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State of the art luxury experience at the Como Metropolitan Hotel London

We arrived at the stunning Como Metropolitan hotel, situated in the in the heart of London and overlooking the magnificent Hyde Park on a sunny afternoon.

We were greeted at reception by the extremely friendly Service Manager .The staff took care of unwrapping our bags for us and taking them up to our room. While checking in we were offered a glass of champagne and given a small shot glass filled with a mixture of herbs. They explained to us that it was meant to recharge our bodies and give us new energy. (Exactly what we needed at that stage).

The Service manager accompanied us to our room. Just as well because the room needed some explaining. Arriving at our magnificent room on the 10th floor and with an exquisite view over the park we quickly realized that this room was even more amazing then we first thought. It was a fully smart-room. All the curtains, blinds and lights were controlled from a single control panel on the telephone. Push a button and the blinds opened. Push another button and you can dim any of the many different lights in the room to create whatever ambiance you desire. The room had everything from electric blinds to a fully stocked mini-bar with everything you could possibly want or need including heated mirrors that wont fog up when you shower.

The next morning, we had a workout in their state of the art gym. As someone that has been to many gyms and loves a good workout, this was heaven. The gym was fully equipped with everything from a full range of cardio equipment to weights heavy enough for regular trainers. There was even a ballet pole attached to the mirror to help you stretch. The standard bottle of water and towel were included as part of your workout but what is more is they also give you a free pair of earphones. This is for you to plug into their cardio equipment and listen to music or watch television while you build up a sweat. In my books this gym scored 10 out of 10.

The English breakfast was a delight, served in a beautiful dining room with a glass roof, letting the sun shine in.

In conclusion, the Como Metropolitan hotel is a must visit. The staff are exceptionally courteous and friendly, always willing to help and assist. The hotel itself with its technologically advanced rooms and amazing gym provides all the facilities and services you can think of.

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representatives

Book Here  

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Prana Lodge An absolute stunner!

Prana Lodge is a unique small luxury beach lodge and wellness spa situated in a pristine forest alongside the spectacular Chintsa Bay, within minutes of rolling savannah and private game viewing.

My Husband and I had the pleasure of spending two nights at Prana Lodge in Chintsa. We were greeted by two staff members standing waiting for us to arrive. Once we stopped our vehicle they introduced themselves and took our car to park it as well as our luggage to put in our rooms. We were then welcomed with a  delicious refreshing drink.

We then went to the sauna, steamer, jacuzzi and then went to have a full body massage! It was amazing! Quiet and tranquil. It was so incredible that even my husband even fell asleep half way through.

They have 7 different suites. Ours was called the Citrine Suite. Each Suite is named after a different gem stone and they have the colour elements in the suite. Ours had yellow elements in the room. It was defiantly striking. Each suite has their own pool, and I absolutely loved relaxing outside there. The outside shower was exquisite as well.

Now for the food, one word… SUPERB! We were served a three course meal every night and had two options for the main dish. They decorated the plate beautifully, and served just enough to be able to get through the three course meal without feeling to full.

I have been telling people that this is a place they have to visit! Especially if you are needing a get away from your busy life and are needing time to relax and get your thoughts together. I cannot think of one thing to complain about! The staff always had smiles on their faces and were always eager to help when necessary. I would come back in a heartbeat.

Reviewed By L’toya and Neville Da Silva – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representatives

To view more about this property go to www.pranalodge.co.za

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Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre – Service Excellence Personified…

The first word I would like to use to describe this hotel, is surprising. And it’s not that the hotel doesn’t look great online, it’s why I chose it, but the pictures simply do not do it justice in comparison to what you actually experience when you enter the lobby, glistening with lighting and marble yet soft to the eye, immediately giving you a welcoming and warm feeling.

I arrived late in Dubai, and as such only reached the hotel at midnight. This didn’t stop the service from bustling to my attention; “Good evening Mrs. Evans and welcome, allow me to show you straight to your room.” Wow, no check-in, known by name, staff rushing around me to open elevators and take my bags. I’m already very impressed, and this was only the beginning

Junior Suite

I was treated to a Junior Suite on the 11th floor during my stay here, and apart from the fact that the view of Dubai is majestic from that high, the room itself was incredible. Large and spacious, one of the best beds and pillows I have ever had the pleasure of sleeping on during my travels, two televisions, a comfortable lounge and a generous bathroom filled with every amenity you would require.

