideaway location and luxurious setting offers a uniquely private experience in paradise – with 60 full-time staff to ensure an environment that is as personalised as it is meticulous. Each of the villas at The Resort Villa is decorated in a tranquil contemporary style. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to survey the local flora and fauna from the vantage point of a four-poster bed, with the sea glittering just tantalisingly out of reach. Minimalist and striking, the villas’ contemporary design merges seamlessly with the natural beauty of the

coastline. The sense of serenity is so deep it almost borders on the euphoric, with a surrounding of azure pools totalling a thousand square metres – more than enough space to swim and float those daily cares away. The villa features a plethora of facilities that can’t fail to delight even the most weary and jet-lagged traveller: the indoor and outdoor surround-sound cinemas are perfect for lazy evenings, while the wellequipped gym offers panoramic views across the lush scenery and the spa has a full complement of services. Those who opt for a game of pool in the onsite game room will find themselves in great local company (the room’s 15-metre private aquarium holds over 50 species of tropical fish). But the grounds themselves are arguably the hotel’s greatest jewel – talented on-site chefs use produce from the vegetable garden to cook up their incredible dishes wherever possible, and BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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the villas are connected by a sprawling infinity pool. For somewhere with such an enviably remote location, The Resort Villa is remarkably well-connected – two hours’ drive from Bangkok International, or 40 minutes from the hustle and bustle of industrial Rayong city (look out for a glimpse of distant islands over the sparkling seas to your right). The region is a haven for exploring, something the hotel is set up to take maximum advantage of. Staff can help to curate almost any experience to suit your mood, from cruising the Gulf on one of The Resort Villa’s luxury boats to jet skiing around the islands of Koh Samed and Koh Chang. The neighbouring beach offers ample opportunity for snorkelling, kayaking and wakeboarding – as well as simply relaxing on the sands while the breeze plays across your skin, of course.

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AWARTA NUSA DUA RESORT & VILLAS Bali, Indonesia

This enchanting collection of spacious, immaculate private villas is the embodiment of five-star luxury and service

14 PRIVATE RESIDENCES 24-HOUR BUTLER SERVICE 24-HOUR FITNESS CENTRE BAR PRIVATE DINING AREA PRIVATE POOL RESTAURANT SPA

AWARTA NUSA DUA RESORT & VILLAS, KAWASAN PARIWISATA ITDC LOT NW 2 & 3, NUSA DUA, 80363, BALI, INDONESIA +62 361 773 300 | INFO@AWARTARESORTS.COM | WWW.AWARTARESORTS.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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ocated in a peaceful district in the south of Indonesia’s most popular tourist destination, Awarta is a cleverly proportioned fusion of traditional Balinese and Chinese architecture. Developed as part of a specially curated complex of luxury hotels, shops and sporting facilities, the resort aims to inspire visitors to explore the archipelago and its many islands. Designed with rich, bold furnishings and artwork, Awarta’s 14 private residences are arranged as a selfcontained village. Constructed using traditional, sustainable materials, each property is comprehensively equipped and attended to by discreet, friendly staff. Open-plan interiors, marble floors, spastyle baths, and rich furnishings are all signature features, and close proximity to the beach is a given. With a large garden, its own pool and an airy interior, the Private Pool Villas offer 24-hour butler service and an exclusive dining area. Further up the scale, the larger 450 square metre, one bed Royal Orchid villa also prioritises indoor–outdoor living and dining areas. The Two-Bedroom Private Pool Villas are well-suited to families, couples and groups, adding a further bedroom and additional living space. The Royal Roselle increases the total size to 750 square metres and includes a private pool, dining area, and 24-hour butler service. And for the ultimate accommodation, the three-bedroom residences provide all the refinement of the other villas but with up to 950 square metres of living space. Immediately following check-in, a prompt visit to the health spa is highly recommended. With an extensive menu of healing treatments, relaxation techniques and detox programmes, it is the essential destination for mind-and-body rejuvenation. Alongside the requisite

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sauna, fitness and massage facilities, the Thevana Spa offers hand-crafted treatments and homemade ingredients, while the specialist Kneipp foot therapy is known to reduce stress and bolster the immune system; handy to know, when both of the resort’s restaurants do their job so well. Preparing an encyclopaedic range of traditional Balinese and Western dishes – from extravagant breakfasts and light lunches, to afternoon snacks and intimate dinners – there is a meal or food to suit one’s mood. And when the bathing, exploring and indulging have all wrapped up for the day, take a moment to sit in one of the covered daybeds and breathe in the surroundings. With extraordinary landscaping and the sweet, unmistakable scent of frangipani trees, Awarta Nusa Dua is a tropical retreat with exquisite luxury and charming Balinese hospitality at its core. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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HANGING GARDENS OF BALI Bali, Indonesia

A magical hidden retreat perched high above the Balinese jungle, overlooking an ancient temple

44 PRIVATE VILLAS AIRPORT TRANSFER POOL STUNNING VIEW WEDDINGS 24 HOUR SERVICES BUTLER SERVICES CAR PARKING BAR RESTAURANT SPA

HANGING GARDENS OF BALI, DESA BUAHAN, PAYANGAN, BALI 80571 +62 361 982 700 | RESERVATIONS@HANGINGGARDENSOFBALI.COM | WWW.HANGINGGARDENSOFBALI.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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n the heart of the mystical Ubud jungle, set among lush, tropical rainforest, lays Hanging Gardens of Bali, a veritable paradise on earth. A 30-minute drive from Ubud village, this secluded resort is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Completed in 2005, it was built by 700 local craftsmen who came together using traditional materials and indigenous ideas to create a truly astounding resort. It was created with Feng Shui principles to mean infinity and stability of energy – crucial factors, considering the resort is built on a 45-degree slope. The sprawling property is arranged down the side of a valley in the middle of the rainforest, effortlessly in harmony with its breath-taking and serene natural environment. Funiculars take you up and down the hillside to and from your villa or the riverside spa. The two main oval shaped infinity pools stretch out over the forest canopy, giving swimmers the unique sensation of floating above the treetops. It’s no surprise Condé Nast

Traveller once voted it “The World’s Best Swimming Pool”. Each of the resort’s 44 private villas provides exclusive and intimate luxury, with individual private infinity pools and large, comfortable beds.Traditional Balinese decor is combined with opulent, contemporary design – think signature hand-crafted furniture, exotic fabrics, open-aired dining areas, and spectacular master bathrooms. The perfect blend of style and comfort. The unforgettable spa overlooks the sacred Ayung River and offers Balinese massages, facials and more; using allnatural, organic ingredients, many of them grown there on the estate. Choose from the spa’s signature treatments and rituals, and enjoy a delight to all the senses as the scents and rhythmic sounds of the jungle and river further lull you to a state of complete relaxation. For those who wish to do more than float between spa and pool, there are plenty of activities on offer. The hotel can organise sacred blessings for guests with a BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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local priest at neighbouring Dalem Segara Temple. Or wake early one morning and enjoy an enlightening journey through the local villages. Take a leisurely walk or cycle through rice paddies and valleys, as your guide points out Balinese medicinal plant life along the way. Upon request, the retreat offers private yoga (chargeable), as well as the opportunity to take a bit of Balinese culture home, with private cooking lessons. The food from the resort’s restaurant, Three Elements, is exceptional. Using local ingredients and techniques, the chef creates a thoroughly modern (and delicious) take on Indonesian cuisine. Breakfast is a huge affair, with a varied and plentiful buffet, and fresh tropical fruits and afternoon tea are available as complimentary daily. However, for a truly unique dining experience, enjoy a decadent dinner in the intimacy of your own villa – with your exceptional meal served floating on a traditional Balinese mini-boat in the middle of your private infinity pool. Eat, swim, sleep, repeat.

THE SEYCHELLES ISLANDS

Seychelles – Love is in the air In our frantic, modern world relaxation techniques invite us to close our eyes and dream of a place where tired spirits can be refreshed. But why dream when Seychelles is only hours away? Creation has blessed these friendly islands with perpetual summer, the space to breathe the purest air and room to unwind on the powder-soft sand of endless beaches. Against the romantic backdrop of our diverse islands, scattered like pearls upon the warm, azure waters of the Indian Ocean, your yearning for the ultimate in beauty and tranquility will become reality. Seychelles, made up of 115 pristine, tropical islands, is a magnificent archipelago, containing the only mid-ocean granitic islands on the planet, that was certainly known to the early Arab sea-farers before being colonized by the French in 1770 and then by the British in 1814 before becoming an independent republic within the Commonwealth in 1976. In an ecologically compromised world, Seychelles offers sanctuaries for numerous, endemic species of flora and fauna that are amongst the rarest on earth. Many endemic and indigenous species can be discovered on the network of guided walks. The islands are also home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: The Vallée de Mai, upon whose ancient palms grows the wondrous Coco-de-Mer, and fabled Aldabra, largest raised atoll in the world. Throughout the islands are to be found unparalleled opportunities for sailing on bare-boat or skippered yacht, world class deep-sea and fly-fishing, as well as a broad diversity of dive experiences for the novice and experienced diver alike. From Mahé, principal island of the Seychelles, the nation’s islands extend 100 km north and 1000km in a glittering arc towards ourthe east coast of Africa. Between 15 minutes and 1-hour flight time from Mahé, several of our select island getaways offer accommodation in well-appointed lodges and resorts ranging from sumptuous five-star luxury to

beach-side cottages with a natural and homely elegance. The islands enjoy a rich variety of hotels, each with its own brand of welcome to seduce the visitor with the charms and rhythms of an island lifestyle that are refreshingly authentic and with sights, sounds and flavours that are typically Creole. Sensual Seychelles has long been dubbed ‘the islands of love’. Home to the unique Vallée de Mai, purported by many to be the site of the original Garden of Eden, it is little wonder that lovers are inspired to take their vows and wed in this gentle and romantic atmosphere. Marriage and/or honeymoon packages are offered by several leading travel agencies to ensure that your wedding day or honeymoon will be as blissfully romantic and unique as you, in your wildest dreams, can conjure, allowing the memories of those special days to become forever emblazoned in your hearts. Whether in Seychelles for a wedding or honeymoon, make a rendezvous with destiny and set your own stage for the most romantic days of your life beneath swaying palms, alongside crystal waters fringed by silver-soft sands. Sip exotic tropical cocktails against the backdrop of crimson sunsets. Visit the island of La Digue where time stands still and bicycles hold sway on the pathways to the dream beaches of Grand Anse and Source D’Argent. Or, simply lay back and watch the days and nights slip ever so slowly by from within the luxurious cocoon of a dream island getaway. Quietly stroll the Vallée de Mai where the legendary Coco-demer nut grows high on ancient palms. Dine tête à tête with your feet in the sand on uncrowded beaches or try your hand at dancing the moutia, ancient dance of slaves, whose sensuous rhythms beckon from the flicker of a beach fire beneath a lover’s moon. So, come and savour the ultimate in tropical romance! Be swept off your feet by the breathtaking beauty of the world’s most stunning islands that offer you diversity, a carefree lifestyle and the services of dedicated professionals whose attention to detail will leave you with the freedom to enjoy the moments of a lifetime.

HIDDEN HILLS VILLAS Bali, Indonesia

Design-led private villas, perched high in the Uluwatu hills

7 PRIVATE VILLAS INFINITY POOLS STUNNING VIEWS BUTLER SERVICE PRIVATE CHEF SPA TREATMENTS GYM AIRPORT TRANSFER CAR PARKING

HIDDEN HILLS VILLAS, JL. LABUAN SAIT, GANG PUNCAK SEKAPA II, PECATU, KUTA SELATAN, PECATU, KEC. KUTA SEL., KABUPATEN BADUNG, 80361 BALI, INDONESIA +62 361 8957574 | BOOKING@HIDDENHILLSVILLAS.COM | WWW.HIDDENHILLSVILLAS.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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rom the ancient hillside temples and bustling markets to the lush jungles and dramatic volcanoes, there is something uniquely creatively fortifying about Bali. The writer Anaïs Nin mused in her diary that: “Life, religion and art all converge in Bali… Everyone is an artist. Creativity is natural and widespread.” This is how it feels to visit – the Balinese philosophy towards life is one that imbues everything with both spiritual and creative meaning. Hidden Hills Villas was set up as a passion project by Swiss mother-andson duo Beatrice and Max, channelling the local approach of life-as-art with their luxurious retreat. Beatrice herself previously worked in the art world for 23 years – this feels evident in the thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail that is to be found in Hidden Hills. The setting is comprised of seven private villas each with its own pool, nestled in the hills

of Uluwatu in the Bukit peninsula. Villas are decorated with design elements from all over the world, in order to achieve a unique look and style for each one. Invisible from the road, Hidden Hills Villas has a truly tranquil and peaceful location above the ocean in Uluwatu’s hills – a gem-like rarity in South Bali, with its lively hubbub of shopping, dining and dancing. Each villa offers spectacular views across the Indian Ocean, with a magical blue harmony created between infinity pool, sea and sky. A private butler is on hand to arrange for anything that guests could desire – anything from car and motorbike rentals to excursions around the island or Head Chef Ayu to come and cook for you in the privacy of your own villa. Food is prepared by an in-house chef, with options for breakfast, lunch and dinner – the seafood barbecue, prepared and served in your private villa garden, BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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comes particularly highly recommended. Couples or honeymooners might be interested in the Love Package – an unabashedly romantic setup that comes complete with rose petal scene-setting, a massage for two, and a luxurious fourcourse meal. Privacy and seclusion are key here – there are no common areas, and everything you might need can be provided by your personal villa staff. The talented technicians of the onsite Villa Joglo spa are also always on hand to provide treatments in the privacy of your own room, while an ocean view gym means you can keep up with your usual routine, even while away. Should guests find themselves itching for a bit of adventure, their butler will be able to arrange all kinds of excursions around the island – soak in hot springs near Mount Batur, go surfing in Padang Padang, or cruise through the jungle on an ATV.

KAYUMANIS JIMBARAN PRIVATE ESTATE AND SPA Bali, Indonesia

Prioritising comfort, romance, and personal service, this idyllic honeymoon destination is hidden away between a tropical garden and the coconut trees of Jimbaran Bay

20 VILLAS 24-HOUR BUTLER SERVICE BAR BEACH CHILD-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT WEDDINGS

KAYUMANIS JIMBARAN PRIVATE ESTATE AND SPA, JL. YOGA PERKANTHI, JIMBARAN, KUTA SEL., KABUPATEN BADUNG, BALI 80364, INDONESIA +62 361 705 777 | EXPERIENCE@KAYUMANIS.COM | WWW.KAYUMANIS.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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art of a sprawling Balinese estate on the island’s southern coast, these traditionally built one- and two-bedroom villas were originally conceived for long-stay guests. However, in the last few years, Kayumanis Jimbaran has morphed into a short-stay holiday destination in its own right. Located next to an ancient fishing settlement and near a lively marketplace, the village’s pristine beachfront provides a tidy metaphor for the immaculate grounds and villas within the resort. Open, spacious and with a notable emphasis on the cultivation and celebration of love and romance, each property benefits from a private swimming pool and timber terrace. Boasting either a king-size canopied bed or Hollywood twins in addition to a spa-like open-air bathroom, each villa is also fitted with a fully equipped kitchen.

