Author: Kayla Lourens

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Kata Rocks – A Slice of Modern Luxury in Phuket

From the moment you arrive at Kata Rocks, it’s clear this isn’t just another beachfront resort—it’s a luxury experience designed for those who appreciate privacy, style, and breathtaking views.

Tucked into the hillside between Kata and Kata Noi beaches, Kata Rocks offers a perfect balance of seclusion and access. The villas are stunning—each with its own private infinity pool that overlooks the Andaman Sea. Watching the sunset from the pool, drink in hand, feels like a dream.

Our one-bedroom villa was impeccably designed—sleek, spacious, and filled with natural light. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors opened to reveal an expansive terrace and a private infinity pool with panoramic ocean views. The interiors struck a perfect balance between high-tech convenience and minimalist elegance, creating a tranquil and indulgent retreat. One of our favorite features was the automatic blinds, which opened at the push of a button to reveal the most breathtaking ocean views—a perfect way to start each morning.

We also appreciated the thoughtful practical touches, like the in-villa washing machine, provided laundry detergent, and clothes horse—super convenient for refreshing our swimwear and clothes during our stay.

When we arrived, we were greeted with the most thoughtful birthday surprises. A birthday “cake” made of towels, alongside a rich chocolate mousse dessert with edible rocks, and a handwritten birthday card. It was personal, charming, and instantly made us feel at home.

Another thoughtful touch was the resort-provided cell phone, which we kept with us during our stay. We used it to call for the buggy service, which transported us effortlessly from our villa to the main entrance near Kata Beach. The buggy was available any time of day and made getting around incredibly convenient. We also loved that the Kata area is so walkable—you can explore Kata Beach (gorgeous at sunset), local massage parlours, shops, and even a 7-Eleven, all just steps away.

Each morning began with a delicious à la carte breakfast. From tropical fruits and fresh juices to Thai-inspired dishes and perfectly brewed coffee, every detail was thoughtfully executed. The Tom Yam Eggs Benedict was a standout, packed with flavor and a unique Thai twist. I also enjoyed their house-made smoothies and the vanilla latte. One morning, when I wasn’t feeling well, a kind waitress noticed and offered to bring me some soothing ginger tea. Her gesture made all the difference.

The Restaurant impressed us throughout our stay. Breakfasts were relaxing and plentiful, and sunset cocktails by the water were a highlight of each day. For lunch one afternoon, we had the smoked salmon pizza and French fries—simple but delicious, and exactly what we wanted poolside.

The main pool is absolutely breathtaking, especially during golden hour. The loungers in the pool are unbelievably comfortable, perfect for enjoying a fresh coconut (or a cocktail!) while soaking up the views. Staff are always close by if you want to order something without ever leaving your lounger.

The spa was another highlight of our stay. Calm, sleek, and instantly soothing, the ambiance is perfect from the moment you walk in. My sister and I had an aromatherapy full-body massage in a couples’ room, and it was such a relaxing experience.

What truly elevated our experience, however, was the exceptional staff. Warm, professional, and consistently attentive, the team at Kata Rocks made every moment feel special. Whether offering local recommendations, ensuring seamless dining experiences, or simply greeting us with genuine smiles, the service was consistently world-class. A special thank you to Katie at the front desk, who looked after us throughout our stay with such care and kindness.

Kata Rocks is ideal for couples, honeymooners, or anyone looking for a serene, luxurious escape. While it’s not the place for a buzzing nightlife scene, if you’re seeking tranquility, elegance, and ocean views that are hard to beat, this resort delivers in every way.

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay at Kata Rocks, visit their website: www.katarocks.com

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Exceptional Stay at Le Méridien Bangkok – A Perfect Urban Escape

I recently spent 3 nights at Le Méridien Bangkok in a Deluxe Room with views of the city, and the entire experience was outstanding. From the moment I arrived, the service was warm, genuine, and consistently excellent.

A special note of appreciation goes to Nita at the front desk, whose professionalism and kindness set the tone for my stay. She was incredibly helpful during check-in, offered great local tips, and was always cheerful and professional.

