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The Racha – An eco-luxury resort on the island of Racha Yai, Thailand

The Racha is located on Racha Yai island which is about a 30-minute speedboat ride from Chalong Pier in Phuket. The island has the most beautiful natural scenery and breathtaking sunsets, it is also a well-known spot for diving and snorkeling.

The meeting point is at The Racha Chalong Lounge at Chalong Pier which is about an hour’s drive from the Phuket International Airport. At the lounge, they offer Wi-Fi as well as complimentary snacks and drinks. It is advised to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled boat trip.

Upon arrival at the lounge, we were offered a choice of different scents for our room on the island.

We decided upon lemongrass as the staff explained that is repels mosquitos, as well as having a natural tropical smell.

We took a shuttle bus from the lounge directly to the boat and the staff assisted with our luggage. The speedboat ride was a fun experience, and the weather was perfect.

Upon arriving at The Racha, you are welcomed by crystal blue water and powdery white sands.  

We were escorted to the welcome area at the resort and offered a scented cold towel and a special purple drink. The front office staff assisted us to our room and explained the services and facilities on the way.

We checked into a Grand Deluxe Villa for three nights, and it was just what we needed. A comfortable bed, indoor and outdoor showers, bathtub, luxurious amenities, and a terrace with sea views.

We arrived at the resort around 2pm in the afternoon, so we headed to the pool for lunch and a dip.

The adults-only infinity pool is the heart of the resort, it has the best view of the island and is the perfect place for a day of relaxing and sun tanning.

There are complimentary water bottles available around the pool and you can order drinks and food during the day.

The beach is another option for relaxing and sunbathing, there are lounger chairs and hammocks on the grass in front of the resort and beach towels available. The palm trees all around the resort make it such a relaxing atmosphere. The weather was perfect and every day we swam in the ocean and the pools.

The resort has a very laid-back ambience and is a great option for couples and even families who just want to relax.

There are numerous activities available on the island, including complimentary watersports such as kayak and snorkeling. This island offers some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Phuket. I would encourage everyone to try the water sports, the staff are knowledgeable and will assist with everything.

You can also explore the island by foot, there are a few beaches a short distance away from the main beach, which is more secluded. The reception will give you a map and are happy to help with directions.

They also offer chargeable activities such as island hopping, sunset cruises, ATV’s and guided hikes, which can all be booked via their mobile app. You can also ask any questions via the live chat on their app which is really convenient.

The resort also has a PADI certified diving center for those interested in learning to dive.

For those just wanting to relax, you can opt for a treatment at the Anumba Spa. The Spa also offers daily complimentary yoga sessions, which is also suitable for beginners. I would definitely recommend anyone to try yoga, the instructor is so friendly and its just a fun experience to try something new. 

Sunsets at The Racha are magical. Six thirty until seven thirty at night is the best time of day for me. We made sure to book the best table at the restaurant which has a perfect view of the ocean and the sunset. Enjoy a fresh coconut or a cocktail as the sun sets.

The main restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, we sat outside all three nights because of the stunning views. Just ensure you spray mosquito repellant when sitting outside at night.

The restaurant menu is extensive, they offer international favorites as well as Thai specialties. I suggest you try a Thai dish at least once, for example the Pineapple fried rice, such a flavorful dish. I also had the mango Crème Brûlée which was 10/10.

If you are on a romantic holiday, you can book the private dining area which is set up right in front of the resort with unobstructed views of the bay.

The breakfast buffet has a great variety including an egg station where the chefs prepare eggs benedict or omelettes for you. They also offered complimentary sparking wine at breakfast for those wanting to make a mimosa.

The resort also has a gelato shop which is open during the day and is the perfect place for an afternoon scoop to cool down. Next to the resort entrance, there are a few small local stores which sell all kinds of snacks, and even swimwear and accessories.

I had a wonderful holiday, there is so much to do on the island, but it also is just so relaxing to do nothing if you want.

The staff were friendly and attentive, and the whole team delivered beyond my expectation.

Overall, I had a fabulous time at The Racha, thank you to all the staff who made my stay memorable, I will be back in a heartbeat.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay at The Racha, visit their website: www.theracha.com

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Pan Pacific London – a modern urban retreat in the heart of the City of London.

