Tag: Luxury Hotels

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Athens Flair – A Gem in the Heart of Athens

We recently had the pleasure of staying at Athens Flair during our visit to Athens, Greece, while attending the 17th Annual World Luxury Awards Gala Ceremony, and we can confidently say it exceeded all our expectations. From the moment we walked through the door, the hotel’s commitment to excellence was evident.

Nestled in the heart of historic Athens, Athens Flair is a true gem that combines modern luxury with a touch of Greek charm.

The hotel’s unparalleled location offers convenient access to some of Athens’ most iconic landmarks. The Acropolis, Plaka, and Syntagma Square are all within walking distance, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Upon entering the hotel, there is a beautiful spiralling staircase which leads you to the reception area. Thankfully the friendly staff assisted us with our luggage and was very accommodating throughout our entire stay. Their genuine warmth and professionalism added a personal touch that made us feel like valued guests.

Our room at Athens Flair was a sanctuary of comfort and style. Spacious, elegantly furnished, and impeccably clean, with amazing views of the city. I particularly appreciated the attention to detail, from the luxurious bedding to the well-appointed bathroom stocked with premium amenities.

The hotel’s breakfast was equally impressive, featuring a variety of fresh and delicious options to suit every palate. We opted to eat in our room, however, you may also enjoy your breakfast on the rooftop terrace. The terrace has the most amazing panoramic views of the city.

In conclusion, Athens Flair is a true gem in the heart of Athens, offering a perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a leisure traveler or in town for business, this hotel is a top-notch choice. We left Athens with fond memories, and much of that credit goes to the exceptional experience provided by Athens Flair.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Jana Stoman

To book your stay at Athens Flair, visit their website: athensflair.com

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Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa

A sanctuary in the city of Johannesburg

This unique property is located in Sandton which is a popular shopping and culinary destination.

It is the perfect place for a weekend staycation, it’s great for romantic getaways and ideal for international travellers visiting Johannesburg.

I had the pleasure of staying at Fairlawns for three nights and I must say it’s a hidden gem in Johannesburg. The hotel exceeded all my expectations, and I would absolutely recommend this property to anyone visiting Johannesburg.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by the warm and friendly staff members who made me feel at home from the moment I stepped into the elegant reception. Check in was easy and after being offered a welcome drink, the porter assisted us to our suite.

You don’t feel like you are in Johannesburg when you are at Fairlawns. Clearly the hotel has put a lot of effort into the upkeep of the property. The hotel’s grounds provide a serene backdrop for a leisurely stroll through the property.

My suite was located on the first floor in a manor house style building and had a view of the surrounding landscaped gardens. The entire area just made me feel at peace and totally relaxed.

The room was generously spacious and exuded luxury and elegance. The attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the design, from the plush bedding to the tastefully chosen décor.

The bathroom had a big bathtub and a comfortable double vanity with all the necessary amenities. The housekeeping staff ensured that the room was spotlessly clean and offered us Wedgewood nougat as part of their turndown service every night. We also received a Wedgewood nougat gift upon arrival which was a lovely touch.

The spring weather was such a pleasure in Johannesburg, we opened our large bedroom windows in the morning for a fresh morning breeze and the sun shining in. Birds chirping and the sound of nature is the best way to wake up.

One can stroll around the property which has multiple seating areas and different gardens. The property has so many Instagram-worthy spots and is ideal for photoshoots.

The main hotel pool is located in the centre of the property and is the perfect place to relax in summer.

One of the highlights of my stay was the dining experience at Fairlawns Hotel’s on-site restaurant called Amuse-Bouche. The menu had a variety of tantalizing dishes with both local and international flavours. Each meal was a masterpiece, visually pleasing and with the taste to match. The restaurant also has a wine list which pairs brilliantly with the menu. The waiter offered us some of his recommendations and was enthusiastic and had great knowledge of the menu. The Beef Bourguignon Soup was my favorite dish.

Breakfast at Fairlawns was a lavish affair. They offer a buffet-style breakfast inside with a variety of fruits, cold cuts, pastries, and juices. You can also order a hot breakfast from their a la carte menu. During my stay we had amazing weather so each morning we sat outside at a table overlooking the grounds.

