Tag: luxury lifestyle

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W Retreat & Spa Bali a design masterpiece

The W Retreat & Spa Bali Seminyak

W Retreat & Spa Bali

Sensational Seminyak, home of the W Retreat & Spa Bali, was my epic destination for a recent business trip to the region. Getting to the hotel you will find yourself weaving your way through the lively cultural area, streets spilling over with locally produced artworks, shops and restaurants.

W Retreat & Spa Bali

Approaching the hotel you are lead through a vibrant green tunnel of foliage – a magnificent sight!

W Retreat & Spa Bali

I walked into a gorgeous display of red lip shaped chocolates and music when arriving at my beautiful room… one of the quirky touches that just made me smile.

W Retreat & Spa Bali

Another memorable experience was breakfast at the Fire Restaurant, where you get to choose your own coffee mug in an Alice-in-Wonderland type experience – A truly unique and bold approach to luxury hospitality! They serve generous portions of Westernised dishes, all housed in beautiful architecture and chandelier clad

W Retreat & Spa Bali

W Retreat & Spa Bali

Innovation and intuition encounter a free-spirited and vivacious energy – a perfect synergy providing both an exciting vacation experience as well as a relaxing one, depending on what you’re in the market for. Think top International DJ’s and fashionable events lined up year round, drawing in people from around the world to share in this exciting atmosphere.   

W Retreat & Spa Bali

W Bali is a highlight in Seminyak. Not only is this hotel a lot of fun, but the staff are amazing. I lost my cell phone charger (and the device was a unique model), within an hour they had purchased me a new one, even though the local shop had already closed for the day. Now that is extraordinary hospitality and one that I will never forget. I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Bali.

Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager

to book click W Retreat & Spa Bali Seminyak 

or Email: whotels.bali@whotels.com

To view more reviews click here

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Amanzi Island Lodge… a very special coastal retreat

Amanzi Island Lodge

Amanzi island Lodge

When you arrive at a destination, and you are met with playful bicycles and kayaks, you know that you are stepping into an adventure!

Quietly nestled overlooking the spectacular Knysna lagoon, discover Amanzi Island Lodge… a very special coastal retreat.

Amanzi island Lodge

Amanzi island Lodge operates like a private luxury home. Guests have access to full kitchen, dining and living areas – exuding a sense of home-away-from-home. The fridge is stocked and we helped ourselves to wonderful beverages at leisure. We particularly loved the daily high-tea, reminiscent of a bygone era.

Amanzi island Lodge

The look-and-feel of this laid-back luxury lodge is one of serenity. Clean coastal white walls, pastel blue interiors, and wooden textures lay the background tone to vacation bliss. Unique decor furniture pieces and contemporary modern artwork adorn the walls – attributing style and artistic expression.

Amanzi island Lodge

We were fortunate enough to stay in the Honeymoon Kingfisher Suite, and it was spectacular. The suite epitomizes ultimate luxury and features its own lobby, walk in closets (every girl’s dream!), spacious bathroom, wrap-around deck, pool and of course, all this looking out onto the breathtaking Knysna lagoon.

Amanzi island Lodge

The property also features a computer room, beautiful garden, swimming pool as well as multiple comfortable sitting corners to enjoy a good book. The team is incredibly friendly and they went well out of their way to provide a memorable and beautiful experience for us.

Amanzi island Lodge

Amanzi Island Lodge is one of Knysna’s best-kept secrets and would be the most amazing honeymoon option for couples or for a family holiday where there are flexible self-catering options available.

Amanzi island Lodge

Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager World Luxury Hotel Awards

for more information visit www.amanzilodge.co.za
or Book: info@amanzilodge.co.za

To view more reviews click here 

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Head Over Hills For this Luxury Retreat

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat is located high up on the famous Knysna Heads. This luxurious guest house opens out onto a large deck, infinity pool and one of the most breathtaking views I have ever seen. The view overlooks the majestic blue ocean below and staggering cliffs. Watch these light up at sunset, when the sky transforms into a kaleidoscope of pink and blue. The location and atmosphere of this property is rare and precious.

