Tag: best hotels in the world

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Bo Phut Resort & Spa – A Peaceful Seaside Haven in Koh Samui

There is nothing better than to experience a welcoming spirit when arriving somewhere, that spirit is in abundance at this peaceful, quaint garden resort on the edge of the sea on the island of Koh Samui.

Bo Phut Resort & Spa is perfectly located, being just a short 15-20 minute drive from the airport. We arrived in the afternoon to a delicious cold drink and refreshing cold towel, check in was efficient and our receptionist guided us to our Deluxe Garden View room which was situated in a secluded spot, fairly close to the pool and the beach. In the room there was a thoughtful welcome note with useful information and a complimentary plush monkey toy for us to take home as a memory of our stay. 

Our room was spacious with a very comfortable 4-poster bed, a couch, coffee table and work station. The bathroom was very large too, with twin basins, a bath and shower, opening out into a little area of garden.

On our first night we enjoyed a romantic dinner at the beachfront restaurant, L’ Ocean, the setting was idyllic, we found ourselves seated at a table by the sea, in perfect peace, looking out with a view over the bay. We shared a starter of satay chicken, pork and prawn skewers, followed by traditional Phad Thai which was all beautifully presented.

The restaurant manager (ever present and always helpful at breakfast service too) assisted us with our dinner choice, he then mentioned that the resort is within walking distance to a night market. The next day we walked just a few minutes along the beach, to Fisherman Village where we found plenty of restaurants, bars, shops and massage venues, on our way back we came across the set up for the night market. Later on we returned to browse and shop at the bustling Fisherman’s Village Night Market. 

Breakfasts were always a fabulous indulgence with a beautifully presented array of items from the buffet. The table service was impeccable with hot and cold beverages also served to order such as coffee, tea, cappuccino, iced coffee or latte.

We spent one of our day’s swimming and relaxing by the beautiful crystal clear pool. During a brief spell of rain, we were invited to go inside for afternoon tea which was such a welcome treat!

When the weather cleared we made our way to relax a while longer at the lovely private beach before heading to our room to get ready for some evening exploring, dinner and shopping.

The highlight of our stay was visiting Bo Phut Spa where we indulged in a Remedial Massage, a combination of Thai, Swedish and deep tissue techniques. The therapists were certainly very skilled and delivered exactly per the description to relieve aches and pains which I personally was much in need of! The tranquility of the setting was relaxing in itself, we enjoyed a welcome drink and chose our favourite oil scent for the massage. Our treatment was followed by a soothing cup of tea, I wished I could have spent the entire day there. 

The resort itself gives an aura of seclusion and privacy, even though it has 61 rooms within the property, the rooms are all tucked away and hidden by the lush garden foliage.

If you are looking for a great place to stay in Koh Samui, look no further because this might just be the perfect spot for you too.

Review by World Luxury Awards Representative, Linda Cooper

To book your stay at Bo Phut Resort & Spa, visit their website: www.bophutresort.com

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Centara Grand at CentralWorld: A Stay That Sets a New Standard

To say I was speechless would barely begin to describe my experience at Centara Grand at CentralWorld. From the moment we arrived, everything was seamless. The collection and delivery of our luggage, the smooth check-in process, and the attentiveness of the staff immediately set the tone for what would become an exceptional stay.

We were fortunate enough to experience the hotel from the comfort of a Club Deluxe Room, which came with an array of additional privileges. These included access to a dedicated Club Concierge, breakfast in the Club Lounge, access to the spa and gym, as well as two complimentary laundry items per day throughout our stay. To say we were exceptionally well looked after would be putting it rather mildly!

And then, of course, there was the room itself.

Absolutely astounding. From the floor-to-ceiling windows framing THAT view of Bangkok from approximately 50 floors up, to the thoughtful design details scattered throughout, everything felt carefully considered. One of my favourite little surprises? Speakers in the bathroom, making those morning shower singalongs all the more enjoyable! It’s the smaller details that often make the biggest difference, and I particularly appreciated the deep basin sink, designed to prevent water from splashing all over the bathroom counter.