The setup has such a welcoming atmosphere and it’s the perfect way to start your day. I had the eggs benedict, which was done perfectly, and my friend had the avocado toast as a smaller option. The F&B manager Brenden checked in on us each morning and was so friendly and helpful.

I fell in love with the spa at Fairlawns. This is arguably one of the best spas in Johannesburg in my opinion. The spa has been designed with a Balinese style creating a tranquil ambience and makes you feel like you are in a tropical paradise. I would definitely recommend a spa day to anyone who is in Johannesburg and wanting a treat.

Before my treatment, the therapist assisted me to the spa facilities and offered me a drink and snack from their refreshments table in the reception area. The spa pool and jacuzzi was a great place to relax before a treatment. They also have a steam room, relaxation room and outdoor seating areas.

I indulged in a 60-minute aroma oil massage and Mpho, the spa therapist, left me feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on the world.

Throughout my stay, the staff went above and beyond to ensure my comfort. They always had a smile on their faces and made me feel like a valued guest.

Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a business trip, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa is the perfect choice. I can’t wait to return!

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay at Fairlawns, visit their website: fairlawns.co.za

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La Petite Ferme

Nestled in the picturesque Franschhoek valley, La Petite Ferme offers an enchanting retreat that marries luxurious comfort with breathtaking natural beauty.

From the moment we arrived, the warm and welcoming atmosphere embraced us, setting the stage for an unforgettable stay.

Our stay at La Petite Ferme was nothing short of exceptional. The accommodation seamlessly blended rustic charm with modern amenities. The spacious and well-appointed suite provided stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. The attention to detail, from the plush bedding to the thoughtful decor, made us feel right at home.

The on-site restaurant was a culinary journey that showcased the finest local ingredients. Each dish was a work of art, perfectly presented and bursting with flavor.

The staff at La Petite Ferme exhibited a level of hospitality that went beyond mere professionalism. Their genuine friendliness and willingness to accommodate our requests truly made us feel valued and appreciated. Whether it was the reception staff or the waitstaff in the restaurant, everyone ensured that our every need was met with a smile.

La Petite Ferme’s location is its crown jewel. Set against the backdrop of rolling vineyards and majestic mountains, the views are nothing short of breathtaking. Its proximity to the charming town of Franschhoek allowed for easy exploration of local boutiques, galleries, and other attractions.

Our stay at La Petite Ferme was an enchanting journey into luxury, relaxation, and culinary excellence. From the idyllic setting to the impeccable service, every aspect of our experience exceeded our expectations.

If you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a serene retreat, or simply a taste of South African paradise, La Petite Ferme is a must-visit destination.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Jana Stoman

To book this hotel, visit their website: lapetiteferme.co.za

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Grand Hotel Bristol Resort & Spa

On a recent trip to Italy, I had the immense pleasure of visiting Grand Hotel Bristol Resort & Spa, located in the beautiful town of Rapallo.

Upon arrival the front-of-house manager gave us a tour of the hotel and provided us with all the needed information for our stay. We were booked into the Riviera Suite with panoramic seafront views and let me tell you, the views were spectacular.

We were welcomed with a bottle of champagne and fruit. We enjoyed our drinks while taking in the amazing views of the Portofino Promontory.

Our suite was spacious, had a walk-in closet and a large round whirlpool. It had everything one may need while traveling. 

We visited in April; therefore, the weather did not allow for a dip in the pool, but I imagine during summer months many guests relax at the pool while sipping on an Aperol Spritz. 

The hotel has three amazing restaurants, the gourmet restaurant Le Cupole led by Chef Graziano Duca, La Veranda a charming bistrot located on the panoramic terrace, and a new restaurant, The Flamingo pool bar&pizza gourmet.

The Erre Spa Bristol covers 2.000 m² and offers a 360-degree service, from wellness journeys to a wide range of body and face treatments, as well as varied and personalized programs proposed by the Spa manager.

A pleasant sea walk leads to the center of Rapallo, from there you can also take a ferry to Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino for site seeing.