Despite this, the authentic Indonesian cuisine produced in the on-site Kayumanis Resto ticks all the necessary gourmet boxes on its own. From within his customised Javanese joglo, Chef Oka and the team prepare a menu of modern and classic dishes inspired by the surrounding islands, taking guests on a flavourful journey across the archipelago. Employing market-fresh ingredients to create signature dishes including traditional Balinese smoked duck and mind-bendingly delicious desserts such as Es Goreng – fried ice-cream served with a white berry sauce – his creations are as confounding as they are groundbreaking. The award-winning Kayumanis Spa, meanwhile, combines the dual power of aromatherapy oils with the skilled hands of its therapists. Offering a range of BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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treatments either in the dedicated rooms or in the privacy of one’s own villa, the expert team leads guests on a remarkable journey aimed at abandoning exhaustion and stress and replacing it with vitality, energy, and refreshment. Thankfully, unlike an increasing number of luxury destinations these days, Kayumanis Jimbaran Private Estates and Spa is purposefully equipped to welcome and entertain younger visitors as well as parents. With vast open, green areas, shady palms and the gentle waters of Jimbaran Bay nearby, the resort is perfectly suited to hosting families as well as loved-up couples. In fact, with its superb facilities, professional staff, stunning location and family-friendly atmosphere, everything about this glorious destination reflects the spirit of Balinese life.

he Seabourn experience is unlike any other form of travel. It is luxurious, yet relaxed … elegant, yet casual … sumptuous, yet understated. A concept designed around an intimate boutique hotel, which happens to be at sea. This is a world of ultra-luxury, where space is generous and crowds are few; where names and wine orders are remembered, preferences noted, and wishes granted before they are spoken. Seabourn’s five intimate, all-suite ships will carry you to the heart of great cities, exclusive yacht harbours and secluded coves. Each ship features a world-class spa, inviting dining venues and lounges, pools and a unique retractable marina. Enticing activities may include fascinating Seabourn Conversations with guest experts from the fields of the arts, history, science and UNESCO world heritage (Seabourn is the only cruise line to have an official five year partnership with UNESCO – which has just been extended for a further five years, enabling guests to enjoy exclusive UNESCO content on specially curated tours), while evenings offer entertainment including “An Evening with Sir Tim Rice” and soirees under the stars on deck. Seabourn has partnered with world-renowned Michelin three-star chef Thomas Keller, who has added his expertise and inspiration to menus and the signature “Grill by Thomas Keller” The quality of service guests enjoy on Seabourn is exceptionally sincere — you will feel the discernible difference between being simply catered to, and being truly cared for. The staff’s knack for anticipating what guests might like borders on the clairvoyant. Each Seabourn staff member is committed to providing every guest their very best service at every opportunity. They take genuine joy in adding that extra touch that transforms a simple act into a personal gift — what we call a Seabourn Moment. VISIT YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL OR CALL 0344 338 8615 WWW.SEABOURN.COM

KAYUMANIS NUSA DUA Bali, Indonesia

A private, romantic getaway on the immaculate coast of Baliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nusa Dua

20 VILLAS PRIVATE POOL BUTLER SERVICE BEACH SPA NO CHILDREN FREE WIFI BEACH BAR 24-HOUR SERVICES AIRPORT SHUTTLE RESTAURANT

KAYUMANIS NUSA DUA, ITDC AREA JL NUSA DUA, BENOA, KUTA SEL, KABUPATEN BADUNG, BALI 80363, INDONESIA +62 361 770 777 | EXPERIENCE@KAYUMANIS.COM | WWW.KAYUMANIS.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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ith its inky sunsets, crystalblue seas and endless stretches of perfect sand, Bali is the quintessential romantic destination – and Kayumanis is the epitome of this, offering everything you’ll need to relax and reboot à deux. Perched on the shoreline of genteel Nusa Dua in Bali’s well-manicured southern tip, this set of luxury pool villas provide an ideal respite from the frustrations and vagaries of daily life, at a slight remove from the bustle and liveliness of the rest of the island. Each of the 20 villas features its own private pool, complete with outdoor sunbathing areas along with inner dining and living spaces. Each spacious home-from-home measures over 350 square metres, and is decorated in a fluid

combination of modern minimalism and local Balinese design elements. The compound is designed to maximise privacy, surrounded by high vine-covered walls that dreamily blot out the outside world. The two on-site restaurants – one classic Italian and the other modern Indonesian cuisine – ensure that you never even have to leave. Island living is translated into its most luxurious and languid form here, with a firm focus on tranquillity and enjoyment. At Kayumanis, each stay begins with a welcome massage, allowing you to start as you mean to go on. Breakfast is made available at whatever time you happen to arise – plan a romantic surprise on the beach at sunrise, or order it direct to your bed after an opulently long lie-in. The BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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shore is just a short stroll away, with sun loungers and a friendly barman to keep you in the holiday spirit – the perfect spot to soak up the scenery with a Mai Tai. An airport shuttle service and free on-demand chauffeur make it easy to get out and about to explore the island. Nearby Pasifika Museum is worth a visit for its collection of Pacific art, especially the incredible carved tikis, as is the intricate Pura Geger stone temple which rises photogenically from a tree-covered stony headland on the coast. An 18-hole championship golf course is also located just a few moments’ drive away – perfect for if you’re dying to squeeze in a quick game between rounds of sun worship and beachside massages.

KAYUMANIS SANUR Bali, Indonesia

A private, luxurious villa set in the calm, tropical landscape of Baliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s southern rainforests

11 VILLAS POOL STUNNING VIEWS 24 HOUR SERVICES BUTLER SERVICE AIRPORT SHUTTLE BEACH BAR RESTAURANT SPA

KAYUMANIS SANUR, JALAN TIRTA AKASA NO.28, SANUR 80227, BALI, INDONESIA +62 361 270 260 | EXPERIENCE@KAYUMANIS.COM | WWW.KAYUMANIS.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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amed after the keyed instrument that plays the resonant melodies in a traditional Balinese orchestra, Kayumanis Sanur is a tranquil piece of paradise. From the moment you walk in, you’re invited to relax – with a cooling drink followed by a complimentary thirty minute back and shoulder massage. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and scenic rice fields, this boutique hotel offers breath-taking views, un-paralleled service, and the ultimate in modern comfort. Inspired by the rustic village setting that embraces it, Kayumanis has eleven spacious, comfortable villas. Seamlessly blending into the surrounding nature, the design is a contemporary tribute to the aesthetics of Balinese artistry. Each villa, in a choice of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom configurations, is a sanctuary from the outside world, featuring a private swimming pool, an outdoor shower, openair living room and kitchenette, and every conceivable modern home convenience to compliment the simple pleasure of

tropical living. If so inclined, you need never step out of your villa - with spa services, meals, and 24-hour butler and chauffer services available, providing absolute privacy and personalised, warm service to each guest. The hotel includes an upscale Balinese specialty restaurant, Gong, with delicious local dishes served in an outdoor pavilion set within a tranquil garden framed by mature trees and tropical greenery. The menu is driven by market-fresh ingredients and seasonal delicacies infused with local herbs and spices. Breakfast can be arranged at any time, meaning long, luxurious lie-ins, and complimentary high tea with traditional Balinese cakes is served daily. Do try the hotel’s delicious freshly baked cookies, they are exquisite. Bali is famous for its spa and therapeutic treatments, and those at Kayumanis Sanur do not disappoint. The spa is grounded in the ancient Hindu belief that balance in the body, mind, and spirit is the ultimate key to wellness, and their traditional BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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Balinese healing and beauty treatments reflect this. Luxurious, holistic practices use naturally sourced ingredients such as indigenous herbs, spices and plant materials that are prepared from ancient recipes, and will leave you feeling replenished and restored. Kayumanis is very family-friendly, with activities such as kite-making and cooking classes for children, as well as on-site babysitters. For those looking to venture out, take a walk or cycle tour through the surrounding rice fields, experience an authentic spiritual Balinese blessing ceremony at the local priest’s home, or enjoy a traditional barong dance performance in the midst of the morning breeze. Additionally, the hotel provides complimentary transfers to Sanur beach, a mere ten-minute drive away, where it has a dedicated area for guests with sun-loungers and umbrellas. A delicious gourmet beach picnic or sunrise breakfast can be arranged, perhaps followed by a day spent diving, snorkelling, fishing, parasailing, or jet skiing.

KAYUMANIS UBUD

PRIVATE VILLA AND SPA Bali, Indonesia

A romantic hideaway in the heart of Bali’s legendary Ubud, this charming collection of villas is concealed amid a tropical forest of cinnamon trees next to the Ayung River

aking the indoor–outdoor experience to an unprecedented new level, these thatched-roof villas represent the peak of Balinese luxury and discretion. Situated a few kilometres from the hallowed Ubud Palace and linked by a labyrinth of interconnecting jungle paths, the expansive setting belies the fact there are 23 separate properties sharing the same space. Set in 2.5 hectares, each cottage houses one, two, or three bedrooms, and features a private pool, kitchenette, and open-air bathroom. Assisted, if required, by an on-call personal butler, guests may pick from a selection of activities including yoga, trekking, cycling tours, and Balinese cookery lessons. The latter involves visiting a traditional local market accompanied by a Kayumanis chef to select the key ingredients for preparation in the villa later that evening. As a window

23 POOL VILLAS 24-HOUR BUTLER SERVICE COMPLIMENTARY DAILY SHUTTLES TO UBUD TOWN INFINITY POOL NO CHILDREN UNDER 16 RESTAURANT SPA WEDDINGS YOGA

KAYUMANIS UBUD PRIVATE VILLA AND SPA, JL. RAYA SAYAN BR. BAUNG, UBUD, BALI 80571, INDONESIA +62 361 972 777 | EXPERIENCE@KAYUMANIS.COM | WWW.KAYUMANIS.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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onto the world of daily life, culture and traditions here, the experience guarantees to broaden the imagination and enrich one’s own repertoire back home. A further resort highlight, the Kayumanis Spa plays host to a wide range of therapies and treatments. Housed in a traditional-style building constructed from indigenous materials including hardwood and local thatch, the spa is designed to accommodate just one couple at a time. From head and body massages and natural yoghurt scrubs to facials, shiatsu, acupressure, and other ancient rejuvenating techniques, everything here aims to restore vitality and stimulate the soul. However, the key difference between Kayumanis and just about every other comparable facility lies in its flexibility; not only is there a varied selection of beauty and healing treatments within the

spa itself, they may also be performed in the guest’s own villa. This indoor–outdoor experience consequently makes available the skills and hands of the therapists in whichever environment the guest feels most comfortable. Similarly, the resort’s restaurant serves a blend of classic Thai and contemporary Western cuisine. Perched high over a river valley, Dining Corner is open all day and serves extravagant Thai lunches, afternoon teas, romantic candlelit dinners, and even caters for barbeque parties. The background soundtrack of waterfalls and cicadas does much to enhance the overall jungle-garden setting, although as with the spa treatments, all meals are transferrable from restaurant to villas if preferred. The Wine Corner concept, aimed at connoisseurs, is designed to showcase a collection of fine Balinese wines, produced BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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in what are probably the closest vineyards to the equator on the planet. An exemplar of Balinese hospitality, the service at Kayumanis Ubud is always attentive without being intrusive, and the staff bring to proceedings a rare but refreshing combination of professionalism and informality. Indeed, so committed is the company to the development of local talent and skills that the staff here consider themselves part of the Kayumanis ‘family’ and in turn reward the resort with unconditional loyalty. Ideal for honeymoons, weddings, anniversaries, or simply a romantic getaway, this dreamy retreat is arguably one of the finest destinations in Indonesia. Comprising glorious accommodation, award-winning spa facilities, fine dining and exemplary service, it is also among the most irresistible.

REETHI FARU Filaidhoo, Maldives

A paradisiacal island escape with eco-conscious sensibilities

150 VILLAS WATER SPORTS CENTRE BARS RESTAURANTS SPA INFINITY POOL TENNIS COURTS DIVING SCHOOL

REETHI FARU, FILAIDHOO, MALDIVES +960 400-4000 | INQUIRY@REETHIFARU.COM | WWW.REETHIFARU.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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rom aquamarine seas to sugarwhite sands and lush foliage, the Maldives offer a setting that is straightforwardly (and almost unbelievably) beautiful.These screensaverworthy beaches are some of the best in the world, with the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean providing a whole underwater world of reefs and sea life to discover. It is in this idyllic setting, on the small island of Filaidhoo, that Reethi Faru lies. Built a little over a year ago, this attractive full-island resort offers ecoaware practices with a firm luxury ethos. Home to 150 villas, it has a variety of different options – garden villas, villas with an outdoor spa bath, beach suites – in order to suit the needs of families and larger groups alongside couples and honeymooners. Despite its secluded ‘desert island’ vibe, the island of Filaidhoo is big enough to comfortably provide each traveller with what feels like a tailormade experience, fitted perfectly to their

specifications – from sunbathing and spa treatments to scuba diving, jet-skiing and paragliding. Decorated in an earthy beach aesthetic, the resort blends harmoniously into the organic beauty of the island’s natural landscape with an easy-breezy sense of modern luxury. Romantic touches such as strung lighting and a wooden jetty to the on-water restaurant only add to the curatedly ‘desert island’ feel. Reethi Faru houses a selection of eight bars, restaurants and cafes, meaning that you’ll never be far away from your next snack (or cocktail). The Coconut Spa is just the ticket for pure spa indulgence, with massages, scrubs and wraps on offer alongside hair, face and nail treatments. An inviting infinity pool holds spectacular views out across the ocean, while tennis courts, a gym and yoga classes allow guests to keep up with their daily drivers in effortless island style. The water sports centre is world-class, equipped with the latest technology in jet-skis, Flyboards, paragliders, drones, BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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and even electric-powered Seabobs. Scuba-diving is one of the main draws here, and for good reason – with the entire island encircled by a reef, there is a whole universe to discover underwater. The resort are engaged with advanced reef-rejuvenation methods, implemented by their in-house marine biologist – they can even arrange snorkelling trips with the resident scientist, for a uniquely informative and fun experience. Committed to responsible practices around eco-conservation and sustainability, the resort uses an 85% solar energy contribution as well as hightech farming techniques that ensure as much produce as possible is grown on the island, rather than being shipped in. The attentive, and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to help, ready with a recommendation to make your stay as enjoyable as humanly possible. Excursions further afield are also on offer, with tantalising options including Sunset Sailing and Desert Island Drop.

I T IS T H E D E TA I L S T H AT M A K E T H E D I F F E R E N C E . Welcome on board a cruise ship fleet without compare â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with small, individual ships and a high degree of personal freedom.