Equally worth mentioning is the female security guard at the front entrance, who greeted me every morning with the warmest and most genuine smile. Her presence made me feel safe and at home. It’s small gestures like these that really make a hotel stay memorable.

My Deluxe Room was spacious, well-designed, and very comfortable. It had a calm, modern aesthetic, with floor-to-ceiling windows that brought in lots of natural light. The bed was plush and cozy, and the amenities were thoughtful and high quality. Housekeeping was prompt and meticulous, ensuring everything stayed spotless throughout my stay.

One of the standout features of the property is its excellent breakfast buffet. It easily ranks among the best I’ve experienced globally. The variety was incredible, from fresh tropical fruits and pastries to made-to-order eggs, Thai dishes, and Western favorites. The quality and freshness of everything on offer made breakfast a daily treat I looked forward to.

The property has an awarded barbeque restaurant, Rolling Ribs Brew Bar & BBQ, and the quality of the food was exceptional—especially the beef burger and chips. The burger was incredibly juicy, flavorful and perfectly cooked.

The hotel has a luxury spa and fitness centre on the sixth floor, next to the swimming pool. The spa offers a tranquil retreat with a range of holistic treatments inspired by European luxury traditions, tailored for the modern traveler. Additionally, the Flow Onsen, featuring mineral-rich waters imported from Japan, is a serene space to unwind.

The gym is a 24-hour facility equipped with Matrix machines and offers panoramic city views through its floor-to-ceiling windows.

I also enjoyed some relaxing time by the swimming pool; it offered a tranquil escape amidst the urban energy. Surrounded by stylish loungers and thoughtful landscaping, it provided the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the city. It also has views of the iconic Mahanakhon.

In terms of location, Le Méridien Bangkok is ideally situated for both business and leisure travelers. It is central, vibrant, and close to everything. Whether you’re looking to shop, dine, or access public transport, everything is just a short walk away. Despite being in such a busy part of Bangkok, the hotel itself feels quiet and peaceful once you’re inside.

In every aspect—from personalized service to culinary excellence and refined aesthetics—Le Méridien Bangkok delivers a luxury experience rooted in comfort, culture, and care. I would gladly return and highly recommend this property to travelers seeking high-end accommodations with heart and soul in the heart of Bangkok.

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay at Le Méridien Bangkok, visit their website: www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/bkkdm-le-meridien-bangkok/overview

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Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa – A Peaceful Slice of Paradise in Phuket

I spent three nights at Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa in Phuket, and it was a truly relaxing experience.

The resort is tucked away on a private stretch of Nakalay Bay, located between Patong and Kamala, which makes it a convenient spot if you want a peaceful setting that’s still close to more lively areas. The surroundings are scenic, and the location worked well as a relaxing place to stay while having access to explore other parts of the island.

We stayed in one of the resort’s Beachfront Cottage Rooms, which offered a comfortable stay with beautiful ocean views.

The room was incredibly spacious, with high ceilings, charming Thai-style decor, and sliding doors that opened directly onto the beach. Stepping out onto the private terrace each morning, with the ocean just a few feet away, felt like a dream. The bed was comfortable, the air-conditioning worked flawlessly (which was necessary in the April heat), and the room was well-maintained throughout our stay. A special thank you to Gift, our housekeeper.

One of the standout features of Thavorn Beach Village is its lush, tropical landscaping. The resort boasts beautifully maintained gardens with Thai statues, koi ponds, and plenty of spots to sit and soak in the views.

The lagoon-style pool is absolutely stunning. It’s massive—one of the largest in Southeast Asia—and winds through the resort like a tropical river. We spent hours lounging poolside, and it never felt overcrowded. The pool also has a swim up bar and daily happy hour specials. I enjoyed a fresh young coconut in the pool.

The private beach was also a highlight. While the tide goes out during part of the day (making it more rocky in some areas), the views are still amazing, and the sunsets were magical. It’s also great for kayaking or just strolling along the shore.

Breakfast each morning was excellent. The buffet offered a wide range of both Western and Asian options—fresh fruit, pastries, eggs made to order and local Thai dishes. We appreciated the wide variety of juices and the beautiful open-air dining space overlooking the pool and gardens.