The bathroom itself was beautifully appointed, featuring both a separate shower and bathtub. Guests are also provided with a selection of amenities, including shower caps, vanity sets, toothbrushes and bath salts. And, on a slightly more practical note, I was genuinely impressed by the water pressure. Even 50 floors up, there wasn’t a single issue! Perhaps an unusual thing to highlight in a luxury hotel review, but certainly one of those little details you don’t necessarily think about until you’re pleasantly surprised.

In the room, you’ll also find bottled water, fresh fruit and even a pillow menu, allowing guests to tailor their sleeping arrangements to their preferences.

The Club Lounge deserves a mention of its own. If you’re someone who appreciates a slower, more relaxed start to the morning, breakfast here is a lovely alternative to the busier main breakfast areas. The selection included freshly baked pastries, fresh and dried fruit, bacon, sausages, yoghurts and stir-fried dishes, alongside an à la carte menu for guests wishing to order something freshly prepared. It was a lovely way to ease into the day before heading out to explore Bangkok.

The hotel also offers some wonderful facilities for guests looking to unwind without necessarily venturing out. Located on the 26th floor, you’ll find an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and organic garden. I particularly loved the idea of having a green space tucked away high above the busy streets of Bangkok, offering guests a little pocket of tranquillity amidst the city’s constant energy.

Another particularly memorable touch was the complimentary welcome drinks, served at Red Sky Bar on the 56th floor. Taking in Bangkok’s sprawling skyline from that height is an experience in itself. There is something quite extraordinary about seeing a city of this scale stretch out beneath you, and I found myself completely captivated by the view.

I also appreciated the flexibility of this particular benefit. Rather than having to redeem your welcome drinks exclusively on arrival, guests have several days in which to enjoy them. It’s a small but thoughtful consideration that allows guests to fit the experience into their itinerary at their own convenience, rather than having to squeeze it into an already busy arrival day.

After a long day of exploring this beautiful city, we decided to indulge in a traditional Thai foot massage at the hotel’s SPA Cenvaree. Having heard about the spa’s standing within the brand, I was particularly keen to experience it for myself.

The atmosphere was wonderfully tranquil, and we were welcomed with tea before and after our treatments. As this was my first experience of a Thai massage, I was particularly impressed by the therapists, whose professionalism and skill made the experience all the more enjoyable. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day of exploring.

I would certainly recommend making some time for the spa during your stay, particularly if you’re looking to balance the excitement of exploring Bangkok with a little well-deserved relaxation.

Centara Grand at CentralWorld has genuinely raised the bar for me when it comes to luxury hospitality. It is the combination of exceptional service, thoughtful details, beautiful accommodation, and experiences that make you feel genuinely looked after that sets this property apart. I feel incredibly fortunate to have experienced what the hotel has to offer, and it is certainly one I would love to return to.

If you’re looking for a luxurious Bangkok stay where convenience, comfort and attentive hospitality come together effortlessly, Centara Grand at CentralWorld is certainly worth considering.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards representative, Carla Botha.

To book your stay at Centara Grand at CentralWorld, please visit their website: www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centaragrand/cgcw

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Burasari Phuket: A Tropical Sanctuary in the Heart of Patong

Burasari Phuket Resort and Spa, just one minute from Patong Beach, is a dream tropical paradise come to life. As soon as I stepped inside, I could feel my shoulders relax as I was greeted with warm smiles from the staff.

Design and Jay were attentive and swift in getting me settled into my beautiful Elite Pool View Room after enjoying my welcome drink.

Having arrived in the evening after a long flight, I slept wonderfully on the soft, comfortable mattress, resting up for the next day. I spent the morning relaxing by the pool, where I enjoyed delicious mango sticky rice for the first time before settling down with my book beneath the cooling Banyan trees. It was the perfect way to slow down and enjoy my first full day in Phuket.

I later enjoyed afternoon tea in my room and had the pleasure of meeting the wonderful manager, Oon. She and her team made me feel right at home from the moment I arrived, and their genuine warmth made the experience feel especially personal.

After wandering around the nearby Jungceylon Shopping Centre, I returned to the resort for dinner at Kantok Restaurant Patong, where I enjoyed some soft pop music alongside my fried rice. The detox smoothie was honestly the best smoothie I’ve had to date!