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

This intimate boutique guesthouse is the ultimate in relaxation. We could kick off our shoes and relax at leisure as if in the comfort of our own home. The house is beautifully decorated with modern and elegant features that flow with the oceanic surroundings. Above all, it has an incredible warmth, combined with luxury and class.

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

The 8 luxury rooms are spacious and the bathrooms are enormous. The owners have spared no expense in ensuring only the best is offered, but the most impressive feature is the Hästens bed. These Swedish manufactured, specialized beds were amazing and we slept so soundly – all contributing to a truly relaxing stay. One of my top treats was the Smeg fridge filled with complimentary beverages – how wonderful!

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

Dining was an event all on its own… The charismatic and hospitable staff hosted us on both evenings, and they never failed to impress. Impeccable meals were served using fresh ingredients, and of course were presented beautifully to round off the experience.

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat
Delicious oysters

By the time we left, I felt like family. They hosted us with so much warmth and care that we were instantly bonded. The owners of Head over Hills are passionately involved with the daily operation of their bespoke property, and they remain shining examples of what it means to provide outstanding and world-class hospitality.

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

They have recently also launched Head over Hills Travels, an expert travel company that specializes in booking a dream South African holiday. www.headoverhillstravel.co.za

Michelle Snyman- Brand Manager World Luxury Hotel Awards


“This property is remarkable and showcases one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa. Make sure you experience this at least once!”
www.headoverhills.co.za
Contact: info@headoverhills.co.za
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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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Azamare Luxury Guest House A Seaside Masterpiece

Camps Bays Azamare Guest House has blown us away with our recent sublime stay…

Azamare is elegantly perched on a prime coastal real estate, overlooking the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, and cushioned by the fynbos-clad Twelve Apostles Mountains. Attention to detail is evident throughout, from the lush and luxurious finishes to the attentive and intuitive guest service we experienced.

This was a perfect nest from which we explored the famous Camps Bay strip and surrounding attractions, while still enjoying privacy and quiet from our cocooned abode. Not that we needed to get out much, to be honest…

The full English breakfast was scrumptious, and our laid-back wine time in the evenings was just surreal, especially paired with Cape Town’s pink and orange complimentary sunsets.

A special thank you to Jan & the Azamare team for going above-and-beyond in creating and hosting our magical travel experience

Reviewed By Elizma Graham – World Luxury Hotel Awards

 

To book, contact their team on +27 21 4390682 or info@azamare.com

www.azamare.com

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A Luxurious Break In The Cape Town City Centre

Pepperclub Hotel & Spa

Located in the heart of Cape Town South Africa Pepper Club Hotel & Spa is a prime business and leisure hotel

A glass of decadent bubbly and a warm towel to refresh as we entered the uber stylish and glamorous Pepperclub Hotel & Spa was a fantastic start!

High up on the 14th floor, we checked into our luxurious studio apartment overlooking the majestic Cape Point. A sliding door opening up onto our balcony welcomed the fresh Autumn air and the famous Lionshead and Table Mountain – Cape Town’s pride and joy!

Ideally located, we took a short stroll and explored the sights, smells, and sounds of bustling Long Street. We loved the energy of Long Streets diverse cultures and endless pubs, clubs, divine eateries and boutique shopping spots that line the pavements.

Prepare to be ‘wowed’ by the onsite restaurant, Sinatra’s, decadent buffet style breakfast! An over-the-top display of culinary genius is spread out for patrons… it never disappoints. Definitely, make a plan to dine here if you are ever in Cape Town.

Popcorn and front-row movie seats to the hotels private retro 60’s style cinema were definitely on the cards, competing with a quick dip in the hotels 8th floor heated swimming pool… a treat in the cooler Autumn weather.

 Wellness is a priority at the Pepperclub, where we found the stunning Cayenne Spa which is incredibly serene and ultimately relaxing. We noticed some guests having a leisurely workout in their Fitness Centre which is fully furnished with the latest cardio and strength training equipment – all the while gazing over the pristine Table Mountain.