Find out more about our luxury and expedition cruises at www.the-world-ahead-of-us.com

Photo: Torsten Dickmann

VILLA CAEMILLA Boracay, Philippines

A tropical paradise of sun, sea, sand, and sheer relaxation on the white beach of Boracay

39 ROOMS BAR RESTAURANT BEACH FREE WIFI

VILLA CAEMILLA, STATION 3, ANGOL, BARANGAY MANOC-MANOC, BORACAY ISLAND, MALAY AKLAN 5608, PHILIPPINES +639 175 269 449 | RESERVATIONS@VILLACAEMILLA.COM | WWW.VILLACAEMILLA.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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hen one imagines the platonic ideal of a tropical beach – sugar-white sands and azure waters, gentling waving palm trees and magnificently multi-hued sunsets – the image conjured up looks very much like the Philippines’ idyllic island of Boracay. After an island-wide six-month closure in 2018 to restore the island to its true glory, Boracay reopened with strict environmental guidelines to protect the setting’s natural beauty and to safeguard its ecosystem. Upon arrival by boat, guests will immediately be struck by the paradisiacal appeal of this small-but-mighty island destination – a jewel among the country’s estimated 7,640 archipelagos and islets, whisking guests away into a tropical paradise of sun, sea, sand and sheer relaxation. Villa Caemilla is located in Station 3, on the quieter end of the island’s iconic White Beach. Just steps away from the ocean, takes advantage of its prime location, with their exclusive beachfront Beach Club providing guests with comfortable, ergonomic loungers, complimentary cold water, cold towels, and

food and beverage service where attentive staff members cater to your every whim. Villa Caemilla offers a wealth of contemporary, luxury accommodation. Each room or spacious suite has been expertly designed with a sophisticated palette that mirrors the kaleidoscope of colours that form Boracay; from the warm white sand to the crystal-clear water, and the vast open sky that changes colour throughout the day from brilliant blue to cerise pink as the sun sets over the horizon. Each stroke of colour has been chosen to evoke a feeling of calm and serenity for its guests. For those able to peel themselves away from the luxury of their rooms, guests are encouraged to explore the island. Whether you are a beach lover, wish to sail the ocean, horse ride, mountain bike, dive, snorkel, or even cliff jump – there is something for even the most daring of individuals. Not to mention the nightlife – Boracay is home to some of the best island bars and clubs in the world. Catch the sunset on White Beach before you head out for the night, then head to Bulabog Beach to catch the golden sun rising over the sea the next morning. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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Alternatively, for those looking for a more ‘zen’ way to end the day, why not book in for a pampering session at Bella Isa Spa and unwind, ready for the next day’s activities in paradise? Just a few doors down from the hotel, this spa offers in-room service alongside a raft of luxurious beauty and wellness treatments such as scrubs, wraps, massages and more, all carried out by highly-skilled technicians. Those hoping to have their taste buds tantalised will not be disappointed. From the signature Caemilla breakfast, including freshly baked croissants, eggs, bacon, and tomatoes, to the authentic island food in which the chef showcases Boracay’s freshly grilled seafood straight from the BBQ – guests will return to their rooms at the end of each day with their stomachs and hearts full. The warm, personalised Filipino hospitality coupled with the pictureperfect tropical beach setting will have couples and families returning over and over again to this gem in Boracay. Once Villa Caemilla casts its spell, it will hold you in its net of wonder forever.

AVANI+ SAMUI RESORT Koh Samui, Thailand

A tucked-away island gem, set apart from the crowd in Koh Samui

58 ROOMS BAR RESTAURANT POOL FITNESS CENTRE SPA BEACH CAR PARKING STRIKING VIEWS

AVANI+ SAMUI RESORT, 53/5 MOO 4, PHANG KA, SURAT THANI 84140, KOH SAMUI, THAILAND +66 77 485 299 | RESERVEAVANI@AVANIHOTELS.COM | WWW.AVANIHOTELS.COM/EN/SAMUI BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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hen modern life gets too much and a little rest and relaxation is in order, your best bet might very well be Avani+ Samui. Nestled on the island’s sunset-facing southwestern side, far away from the hectic madness of Koh Samui nightlife, this hotel has been designed and built to exemplify an ethos of pure serenity and calm. Home to 58 chic rooms and villas (33 of which come with their own private pool), the Avani+ Samui has an effortlessly sleek and modern aesthetic that lends itself well to the great art of the lounge. The resort is located right on the snow-white shoreline, with the Gulf of Thailand’s waters shimmering beyond – guests can easily kayak out onto the ocean or into the local mangroves, by borrowing one of the hotel’s own kayaks. Once a week the team arrange an atmospheric movie night directly on the beach, screening films chosen by popular vote by the guests

and providing comfortable beanbags and lounge chairs. Beach volleyball tournaments take place regularly, and the resort’s bikes are always on-hand for adventures. Yoga sessions are held daily on the sands for the best possible start to your day, and the excellent facilities of the on-site spa and gym will ensure you feel as good inside as you do outside. Finally, a flexible all-day check-in and check-out ensures that guests will feel truly at home while they’re here. The hotel’s beachfront restaurant Essence Koh Samui is convivially laidback, with a healthy menu consisting of regional and international dishes made with local produce – check the specials board to see what fresh catch is chalked up there. Later, make sure to head down to the resort’s unique bar truck (kitted out in a customised Kombi next to the pool) for a kitsch tropical cocktail while the sun goes down. The hotel holds an evening barbeque on the beach twice a BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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week, which is really not to be missed – a live band provides the soundtrack, set against the backdrop of pristine blue seas and skies. Barbeque options range from authentic Thai cuisine to cheeseburgers – no judgement here, as the chef (just like everyone else at Avani+ Samui) just wants you to have a good time. One particularly attractive aspect of the hotel’s offering is the sheer number of activities they are willing and able to organise for guests. Avani+ takes all guests on a complimentary half-day trip to Koh Tan and Koh Madsum via authentic Thai longboat, stopping off to go snorkelling and visit the wild pigs that live on the beach. For guests who are piqued to explore further, options are myriad and seemingly inexhaustible – from trekking in the jungle and exploring ancient temples to kayaking through the mangroves, visiting the traditional fishermen of Hua Thanon, and treasure-hunting in the local night time markets.

VILLA MIA Koh Samui, Thailand

An opulent hideaway on the coast of Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s idyllic Koh Samui island

5 BEDROOMS SHUTTLE TRANSFER CONCIERGE CAR RENTAL BABYSITTING SERVICE PRIVATE CHEF BEACH POOL GYM

VILLA MIA, T. BOPHUT, CHAWENG, KOH SAMUI, SURAT THANI 84130, THAILAND +66 637 322 659 | KATIAMISHPATI@GMAIL.COM | WWW.VILLAMIASAMUI.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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hen it comes to travelling wisdom, it turns out Alex Garland’s snapshot-of-the‘90s slacker novel The Beach may have got a thing or two right after all. The protagonist’s advice to “never refuse an invitation, never resist the unfamiliar, never fail to be polite, and never outstay the welcome” is still sound all these years later – even for erstwhile gap-year travellers who may now be bona fide grown-ups with children of their own. For explorations and new experiences, it’s hard to beat Koh Samui as a destination. A place of dazzling potential, the island offers everything from spa services to sunrise beach parties – the perfect place to unwind and rediscover. Located here is Villa Mia, an oasis of calm perched right on the peaceful northern tip of Chaweng Bay. Famous for its incredible sunrises, Chaweng features pristine white sands and azure waters, along with a wealth of upscale resort

establishments. Villa Mia reflects the setting’s unadulterated sense of natural beauty – interiors are minimalist and modern, representing the best of Thai design with their ultra-symmetrical and sleekly photogenic aesthetic. The villa’s sunken lounge area offers a particular highlight: nestled in the middle of the 23 metre lap pool, it allows a shaded space from which to unwind and relax in the centre of the action. The villa has been thoughtfully planned to be child- as well as adultfriendly, with a babysitting service available upon request. Those with little ones to entertain will also appreciate the large expanse of grass and children’s paddling pool, which sits alongside the sizeable outdoor pool and jacuzzi. Surrounded by swaying tropical plants and clear blue skies, Villa Mia’s lounging spaces offer an area that is cosy and welcoming and yet still beguilingly exotic. It’s easy to stay connected here, should BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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you want to – WiFi is available throughout the complex, while each lounge features a large flat-screen TV. The full team of staff includes massage therapists, maids, handymen, a Thai chef, a concierge and an on-site manager, who are on hand to assist your stay in any way they can. Villa Mia is the only private beachfront villa on Chaweng beach, located mere steps from the dazzling ocean. It may be tempting to stay cocooned in your own luxurious bubble at Villa Mia. However, those who are restless for adventure will not be sorry – and thanks to the local car hire services, the island is yours to explore. Both Wat Plai Laem (which features an 18-armed statue of the goddess Guanyin) and Wat Phra Yai (with its huge ‘70s-era gilded Buddha) temples are worth a visit, and can be reached quickly by car. If you’re craving a solo venture, it’s also worth discovering the outer edges of the coastline to find less populated beaches – or heading out just before dusk for a spot of sea kayaking.

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EXPERIENCE A BEYOND-LUXURY HIDEAWAY Nested in the collection of islands that form the Noonu Atoll, a 45-minute seaplane flight north of MalĂŠ, Velaa Private Island was created with a simple idea â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to bring together the best of the Maldives on a single island. A turquoise ocean, vibrant coral reefs, and pristine beaches. A combination of Maldivian structures and modern architecture. Local delicacies and gourmet cuisine prepared by world-class chefs. And most importantly, rest, peace and relaxation. At Velaa, luxury is more than wealth or surplus. Luxury is a state of mind.

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QUALIA, GREAT BARRIER REEF Hamilton Island, Australia

An idyllic island escape where chic decadence marries seamlessly with unspoiled tropical wonder

60 ROOMS POOL HELIPAD FREE WIFI AIRPORT SHUTTLE BEACH FITNESS CENTER/GYM BAR RESTAURANT SPA

QUALIA, GREAT BARRIER REEF, 20 WHITSUNDAY BOULEVARD, HAMILTON ISLAND, QUEENSLAND 4803, AUSTRALIA +61 749 489 222 | GUESTSERVICES@QUALIA.COM.AU | WWW.QUALIA.COM.AU BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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n an island famed for the timeless beauty of verdant greenery tumbling into turquoise waters haloing crystalline beaches, Qualia holds its own in and amongst the great magnificence of mother nature. A Latin word, ‘qualia’ translates to “a collection of deeper sensory experiences”, and even the most accustomed of jetsetters will find themselves spoiled for choice in how to best luxuriate at this resort. With 60 high-end lavish and spacious pavilions, guests are treated to panoramic, uninterrupted views of the Great Barrier Reef coupled with the luscious tropical landscape of the secluded northern-most point of Hamilton Island. With a chic, soft palette and timber details, each pavilion provides sheer relaxation and escapism. Floor to ceiling windows provide an expanse of light and air that fills each room, allowing the sea breeze to further whisk away the worries of daily life, as you bask leisurely in the dramatic vistas of the coral reef from large sundecks with private infinity pools. For those wanting to go the extra mile, Qualia offers a unique beach house in which thoughtful touches

prevail; architectural revelations offer comfort in natural, wood elements with grand windows that lower to the floor at the touch of a button, a sophisticated and expansive dining area that seats 10, and a 12-metre infinity swimming pool offering tranquility, raw luxury, and privacy with uninterrupted sparkling ocean views. Mouthwatering breakfasts, served on your balcony to the serenade of passing whale pods, are the only fitting way to begin a day where the sole objective is to lose track of time. For guests looking to leave the private haven of their pavilion, blissful reverie can be found in an immersive hour or two with a gifted masseuse at Qualia’s spa. With a diverse menu of treatments and therapies, designed to engage deeper sensory experiences, you’ll leave feeling completely reinvigorated and relaxed. The beachfront-served, contemporary menu of seasonal delicacies and tropical staples that marry elegance, balance of flavours and presentation is a must. The chef and his team have successfully refined a menu of Asian influence, that showcases Whitsunday’s finest local produce. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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Eventually beguiled by the view of passing yachts flitting beyond the horizon of your private infinity pool, complimentary personal motorised carts become intrepid vessels of exploration, rapidly transporting the newly energised traveller to the delights of a local marina well stocked in fine dining and exclusive boutiques, or to picturesque rambling bushtrails piercing the heart of this palm fringed island. Meeting points for the plentiful excursions to nearby reefs, untouched beaches, or general seafaring bonhomie, are all just moments away, and of course all are delivered with the finesse of a destination that truly knows how to impress. At the end of each day, pause in a moment of sanguine contemplation with a lovingly crafted custom cocktail sipped recumbent from the edge of a sunkissed veranda; and with a nightly turndown service including soporific herbal teas left steeping in the lounge and the most delicious handcrafted chocolates paired with soothing lemon oil infusions left simmering in a candlelit bathroom, it is only fitting that a restful night’s sleep on this paradise island awaits.

TAVEUNI PALMS Taveuni Island, Fiji

A flawless tropical hideaway amid waving coconut trees on the edge of a pristine, ivory-hued beach

2 VILLAS FULLY STAFFED POOLS PRIVATE BEACH SPA WATER SPORTS

TAVEUNI PALMS, P.O. BOX 51M, MATEI, TAVEUNI, FIJI +67 9 888 0032 | INFO@TAVEUNIPALMS.COM | WWW.TAVEUNIPALMS.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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n the face of it, Taveuni is as isolated as a desert island should be. Known locally as the ‘Garden Island of Fiji’ it is the third largest in the South Pacific archipelago and one of its best-kept secrets. Spectacularly verdant, picturesque and friendly, Taveuni Palms attracts visitors drawn to the world-class diving, bushwalks and prolific bird life in this perennially warm, welcoming destination. Each occupying half a hectare of beachfront and served by seven members of staff who provide five-star food and service, the dual accommodation options are designed for comfort and seclusion. Sitting directly on private white sands, the air-conditioned Beach Villa boasts sweeping gardens, a private beach and swimming pool. Equipped with superkingsize beds, luxurious bathroom and an outdoor shower, it also benefits from daybed sofas, hammocks, lofted ceilings and subtle décor. Opening up along the entire frontage, its doors were designed with ocean views and sea breezes in mind.

Meanwhile, high above the Pacific Ocean sits a private, air-conditioned hut – a ‘bure’, in the local lexicon. But this is no ordinary hut. The centrepiece of the Horizon Spa Villa is a dizzyingly pretty infinity pool which seemingly disappears directly off the deck. It lends the impression of holidaying in a glorious stilt house, albeit without the vertigo. With no formal restaurant at Taveuni Palms, guests are at liberty to choose their dining setting within the grounds; from private beach to villa deck, or poolside table to inside the villa itself, the setting may vary according to mood, hour, or appetite. Billed as a culinary journey through the South Pacific and served by a pool of friendly staff drawn from India and the entire Pacific Rim, Fiji’s rich culinary heritage is manifested on the plate through a bounty of exotic fruits, vegetables, and startlingly fresh seafood. With boundless menus and five special private dining locations, no meal is ever the same. Revitalised and ready to explore, guests are presented with an inexhaustible BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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catalogue of activities and distractions. From hiking and swimming to kayaking, fishing, cycling or scuba diving, there is always an energetic diversion on offer. And for those who are keen to avoid such exertion, the resort’s spa combines authentic Fijian treatments with high quality products made from the purest indigenous oils. Taveuni Palms is, by virtue of its location, considered something of an isolated destination. But alongside the friendly staff, fresh food, sumptuous accommodation and heart-stopping views, perhaps the real beauty of the resort – and its greatest asset – is its relative accessibility. For in spite of its apparent desert-island status and perceived isolation, Taveuni is just a short flight away from nearby Viti Levu, the largest and most populous island in the Republic of Fiji. All of which means that without long and exhausting transfer journeys on arrival and departure, a break here could well end up the holiday of a lifetime.

