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The Privilege Hotel Ezra Beach Club- Koh Samui – an unforgettable experience…

My husband and I were so privileged to enjoy a 3-night stay at this property on our honeymoon in July 2019. When we arrived at Koh Samui Airport, there was a complimentary air-conditioned hotel pick-up transport service waiting for us at the arrivals section. The location is further enhanced by a close proximity to pharmacies, convenience stores, markets etc, as well as scooter-rentals available on-site.

Upon arriving at the hotel, they already started spoiling us with a refreshing coconut welcome drink to cool down whilst being friendly greeted by all the staff as if we were part of the family. They offer several types of accommodation, from pool access rooms, sea view villas, penthouse suites, to a luxury presidential suite and many more. For two nights we stayed in a pool access room and the last night we enjoyed staying in the presidential suite. They spoiled us with a beautiful towel and rose petal representation in our room, seeing that is was our honeymoon.

The pool access room was conveniently located only meters from the main 40-meter swimming pool, only separated by some of the most comfortable reclining chairs. The pool has spectacular views of the beach and boasts its own pool bar that certainly creates a unique beach club experience! Apart from enjoying the swimming pool, going for a spa treatment, sipping cocktails at the pool bar or defeating your partner with a game of ping pong, the beach is also just a few steps down from the pool area where you can relax amongst the surrounding tropical palm trees. Large inflatable pool toys are left in the pool for guests to enjoy and children to play with

Our night in the presidential suite, was certainly the best night of our stay. The room boasted a glass bathroom, tasteful art and a very large and comfortable couch. The owner hosted a pool party that included cocktails and an exciting fire dance on the beach, which was great fun! After that, we enjoyed the Jacuzzi bathtub on the deck of our suite, with the most beautiful views over the ocean and surrounding islands, with a glass of champagne in hand. It was so special and romantic.

This was the best 3 days of our Honeymoon in Thailand! We would definitely recommend the Privilege Hotel Ezra Beach Club for anyone when travelling to Koh Samui.

Reviewed By World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative Ms. Jana Matthee

To book a stay at this incredible hotel follow the link: www.theprivilegehotels.com

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Fun for the entire family at Conrad Bali…

On a recent trip to Bali we were very privileged to have the opportunity to spend a night at the luxurious Conrad Bali. On arrival we were met by the charming General Manager Andreas Justkowiak, known as Andi to his friends. After checking in we were escorted to our newly rejuvenated premier rooms, which were beautifully appointed with every room having a sea view.

This luxury beachfront resort can be found only 12.2km from the Ngurah Rai International Airport. The Conrad is a tropical beach resort with seven hectares of lush green gardens and 350 meters of sandy beach. After a quick swim in the sea we rinsed ourselves off in the huge swimming pool which surrounds the hotel. If you are lucky enough to get a ground floor room, you will have direct access to the pool from your balcony. It was now time for lunch, which was served to us at the pool-side by a smiling and friendly waiter. The menu from the Azure Bar and Restaurant is substantial and caterers for all dietary requirements.

Conrad Bali has 358 guest rooms all with panoramic views of the ocean, pools and gardens. The exclusive Conrad Suites are located in a private wing, offering privacy and personalised service. This tropical paradise offers many tempting dining options, plenty of meeting space for all occasions, and offers leisure facilities including the state-of-the-art Jiwa Spa.

We were very lucky to have been shown around the hotel by the Assitant Director of Sales, Harry Purnama, who recommended we try the Suku Japanese Restaurant for dinner. We were very impressed by the atmosphere, service and a delicious menu which includes some very good sushi.

On our tour Harry showed us the unique “Infinity”, a majestic glass structure and one of Bali’s largest modern beachfront wedding venues. There was actually a wedding happening at the time of our visit.

We truly enjoyed our stay at this magnificent hotel even if it was just for one night.

I can definitely recommend the Conrad Bali – one of Bali’s finest hotels.

Reviewed By Michael Hunter Smith – World Luxury Hotel Awards Marketing Director

To book click the link below

www.conradbali.com

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Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort – A luxurious Resort for the entire family …

When staying at the Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort, you can be sure that you won’t want to leave the resort for the duration of your entire stay.. This resort offers everything you need and features facilities for the whole family to enjoy as well as being a very romantic experience. We stayed at the resort in November 2018 for unfortunately only 1 night, which was certainly not enough!

Upon arrival at the resort, we already felt at home when being friendly welcomed by the dedicated staff members, who escorted us through the beautiful, modern hotel lobby to the check-in area. While we enjoyed a refreshing welcome drink, we were immediately asked if we would prefer a late check out the next day which was the best decision we made.