View from my suite on the 11th floor

During my stay I was able to enjoy the bar on the 1st floor which has an extremely comfortable atmosphere. Every time you take a seat you are served some pub style snacks like popcorn, nuts and olives, and you can leisurely enjoy your drink while watching either sport, playing a game of pool or simply listening to the music. On Friday nights, Medley Restaurant holds what is known as the Art of Spice. An Indian cuisine delight created proudly by celebrity Chef Sweety Singh. Rows of serving pots line the buffet and you can sample as many as you want or can handle. I had a special dietary requirement yet this was no issue. Two delectable curries arrived at my table, served with fresh naan bread and all the sides required to make this a true Indian feast. I can see why the General Manager personally recommends this experience, as I will not soon forget it.

Soma Spa was by far the most relaxing experience on my journey. If you can, get a lady by the name of Chon to get her hands on you, I can guarantee you this will be worth every penny as her healing hands find every knot and aching spot on your body. The spa itself is beautifully laid out, tranquil and relaxing. The change rooms hold the sauna and steam room for use before your treatment, and after being sent into seventh heaven you are seated quietly to some ginger tea while you let the experience run over in your mind, relaxing you even further before returning to your day.

Soma Spa

All in all, a hotel is not only made up of walls and glitz and glamour. The true heart of a hotel, and what makes your stay memorable, is the hospitality of the staff that surround you. This hotel has it all. The glam, the rooms, the food, the spa, yet what stood out to me the most during my time here, was the staff. I have always said hospitality is a special sort of kindness, and it is something that you either have or don’t, it cannot be taught. Not a single member of their team made me feel that they were there because they had to be; they wanted to be. Their service excellence echoes through every corridor, radiates out of every meal served, in every passing greeting, in every room service delivered. And this single point alone is what made this one of the best and most enjoyable hotels I have had the pleasure of visiting.

This hotel will suit every travel requirement, so when passing through Dubai and looking for accommodation for one or seven nights, you will not be disappointed to make this your selection.

Book or view this hotel by clicking here

Reviewed By Joanna Evans

World Luxury Awards Marketing Communications Manager

 

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JUMEIRAH CELEBRATES SUCCESS AT THE WORLD LUXURY HOTEL AWARDS

Jumeirah Hotels in the Maldives and Kuwait scoop several awards

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa

Dubai, 10, December 2017: Jumeirah Vittaveli in the Maldives has been named Global Hotel of the Year and Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa in Kuwait was named Luxury Business Hotel of the Year at the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2017 held in Switzerland.

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa

Jumeirah Vittaveli was also named global winner for Best Luxury Island Resort and continent winner for Best Luxury Family Beach Resort. The Royal Residence at Jumeirah Vittaveli was named continent winner for Best Luxury Beachfront VillaBest Luxury Hideaway Villa and Best Luxury Private Villa – an incredible overall result for Jumeirah Vittaveli.

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa also took home awards for LuxuryEco/Green Hotel and Luxury Beach Resort. The hotel was named  Luxury Destination Spa and Luxury Wellness Spaat the World Luxury Spa Awards 2017.

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa

Jumeirah Vittaveli’s General Manager, Mr Amit Majumder, received the awards at a grand event held in St Moritz, Switzerland. “I’m overwhelmed by the awards we received tonight. I can only say a very big Thank You to my team who has worked so hard to get us where we are today. And to our guests who continue to show their love for our little piece of paradise by returning regularly. We will continue to surprise you and strive to be worthy of this immense recognition. Being named Global Hotel of the Year 2017 in a fierce competitive field truly is the epitome of our recognitions this year.”

Jumeirah Vittaveli

General Manager, Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa, Savino Leone, said: “We are deeply touched and proud to receive worldwide recognition for our continuous efforts in luxury hospitality in Kuwait. This coveted award is another testament to our brand promise of delivering exceptional guest experiences. It has been a great and successful year and we only hope to elevate our benchmarks of excellence in services in the years to come.”

Setting the basis for service industry standards around the globe, the World Luxury Hotel Awards provides true recognition to luxury hotels and resorts in their relevant categories during its annual voting phase. Over 300,000 votes were tallied this year from travellers and guests of these luxury establishments during the voting phase. Properties from over 120 countries competed in the 2017 awards and it is truly an honour to be one of the selected nominees and winners.