LUXURY LODGE COSTA RICA

Tel. +506 4001 53 56 www.originslodge.com reservations@originslodge.com

TE KOI – THE LODGE AT BRONTE Bronte Peninsula, New Zealand

A secret slice of heaven with stunning views of the Waimea Estuary, nestled in the beautiful Bronte Peninsula

5 SUITES RESTAURANT POOL SPA BEACH BEAUTIFUL VIEWS CAR PARKING AIRPORT TRANSFER BUTLER SERVICE HELIPAD PET FRIENDLY

TE KOI – THE LODGE AT BRONTE, 133 BRONTE RD E, BRONTE 7173, NEW ZEALAND +64 3-540 2422 | OFFICE@TEKOITHELODGE.COM | WWW.TEKOITHELODGE.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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ompact in size, the South Island of New Zealand is infamously wild and magnificent in scope – with a landscape that encompasses forests and mountains, beaches and fjords. A haven for ‘tramping’ (or hiking, to non-Kiwis), it has trails and pathways running all the way from tip to tip. Located on the Bronte Peninsula on the edge of the northern Tasman region lies Te Koi – a tranquil luxury retreat with a resolutely warm and welcoming approach. Owners Ali and Ian Metcalfe have curated a perfectly-calibrated feeling of attention to detail within the elegant interiors and sprawling gardens of the Te Koi estate. The lodge feels like home, even to short-term visitors – chef Ali can be found in the lodge kitchen preparing meals from produce either grown in the lodge garden or locally sourced, and the couple are always excited to introduce

guests to wineries, wild mushroom growers and the many local artisans. Te Koi in Maori translates as ‘The Headland’, embodying its name perfectly in atmosphere and setting. A spectacular view of the Waimea Estuary stretches out ahead of you from the lodge, precluded by a lush garden dotted with secluded seat spots and filled with the delicate aroma of flowers. This garden adds to the estate’s escapist vibe – as if you are wrapped up in greenery, far away from the rest of the world. A world of adventure awaits beyond, cycle the Great Taste Trail, hike in the Abel Tasman National Park, or explore the landscape’s stunning beauty by helicopter or boat. The lodge is home to two suites, two villas, and one opulent two-bedroom residence, each with a focus placed squarely on intimacy and warmth. Great love has gone into designing a stylish BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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sanctuary of indulgence and relaxation, including a spacious lounge to curl up in, an ensuite bathroom, and a wellappointed kitchen. Every room is elevated by local artwork, perfectly matched to its bespoke decor. Wake up in your king-size bed, revived and refreshed, to witness the crowning glory of a spectacular estuary sunrise glowing across your own private deck, then savour a fresh and seasonallyprepared breakfast. Dining in the relaxed atmosphere of the lodge hosted by Ian is an experience that must not be missed. Finally, there’s always the option to enhance your wellbeing with yoga lessons or massages available upon request. Visit the heated swimming pool to take a dip, or have a leisurely match on the tennis court. This is the ultimate Tasman retreat – a magical place you leave wishing you could stay forever.

DONKEY BAY INN Russell, Bay of Islands, New Zealand

An eccentric masterpiece, overlooking one of the globeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most dramatic coastlines

4 ROOMS OUTDOOR HOT TUBS NATURIST BEACH LIBRARY HELIPAD OCEAN VIEWS CAR PARKING NO CHILDREN

DONKEY BAY INN, 38 LONG BEACH RD, RUSSELL 0202, NEW ZEALAND +64 27 240 9109 | ENQUIRIES@DONKEYBAYINN.CO.NZ | WWW.DONKEYBAYINN.CO.NZ BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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taying at Donkey Bay Inn, the horizon truly beckons. When pinned at these kind of geographic coordinates, it’s easy to feel as if you’re gazing out over the end of the world, with only seas and skies for company. Nestled on a gated peninsula within the magnetic coastline of New Zealand’s North Island, any other hotel might seem dominated by the majesty of its surroundings – but Donkey Bay Inn’s myriad charms simply refuse to be overshadowed, even by Mother Nature herself. Guests arrive by car into the private grounds through a dramatic pair of ‘Golden Gates’, marking a turning-off point into an eccentric new world. A canary-yellow tunnelled walkway, dreamed up so that owner Antonio Pasquale’s young daughters could imagine themselves as Alice discovering Wonderland, gives way into a lush courtyard framing a huge timber structure. This experience sets the scene for the hotel’s offbeat spirit, characterised by unexpected contrasts – throughout the property and gardens you’ll find a harmonious blend of wide, welcoming spaces and vividly decorated little nooks. Interiors reflect the hotel’s welcomingly idiosyncratic take on the conventions of luxury hospitality. Upon

being given a house tour by the warm, down-to-earth manager Amelia, the visitor will be privy to a visual feast of kaleidoscopically eclectic elements – keep your eye out for a collaged art print of Princess Margaret on water skis featuring a pink floral bathing cap, a metre-high gold Jesus statue, and a magnificently fan-tailed taxidermied peacock. The light and breezy library offers the perfect spot for a moment of calm, while the opulent bar area leads out onto the deck with its spectacular views across the bay. Donkey Bay Inn’s rooms and suites continue to channel a feeling of relaxed, unfettered fun. In the Skyfall suite, a delicious four-poster bed is flanked by floor-to-ceiling mirrors, with a vast ensuite centred around the room’s real show-stopper – a dramatically oversized stone tile bath that practically begs to be tried out. Each morning a sun-drenched continental breakfast is served downstairs. You’ll find yourself at risk of grazing for hours, sipping coffee and chatting to Antonio and Amelia. As the morning sun creeps over the distant hills, guests will truly appreciate the uniqueness of this coastal setting. Enrapturing from every angle and elevation, the ocean vista is framed on each side by a perfect complement of BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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native bush, beach and sky. The hotel has two beautiful sandy shores within walking distance – one of which, a naturist beach, offers the perfect place to “brown your bum” (in the immortal words of owner Antonio), while the bar’s magnificent patio is just the place to enjoy a glass of local wine while the setting sun bruises across the sky. If you get itchy feet, the eateries, art galleries and boutiques of the historic town of Russell are just a short stroll away. The hotel and grounds were designed by maritime architect Gary Underwood, its eco-conscious layout fluidly complementing the local flora and fauna of its surroundings. It was originally built as a family home for Italian winemaker Antonio Pasquale and his family, who gradually opened it up as an inn to be shared after his children left one by one for university. A walk around the grounds reveals that Donkey Bay Inn is completely off-grid, its needs met by the twin natural elements of wind and solar power. The building itself is insulated by a dense living roof of native plants, adding an extra dimension of lushness and freshness. A feeling of true harmony and integration within the landscape proliferates – there’s even a vineyard, a vegetable garden, olive groves and beehives located on the property.

AGA REEF RESORT Upolu, Samoa

A luxurious hideaway in a South Pacific island paradise

10 VILLAS RESTAURANT POOL DAY SPA SNORKELING BAR STRIKING VIEWS

AGA REEF RESORT, SOUTH EAST COAST ROAD, LALOMANU, SAMOA +685 47800 | OFFICE@AGAREEFRESORT.COM | WWW.AGAREEFRESORT.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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s the Scottish travel-writer and island-lover (and former resident of Samoa) Robert Louis Stevenson once said: “I travel not to go anywhere but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.” This is the reason that many of us regularly find ourselves with itchy feet, plotting out the next adventure – but when it comes to visiting Samoa, this objective is gilded with the additional benefit of finding oneself in one of the most beautiful island settings on earth. Located in Lalomanu, on the south eastern shore of the Samoan island of Upolu, lies the Aga Reef Resort – 10 waterfront villas set around a beautiful lagoon, with a manmade island that protects a brightly-coloured coral reef universe teeming beneath the water’s surface. This resort was built as a labour of love by its owner, Apete – he was driven to fulfil his father’s vision to create a relaxing retreat where marine life could

flourish, and people from all over the world could visit to experience the beauty of Lalomanu. Set with tropical jungle between glittering waters on one side and a dramatic cliff backdrop on the other, the Aga Reef Resort combines all the benefits of a natural paradise without compromising one drop of luxury or hospitality. Built to fit harmoniously into its coral lagoon environment, the waterfront position of the resort lends itself perfectly to kayaking and snorkelling – not much beats grabbing a snorkel and flippers from reception and jumping into the water directly from your villa. An onsite restaurant is warm and welcoming, with both al fresco and covered sections. Happy Hour occurs daily, providing the perfect excuse to sip your ‘niu’ (young coconut) on the deck while overlooking the infinity pool to the ocean beyond. Staying true to BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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Apete’s father’s vision, the resort offers an excellent position for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Lalomanu – after a tropical downpour, guests are treated to views from their waterfront balconies of a majestic waterfall cascading down the rocky cliff face into the jungle that rises behind the resort. Getting further afield isn’t hard – the resort offers shuttles to local interest sites such as the To Sua ocean trench, Lalomanu beach, and several nearby waterfalls. If you’d rather get out and explore solo, staff will be able to help with recommendations and directions, and there are bikes available to borrow. The city of Apia is an easy day-trip away, with its great markets and a museum which is Robert Louis Stevenson’s former home, and has some decent options in the way of nightlife – that is, if you can bear to tear yourself away from the lush serenity of the Aga Reef Resort.

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GREEN SPA RESORT STANGLWIRT Wilder Kaiser, Austria

Re-charge your batteries at this luxury Alpine eco-resort perfectly in-sync with the surrounding nature

5 SUITES 3 STUDIOS FAMILY ROOMS POOL SPA RESTAURANT STUNNING VIEWS BAR CAR PARKING WEDDINGS FITNESS CENTRE/GYM

GREEN SPA RESORT STANGLWIRT, KAISERWEG 1A-6353 GOING AM WILDEN KAISER +43 (0) 53 582 000 | ATHOME@STANGLWIRT.COM | WWW.STANGLWIRT.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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amous for its deeply carved valleys and Alpine backdrop, the Kaiser Mountains offer some of the most quietly breath-taking scenery in the Eastern Alps. The southern mountain ridge, the Wilder Kaiser (“wild or fierce emperor”) is formed predominantly of limestone, and it is here at the foot of the mountain that you will find Stanglwirt, an organic farm and five-star luxury wellness resort that has been welcoming guests for over 400 years. Family-run since 1722, the chalet-style hotel offers complete peace and tranquillity, with spectacular, uninterrupted views of the mountain range and Tyrolean hospitality. Each spacious room and suite has been thoughtfully decorated in a traditional rustic style, using high-quality natural materials and finished by hand with traditional building methods. They were built from regional, untreated Arolla pine wood – famed by the locals for its

numerous health benefits, including encouraging good sleep. Contemporary comfort and quality are key here – solid wood furniture, cotton and terry towelling bathrobes and towels, sheep’s wool carpets, and luxuriously soft fine linen quilt covers and sheets. In addition to sheer comfort, there’s one thing guests will find everywhere at Stanglwirt: water. As well as a 25-meter competition standard swimming pool, there’s also a saltwater pool, a natural swimming lake, a rock pool, a waterfall grotto, and a children’s water world complete with a 120-meter-long water slide and pool cinema. Stanglwirt is a global pioneer in ecofriendly hotel practices, with sustainability at its core. All alterations or new building works are in accordance with their high ecological standards, with lime mortar and wood used in place of cement and steel. Additionally, the entire water supply BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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for their wellness complex and the hotel’s drinking water comes from their own spring. The same water is also used as an energy source for much of the hotel. The majority of the ingredients for the refined Tyrolean fare served in their excellent restaurant – including meat, fish, milk products and bread – come from their onsite 100 hectare organic farm. Activities here are varied and plentiful. Enjoy yoga, a game of tennis or golf, or a horseback ride in the valley. The nature of the local area begs to be explored, with a wide variety of breath-taking scenic hikes and treks. But be sure to leave some time for a visit to the 5* spa, where guests may indulge in a generous range of treatments from Ayurvedic massages to a whey bath or Cleopatra facial. Championing a holistic, overall feeling of wellbeing for body, mind, and soul, the results will continue to be felt long after you’ve arrived home.

RELAIS & CHATEAUX HOTEL HERITAGE Bruges, Belgium

This magnificent Flemish mansion in the centre of one of Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most engaging cities is a monument to style, class, and the highest levels of hospitality

22 ROOMS BAR BOSE SYSTEM IN ROOM iPAD RESTAURANT SAUNA STEAM BATH

RELAIS & CHATEAUX HOTEL HERITAGE, NIKLAAS DESPARSSTRAAT 11, 8000 BRUGES, BELGIUM +32 50 444 444 | MANAGER@HOTEL-HERITAGE.COM | WWW.HOTEL-HERITAGE.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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esigned in 1869 by Louis Delacenserie, a well-known native of Bruges, the building was bought and converted by Johan and Isabelle Creytens in 1992 and reopened as a hotel the following summer. As a Relais & Châteaux property, Hotel Heritage is compelled to live up to some formidable standards and expectations, and over the last two decades has garnered a stirring reputation and a clutch of global awards. Evaluated according to the France-based elite hotel’s association’s traditional motto of ‘Caractère, Courtoisie, Calme, Charme et Cuisine’, there are a number of strict admission standards to adhere to. Most properties are converted historic landmarks such as manor houses, townhouses and castles, and in addition to luxurious facilities and gold-standard service, associates are obliged to offer certain special features to help distinguish them from their chain-run counterparts. Opulently appointed with intricate chandeliers, antique furniture and rich,

indulgent décor, Hotel Heritage’s 22 bedrooms vary in size but not on service, facilities, or amenities. Equipped with Nilson queen-size or twin beds, marble bathrooms, individual temperature controls, and Nespresso coffee machines, the rooms and suites are positioned to make the most of the panoramic cityscapes. With views of Bruges and many of its instantly recognisable landmarks, the Junior Suites are spacious and exceptional in their attention to detail. And with a range of special touches including a sundeck, private sauna, steam bath, and guided walking tours of the city, there is plenty to make guests feel special. Meanwhile, selected VIP amenities are also available by arrangement: from massages, luxury picnics and limousines, to valet parking, babysitting and even hot air balloon rides. When it comes to refreshment, on the other hand, it is no secret that Belgium is home to some of the most heavenly, magnificent food and drink BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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on the planet, and Hotel Heritage does little to dispel this reputation. The inhouse restaurant, Le Mystique, serves local Belgian and Flanders specialities including Duroc bacon, codfish, venison and, yes, an exceptional range of chocolate and patisserie items. And with a wine list featuring classic and contemporary labels from Continental Europe, it does not take long to warm to this place. Indeed, with its central location in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site, the so-called Venice of the North, Hotel Heritage serves as an authentic Flemish escape from the hectic streets and tourist hotspots of this famously medieval city. And as with its Relais & Châteaux contemporaries around the world, every guest is guaranteed exceptional service, lavishly appointed accommodation and ethereally fine cuisine. In fact, the one characteristic these 500-odd independent hotels have in common, somewhat paradoxically, is that they are all utterly unique.

MEET THE VISIONARIES

JOHAN AND ISABELLE CREYTENS Meeting for the first time in 1991, project manager Johan and English teacher Isabelle Creytens shared a dream of running their own business. Spotting and later purchasing a desolate but utterly captivating property in the city centre, the newlyweds set about transforming it into a boutique hotel. Assisted by a committed tribe of craftsmen, plumbers, electricians and stone masons, they reopened the 19thcentury mansion as a three-star Hansa Hotel in August 1993. With no previous experience in hospitality, both Johan and Isabelle proceeded to juggle a series of educational courses with the care of their three young children and the day-to-day running of their growing enterprise. Embracing modern technology and changing the name to Hotel Heritage along the way, they have over the last two decades succeeded in turning this historic building into an iconic urban retreat.

BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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CAVE HOTEL & GOLF RESORT Kent, England

A combination of primal and cutting-edge comforts at a lush golf resort in the heart of Kent

3 ROOMS 4 SUITES GOLF COURSE SWIMMING POOL JACUZZI FITNESS SUITE BAR RESTAURANT CHAUFFEUR SERVICE WEDDINGS

CAVE HOTEL & GOLF RESORT, BRICKFIELD LN, BOUGHTON-UNDER-BLEAN, FAVERSHAM ME13 9AJ +441227 752277 | ENQUIRIES@CAVEHOTELS.COM | WWW.CAVEHOTELS.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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he Cave Hotel & Golf Resort is aptly named – warm, welcoming and snug, this is no hole in the mountain but a well-furnished and inviting respite from the outside world. The furnishings, lighting, decor and materials have all been carefully considered when designing the Cave hotel; nodding to a world of organic and natural inspirations, tempered with a powerful knack for subtle modern luxury. Stained wood-panelled walls and soft warm lighting lend a feeling of comfort and safety, while faux fur throws and crisp white linens complete the elevated, caveman-chic feel. One of the hotel’s key highlights is its excellent golf course – set in the picturesque Kent countryside, the 6,591yard course is sure to challenge and delight even the seasoned golfer. This resort holds an ambitious vision for the future. Hoping to offer everything

from bespoke golf holidays to executive escapes and large wedding celebrations, the Cave is home to highlights such as a saline hydrotherapy pool and a 12-seater jacuzzi with panoramic views over the green. Kent has been known as “the garden of England” for over 400 years thanks to its rich bounty of food and drink – orchards, strawberry fields, oast houses for drying hops, tender lamb, herb gardens, fresh fish from 350 miles of coastline. It’s no wonder then that a high-point for guests is the menu in the Firepit Restaurant. The food is a fusion of earthy local comfort and world cuisine, with simple yet striking and multilayered flavours drawn from across the county all the way to Far-East Asia. The cauliflower with goats cheese and masala sauce is delicious – and the wonderfully retro dessert Baked Alaska has given a BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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well-deserved new lease of life within the world of modern cuisine. Impressive golf course and spa aside, there’s plenty to see and do in the local area. The seaside is under half an hour away by car, offering up delicious seafood in Whitstable and art gallery chic in Margate. People have been making pilgrimages to Canterbury for the last thousand years, and it’s still worth the trip. Make the 15-minute journey to discover the historic town’s UNESCO-listed cathedral, medieval alleyways and ancient city walls. The staff here are enthusiastic to deliver, ensuring that guests always feel welcome and their comfort is put first. Some are experienced and have worked many years in the hospitality trade, whilst others are new to the industry but share the passion for providing excellence. This impressive hotel has all the makings of something truly special.

ATX INTERIOR THE WORLD IN YOUR EYES

ARCTIC LIGHT HOTEL Rovaniemi, Finland

A cosy and historic family-owned hotel in the heart of otherworldly Lapland-Rovaniemi

57 SUITES RESTAURANT BAR TERRACE CONCIERGE TESLA CHARGING CAR RENTAL BABYSITTING SERVICES

ARCTIC LIGHT HOTEL, VALTAKATU 18, 96200 ROVANIEMI, FINLAND +358 20 1710100 | HOTEL@ARCTICLIGHTHOTEL.FI | WWW.ARCTICLIGHTHOTEL.FI BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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Finnish town located firmly within the chilly embrace of the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is truly one of a kind. Considered the official home of the big man in red, Santa Claus himself, Rovaniemi was badly bombed during the 1940s, with almost 90% of its buildings totally destroyed. A new plan for the town’s layout was created by Finnish design mastermind Alvar Aalto, with the major streets formed into an aerial view of a reindeer’s head and antlers – the local football stadium forms its eye. This is a town bursting with history and personality, which also acts as the main gateway to the magical scenery of Finnish Lapland. The family-owned Arctic Light Hotel is housed within the 1950s structure of the former New City Hall of Rovaniemi, designed by local architect Ferdinand Salokangas in a contemporary functionalist style. A listed building, the hotel was extensively refurbished in 2013 but retains many of the original features –

such as rare lighting fixtures from Paavo Tynell, and beautiful wooden inlay doors. Home to 57 spacious and well-equipped suites and rooms, the Arctic Light Hotel offers a luxuriously cosy base from which to explore all the spectacular sights of the Arctic Circle. The hotel combines traditional Lappish heritage and folkloric elements with ultra-chic modern styling for the ultimate in urban Arctic appeal. Rooms feature atmospheric touches such as faux fur throws and starry lighting, to reflect the beauty of the local surroundings and culture. Located in the heart of Rovaniemi, it is conveniently placed to see the town’s many sights – the excellent Arktikum museum and Arctic Science Centre are both 15 minutes’ walk. Santa’s Village, with its hard-working elves and festive post office, is located 15 minutes’ drive from the centre of town. It’s not all about Santa – the region’s unique natural beauty is a key draw for BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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most guests. Proud to boast the cleanest air in Europe, Rovaniemi is the final stop in the Arctic Circle before reaching the North Cape, with a wide variety of activities throughout the year. Catch the Aurora Borealis (or Northern Lights) while mushing a husky sled through the snow in winter, or take a canoe out on the river under the midnight sun during summertime. Visit the fells and wilds of Pallas National Park to experience the spellbinding majesty of the region while hiking or skiing. The hotel offers the perfect antidote to a long day out in the cold exploring, with its on-site Arctic Restaurant. Taking cues from traditional Arctic cuisine, the chefs use fresh local ingredients prepared in the most classic ways – from salmon and king crab to reindeer, lamb and willow grouse. After supper, guests can head over to Plan B, the hotel’s cocktail bar. Located in the glass-fronted terrace, this is a cosy spot to enjoy a warming beverage.

ABOUT HAPAG-LLOYD CRUISES Dating back to 1890, Albert Ballin – Founder of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises - decided to send a passenger ship on an “excursion” to sunnier climates during the winter months, whilst regular transatlantic services were suspended. In 1891, Albert Ballin sent the Augusta Victoria passenger ship to warmer waters on the firstever “pleasure cruise”. The concept of the cruise was born; and 128 years after the invention of the cruise, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises continues this tradition of innovation within the cruise market. The Hamburg-based company is now one of the leading cruise providers in the luxury and expedition sector.

The ships of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises are outstanding in their class: offering pure luxury, the EUROPA and EUROPA 2 are the only ships worldwide to have received the Berlitz Cruise Guide’s highest distinction – 5-stars-plus.

EUROPA 2 This modern, luxury ship has eleven decks and 251 suites with a maximum capacity of 500 passengers and provides the greatest space per passenger on a cruise ship. The company has consciously moved away from cruise traditions such as the captain’s dinner. The ship features exclusively suites with verandas and a minimum area of 35m² (376 ft²). The range of accommodation also includes Grand Ocean and Penthouse Suites, as well as Family Apartments. Seven restaurants – including an Asian Restaurant, Elements - and six bars offer culinary diversity and a range of entertainment. A large wellness and spa area and various sport and health-oriented options accommodate the trend for active holidays and well-being. On the EUROPA 2, innovative entertainment replaces the more traditional options. The contemporary, spacious design and the informal atmosphere with international flair convey a feeling of relaxed elegance. With seven-day Mediterranean cruises in the summer months that can be combined and 13 to 20-day cruise combinations that travel to far-flung destinations in the winter, the EUROPA 2 is particularly attuned to the needs of professionals and families looking for a casual holiday at sea in an elegant atmosphere. Equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs, the EUROPA 2 also offers customised landings in smaller ports and secluded bays off the beaten track. Enjoy the highest level of casual luxury coupled with all the promises of a yacht and the serenity of a small resort. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: WWW.HL-CRUISES.COM

OSTRACO SUITES Mykonos, Greece

An elegant and relaxed Cycladic hideaway, close to the bright lights of central Mykonos

22 ROOMS RESTAURANT BAR STUNNING VIEWS SWIMMING POOL YOGA VALET CAR HIRE WEDDINGS

OSTRACO SUITES, DRAFAKI, MIKONOS 846 00, GREECE +30 2289 023396 | INFO@OSTRACO.GR | WWW.OSTRACO.GR BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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s every Cycladic island lover worth their salt knows, there are two sides to Mykonos. One is the vibrant hubbub of its famous nightlife scene – the bustling streets of pretty Mykonos Town with its parade of shops, cafes and bars, and the almost 24-hour party spirit of Super Paradise beach. The other side of the island’s character is less obvious, but no less beguiling – a haven of winding roads that take you to small villages with tavernas selling delicious grilled sardines, hillsides dotted with traditional whitewashed homes that glisten in the sun, and a myriad of small beaches fronting the translucent Aegean Sea. Here, visitors will find a little slice of heavenly tranquillity, set apart from the excesses of the night before. The Ostraco Suites offers you access to the best of both worlds – ideally located just a 10-minute walk from the centre of Mykonos Town,

it is nevertheless far enough away from the pulse of music and lights to provide a sense of pure peace and serenity. Built in the ‘80s but extensively renovated in 2017, the hotel has an ultra-sleek aesthetic that translates the timeless beauty of traditional Greek island architecture into a contemporary haven of curved lines and smooth stone. Curved pathways through the grounds are lined with flourishing local flora, curating a gestural flow of spaciousness and calm. The rooms reflect the traditional Mykonian architecture through a contemporary lens, all pristine white walls and furnishings. Invitingly luxurious bathrooms formed of arching, recessed concrete and stone, reminiscent of a micro modern art gallery. Hidden away in the shade of the Ostraco Suites’ garden is a human-size chess set, along with two private Greek Orthodox chapels – perfect for a little quiet contemplation. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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The Ostraco chef is deeply passionate about fish and seafood, and it shows – a sumptuous platter is prepared with succulent sea bass, tempura prawns in a signature wrap and langoustini set on a bed of local vegetables, perfectly sautéed in olive oil. Wines and champagnes are carefully selected to complement the fresh flavours of the region’s natural offerings – a bounty of flavour to be savoured and delighted over. Several of the hotel’s 22 rooms and suites have their own private balconies and outdoor jacuzzis, and there is also a magnificent large white deco swimming pool framed by Gandia Blasco sun beds – the perfect place to relax, sip a drink from the extensive bar menu, and marvel at the famous Mykonos sunset. After sundown take the local secret pathway into town, away from the traffic of the main roads, to begin your night’s adventures.

ATHINA LUXURY SUITES Santorini, Greece

A hotel with a sweeping view over the sparkling sea in scenic Santorini, decorated in elegant Augean style

14 SUITES STUNNING VIEWS ROOFTOP POOL 24-HOUR CONCIERGE SPA SERVICES WEDDINGS FITNESS CENTER/GYM BAR RESTAURANT AIRPORT SHUTTLE

ATHINA LUXURY SUITES, FIRA, THIRA 847 00, GREECE +30 2 28 602 4910 | INFO@ATHINASUITES.COM | WWW.ATHINASUITES.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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ome destinations grow on you, their subtle appeal gradually heightening with each passing day. Santorini is not one of these places – from the moment you step foot onto its dramatic volcanic stone and take in the iconic whitewashed villas, it’s hard not to fall immediately in love. Formed by ancient volcanic activity into a theatrical confection of clifftops and caldera, this island setting is the perfect place for indulging in some luxurious sun, sea, and relaxation. Nestled on the clifftop of the island’s capital, Fira, Athina Suites embodies the laidback luxury of good Grecian living. The hotel’s prime position just below the herd means incredible, uninterrupted views out over the volcano and across the Aegean Sea, offering guests a front-row seat to some of the very finest sunsets

the heavens have to offer. It is set apart from the bulk of the town, down prettily winding cobbled steps that complement the islands’ striking Cycladic architecture. Fira is known by locals and visitors alike as one of the best spots from which to watch the sunset – blazing displays of orange, violet and candy floss pink skies are a regular occurrence, although they never get any less magical. With its luxe interiors of rustic flagstone and gleaming white walls, Athina Suites blends perfectly into this opulent setting. The hotel features a rooftop pool with sprawling double loungers, along with a well-stocked bar to provide the perfect sundowner tipple. Some suites come with a private jacuzzi and plunge pool, for added romantic seclusion. It’s possible to arrange a private candlelit dinner for two in a secluded BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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rooftop spot, complete with fresh flowers and a full Mediterranean menu from the hotel’s restaurant Esperisma. Breakfast is cooked to order and served daily on the terrace to set you up for a day of exploring, while Fira, with its wealth of cafes and restaurants, is only a few minutes’ walk up the cobbled streets. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to get out and see the rest of the island too – head north up the coast to picture perfect Oia for an afternoon’s adventure, or drive down south to Akrotiri to discover the remains of an ancient Minoan city, buried in a volcanic eruption in 1613 and only discovered in 1967. Then there’s always that rooftop pool to lie by. Whether you’re here to celebrate, relax or seek creative entheos (divine inspiration), Athina is a gem that shouldn’t be missed.

BREAKWATER VILLA Lake Como, Italy

A unique, waterfront villa set on the glistening glamour of Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s idyllic Lake Como

3 SUITES 4 BEDROOMS POOL ROOFTOP STUNNING VIEWS WI-FI FITNESS CENTRE/GYM SPA PARKING

BREAKWATER VILLA, VIA REGINA 32, 22011 GRIANTE, LAKE COMO +39 3 88 408 2121 | CONCIERGE@BREAKWATERCOMO.COM | WWW.BREAKWATERCOMO.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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et against the foothills of the Alps, the upscale resort area of Lake Como, in Northern Italy’s Lombardy region, has long enchanted artists, musicians, royalty, world leaders, and Hollywood stars. From French novelist Flaubert and Italian opera composer Vincenzo Bellini, to British Prime Minister Winston Churchill who famously said of Como, “An air of complete tranquillity and good humour pervades these beautiful lakes and valleys”, its tranquil cobalt-blue waters have forever been a place to retreat. The exclusive Breakwater Villa has a unique waterfront position on the lake, facing the picturesque, terracotta-roofed town of Bellagio. The villa is completely hidden, making it the perfect hideaway for guests looking for a discreet holiday in a breath-taking environment. The property itself dates back to 1922, where it was once a family-owned boatyard, and the typical characteristics of the industrial

boatyard have been preserved, making Breakwater truly one of a kind. Featuring only premium facilities, and state of the art design and technology, it’s the ideal location for up to fourteen discerning guests to enjoy the Italian ‘dolce vita’. The expansive luxury residence, spanning 1,900 square metres, boasts an impressive array of facilities both indoors and outdoors, paired with incredible views over the mesmerising Lake Como. Boasting a lakeside heated swimming pool, deluxe spa facilities, ample decked terrace on both the ground and first floors, as well as several al fresco dining and seating areas, the villa is perfect for hosting an event or celebration. It even has a private docking space - convenient for guests who wish to hire a boat during their stay. With glorious panoramic views of the lake, and an almost rustic feel to the villa, Breakwater features a neutral BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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colour scheme, with wooden, earthy tones merging perfectly with the landscape. In the 3 Suites and 4 luxuriously appointed double bedrooms, a grey and white colour scheme is maintained, giving this magnificent villa an industrial minimalist edge with a home-away-from-home feel. Contemporary design, modern amenities, state of the art bathrooms, and perfectly selected art works and furniture ensure that guests feel completely at ease in a villa full of charm and character. Breakwater offer guests the opportunity to upgrade their visit with optional services from their discreet and friendly concierge and client team, who will gladly arrange cooking and serving, additional airport transfers, transport, vehicle rentals, yacht charters, child care, massage and beauty treatments, sport and leisure activities, and reservations, to ensure the most effortless and memorable stay.

