Tag: hotel rooms

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La Petite Ferme – A Vineyard Escape in Franschhoek

Perched amongst the vineyards with the Franschhoek mountains as its backdrop, La Petite Ferme is the kind of place that immediately makes you slow down and take in your surroundings. We were fortunate enough to spend a weekend here with surprisingly gorgeous weather, which allowed us to enjoy the estate at its very best.

From the moment we arrived, we received such a warm welcome from Henrico at the front office. Full of energy, friendly and genuinely enthusiastic, he immediately made us feel at home and set the tone for our stay.

Fresh pink proteas in the reception area added a gorgeous pop of colour and a distinctly South African touch.

Our Vineyard Suite

We stayed in the Provencale Suite, one of La Petite Ferme’s Vineyard Suites, and our room was quite simply to die for.

The first thing that caught our attention was the view. Huge windows frame the vineyards and surrounding mountains, making the landscape feel like part of the room itself. The interiors have so much character and texture, with thoughtful design details throughout. Fresh pink proteas, matching those we had admired in reception, were arranged in our room and looked striking against the natural tones of the suite.

I particularly loved the bedside lamps and the gorgeous ottoman, while the enormous bed with its crisp, clean linen was extremely inviting. It was one of those rooms where you keep noticing little details the longer you spend in it.

The suite is also well equipped for every season, with air-conditioning, a fan and underfloor heating depending on your preference.

One of my favourite features was the bathroom. The bathtub sits alongside large windows overlooking the vineyards and mountains, creating the perfect spot for a long soak while taking in the view. La Petite Ferme uses TheraVine bathroom amenities, which smell absolutely divine.

There are plenty of thoughtful extras too. The minibar is complimentary and replenished daily, and I loved the selection of teas as well as the tub of buttermilk rusks in the room. We were also welcomed with a complimentary bottle of La Petite Ferme Sauvignon Blanc.

Outside, the private patio is such a peaceful place to spend the afternoon. Our suite had its own pool, with sun loungers that were perfect for relaxing in the sunshine.

On Friday evening, we were treated to the most spectacular sunset, with the sky turning shades of pink over the vineyards and mountains. It was one of those views you could happily sit and watch for hours.

Dinner at La Petite Ferme

Dinner was another highlight of our stay.

The restaurant has such a romantic ambience, with the tables positioned to face the surrounding vineyards and Franschhoek landscape. Even while dining, the scenery remains a big part of the experience.

I also have to mention the music. The playlist was so well chosen throughout our stay, with songs that seemed to perfectly complement the mood of the restaurant. It is a small detail, but one that added so much to the atmosphere.

The interiors are equally impressive, including a striking Murano glass sculpture displayed on the restaurant wall. It immediately catches your eye and adds an artistic focal point to the space.

Wanda looked after us during dinner and was wonderful. I really enjoyed the variety on the menu, as well as the little surprises between courses.

We started with a bread course of soft milk bread with cinnamon butter. The bread was so good that it almost tasted like dessert, then followed an amuse-bouche of smoked snoek served on sushi rice.

For my starter, I chose the crisp linefish, which was packed with flavour. My main course was the teriyaki beef, rich, full of flavour and perfectly portioned without being overly heavy.

A particularly thoughtful moment came when the manager noticed that we weren’t drinking alcohol. He offered to create a special mocktail for us using buchu syrup and soda water, and I honestly loved it. It was refreshing and different, and I appreciated that he took the initiative to make something especially for us.

A granadilla sorbet served as our palate cleanser before dessert, and we finished by sharing the Gorgonzola ice cream with poached pears. If you’re a Gorgonzola lover, this is definitely one to try. It was unusual, bold and memorable.

Breakfast & Slow Afternoons

Breakfast the following morning was equally enjoyable. Nicole looked after us and welcomed us with the loveliest smile.

Breakfast combines a continental buffet with an à la carte menu of freshly prepared hot dishes, so there is plenty to choose from. Our favourite was the bacon eggs Benedict, definitely one I would order again.

Some of my favourite moments at La Petite Ferme, however, were the simplest ones.

In the afternoon, guests are invited to enjoy complimentary teatime with a slice of cake. Sitting outside with a cup of tea, looking over the vineyards and listening to the birds chirping around us was so relaxing. It was one of those moments where you realise there really is nowhere else you need to be.

There is also a small gift shop to browse and bicycles available for guests to use. The lawn overlooking the valley is another idyllic spot to settle in and watch the sunset with a glass of wine as the light changes over the Franschhoek mountains.

Wine Tasting for Every Season

La Petite Ferme also offers guests a complimentary daily wine tasting, which is another great inclusion and an easy way to experience the estate’s wines without having to leave the property.