About Jumeirah Group:
Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, operates a world-class portfolio of hotels and resorts including the flagship Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts manages properties in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Kuwait in the Middle East; Frankfurt, Istanbul, London and Mallorca (Spain) in Europe; the Maldives and Shanghai in Asia. Jumeirah Group also runs the luxury serviced residences brand Jumeirah LivingTM with properties in London and Dubai; the wellness brand TaliseTM; Jumeirah Restaurant Group DubaiTM; Wild Wadi WaterparkTM; The Emirates Academy of Hospitality ManagementTM; Jumeirah SiriusTM, its global loyalty programme; and isme by Jumeirah™ an app based rewards programme in the UAE. Future openings include luxury hotels in the UAE, Bahrain, Indonesia, China, Oman, Jordan, Malaysia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. www.jumeirah.com

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The Chedi Andermatt – A Dream Come True Destination

Andermatt is a village in the Ursern Valley in the Swiss Alps; nestled in the heart of this quaint, snowy wonderland is The Chedi Andermatt, a ski hotel quite unmatched in its beauty and winter charm. The Chedi Andermatt will captivate and move you.

We were afforded the luxury of being accommodated in the two-bedroom Grand Deluxe Suite at this property and although we are sure every room at this hotel is phenomenal, this particular suite was breathtaking. Walking in to a more than spacious lounge, an electric fireplace blazing like it’s been waiting to welcome you all day, a well equipped kitchen and an 10-seater dining room table; you feel like you are right at home. A very luxurious home!

The bedrooms are sublime. Massive open spaces with balconies overlooking the snowy town below, beds and pillows that kiss you goodnight each time you enter their soft haven, and bathrooms so large and spacious, you feel as though you are royalty living in a palace.

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Dining at the hotel was superb. There are four outstanding restaurants and bars to choose from which boast a menu range enough to suit anyone’s requirements. The staff are friendly, polite and very dedicated to providing top quality, international standards of service throughout your stay. A particular highlight in The Restaurant is The Wine and Cheese Cellar: at five meters high it attracts cheese connoisseurs who marvel at its delights through the glass walls.

One of my most favourite places to visit in any hotel is the spa, and The Chedi Andermatt lives up to and surpasses the standards of luxury. I took some time out especially to enjoy the 35 meter indoor pool, and this was topped by the 12 meter outdoor pool, filled with blissfully hot water to swim around in while the snow pours down your head as you take in the beautiful Alpine surroundings.

If you feel like skiing, you will receive your own personal Ski Butler, a feature we have yet to see in any other hotel we have visited. He will take care of your every need from getting up the mountain, renting your equipment and ensuring you have an international ski instructor available to show you the ropes. Another favourite feature was that The Chedi Andermatt has its own ice skating rink for when you feel like lazily skating around a rink in the snow surrounded by the resort and mountain views.

All in all, The Chedi Andermatt is probably the most unique, stylish and luxurious hotel I have ever had the privilege of staying in. The staff are above the quality of what one could hope for, and no doubt in my mind that whatever your reason for travelling to this destination may be, you will feel relaxed, pampered and ready for anything by check out.

Reviewed By Joanna Evans

To book this breathtaking Hotel follow the details below.

website – click here

email- info@chediandermatt.com

 

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Hotel Papadopoli Venezia – MGallery by Sofitel

Travelling to the city of Venice in Italy is an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. I suggest taking a private water taxi from the airport and entering the hotel via the water canals with style.  If you are lucky enough to enter Venice just before sunset, the experience will be even more romantic. Imagine sailing into a city filled with beautiful historic buildings, arched staircases and the suns’ reflection on the water streets. The water taxi takes you directly to the hotel entrance and kicks off your love affair with the city of Venice forever.

Arriving at Hotel Papadopoli Venezia – MGallery by Sofitel is an exciting experience. Once you enter the lobby of the hotel the glamour and elegance of this intimate boutique hotel is overwhelming. Close to the reception desk is a display case fill with shoes and handbags decorated with Swarovski crystals. The lounge is decorated with vintage furniture that includes throne chairs, carved giltwood tables and mirror frames, 18th century Italian style sofas as well as breathtaking chandeliers that provide just enough light to feel cozy and relaxed.