BOUTIQUE HOTEL VILLA SOSTAGA Lake Garda, Italy

A warm family welcome at a grand 18th century villa, perched on the cusp of the glittering Lake Garda

8 ROOMS 11 SUITES BAR RESTAURANT SWIMMING POOL STUNNING VIEWS PET FRIENDLY CAR PARKING AIRPORT TRANSFER WEDDINGS

BOUTIQUE HOTEL VILLA SOSTAGA, VIA SOSTAGA, 19, 25084 GARGNANO BS, ITALY +39 0365 791218 | INFO@VILLASOSTAGA.IT | WWW.VILLASOSTAGA.IT BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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he largest lake in the country, Garda is surrounded by a huge natural basin formed by the undulating hillsides of northern Italy. This region delights with its rugged scenery and proliferation of lush Mediterranean vegetation – oleander, magnolia and palm trees thrive on its sun-dappled shores. Combined with an easy-going local approach to life and the excellent gastronomical delights to be sought here, Lake Garda really does capture the essence of la dolce vita. Villa Sostaga effortlessly epitomises this attitude – where the finer things are enjoyed within the natural and easy rhythm of the day, free from all sense of rush or hassle. Nestled in the hillside above the water, the boutique hotel is owned and run by Gabriella and Gabriele Seresina, who left distinguished careers in fashion and motor racing to carefully renovate the 250-year-old villa into a magnificent hotel, after renting it back in 2004. A true family affair, the couple’s son Francesco hopes to continue the legacy of Villa Sostaga within the new generation for years to come. Home to eight rooms and 11 junior suites (three of which come equipped with their own private terraces), Villa Sostaga is a peaceful and yet utterly opulent setting to sit and watch the world go by, offering magnificent views through the villa’s private 4,000 square metre park to the shimmering waters of the lake beyond. The Seresinas have poured the utmost care into maintaining the ancient splendour of the property – as a result, Villa Sostaga doesn’t feel like a hotel, but rather like entering into a luxurious country home. The heart of the villa isn’t built with modern materials – the 250-year-old foundations automatically evoke the grandeur of its history. With roots tracing back to the famous Count Giuseppe

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Feltrinelli, to family culinary connections with the unforgotten poet Gabriele D’Annunzio, Villa Sostaga is a setting that is rich in art and culture to its very bones. Interiors channel the essence of timelessness and style, thanks to the professional eye of Gabriella Seresina. This region has been inspiring poets, artists and romantics for centuries, and visitors will soon see why. Dotted with picturesque and charming little towns to discover, the scenery hides gems of ancient fortifications, winding village streets and fragrant groves. Villa Sostaga is just a

short and scenic stroll from the port town of Gargnano, where D. H. Lawrence wrote of Garda: “The waters of this lake are the loveliest colour imaginable: purple in the shade and emerald green when they break on the white rocks.” Here you can treat yourself to a vegan gelato in the piazza, or perhaps charter a boat to explore other parts of the grand lake. The villa is a place of ultimate serenity, where each morning brings spectacular sunrises, birds chirping and the song of the bells chiming from the church towers below. Breakfast can be enjoyed on the BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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patio, while taking in the scenery, followed by a dip in the beautiful open-air pool or a fortifying Ayurveda massage at the on-site spa. The villa’s elegant restaurant serves the delicious recipes of Grandmother Martina, who served as the personal cook of the poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. With the breath-taking views of the surrounding mountain landscapes, carpeted by the vastness of Lake Garda, it’s easy to see why guests keep coming back to this magical place – here time slows down, and serenity and pleasure reign.

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TENUTA MONTEMAGNO RELAIS & WINE Monteferrato, Italy

A wistful 16th Century farmhouse boasting tranquillity, luxury, and character in Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world-famous vineyards

16 ROOMS POOL BAR RESTAURANT SPA CAR PARKING WEDDINGS ROOFTOP STUNNING VIEWS

TENUTA MONTEMAGNO RELAIS & WINE, VIA CASCINA VALFOSSATO, 9 MONTEMAGNO, ASTI 14030, ITALY +39 014 163 624 | INFO@TENUTAMONTEMAGNO.IT | WWW.TMRELAIS.IT BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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et in the picturesque Monferrato hills, Tenuta Montemagno was once a noble residence. Nestled into the hills, this remarkable boutique hotel and winery is surrounded by villages, medieval castles, rolling hills, sunflower fields, hazelnut orchards, and vineyards. Dating back to 1563, the historic farmhouse has many of its original features such as vaulted ceilings, wooden beams, and parquet floors. On a clear day, once the morning mist has cleared, the hills open up to reveal the snow-capped mountains in the distance. The views are simply sublime, and the beautiful terrace area with its salt-water infinity pool provides the perfect spot to enjoy the sight of the rolling vineyards and colourful hills of the valley. Inside the hotel, the natural colours, sunflower decorations, grape carvings, and

lavender infused pillows bring the outside world in, helping guests feel relaxed and close to nature. The 16 bedrooms are decorated in a rustic but chic farmhouse style, with neutral colours and wrought iron carved beds. Floor to ceiling windows open out to private balconies with magnificent views of the hillside and striking Alpine mountains in the distance. The area is rich in winemaking, and grapes at Tenuta Montemagno winery are handpicked. Additionally, native yeast is used and efforts are made to use low levels of sulphates. Their philosophy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; produce fewer, but more interesting wines while respecting and protecting the land. The Tenuta Montemagno restaurant sits atop the hill that gives its name to the hotel. The restaurant takes its inspiration from the region, approaching it with BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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a contemporary twist to create recipes that bring out the best of the traditional, high-quality, local produce. Seasonal and innovative, each dish is perfectly paired with Tenutaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outstanding wine-list, many of which are of course made at their own winery. There is a wellness room and spa with a sauna and treatments available â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perfect for re-charging your batteries after a day spent exploring the vineyards and castles of Monferrato. If you can tear your eyes away from the scenery, the friendly staff can recommend the route for a whirl on an electric bike, or stroll through the historic village nearby. However, no one will argue if you resolve to spend your entire time at Tenuta Montemagno lying by the pool, gazing at the picturesque hills with a glass of Tenuta wine in hand.

MASSERIA SUSAFA Palermo, Italy

A serene farmhouse escape, deep in the pastoral wilds of Sicily

5 SUITES 14 ROOMS POOL OLIVE OIL GROVE BEAUTIFUL VIEWS RESTAURANT

MASSERIA SUSAFA, CONTRADA SUSAFA, 90028 POLIZZI GENEROSA PA, ITALY +39 3 38 960 8713 | INFO@SUSAFA.COM | WWW.SUSAFA.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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icily has been casting its spell on poets and artists for many centuries – it is mentioned in both Homer’s Odyssey and Virgil’s Aeneid, with its natural beauty (praised rapturously in both) enduring magnificently to this day. As the English writer D. H. Lawrence once explained, “anyone who has once known this land can never be quite free from the nostalgia for it.” The diverse, dazzling landscape and incredible depth of regional history gets right into your soul – and it is here, hidden away in the rolling bucolic landscape, where the boutique farmhouse hotel Masseria Susafa lies. The hotel is the passion project of the Saeli-Rizzuto family, a clan of fifthgeneration farmers who are very proud to continue and evolve the rural traditions of the region in the present day. There are just five guest suites on the property, each decorated with an emphasis on cool,

elegant Sicilian style. The majority of these rooms feature a set of French doors leading out onto the terrace, highlighting Susafa’s fluid interplay between nature and design. A beautiful open-air swimming pool offers spectacular views across the groves, hills and valleys of the local landscape – the ideal spot for a cooling dip under the hot Sicilian sun. Sicilian cuisine has as venerable and distinguished a history as any other on earth. The island has long been known by the nickname ‘God’s larder’ for its abundance of ripe, colourful produce of all descriptions – this is a mantle that Masseria Susafa wears with a great deal of pride. Plenty of the produce served up in the hotel’s restaurant, a stone-walled exgranary, is grown on-site, and dishes often feature seasonal herbs and greens such as wild fennel, spinach and chard. Flavour is a vital aspect of life here – bread is always BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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homemade and olive oil comes courtesy of their award-winning, organic supply of “green gold” created on the Susafa estate. Susafa’s orchard cultivates native mountainous species of apples, while the excellent wine cellar boasts a variety of the region’s best names and vintages. Despite its peacefully remote location, Masseria Susafa remains relatively wellconnected for those wishing to explore the ancient sights that the island has to offer. The cities of Catania in the east and Palermo in the north-west (along with their respective airports) are each around a 1.5 hour drive, as is the outstandingly beautiful medieval seaside town of Cefalù, located just on the other side of the island’s huge Parco delle Madonie. The hotel staff are happy to help guests organise hikes and horse riding in the park, along with olive harvest excursions (in OctoberNovember) and cooking classes.

CASTELLO DI VICARELLO Tuscany, Italy

A rambling 12th century castle estate hidden in the hillsides of magical, shimmering Tuscany

7 SUITES, 1 ROOM STUNNING VIEWS HELIPAD POOL WEDDINGS BUTLER SERVICE AIRPORT SHUTTLE CAR PARKING RESTAURANT SPA

CASTELLO DI VICARELLO, VIA VICARELLO, 1, 58044 POGGI DEL SASSO GR, ITALY +39 0 56 499 0447 | INFO@VICARELLO.IT | WWW.CASTELLODIVICARELLO.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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he great Russian poet Anna Akhmatova said it best, with her proclamation that “Italy is a dream that keeps returning for the rest of your life.” A landscape of misty mornings and cypress trees, rocky shores and sparkling seas that feels like the Platonic ideal of holidays, Tuscany has a magic about it that can’t help but enchant even the most jetlagged and world-weary traveller. Here lies Castello di Vicarello – a 40-hectare, 12th century fairy-tale castle nestled high above the world in the hillsides of Cingiano, offering views over the rolling valleys of the Italian coast’s jewel-like Maremma region. The castle lies under the ownership of Aurora and Carlo Baccheschi Berti and their three sons, who have meticulously restored the property into the luxury hotel it is today. Firm believers in la dolce vita, the family have designed the castle’s interior and grounds with a strong ethos

of beauty and serenity in mind. The estate produces its own award winning wines (5 grapes from Bibenda, the platinum medal at the Decanter (97/100), and the great gold medal at the concourse mondial of Bruxelles), as well as jam, soap and olive oil. The organic on-site garden furnishes the castle’s historic kitchen with fresh and locally sourced produce, all cooked up by Aurora using her own family recipes. The wondrous scent of the garden’s herbs and flowers are a constant presence as you stroll through the grounds – dip into one of the two valley-facing infinity pools and order a pre-supper cocktail, to delight every one of your senses at once. With its seven suites, one room, and cosy yet spacious interiors, Castello di Vicarello is decorated in an elegantly offbeat style that encourages guests to make themselves comfortable – antique paintings, a well-stocked library, huge sunBOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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streamed windows, and even a sweet family photograph or two. Their beautiful al fresco spa offers massages and beauty treatments, with many using ingredients sourced from the castle gardens. Furthermore, the serene setting is put to excellent use by optional calming yoga classes held facing the sun-spangled hills of Maremma. If you’re yearning to explore, you’re in luck – this surrounding hillside offers a wealth of opportunities for getting out and discovering. The hotel arranges wine tasting trips, vineyard tours, cooking classes, and hiking and biking excursions, alongside expert guidance for those interested in truffle hunting and wine harvesting. Striking out alone is easy too – drive an hour for wide sandy beaches at Marina di Alberese or remote, wild coastal beauty Cala di Forno (reachable by a short hike from Marina di Alberese, or a boat from Talamone).

CA MARIA ADELE Venice, Italy

A decadent residence that combines history, elegance and culture, set inside a historic palazzo in the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most romantic city

6 ROOMS 2 SUITES 1 APARTMENT HONESTY BAR IN-ROOM MASSAGES KING-SIZE BEDS MOROCCAN ROOF TERRACE PRIVATE LANDING SPOT

CA MARIA ADELE, SESTIERE DORSODURO, 111, 30123 VENEZIA VE, ITALY +39 041 520 3078 | INFO@CAMARIAADELE.IT | WWW.CAMARIAADELE.IT BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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imed at travellers seeking culture and comfort without the crowds, Ca Maria Adele sits in a prestigious neighbourhood in the Dorsoduro art district, close to St Mark’s Basilica. Heavy in Venetian design, with a noticeable nod to an ancient era, the hotel is a perfect lesson in sympathetic restoration. Sitting beside the imposing Santa Maria della Salute, near San Marco Square, its comprehensive transformation in 2004 has equipped guests with a window to the city’s notoriously wealthy and seductive past. Renovated by brothers Alessio and Nicola through their eponymous interior design brand, Campa Venice, the interior is extravagantly decorated with indulgent damaschi fabrics, African wood furniture, marble fireplaces, and Swarovski crystals. The brothers’ approach to hospitality is warm and all-encompassing, and the hotel’s staff are always on hand to help guests organise everything from restaurant recommendations and bookings to island excursions and personal shoppers. Guests can arrive by either land or water – Ca Maria Adele has its own private mooring, which is just a short hop from the Salute vaporetto stop. Visitors are greeted in a Bohemian entrance hall dominated by a tatami floor, Moresque-style lamps, and 19th-century black-marble fireplaces. Dimly lit by period Murano chandeliers, the route through the corridors to the artisanal bedrooms is soundproofed by heavily laden drapes, adding to the illusion of a journey through Venice in a bygone age – a grown-up, indulgent setting for a romantic getaway. Each with its own distinctive style, the grand bedrooms mix classical aromas, sounds, moods, and even dress codes to recreate the atmosphere of epochs past. Spread over four floors, five of the rooms deserve special mention; exotically themed,

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these individually designed concept suites employ indulgent fabrics, evocative scents, and impeccable décor to escort occupants back into 16th-century Venice. With the fragrance of Bulgarian rose and a rich blood-red brocade adorning the walls, the Doge’s Room invites guests to unwind in old-style opulence, while the Fireplace Room – with an imposing, engraved marble chimney – employs a scented interior to stimulate deep thought and contemplation. Elsewhere, heavily influenced by the culture and architecture of NorthWest Africa, the Moorish Room invites its occupants to surrender their hectic, tech-laden lives, and the Oriental Room demands nothing more than a commitment to quiet reflection and meditation. Inspired by the charm and

romance of the ancient silk route and draped with antique gold, it opens an esoteric door to Venice’s colourful past. Finally, radiating mystique and intrigue, the Black-Orchid-scented La Sala Noire exhibits a dark, hedonistic side, leaving visitors in no doubt that inhibitions should be abandoned at the door. Noire by name, noire by nature. Unsurprisingly, breakfast here is more of an event than a routine. Served either in-room, on the terrace, or in the grand lounge, the lavish menu is occasionally extended onto the Moroccan-inspired terrace which also doubles as the spot for pre-dinner aperitifs and evening nightcaps at the Honesty bar. The hotel’s location in Venice’s Dorsoduro sestiere places it in prime position for guests to discover the city’s finest eateries – head BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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to the cobbled, restaurant-packed street of Calle Lunga San Barnaba for classic Venetian dinner dishes, or hit the local bacari for delicious ciccheti (small bar snacks) by the canalside. Tucked away from the tourist hordes that descend daily onto San Marco, Dorsoduro is still very well-connected for getting around the winding streets and waterways of Venice. Art-lovers will find themselves in heaven here – the magnificent Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a mere 3 minutes’ walk from the hotel, while the Gallerie dell’Accademia (housing Venetian masters such as Titian, Tintoretto and Veronese) is also very close. With a gracious lack of child-friendly facilities and space, Ca Maria Adele provides the perfect retreat for couples seeking a memorable, romantic break.