Lunch at the Crocodile Bar & Grill was relaxed, with the restaurant located right on the beach. I had a fresh mango smoothie and a Caesar salad, while for dinner, we enjoyed cocktails along with a burger and chips each.

The Thai Sala Bakery is open daily and is the perfect place for a fresh juice, a coffee or ice cream. It is located right next to the pool.

The resort also offers an unforgettable private dining experience right on the beach, perfect for a romantic evening or special celebration.

Throughout our stay, the staff were polite and helpful. Check-in was smooth, and we were given a welcome drink upon arrival. A special thank you to Mercedes who looked after us at the front desk.

Overall, Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a peaceful beachfront escape in Phuket.

The combination of beautiful natural surroundings, comfortable accommodations, and warm hospitality made our stay memorable. Whether you’re visiting with family, a partner, or even on a solo retreat, this resort offers an ideal setting to unwind, recharge, and enjoy the beauty of Thailand.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay, visit their website: www.thavornbeachvillage.com

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The Stratford

A contemporary luxury design hotel in London

I had the pleasure of spending three nights at The Stratford Hotel, located in East London’s vibrant area of Stratford. From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the hotel’s contemporary design and welcoming atmosphere.

The Stratford Hotel is conveniently situated close to Stratford International Station, making it easy to reach central London and other areas. Another highlight is that the hotel is within short walking distance of Westfield Stratford City, which is my favourite shopping mall.

The check-in experience was efficient and pleasant. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to assist with any questions. They also upgraded us to a bigger room which was highly appreciated.

My room was located on the sixth floor and was spacious and thoughtfully designed, it felt both modern and comfortable. The floor-to-ceiling windows provided views of the city skyline and brought in plenty of natural light. The bathroom was stylish and featured a rainfall shower and luxury amenities.

The hotel offers a fully equipped gym with a variety of machines and ample open space for personal workouts.

Breakfast was served in the lobby restaurant and was buffet style. Additionally, there was a menu of hot and cold dishes that the chef could prepare fresh upon request. Every morning, I tried something different from the menu, I enjoyed the Shakshuka dish the most. The blueberry pancakes were also delicious.

Whether you’re in London for business or leisure, this hotel provides a chic, comfortable, and memorable stay. The friendly staff, modern design, and range of amenities make it a place I would highly recommend and would gladly return to for future visits.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay, visit their website: www.thestratford.com

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The Waldorf Hilton, London

An iconic hotel situated in the heart of the theatre district of London

My stay at The Waldorf Hilton, London was truly an elegant and memorable experience. This iconic hotel perfectly blends historic charm with modern luxury and is a great choice for those who want to experience the vibrancy of London.

The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of most of the renowned theatres and best of all, it’s close to Covent Garden, my favorite spot for shopping and dining.

The check-in process was smooth, with friendly staff who welcomed me with a glass of prosecco, making me feel instantly at home. I arrived at the hotel in the morning, so my room was not yet ready, but the staff provided me with access to their executive lounge, which offered complimentary drinks, snacks, and free Wi-Fi.

The room was spacious, featuring a king-sized bed, a workstation, and a view overlooking the street and nearby historic buildings. The bathroom had a double vanity, a comfortable shower as well as luxury amenities. I had one of the best nights of sleep in this bed; the pillows were incredibly soft.

The hotel has a fully equipped gym, an executive lounge, and their elegant ballroom which is ideal for events. The “Palm Court” ballroom has been featured in famous films like Titanic and Rocketman.

I had a delicious dinner at the hotel’s Homage Restaurant, which offered a modern, eclectic menu. The décor in the restaurant is classic and contemporary and has a romantic ambience.

I had the pumpkin tart as a starter, which was surprisingly light and fluffy. I had the chicken breast for main course, and it was the softest chicken I have ever eaten. Saving the best for last, I ordered two desserts – firstly the chocolate dome, and the star of the show, their Honey Cake with crunchy honeycomb as well as fresh honeycomb which melts in your mouth. 10/10 dessert.