When in London we had the pleasure of spending a night at Pan Pacific London. We arrived to immediately feel embraced by the ambience and were impressed with the décor which was matched by the friendly and attentive staff who welcomed us.

My partner and I enjoyed the comfort of a beautiful en-suite deluxe room with a stunning view of the city. The room was super-modern with all the amenities at hand to make one feel at home. 

We chose to dine at the in-house restaurant, Straits Kitchen, which proved to be an experience we will never forget. The restaurant serves South East Asian food with dishes from Singapore. Our favourite was the variety of small plates, which included spring rolls, prawns and vegetables, to top it all off, we indulged in the Mandarin dessert which was absolutely delicious. 

My partner and I are both very keen on keeping up with our gym routines when travelling and this was undoubtedly the best gym I have ever seen in a hotel. The gym is fully equipped with the latest technologies and is clean and organized. We also took the opportunity to have an afternoon dip in the pool at the spa, it was extremely relaxing and the setting was amazing with an incredible view of the city. 

We will definitely return to Pan Pacific London on our next visit to London.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Shannon Langeveldt

Book a stay at Pan Pacific London: www.panpacific.com/en/booking/search.html?propertyCode=pplon

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SOFITEL Legend the Grand Amsterdam – an unforgettable experience…

SOFITEL Legend the Grand Amsterdam certainly makes a grand first impression which was upheld throughout the entire luxurious experience of our stay.

The Lobby

We received a warm welcome on arrival with the full attention of the Concierge who assisted us to make the most of our visit by immediately booking us on a boat tour for the next day which conveniently left from the canal directly outside the hotel – this was definitely a highlight of our Amsterdam experience.

Stunning Marble Staircase

As the name suggests, the hotel exudes grandeur, with a stylish interior reflecting modern influences, contrasting perfectly with the obvious history of the city. We took a historical tour of the hotel and discovered many interesting facts, including that many years ago the building was 2 separate convents alongside each other, the buildings were eventually combined and the hotel was also the City Hall for a number of years.

Stained Glass Window – From Rotterdam to Amsterdam

The hotel offers a perfectly situated location, within easy walking distance of the Central train station and right at the heart of Amsterdam’s major attractions.

Beautiful Hotel Garden’s

The gardens of the hotel are a peaceful haven in the heart of a busy city, immaculately maintained with great attention to detail, amongst all the greenery we spotted trees full of beautifully ripe apricots!

Bridges Restaurant

The well known, Michelin star restaurant, Bridges was outstanding for daily breakfast, the best we have ever experienced. The newly opened Oriole garden bistro, offering indoor and outdoor dining, provided exceptional taste experiences after a long day exploring the city.

The luxurious SPA

All amenities are provided from luxury spa to gym an d an indoor swimming pool and sauna.

Meeting Kirsten and Anne Claire

Sofitel Legend the Grand Amsterdam is certainly an unforgettable legend.

Reviewed by: World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative Linda Cooper

To book a stay at this magnificent property simply follow the link: www.sofitel-legend-thegrand.com

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The Taj Cape Town – an oasis of calm in Cape Town City Centre…

Situated in the bustling Cape Town City Centre, The Taj hotel is within close distance to all local attractions.  We arrived at the Taj on a rainy Friday afternoon. The Staff warmly greeted us with umbrellas and took care of parking our vehicle. Entering the Taj is like entering another era; the grandeur and splendour of the lobby area simply takes your breath away.

After a smooth check in we were escorted to our room. We stayed in a Luxury Room in the King Tower wing with a view of Table Mountain and the bustling streets below. We were greeted with a welcoming snack of nuts and fruit, a bottle of white wine and note from the General Manager. The room was spacious with elegant designs and finishes. The bathroom for me was simply stunning with the perfect layout and marble finishes.

After settling in we headed to the lobby to enjoy an afternoon tea and snack while listening to the rain fall outside.

The fitness centre at The TAJ hotel is one of the best I have experienced. State of the art equipment including free weights and stretching equipment made for an intense training session. Fresh towels and water are available at each machine. There is also an indoor heated swimming pool if you wish to get in a few laps.

