HEAVEN ON EARTH

TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHERS AND CREATIVE DIRECTORS SARAH-LOUISE AND CHRISTOPHER OF @THE_ADVENTURESOFUS AND @NO.17HOUSE REVEAL THEIR TOP DESTINATIONS FOR 2022

Opposite Christopher and Sarah-Louise This page Maldives magic at the Six Senses Laamu

MAGICAL MALDIVES

Close your eyes and imagine the gentle sound of the sea, sunlight warming your skin and the blissful scent of saltwater and sun cream. Your pulse slows, you deepen your breath, and your soul is suddenly at peace. ‘No news, no shoes’ is the policy here. Welcome to the Maldives.

With more than a thousand idyllic castaway islands – often described as the most beautiful on Earth –across 35,000 square miles of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives epitomises paradise. And with powdery soft sand and cyan-blue waters, the twenty-six spectacular coral atolls have earned a reputation as one of the world’s most sophisticated and exclusive destinations. As soon as your flight emerges from the clouds, it is easy to see why.

We recommend the stunning Six Senses Laamu (@sixsenseslaamu). Amid pristine white beaches and sky-high palm trees, life at Laamu is slow, and relaxation is taken seriously. It truly is paradise.

WHEN IN VENICE

A VISIT TO VENICE’S COOLEST NEW HOTEL, IL PALAZZO EXPERIMENTAL. BY CHARLIE TEE

Opposite Terrace at the back of Il Palazzo Experimental This page Suite overlooking the Giudecca Canal

NEW YORK STATE OF MIND

There is something magical about New York; something visceral that captures our imaginations on every visit. Everything feels bigger. Time seems to move a little faster. The abundant energy, sound and scale come together to create an inimitable, inspiring atmosphere.

Every few years, we get the urge to dip our toes into this vibrant place, and remind ourselves why it’s one of the world’s greatest cities. The Big Apple is renowned for trendy bars and eateries, creative boutiques and views to die for, each area offering something completely different from the next.

As the sun fades, the city lights come alive. The restaurant scene is prolific; make reservations early so you don’t miss out. One of our favourite spots for dinner is Chinese Tuxedo (@chinesetuxedo), a popular haunt in the heart of Chinatown. The brainchild of Jeff Lam and Eddy Buckingham, it has a buzzing atmosphere amid its brick walls, candlelight and sleek, contemporary interiors.

For evening cocktails, nothing beats stepping into the roaring 1920s at Maison Premiere (@maisonpremiere), a Brooklyn institution for oysters, absinthe on tap and a guaranteed great evening by candlelight.

For Sunday brunch, head over the Williamsburg Bridge and relax at DUMBO House, a stylish members’ space from the Soho House Group. With a marvellous view of Manhattan, it’s the perfect place to take time, read a paper and relax.

Opposite The Empire State Building Left Iconic tenement architecture Below Looking along Lexington to the Chrysler Building

MARVELLOUS MARRAKECH

Morocco’s glittering bohemian jewel Marrakech is just a four-hour flight from London, yet feels a world away. The sights, scents and flavours of the red city serve up a dose of ancient wonder combined with sensuous luxury and aesthetic simplicity. It’s the kind of place you visit once and immediately know you’ll be back.

From the warm morning glow as the sun rises over the Atlas mountains to the flurry of fast-paced traffic, powder-pink buildings, magicians in Jemaa el-Fna Square, majestic medina walls, terracotta walkways and haggling for rugs and gleaming trinkets in the city’s

Left Amanjena, Marrakech Below Marrakech souk Opposite Hotel Santa Caterina, Amalfi

souks, Marrakech is an exotic, sensory overload like no other. And it will captivate all who venture behind its ochre walls.

Seven miles south of the medina, at the gateway to the Sahara, our favourite place to stay is the prestigious ‘peaceful paradise’, Amanjena (@amanjena_resort). Influenced by Marrakech’s Saadian tombs, its majestic arches, lush palms and olive trees sit in perfect harmony with the dusky pink walls, stunning water reflections and tranquil villas; a spacious and serene escape from the bustle of the souks.

THE ALLURING AMALFI COAST

There is something indescribable about the beauty of the Amalfi Coast. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. John Steinbeck said it best: ‘Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone.’

Our first stop is always Hotel Santa Caterina (@hotel_santa_caterina), on a cliff edge in the heart of the Amalfi Coast. It has a sense of old-world glamour and, if the walls could talk, they would tell a thousand stories.

In nearby Positano, a visit to Da Vincenzo for grilled langoustine and homemade ragu pasta is a must, while the pizza at Il Capitano is unrivalled. And for true romance, start with sundowners on the terrace at Le Sirenuse, followed by dinner at the Michelin-starred La Sponda.

This page and opposite Stunning sea views at Hotel Santa Caterina, Amalfi

AMAZING AMANZOE

Nestled high on a hilltop, amid olive groves, vineyards and cypress trees, Amanzoe (aman.com/resorts/amanzoe) draws its name from the Sanskrit-derived word for ‘peace’ and zoe, the Greek word for ‘life’. The resort feels like an acropolis: majestic pillars and colonnades crafted in marble and stone are surrounded by pale blue waters, conjuring a serene atmosphere. The columned walkways lead to a circular platform and firepit, which offers a panoramic view of the Peloponnese and Aegean Sea, and is a prime spot for watching the sunset.

Tranquility and relaxation are at the core of the Aman philosophy – and, at Amanzoe, time stands almost still. The focus is health, wellbeing and relaxing seclusion: essential for those leading busy city lives.

This exclusive haven of unsurpassed beauty has quickly become the Mediterranean playground of those in the know. Sleek, contemporary pavilions and villas are available to purchase or rent. All open to expansive private terraces, enabling airy interiors to blend seamlessly with nature, and create an unrivalled sense of calm and seclusion.

This page and opposite The astonishing views at Amanzoe, Greece