Everyone with a love for travel should visit the Portofino coast in their lifetime. It is truly the definition of living la dolce vita. I am already dreaming of going back.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Jana Stoman

To book this hotel, visit their website: www.grandhotelbristol.it

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The Kuta Beach Heritage Hotel Bali Managed by Accor

A Boutique hotel located on the beachfront of the famous Kuta Beach

The Kuta Beach Heritage Hotel is conveniently situated right by Kuta Beach, a 5-minute stroll from Kuta Square and the Kuta Art Market. The hotel blends contemporary design with fishing village-themed interiors and is the ideal destination for business and leisure travelers.

The hotel has a prime location and is a 5-minute walk from the Kuta Beachwalk shopping center which has great outlets and dining options. The airport is about a 15-minute car ride from the hotel. Right next to the hotel entrance is a convenience store, wine shop and transportation services.

From the hotel, you can go for a leisurely stroll on the beach and take in the beautiful sea views. Kuta beach is known for surfing, so I would recommend doing a surfing lesson during your stay.

My spacious room had a full view of the Kuta Beach and the bustling street below.

Many of the rooms have an ocean view and balcony, and some have direct pool access to a plunge pool.

My room was spacious and had a separate living area and study with a flat-screen TV, minibar and a balcony overlooking Kuta Beach. They also provided complimentary coffee and tea in the room daily. In-room dining is available 24 hours a day and the menu features international classics as well as local Indonesian dishes to try.

The bathroom had a luxurious bathtub and they offered bath salts as an extra amenity. The shower and toilet were private, and the double vanity featured quality amenities such as body lotion, scented hand soap and more.

The hotel also provides luggage storage in case you have a late flight and still want to explore Kuta. If you haven’t already booked sightseeing tours online, the hotel has a tour desk who can assist you with making bookings. I would absolutely recommend doing the Ubud full day tour.

The hotel’s rooftop infinity pool is the highlight of the hotel and is the perfect place to watch the sunset. Spend your day around the pool on one of the comfortable lounge chairs and relax with music playing in the background. The pool also has a bar with a variety of cocktails, you should definitely try a whole coconut.

The hotel features a spa, and I would like to mention that they offer a Traditional Balinese massage which is a must-do when in Bali. For fitness lovers, the hotel has a fully equipped gym.

Riva Bar & Restaurant has breathtaking ocean views and offers international cuisine as well as some local dishes. This is also a great spot for sunset.

The buffet breakfast is amazing, as you enter the breakfast area there are two Balinese performers playing a special instrument to add to the ambience of the hotel. The buffet offers a variety of food, including a vegetarian section, Indonesian section, sushi station and a made-to-order egg station.

The set up included traditional Balinese dishes and the staff were at your service and happy to explain the dishes to you. They also have a station that serves special juice that has Indonesian spices and herbs in, which is worth a try. Don’t forget to try their freshly made French toast with chocolate sauce. The perfect way to start your day in Bali.

The staff welcomed me with a smile every morning and made sure I was comfortable. You can also sit on one of the lounge chairs around the pool with a coffee and enjoy the view of Kuta Beach. 

The staff members are highly attentive and sincerely dedicated to ensuring your experience is exceptional. Whether it’s the buffet staff, security personnel, receptionists, or cleaning services, everyone is always eager to go the extra mile to accommodate your needs.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book this hotel, visit their website: all.accor.com/hotel/8151/index.en.shtml

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Avista Grande Phuket Karon – MGallery

Located on Karon Beach, it is the perfect choice for families and couples.

Upon arrival at the hotel, I was greeted by a friendly receptionist who offered me their Ceylon tea welcome drink and a special banana leaf candy. The check in process was quick and all the staff members greeted me with big smiles, I instantly felt at home.

The hotel has a warm welcoming ambience, and all the areas are spotlessly clean. Karon Beach is just a 2-minute walk from the hotel as well as multiple shopping options and food markets. This prime location makes Avista Grande the top choice for a luxury stay in Karon. From the hotel, you can easily explore Kata Beach, the area’s nightlife, Big Buddha and the known surfing spots.

The receptionist showed me to my Deluxe Mountain View room and advised me about breakfast times and facilities etc. My room was modern and spacious and had a beautiful mountain view from the balcony. The King Size bed felt like a fluffy cloud and was so cozy. The bathroom was also spacious and had a double vanity with a big bathtub.