Dinner at Mint Restaurant was absolutely fantastic. Friendly staff, efficient service and a menu that will satisfy any craving made for the perfect evening. There was also live jazz music which added to the ambiance.

After a good nights rest in the King size bed we enjoyed a Buffet Breakfast which was incredible. From every cereal imaginable and English breakfast options to sushi and a variety of pastries we had it all!

Jiva Spa was the absolute highlight of our stay. We were treated to a 60minute couples Indian Aromatherapy massage. This was an amazing and relaxing experience from start to finish. A special thank you to Bianca who was my therapist – she has magic hands!

Overall my experience at the TAJ Cape Town was incredible. From Check in to check out everything was perfect. The staff are friendly and welcoming, the facilities are world class and the food is superb. I left thoroughly refreshed and would highly recommend the TAJ Cape Town to anyone visiting South Africa and hope to visit again soon – one night is just to short!

Reviewed by Tanique Echardt – Executive Manager of the World Luxury Hotel Awards

To book a stay at this incredible Hotel:

www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-cape-town/

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Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort, Algarve – A piece of heaven in Portugal…

Pine Cliffs resort is located in the Algarve with one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. When you drive through the resort you feel like you’re driving through a beautiful little town.

Upon check in, we were greeted by friendly staff and promptly taken to our room. We stayed in a deluxe room on the 2nd floor, with a balcony overlooking the Resort. The bed was very comfortable, and the interior of the room was beautifully designed.

There are multiple swimming pools at the hotel and the gym and indoor pool overlooks the Resort grounds. To get to the beach, you need to take an elevator from the hotel down to ground level.

On the pathway to the beach you are surrounded by the most beautiful and unique red cliffs. On the beach there are complimentary lounger chairs and towels. There is also a boathouse with many water activities including jet skis.

The beach restaurant called Mare, was a great dining experience. The food was delicious, and you have a great view of the ocean and beach. For sun downers we went to the Mirador champagne bar. When the sun hits the red cliffs its almost like they glow, it was a breathtaking view.

Dinner at Yakuza was amazing, it is a Japanese inspired restaurant. I would eat there every night if I could. We had two breakfast options every morning and both were great. A huge selection of food is on offer along with great service.

Overall Pine Cliffs was an amazing experience, we wish we never had to leave the Resort because they literally have everything you want inside the resort. Highly recommended and I would love to visit again soon.

Reviewed by Kayla Lourens – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To book a stay in paradise:

www.pinecliffs.com

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The Level at Melia Barcelona Sky – The perfect City Escape

The Level at Melia Barcelona Sky is located in the El Poblenou neighborhood and within walking distance of the metro station. The metro connects the entire city which was extremely convenient.

The level reception is located on the 25th floor of the building and we were checked in by Marta. Check in was done smoothly and Marta gave us all the information we needed. I would like to give a special thank you to Marta for helping us with all our bookings and transfers. She was amazing.

We stayed in a spacious suite on the 27th floor of the hotel which gave us amazing views of the city. The room had a big lounge area and a separate area for luggage storage. The bed was extremely comfortable, and the bathroom had a double shower as well as a bath.

View from our room:

The pool area was great, with many lounge chairs and a few double loungers which were very comfortable. The weather was also perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Breakfast was served on the 24th floor with seating areas on both sides of the building so you had a choice of a city or ocean view. There was a huge variety of food and drinks at breakfast and very high quality, it was delicious.

On the 25th floor there was a special dining and lounge area only for selected guests. Complimentary food and drinks were served throughout the day. Tapas and sun downers were also served every evening around sunset.

What an amazing experience, I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Barcelona and I hope to visit again soon.

Reviewed by Kayla Lourens – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To book a stay at this incredible hotel

https://www.melia.com/es/hoteles/espana/barcelona/the-level-at-melia-barcelona-sky/

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EPIC SANA Algarve – Paradise found …

EPIC SANA Algarve is located on Falésia Beach, which is one of the longest, and most beautiful beaches in Portugal. We were checked in by Stefanie, who showed us all the hotel facilities on our way to the room.  She also helped us with restaurant bookings throughout out trip.