BYBLOS ART HOTEL Verona, Italy

Romeo and Juliet meet Gilbert and George at this one-of-a-kind Veronese design hotel

59 ROOMS BAR RESTAURANT POOL FITNESS CENTRE SPA GARDENS

BYBLOS ART HOTEL, VIA CEDRARE 78, 37029 CORRUBBIO DI NEGARINE, VERONA, ITALY +39 045 68 55555 | RESERVATION@BYBLOSARTHOTEL.COM | WWW.BYBLOSARTHOTEL.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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est-known by literature-lovers for its Shakespearean associations, fair Verona is a wonderland of starcrossed kitsch and dreamy Renaissance architecture. Visitors to this part of the world will be hard pressed not to have their minds drawn to romance – with the Byblos Art Hotel offering a pictureperfect 21st century update upon this eternal theme. Located in Valpolicella, just 15 minutes’ drive from the city’s old town, the hotel’s spectacular villa setting hides an interior that puts many modern art galleries to shame. The historic Villa Amistà originated in the 16th century, with the current building dating from the 18th. Now it has been reimagined into a magnificent design confection that functions as a liveable, living gallery. Byblos’ hallucinatory setting was cooked up in the genius brain of architect and designer Alessandro Medini. Blending contemporary design icons from the likes of Ettore Sottsass and Philippe Starck with centuries-old antique pieces, he has created a space where plastic and marble can coexist in perfect balance. The hotel has 59 rooms, each decorated to an entirely unique specification – a perfect complement to the masterful eclecticism of the hotel’s restaurant, lounge and bar areas.

Medini’s ‘Revival’ design style, with its imaginative blend of historic, retro and futuristic themes, offers the ideal setting to display the hotel’s dazzlingly impressive permanent art collection. Twin golden Kate Moss sculptures by Marc Quinn guard the entrance, a businessman fashioned from chewing gum hangs in eternal freefall from the lobby ceiling, kaleidoscopically collaged butterflies from Damien Hirst gleam like stained glass. These sit alongside pieces by luminaries such as Marina Abramović, Anish Kapoor, Takeshi Murakami and Cindy Sherman – the hotel offers an art tour, for those with a desire to drink it all in properly. Colourful and engaging though this setting is, the Byblos Art Hotel remains firmly committed to facilitating its guests in the noble twin pursuits of leisure and relaxation. An onsite spa offers a comprehensive array of beauty and wellness treatments to send you home preened and pampered, while a gym offers a way to work off all that delicious gnocchi and Amarone. The outdoor swimming pool (open June-September) is a particular highlight. It is set within the hotel’s evocative gardens, where antique sculptures and fountains crafted from Veronese marble nestle within lush green foliage – a tranquil hideaway whose BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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alcoves and lawns offer a soothing balm for the worries of daily life. The villa’s charms lie in its unexplored elements and hidden nooks – a Proust chair lounging unassumingly in the lobby, animal figures crawling up an outside wall, graffiti designs on a corridor ceiling. Our favourite little secret find was a quiet walkway above the Giardino d’Inverno pool restaurant. Equipped with a hot tub and sunloungers, it is perfect for those looking for a little romantic isolation. The onsite Amistà Restaurant offers regional and international dishes, made with vegetables grown organically in the hotel garden, while a beautiful 15th century wine cellar is home to 300 carefully selected labels. If you’d rather get out and about but don’t fancy journeying into town, a rustic little pizza place nearby provides an authentic Italian flavour that’s within walking distance – ask at reception for details. The countryside setting gives Byblos its peaceful getaway appeal, but that doesn’t mean it is isolated. The hotel runs a complimentary shuttle service into Verona, where guests can go to the opera, track down the Capulet’s townhouse, or explore the city’s wealth of cocktail bars, taverns and fine dining establishments. This truly is a setting fit for lovers – star-crossed or not.

LOCANDA AL COLLE Versilia, Italy

Escape to a tranquil, family-run former monastery overlooking the Tuscan hills

12 ROOMS OPEN-AIR POOL PRIVATE BEACH ACCESS WHIRLPOOL BAR MASSAGE YOGA BICYCLE TOURS CAR PARKING AIRPORT TRANSFER PET FRIENDLY

LOCANDA AL COLLE, VIA LA STRETTA, 231, 55041 CAMAIORE LU, ITALY +39 0584 915195 | INFO@LOCANDAALCOLLE.IT | WWW.LOCANDAALCOLLE.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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riginally built for the monks of Camaiore in 1706, Locanda al Colle (meaning ‘Inn on the Hill’) is a true haven of sun-dappled, hidden-away serenity. After ceasing to be a monastery, the building eventually became the farmhouse of a Roman family, before it was bought by owner and host Riccardo back in 2000. Great love and care has been poured into this place, and it shows – after an extensive renovation back in 2010, the property was drastically expanded and updated, transformed into a sleek, modern guesthouse that has lost none of its historical appeal or warm, family-run charm. Locanda al Colle manages to seamlessly combine the best of elements of the mountains and the beach. Surrounded by ancient, twisting trees and fragrant olive groves, the air around the property is filled with that uniquely Mediterranean scent of herbs and earth, lavender, sage, and flowering rosemary, all lightly warmed by the Tuscan sun. It is also only ten minutes’ drive from the luxury beach club of

Il Cavallone, with complimentary access and cabanas/gazebos provided for guests. If you don’t feel like venturing all the way down to sea level, you needn’t – there is an excellent open-air salt-water pool on the property, and it’s even heated (ideal for taking an evening dip). From here you can enjoy the views across the rolling scenery while you float – bliss. Inside the guesthouse, there are two open kitchens. One has an extensive wine selection, and the other is piled with delicious freshly-made pastries and biscotti, alongside a centrepiece table groaning with fresh fruit that looks like it was transported directly out of a Renaissance painting. The on-site chef can whip up meals outside of set times if requested, like pasta with fresh tomatoes from Nonna’s garden. They also craft painstakingly beautiful familystyle dinners served either all together out on the patio, or in a more romantic and secluded dinner for two, three times a week on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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Despite the authentically rustic old-country feel, Locanda al Colle is equipped with an array of sleek, modern conveniences, complete with nice touches such as chargers hidden within the shrubbery of the poolside and Bluetooth connectivity in the shower room. The activities organised by the hotel are diverse and varied, with options including in-house cooking lessons, yoga, massages and more. Riccardo can even arrange for a cobbler to visit and design you your very own pair of handmade local shoes, should you wish, or for little ones to get an on-site papier-mâché mask-making course. If you can drag yourself away, there are plenty of sights to be seen a little further afield too. The staff can organise bike rides, vineyard visits, Carrara marble quarry tours, guided treks, and almost any other kind of trips you can imagine. Getting out to explore on your own is highly recommended – wax poetic in coastal Lerici with a swim in Grotta Byron, or beat your own hiking trail in the scenery around Cinque Terre.

HOTEL TWENTYSEVEN Amsterdam, Netherlands

An opulent and unforgettable sanctuary in the beating heart of Amsterdam

16 SUITES RESTAURANT PRIVATE JACUZZI PRIVATE STEAM ROOM STUNNING VIEWS BUTLER SERVICE FREE WIFI BAR

HOTEL TWENTYSEVEN, DAM 27, 1012 JS AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS +31 202 182 180 | INFO@HOTELTWENTYSEVEN.COM | WWW.HOTELTWENTYSEVEN.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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here’s something about Amsterdam that is different from all the other great European cities. Maybe it’s the flamboyantly varied mixture of cultural offerings on display – the tulip markets and the sex shows, the smokefilled coffee shops and the paintings of the Old Masters, the exquisite Indonesian food and the unbeatable deep-fried bar snacks. As the Dutch photographer and film director Anton Corbijn explains it: “Amsterdam is to Holland what New York is to America […] it’s more extreme, there’s more happening, it’s more liberal and more daring”. This sense of audacity and glamour is an ethos that Hotel TwentySeven certainly channels. Located in Dam Square, in the very crux of the city, this boutique gem features 16 suites within a landmark turreted building. The rooms are ornate and sensuous confections of heavy wood

and thick velvet transport the visitor far from the hustle and bustle of the streets below. Although each of the rooms is unique, every space shares a common aesthetic thread – the hotel interior was curated by the award-winning designer Wim van de Oudeweetering, with carefully selected elements that include handcrafted silk EBRU carpets and immaculate Rubelli fabrics. Rooms are optimised to ensure the utmost relaxation, complete with large and perfectly deep 2-person jacuzzis and steam cabins alongside the rich wood panelling and plump, padded lounge sofas by Ascension Lattore. Suite doors are handmade and 10 centimetres thick, ensuring a true sense of privacy and peace. Every room features a well-stocked minibar complete with a temperaturecontrolled wine selection, hand-picked from Lendl Mijnhijmer, who won best BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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sommelier of The Netherlands 2018, among numerous other awards. The inhouse bar itself is also worth a visit – full of atmospheric sultry corners, it is the perfect place to try one of the hotel’s signature probiotic cocktails or homebrewed pineapple beers. Supper is available at the Restaurant Bougainville, where executive chef Tim Golsteijn draws varied influences from Latin America to the Middle East to craft his epicurean delights. Sommelier Lendl Mijnhijmer is on-hand to help with wine pairings, ensuring a gastronomic experience that would be a shame to miss. However, the scope of Amsterdam’s cuisine is vast and varied – don’t forget to get out and hit a traditional bruin café, or brown bar, for beer, jenever (gin) and bitterballen (a battered beef snack), as a cosy late-night night-cap.

CASAS DE POUSADOURO Baião, Portugal

Understated luxury on the serene, picturesque banks of the Douro river

4 GUEST HOUSES POOL STUNNING VIEWS BUTLER SERVICE RIVER CAR PARKING VINEYARDS

CASAS DE POUSADOURO, STA CRUZ DOURO, BAIÃO, PORTUGAL +35 1 91 701 3896 | CASASDEPOUSADOURO@GMAIL.COM | WWW.CASASDEPOUSADOURO.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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ortugal is a country characterised by its vibrancy – writer Mary McCarthy once mused that “any Portuguese town looks like bride’s finery – something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue.” The Baião region epitomises this dreamy tone, with its smattering of beautiful small towns and rustic hillside scenery. The Casas de Pousadouro lie a little out of the way, a 90-minute train journey from Porto Campanha and then a short transfer from the Azulejos-tiled station of Aregos – or perhaps a boat trip from Porto, for those who prefer the slow and scenic route. Located on the banks of the Douro river are the four Casas de Pousadouro – the poetically-named Rocks, Ruins, Pilot and Yellow House. Each of these spacious casas faces onto the shimmering waters, sleeping 4-6 in a modern setting of wall-to-ceiling windows and subtly luxe

furnishings. This getaway was the passion project of Porto couple Jorge and Isabel Machado, who have been working over the past 17 years to transform and hone the beauty of the guest houses’ setting. The idyllic grounds feature a row of old railway sleepers, punctuated by pockets of orange and fig trees, with a main deck seating area that overlooks the Douro’s lazy journey downstream. There is a firmly Portuguese blend of comfort and style at Pousadouro – you will likely be warmly welcomed with Quinta do Noval reserve port and traditional Cavacas biscuits out on the beautiful deck. Each casa is designed to make the most of the surrounding scenery, with large windows and rich tonal interiors along with its own private deck. Some casas offer a wood-burning stove, making them a good option for an autumn or early-springtime visit. It BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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is possible to order in food and wine from nearby restaurants to enjoy in the tranquillity of your own space – this is a laidback destination where the name of the game is rest and relaxation in a friendly, convivial environment. Despite the serenity of the setting, there are plenty of options to keep active visitors entertained. Guests can rent a jet ski to explore the Douro river – there are an elegant mixture of expansive vineyards and sprawling villa estates to see. It’s easy to take the train along the water for an adventure in one of the nearby towns – Peso da Régua has some excellent dining options, while pretty Pinhão is home to little terraced hillsides that produce some of the best port in the world. The ivycovered Eça De Queiroz Foundation is just a short taxi ride away, with a library, archives and museum to pore through – ideal for a rainy day.

Bucket Bag Patchwork

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PALÁCIO BELMONTE Lisbon, Portugal

Once the residence of a noble Portuguese family, this lavishly restored former stately home was recently branded one of the coolest hotels in the world

11 SUITES

7 TERRACES AIRPORT TRANSFER ART BOOKS BUTLER SERVICE INFINITY POOL PIANO

PALÁCIO BELMONTE, PÁTIO DE DOM FRADIQUE 14, 1100-624 LISBON, PORTUGAL +35 1 21 881 6600 | RESERVATIONS@PALACIOBELMONTE.COM | WWW.PALACIOBELMONTE.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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hen Frenchman Frédéric Coustols and his wife Maria purchased Palácio Belmonte in 1994, they set about restoring and transforming the 15th-century building into a regal retreat. Reopening six years later, after a painstaking rebuild, this beautiful hotel has since become one of the best-kept secrets in Lisbon. Accessed through a large red door in a quiet courtyard only metres from the tourist crowds in the heart of Lisbon, Belmonte’s 3,700 square metres are spread over several floors. With eleven suites and a thoroughly welcome dearth of such conventional amenities as televisions and reception desks, the palace has seemingly created an entirely new class of its own. Prioritising authenticity over gimmickry, and light, space, and landscapes over ostentation, it’s a glorious example of an outstanding restoration project. Helped by innovative touches including a natural ventilation system and the deliberate positioning of a series of

mini-staircases in place of elevators, the design favours extensive use of traditional materials and decorative touches. Of these, the most striking are the 3,800 blue-and-white Portuguese tiles dating from the 18th century. Mounted on 59 panels in sitting-rooms, libraries and suites throughout the hotel, they are one of the building’s most congenial and conspicuous distinguishing features. The magnificent Maria Ursula ballroom accommodates 17 of these panels alone, in addition to three enormous chandeliers hanging high from a painted marble ceiling. And yet despite its beauty and grandeur, the 100 square metre room is studiously subtle and unassuming. For those in search of rest and reflection, meanwhile, both the Belmonte Cultural Café and the Governor’s Room provide the requisite atmosphere in which to read and relax in the presence of music, contemporary art, and history. Similarly, the 11 suites themselves represent the very essence of life at BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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Palácio Belmonte. From the enormous Gil Vicente with its terrace and winter garden, to the Padre Himalaya – a romantic double arranged over two levels and boasting 360-degree views – each one offers a combination of eyewidening vistas and fastidious attention to detail. Perhaps more than anything, this tenacious insistence on perfection is a reflection of the hosts’ commitment to accomplishing their dream. To recreate this exceptional boutique hotel, Frédéric and Maria first had to generate and then promote an entirely new attitude, outlook, and lifestyle. In this saturated world of character-free franchises, it takes vision, imagination, and a profoundly grand design to create something truly special and distinctive. There are many perfectly restored establishments from which to choose throughout Europe, but few of them so finely combine the seductions of history, art, culture, luxury, space and peace. Palácio Belmonte truly is one of the most beautiful hotels in the world.

