Posted on

Prana Lodge An absolute stunner!

Prana Lodge is a unique small luxury beach lodge and wellness spa situated in a pristine forest alongside the spectacular Chintsa Bay, within minutes of rolling savannah and private game viewing.

My Husband and I had the pleasure of spending two nights at Prana Lodge in Chintsa. We were greeted by two staff members standing waiting for us to arrive. Once we stopped our vehicle they introduced themselves and took our car to park it as well as our luggage to put in our rooms. We were then welcomed with a  delicious refreshing drink.

We then went to the sauna, steamer, jacuzzi and then went to have a full body massage! It was amazing! Quiet and tranquil. It was so incredible that even my husband even fell asleep half way through.

They have 7 different suites. Ours was called the Citrine Suite. Each Suite is named after a different gem stone and they have the colour elements in the suite. Ours had yellow elements in the room. It was defiantly striking. Each suite has their own pool, and I absolutely loved relaxing outside there. The outside shower was exquisite as well.

Now for the food, one word… SUPERB! We were served a three course meal every night and had two options for the main dish. They decorated the plate beautifully, and served just enough to be able to get through the three course meal without feeling to full.

I have been telling people that this is a place they have to visit! Especially if you are needing a get away from your busy life and are needing time to relax and get your thoughts together. I cannot think of one thing to complain about! The staff always had smiles on their faces and were always eager to help when necessary. I would come back in a heartbeat.

Reviewed By L’toya and Neville Da Silva – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representatives

To view more about this property go to www.pranalodge.co.za

Posted on

13 Hotels you must see in 2018!

Be Grand Resort, Bohol -Philippines

BE Grand Resort in Bohol is strategically tucked away on the exclusive oasis of the blue waters of Panglao Island. Boasting diverse dining options, a blissfully wonderful spa experience, and within minutes from bountiful underwater paradise, step into a luxurious resort hideaway to reset, refocus, and relax.

InterContinental Hua Hin Resort- Thailand

InterContinental® Hua Hin Resort lends to Thailand’s premier seaside community with unrivaled style, sophistication and comfort. Combining Eastern and Western design heritage, the low-rise beach-front destination spans a prime stretch of white sandy beaches alongside sparkling gulf waters – a truly alluring setting.

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa- Kuwait

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait, is ideally located in the secluded area of Messilah situated along the shores of the Arabian Gulf, with easy access to Kuwait’s Central Business District, airport and major attractions.

Pondoro Game Lodge- South Africa

At Pondoro situated on the banks of the Olifants River in the exclusive Balule Private Reserve inside Greater Kruger National Park, you will discover the true way to experience the African Bush.

Hotel VIC on the Harbour- Hong Kong

Hotel VIC boasts panoramic views of the harbour. Located in the newly-fashionable district of North Point on Hong Kong Island, Hotel VIC boasts panoramic views of the harbour, and is steps away from an MTR station, ferry pier, and other public transport.

Hotel Le Bonne Entente- Canada

Le Bonne Entente Hotel has redefined the traditional luxury hotel market. In addition to it’s 160 rooms & suites, the hotel encompasses 11 acres of outstanding landscape surrounded by beautiful gardens. The Health and Beauty centre is located right by the beautiful outdoor pool and spa. The hotel also offers a luxury Shuttle service and exclusive access at the renowned Golf La Tempête.

Constance Ephelia Seychelles

Constance Ephélia Seychelles is a family-friendly resort with adapted accommodations. Besides the usual sport facilities, it proposes adventure activities and the Kids Club has themed programs run by the dedicated staff. Foodies will appreciate the wonderful diversity of cuisine at its five restaurants, each with its own culinary concept.

The Ritz-Carlton, Astana – Kazakhstan 

With a prime perch in the city’s gleaming Talan Towers, The Ritz-Carlton, Astana is one of the first luxury hotels in the capital of Kazakhstan. A welcoming retreat of exotic marble and elegant wood, the hotel features accommodations with spectacular views of the city’s modern skyline.

Royal Hideaway Sancti Petri -Spain

A leader in wellness, Royal Hideaway Sancti Petri Spa & Resort is located in Cadiz’s coastal paradise, along the spectacular La Barrosa. Its original and modern design with more than 35,000 m2 of gardens will make you feel like you are in a tropical destination without ever having to leave Spain.

Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort- Tanzania

Step into a world of luxury with unprecedented accommodations and service, a la carte all inclusive fine dining concept with respect to individual wishes, oceanfront swimming pool and our exclusive Inaya Spa.

Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & SPA -Morocco

This luxury 5-star resort and hotel in Essaouira, Morocco, evokes peace and calm in an oasis of French hospitality.
The sleek new Essaouira hotel in the heart of the Mogador resort overlooks the Atlantic ocean and Mogador golf course designed by Gary Player.Elegant décor by Didier Gomez blends contemporary French design with authentic Moroccan details like mashrabiya windows.

Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel-Egypt

Located in the centre of Hurghada`s touristic complex on the Red Sea in Egypt. Peace and privacy pervade this exclusive, 5-star deluxe beach hotel, located directly on the azure blue Red Sea shore. Let your mind rest in the green of landscaped gardens, the aqua-marine of the Red Sea, and the reds of the dramatic mountain ranges in the background.

Nermo Hotell- Norway

The Nermo Hotel, part of the Historic Hotels of Norway, is a family owned hotel situated 1,5km above the valley river with beautiful views, and 10 minutes north of the Olympic city of Lillehammer.

 

Posted on

Kolbe Hotel Rome; an enchanting experience from the city of Rome.

The city of Rome, Italy is an enchanting experience. Rome is a vibrant and decadent destination. It is filled with passionate Italian locals and rich history. Rome has played an important role as a political and religious capital during centuries of human civilization and should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Walking amongst the historic ruins of the Roman Forum is an experience that will leave you with goosebumps, not to mention a tour of the Colosseum where one can imagine gladiators having a brutal battle.

What made my Roman tourist experience truly special was the fact that our hotel was located right in the middle of all the important historic sites. Just a brief walk from Kolbe Hotel Rome brings you to the centre of it all.

“Surrounded by the magnificence of ancient Rome, only a few steps from the Circus Maximus and the Imperial Roman Forum, the building is located in an evocative and prestigious area right in the heart of the city.”

Kolbe Hotel Rome is a blend of modern and ancient décor; the furniture and finishing are modern and comfortable, yet the hallways are decorated with examples of ancient Roman clothing which is fascinating and really gives you an idea of what was worn back in the day

       

Upon entering the lobby guests are met with extremely friendly staff welcoming you to the hotel. The lobby leads into a contemporary bar lounge as well as the Garden Restaurant – Al Palatino. Guests can choose to sit inside or outside to enjoy a delicious gourmet meal. The garden outside is breathtaking.

“Keeping Mediterranean traditions alive, the courtyard reflects calmness, tranquility and peace. Guests can drink, dine or simply relax in this private sanctuary that is unique in all of Rome.”

The Kolbe Hotel Rome offers a variety of rooms. This includes double rooms, deluxe suites as well as family rooms. Rooms are generally decorated with maroon and light pastel colors and guests can enjoy bathroom amenities from Roberto Cavalli. One of the great features of the rooms are the big windows which open with a view of the surrounding area.

The hotel also offers great meeting and function facilities. During my stay at the Kolbe Hotel Rome, the hotel hosted a large corporate group with ease and professionalism.

Breakfast is served as an informal affair and leaves guests to help themselves to coffee and snacks from the buffet. This provides a relaxed environment for families or businessmen that want to grab a quick snack before heading to the next meeting.

Overall it was a wonderful stay that provided me quick access to the best that Rome has to offer.

Reviewed By Michelle Snyman

Brand Manager World Luxury Awards

To see more of this hotel click here

Posted on

Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre – Service Excellence Personified…

The first word I would like to use to describe this hotel, is surprising. And it’s not that the hotel doesn’t look great online, it’s why I chose it, but the pictures simply do not do it justice in comparison to what you actually experience when you enter the lobby, glistening with lighting and marble yet soft to the eye, immediately giving you a welcoming and warm feeling.

I arrived late in Dubai, and as such only reached the hotel at midnight. This didn’t stop the service from bustling to my attention; “Good evening Mrs. Evans and welcome, allow me to show you straight to your room.” Wow, no check-in, known by name, staff rushing around me to open elevators and take my bags. I’m already very impressed, and this was only the beginning

Junior Suite

I was treated to a Junior Suite on the 11th floor during my stay here, and apart from the fact that the view of Dubai is majestic from that high, the room itself was incredible. Large and spacious, one of the best beds and pillows I have ever had the pleasure of sleeping on during my travels, two televisions, a comfortable lounge and a generous bathroom filled with every amenity you would require.