Breakfast at Portosino is a lavish affair. The perfect way to start your day. The buffet was extensive and had top quality food items from various cuisines. There was a juice station where the staff prepare your juice fresh as you wait. Around the corner was their pastries and breads, a must-try are the croissants. The chefs at the egg counter can prepare your eggs just the way you like it. I tried a few dishes from the Indian corner which was packed with so much flavour (and chilli). The breakfast buffet also featured a special dish known to Thailand, and it was a different dish each morning. The breakfast staff were attentive and helpful.

The pool was the highlight of the hotel, it had a beautiful waterfall feature, sunbeds positioned all around the pool area, and a swim-up bar. You could easily spend the whole day around the pool. They played music during the day which gave the pool area a fun and hip ambience. The lunch pool menu featured classics like a Caesar salad, and delicious pizzas. The swim-up bar “Lido” has a wide range of cocktails and drinks, as well as a daily happy hour which I certainly enjoyed. I would recommend the Pina Colada cocktail.

The property has a Sino-Portuguese design and there are multiple Instagram-worthy spots around the hotel. Adding on top-class hospitality and staff who go the extra mile to make your stay memorable. The hotel has multiple restaurants available for dinner: Portosino, which is their all-day dining outlet, The Dim Sum, which is their rooftop bar, and Sizzle On Water, which is a unique dine-on-water steakhouse restaurant where you can have dinner with your feet in the water. If you are on a couples holiday, then be sure to book a dinner at this romantic restaurant.

The hotel has an award-winning spa, I would recommend you have the Thai massage, it is a must-do when in Phuket.

I had an absolutely fantastic time here and would highly recommend. Thank you to the entire Avista team.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards representative, Kayla Lourens.

To book your stay at Avista Grande Phuket Karon – MGallery, visit their website: all.accor.com/hotel/A224/index.en.shtml?

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Fancourt Resort Hotel – from the moment you arrive, guests are assured of a carefree and comfortable stay.

Fancourt offers a luxurious, contemporary and relaxed environment and with award-winning golf courses, fine dining, wellness and family-friendly facilities, it makes Fancourt perfect for any kind of traveller.

Upon arrival, my partner and I were warmly welcomed by the friendly porters’ ready to assist with our luggage and they even offered to park our vehicle for our convenience.

At the reception desk, my partner and I were served with a glass of champagne while the receptionist assured a smooth check-in process.

Jamie Cooper, the Marketing Manager took the time to introduce herself and offered her personal assistance should we need any assistance during our stay.

The porter then showed us to our One-Bedroom Suite where we were delighted to enter our room and find a complimentary wine accompanied by a hand-written note.

Each suite has a private balcony or patio with idyllic views of Fancourt’s estate. The room had a king size bed with a separate lounge area, TVs, mini bar, Coffee and tea making facilities and Wi-Fi access.

The second night we received a room upgrade and stayed in one of the suites at the Manor House. We were again surprised with a chilled bottle of champagne and they spoiled us with a beautiful towel and rose petal representation in our room, seeing that is was our honeymoon.

Guests staying at the Manor House can enjoy from 24-hour in-room dining and luxury bathroom amenities to a private pool and the beautifully appointed Manor House Library and Manor House Lounge.

My partner and I had dinner at La Cantina serving Italian cuisine. I enjoyed the best Chicken Ravioli and my partner had the most tender, flavourful T-bone steak served with salad and fries. The staff were very eager to assist with any request we might have had. Fancourt offers 4 restaurants to choose from and allows you to definitely find something to enjoy on their menus.

We enjoyed our complimentary full buffet breakfast at La Cantina since they are also Fancourt’s breakfast restaurant of choice. 

The breakfast was delicious, the buffet included, pastries, hot dishes, cold meats, cereals and more, the chef also cooked our choice of eggs upon request.

We made use of the complimentary facilities such as the Roman Bath and Jacuzzi. The area was always clean and we appreciated the fact that there were always dry towels readily available to use. The perfect temperature of the Roman bath made it easily enjoyable and we could truly relax.