The following morning, I indulged in the wide selection at breakfast before lounging on the day bed on my stoep. It was such a lovely little space to enjoy some quiet time before my spa treatment at Burasari Spa, where I was warmly greeted by Jon and Jummy.

Dream was exactly as her name suggests: a dream. As my massage therapist, she made sure I was comfortable and completely relaxed throughout my treatment. My 90-minute massage was wonderful, and the complimentary tea afterwards was the perfect refreshing touch.

Overall, my stay at Burasari was exactly the relaxing tropical escape I needed after travelling. From the welcoming staff and beautiful pool area to the delicious food and incredibly relaxing spa treatment, I felt genuinely looked after throughout my stay. Being so close to Patong Beach and Jungceylon Shopping Centre while still having a peaceful retreat to return to made Burasari the perfect combination of convenience and tranquillity.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards representative, Caterina Lourens.

To book your stay at Burasari Phuket please visit their website: phuket.burasari.com

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The Houghton Hotel, Where Art, Nature & Luxury Meet

Located in one of the most high-end neighbourhoods in Johannesburg, The Houghton Hotel redefines modern urban luxury. What initially struck me was the spaciousness, the sense of tranquility and calm; the light filled rooms, the beautiful artwork and the thoughtful design — sophisticated and impeccable, but not overpowering. In every room, art and nature seem to be living together, each adding some flavour to the others, but without causing any confusion.

Our room was a reflection of that minimalist elegance with a cosy and modern layout that welcomed us upon our arrival. The sense of scale, calming neutral colours and considered detail made for a room that was both relaxing and inviting to stay in for longer than a day. The marble clad bathroom was a real treat in itself, with ample space for a walk-in shower, double vanity and finishing details that were beautifully executed all add to the luxurious feeling of the experience.

The spa offered a peaceful escape of its own, with nature woven beautifully into the experience. The lush greenery, quiet water features and relaxing spaces gave it a near hidden-garden atmosphere, while the heated indoor pool was the ideal spot to unwind and switch off. We especially loved the thoughtful little touches, from the comfortable loungers to the selection of teas waiting in the relaxation area — details that made it easy to linger just a little longer.

Beyond the spa, the hotel’s outdoor spaces offered another opportunity to unwind. Surrounded by greenery and overlooking the estate’s golf course, the pool area felt wonderfully removed from the energy of Johannesburg. The striking waterfall feature added an unexpected architectural touch, while the surrounding terraces and open views made this an inviting spot to spend a slow afternoon in the sun.

Dining at Cyra continued the hotel’s effortless blend of style and comfort. Bathed in natural light and overlooking the surrounding greenery, the restaurant felt elegant yet wonderfully relaxed, with warm tones, sculptural details and contemporary artwork adding character to the space. The setting alone made dining here feel like an occasion, whether settling in for a leisurely meal or simply enjoying the peaceful views beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows.

The bar and lounge also provided a stylish, relaxed space to enjoy a drink at the end of the day, featuring elegant touches, warm lighting, and rich textures that all helped to enhance the feel of intimacy. Mornings were just as inviting, with a generous breakfast buffet featuring an impressive selection of fresh pastries, breads, fruit and beautifully presented dishes. It was the kind of breakfast worth taking your time over — a relaxed and delicious start to the day.

What stayed with us most about The Houghton Hotel was the way each element of the experience seemed to complement the next. From its striking collection of art and beautifully considered interiors to the peaceful spa, inviting dining spaces and lush surroundings, the hotel manages to feel both sophisticated and wonderfully easy to settle into. It is a place that encourages you to slow down, appreciate the details and simply enjoy being there — a memorable Johannesburg escape where art, nature and luxury truly do meet.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Daniella Lourens.

To book your stay at The Houghton Hotel Spa, Wellness and Golf, visit their website: thehoughtonhotel.com

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Paradise found at The Mora Zanzibar

Upon arrival at the magnificent open‑air reception, we were greeted with a refreshing cocktail and a light snack, a refined welcome that immediately reflected the resort’s standards of excellence. The personalized check‑in, executed with flawless efficiency and genuine attentiveness, established an atmosphere of luxury and distinction, positioning our stay as an experience of true world‑class hospitality.

