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NG Afyon Wellness and Convention – an oasis in the desert…

NG Afyon is quite literally an oasis in the dessert – a welcome retreat with enticing pools, gardens and luxurious delicacies!

The region is famous for the number of hot springs that burst through the earth’s surface and NG Afyon certainly showcases this in a unique way. With no small number of different pools, at different temperatures, both in- and outdoors, the emphasis is on the importance of sustained thermal water treatment as a preventative measure rather than simply a cure for ailments. Furthermore, the spa and wellness areas cater for everyone with not only specific sections for men and women, but also a children’s area and family area. Apart from the pools and jet pools, there are hammams, saunas, steam baths, tepidarium and an outdoor waterpark for the children – the perfect getaway for the whole family!

After some ‘aqua time’, enjoy a healthy drink and snack at the Aliva Café’s little greenhouse, and get that extra oxygen boost; or unwind poolside or in one of the hotel’s many lounge areas, bar and even patisserie. The hotel is decorated in the classical French style yet gracefully incorporates the traditional ceramic and tile culture that the surrounding regions are known for. The proud collection of ceramic displays in the lobby were most interesting and enlightening

The hotel has a very big capacity. Yet despite the number of guests, NG Afyon has managed to maintain the luxury of space and privacy and the property itself is large enough that one never feels crowded. As much as NG Afyon caters perfectly to its family-orientated guests, the hotel is also very well equipped to receive business-orientated guests. It has several meeting venues, convention centre and even offers Business Wellness and Corporate Wellness packages. It is furthermore well situated, being only a 5-minute drive to the city centre, which is easily accessible by car.

Our suite had a luxurious bath which uniquely had water directly supplied from the mineral-rich thermal springs found on the property. The varied pillow options ensured a good night’s rest.

The breakfast buffet presented a huge variety of foods, in all forms and catering for all diets. It was a delight to try the many traditional Turkish foods that were on offer before heading for the pools for yet another day of blissful water wellness! NG Afyon is truly an amazing

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative Mrs. Signe Da Silva

To book a stay at this wonderful property follow the link: https://nghotels.com.tr/ng-afyon/

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Conrad Pezula… a picturesque escape to the Garden Route of South Africa

Perfectly perched on Knysna’s famous Eastern head, the Conrad Pezula was our abode for a few dreamy and inspiring days. As we entered this extraordinary hotel, we were warmly welcomed into the spectacular lobby, showcasing elegant décor and African art. The scenic golf cart ride to our room was an unusual treat and instantly connected us with the beauty of our surrounds: manicured golf greens, indigenous forest, and the sparkling Indian Ocean. 

 

The butler staff are incredibly attentive and arrive within 2 minutes that you request them. Pure indulgence! The rooms are generously sized and boast a cosy fireplace which we loved and it kept us extra warm. Walking out onto the beautiful balcony that overlooks the grand estate in the imported gowns they provided, made me feel like pure royalty. The bathroom and walk-in closet are beautifully decorated and reflect the stylish character of this iconic destination. A gorgeous bottle of Stellenbosch wine and chocolates were waiting for us on arrival and really made us feel exceptionally welcome and special. 

 

The main lodge features high ceilings, contemporary décor and beautiful earthy colours. Walking down the dramatic staircase you are met with a model of the entire estate that is 1000 hectares in total. The ground floor features an exclusive boutique, the spa as well as the two restaurants, Café Z, Zachary’s and Noah’s Champagne and Cocktail Lounge. The kitchen uses the resorts homegrown vegetables as well as locally sourced fresh ingredients to create the generously portioned and delicious cuisine, reflecting true South African flavours and hospitality. Breakfast is an event, as we were wonderfully surprised with a glass of champagne, which always made us smile – what a great way to start the day! Dinner was world class, and the chefs outdid themselves in showing off the region’s freshest produce with style, flair, passion and Decadence. 

A feature we particularly enjoyed was the Conrad Concierge App. We were able to customize our entire experience, including dinner reservations, special arrival request, and local activities – all in advance. It’s wonderful to see how technology is being embraced and used to maximize the guest experience. 

A once-in-a-lifetime memory I will take away from our stay there, was our privately guided horse ride through the deep forest on the estate. How surreal it was to experience life from this viewpoint, and it connected us with nature in such a beautiful way. Food for the soul! 

The spectrum of attractions at Conrad Pezula is vast, so we’ve had to put them on our bucket list for a return visit. These include the uniquely accessible Noetzie Beach & Pezula Private Castle, the outstanding Spa as well as their wedding and conferencing options. Conrad Pezula is one of the best luxury travel experiences in Africa and I would highly recommend it to any discerning traveler.

Michelle Snyman-Brand Manager

To Book Conrad Pezula

www.conradpezula.com

Book: conrad_pezula@conradhotels.com

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The Tintswalo Atlantic – A Magical Escape in the Table Mountain National Park

The meaning of Tintswalo is “The intangible feeling of warmth and gratitude you bestow upon someone who has given you a worthy and meaningful gift”.

Tintswalo Atlantic is a magical luxury escape with ocean-facing views in the Table Mountain National Park.
Upon arrival, we were greeted personally by the operations manager, Tatum. She showed us to our suite and gave us an interesting history of the property while making sure we were as comfortable as possible. Impeccably restored from the ravaging Cape fires – this exquisite lodge gleams with new dreaminess and luxurious flair.

We checked into the Ithica Suite, a gorgeous room designed in the traditional Greek blue and white colour scheme, also reflecting the ocean and its classic hues. The fireplace and 300-year-old tree just beyond our private balcony were my definite favourites.


Later we arrived for canapes and dinner to be greeted as well as served by the friendliest staff member, Vuyu. While we enjoyed some flavourful sundowners on the deck we took in the stunning sea views. To our surprise and absolute delight, we enjoyed front-row-seats watching whales splashing about from our table which was truly awe-inspiring. Life does not get better than this!

Sundowners with a view of the bay

The chef prepared an iconic South African inspired, 5-course meal with tastes to suit each palate, not a bite was wasted.
The special for breakfast was one of the most amazing meals my husband and I have ever shared.

During breakfast, we were greeted by General Manager Team Ryno and his lovely wife Melissa.

Upon checking out we were graciously met again by Melissa and we did the traditional wishing stone ceremony with her. Each guest who visits the boutique lodge is presented with a stone from the pebbled beach when they leave, it is then thrown back into the ocean accompanied by a special wish from the heart.

“My wish is to visit again! Thank you to the Tintswalo Atlantic team, your 5-star reputation is well deserved.”

Guest Adele Hamman

Book via Email: reception@atlantic.tintswalo.com or  Website: www.tintswalo.com/atlantic