Category: Hotels

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Wildlife and luxury create harmony at the 57 Waterberg Lodge

What a wonderful surprise…after our long drive, we were greeted at the gate by our very own game-ranger with ice-cold champagne, served in silver goblets. The calm of the bush immediately settled over me as we made our way over the rocky terrain of the Waterberg Mountains to the lodge. An African welcome song and a glass of sherry completed our warm welcome upon arrival at the main lodge.

Beautifully furnished rooms, crisp white linen, snug fires and our own outdoor Jacuzzi overlooking the bush filled my soul with thankfulness.

The game drives were informative and well worth the effort as we saw herds of elephant complete with little ones. The reserve is known for its conservation of white rhinos, of which we had a view close-up and personal.

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The superb 3-course dinner and service was truly of world-class standard and accompanied by excellent vintages. I could return just for that!

It was with a lingering sense of loss but a conviction that I will return one day that we left this piece of heaven.

 

Reviewed By Marna Lourens – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To book this wildlife experience follow the link below

Click Here

 

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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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Honeymoon Bliss at Bandara Villas, Phuket

My husband and I had the pleasure of spending our first three nights of our honeymoon in Thailand at the amazing Bandara Villas, Phuket.

We had such a friendly welcome with drinks and refreshing towels to cool us off while we were being checked in. One of the staff members showed us to our room and WOW! What a room it was, we stayed in one of the Panoramic Pool Villas with a view that we were only able to see the next morning but knew it was close to the beach as we could hear the waves almost crashing underneath us.

We had breakfast each morning at Sumpao Restaurant where we could order a la carte or breakfast buffet, with some delicious traditional Thai breakfast dishes to try out.

We spent most of our days at Bandara itself as it was so relaxing there and our room was so amazing, with our own private pool with sea views, internet access and a fully stocked mini bar where the first round was on them.

The hotel also assisted us with planning a day trip to Phi Phi Island, it was done efficiently and effortlessly. We had an early departure that morning so the lady that assisted us arranged that the restaurant makes us early breakfast in take away packages that we could enjoy on our way to the docks.

After a full day out, we decided the next day to just relax at the beachfront pool and enjoy some cocktails from the beach pool bar. We signed out a stand-up paddle board that was part of their free amenities that we took to the ocean to try out for the first time. They also have daily activities program such as Yoga, Thai Boxing, Aqua Aerobics, Fruit Carving etc.

We had such a lovely stay at Bandara Villas, Phuket. The staff are exceptionally friendly, and the service is on point. We couldn’t have asked for a better start to our Thailand experience.

 

Reveiwed By Anke Van Zyl- World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To book this spectacular accommodation – website

 stay@bandaraphuket.com

 

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A Luxurious wildlife experience at Naledi

After a very long drive to Hoedspruit we arrived bone-tired in the green oasis of Naledi. Upon our late arrival we were whisked away with great delight to join the night game drive in search of rare wild dogs that were spotted in the area.

 

As we were sipping deliciously cold wine against the background of a gloriously setting African sun, our informative tracker and guide entertained us with interesting stories about life in the bush. The game drive continued well into the night and ended on a high note as we not only spotted the elusive wild dog, but also some hyenas. Back in camp we were welcomed by the aromatic smells of an African braai and a bonfire in the Boma. The surprise of the evening was being serenaded by Naledi’s own African choir. Amidst singing, dancing and some vigorous drumming the evening meal was hosted by the delightful T.K. and was the end to a wonderful day.

Our early morning drive the next day started with the prospect of searching for lions. After some relentless tracking and bundu-bashing we spotted them and what a magnificent sight to see. This was the completion of an exceptional visit to a place where guests are made to feel like family and where generosity of spirit, comfort and professionalism reign.

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Reviewed By Marna Lourens -World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To view and book this paradise follow the link below

www.naledigamelodge.com

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Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa – A honeymoon in paradise…

It was a wet and rainy day when we arrived at Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa, Located just a short drive from Patong Beach over the beautiful mountains of Kamala Bay.

We received a welcome drink and refreshing towel while being checked in and had a chance to relax in the beautiful lobby. We had a choice of our own scent selection which consisted of four different oils for our room aroma, we decided on the fresh Lemon Grass scent.

The staff drove us to our room, the Grand Thai Natural Ocean View with Spa Bath room, which was set on the high terrains of the resort. It was the most spacious room that I have ever stayed in. The room had traditional Thai Décor, a spacious bedroom and living area with Natural and Ocean views. The room also included complimentary Wi-Fi, a 32-inch LCD Television, DVD player, telephone, safety deposit box and mini-bar and then for the bathroom which included a jacuzzi bathtub, rainfall shower, dressing area and hair dryer. They even had a Sound Bar where we could connect our phones and listen to music.