View from my suite on the 11th floor

During my stay I was able to enjoy the bar on the 1st floor which has an extremely comfortable atmosphere. Every time you take a seat you are served some pub style snacks like popcorn, nuts and olives, and you can leisurely enjoy your drink while watching either sport, playing a game of pool or simply listening to the music. On Friday nights, Medley Restaurant holds what is known as the Art of Spice. An Indian cuisine delight created proudly by celebrity Chef Sweety Singh. Rows of serving pots line the buffet and you can sample as many as you want or can handle. I had a special dietary requirement yet this was no issue. Two delectable curries arrived at my table, served with fresh naan bread and all the sides required to make this a true Indian feast. I can see why the General Manager personally recommends this experience, as I will not soon forget it.

Soma Spa was by far the most relaxing experience on my journey. If you can, get a lady by the name of Chon to get her hands on you, I can guarantee you this will be worth every penny as her healing hands find every knot and aching spot on your body. The spa itself is beautifully laid out, tranquil and relaxing. The change rooms hold the sauna and steam room for use before your treatment, and after being sent into seventh heaven you are seated quietly to some ginger tea while you let the experience run over in your mind, relaxing you even further before returning to your day.

Soma Spa

All in all, a hotel is not only made up of walls and glitz and glamour. The true heart of a hotel, and what makes your stay memorable, is the hospitality of the staff that surround you. This hotel has it all. The glam, the rooms, the food, the spa, yet what stood out to me the most during my time here, was the staff. I have always said hospitality is a special sort of kindness, and it is something that you either have or don’t, it cannot be taught. Not a single member of their team made me feel that they were there because they had to be; they wanted to be. Their service excellence echoes through every corridor, radiates out of every meal served, in every passing greeting, in every room service delivered. And this single point alone is what made this one of the best and most enjoyable hotels I have had the pleasure of visiting.

This hotel will suit every travel requirement, so when passing through Dubai and looking for accommodation for one or seven nights, you will not be disappointed to make this your selection.

Book or view this hotel by clicking here

Reviewed By Joanna Evans

World Luxury Awards Marketing Communications Manager

 

Posted on

Hotel Papadopoli Venezia – MGallery by Sofitel

Travelling to the city of Venice in Italy is an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. I suggest taking a private water taxi from the airport and entering the hotel via the water canals with style.  If you are lucky enough to enter Venice just before sunset, the experience will be even more romantic. Imagine sailing into a city filled with beautiful historic buildings, arched staircases and the suns’ reflection on the water streets. The water taxi takes you directly to the hotel entrance and kicks off your love affair with the city of Venice forever.

Arriving at Hotel Papadopoli Venezia – MGallery by Sofitel is an exciting experience. Once you enter the lobby of the hotel the glamour and elegance of this intimate boutique hotel is overwhelming. Close to the reception desk is a display case fill with shoes and handbags decorated with Swarovski crystals. The lounge is decorated with vintage furniture that includes throne chairs, carved giltwood tables and mirror frames, 18th century Italian style sofas as well as breathtaking chandeliers that provide just enough light to feel cozy and relaxed.

 

 

The stairway to the GIARDINO D’INVERNO (Winter Garden) restaurant is framed by two fashion mannequins, each dressed in a ball gown skirt and colorful ladies jacket. One soon discovers that the skirts actually consist of a tree and flower decoration. The beautiful artistry of this hotel is mesmerizing and the use of pastel colors is calming and poetic. Once you reach the Winter Garden one is transported to a scene from the magical Shakespearean play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

The hotel has 96 rooms and suites that are finished with furnishings reflecting the elegance and splendor of the 18th century, and views of the Tolentini Canal and Papadopoli Gardens. Each of the rooms are themed and I was fortunate to be accommodated in the Marco Polo room.

One of the special qualities of Hotel Papadopoli Venezia is the spectacular view the rooms provide.  I would suggest starting your day with breakfast on your balcony and a wonderful view of the city rooftops.

The location of the hotel is great and within walking distance of most of the tourist attractions. It is a real treat to explore the busy allies of Venice and stumble upon unique gift shops and restaurants. If you have a lot of luggage the hotel will organize you a city porter in no time to assist you with the heavy load.