After dinner, I headed to Good Godfrey’s Bar and Lounge for a drink. It is a beautifully decorated luxury bar with talented barmen and a variety of creative cocktails. I told the barman I like passionfruit, so he made me a passionfruit martini, and it was divine. The perfect way to end my night.

For breakfast it was a buffet also served in their Homage Restaurant and featured freshly baked pastries, cereals, and healthy options as well as a menu to order hot meals and drinks. I ordered avocado toast and a cappuccino, which was just what I needed to start my day. The waiters were attentive and welcoming.

Overall, The Waldorf Hilton, London captures luxury, heritage, and comfort in one. It is the perfect choice for a sophisticated city stay. I look forward to returning for another visit.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay, visit their website: www.hilton.com/en/hotels/lonwahi-the-waldorf-hilton-london

Homage restaurant: https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/homagerestaurant/luxury-hotel-awards

Good Godfrey’s: https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/goodgodfreysbarandlounge/luxury-hotel-awards

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Hilton London Heathrow Airport

Modern Luxury Hotel located near Heathrow Airport

I stayed at Hilton London Heathrow Airport for one night as part of a business trip to London. The hotel is exceptionally convenient for travelers due to its direct access to Terminal 4 via a covered walkway, making it ideal for those with early flights or layovers.

The check-in process was smooth and quick, which was a relief after a long journey. The receptionist was professional and welcoming, and provided all the necessary information about the facilities and amenities.

The room was modern, clean, and well-designed, with comfortable bedding and a good range of amenities, including a coffee machine, mini fridge, and workspace. I particularly appreciated the blackout curtains, which made it easy to rest, and the spacious bathroom with a big shower.

The hotel offers a fitness center, which was a nice addition. Though I didn’t have time to use it, the gym appeared clean and well-equipped. The hotel has an executive lounge, available to Hilton Honors members, which is ideal if you have a later flight but need to check out, then you can relax in the lounge until it’s time for your flight. In the evening, they have a “happy hour” where they serve complimentary snacks and drinks to guests.

On the lobby level of the hotel, they offer “The Market”, a self-service shop with all the essentials. They stock fresh food and drinks, alcohol, a coffee machine, and even souvenirs from London.

The breakfast buffet was extensive, with a good range of hot and cold options, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices. They also had a made-to-order eggs station as well as fresh pancakes with chocolate sauce.

OXBO Restaurant is available throughout the day as the main dining venue. They also have a lovely bar at the restaurant.

The hotel has its own Chef’s Garden where herbs, vegetables and fruits are grown and used in the OXBO Restaurant.

For dinner, I opted for room service as it was late at night, and I was exhausted from traveling. I ordered through their online app and the food arrived fresh and warm. I had the cheeseburger and chips, and I must say it was one of the best burgers I have ever had. 10/10 room service experience.

Overall, the Hilton London Heathrow Airport offers a very convenient, comfortable, and surprisingly luxurious experience for travelers. It’s an ideal choice if you need a stress-free stay near the airport without compromising on comfort. I’d recommend it for business and leisure travelers alike and would certainly stay here again.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay, visit their website: www.hilton.com/en/hotels/lhraptw-hilton-london-heathrow-airport/

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Fairmont Quasar Istanbul – Unparalleled Luxury and Exceptional Service

Fairmont Quasar Istanbul is perfectly situated in the heart of Istanbul, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and easy access to both the European and Asian sides of the city. The hotel is conveniently located near the tourist attractions, shopping districts, and business centers, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers.

The service at Fairmont Quasar Istanbul is exceptional. From the moment I arrived, the staff was warm, welcoming, and attentive to every detail. The concierge team was particularly helpful, providing excellent recommendations for local attractions and dining options. Housekeeping did a superb job of maintaining the room, and the overall level of hospitality made me feel valued as a guest.

The rooms and suites at Fairmont Quasar Istanbul are a blend of modern luxury and traditional elegance. My room was spacious, impeccably clean, and beautifully decorated with contemporary furnishings. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the floor-to-ceiling windows offered stunning views of the city skyline. The bathroom was equally impressive, featuring a bathtub, a rain shower, and high-end toiletries.