We stayed in a Grand Deluxe Garden Duplex Suite. The balcony overlooks a beautiful garden and over the trees you can see the ocean. Downstairs we had a big lounge area and a fully equipped kitchenette. We were also given a complimentary bottle of wine and a platter of chocolates upon turn down.

The gym is open 24 hours and has all the necessary equipment. It is right next to the indoor heated pool which is also open 24 hours. The spa is beautiful and also has a separate heated pool and a relaxation room.

Breakfast was great, all the food was so fresh and delicious. The chef made really good omelets. We also had a choice of sitting inside or outside in the sun, which was great. The Manager came to check on us every morning, it was great to have such personalized service and hospitality.

Every night in the main restaurant there was a buffet dinner and the cuisine changes each evening. The hotel is also located within walking distance of many local restaurants and shops.

There is a beautiful wooden pathway leading to the beach with amazing views. There is also a “love tree” in their garden which is great for couples. There you can hang up a wooden heart and write your personal message on it and leave it to hang on one of the tree’s branches.

The hotel has two outdoor swimming pools and one is for adults only. So, it’s great if you want some peace and quiet. And if you’re with kids you can relax at the family pool.  There is also a nice restaurant next to the pool which is open for lunch and dinner.

The hotel is so peaceful and relaxing, we really enjoyed every moment at the hotel and hope to visit again soon. A huge thank you to the EPIC SANA team for making us feel so relaxed and at home.

Reviewed By: Kayla Lourens – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To book a stay at this stunning Property

www.algarve.epic.sanahotels.com:

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Diamante Beach Spa Hotel & Convention Centre – The perfect spot for a business or leisure Holiday…

Diamante Beach Spa Hotel & Convention Centre is located in the small coastal town of Calpe in Spain. The hotel is perfectly located just a street up from the beach which has many shops and restaurants.

What a welcoming hotel, the staff made us feel instantly at home. We were checked in promptly and the staff were so friendly. Our room was on the top floor which gave us a great view of the ocean.

The beds were very comfortable, and the bathroom had all the amenities we needed and more. The view from our room’s terrace was just amazing. We were given a special fruit platter upon arrival which was delicious.

There are two pools with a kids pool and many lounge chairs for sunbathing. The spa was an experience on its own. A heated pool and many different showers and baths around it. Definitely one of the best spas I’ve visited.

Breakfast was delicious, many different food stations with a big variety. The coffee was great, and the service was friendly and attentive. A great way to start my day.

Audrey’s is a Michelin star restaurant located in the hotel. We had a special lunch and wine pairing. Chef Rafa greeted us personally and it was a culinary experience that I will remember for the rest of my life.

I would like to thank the entire team of Diamante Beach Spa Hotel & Convention Centre for making my stay unforgettable. Thank you for spoiling us and showing us what true hospitality is.

Reviewed By: Kayla Lourens – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To book a stay at this beautiful hotel:
www.diamantebeach.com

 

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The Kayon Jungle Resort – A magical Jungle experience…

My first surprise when arriving at The Kayon Jungle Resort was the location – the resort is located approx. 20km North of central Ubud, but with their excellent in-house transfer service; accessing Ubud proved really easy and travelling the local road an enjoyable trip to see more of the beautiful rural setting.

The Resort and facilities were really magnificent and exceeded all expectation in a spectacular setting. My room was my own private paradise!

My best impression of The Kayon Jungle Resort was the friendly service and reception I received from the staff. On arrival and check in I was asked how I would like to be addressed and after that everybody down to the room personnel, knew who I was and addressed me as such in a respectful but informal way. What a wonderful personal touch to make one feel truly at home.

I am grateful for the experience and my stay and can happily recommend this as a unique Ubud jungle getaway.

World Luxury Hotel Awards can be proud to represent this sublime Resort.

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To book a room at this Jungle Hideaway:

https://www.thekayonjungleresort.com/

 

 

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A Weekend at the InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport – South Africa

Getting off my plane at the Johannesburg airport in South Africa, I was ecstatic to discover that my hotel, InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport is merely 67.8 metres away from the arrival terminal. I was met by a handsome gentleman in a beautiful grey uniform holding up a digital tablet with my name on it. He assisted me with my luggage and escorted me to the entrance of the hotel lobby. After a long flight it is a great delight to be able to immediately check into a luxurious Hotel.