THE LUMIARES HOTEL & SPA Lisbon, Portugal

An opulent 18th century palace, tucked away in Lisbon’s cobblestoned Bairro Alto neighbourhood

53 APARTMENTS ROOFTOP VIEWS BAR RESTAURANT FITNESS CENTRE SPA 24-HOUR ROOM SERVICE CAR PARKING AIRPORT TRANSFER

THE LUMIARES HOTEL & SPA, R. DO DIÁRIO DE NOTÍCIAS 142, 1200-146 LISBON, PORTUGAL +351 21 116 0200 | RESERVATIONS@THELUMIARES.COM | WWW.THELUMIARES.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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ith its jasmine-covered 18th century exterior and ultracontemporary design-led décor within, The Lumiares epitomises the vibrantly eclectic fusion of history and modernity that gives Lisbon its heart and soul. Tucked away down a cobblestoned street on one of the city’s seven hills in the lively yet laidback area of Bairro Alto, this venerable hotel was once the palatial personal home of the Count of Lumiares. In a recent refurbishment, architects Helder Cordeiro and João Pedro Pedras transformed the building’s venerable structure into a fresh, contemporary space – without sacrificing any of the characterful quirks of its historical features. Bairro Alto is a gem for nightlife lovers, with a generous array of cosy bistros and hole-in-the-wall cocktail bars hidden away along its maze of picturesquely colourful and graffitied streets. The golden light of dusk plays on the terracotta roofs as

the sun goes down, and the sound of Fado guitar begins to echo from the local restaurants. One of the neighbourhood’s highlights is the Lumiares’ own Lumi Rooftop Bar – an open-air hideaway with truly stunning views across the city, all the way from the glistening river Tagus to the imposing Castelo São Jorge. Ask head bartender Luis to whip you up a specialty cocktail to sip as the sun dips below the horizon. Rooms at The Lumiares are welcoming and transformative – a haven for the weary traveller, complete with toiletries from Portugal-based soap merchants Claus Porto along with fluffy white dressing gowns, soft slippers and silky bedsheets. Offering a perfect counterpoint to its central and buzzy location, the hotel functions as an oasis of calm for visitors. The Lumiares Spa provides the perfect sanctuary to rejuvenate and relax the morning after a late night out in Bairro Alto, offering a BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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wide range of treatments from facials and massages to Shiatsu and Reflexology – all using La Sultane de Saba products. The hotel’s 53 apartments are available in a range of sizes, with the largest penthouse options also offering private terraces. All rooms have French windows, with accessories such as rugs and tapestry bed cushions crafted by local designers and artisans. The hotel is home to two onsite restaurants – The Café on the ground floor, and the Lumi Restaurant up on the roof. The latter features a contemporary menu from the mind of Head Chef Joao Silva, serving Portuguese cuisine crafted from locally-sourced produce wherever possible. One final feature to marvel at is the hotel’s golden staircase chandelier – a magnificent structure designed by the award-winning Scottish artist, Beau McLellan, it neatly summarises The Lumiares’ warm, welcoming and unabashedly opulent approach.

ALLADALE WILDERNESS RESERVE Ardgay, Scotland

A spectacular conservation reserve in the heart of the Scottish Highlands

7 ROOMS 2 COTTAGES RETREATS FITNESS CENTRE SPA STUNNING VIEWS WEDDINGS PET-FRIENDLY CAR PARKING AIRPORT TRANSFER BACK TO NATURE SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL

ALLADALE WILDERNESS RESERVE, ARDGAY IV24 3BS +441863 755338 | HOSPITALITY@ALLADALE.COM | WWW.ALLADALE.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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he holistic approach taken to hospitality by Alladale Wilderness Reserve brings to mind the words of Scottish-American naturalist, writer and philosopher John Muir – “When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe.” The conservation efforts and eco-conscious practices undertaken at Alladale place a focus on preserving the beauty and magic of the local scenery, allowing guests to experience the wonder of this region as a functioning part of the huge, complex ecosystem which forms it. Alladale Lodge sits on a magnificent nature reserve of 100 square kilometres, located deep in the Scottish Highlands. A warm and welcoming central Victorian manor house sleeps 14, with Laura Ashley interiors and roaring fireplaces – the perfect place to curl up and enjoy a dram after a long day spent out in the fresh air.

As well as the main lodge, Alladale also features two family-size cottages, along with a bunkhouse for larger groups. And the head chef is always on hand to prepare divine, locally-sourced dishes. The activities offered at Alladale are as diverse and varied as the scenery itself (or the local weather, for that matter). Guests can choose between dolphin watching excursions and whisky distillery trips, guided hikes, mountain biking, and foraging classes. Traditionalists might opt to go clay pigeon shooting or brown trout fishing, while animal lovers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to partake in a rangerguided tour – offering an explanation of Alladale’s ‘rewilding’ process. This tour gives guests the opportunity to spot Highland cattle, red deer, golden eagles, Red Squirrels and Scottish Wild Cats in their natural habitat. At the Badger Hide on the picturesque Abhainn a Ghlinne BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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Mhoir River, visitors are welcome to light a fire, relax and lie in wait to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife. Along with its incredible natural setting and wealth of guest activities, Alladale’s most impressive aspect is its unflagging commitment to ecological restoration. Upon acquiring Alladale back in 2003, custodian Paul Lister realised just how badly the landscape had been damaged by human industry. The Caledonian Forest, once known as ‘the Great Forest of Caledon’ by the Romans, is still sprawling and majestic to the modern eye – but only 1% of the original woodland mass remains, and the native flora and fauna have suffered. The team at Alladale works tirelessly to tackle this, planting more than 920,000 native trees in the last ten years – showcasing true respect and love for the reserve’s majestic Highland setting.

HOTEL & SPA ES MARÈS Formentera, Spain

A sleek sandstone hotel and spa on the serene island of Formentera – authentic, elegant, and truly timeless

13 ROOMS 1 JUNIOR SUITE RESTAURANT BAR SPA TERRACE SWIMMING POOL JACUZZI CONCIERGE GYM FREE BICYCLE HIRE CAR PARKING

HOTEL & SPA ES MARÈS, CARRER DE SANTA MARIA, 15, 07860 SAN FRANCISCO JAVIER, BALEARIC ISLANDS, SPAIN +34 971 32 32 16 | INFO@HOTELESMARES.COM | WWW.HOTELESMARES.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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n island getaway in the truest sense of the phrase, Formentera has evolved from the hippy escape it once was into a sleek, stylish and well-heeled little sanctuary for grown-ups in search of serenity. The most peaceful and petite of the Balearic Islands, it is free from the large clubs and sprawling beach bars of its larger counterparts – this is very much barefoot-on-the-beach country. The landscape is beautiful and unspoilt, dotted with pretty little whitewashed farmhouses and picturesque harbours – and now also home to the Es Marès luxury hotel and spa. Located in the heart of bustling village of Sant Francesc (the closest thing the island has to a capital) Es Marès Hotel & Spa reflects the traditional structures and natural beauty of the island with its chic décor of wood, stone and whitewash elements. This family-run property was

opened back in 2011, designed as a love letter to Formentera – the name Es Marès refers to the sandstone that provides the forms of the island’s rugged cliffs and pretty churches and houses. Rooms at Es Marès are decorated simply and harmoniously, with oceanic elements of driftwood and seashells reflecting the Mediterranean setting. The hotel’s spa is intimate and luxurious, with natural rock fixtures providing a sense of connection with the surrounding scenery. Personalised treatments from expert professionals are the ideal way to unwind and pamper oneself, with products provided exclusively by Natura Bissé. Options are truly diverse: experience a chromotherapy sauna, kick-start your system with an ice fountain, or simply soak away your cares in the jacuzzi. A gym on the second floor has pretty views out across the village. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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Es Marès’s small outdoor pool area is heaven-sent for morning sunbathing – although with so many stunning beaches located just a few minutes’ drive from the hotel, guests are never short of a swimming location or two. Borrow a bicycle from reception to get out for an impromptu adventure – the Far de la Mola lighthouse on the far side of the island offers magical views across the Mediterranean. At Es Marès, mornings start off right with a mimosa and a deliciously flaky curled ensaïmada pastry – described by beloved Spanish food writer Josep Pla as the “lightest, airiest and most delicate thing in this country’s confectionery.” After a day’s sunbathing and swimming, head to the hotel’s on-site restaurant, a highlight of Sant Francesc, it features an outdoor terrace that sits directly on the town square. A charming spot to sit and watch the world go by with a glass of local wine – bliss.

THE TUXEDO JAZZ ORCHESTRA ‘Music from the ’20s and ’30s performed at its best. I loved it!’ — John Suchet, Classic FM ‘It has been my great pleasure to work with Tony when he performs in New York City. I love his great singing and the style in which he sings and entertains, bringing back the spirit and fun of the 1920s, 30s and 40s. Tony has appeared with my band – the Nighthawks at Sophia’s, the Iguana and at Birdland. Tony Jacobs and his Tuxedo Jazz Orchestra is one of our top vintage groups we have today !’ — Grammy Award Winning Vince Giordano and star of ‘There’s A Future In The Past’ ALL ENQUIRIES TO TONY JACOBS AT TJ@TONYJACOBS.NET WWW.TONYJACOBS.NET

ISLA SA FERRADURA Ibiza, Spain

A luxurious private island paradise with tropical gardens and stunning panoramic views

1 SUITE 5 BEDROOMS BARS FITNESS CENTRE/GYM POOLS ROOFTOP SPA WI-FI STUNNING VIEWS

ISLA SA FERRADURA, PUERTO SAN MIGUEL, IBIZA +49 17 641 004 341 | ULFKAROW@HOTMAIL.COM | WWW. ISLAFERRADURA.COM BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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ocated in the picturesque Bay of San Miquel, off the north coast of Ibiza, Isla Sa Ferradura is a stunning, 35,000m2 private island with more than a little ‘wow’ factor. Rumour has it that this remote isle was a pirate hideout in the 17th century, and it’s not hard to see why. The privacy offered is unparalleled, making the luxury villa that now sits atop it one of the most exclusive in Europe. Connected to the main island by a narrow, two-sided beach, it’s the perfect retreat for relaxation and pampering in a private sanctuary. It has spectacular vistas and two incredible swimming pools, one located in the stunning tropical gardens engulfed by the breath-taking landscape. The rooftop terrace with a DJ mixing deck and a stage area makes it the ideal place

for socialising, entertaining, and hosting lavish private events. An internationally experienced team of 22 staff are on hand at all times, offering a hotel-stay feel within the exclusivity of a private island. Originally built in the 1970s, in a distinctive hacienda style, Isla Sa Ferradura recently underwent a total refurbishment under Spanish architect Jaime Romano. Keeping the original structure, Romano changed the concept and feel of the villa to that of easy, modern, and contemporary - giving this exceptional hideaway back its long-lost Balearic personality. The interior is dominated by a cool Ibizan chic approach, with warm natural textures, a neutral colour palette, and carefully selected local artwork. It has an air of laid-back luxury, whilst still respecting the regional beauty and charm. BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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There is one luxurious master suite and five deluxe bedrooms, all with en-suite facilities - some semi open-air. With many outdoor terraces, chill out zones and alfresco dining areas, this six-bedroom villa truly incorporates the natural surroundings, seamlessly blending the interior and exterior. For guests wishing to indulge in a little “me” time, there is a fully equipped gym, incorporating a yoga area, as well as a spa with a Jacuzzi, sauna, steam bath, oriental wellness area, and extensive treatment menu. There is also a boathouse with water sports equipment, for those looking for a little adventure. However, we imagine it will be hard to tear yourself away from simply revelling in the luxurious surroundings and views, indulging in some serious R&R time.

PESTANA PLAZA MAYOR MADRID Madrid, Spain

A luxury hotel brimming with historical heritage, in the heart of old Madrid

87 ROOMS OUTDOOR AND INDOOR SWIMMING POOLS ROOFTOP RESTAURANT SPA FITNESS CENTRE MEETING ROOMS

PESTANA PLAZA MAYOR MADRID, CALLE IMPERIAL, 8, 28012 MADRID, SPAIN +34 910 05 28 22 | GUEST@PESTANA.COM | WWW.PESTANACOLLECTION.COM/UK/HOTEL/PESTANA-MADRID-PLAZA-MAYOR BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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he Pestana Plaza Mayor is located in a historic 17th century building, the Casa de la Carnicería, on the city’s iconic Plaza Mayor right in the centre of Madrid de los Austrias – a neighbourhood known for its rich sense of history and proudly distinctive style. Housing 87 elegantly-furnished private rooms, the hotel’s interior spaces pay loving tribute to generations of artisans that have contributed to Madrid’s creative charms: embroiderers, weavers, blacksmiths, ceramicists and carpenters. Everywhere you look, the sense of local creative pride is palpable – from Pestana Plaza Mayor’s huge early-20th-century stained glass window to its strikingly geometric Herrerian-style staircasing. The hotel’s crowning glory can be found up on the roof – an outdoor swimming pool that offers magnificent views over the lanes and rooftops of historic Madrid, open during the warmer months. An additional indoor pool is open year-round, and is attached to the hotel’s

on-site sauna and spa treatment rooms. A small fitness centre complete with Technogym equipment allows visitors to keep up with their usual routine. There are also some pleasantly scenic running routes down by the nearby river Manzanares – the hotel’s friendly and knowledgeable staff will be able to advise. The Pestana Plaza Mayor is home to the RIB Restaurant, which specialises in organic beef but also offers some excellent fish and vegetarian options for those not of the carnivorous persuasion. Located in the beautiful inner courtyard of the hotel, it is a leafy and romantic spot to enjoy a classic Spanish bone-in Chuletón steak or a 45-day-matured kilo of Tomahawk. If you’d prefer to get out and explore, that’s easily done – the restaurant-heavy street of Cava Baja is just round the corner, and is crammed with delicious tapas bar options. Staying on the edge of Madrid’s 400-year-old Plaza Mayor has its perks, one of which is that it is extremely easy BOUTIQUE HOTEL SELECTION

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to traverse the city from this supercentral location. La marcha (the action) of Madrid’s infamously buzzy nightlife is never far away – with options ranging from the bars of lively and trendy Malasaña to the elegant, upscale establishments of Serrano. Upon your return, walk into the hotel from the Calle Imperial to make your way up the magnificent central staircase, for the most atmospheric entrance. Madrid is an art-lover’s paradise – from home-grown heroes such as Velázquez and Goya, to other Spanish artists such as Dalí and Picasso, alongside a variety of Italian and Flemish greats, visitors are never too far from the next masterpiece to marvel at. The Pestana Plaza Mayor is perfectly located to discover all the wonderful artworks the city has to offer – it is just 20 minutes’ walk from the worldfamous collections of Museo del Prado, Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza and Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, where you’ll find Madrid’s most creatively inspiring artistic sights.

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Donkey Bay Inn, Russell, Bay Of Islands, New Zealand, 134 Drake Bay Getaway Resort, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica, 56 Fond Doux Plantation and Resort, Soufrière, St Lucia, 68

Le Gray, Beirut, Lebanon, 80 Locanda Al Colle, Versilia, Italy, 184

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Masseria Susafa, Palermo, Italy, 170

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Kayumanis Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia, 100 Kayumanis Sanur, Bali, Indonesia, 102 Kayumanis Ubud Private Villa and Spa, Bali, Indonesia, 104 Kayumanis Yangshuo Private Villa & Spa, Yangshuo, China, 74

Napo Wildlife Centre, Yasuni National Park, Ecuador, 66 Ostraco Suites, Mykonos, Greece, 156 Palácio Belmonte, Lisbon, Portugal, 196 Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid, Madrid, Spain, 210 Pondoro Game Lodge, Limpopo, South Africa, 28 qualia, Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island, Australia, 122 Rancho Pacifico, Uvita, Costa Rica, 60 Reethi Faru, Filaidhoo, Maldives, 106

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Relais & Chateaux Hotel Heritage, Bruges, Belgium, 145 Reserva One Love, Palomino, Colombia, 48 Riad Kheirredine, Marrakesh, Morocco, 12 Rosedon Hotel, Hamilton, Bermuda, 36 Royal Mansour, Marrakesh, Morocco, 14 Taveuni Palms, Taveuni Island, Fiji, 125 Te Koi – The Lodge At Bronte, Bronte Peninsula, New Zealand, 131 Tenuta Montemagno Relais & Wine, Monteferrato, Italy, 168 The Lumiares Hotel & Spa, Lisbon, Portugal, 198 The Merchant House, Manama, Bahrain, 72 The Resort Villa, Rayong, Thailand, 82 The Retreat Costa Rica, Atenas, Alejuela, Costa Rica, 54 Villa Caemilla, Boracay, Philippines, 110 Villa Mia, Koh Samui, Thailand, 116 Wara, Atacama, Chile, 46

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” Mark Twain

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