Our Superior Junior Suite with a tranquil garden view was the perfect retreat. Spacious and elegantly appointed, it combined modern comfort with subtle Zanzibari details that gave the room character. The large bed was inviting and dressed in crisp linens, while the seating area offered a cozy space to unwind. Floor‑to‑ceiling windows opened onto lush greenery, creating a serene backdrop that made mornings feel refreshing and evenings wonderfully calm.

Thoughtful amenities, from a well‑stocked minibar to ample storage, ensured convenience throughout our stay, while the overall ambiance reflected the resort’s commitment to both luxury and relaxation.

The private beach was pristine and peaceful, with turquoise waters and soft white sand. The pools were beautifully designed for relaxation, and we were waited on by attentive, friendly staff who made the experience feel truly indulgent. With plenty of lovely sunshine and refreshing cocktails always at hand, every moment spent by the beach or pool was a dream come true.

Mora Zanzibar offered an abundance of dining options, each with its own distinctive atmosphere and culinary flair. On the evening of our arrival, we indulged in a spectacular gala dinner at Horizon, the resort’s all‑day dining venue that beautifully showcased the variety of restaurants available. Horizon also became a favorite for its delightful breakfasts, served with warmth and efficiency.

A highlight of our stay was meeting Ashok Kumar Pandey, the Food & Beverage Manager, whose passion and dedication were evident throughout. We enjoyed a private Teppanyaki experience at Jikan, where Chef Ludwig entertained us with skill and charisma, making the evening unforgettable. A seaside lunch at Muyuni Beach Club offered relaxed elegance with fresh flavors, while the charming gelato shop provided a sweet treat that perfectly captured the resort’s indulgent spirit.

Looking back, I only wish we had captured images of all the delicious meals we enjoyed during our three‑day stay.

The resort offered a vibrant mix of experiences that made our stay both exciting and memorable. We were captivated by the famous Freedom Dancers, whose performance brought local culture to life with energy and passion. The rooftop silent disco was another highlight, dancing under the stars in a truly unique setting.

We also enjoyed a Swahili bracelet‑making workshop, a creative way to connect with local artistry and take home a meaningful keepsake. In addition, the resort provided beach activities and a wide range of family‑friendly options, ensuring that guests of all ages could enjoy their time to the fullest.

We were delighted to meet Reda and his wonderful team, who made our stay feel so special. We even had a lovely chat with Mr. Reda and Porsche which added a personal and memorable touch to our experience.

Our time at Mora Zanzibar was nothing short of magnificent, and it was difficult to say goodbye. The warmth of the staff, the beauty of the surroundings, and the unforgettable activities created memories we will cherish forever. One day, we hope to return and relive the magic.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Adele Hamman

Click here to book your stay at The Mora Zanzibar

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Turaco Spice Tree, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: Memorable Luxury in Stone Town

From the moment we strolled through the beautiful cobbled streets of Stone Town and arrived at Turaco Spice Tree, we felt instantly welcomed. The hotel’s blend of traditional Zanzibari charm and comfort set the tone for our stay, with warm smiles at reception and an atmosphere that immediately put us at ease.

Its central location made it the perfect base to explore the historic town on foot, and over the course of our four‑day stay, the thoughtful design and inviting spaces consistently promised a memorable experience.

We were delighted when Mr. Hamada Shaltout and his team kindly upgraded us to a Junior One‑Bedroom Suite. The suite was spacious and full of character, with beautifully carved wooden furniture, rich textiles, and traditional Zanzibari details that created an authentic atmosphere. The separate living area offered a comfortable space to relax, while the bedroom felt like a peaceful retreat with its large, inviting bed.

To make our stay even more memorable, a platter of delicious indigenous fruits was delivered to our room, and later that evening, after dinner, we were surprised with a beautifully presented dessert. These thoughtful gestures highlighted the team’s dedication to creating a truly special experience.

Taarab Restaurant

Dining at Taarab Restaurant was a highlight of our stay. The setting combined elegant décor with a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfectly complementing the flavors of Zanzibar. We enjoyed dinner there twice, savoring fresh seafood prepared to perfection, aromatic curries, and traditional Swahili cuisine that captured the island’s culinary heritage.

