Tag: Luxury Hotels

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THE WORLD LUXURY HOTEL AWARDS 12TH ANNUAL GALA CEREMONY

10th November 2018, AYANA Resort & Spa, Bali, Indonesia was the venue of the prestigious black-tie event celebrating the 12th anniversary of the World Luxury Hotel Awards. Over 360 guests flew in from around the world to attend the event, which awarded the world’s finest hotels for their luxury offerings and exceptional service delivery.

Set across 90-hectares along Jimbaran’s golden mile, AYANA Resort and Spa, BALI, is a world-class destination resort. As the property approaches its 22nd birthday this November, the privately-owned resort holds more fame than ever. AYANA is recognized for prolific sunset and ocean views, as well as offering a choice of five-star accommodation and facilities, coupled with the genuinely warm Balinese hospitality that has put AYANA on the map. Over the years, AYANA has received many top-shelf accolades including Luxury Honeymoon Resort Global Winner for the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2017.

Participants from over 100 countries sipped on cocktails after being welcomed on the red carpet. During the cocktail’s guests enjoyed Jegog instrumental background music followed by Okokan and Kecak dancing. Jegog is a form of gamelan music indigenous to Bali, played on instruments made from bamboo, and the Kecak Dance is a form of Balinese Hindu dance and music drama that was developed in the 1930s, but that was not all as the guests where welcomed to the gala dinner by the Panyembrama Dance, which is a traditional Balinese welcome dance followed by Gus Teja who is a maestro of the flute.

After Prof. Dr. I Gede Pitana Msc. delivered his keynote speech, the incredibly entertaining Masters of Ceremonies, twins Maria and Elizabeth Rahajeng, who are TV hosts for E! News Asia guided the audience through a dazzling awards ceremony where awards were presented to luxury hotels and resorts in over 100 categories on a Country, Regional, Continent and Global basis. Special congratulations go to the inspirational Gaia Retreat & Spa, who received the 2018 Global Hotel of the Year Award. Founded in 2005, Gregg Cave, Ruth Kalnin, Olivia Newton-John and Warwick Evans, affectionately known as G.R.O.W, set out as a close-knit team to realise a shared dream, offering the highest of standards and service excellence, true to the World Luxury Hotel Awards overall winner criteria. Gregg Cave, Co-Owner and General Manager of Gaia Retreat & Spa proudly collected the award on stage.

Gaia Retreat & Spa- Australia
Mr Gregg Cave

The prestigious Chairman’s Award is the decision of the Owner and CEO of World Luxury Hotel Awards, Brandon Lourens. This year Imrhim Inad, Director of Sales, attended the ceremony and was privileged enough to collect the award on behalf of the Velaa Private Island Resort in Maldives. This boutique private hideaway can only be described as “beyond luxury”.

Mr Imrhim Inad of Velaa Private Island with France 24 representatives Odile Franc and Vishmi Congreve and Ceo Of WLHA Mr Brandon Lourens, Executive Manager Ms Tanique Echardt and Ms Michelle Snayman Brand and Event coordinator for the World Luxury Awards Brand.

Further Global awards went to Vacala Bay Resort in Fiji who received both Luxury Contemporary Villa and Eco/Green Villa Award; Lamaraz Arts Hotel in Algeria received the Luxury New Hotel Award; Valamar All you can Holiday in Croatia received Luxury Hotel Group Award; Tintswalo Atlantic in South Africa received Luxury Beach Lodge Award and Okinawa Spa Resort EXES in Japan received Luxury Honeymoon Hotel Award just to mention a few.
The much sort after World Luxury Hotel Awards trophy was presented to winners on stage. Thereafter, the proud winners were given an opportunity for one-on-one personalised video interviews to speak about their achievement with the media.

Okinawa Spa Resort EXES in Japan

There was not a dull moment as the diners were spoiled by AYANA Resorts Executive Chef, Patrick Callarec and his team, who wowed guests with Balinese inspired 6-course meal. The food was elegantly plated and paired with the finest of wines supplied by Bali Indah and Sababay. The room was in awe as the incredibly plated food was served all at once to the entire ballroom. The fact that the food was on par with any fine dining restaurant made it even more impressive.