The hotel provides a variety of facilities to ensure a luxurious and relaxing stay. The Fairmont Spa is a sanctuary of relaxation and was one of the highlights of my hotel stay. The fitness center is well-equipped with Technogym equipment. This may be the best hotel gym I have ever experienced.

Another highlight of the hotel is the Ukiyo Outdoor Pool on the fifth floor, offering panoramic Bosphorus views. This area is perfect for relaxation, with comfortable loungers and excellent service.

The hotel has a variety of dining options, each offering a different culinary experience. The buffet breakfast served at the main restaurant was exceptional. It was a lavish spread, offering a selection of both local Turkish delicacies and international favorites. The live cooking stations served made-to-order omelets, eggs your way as well as pancakes, and they also offered an à la carte hot breakfast menu with my favourite dish being the Eggs Benedict.

On the fifth floor is the Ukiyo Restaurant featuring Japanese cuisine, sushi, poke bowls, dim sum and views of the Bosphorus.

My stay at Fairmont Quasar Istanbul was exceptional in every way. The luxurious accommodations, fantastic facilities, and impeccable service combined to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re visiting Istanbul for business or leisure, I highly recommend Fairmont Quasar Istanbul for a stay that is both comfortable and memorable.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay, visit their website: fairmontquasaristanbul.com

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Taskonaklar Hotel & Restaurant – A Unique Cappadocia Experience

I recently had the pleasure of staying at Taskonaklar Hotel & Restaurant in the enchanting region of Cappadocia, and it was an experience that surpassed all my expectations.

Taskonaklar Hotel’s location is perfect for exploring the wonders of Cappadocia. It is situated close to major attractions such as the Göreme Open Air Museum and the Uchisar Castle. The hotel also offers hot air balloon rides, which provide a stunning aerial view of the surreal landscape.

The staff at Taskonaklar Hotel were incredibly warm and attentive. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with genuine hospitality. The front office staff were considerate, accommodating, and always ready with helpful suggestions for making the most of my stay in Cappadocia.

The hotel’s unique architecture is a blend of traditional stone structures and modern amenities. The rooms are carved into the rock formations, providing an authentic cave experience without compromising on comfort.

I stayed in one of their Suites with a terrace, which was spacious and beautifully appointed with rustic stone walls, elegant furnishings, and thoughtful details that reflected the local heritage. The room featured a cozy fireplace, a luxurious double bed, and a private terrace with breathtaking views of the valley. The terrace was a lovely spot to unwind, offering a relaxing ambiance and spectacular views.

The hotel’s restaurant is a culinary gem. Breakfast on Moniq Restaurant’s terrace was a daily highlight, featuring a generous spread of pastries, fruits, cheeses, and traditional dishes. Dinner was equally impressive, with a menu that highlights the flavors of the region. Dining in a cave, enjoying dishes like meatballs and meze platters, was a culinary experience to cherish.

The hotel offers a range of amenities that cater to both relaxation and adventure. The cozy lounge areas, complete with fireplaces, are perfect for unwinding with a book or enjoying a glass of wine. For those seeking adventure, the hotel can arrange activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and guided tours of the region’s captivating sites. The outdoor terraces and gardens are perfect for unwinding and taking in the panoramic views.

Staying at Taskonaklar Hotel & Restaurant was an unforgettable experience. The combination of luxurious accommodations, exceptional service, and the enchanting Cappadocian landscape made it a perfect retreat. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or an adventurous holiday, Taskonaklar Hotel & Restaurant is the ideal choice.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay, visit their website: taskonaklar.com

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Jaci’s Lodges – An Authentic Safari Getaway

Jaci’s Lodges is a family owned and run safari lodge located within Madikwe Game Reserve about a 4-hour drive from Johannesburg. The reserve is home to a variety of impressive wildlife including the Big 5.

The lodge is owned by Jan and Jaci van Heteren who, alongside their team, ensure an authentic experience with outstanding hospitality.

Jaci’s Lodges is an excellent choice for families, or couples, offering a variety of room types and facilities.

Jaci’s Lodges comprises of two separate lodges about a kilometer apart from each other. The safari lodge is ideal for families, and the tree lodge is adults-only. The property also has suites that can host up to 8 guests.

