2017 World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony
2017 World Luxury Hotel Awards Winners Announced
CELEBRATING HOTELIERING EXCELLENCE IN A WINTER WONDERLAND
2 December 2017 – Snow falls gently on the slopes of the Swiss Alps, pine trees are decked with white hats, and a warm glow resonates from the windows of the host of the 2017 World Luxury Hotel Awards gala ceremony, the resplendent Kulm Hotel St. Moritz.
“We could not have hoped for a more magical setting. One can only try to describe the beauty of this location, and it is topped only by the fact that we are surrounded by a winter wonderland.” says Michelle Snyman, Brand Manager for the World Luxury Hotel Awards, as guests begin to arrive on the red carpet.
In celebrating over a decade of awarding service excellence, the World Luxury Hotel Awards warmly welcomed its guests on 2 December to the 2017 grand gala ceremony at one of the top ski destinations in the world. St. Moritz, a luxury alpine resort town in Switzerland’s Engadin valley is renowned for its winter season charm and its style, elegance and class.
Setting the basis for service industry standards around the globe, the World Luxury Hotel Awards provides true recognition to luxury hotels and resorts in their relevant categories during its annual voting phase. “Over 300,000 votes were tallied this year from travellers and guests of these luxury establishments during the voting phase. It is because of this that our winners are here this evening, because they offer something extra special to their guests that satisfies their travel desires.” says Snyman.
Guests were treated to a luxurious fine dining 6-course meal, designed especially for this magnificent occasion by Head Chef Mauro Taufer, and plated and delivered expertly to each guest’s delight. Entertainment from Leo Wundergut had the crowds roaring with laughter throughout the evening opening hearts and lifting spirits in their act “Comedy in Music – or how to kill a piano”. True entertainment for the mind, heart and funny bones.
“We wish to congratulate all our winners tonight, who above all else have excelled as the best of the best in their respective categories amongst their industry peers. Our further special congratulations to our two top winners for the evening, of which the Chairman’s Choice Award went to Constance Hotels & Resorts, in recognition of this group’s unwavering dedication to service excellence in luxury hospitality. Our grandest award for the year, the prestigious 2017 Global Hotel of the Year, was bestowed upon Jumeirah Vittaveli in the Maldives, a property for which words can rarely describe its splendour. This opulent hotel is well deserving of this accolade and represents everything that the World Luxury Hotel Awards stands for. Congratulations to the General Manager, Mr Amit Majumder and his entire team for this magnanimous achievement.” says Brandon Lourens, Founder and CEO.
After interview and photo opportunities had concluded and the air of anticipation subsided, guests were welcomed to The Altitude Bar where the celebrations continued, friendships were formed, and good times were had by all.
The World Luxury Hotel Awards extends a heartfelt thank you to every participant of the 2017 awards for their continued support, and to each attendee of the gala ceremony. We look forward to another prosperous award year, and to welcoming our valued clients to AYANA Resort and Spa Bali on 10 November 2018 for our next exciting awards celebration.
Luxury establishments from around the globe are welcomed to participate in these exciting awards, to proudly show the world what they have to offer in terms of luxury and service excellence.
Over water villas that will leave you breathless…
Dusit Thani Maldives
Maldives
In this setting of unparalleled beauty, enjoy the breath-taking scenery at this over water stilt-hanging haven. Gaze at the ever-changing turquoise hues of the lagoon or take a dip from your private deck. Alternatively, cool off in your very own private waterfront pool.
With a unique combination of beach and lagoon access, all Water Villas are furnished with subtle Thai touches imbued with Maldivian architecture and appointed with modern amenities.
Visit the website here
Diamonds Thudufushi
Maldives
The island features elegant beach bungalows and luxury overwater villas. A wellness centre offers ayurvedic treatments and a diving centre caters to the underwater experience of our guests. The Diamonds Thudufushi resort is a luxury paradise situated just a 20-minute scenic seaplane flight away from Malé International Airport.