UNIQUE Rooftop Bar & Restaurant was the venue for the after party where guests danced to the sounds of Martin Denev, the resident DJ from Rock Bar and were entertained by Sasha on vocals.

“We congratulate all our winners for the 2018 Award Year, who through their tireless efforts and endless passion to elevate their guests experience, have received this honour tonight. True luxury is not easily attained, it takes a team of highly efficient and dedicated staff willing to go the extra mile and stop at nothing to ensure that every guest feels cared for and no challenged not solved. This is the definition of luxury, this is what makes the winners shine at the World Luxury Hotel Awards event”. Says, Michael Hunter-Smith, Group Marketing Director for the World Luxury Hotel Awards.

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“The 2019 World Luxury Hotel Awards will take place on Saturday, 12th October 2019 at Arctic Circle, Finland. The event will be hosted by Arctic TreeHouse Hotel and the gala venue SantaPark is an ideal location just before Christmas in the home town of Santa Claus. The magical Finnish Lapland is a bucket list experience and attendees can look forward to a winter wonderland, beautiful natural landscape wilderness, reindeer safaris, the phenomenon of the Northern lights, and of course Santa Claus” said Michael,“Applications to host the event in 2020 are now officially open”.

An event of this calibre would not be possible without our much-cherished sponsors France 24, Copenhagen Traveller, Caviar Spoon, Destination Golf, Santé Magazine, Singapore Brides and Spa & Wellness International who we thank for their continued support over the years. Thanks, is also extended to Bali Indah Beverindo, Captain Morgan, Coca Cola, Dewata Primi Lestari, Dolomia, Two Island Wine, Heineken Light, Kita Satu Bali, Strongbow, Global Seafood, Frizzante, Classic Fine Foods, Valrhona, Revolt and ABV Media Asia who were the sponsors here in Bali.

Please see our video of this prestigious event.

Everyone who attended the event was blown away by the professionalism of every person who works at AYANA Resort & Spa. Congratulations!

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Escape to the heart of Dubai…

Nassima Royal Hotel is located in the heart of Dubai, very close to many of Dubai’s top attractions. There are also many shops and restaurants within walking distance, including the Dubai Metro.

What an unforgettable stay, the architecture of the hotel is beautiful, and the service was exceptional throughout our stay.

We stayed in two executive rooms on the 45th floor which had amazing views of Dubai. The rooms were spacious, each had a big bath overlooking Dubai. The amenities in the room were great and they provided the most comfortable bath robes and towels.

The swimming pool was one of the best I’ve ever seen, it overlooks the Persian Gulf and many high-rise buildings. The pool bar had the most delicious cocktails and pizzas and the lounge chairs were very comfortable.

There were numerous restaurants and bars in the hotel which had a big variety of food. The breakfast was delicious, the chef made the best eggs benedict I’ve ever had. The staff were friendly and gave world class service.

The concierge staff were very knowledgeable and assisted us with booking our restaurants and excursions. For our transportation they offered us their hotel car which was so comfortable and stylish.

This hotel is definitely on my list of top hotels in Dubai and is a must visit hotel when in the city. Truly great hospitality.

Reviewed By Kayla Lourens- World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To book follow the link below

nassimaroyalhotel.com

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Relaxation and wonderful Thai hospitality at the Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas…

The Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas is situated in the centre of the busy town of Patong in Phuket. The hotel is within walking distance of the beach,shops and restaurants.

We received a Thai purple drink and a filled pastry with purple icing on top as a welcome treat and a cold towel to fight off the heat. We felt very welcome and all the staff were friendly.

We stayed two nights in a one-bedroom pool villa, which was gorgeous! A beautiful bath and a big lounge area. Our private splash pool was so great, and the pool chair was very comfortable.

There is a high tea lounge for VIP guests which offers complimentary beverages and snacks every day from 11:00am to 17:00pm which was delicious.

The swimming pool was heated and there were many poolside chairs available.  Most of the ground floor pool facing rooms are adjacent to the swimming pool so guests can just jump in from their terrace. The pool bar had daily specials on their cocktails which guests can enjoy on the chairs inside the pool.

The buffet breakfast was delicious, there was an Asian corner as well as an assortment of Indian and western food.