With the gorgeous weather we had, the outdoor terrace was the perfect place for it. Tucked beneath the restaurant, however, is a cosy wine cellar that made me think how special La Petite Ferme must be in winter too.

On a cold or rainy Franschhoek day, guests can enjoy a wine tasting down here with the fireplace lit. I could easily imagine settling into the cellar beside the fire while the rain falls outside. Very cosy and completely different from the sunny experience we had.

It is touches like this that make the property feel suited to every season.

Final Thoughts

What stood out most about our stay at La Petite Ferme was how effortlessly everything came together: the spectacular location, stylish suite, excellent food, generous complimentary experiences and genuinely warm service.

There is something so peaceful about waking up to vineyards outside your window, spending an afternoon beside your private pool, having tea while listening to birds in the gardens and ending the day watching the Franschhoek sky turn pink over the mountains.

The smaller details stayed with me too, from the fresh pink proteas and carefully chosen restaurant playlist to the smell of the TheraVine products, the buttermilk rusks waiting in our room and the manager going out of his way to create a buchu mocktail especially for us.

Combined with the warm, genuine service we received from Henrico, Wanda and Nicole, La Petite Ferme delivered exactly the kind of intimate Winelands escape we had hoped for.

It is the kind of place that encourages you to slow down, take in the views and simply enjoy being there. For a weekend in Franschhoek, that was exactly what we wanted.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Robertson

To book your stay at La Petite Ferme, visit their website: https://lapetiteferme.co.za/

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Amanaki Saigon Boutique Hotel: An Artistic Haven in the Heart of Ho Chi Minh City

During my recent trip to Vietnam, my family and I spent three nights at the Amanaki Saigon Boutique Hotel. From the moment we arrived, the property offered a beautifully curated escape – a perfect blend of boutique intimacy and striking design that makes this hotel a standout sanctuary. Despite being located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant hustle and bustle, the hotel feels peaceful, serving as a tranquil retreat that beautifully celebrates South Vietnam’s rich arts and culture.

The experience truly begins with the arrival itself. We were welcomed with genuine warmth and a much-needed serving of fresh coconuts, which was an absolute lifesaver in the crazy June heat. The check-in process was entirely seamless, elevated by the lovely receptionist, Lea. She had thoughtfully arranged our airport pickup and shared excellent local recommendations to help us navigate the city. Walking into the hotel, you are immediately struck by the impressive art collection, particularly in the lobby. The aesthetic is sophisticated and beautiful, giving the space a feeling of home. They even sell a curated selection of local crafts in the lobby, perfect for taking a piece of South Vietnam back with you.

We stayed in one of their Executive Rooms, which provided a comfortable retreat from the vibrant city outside. Despite being a small boutique property, Amanaki Saigon has absolutely everything you need. The room featured a city view, and the air-conditioning was maintained at a perfectly cool temperature – a vital detail after long days of exploring. The bed was large and comfortable, ensuring a restful sleep throughout our stay. We were also pleasantly surprised to find a lovely, romantic bathtub situated right in the room, which was a wonderful touch. The attention to detail was evident from the start, with complimentary local treats and bottled water waiting for us in the room upon arrival.

Breakfast is served each morning in their ground-floor restaurant, providing a varied buffet spread to start the day. Guests can explore a selection of local Vietnamese dishes, fresh fruits, and special local teas, including a unique butterfly pea tea. I opted for the egg station, where you can request a fresh, made-to-order omelette before heading out into the city.

For those looking to keep up with their wellness routine, the hotel features an air-conditioned gym equipped with a treadmill, as well as a small rooftop pool that is absolutely perfect for an afternoon dip. I also loved their commitment to sustainability – there is a wonderful reusable bag station in the lobby where guests can conveniently grab a shopping bag before heading out into the city.

One of the property’s greatest assets is its unparalleled location. We loved being just around the corner from the famous apartment cafes, and the hotel is incredibly walkable to some of the city’s best restaurants and shopping. If you prefer to stay close to home in the evenings, Amanaki’s sister establishments are conveniently located right next door, offering nearby options like drinks at Ômm Mixology or dinner at ÚNU Eatery & Bar, situated within their sister hotel, Anima. There are also multiple convenience stores right nearby for any late-night snack runs. Amanaki Saigon Boutique Hotel is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a highly curated, culturally enriched stay without compromising on comfort. It is an easy recommendation for anyone visiting Ho Chi Minh City.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Robertson

To book your stay at Amanaki Saigon Boutique Hotel, visit their website: amanaki.vn

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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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Villa Air Bali Boutique Resort & Spa – A Private Sanctuary of Serenity in the Heart of Seminyak

Tucked away in the vibrant heart of Seminyak, Villa Air Bali offers a serene escape where contemporary comfort meets traditional Balinese warmth. My friends and I had the pleasure of spending two nights in their 2-Bedroom Bamboo Pool Villa, an elegant haven that felt worlds away from the bustle outside.