Visit the website here
Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson
Malaysia
Nestled along Port Dickson’s Pasir Panjang beach and overlooking the Straits of Malacca, the iconic and expansive Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson sprawls into the Straits of Malacca and resembles the national flower of Malaysia. With a total of 639 pool villas comprising 117 tower rooms and 522 water villas, each villa is spacious, tastefully decorated and comes with its own private dip pool and steam room for luxury and privacy.
Visit the website here
Diamonds Athuruga
Maldives
Boasting elegant beach bungalows, Junior Suite and beautiful overwater villas, Diamonds Athuruga is a luxury paradise located at just a 20 minutes scenic flight away from Malé International Airport.
Athuruga is the ideal resort to discover the Maldives from a centre of excellence, where attention to detail will make your journey unforgettable. Let yourself be charmed by one of the most unique, enchanting well-known coral reefs in the Maldives.
Visit the website here
Myanmar Treasure Resort, Inle
Myanmar
Inle Lake is one of Myanmar’s most anticipated destinations, it is a vast body of water, 875 meters above sea-level featuring a unique ecosystem, singular life-styles and rich traditions. Sitting right on the lake waters, Myanmar Treasure Resort, Inle offers an elegant combination of traditional local lifestyle and the comforts of modern accommodation to capture a tradition held long and true.
Visit the website here
The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi
Maldives
Dip your toes in the ocean and spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach – the Maldives is yours to do as you please.
At The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi and take your pick from a range of stunning accommodation including breath-taking water villas, beach villas, and exclusive retreats. Here at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, not only do you get to experience luxury, you get to experience the traditional Maldivian culture too.
Visit the website here
Novotel Inle Lake Myat Min Resort
Myanmar
Choose from an airy suite looking onto the resort’s lush gardens, or a spacious villa right on the water. The infinity pool invites you to soak up the views, and the sunset on the lake provides an unforgettable backdrop for holidays or meetings at Novotel.
Inle Lake is located at the heart of the Shan Plateau, one of Myanmar’s top destinations. It is a beautiful highland lake, 900 meters above sea level and inhabited by different indigenous tribes.
Visit the website here
This Lakeside city hotel in Hanoi is a treat for business and leisure..
The InterContinental Hanoi Westlake is located on the largest lake in the city of Hanoi and is situated just minutes from the Old Quarter. Guests can look forward to experiencing space and relaxation in this elegant haven. The hotel is a pleasant escape from the buzz of the busy city.
Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure this hotel offers the best of both worlds. For business travellers, the hotel offers exclusive meeting rooms and privacy for high profile businessmen and heads of state. The facilities of InterContinental Hanoi Westlake range from larger than life conference halls to very exclusive dining rooms meant for the elite.
As a leisure guest, the hotel offers resort like features, from a lavish pool to the ultra-trendy Sunset Bar. The Sunset Bar is the place to be for cocktails, offering an experience that is unmatched anywhere else in Hanoi. Situated between the three pavilions in a stunning lakeside setting, the bar is reached via a stroll across a torch-lit bridge. Discover the city’s best-kept secret as the renowned team makes guests the perfect cocktail for any occasion.
True to the InterContinental brand the hotel offers the best in a variety of food and beverage options. The hotel offers 6 dining options that range from fine dining gourmet to comfort food such as Italian favourites. Experience a traditional Bamboo Village, an elegant glimpse of authentic Vietnamese culture, or explore the diverse culinary flavours of the Mediterranean region, exclusively prepared by French Executive Chef Jerremy Lassarre.
The 293 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites are cloaked in a tranquil residential setting. Of these rooms, 132 are located on two unique Island Pavilions set just above the picturesque waters of West Lake. Contemporary Vietnamese design meets spacious intimacy with cream coloured walls and dark timber floors and furniture, complemented by rich textures and vibrant colours. Each room and suite features a private balcony with a superb view of either West Lake or the Hanoi skyline.
My favourite item in the room was a petit four boat that introduces the traditional floating market. The floating market is an integral part of daily life throughout all of Vietnam’s waterways and features locally grown fruits and vegetables as well as traditional dishes usually starts at 4 or 5 in the morning and ends before the heat of mid-morning at 10.