There was even sushi for breakfast and also a stand where you could make your own iced coffee or chocolate milk which was great.

Our entire stay including the amazing staff made our trip unforgettable. I would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone who plans on visiting Phuket.

To book this magnificent property or get more details follow the link below

http://grandmercurephuketpatong.com

 

Reviewed by Kayla Lourens – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

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A visit to remember at the Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore…

The Shangri-La Hotel is centrally located in Singapore and in close proximity to many of Singapore’s attractions.

For more than 40 years, Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore has been committed to providing luxurious service in a tropical urban oasis with hospitality from the heart.

 

Upon arrival I was greeted by a friendly porter who took my luggage and showed me to the reception desk. The entrance was stunning, I loved the green nature elements in the lobby lounge. The receptionist was very friendly and also extremely helpful.

 I stayed one night in a Tower wing deluxe room with a beautiful view of Singapore. The room was very comfortable in every way with a big bathroom and a large selection of beverages and snacks in the minibar. The television had a lot of channels to choose from and there was even a speaker in the bathroom.

The swimming pool was magnificent and large and the poolside chairs were very comfortable to relax in. The buffet Breakfast was absolutely delicious, there was a huge selection of food and beverages, and the service was swift. There were freshly squeezed juices and smoothies and a great coffee machine.

The hotel is great for leisure and business travellers, there is a big play area for children and even conference facilities. Even though the hotel is so big, my stay still felt very personal, all the staff members were friendly and diligent.

 

Unfortunately I wasn’t able to visit all the restaurants and facilities because of my limited time in Singapore but when I am in Singapore again I would definitely stay at Shangri-La and recommend it to others.

Reviewed by – Kayla Lourens – World Luxury Hotel Awards representative

To book and see more of this beautiful hotel follow the link below

Click Here

 

 

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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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Kolbe Hotel Rome; an enchanting experience from the city of Rome.

The city of Rome, Italy is an enchanting experience. Rome is a vibrant and decadent destination. It is filled with passionate Italian locals and rich history. Rome has played an important role as a political and religious capital during centuries of human civilization and should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Walking amongst the historic ruins of the Roman Forum is an experience that will leave you with goosebumps, not to mention a tour of the Colosseum where one can imagine gladiators having a brutal battle.

What made my Roman tourist experience truly special was the fact that our hotel was located right in the middle of all the important historic sites. Just a brief walk from Kolbe Hotel Rome brings you to the centre of it all.

“Surrounded by the magnificence of ancient Rome, only a few steps from the Circus Maximus and the Imperial Roman Forum, the building is located in an evocative and prestigious area right in the heart of the city.”

Kolbe Hotel Rome is a blend of modern and ancient décor; the furniture and finishing are modern and comfortable, yet the hallways are decorated with examples of ancient Roman clothing which is fascinating and really gives you an idea of what was worn back in the day

       

Upon entering the lobby guests are met with extremely friendly staff welcoming you to the hotel. The lobby leads into a contemporary bar lounge as well as the Garden Restaurant – Al Palatino. Guests can choose to sit inside or outside to enjoy a delicious gourmet meal. The garden outside is breathtaking.

“Keeping Mediterranean traditions alive, the courtyard reflects calmness, tranquility and peace. Guests can drink, dine or simply relax in this private sanctuary that is unique in all of Rome.”

The Kolbe Hotel Rome offers a variety of rooms. This includes double rooms, deluxe suites as well as family rooms. Rooms are generally decorated with maroon and light pastel colors and guests can enjoy bathroom amenities from Roberto Cavalli. One of the great features of the rooms are the big windows which open with a view of the surrounding area.

The hotel also offers great meeting and function facilities. During my stay at the Kolbe Hotel Rome, the hotel hosted a large corporate group with ease and professionalism.

Breakfast is served as an informal affair and leaves guests to help themselves to coffee and snacks from the buffet. This provides a relaxed environment for families or businessmen that want to grab a quick snack before heading to the next meeting.

Overall it was a wonderful stay that provided me quick access to the best that Rome has to offer.

Reviewed By Michelle Snyman

Brand Manager World Luxury Awards

To see more of this hotel click here

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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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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”.

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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