 

 

The stairway to the GIARDINO D’INVERNO (Winter Garden) restaurant is framed by two fashion mannequins, each dressed in a ball gown skirt and colorful ladies jacket. One soon discovers that the skirts actually consist of a tree and flower decoration. The beautiful artistry of this hotel is mesmerizing and the use of pastel colors is calming and poetic. Once you reach the Winter Garden one is transported to a scene from the magical Shakespearean play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

The hotel has 96 rooms and suites that are finished with furnishings reflecting the elegance and splendor of the 18th century, and views of the Tolentini Canal and Papadopoli Gardens. Each of the rooms are themed and I was fortunate to be accommodated in the Marco Polo room.

One of the special qualities of Hotel Papadopoli Venezia is the spectacular view the rooms provide.  I would suggest starting your day with breakfast on your balcony and a wonderful view of the city rooftops.

The location of the hotel is great and within walking distance of most of the tourist attractions. It is a real treat to explore the busy allies of Venice and stumble upon unique gift shops and restaurants. If you have a lot of luggage the hotel will organize you a city porter in no time to assist you with the heavy load.

Overall, I can recommend Hotel Papadopoli Venezia to any traveller visiting Venice. Personally, the comfortable stay and attentive service contributed to a wonderful experience and many cherished memories.

Hotel Reviewed by Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager of World Luxury Hotel Awards.

To view this hotel click here

To phone +39 041 710400

 

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Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage

Situated in the heart of medieval Brugges, rich in history and gastronomy, Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage, is the exquisite setting for your romantic getaways and for all your special celebrations in life.

Photo with Nagi, one of the amazing employees at Hotel Heritage.

Upon arrival at Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage, we were warmly welcomed and checked in by Jessie who showed us to our room. Our room was absolutely stunning and elegantly decorated with exquisite attention to detail. The hand written welcome note from Johan and Isabelle really made us feel welcomed.

Our beautifully decorated room.

The Hotel’s location is in the heart of Brugges, close to the market square and the city’s many canals, this is ideal for sightseeing, museums, chocolate shops and theatres.

Exploring the market and canals.

Each morning we had a full buffet champagne breakfast, which was served in their beautiful dining area. The food was absolutely divine and local Belgian waffles were definitely a highlight.

We were personally greeted by owners Johan and Isabella and had lovely chats with them. All the staff are incredibly friendly, attentive and provided the highest level of service.

A glass of red wine and snacks at Bar le Magnum in such a beautiful setting truly relax’s you before dinner at Le Mystique Restaurant. This was without a doubt the best 5 course meal I have ever experienced. Chef Gregory Slembrouck is a true master in the kitchen and this is one meal I will never forget. Only the finest seasonal ingredients are used and combined with World class flavours to create these wonderful gourmet delights.

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Johan and Isabelle are true visonaries in creating the perfect boutique hotel.
Rich in history, charming and absolutely magnificent would be the best way to describe my stay at Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage. I do hope to return one day in the near future.

To view more click here

To send a booking inquiry – info@hotel-heritage.com

Reviewed By Tanique Echardt- Executive Manager World Luxury Hotel Awards

 

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Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese – Rome – Italy

Arriving at Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese, guests are welcomed to a cozy lobby styled with classic as well as contemporary décor. A beautiful crystal chandelier hangs from the roof, while the colorful avant-garde painting against the wall and a vintage Vespa scooter parked next to the staircase sets the scene. The walls of the hotel are lined with 1960’s black and white portraits of films stars. Guests are transported back the glamorous vintage era of La Dolce Vita, a famous Italian film that translates into “the good life”.

images of hotel

This boutique hotel features 81 luxury rooms, conference as well as meeting space. The hotel also features the La Terrasse Cuisine & Lounge that provides a breathtaking rooftop view over the city of Rome. It is no surprise that Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese was voted as the 2017 global winner in the category, Luxury Rooftop View Hotel, during the 2017 World Luxury Hotel Awards.

view from rooftop

Guests can enjoy a Mediterranean lunch or gourmet dinner at the award-winning restaurant or sip a cocktail during sunset while enjoying the spectacular view of the capital.

bar

The hotel is located close to the famous Spanish steps and is only a 15-minute taxi ride from tourist attractions like the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum and the Borghese Gallery. The staff are incredibly helpful and the concierge team comes highly recommended to assist you in organizing a perfect day out.

room

The rooms are comfortable and offer Sofitel MyBed® bedding, marble bathrooms, luxury bathrobes, WIFI and 24-hour room service. One of the features that stood out in the room was a portable telephone that ensures connectivity as well as a mobile network to foreign travelers.

staircase into the hotel lobby

Guests can look forward to a comfortable and stylish stay at Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese.