Our room offered modern designs and facilities, the best part being the privilege to stay in a room whose balcony walks out straight into the pool that connects to the main pool.

View from room

This pool features their outdoor L’ oh pool bar area in the middle of the pool with the pool on one side and amphitheater style seating on the other, where you can enjoy drinks, pizzas, ice creams etc.

L’ oh pool bar

In addition to this pool bar, you can enjoy drinks and meals at their other restaurants such as Cucina, which boasts an Italian and Mediterranean setting; Kwee Zeen, with more of an Asian style or Toya Beach Bar and Grill, featuring a more relaxed seaside lounge area with a pool.

Cucina Restaurant

At the turn down night service we received a beautiful tea set with tasty tea to unwind before we went to bed.

The So Spa at Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua comes highly recommended with its wide variety of relaxing treatments, the ornamental pool that overflows to the spa’s sunlit exterior and the beautiful dramatic architecture. Both staying and outside guests are welcome to make use of the spa as well as the So fit gym right next to it. If you are staying at the hotel, you can also benefit from enjoying a treatment in their open Balinese ‘bale’ gazebo on the resort’s beachfront or in the comfort of your own room, with the offer of treatments for children too.

So Spa

We believe the resort is the perfect family destination, because of their exciting kids’ club and pool where your children will be entertained for the duration of the day by professional, well trained staff members, giving mom and dad time to relax and spend some quality time together.

Kids Club Pool

In addition to the beautiful pools at the resort, they also have their own private beach where you can enjoy many beach and water sport activities.

Guests staying at Luxury Room Club Millésime, Suites and Villas receive a wide variety of benefits with the Club Millésime, which includes exclusive access to the Club Millésime lounge and club pool, your own personal butler, late checkout, daily complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea and a wide variety of snacks, complimentary breakfast and much more.

Our Wonderful Butler

Afternoon Tea

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, family holiday or even a business destination for your visit to Nusa Dua, look no further than Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort, as this property is perfect to suit all your needs.

World Luxury Hotel  Awards representatives Ms Jana Vos and Ms Lindi Smuts stayed here in November 2018

To book your next holiday here click on the link below

sofitel.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-9078-sofitel-bali-nusa-dua-beach-resort

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A spectacular wellness experience at The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa…

Arriving at The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is like being transported to another world. As our driver stopped at the entrance we were immediately warmly greeted by the staff and a large gong was rung to announce our arrival.

The lobby and reception area is truly beautiful with an open air layout, beautiful chandelier and contemporary décor. We were warmly greeted by Ninta who helped us with our check in. She also gave us a refreshing drink which helps with your metabolism and overall wellbeing.

Since we arrived early for check in we were escorted by our butler Merdita to Sapphire Bar and offered a complimentary cocktail and some snacks, what a surprise and absolute treat especially after a long car journey.

After enjoying our cocktails and relaxing Merdita escorted us to our rooms while also showing us around the Resort and giving us any information we needed. Walking through the resort we were struck by how beautiful the entire property is. The crystal blue lagoon pools, the ocean, lush gardens and swaying palm trees all add to the beauty and magic of the resort.. We stayed in a Deluxe Lagoon View Room with a private balcony and even a view of the ocean in the background. The room was modern and contemporary with beautiful designs and an overall relaxed feeling. The bathroom was stunning and elegant with a huge bath and shower.  We were also welcomed with a personal note, a beautiful Luxury Collection teddy and some delectable snacks. As soon as we had settled in the room we headed to one of the lagoon pools to relax with a signature cocktail and snacks. What a way to start a stay!

Dinner at the Arwana Restaurant was a real treat with the option to sit inside or on the beach watching the waves and sunset. The food was sublime with the freshest seafood and salads available. I must say the Chicken Ceaser Salad here is the best I have ever experienced while travelling.

Being a fitness fanatic the Lagoon Fitness Centre was absolute heaven for me. The layout of the gym, the equipment and the staff were all world class. While running on a treadmill you face one of the Lagoon pools with a fountain. What more does one need to start off a day in paradise! There are also showers, a sauna and steam room available. The Spa is right next to the gym and offers a range of treatments. This is one of the best Fitness Centres I have experienced at a hotel.

We also had the opportunity to take part in the Yoga Class which is held twice a week. This was a new experience for me and very enjoyable. It is so relaxing to start your day off this way.

Breakfast at Banyubiru was an experience in itself. I have never experienced such variety at a buffet with a stunning setup and flow to it. The food was out of this world and every morning we had an absolute feast!