The hotel’s lobby lounge has an electrifying energy as it is filled with a combination of foreign and local business executive, corporate experts as well as leisure guests visiting the economic hub of South Africa. The hotel features modern and elegant décor, While the interior design boasts beautiful African design elements with art pieces that makes guests want to stop to admire and take a picture.

The hotel lobby leads into the Quills Restaurant and Cocktail Bar to the left and the corporate meeting rooms to the right. The exquisite high sealing gives the impression of a modern African palace.

Going up the elevator I found my room on the 6th floor. Room 619 features a beautiful view of the busy airport hub. The room is generous in size and featured an entrance lobby, huge bathroom, a seating area, big elegant desk, modern television and bed fit for an African king.

In the lobby of my room I was presented with complimentary sherry in a beautiful crystal decanter on a table. Upon entering the room I found delicious savoury treats that consisted of South African biltong, nuts and dried fruit. This was an extra gift from the concierge team, along with a welcome card personally written by the hotel General Manager. The room amenities include an espresso machine, minibar, DVD player as well as a special device that can be used to press trousers. I enjoyed the big comfortable bed when resting as well as the broad desk when completing work on my laptop. The wireless internet is fast and efficient, making it a breeze to connect. The room is beautifully decorated with subtle African features and is enhanced by the ample natural light that creates a calm environment but also features blackout curtains when darkness is required. The shower head in the bathroom was huge, the towels and linen soft, comforting and room service is as fast as lightning. What more can a guest need?

Quills Restaurant serves a selection of international dishes. They have taken the most popular dishes around the world and have given them a South Africa twist. I stayed at the hotel for two nights. The first evening I ordered room service and had the delicious Caesar salad that was served with a deep fried bacon and cheese covered egg. The second night I dined in the restaurant. The restaurant is very busy and I would recommend to book in advance. For dinner I had the most delicious salmon dish to date. The salmon was cooked perfectly and the combination of sauce, garish and seasoning was absolute perfection. The cuisine at the restaurant provides an interesting and refreshing twist on classic dishes, but also features exotic game dishes like crocodile warthog, kudu and ostrich, paired with outstanding South African wines. The portions are generous and the ingredients fresh and delicious. The waitron staff are extremely social and friendly. Even though you are in a formal restaurant setting they make you feel comfortable and at home.

Quills Restaurant also features a bar and cocktail lounge which is perfect for relaxing at leisure or meeting business associates over drinks. It is a very popular spot and the lounge is always busy, giving it an electric atmosphere.

The hotel boats a selection of elegant meeting rooms and an impressive business centre. There is also a special smoking room where guests can relax, read a newspaper, have a beverage or get up to date with the latest news via the television.

Going up to the 8th floor is where you will find the spa, the swimming pool as well as the gym. The swimming pool and gym have a spectacular view, which makes working out even more pleasant. The gym is big in size and well equipped with a full range of fitness machinery allowing a full body workout.

The Camelot Spa offers a variety of impressive treatments including beauty treatments, body scrub, body wrap, facials, foot reflexology, manicures, pedicures, paraffin hand treatments as well as waxing. The products that they use in the spa includes, Thalgo and Milk Solutions. The Spa caters to both male and female guests and also offers the standard locker room and steam facilities.

The Camelot Universal Signature Massage is a good option to experience a combination of Hot Stone, Kahuna, Balinese and Indian Head massage techniques. This massage incorporates the use of a unique massage candle, where the fragrance and softness of your skin lingers in guests’ mind long after you have left the spa.

Overall I had a fantastic experience at the hotel. The staff delivered on all my requests at a rapid pace and with precision. Even when I had to leave the hotel for an appointment the service did not end. I was provided with an excellent driver and a luxury vehicle to transfer me safely to and from my destination. I thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the staff, their conduct was always professional but extremely charming and warm. I would recommend InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport to anyone heading to Johannesburg.

Reviewed by Michelle Snyman

Brand Manager & Events Coordinator – World Luxury Hotel Awards

To enjoy a stay at this beautiful Hotel:

Book Here