The staff made me feel right at home as soon as I arrived. The lodge has such a homely and cozy feel throughout and the staff were eager to make our stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Upon arrival we were offered a refreshing towel and cold beverage, as well as a reusable water bottle to be used throughout our stay.

I stayed at Jaci’s Tree Lodge in one of their eight treehouse suites. The suite was spacious, uniquely decorated, and surrounded by the natural environment. The rooms don’t have keys, which makes the stay authentic and makes you feel immersed in nature. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and had electric blankets, which is perfect for the cold winter nights. The suite had a beautiful bathtub and double vanity, as well as a huge outdoor shower.

Each morning there were sounds of hyenas and hippos in the distance waking me up, so no need for an alarm. We got a wake-up call at 6:30am each morning for the 7am game drive and were served coffee and snacks before heading off on the morning drive.

The dining experience at Jaci’s Lodges was exceptional. Our meals were served in different areas each day, breakfast at the boma area, lunch at Tlou Deck and dinner at the cozy indoor dining venue. We had a full English breakfast each morning to fuel us for the activity filled days. My favourite lunch was at the Tlou Deck overlooking the watering hole, we had the most delicious pork tacos and a local wine to pair. There were elephants at the watering hole during our entire lunch and it was just the most relaxing setting. The dinner menus were creative, and the chef certainly exceeded my expectations.

The first night we had Impala Shank which was really something different and my first-time eating Impala. The second night I had the most delicious chicken roulade, and my partner had the lamb rack which he thoroughly enjoyed (as it’s his favourite dish!). This last dinner was also so special because the staff set up the Tlou Deck for us even though it’s winter, but they put mushroom heaters next to our table and gave us blankets and we just had the best dinner experience.

The Terrapin hide is the most impressive spot at the lodge. This unique, submerged hide is accessed via an underwater tunnel and provides you with the opportunity to observe wildlife up close, right at water level. This is the perfect place for photographers to capture once-in-a-lifetime shots. You can sit in the hide for hours watching the animals in their natural habitat. We saw a herd of elephants up close, as well as a crocodile swimming in the water near the hide. There were also giraffes, bucks, zebras and birds visiting the watering hole during the day.

The hide is in my opinion the highlight of the lodge and a truly memorable and immersive experience.  

The swimming pool is a great place to relax and take a dip between activities. There is also the comfortable lounge area and bar which has a fireplace, perfect for winter days. The lodge also offers a small curio shop with beautiful local crafts and souvenirs.

There is a relaxing river walk between Jaci’s Safari Lodge and Jaci’s Tree Lodge and is a lovely activity for after breakfast. During my walk, I encountered monkeys and antelopes, as well as the most beautiful blue birds.

The lodge offered daily morning and afternoon game drives within the impressive Madikwe Game Reserve. We made sure to attend every game drive as there is always something new to see on each drive. Peter was our dedicated safari guide, and he is extremely knowledgeable on the reserve, and he loves astronomy. Peter has been in the industry for about 30 years so we were comfortable that he would make our drives memorable. He played educational games with us during sunset hour on the safari which was interactive and fun. I appreciated his enthusiasm.

During our game drives, we saw two male rhinos, wildebeest, elephants and giraffes. We also saw a herd of about a hundred buffalo at a watering hole which was impressive. On the second day we encountered three lions up close, it was an exhilarating feeling being so close to these wild animals.

On our last afternoon safari, we had an incredible sighting of three cheetah brothers. Our guide told us that it is rare to see cheetahs like we did on the open plains. There were also two rhinos nearby who tried chasing the cheetahs away, it was very entertaining to watch up close. It was the highlight of all our game drives, and truly a special sighting.

This unique destination offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic African charm.

Thank you to the staff for making my stay so special, thanks to Manny at the front office, Zandile and Kea in the dining areas, Russell the chef, and Peter our guide.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay at Jaci’s Lodges, visit their website: www.jacislodges.co.za

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Pondoro Game Lodge – A luxury bush holiday with excellent hospitality

Pondoro Game Lodge is set on the banks of the Olifants River in Balule Private Game Reserve inside the greater Kruger National Park.