Whether you are hosting a big wedding event, taking up residence for a long-term business deal or experiencing Hanoi as a tourist, you would be lucky to book and stay at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake.
Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager
To book this hotel go to their website: click here
Or email them: here
To view more reviews click here
Sunrise Premium Resort Hoi An – A Most Charming Beach Resort Experience
Set along the coast of Vietnam on the South China Sea, is a town known for its magical charm, French and Japanese influenced ancient town and its many lanterns that light its streets at night. Hoi An is a must-see destination. Straddled on the beach front with views of mountains protruding out the water, is a beach resort made for any type of vacation, Sunrise Premium Resort Hoi An. Come as a family or a couple, come for business or pleasure, this is the place to stay.
We were greeted on check-in personally by the General Manager who invited us for a welcome refreshment. After this delightful introduction, we were taken to our Club Deluxe Ocean View room and we immediately settled into its vibey, beach apartment style luxury. The rooms are comfortable and well laid out with a sealed balcony (to keep out the local fauna) where one can sit and read on the couch while looking out at the ocean. There is even an option for pillow type tucked neatly under a rose on each bed.
With the Club Deluxe benefits option, one can take a shuttle in and out of Hoi An Ancient Town to go and experience the town in all its glory. An evening trip to see the streets lit up with so many colourful lanterns is an experience not to miss. Booking the shuttles with the concierge was always an easy task and the staff were friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. And don’t worry about the rain, you are provided an umbrella and a pair of flip flops for either around the resort or your excursions.
The Resort has many fine restaurants and accompanying them are staff of top international quality, and some of the best Vietnamese food we had on our journey. Every dish was candy to the eyes and a taste sensation. Chef’s Tuyet or Cesar were at our table with every meal to introduce us to what was placed before us and every dietary requirement was kindly adhered to and guaranteed, with a smile.
The Resort boasts two incredible pools, one for the family and one exclusively for adults which is set amongst thatch umbrellas and loungers on the beach. Close by is an idyllic cocktail bar which is always welcome when the clock strikes happy hour at 5 pm! No need to move though, you will be brought a menu by one of the waiters and tropical drinks will come served in minutes while you relax and take in the ocean views.
We were treated to a sublime massage and facial at the beautiful Bliss Spa, which was certainly a highlight of our visit. Once again, warming and welcoming staff who know exactly what to do with their hands to send you into seventh heaven while you relax to the natural sounds around you.
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After three nights in paradise, swimming in the ocean and discovering the beautiful garden trails around the resort, we were sad to leave which I think says it all. We definitely left a piece of our hearts at Sunrise…
To book this breathtaking resort follow the details below.
website – click here
email- resa@sunrisehoian.vn
Furama Resort Danang, a culinary and style experience not to forget…
The beauty and charm of Furama Resort Danang is held in its adherence to its beautiful, traditional Vietnamese style architecture, mixed with French-colonial influences. Being the first resort of its kind to be built in the Da Nang area 20 years ago, it has been extremely well maintained and offers all the amenities and comforts of some of its modern neighbours, yet with far more warmth and character.
The welcome drink, a cold, delicious fruit cocktail served in a hollowed-out dragon fruit is definitely a sight to behold for the hot and weary traveller. The rooms have every conceivable requirement, along with traditional Vietnamese hats, stylish umbrellas, and beach flip flops for use during your stay.
The resort offers plenty of activities such as diving, a range of water sports, Tai Chi on the beach, cooking classes and more, there is also a Fitness Centre and there are a number of excursions in the area to choose from. One can always spend the day relaxing by the pool-side or beach with a thatch umbrella to shade you. The Furama Spa is open until 11pm, and also offers treatments at the pool-side.
Furama Resort is known for its culinary excellence and there is certainly plenty of choice when it comes to meal times, The Fan steakhouse restaurant on the beachfront offers the perfect position for romantic dining with the most scenic setting, especially at sunset as the lanterns light up around the beach and all over the resort. There is an Italian restaurant, Don Cipriani’s, which has a touch of fine dining elegance and offers a range of traditional Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh local seafood. The signature restaurant, Café Indochine offers a wide variety of Vietnamese cuisine on the al la carte menu, along with some Western favourites. There is a sumptuous seafood buffet here in the evenings and there is a full range of choice with many international options at the morning breakfast buffet.