We had dinner at The Cradle Restaurant, where we enjoyed the local dishes that were amazing and full of vibrant flavours such as lemon grass, ginger and chili which we enjoyed with a glass of wine. As it was the beginning of the FIFA World Cup 2018 the staff were assembling a projector for the restaurant guests to enjoy one of the games that were on.

After a comfortable night’s sleep in our King Size bed we woke up quite early and excited for breakfast which I can say was out of this world. The breakfast was buffet, or we could have ordered from the a la carte menu. The buffet selection had anything you could think – my favourite, “The Phuket Corner” had local breakfast dishes and colourful fruits from all around.

In the afternoon we made use of the resort shuttle bus that departs every two hours from the lobby to the Village where they drop you off at a certain point and pick you up every two hours, for which they were always on time.

The resort offers cocktail classes where they taught us to make a Thai cocktail and gave us each a chance to try and make it ourselves. They set up a whole area just for us and the barmen made us a Tom Yum Soup inspired cocktail, nice and spicy with ginger, lime and chili. We enjoyed it so much that they demonstrated two more cocktails that we learned to make and enjoy afterwards.

Our last day at the resort we witnessed how they were setting up for a beautiful rainy-day wedding for a small party in The Cradle Restaurant. The restaurant was decorated with white and green flowers with fairly lights hanging from the restaurant, it looked gorgeous and elegant. The General Manager Chai even took us through the wedding to show us their set-up.

The resort also features tennis courts, Ratana Spa and  Thai Cooking Classes at the restaurant. Overall, we had a wonderful experience at the spectacular Ayara Kamala Resort with excellent service from the friendly staff and amazing views. I was quite sad to say goodbye.

Reveiewed by Anke Van Zyl and Niel Van Zyl- World Luxury Hotel Awards Representatives

to view more of this stunning property click here www.ayarakamalaresort.com/

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A wintery weekend away at the NH Lord Charles

We arrived at the NH lord Charles on a stormy winters evening, after entering the warm lobby we were greeted by the warm smiles of the concierge and check in clerks. The lobby is beautiful and decorated with a modern touch of art that creates a chandelier in the shape of a tree. In the lobby you can take a seat on one of the many couches and have a cup of coffee or a light snack.

We proceeded to check into our room which was suite number 2103,the room included a lounge with a small TV and bathroom with an opening deck onto a balcony with sunbathing chairs and a view of the lake and gardens. The lounge leads into the spacious bedroom which includes a desk, king size bed and huge second bathroom. From the bed you can watch some TV or admire the view from your bedroom balcony.

Due to the water restrictions in South Africa the hotel has water wise taps in the public bathrooms as well as a mini timer installed in the shower and information brochures as you enter any of the bathrooms in the hotel.

After a comfortable night’s sleep we woke up early to enjoy the breakfast at the garden terrace restaurant. The breakfast is a buffet style with a vast variety to suite any palette.

We then had a walk around the hotels perfectly manicured gardens. This hotel is perfect for weddings with the rolling green lawns and gazebo as well as the many event spaces and ballrooms. The hotel has the perfect setting for your special day, I even saw a beautiful bride having her photos taken on the Saturday morning from my balcony.

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The hotel features an on-site restaurant La Vigna that serves international cuisine in a stylish setting. The Food at this restaurant is exquisite and the chef Henrico creates absolute masterpieces.

The hotel also features a traditional styled Scottish pub, perfect on a cold winters night for a nightcap or to watch the latest sports live.

With the hotels central location in Somerset West you are only minutes away from Somerset Mall, the beach or the local wine farms. A perfect location for exploring the cape winelands and all its offerings.

Overall we had a wonderful experience and I look forward to my next visit.

Reviewed By Melissa Hofmann- World Luxury Hotel Awards representative

To view or book please view the latest specials on www.nh-hotels.com/hotel/nh-cape-town-the-lord-charles

 

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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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Weekend escape to the seaside at Tintswalo Atlantic.

Arriving at Tintswalo Atlantic is like entering a remote private paradise. The property is nestled on the cliffs of the famous Chapmans Peak Drive in Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town.

Upon arrival we were warmly greeted with a glass of bubbly each from Melissa and immediately felt like we had been visiting for years.

The welcoming lounge is beautifully decorated and looks out over the ocean towards Hout Bay.

There are 10 suites in total that are all stylishly decorated and themed around different islands. Our suite was the Robben island suite and was a magnificent room, decorated in browns, greens and paying tribute to Nelson Mandela, the first democratically elected president in South Africa. The bathroom was my absolute favorite part about the suite; The colours, décor and large open windows create a beautiful and intimate setting.  Our suite had a beautiful fireplace which was lovely to come back to in the evenings after dinner and enjoy a glass of merlot. The suites are literally right on the ocean, the crashing waves lull you to sleep and waking up with a cup of coffee on your private deck is an absolute Treat.