Each meal was beautifully presented and accompanied by attentive service. Breakfast was equally delightful, and we looked forward to it every morning, a generous spread with both international favorites and local specialties, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead.

The property offers a range of amenities designed to balance relaxation and convenience. Guests can enjoy the indoor pool for a refreshing dip, make use of the well‑equipped fitness center, or unwind in the tranquil garden lounge. The hotel also provides versatile meeting and event spaces, along with reliable Wi‑Fi and attentive housekeeping.

These thoughtful facilities, combined with the warm service, ensure that both leisure and business travelers feel well cared for throughout their stay.

Turaco Spice Tree left us with lasting memories of warm hospitality, authentic Zanzibari charm, and thoughtful touches that made our stay special. Every detail reflected the team’s dedication to excellence. Being close to Stone Town was another highlight, allowing us to step straight into the cobbled streets, vibrant markets, and historic landmarks on foot.

For travelers seeking both tradition and comfort, Turaco Spice Tree is a wonderful choice.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Adele Hamman

To book your stay at Turaco Spice Tree, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, visit their website: www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/znzst-turaco-spice-tree-a-tribute-portfolio-hotel/overview/

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W Bali – Seminyak: A Vibrant Oasis in the Heart of Seminyak

During my recent stay in Bali, I spent three nights at the W Bali – Seminyak, staying in one of their Oasis One Bedroom Villas. From the moment we arrived, the property offered a unique energy – a perfect blend of high-style design and genuine, welcoming hospitality that makes this resort a standout escape in the center of Seminyak’s vibrant scene. The experience truly begins with the arrival itself. The entrance road into the resort is stunning; it feels as though you are entering a hidden jungle, with towering bamboo trees lining the path, instantly distancing you from the bustle of the city. We were welcomed with such warmth, and the experience was made even more exclusive with a separate, dedicated check-in area specifically for villa guests, ensuring a seamlessly private arrival. Waiting for us in the villa was a beautifully curated spread of fresh coconuts, a selection of delicious desserts, a bowl of fresh fruit, and a thoughtful, handwritten letter. It was an incredibly personalized touch that immediately made us feel at home.

Our Oasis One Bedroom Villa was a true Balinese villa experience. The design is sleek and modern, yet the space feels entirely private. The architectural layout maximizes the flow between the airy indoor living space and the outdoor area, where the private pool makes you feel like you are in a world of your own. It is an incredibly tranquil space during the afternoon, and the private pool is also absolutely perfect for a quiet night swim under the stars. The bedroom was another highlight – the bed was exceptionally large and comfortable, ensuring a restful sleep throughout our stay. The bathroom was equally impressive, featuring a spacious double vanity equipped with an extensive range of premium amenities. The attention to detail was evident from the start; we were pleasantly surprised to find the bathtub beautifully decorated with rose petals upon our arrival, which was a lovely, romantic gesture that set the tone for the entire stay.

What truly elevates the stay at W Bali – Seminyak is the staff. We were particularly touched by the service of our buggy driver, Andre. He was the sweetest man, always smiling and so chatty, making every trip across the resort grounds feel like a friendly catch-up. This level of care is reflected in the resort’s signature Whatever/Whenever® service, which was incredibly efficient; no request felt too small, and everything was handled with care and intuition.

The resort is designed to offer a complete lifestyle experience, and the dining is a massive part of that. Breakfast each morning was a definitive highlight of the day, offering the flexibility to dine at either FIRE or Starfish Bloo, each providing a distinctly different atmosphere. We found the breakfast experience at FIRE to feel wonderfully personal and interactive; upon entering, guests are invited to choose a personalized coffee mug from a display shelf, which the staff then uses to craft any coffee beverage of your choice. I highly recommend their coffee frappe, while my husband thoroughly enjoyed the vanilla latte. Alongside an extensive breakfast buffet, FIRE offers an à la carte menu of made-to-order hot dishes, from which I ordered the eggs benedict – a highly recommended choice.