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Each and every member of staff is so friendly and genuinely helpful, this makes one feel totally at home, which in turn makes it very hard when it is time to leave.
Linda Cooper – Executive Manager Luxury Restaurant Awards
for more information visit www.furamavietnam.com
or Book: reservation@furamavietnam.com
To view more reviews click here
World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards Honour 2017 Winners
The scene is set; it’s a warm, exotic summer’s evening in Vietnam, the sun begins to set over the bustling and intriguing city of Hanoi, excited participants gather at the event of the year, the event that will later that night honour them as the crème da la crème of the luxury wellness and fine dining industries. Champagne flows, canapés travel on beautifully decorated trays to guests, and the air of anticipation grows. Proudly hosted by the spectacular JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi, who with a red carpet welcome invite over 180 guests from more than 50 countries to a dazzling evening of luxury, glamour, and style.
“Over 100,000 votes brought our winners here tonight; 100,000 times the public voiced their opinion on who of the 1,000 entrants are deserving of these accolades. Tonight we honour the staff of these fine establishments, who through their immeasurable service delivery have brought success to the proud brands of which they are a part.” says Marna Lourens, Executive Manager for the World Luxury Spa Awards.
Setting the basis for service industry standards around the globe, the World Luxury Spa Awards and World Luxury Restaurant Awards pride themselves on providing true recognition to luxury spas and restaurants in their relevant categories during its annual voting phase. Votes are garnered through various marketing channels from guests, showcasing yet again the true value of service excellence.
“The most coveted award of the evening is our Global Spa and Global Restaurant of the Year awards. Each year the task to determine these top establishments begins after voting has closed and we announce to our winners if they have been successful. We are six senior managers who take weeks to decide, as voting is not the only criteria we look at to bestow this prestigious award. A multitude of factors come in to play; brand, location, overall guest satisfaction from online reviews, services and facilities, design, and even menu offerings whether spa or restaurant. It is important to look at each establishment as an individual as well, some are on an island, some are in cities or in a desert, it is not always possible to compare apples with apples when defining luxury. This year the focus was on unique design with a touch of classy elegance, and we were as such proud to award Global Spa of the Year to Harnn Heritage Spa at InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, and Global Restaurant of the Year to Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Both of whom encompass the ethos of luxury and supreme service.” says Joanna Evans, Marketing Communications Manager for the World Luxury Awards.
The evening was as glamorous as one would expect from a JW Marriott brand hotel; a delectable 6-course fine dining menu adorned each table throughout the night and was paired with fine wines and champagne from Moët et Chandon. Entertainment fitting of the destination included a Dragon Dance, a Vietnamese based string quartet performance by Độc Cầm – Toxic Quartet, and a local Ao Dai Dance, all of which added to the evening’s Asian flair.
“The food tonight was exceptionally impressive, and has been during our entire stay at the hotel. Executive Chef Brendon Partridge and his team receive full honours from the World Luxury Awards and all our guests for the tireless effort of crafting these delicious plates of exquisite foods we received this evening.” says Linda Cooper, Executive Manager for the World Luxury Restaurant Awards. “I am proud to know that the awards they themselves received tonight are so well deserved.”
After all awards were received and each representative had an opportunity for exclusive photos and interviews on the red carpet, guests were welcomed to the chic and ultra-stylish Cool Cats Jazz Club, a name so apt for the warm red glow it provides, while live musicians entertained crowds late into the night with some fabulous classic jazz music.
Luxury establishments from around the globe are welcomed to participate in these exciting awards, to proudly show the world what they have to offer in terms of luxury and excellence.
W Retreat & Spa Bali a design masterpiece
The W Retreat & Spa Bali Seminyak
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.
Approaching the hotel you are lead through a vibrant green tunnel of foliage – a magnificent sight!
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.
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
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 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
Amanzi Island Lodge… a very special coastal retreat
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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
Head Over Hills For this 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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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