Breakfast is served on the main deck in the mornings. A large cappuccino and diverse breakfast is the perfect way to start the day, not forgetting the breathtaking views. The hotel staff were so helpful in letting us know of activities available in the area. We booked ourselves a full body massage and  within the privacy of your suite, with the sound of the waves and the skilled therapists, you will feel definitely like a new person afterwards.

The 5-course dinner at Tintswalo was simply superb. The food was creative, well presented and absolutely delicious. With the sun setting over the ocean, fantastic wine and great service, it is an absolute must!

Overall, I can sum up our visit to Tintswalo Atlantic as magical. It truly is the hidden gem of Cape Town. With the location, intimate setting, fine food and the ocean, it is the perfect place to just unwind and take a break from it all. Melissa and Ryno the General Managers were also fantastic hosts and really make you feel like part of the family. You really do feel sad having to say goodbye.

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If your goal is to relax and to just enjoy the beauty around you, Tinstwalo Atlantic is the spot.

Reviewed By Tanique Echardt-World Luxury Hotel Awards Executive manager

To view or book this property please follow the link here

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These 10 Design hotels are a feast for your eyes…

The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel

This state of the art historical design hotel has everything you need. Offering 126 rooms with 10 categories starting from Premium and Superior room types up to imperial and Presidential residences. All the rooms are decorated in exquisite styles replicating the imperial chambers of the Winter palace. Only natural materials are used for the decoration of the guest rooms like natural wood, different sorts of Greek and Italian marble, silk wallpapers and hand crafted plaster gilded with gold.

Ovolo Woolloomooloo

Art and culture meet at the Ovolo Woolloomooloo. Located in Sydney, Australia this hotel is bold, innovative and community minded. Creating a design centric, social space where like minded individuals can enjoy everything from accommodation to co-working. The unique and intriguing design features of Ovolo Woolloomooloo effortlessly combine heritage with modern luxury, breathing a new lease of life into this historic Wharf in an absolutely stunning location over the picturesque Sydney Harbour.

Sarai Resort and Spa

Situated in the exotic city of Siem Reap, Sarai Resort & Spa is a luxury boutique, Moroccan-inspired design resort. Sarai has been designed to be a destination where travelers from East and West come to pleasantly discover superior services, beautiful and comfortable rooms, great food, exquisite spa, and a tranquil swimming pool. Its rural atmosphere makes Siem Reap the perfect destination for your vacation. Take a break from the demands of every-day life; take a breath, relax, look up to the stars and take a moment to just gaze at their gentle beauty.

Hotel VIC on the Harbour

Hotel VIC on the Harbour has been built to the most exacting standards through the combined star power of renowned award-winners Rocco Design Architects Ltd as project architect and Hirsch Bedner Associates as guestroom interior designer.

Conservatorium Hotel

This hotel is a Architecture design hotel based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Located in the Museum Square district, the true heart of the city, the Conservatorium is an architectural masterpiece that combines a landmark heritage building with graceful, contemporary design.

The Salil Hotel Sukhumvit 57 – Thonglor

A “Concept Living Space” representing a tranquil heavenly luxury hotel in the heart of Bangkok.The hotel boasts the most original and soulful luxury destination in Thong Lor, where business and chic living style are intertwined. All guest rooms are designed with a contemporary interpretation of the East meets West cultures through the pattern of wallpapers.

Alentejo Marmoris Hotel & Spa

At the heart of Alentejo, 180 km east from Lisbon and located in the historical town “Vila Viçosa”, the Alentejo Marmòris Hotel & Spa presents itself as the most luxurious new hotel of Portugal. This hotel is unique and distinctive – a real museum dedicated to marble.

The Torch Doha

At 300m high and with 360° panoramic views across Doha, THE TORCH is the centerpiece of Doha’s vibrant Sports City – Aspire Zone. This iconic 5-Star hotel features 51 floors, a revolving restaurant on the 47th floor and a cantilevered swimming pool anchored to the 19th floor. All rooms feature a mood-lighting system with 12 different colours, a unique iPad in-Room Solution and LED TVs.

Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal

A striking design hotel in Luxembourg’s historic center Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal gazes magnificently over the picturesque Alzette and Pétrusse valleys and Luxembourgs UNESCO Old Town. A grand modern glass structure of dramatic lines and curves, this 5-star hotel in Luxembourg is a landmark amid a tapestry of cultural historical and natural sites.

Hotel Éclat Beijing

This 5 star hotel is a stunning landmark on the Beijing skyline, standing impressively in the heart of the city’s downtown Central Business District – a perfect location for both business and leisure travelers. A focal point of the award-winning Parkview Green, the luxury boutique Hotel Éclat Beijing offers the rare opportunity to experience museum quality art while enjoying stylish accommodation, outstanding cuisine, intuitive yet non-intrusive guest services and a spectacular Mall within its unique architectural design.

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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