Conversely, breakfast at Starfish Bloo was one of the most impressive buffets I have ever experienced. Set against beautiful outdoor seating that allows you to start your day with sweeping ocean views, the spread truly has everything one could wish for. Alongside a menu of made-to-order hot dishes and the ability to order any coffee you desire, the buffet features an incredible variety – from fresh sushi and local Balinese foods to homemade smoothies and pressed juices. During the day, the WET® pool, with its rice-field-inspired design, acts as a stunning centerpiece for the property. While soaking up the sun around the pool, I had a Mexican slushy cocktail that was absolutely delicious – the perfect, refreshing companion for a warm afternoon. If you are seeking a quieter moment to simply breathe and relax, the resort also features a beautiful “oasis” area – a serene, lushly landscaped sanctuary within the grounds that feels like a peaceful retreat away from the main hub of activity. In the evenings, Starfish Bloo became a fast favorite; the stunning sunsets viewed from the restaurant provided a breathtaking and unforgettable backdrop to end our days.

For those looking to recharge, the 24/7 AWAY® Spa provided a truly restorative environment. I treated myself to a traditional Balinese massage, and my therapist, Sherly, delivered an incredibly relaxing and expertly tailored treatment. The spa treatment room itself was strikingly designed, featuring a highly unique and modern treatment bed that visually elevated the entire experience. The wider spa facilities are equally incredible, offering an extensive wellness journey with hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, a steam room, and even an oxygen chamber to fully reset the senses. Thoughtful details extend all the way into the changing rooms, which are fully equipped with premium hair heat styling tools, making it effortless to transition from a day of relaxation to an evening out.

One of the resort’s greatest assets is its location. We loved being within walking distance of Seminyak’s best shopping, restaurants, and local coffee shops. For those wanting to explore a bit further without the hassle of a car, the resort conveniently offers e-motorbikes for rent, providing an easy and fun option for guests to get around. W Bali – Seminyak is a fantastic choice for travelers looking for a stylish, vibrant getaway that doesn’t compromise on comfort or privacy. The combination of the beautiful Oasis One Bedroom Villa, the genuinely warm service from the staff, and the prime location makes it an easy recommendation for anyone visiting Bali. Our stay was rejuvenating, beautifully scenic, and perfectly balanced – a true sanctuary in the middle of Seminyak.

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative, Kayla Robertson

To book your stay at W Bali – Seminyak, visit their website: www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dpswh-w-bali-seminyak/overview/

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Alila Seminyak – A Sophisticated Beachfront Sanctuary on Bali’s Southwest Coast

During our recent visit to Bali, my husband and I spent a few nights at Alila Seminyak, staying in a spectacular Ocean View Suite. From the moment we arrived, everything felt effortlessly sophisticated, with a calming atmosphere and attentive service – making Alila a standout beachfront retreat right in the heart of Seminyak’s vibrant scene.

The suite itself was beautifully designed with contemporary Balinese minimalism, offering a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living. Our private balcony quickly became the heart of our stay, providing the perfect setting to relax and take in the sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a thoughtful welcome display and a wonderful array of in-room treats, including a traditional Balinese sweet, fresh fruits, and dried mango, which immediately made us feel at home.

The room featured a beautifully appointed, spa-like bathroom complete with a luxurious bathtub and an incredibly extensive array of signature organic Alila Living bath products. We were pleasantly surprised to find everything we could possibly need already provided, from a shaving kit to thoughtful tropical essentials like insect repellent, after-sun care, and even sunscreen. The addition of an in-room espresso machine with premium coffee capsules was another small but wonderful touch. The sliding doors expertly blocked out the ambient sounds of the nearby beach clubs, ensuring our room was a peaceful, quiet escape.

The resort’s sleek, eco-friendly architecture and expansive oceanfront location add to its vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. What makes the grounds truly special, however, is the beautiful Balinese temple, dating back to 1980, preserved right at the heart of the resort, adding a wonderful touch of authentic culture and spiritual heritage to the modern design. Being right on the beach, we had front-row seats to Seminyak’s famous sunsets. There were multiple pools available across the property, but I loved the infinity pools – they offered the absolute best views of the ocean, visually melting right into the horizon. The adults-only Serene Pool was a particular favourite, providing a quiet, uninterrupted space to lounge and recharge. For lunch around the pool, we enjoyed calamari, popcorn chicken, and truffle fries – the perfect snack foods. The waiters around the pool were super friendly and attentive, ensuring we had everything we needed while we soaked up the sun.