Hotel Reviewed by Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager of World Luxury Hotel Awards.

To view this hotel click here

To phone +39 06478021

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The NH Doelen Amsterdam, a historical masterpiece…

Resting upon the banks of the river Amstel this 5 star hotel is situated in a 17th century monument and is the oldest hotel in Amsterdam.

From the moment we arrived at Amsterdam Train station and were picked up by our luxury transfer, we were treated like royalty. When we arrived at the hotel the staff had already checked us in and immediately showed us to our room. We were treated to some cold meats and local Dutch Liquor, which was very welcome after our long trip. The hotel was absolutely stunning; modern yet still retaining its historic beauty.  Our room was spacious, light and had beautiful views over the canal. One could definitely spend some time simply staring out your window. The bathroom was amazing with a large rainfall shower, which I could have easily spent hours in.

The Buffet breakfast was absolutely divine; from the local Dutch poffertjies, to fluffy omelettes, we had a wide variety of delicious breakfast options.

In the evenings we headed down to the cocktail bar and enjoyed a glass of red wine with cheese and other snacks. The area is comfortable and beautifully decorated to make you feel relaxed and at home.

The Staff at the NH Doelen were absolutely fantastic; incredibly friendly and accommodating. We were given suggestions on where to eat and experience local cuisine, tours were organized for us as well as any transfers we required. I was even given a gift bag filled with NH Doelen goodies.

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Three days went by way to quickly at the beautiful NH Doelen Hotel and I would jump on a plane tomorrow to return for my second visit.

Review By Tanique Echardt – Executive Manager

To book this hotel go to their website: click here

Or email them: here

To view more reviews click here

 

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InterContinental Davos – A Winter Wonderland Experience

The World Luxury Hotel Awards was privileged to experience this phenomenal hotel in December 2017 after the gala ceremony on 2 December in St. Moritz, where it was awarded two global wins for Luxury Architecture Design Hotel and Luxury Hotel & Conference Centre. And it’s not hard to see why. Nestled amongst the majestic Swiss Alps and surrounded by snowy pine trees, this supremely designed hotel offers an experience for every traveler, whether it be a family or romantic ski holiday, or a business trip for a stay or conference.

The view from the rooms is incredible, overlooking Davos and the mountains, and in the winter months you even have your own personal supply of snow on your balcony, about a meter deep! This only adds to the blissful magic of being in a winter wonderland.

One of the most satisfying benefits of the hotel is the complimentary shuttle service in and out of Davos, for which we never had to wait longer than 5 minutes, if at all. Davos itself is a beautiful town filled with pubs and restaurants to discover and there is something wonderful about exploring these while walking along white roads, snow crunching below your feet, adding the special treat of being so close to Christmas time where the trees you walk past are naturally covered in snow. But if it gets too cold for you, a quick call to the hotel and the shuttle will be right there to fetch you.

The breakfast buffet was also a tremendous surprise, apart from the already large selection of food available, there was an entire Asian display on offer complete with a wide variety of Asian style foods, enough to satisfy all needs and dietary requirements. A very interesting taste sensation to add to breakfast.

The rooms are large, comfortable, clean and very luxurious with modern and beautiful bathrooms which are well worth noting. We especially enjoyed the larger than normal bath tubs and the delightful rain shower experience.

As one would expect from a hotel of this stature, all the staff from check in to the Concierge to housekeeping to breakfast were incredibly helpful and hospitable. No query went unattended and the staff were knowledgeable on every point we required assistance with. No surprise considering this hotel hosts the World Economic Forum annually.

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And if all of the above is not enough to convince you, just remember that the most beautiful way to reach this hotel is via train through the Swiss Alps… more than enough to entice a visit!

To book this breathtaking Hotel follow the details below.

website – click here

email- InterContinental.Davos@ihg.com