We checked out of this hotel with treasured memories and a great love for this exquisite property. We also would like to wish all the staff and management the very best for their 3rd season competing in the World Luxury Hotel Awards! It’s easy to see why the Pepperclub Hotel & Spa has won titles in both 2015 and 2016 – standing out as one of Cape Towns finest luxury hotels!

“From all of us at Pepperclub Hotel & Spa, we would like to thank the World Luxury Hotel Awards for this distinguished award, we are really honoured by your recognition. 2016 has been a great and successful year for our hotel, and we are proud of our team for their dedication, commitment and hard work. We strive to deliver on our service promise, and delivering exceptional service to our guests is our mission and commitment. -Says Josiah Montsho general manager of Pepperclub Hotel & Spa”

Melissa Hofmann – World Luxury Hotel Awards

To view more or book online click www.pepperclub.co.za

Book: info@pepperclub.co.za

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Architectural Wonder In Ubud Bali

The Hanging Gardens of Bali is an architectural wonder, located in the heart of the Balinese jungle. The property and location can be described as sacred, as it is one of the most beautiful and peaceful regions in the world. Nestled on top on a hill and surrounded by natural forest, the Hanging Gardens of Bali provides the essence of luxury, while still preserving Balinese history and protecting the natural environment.

With 700 local craftsmen using traditional materials and adapting indigenous ideas, the resort took shape in the heart of Ubud. A winding path of 88 steps leads from the reception to the restaurant; built with Feng Shui principles to mean infinity and stability of energy: an important factor when building on a 45-degree angle

The creation of Hanging Gardens of Bali also resulted in providing the first telephone lines and electricity to the local villagers.

Getting to the property is an exciting experience as you travel, away from the busy Denpasar centre, you enter the rural area which is decorated with an abundance of beautiful green rice lands and local villages.

While dodging a few local villagers on scooters, you will get to view village life, beautiful temples and Hindu offerings. Arriving guests will travel a narrow road the top of a hill to reach the reception of the hotel. Guests can then look forward to taking an outdoor tram to the different levels of the property. It is a unique and exciting experience.

The resort features a private boutique, a magnificent restaurant and deck that overlooks the legendary pool, 44 private villas as well as an out-of-this-world spa.

The property overlooks the ancient holy Dalem Segara Temple. The resort offers guests the option of a personal chef to serve an exclusive and private gourmet dinner at the temple or you can experience one of the 6 dining areas in the resort.

The luxurious Spa Collection combines natural, local ingredients and ancient techniques, to create beauty therapies and treatments that soothe the mind, rejuvenate the body and energise the soul.

The property offers a variety if authentic Balinese experiences, from private cooking classes to a picnic by the river and even embarking on a spiritual journey and teaching of the Balinese Blessing.

“The owner and staff of The Hanging Gardens create a once in a lifetime experience. I consider it a privilege to have visited a place of such beauty and spiritual wellness”

 

Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager at World Luxury Hotel Awards

Contact Hanging Gardens of Bali

To book contact reservations@hanginggardensofbali.com

Or view this beautiful award winning hotel online via www.hanginggardensofbali.com

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Reviving The Senses At Constance Ephelia

Upon arrival, the sheer size of the resort is soon revealed – 120 hectares of absolute bliss! Spanning two large beaches (one situated in a marine park), a vast mangrove forest, cliff-side views, hiking trail, spa-village and several restaurants, Constance Ephelia certainly leaves one spoilt for choice.

Our spacious senior suite was on the north beach and had a very large balcony with views overlooking the picturesque Port Launay bay. A pillow menu was provided to ensure optimum rest – essential if one aims to explore all that Constance Ephelia has to offer.

The boathouses and fitness centers ensure hours and hours of activities – from zip lining and rock climbing to diving and sailing. Canoeing is a must! From an exclusive mangrove tour to the gentle sway of the open ocean, the views are a sight to behold. The Ros Lepa hiking trail will take you back in time to the age of discovery through lush palm groves, ancient boulders, and wild vanilla.

When you’ve had your fill of action packed adventure, head to the secluded spa village for some well-deserved relaxation, where you are sure to be pampered with exotic natural products by the finest masseuses.