Daily breakfast was served at Seasalt, the resort’s stunning oceanfront restaurant, offering the best of both worlds: a beautifully curated breakfast buffet alongside a menu of made-to-order hot dishes. My favourite was the avocado toast, which paired perfectly with their fresh-pressed juices. Another standout for me was their coconut iced latte made with a deliciously sweet pandan syrup—it became my go-to breakfast order every morning while the ocean breeze added a beautiful natural element to the start of our day.

Our evening dining experiences were just as impressive and wonderfully varied. One evening, we were treated to a taco night featuring a live cooking station with burger sliders and tacos – the birria tacos were an absolute standout and so delicious. The following night, perfectly matching our love for Asian flavor profiles, I had a phenomenal nasi goreng for my meal. We were also lucky enough to experience their spectacular Sunday brunch, made even better by our waitress, Krishna, who was incredibly nice and attentive. Across our dining experiences, Andi was another great waiter whose stellar service truly elevated our meals.

Alila Seminyak offers a fantastic schedule of daily activities, ensuring there is always something engaging to experience – which also makes the resort a good choice for families. Along with these activities, the resort provides complimentary bicycles and a local shuttle service, allowing easy access to nearby boutiques and attractions.

If you’re after some relaxation, Spa Alila is a little slice of heaven. We treated ourselves to a traditional Balinese massage, and my therapist, Putri, was incredibly sweet and made sure the experience was perfectly tailored and soothing. We also loved spending golden hour at the Beach Bar, where the coconut margarita quickly became my favourite cocktail – in fact, it was so good I drank it every single day!

The resort’s gift shop was also a highlight, stocking the best souvenirs to take home. It offered a wonderful selection of locally crafted keepsakes, making it incredibly easy to pick up thoughtful gifts for loved ones back home.

The service at Alila Seminyak was exceptional and genuinely attentive. The staff always went out of their way to ensure our comfort, remembering our preferences and providing great local recommendations. The housekeeping staff left a lasting impression with their thoughtful touches, leaving us a lovely handwritten note wishing us a nice day alongside a towel beautifully folded into a flower.

Alila Seminyak is a perfect pick for travellers looking for a stylish, luxury-focused getaway that combines beachfront vibrancy with exceptional comfort and sustainability.

Our stay at Alila Seminyak was rejuvenating, beautifully scenic, and perfectly balanced, and it’s a property I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a modern, sophisticated retreat in Bali.

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative, Deborah Robertson

To book your stay at Alila Seminyak, visit their website: https://www.hyatt.com/alila-hotels-and-resorts/en-US/dpsas-alila-seminyak

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Wow! A beyond-5-star Experience at Preidlhof Luxury DolceVita Resort’s Transformational Wellness Retreat

In late October, my fiancé and I were graciously hosted for a few days at Preidlhof Luxury DolceVita Resort and experienced their exceptional wellness retreat with some Glowing Flow sessions. The resort is operated and owned by the Ladurner family who have a proud heritage of farming organic apples in the region. The owners are very hands on, and were often visible in various areas overseeing operations during the course of the day – a testament to the level of service and attention to detail – always surpassing expectations.

Champagne on Arrival
Shop

We had a warm welcome on arrival, with a swift check-in whilst taking in the vibrant decor of the reception area, and were very well looked after with our car being parked for us and our luggage brought directly up to our room.

The resort is nestled on the slopes above the Italian village of Naturno in the Dolomites of South Tyrol. This magnificent location is famed for receiving the most year-round sunshine in the region, we enjoyed perfectly mild Autumn weather and were comfortably able to enjoy swimming in the outdoor heated pools. Close to the Austrian border, it blends the best of German and Italian cultures and is surrounded by majestic mountains that create an atmosphere of pure serenity. 