The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle to Bali Collection, which is an open air mall for guests to go and shop. This was a fantastic experience and the best shopping of my entire trip was done here. After a day of shopping you can return to the hotel and relax at the beach, one of the lagoon pools or pop into the shop for a delicious ice cream to cool off.

With its perfect location, impeccable service, range of activities and everything you need at your fingertips, The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is truly a magical paradise and world on its own.

Three days here and you leave relaxed, invigorated and enriched! Thank you to everyone at The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa for an unforgettable stay.

Reviewed By Tanique Echardt- World Luxury Hotel Awards Executive Manager

To book this amazing property or look for more information click the website link below

Website

 

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2018 World Luxury Hotel Awards Winners Announced

10th November 2018, AYANA Resort & Spa, Bali, Indonesia was the venue of the prestigious black-tie event celebrating the 12th anniversary of the World Luxury Hotel Awards. Over 360 guests flew in from around the world to attend the event, which awarded the world’s finest hotels for their luxury offerings and exceptional service delivery.

Set across 90-hectares along Jimbaran’s golden mile, AYANA Resort and Spa, BALI, is a world-class destination resort. As the property approaches its 22nd birthday this November, the privately-owned resort holds more fame than ever. AYANA is recognized for prolific sunset and ocean views, as well as offering a choice of five-star accommodation and facilities, coupled with the genuinely warm Balinese hospitality that has put AYANA on the map. Over the years, AYANA has received many top-shelf accolades including Luxury Honeymoon Resort Global Winner for the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2017.

Participants from over 100 countries sipped on cocktails after being welcomed on the red carpet. During the cocktail’s guests enjoyed Jegog instrumental background music followed by Okokan and Kecak dancing. Jegog is a form of gamelan music indigenous to Bali, played on instruments made from bamboo, and the Kecak Dance is a form of Balinese Hindu dance and music drama that was developed in the 1930s, but that was not all as the guests where welcomed to the gala dinner by the Panyembrama Dance, which is a traditional Balinese welcome dance followed by Gus Teja who is a maestro of the flute.

After Prof. Dr. I Gede Pitana Msc. delivered his keynote speech, the incredibly entertaining Masters of Ceremonies, twins Maria and Elizabeth Rahajeng, who are TV hosts for E! News Asia guided the audience through a dazzling awards ceremony where awards were presented to luxury hotels and resorts in over 100 categories on a Country, Regional, Continent and Global basis. Special congratulations go to the inspirational Gaia Retreat & Spa, who received the 2018 Global Hotel of the Year Award. Founded in 2005, Gregg Cave, Ruth Kalnin, Olivia Newton-John and Warwick Evans, affectionately known as G.R.O.W, set out as a close-knit team to realise a shared dream, offering the highest of standards and service excellence, true to the World Luxury Hotel Awards overall winner criteria. Gregg Cave, Co-Owner and General Manager of Gaia Retreat & Spa proudly collected the award on stage.

Gaia Retreat & Spa- Australia

Mr Gregg Cave

The prestigious Chairman’s Award is the decision of the Owner and CEO of World Luxury Hotel Awards, Brandon Lourens. This year Imrhim Inad, Director of Sales, attended the ceremony and was privileged enough to collect the award on behalf of the Velaa Private Island Resort in Maldives. This boutique private hideaway can only be described as “beyond luxury”.

Mr Imrhim Inad of Velaa Private Island with France 24 representatives Odile Franc and Vishmi Congreve and Ceo Of WLHA Mr Brandon Lourens, Executive Manager Ms Tanique Echardt and Ms Michelle Snayman Brand and Event coordinator for the World Luxury Awards Brand.

Further Global awards went to Vacala Bay Resort in Fiji who received both Luxury Contemporary Villa and Eco/Green Villa Award; Lamaraz Arts Hotel in Algeria received the Luxury New Hotel Award; Valamar All you can Holiday in Croatia received Luxury Hotel Group Award; Tintswalo Atlantic in South Africa received Luxury Beach Lodge Award and Okinawa Spa Resort EXES in Japan received Luxury Honeymoon Hotel Award just to mention a few.
The much sort after World Luxury Hotel Awards trophy was presented to winners on stage. Thereafter, the proud winners were given an opportunity for one-on-one personalised video interviews to speak about their achievement with the media.

Okinawa Spa Resort EXES in Japan

There was not a dull moment as the diners were spoiled by AYANA Resorts Executive Chef, Patrick Callarec and his team, who wowed guests with Balinese inspired 6-course meal. The food was elegantly plated and paired with the finest of wines supplied by Bali Indah and Sababay. The room was in awe as the incredibly plated food was served all at once to the entire ballroom. The fact that the food was on par with any fine dining restaurant made it even more impressive.