Situated on the western side of the island, Constance Ephelia makes for breath-taking sunsets. When the day is almost spent, head to the helipad for an intimate picnic as the hues of twilight adorn the evening sky overlooking the bay. For a more festive sunset experience, Seselwa Bar at the north beach is the perfect place to kick off your shoes and embrace the night ‘a la Creole’ style!

The resort has 5 fine restaurants to choose from, each with different themes – from the signature dishes at Cyann to the buffet at Corossol. A truly entertaining culinary display are the chefs at Asian restaurant Adam & Eve, as they lure the enormous flames from the fire pit to the wok to achieve a smoky taste otherwise unattainable.

As with everything at Constance Ephelia, the breakfast buffet certainly presents a luxurious selection with a variety of exotic fruits.

With several boutiques at your disposal selling day to day necessities and handmade traditional crafts to a unique line of clothing, be sure to take a little bit of Constance Ephelia home with you when you leave. A magical place to revive the senses indeed!

Guest Signe Da Silva – Awards Representative

Contact information

To book contact Info@epheliaresort.com

Or view this beautiful award winning hotel online via www.constancehotels.com

 

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Constance Lemuria an escape to paradise…

As the giant wooden doors opened to the strike of the gong, our ceremonious reception at Constance Lémuria certainly set the tone for the paradise that we would soon step into. Boasting 3 pristine beaches, the fabled ‘coco de mer’ palms, 3-tier swimming pool, serene spa, 4 lavish restaurants, 5 bars, and the only 18-hole championship golf course in the Seychelles, this truly is paradise revealed!

Ideally situated on the northwest coast of the quieter Praslin Island, this resort is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle that tires the soul. Despite the size of the resort, the personal touch of friendly staff manage to make every guest feel esteemed. Mr Arumugam, our butler personally ensured that we were treated like royalty for even the smallest request.

Suits are designed with complete comfort in mind – a trait that is echoed by the excellent room service.

A visit to the concierge will soon reveal the extent of activities on offer, and it would be worth your while to explore the wealth of marine life that lies below.

Not only does the island act as nesting ground for sea turtles, but Lémuria has an active turtle conservation program. Before long, we were whisked away to the scene where a hawksbill turtle was laying her eggs – a precious and exclusive experience never to be forgotten. The Constance Hotels and Resorts group also combine environmental responsibility and sustainable management by Energy and water saving, recycling, composting or protection of the local fauna and the flora which is incorporated into each of the hotels in the group.

Whether a golfer or not, the scenery alone is sure to get you strolling up the hills. We had the privilege of an unforgettable sundowner at the famed and scenic ‘tee 15’, where it was our pleasure to have met the Food and Beverage Director of the Constance Group, Mr. Giany Bundhooa and having gained insight into the many challenges faced by luxury restaurants on secluded islands, we can truly say that Giany and his team have found a way to turn challenges into masterpieces.

“We spare no expense to provide each guest with an ultimate luxury experience.” Said Giany

Of the many restaurants available, the Nest certainly was a treat for the senses! True to its name, the Nest is a very exclusive deck restaurant, perched upon the rocks almost entirely surrounded by the ocean. It quickly became clear that the bartender, Karthick, has mastered the art of mixology when he designed two new cocktails before our eyes – the making of which was as enjoyable to watch as the taste! Of the set-seafood dinner menu, so much can be said, yet words will never truly capture a culinary experience that must be lived and not spoken – superb!

As expected, good wine is certainly held in high esteem at any of the resort’s elegant restaurants, with Diva boasting an award winning 58 page wine menu and in-house sommelier.

Arranged especially for our wedding anniversary, we were treated to an exclusive picnic at Anse Georgette Beach. What a marvellous experience!

As the rumour goes, Praslin is a little piece of paradise that broke away from the Garden of Eden. Based on our experience at Lémuria, we certainly won’t disagree! Thank you Press Liaison, Isabelle for making our stay an unforgettable one!