We were thoroughly impressed with all of the staff that we came into contact with. We were impressed with the effort that they went through to ensure our every need was met in an unobtrusive but kind way. The housekeeping services were quick to notice when extra items in the room were needed.

Our stay at Fancourt was an absolutely unforgettable experience and one that we are bound to remember for a long time. The excellence in service, presentation and luxurious details from beginning to end will definitely ensure that we will be recommending Fancourt as a place to stay when visiting South Africa.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards representative, Chanté Ebersohn.

For more information visit www.fancourt.co.za or email: reservations@fancourt.co.za

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Five-star serviced residence, perfect for business travellers.

Joy~Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila is located in Ortigas, Pasig which is a popular business district and has multiple shopping malls within walking distance.

I enjoyed two nights in a one-bedroom suite which was spacious and comfortable. The kitchen is fully stocked and the room had high speed internet. The shower also has a steam option and there was a TV in the bathroom which was convenient.

The hotel has a rooftop bar on the 43rd floor with panoramic views of Manila Bay, it is the perfect spot for sundowners. They also serve food from the grill to accompany your cocktails.

The hotel’s main restaurant, Nostalgia Lounge & Bar, offers buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner. The breakfast was delicious, the buffet included, pastries, hot dishes, cold meats, cereals and more, the chef will cook your eggs while you wait. 

The indoor heated pool is the perfect place to relax after a long day and be sure to take a dip in the jacuzzi. The pool even has underwater music playing! The fitness center has all the necessary equipment for a good workout.

This hotel is perfect for long stays, or a short staycation when you are in Manila. The suites are pet friendly and spacious for families.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards representative, Kayla Lourens

Visit their website to make a booking: www.joynostalgmanila.com

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Hilton London Bankside – A luxury modern hotel in London City Centre.

We recently had the privilege of staying at Hilton London Bankside for three nights in a king deluxe room.

The ambience of the hotel is warm and welcoming. We were delighted to enter our room and find a complimentary drink accompanied by delectable macaroons – my sweet tooth is still dreaming of them.

We immediately felt at home, especially since the bed was extremely comfortable and plush, we had such a good night’s sleep. The bathroom was every inch of modern perfection, with interesting colours and lighting to help one relax after a day of exploring the extensive sights of London.

We were also fortunate to have access to the Executive Lounge which was very organized and had amazing food and drinks available. With their super-fast Wi-Fi this was a great place to catch up on some work.

Hilton London Bankside has a perfect location in London with many cultural and historical sites within walking distance. The Concierge surprised us with his tips on how best to navigate the area, as well as assistance in finding some interesting nearby attractions.

With a fitness centre and beautiful indoor pool, this modern contemporary hotel has everything to offer. Our time at Hilton London Bankside was such perfection, we can only say that we highly recommend you choose this hotel for all round comfort and good memories from start to finish.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Shannon Langeveldt.

Book a stay at Hilton London Bankside: www.hilton.com/en/hotels/lonsbhi-hilton-london-bankside

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Pan Pacific London – a modern urban retreat in the heart of the City of London.

When in London we had the pleasure of spending a night at Pan Pacific London. We arrived to immediately feel embraced by the ambience and were impressed with the décor which was matched by the friendly and attentive staff who welcomed us.

My partner and I enjoyed the comfort of a beautiful en-suite deluxe room with a stunning view of the city. The room was super-modern with all the amenities at hand to make one feel at home. 

We chose to dine at the in-house restaurant, Straits Kitchen, which proved to be an experience we will never forget. The restaurant serves South East Asian food with dishes from Singapore. Our favourite was the variety of small plates, which included spring rolls, prawns and vegetables, to top it all off, we indulged in the Mandarin dessert which was absolutely delicious. 

My partner and I are both very keen on keeping up with our gym routines when travelling and this was undoubtedly the best gym I have ever seen in a hotel. The gym is fully equipped with the latest technologies and is clean and organized. We also took the opportunity to have an afternoon dip in the pool at the spa, it was extremely relaxing and the setting was amazing with an incredible view of the city. 

We will definitely return to Pan Pacific London on our next visit to London.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Shannon Langeveldt

Book a stay at Pan Pacific London: www.panpacific.com/en/booking/search.html?propertyCode=pplon