Check-In

Gaurang Jhunjhnuwala

After launching new properties in Australia and New Zealand, the CEO of Naumi Hotels heads to the mountains for an indulgent fantasy break.

Where are you?

Checking-in to a mountain retreat at an alpine destination with breathtaking views.

How did you get there?

I took a propeller plane then a horse-drawn carriage to the top of a snow-capped peak.

Who is there to greet you on arrival?

Ian Schrager, who has a Dirty Martini in hand as a welcome drink.

And who’s at the concierge desk?

James Bond – he’s able to share the region’s coolest and most action-packed spots.

Who are you sharing your room with?

My wife.

Is there anything you would like waiting for you in your room?

A counter full of snacks for every mood, from healthy nibbles to a candy station. There’s also a fully-stocked mini-bar with an inventive bartender on hand to prepare bespoke predinner cocktails, as well as a private chef for those midnight cravings.

Describe the hotel, your room and the view...

It’s a room full of enigmas. Maximalist and design centric yet cosy, contemporary and soulful with an exuberant identity – every detail forms part of the story. The bathroom cleverly incorporates elements such as concealed lighting and universal adapters, as well as technology that enables me to stream TV shows and music while taking a shower. There’s a separate living area equipped with an Apple TV and desk, ideal for relaxing or working before heading to the terrace, where an outdoor fireplace and comfortable sofas overlook the mountains.

Who designed it?

Italian Renaissance painter Sandro Bottacelli in partnership with Karim Rashid.

NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS Naumi Hotels in Singapore, Auckland, Wellington and Sydney; The Dairy Private Hotel, Queenstown www.naumihotels.com

What’s the restaurant and bar like?

It’s cosy, and has a real buzz.

Who are you dining with this evening?

Thomas Edison, Oprah Winfrey and Walt Disney, along with The Mad Hatter and Black Panther.

Who’s manning the stoves?

Wong Chun Fai from Qi House of Sichuan in Singapore and Hong Kong, accompanied by David McCarthy from Scott’s in London.

And what’s on the menu?

It’s a delectable mix of cuisines. We start with a cheese soufflé, followed by my favourite Sichuan dumplings and smoky hot tofu. Next up is a perfectly al dente penne al’arrabiata, and to finish, a light vanilla pudding.

Would you like something to drink with that?

A selection of cocktails; I’ll take a Negroni, a Dirty Martini and an Old Fashioned or two.

What’s in the mini-bar for a night cap? The ingredients to make my own Negroni.

What’s on your nightstand at bedtime?

Any of the Harry Potter books.

Would you like a newspaper or magazine in the morning?

A magazine - Sleeper, of course!

Bath or power-shower?

Power-shower all the way baby.

What toiletries would you like to freshen-up?

Augustinus Bader.

Early morning alarm call or late check-out?

Late check-out.

What’s your essential travel companion?

My running shoes – especially after last night’s meal.

Swimming pool, spa or gym?

The gym followed by a trip to the spa.

Full English, continental or something different?

An Asian breakfast with plenty of delicious, warming dishes ahead of a day in the mountains.