UNIQUE Rooftop Bar & Restaurant was the venue for the after party where guests danced to the sounds of Martin Denev, the resident DJ from Rock Bar and were entertained by Sasha on vocals.

“We congratulate all our winners for the 2018 Award Year, who through their tireless efforts and endless passion to elevate their guests experience, have received this honour tonight. True luxury is not easily attained, it takes a team of highly efficient and dedicated staff willing to go the extra mile and stop at nothing to ensure that every guest feels cared for and no challenged not solved. This is the definition of luxury, this is what makes the winners shine at the World Luxury Hotel Awards event”. Says, Michael Hunter-Smith, Group Marketing Director for the World Luxury Hotel Awards.

“The 2019 World Luxury Hotel Awards will take place on Saturday, 12th October 2019 at Arctic Circle, Finland. The event will be hosted by Arctic TreeHouse Hotel and the gala venue SantaPark is an ideal location just before Christmas in the home town of Santa Claus. The magical Finnish Lapland is a bucket list experience and attendees can look forward to a winter wonderland, beautiful natural landscape wilderness, reindeer safaris, the phenomenon of the Northern lights, and of course Santa Claus” said Michael,“Applications to host the event in 2020 are now officially open”.

An event of this calibre would not be possible without our much-cherished sponsors France 24, Copenhagen Traveller, Caviar Spoon, Destination Golf, Santé Magazine, Singapore Brides and Spa & Wellness International who we thank for their continued support over the years. Thanks, is also extended to Bali Indah Beverindo, Captain Morgan, Coca Cola, Dewata Primi Lestari, Dolomia, Two Island Wine, Heineken Light, Kita Satu Bali, Strongbow, Global Seafood, Frizzante, Classic Fine Foods, Valrhona, Revolt and ABV Media Asia who were the sponsors here in Bali.

Please see our video of this prestigious event.

Everyone who attended the event was blown away by the professionalism of every person who works at AYANA Resort & Spa. Congratulations!

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Escape to the heart of Dubai…

Nassima Royal Hotel is located in the heart of Dubai, very close to many of Dubai’s top attractions. There are also many shops and restaurants within walking distance, including the Dubai Metro.

What an unforgettable stay, the architecture of the hotel is beautiful, and the service was exceptional throughout our stay.

We stayed in two executive rooms on the 45th floor which had amazing views of Dubai. The rooms were spacious, each had a big bath overlooking Dubai. The amenities in the room were great and they provided the most comfortable bath robes and towels.

The swimming pool was one of the best I’ve ever seen, it overlooks the Persian Gulf and many high-rise buildings. The pool bar had the most delicious cocktails and pizzas and the lounge chairs were very comfortable.

There were numerous restaurants and bars in the hotel which had a big variety of food. The breakfast was delicious, the chef made the best eggs benedict I’ve ever had. The staff were friendly and gave world class service.

The concierge staff were very knowledgeable and assisted us with booking our restaurants and excursions. For our transportation they offered us their hotel car which was so comfortable and stylish.

This hotel is definitely on my list of top hotels in Dubai and is a must visit hotel when in the city. Truly great hospitality.

Reviewed By Kayla Lourens- World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To book follow the link below

nassimaroyalhotel.com

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Tulia Zanzibar, a piece of heaven …

We arrived at this amazing resort on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. We were warmly welcomed by the amazing staff who were ready to assist us with smiles on their faces.

 

We were checked into the lovely Deluxe Garden Bungalow which with its stone walls and thatch roof really gave the feel of being away from reality. The beds where so comfortable and the décor was stunning. The room opens up onto the beautifully designed garden where you can hear the birds singing in the morning. Such an amazing way to wake up in this paradise.

The resort stay included a wonderful 1 hour massage for both of us and a complimentary bottle of wine which was a fantastic start to our stay.

Tulia Zanzibar is an all-inclusive resort and we were treated to a true dining experience. Fresh Fish and local produce is sourced daily which means the menu is never boring and constantly changing. For breakfast we enjoyed the local fruit spreads and freshly baked produce. We even got to enjoy our breakfast on the beautiful private beach. The flavours of the food where exquisite and compliments to the amazing restaurant staff and chefs who made this experience perfect.

We really enjoyed the local activities at the resort especially the lovely pool bar and the complimentary kayaks that we used to explore the serene blue ocean.

Leaving this beautiful piece of paradise was so sad but we left feeling refreshed and like cherished family of the team. A special thank you to the staff and the owners of this stunning resort, we hope to return again someday soon.