From the moment we stepped inside, we were welcomed with genuine hospitality, including a handwritten welcome letter—a small but thoughtful touch that instantly made our stay feel personal. The villa’s design blends natural bamboo elements, soft neutral tones, and lush garden views, creating an atmosphere that is both luxurious and grounding. Beautiful white orchids bloomed throughout the villa’s gardens, adding a delicate and serene touch to the tropical surroundings. Next to the restaurant, the resort includes a garden deck where guests can appreciate the lush tropical setting.

The highlight of our stay was undoubtedly our private villa pool. Surrounded by greenery and complete privacy, it became the heart of our villa life—we spent countless hours relaxing, swimming, and simply taking in the peaceful ambience. The villa’s layout flowed perfectly between the bedrooms, lounge with TV, dining table, kitchenette, and pool, creating a seamless space for relaxation and togetherness.

Breakfast was another memorable part of our stay. We enjoyed both of our breakfasts in the comfort of our villa—one morning with a beautifully presented floating breakfast in our private pool, and the next with a relaxed in-villa breakfast served at our dining table. The food was delicious on both occasions; the eggs benedict and Indonesian fried banana were especially enjoyable, and accompanying fresh juices made each breakfast feel refreshing and indulgent.

The villa’s location is ideal—within walking distance of shops, cafés, and restaurants in Seminyak—while the complimentary private shuttle and guest bicycles made exploring the area effortless and enjoyable.

The staff were wonderful throughout our stay. Ari from the front office was especially helpful and knowledgeable, and Kadek assisted us with bookings and information, ensuring everything was seamless and easy. On departure, we were surprised with a thoughtful farewell gift, a charming gesture that left a lasting impression.

Villa Air Bali is also a popular choice for weddings and special events, offering a romantic and intimate setting that showcases its lush gardens, private pools, and tranquil ambiance.

What truly sets Villa Air Bali apart is its ability to balance privacy, comfort, and genuine warmth. Despite being just minutes from the lively streets of Seminyak, the villa feels like a secluded sanctuary where you can fully unwind.

Our time in the 2-Bedroom Bamboo Pool Villa was peaceful, private, and restorative. Whether visiting with friends, family, or a loved one, Villa Air Bali offers a luxurious Balinese retreat that feels both intimate and unforgettable.

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative, Kayla Robertson

To book your stay at Villa Air Bali, visit their website: www.villa-airbali.com

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Exceptional Stay at Le Méridien Bangkok – A Perfect Urban Escape

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

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

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Kanvaz Village Resort – nothing short of exceptional

My husband and I recently had the pleasure of spending a short stay at Kanvaz Village Resort in Bali.

We were personally welcomed by the General Manager and Marketing Manager on arrival which made us feel incredibly valued and set the tone for an unforgettable experience. Their warm hospitality was a clear reflection of the hotel’s dedication to guest satisfaction.

Our room was absolutely stunning – spacious, beautifully designed, and equipped with all the comforts we could need. Our room had direct access to the pool, allowing us to step right out from our room into the waters.

The pool was a stunning highlight – a tranquil oasis surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for relaxing and unwinding.

The food was equally impressive; every dish we tried was filled with flavors that left us delighted and eager for more.

The buffet breakfast, in particular, was fabulous, offering an incredible variety of fresh and delicious options.

The staff at the restaurant and reception were absolutely outstanding. The restaurant team was attentive and friendly, always ensuring our dining experience was seamless and enjoyable. Similarly, the reception staff went above and beyond, offering helpful recommendations and addressing our every need with efficiency and a warm smile.

The freshly baked pastries were a standout – light, flaky and divine, making breakfast a true indulgence each morning.

One of the most memorable aspects was the complimentary spa treatment. The spa staff ensured a rejuvenating and luxurious experience, adding the perfect touch of indulgence to our stay.

The attention to detail, outstanding service, and personalized welcome made this stay truly remarkable.

We cannot wait to return to this incredible hotel!

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Chanté van Rensburg.

For more information or to book your stay, visit: https://www.kanvazhotelbali.com

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The Stratford

A contemporary luxury design hotel in London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

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

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The Waldorf Hilton, London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

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

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

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

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Hilton London Heathrow Airport

Modern Luxury Hotel located near Heathrow Airport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

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

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Pondoro Game Lodge – A luxury bush holiday with excellent hospitality

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

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