The lodge is family-owned by Lize and Robbie and offers only 8 rooms, ensuring exclusivity and personalized service for every guest.

They provide exceptional service, delicious food, and breathtaking natural surroundings. It Is the best way to experience the African bush.

The lodge really felt intimate, and the staff made me feel at home as soon as I arrived. The staff had genuine smiles that lit up the whole room.

I stayed in the “Buffalo” Suite, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The suite had a thatched roof, beautiful décor, and best of all, sweeping views of the Olifant’s River and surrounding wild. The owners perfectly blended African furnishings and modern amenities to create a comfortable and memorable stay.

The suite did not have any fencing, so you are completely in nature. We were offered handmade bracelets as a welcome gift, they were made by their housekeeper Sindile (what a sweet touch). We were also gifted a lovely bottle of red wine upon arrival. The suite was spacious, and the king bed had the perfect view. The bathroom had a big open shower and a bathtub which also boasted views of the outdoors. On the outside deck there was a shower, and the main feature, the rock bathtub overlooking the river.

The deck was the perfect place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding nature. Every day I saw elephants bathing in the river, and monkeys swinging from the trees. The hippos also made sure I knew they were there with their loud noises coming from the river.

The meals were brilliant, offering international cuisine with a South African touch. The lodge’s extensive wine list has won international awards, and their staff will recommend the best wines for each meal. I particularly liked the Stellenzicht Shiraz.

For breakfast each morning, I had their signature iced coffee, some seasonal fruit and the eggs benedict. The breakfast is a la carte and has a great variety of hot and cold dishes.

For lunch they offered a set menu which changed daily, and in addition to that, they offered a ‘high tea’ station with drinks and snacks to enjoy after the main lunch meal.

For our first night we had dinner on the riverbank, with sounds of hippos in the background. It was quite a scary experience, but the staff made it so much fun. They performed an African dance and sang a few songs for us to start the evening. The ostrich fillet was tasty and of course it was paired with a lovely Pinotage wine.

My favourite meal was our last dinner which was a beef fillet steak with a to-die-for mustard sauce. Another special meal was the venison potjie which was served in such a unique way and tasted fantastic. The intimate setting of the dining area added to the overall charm of the lodge.

The staff went over and above for my partner’s 30th birthday. They provided a special dinner table decorated with balloons and baked him a delicious chocolate cake.

A special thank you to Yvonne and Patricia for your generous hospitality, and Percy in the kitchen for the wonderful food that you prepared for us.

The romantic picnic at their treehouse hide was one of the highlights of our trip. The staff arranged a picnic lunch on the day of my partner’s birthday. Our guide drove us to this unique spot, which overlooked a watering hole, and we were left on our own to enjoy our special meal. A herd of elephants were enjoying the dam water to cool off on the hot summer day. The picnic feast was truly delightful.

The lodge offered daily morning and evening game drives with their experienced and passionate tracker and guide. On each drive we saw something different. We saw a pride of roaring lions which was thrilling. The best sighting was watching a leopard and its two cubs. The female leopard was eating its recent kill, and the babies were playing nearby under a tree. We watched them for hours, it was fascinating. We also saw a black rhino which is very rare. During our 3-night stay, we saw the entire Big Five, some Hyenas and Wild Dogs, and of course many Giraffes and Zebras. Every game drive offered a chance to witness the incredible diversity of South Africa’s wildlife.

Rul the guide and Shedrick the tracker are super knowledgeable and I thank them for giving us the best authentic safari experience.

The lodge has an in-house spa offering massage treatments to rejuvenate you after a morning game drive. You can also take a dip in their infinity pool which is tucked in between trees and surrounded by sounds of birds. You also could participate in a guided bush walk nearby the lodge if you are interested in tracking animals and gaining information from the experienced tracker.

I would recommend this lodge for a honeymoon, a romantic getaway or anyone wanting to experience a luxury safari.

My stay was nothing short of remarkable, offering an unparalleled safari experience that exceeded all expectations.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay at Pondoro Game Lodge, visit their website: www.pondoro.co.za