If I have to use one word to describe Tulia it would have to be “perfection”.

To book this stunning resort go to www.tuliazanzibar.com

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Relaxation and wonderful Thai hospitality at the Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas…

The Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas is situated in the centre of the busy town of Patong in Phuket. The hotel is within walking distance of the beach,shops and restaurants.

We received a Thai purple drink and a filled pastry with purple icing on top as a welcome treat and a cold towel to fight off the heat. We felt very welcome and all the staff were friendly.

We stayed two nights in a one-bedroom pool villa, which was gorgeous! A beautiful bath and a big lounge area. Our private splash pool was so great, and the pool chair was very comfortable.

There is a high tea lounge for VIP guests which offers complimentary beverages and snacks every day from 11:00am to 17:00pm which was delicious.

The swimming pool was heated and there were many poolside chairs available.  Most of the ground floor pool facing rooms are adjacent to the swimming pool so guests can just jump in from their terrace. The pool bar had daily specials on their cocktails which guests can enjoy on the chairs inside the pool.

The buffet breakfast was delicious, there was an Asian corner as well as an assortment of Indian and western food.

There was even sushi for breakfast and also a stand where you could make your own iced coffee or chocolate milk which was great.

Our entire stay including the amazing staff made our trip unforgettable. I would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone who plans on visiting Phuket.

To book this magnificent property or get more details follow the link below

http://grandmercurephuketpatong.com

 

Reviewed by Kayla Lourens – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

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Hotel TWENTY EIGHT brings innovation, comfort and fun to the luxury hotel concept.

 As you enter the hotel lobby you are met with bright colours, contemporary art and elegant décor . The hotel staff dress in funky but relaxed uniforms that compliment the hotels unique style.

The lobby, lounge, bar and reception are open 24-hours a day and the lobby is perfect for meeting other travellers over a drink, or opening your laptop and catching up on work. This is a hip and happening space with flair.

Located on 260 Stadionplein, Oud Zuid of Amsterdam. The metro station is located 300 meters from the hotel and the tram is located just opposite the hotel. This makes site seeing in Amsterdam a breeze, as all the major tourist attractions like Museum Square, Vondelpark and the City Centre are merely a short tram ride away.

The hotel offers comfortable design apartments combined with the service and facilities of a luxury hotel. All the apartments have a fully equipped kitchen, a living room with a spacious seating area and a luxurious bathroom equipped with a rain shower. The rooms also feature climate control, a flat-screen TV and high-speed WiFi. The rooms are beautifully decorated with great attention to detail and a touch of Dutch heritage.

The property also offers an on-site restaurant, a sauna and fitness facilities as well as underground parking.

The level of service, apartments and hotel facilities make Hotel TWENTY EIGHT the perfect choice for business and leisure guests, both for short and long term stays.

Guests have the option to cook in their own apartment as well as make use of the self-service laundry room. This is exceptionally helpful for travellers that have been on the road for a while and want to relax and recuperate with privacy. Hotel TWENTY EIGHT feels like your home away from home.

When you do feel like going out for a meal the on site restaurant the Het Amsterdamse Proeflokaal is a must. This modern restaurant offers delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner for the entire family. Walking through the restaurant doors, the walls are decorated with vintage portraits of previous Olympic Games.

The staff are friendly, attentive and extremely helpful with anything that guests require. This is extremely helpful for foreigners visiting Amsterdam for the first time.

Hotel TWENTY EIGHT made my trip to Amsterdam exceptional and I would recommend this property to any traveller.

To book this hotel click here www.twentyeight.nl

Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager of Word Luxury Hotel Awards

Missing Amsterdam already!

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Wildlife and luxury create harmony at the 57 Waterberg Lodge

What a wonderful surprise…after our long drive, we were greeted at the gate by our very own game-ranger with ice-cold champagne, served in silver goblets. The calm of the bush immediately settled over me as we made our way over the rocky terrain of the Waterberg Mountains to the lodge. An African welcome song and a glass of sherry completed our warm welcome upon arrival at the main lodge.

Beautifully furnished rooms, crisp white linen, snug fires and our own outdoor Jacuzzi overlooking the bush filled my soul with thankfulness.

The game drives were informative and well worth the effort as we saw herds of elephant complete with little ones. The reserve is known for its conservation of white rhinos, of which we had a view close-up and personal.

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The superb 3-course dinner and service was truly of world-class standard and accompanied by excellent vintages. I could return just for that!

It was with a lingering sense of loss but a conviction that I will return one day that we left this piece of heaven.

 

Reviewed By Marna Lourens – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To book this wildlife experience follow the link below

Click Here