Our stay included some wonderful healing retreat treatments, the first of which was a Sound Healing session, perfect to set the tone of connecting to your inner calm and embrace some time with yourself to indulge in relaxation. The sounds carried us in and out of a drifting state of semi-sleep, which afterwards leaves you feeling completely rejuvenated. Soon after that, I was blessed to meet Stefano Battaglia internationally renowned holistic Master specialized in trauma healing, for a “Glowing Flow” session. The time spent with him was a groundbreaking experience for me, something that has encouraged me to start a new journey of finding more joy in life, and with that, inner peace. 

In the morning on our second day we were pampered by a couples “Happy Massage” in a scenic room out on the rooftop garden. Later on I received the most incredible facial, I was so impressed with the results that I wanted to purchase the Face Mask—one of the exclusive products formulated and created especially for the Preidlhof Spa. I was also privileged to visit the Med Spa and meet Dr. Alexander Angerer, who in a short assessment managed to offer some excellent remedies for stress and sleep deprivation which I am duly implementing and am happy to report that it is definitely helping.

Our dinner and breakfast meals were served in the comfortable Spa VIP area at a table reserved for the duration of our stay. Breakfast and dinner had à la carte menus, and were also accompanied by choices from the expansive buffet. Since we took a later start on our days we didn’t quite have the space to fit in the sumptuous lunch buffet!

The breakfast buffet was by far the best I have ever experienced, with a full selection of breads and rolls, croissants, real fresh honeycomb, cereals, yogurts, bircher meusli, all types of cheeses, cold meats, smoked salmon, fresh fruits, a juicer, and even different types of butter. The chefs were at hand to serve up eggs whichever way you preferred with sides of other hot items, such as our favourite which was their perfect crispy bacon. 

The dinner menu was very flexible by offering 2 set menus as well as a variety of traditional main courses which could all be enjoyed and interchanged per your preference. Every dish we tried was beautifully presented and oh so tasty, in short, all the food was just fantastic!

With the Chef, Angelo

Our waiter, Peter was very friendly with a keen sense of humour and great attention to detail, he made our short stay even more memorable by chatting with us here and there between taking care of his other guests. On our second evening, a musician was playing in the bar, so we settled onto a comfy couch in a cozy nook meant for relaxing or playing board games with friends. We enjoyed a drink and soaked in the warm atmosphere.

Another highlight of our stay was the time spent enjoying the saunas and bathing areas. We indulged in the smorgasbord of options for an entire afternoon. We tried all the fabulous saunas (from as hot as 90 degrees); there was a sunset sauna, an event sauna – both offering stunning mountain view’s, an olive sauna, a wine sauna, a steam room, a snow room, an icy plunge pool, jacuzzi, heated infinity pools, fabulous shower rooms and even a musical light relaxation room, all were simply marvellous fun! 

Snow Room
Event Sauna
Wine Sauna

Everything was nothing short of perfect, except knowing that we had to leave far too soon! The setting, the food, the spa, the activities available were all next-level awesome. Activities available include yoga sessions, fitness classes and even aqua gym. On top of that, the hiking and mountain biking trails are a big attraction in the area – these appealed especially to my super-fit running and biking fiancé, due to an injury he could not take advantage this time. He’s already determined to return when he can explore those trails properly—and make the most of the gym. The gym’s fabulous setting, with its panoramic views, sits right beside the beautiful main outdoor pool which even has a direct indoor entrance.

There are 5 star resorts and then there is Preidlhof Luxury DolceVita Resort, a destination beyond 5 stars. Collectively both my fiancé and I have travelled extensively, and this is by far the best experience we have ever had, quite simply it exceeded all expectations. 

Wall of Love

Thank you to Patrizia, Wellness Designer, for showing us around, and for being so thoughtful with organising the perfect treatments for us; thank you to the warm and welcoming spa managers, Alessandra and Sabrina, a very special thank you to Carmine for organising everything from the start, and for that huge smile always exuding happiness. 

Finally, a heartfelt thank you to the Ladurner family for creating such a special place to relax, re-connect and take an incredible well-being journey whilst enjoying the finer things in life.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Linda Cooper.

For more information or to make a booking at Priedlhof Luxury DolceVita Resort, visit: https://www.preidlhof.com/en/