Guest Signe Da Silva – Awards Representative

Contact information

To book contact resacoord@lemuriaresort.com

Or view this beautiful award winning hotel online via www.constancehotels.com

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Iconic Resort Earns Two Spots In Guinness World Records


Port Dickson, 14 March 2017 –  Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson is now the official proud record holder of Guinness World Records for achieving “The most swimming pools in a resort at 643” and “The most overwater villas in single resort at 522”. These records were determined by a research which was verified on 14 October 2016.

YB Dato’ Mas Ermieyati (2nd right) and Swapnil Dangarikar (2nd left) flanked by Dato’ Low Tak Fatt (L) and Mandy Chew Siok Cheng (R) with the achievement plaques

In a ceremony witnessed by Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism YB Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin representing Tourism and Culture Minister YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri b Abdul Aziz and amongst other high-profile guests, the event saw Mr Swapnil Dangarikar, representative from Guinness World Records handing over the two plaques to YBhg Dato’ Low Tak Fatt, managing director of Kuala Lumpur Metro Group, owner of Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson and Ms Mandy Chew Siok Cheng, President of Lexis Hotel Group, the operator of Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson.

In reading the minister’s speech, YB Datuk Mas Ermieyati said it was a proud achievement for the country to have obtained the accolades from a prestigious institution, known for its documentation of record-breaking feats.

“A rather lengthy process had to take place whereby an accredited consultant had to be engaged to study the attempt and comparison made with other such similar developments around the world. Not many people can boast of such achievements and I, therefore, encourage more Malaysians, whether as individuals or corporate companies, to emulate Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson. This will definitely help to put Malaysia in a positive spotlight and at par with the rest of the world.”

The triumphs by Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson further strengthens its commitment to promoting tourism in Port Dickson, which continues to see increased demand for luxurious accommodation from discerning travellers, covering business and leisure segments from both local and overseas. With plenty of job opportunities being offered to the locals, the resort has contributed positively towards the Malaysia tourism industry. As of to date, the properties within Lexis Hotel Group have attracted more than 3.2 million tourists from across 119 countries and in a short span of less than two years since its opening in 2015, Lexis Hibiscus alone had received more than 630,000 tourists. Lexis has also brought in tourism dollars to the state. Assuming a conservative expenditure figure of just RM1,000 per guest, Lexis have already contributed more than RM3.2 billion in tourism receipts.

In addition to the Guinness World Records achievements, Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson has also won other prestigious awards, such as the World Luxury Hotel Awards for the Luxury Water Villa Resort for Southeast Asia Category in 2016 and more recently, the BrandLaureate SMEs Signature Awards for the Best Brand in Hospitality for Hotels and Resorts.

Nestled along Pasir Panjang beach, the iconic Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson resembles the national flower of Malaysia and is the largest water homes development in the world, at 639 villas. Each of its spacious pool villas is tastefully decorated and comes with its own private dip pool and steam room for luxury and privacy – an unassailable achievement by any standard.

Complementing the villas are a host of exciting dining options, while Lexis Hibiscus’ range of function spaces are specially tailored for MICE needs. A diverse choice of recreational activities are available, from a spa providing rejuvenating treatments to a kids’ club well as a karaoke centre.

Sun and thrill seekers will have fun with a range of beach, water and team building activities, all focused around the tallest seawater fountain in Malaysia at 400 feet. The Hibiscus Walk, located at the beachside, provides guests a sampling of Malaysian cuisine as well as a wellness centre providing therapeutic massages.

For more information on the resort, please visit www.lexishibiscuspd.com

About Lexis Hotel Group

Lexis Hotel Group provides discerning leisure and business guests with practical and luxurious accommodations across various properties in Malaysia. It is steadfast in offering professional management services for hotels and resorts and has successfully built a strong, profitable and visible premier niche brand in the hospitality industry especially in managing award-winning unique water chalets as well as pool villas. The brand currently manages three properties, namely Lexis, Grand Lexis and Lexis Hibiscus, all located in Port Dickson. Another upscale property, Lexis Suites Penang, opened for business in 1st quarter of 2016.

 To contact reservations team please email: reservations@lexishibiscuspd.com

Or book online at: http://www.lexishibiscuspd.com