Overall, I can recommend Hotel Papadopoli Venezia to any traveller visiting Venice. Personally, the comfortable stay and attentive service contributed to a wonderful experience and many cherished memories.

Hotel Reviewed by Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager of World Luxury Hotel Awards.

To view this hotel click here

To phone +39 041 710400

 

Posted on

Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage

Situated in the heart of medieval Brugges, rich in history and gastronomy, Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage, is the exquisite setting for your romantic getaways and for all your special celebrations in life.

Photo with Nagi, one of the amazing employees at Hotel Heritage.

Upon arrival at Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage, we were warmly welcomed and checked in by Jessie who showed us to our room. Our room was absolutely stunning and elegantly decorated with exquisite attention to detail. The hand written welcome note from Johan and Isabelle really made us feel welcomed.

Our beautifully decorated room.

The Hotel’s location is in the heart of Brugges, close to the market square and the city’s many canals, this is ideal for sightseeing, museums, chocolate shops and theatres.

Exploring the market and canals.

Each morning we had a full buffet champagne breakfast, which was served in their beautiful dining area. The food was absolutely divine and local Belgian waffles were definitely a highlight.

We were personally greeted by owners Johan and Isabella and had lovely chats with them. All the staff are incredibly friendly, attentive and provided the highest level of service.

A glass of red wine and snacks at Bar le Magnum in such a beautiful setting truly relax’s you before dinner at Le Mystique Restaurant. This was without a doubt the best 5 course meal I have ever experienced. Chef Gregory Slembrouck is a true master in the kitchen and this is one meal I will never forget. Only the finest seasonal ingredients are used and combined with World class flavours to create these wonderful gourmet delights.

[wds id=”7″]

Johan and Isabelle are true visonaries in creating the perfect boutique hotel.
Rich in history, charming and absolutely magnificent would be the best way to describe my stay at Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage. I do hope to return one day in the near future.

To view more click here

To send a booking inquiry – info@hotel-heritage.com

Reviewed By Tanique Echardt- Executive Manager World Luxury Hotel Awards

 

Posted on

Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese – Rome – Italy

Arriving at Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese, guests are welcomed to a cozy lobby styled with classic as well as contemporary décor. A beautiful crystal chandelier hangs from the roof, while the colorful avant-garde painting against the wall and a vintage Vespa scooter parked next to the staircase sets the scene. The walls of the hotel are lined with 1960’s black and white portraits of films stars. Guests are transported back the glamorous vintage era of La Dolce Vita, a famous Italian film that translates into “the good life”.

images of hotel

This boutique hotel features 81 luxury rooms, conference as well as meeting space. The hotel also features the La Terrasse Cuisine & Lounge that provides a breathtaking rooftop view over the city of Rome. It is no surprise that Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese was voted as the 2017 global winner in the category, Luxury Rooftop View Hotel, during the 2017 World Luxury Hotel Awards.

view from rooftop

Guests can enjoy a Mediterranean lunch or gourmet dinner at the award-winning restaurant or sip a cocktail during sunset while enjoying the spectacular view of the capital.

bar

The hotel is located close to the famous Spanish steps and is only a 15-minute taxi ride from tourist attractions like the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum and the Borghese Gallery. The staff are incredibly helpful and the concierge team comes highly recommended to assist you in organizing a perfect day out.

room

The rooms are comfortable and offer Sofitel MyBed® bedding, marble bathrooms, luxury bathrobes, WIFI and 24-hour room service. One of the features that stood out in the room was a portable telephone that ensures connectivity as well as a mobile network to foreign travelers.

staircase into the hotel lobby

Guests can look forward to a comfortable and stylish stay at Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese.

Hotel Reviewed by Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager of World Luxury Hotel Awards.

To view this hotel click here

To phone +39 06478021

Posted on

The NH Doelen Amsterdam, a historical masterpiece…

Resting upon the banks of the river Amstel this 5 star hotel is situated in a 17th century monument and is the oldest hotel in Amsterdam.

From the moment we arrived at Amsterdam Train station and were picked up by our luxury transfer, we were treated like royalty. When we arrived at the hotel the staff had already checked us in and immediately showed us to our room. We were treated to some cold meats and local Dutch Liquor, which was very welcome after our long trip. The hotel was absolutely stunning; modern yet still retaining its historic beauty.  Our room was spacious, light and had beautiful views over the canal. One could definitely spend some time simply staring out your window. The bathroom was amazing with a large rainfall shower, which I could have easily spent hours in.

The Buffet breakfast was absolutely divine; from the local Dutch poffertjies, to fluffy omelettes, we had a wide variety of delicious breakfast options.

In the evenings we headed down to the cocktail bar and enjoyed a glass of red wine with cheese and other snacks. The area is comfortable and beautifully decorated to make you feel relaxed and at home.

The Staff at the NH Doelen were absolutely fantastic; incredibly friendly and accommodating. We were given suggestions on where to eat and experience local cuisine, tours were organized for us as well as any transfers we required. I was even given a gift bag filled with NH Doelen goodies.

[wds id=”6″]

Three days went by way to quickly at the beautiful NH Doelen Hotel and I would jump on a plane tomorrow to return for my second visit.

Review By Tanique Echardt – Executive Manager

To book this hotel go to their website: click here

Or email them: here

To view more reviews click here

 

Posted on

InterContinental Davos – A Winter Wonderland Experience

The World Luxury Hotel Awards was privileged to experience this phenomenal hotel in December 2017 after the gala ceremony on 2 December in St. Moritz, where it was awarded two global wins for Luxury Architecture Design Hotel and Luxury Hotel & Conference Centre. And it’s not hard to see why. Nestled amongst the majestic Swiss Alps and surrounded by snowy pine trees, this supremely designed hotel offers an experience for every traveler, whether it be a family or romantic ski holiday, or a business trip for a stay or conference.

The view from the rooms is incredible, overlooking Davos and the mountains, and in the winter months you even have your own personal supply of snow on your balcony, about a meter deep! This only adds to the blissful magic of being in a winter wonderland.

One of the most satisfying benefits of the hotel is the complimentary shuttle service in and out of Davos, for which we never had to wait longer than 5 minutes, if at all. Davos itself is a beautiful town filled with pubs and restaurants to discover and there is something wonderful about exploring these while walking along white roads, snow crunching below your feet, adding the special treat of being so close to Christmas time where the trees you walk past are naturally covered in snow. But if it gets too cold for you, a quick call to the hotel and the shuttle will be right there to fetch you.

The breakfast buffet was also a tremendous surprise, apart from the already large selection of food available, there was an entire Asian display on offer complete with a wide variety of Asian style foods, enough to satisfy all needs and dietary requirements. A very interesting taste sensation to add to breakfast.

The rooms are large, comfortable, clean and very luxurious with modern and beautiful bathrooms which are well worth noting. We especially enjoyed the larger than normal bath tubs and the delightful rain shower experience.

As one would expect from a hotel of this stature, all the staff from check in to the Concierge to housekeeping to breakfast were incredibly helpful and hospitable. No query went unattended and the staff were knowledgeable on every point we required assistance with. No surprise considering this hotel hosts the World Economic Forum annually.

[wds id=”5″]

And if all of the above is not enough to convince you, just remember that the most beautiful way to reach this hotel is via train through the Swiss Alps… more than enough to entice a visit!

To book this breathtaking Hotel follow the details below.

website – click here

email- InterContinental.Davos@ihg.com

Posted on

The Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection hotel

The Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection hotel, is the legendary Parisian Art deco jewel located just a few steps away from the Champs-Elysées and Avenue Montaigne.

Upon arrival at the elegant and stunning Prince De Galles Hotel, we were immediately warmly greeted and checked in within minutes. We were also shown to our room where a bottle of champagne, fruit and personal note from the General Manager awaited us. Our suite was elegant with a king sized bed, lounge area and the most beautiful bathroom I have ever seen.

 

The breakfast buffet was an experience in itself. A wide spread selection from fruits, gluten free bread and health juices to Poached eggs, bacon and even sushi. It was an absolute delight for our tastebuds.

The hotel bar Les Heures was also a wonderful experience, so beautifully decorated, one can simply marvel at the beauty of it all while sipping on your cocktail.

Being a fitness queen the Prince De Galles Fitness area and Gym was a definite highlight. With top class equipment and a spacious beautifully decorated area, the early morning training was a dream come true.

The hotel staff were incredibly attentive and friendly. They effortlessly fulfill your requests in a timely and friendly manner, including organizing us tickets to a World Premier at the Rex Theatre.

The Prince De Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel was everything I imagined and more.

Review By Tanique Echardt – Executive Manager

To book this hotel go to their website: click here

Or email them: here

To view more reviews click here