Tag: Luxury Hotels

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The Houghton Hotel, Where Art, Nature & Luxury Meet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Daniella Lourens.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taarab Restaurant

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Adele Hamman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative, Kayla Robertson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative, Deborah Robertson

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

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

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

Champagne on Arrival
Shop

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

With the Chef, Angelo

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

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

Snow Room
Event Sauna
Wine Sauna

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

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

Wall of Love

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

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

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Linda Cooper.

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

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The Amala Boutique Retreat – A Private Wellness Sanctuary in the Heart of Seminyak

During our recent visit to Bali, we spent two nights at The Amala Boutique Retreat, staying in a 2-bedroom Pool Estate with three friends. From the moment we arrived, everything felt comfortable and serene, with attentive, thoughtful service at every turn— making The Amala a standout boutique retreat in a prime Seminyak location.

The villa itself was beautifully designed and offered complete privacy, creating a peaceful escape from the bustle of Seminyak. Our private pool quickly became the heart of our stay, providing the perfect setting to relax during the day. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a stunning welcome display on our bed—an elephant crafted from towels with cut-out hearts—which was such a thoughtful touch.

The villa included a semi-outdoor bathroom, giving the feeling of being close to nature while showering. It was equipped with all the necessary amenities, and the addition of a black towel for makeup removal was a small but thoughtful touch that showed attention to detail. The lounge area in our villa was incredibly comfortable, and with the rainy weather during our stay, it became the perfect spot to relax undercover, read a book, or simply listen to the rain while staying dry and cozy.

The resort’s lush gardens and bamboo-lined paths add to its serene atmosphere, giving the property a calm, private feel despite being centrally located. Eka, the resort manager, personally showed us around the property, ensuring we felt welcome and familiar with all the amenities. Being in Bali, there were quite a few mosquitoes, but the villa was well-prepared. Our bed had a mosquito net, mosquito repellent was provided, and each evening the staff placed a burner to ward off mosquitoes, making our stay comfortable and uninterrupted.

Daily a la carte breakfast was included and served either at Bamboo Restaurant or in the privacy of the villa at no additional charge. We particularly enjoyed the strawberry pancakes, fresh melon juice, and lattes, while the avocado toast was both delicious and healthy. A charming touch each morning was the “word of the day” on our place setting—a different Indonesian word with its meaning—which added a sweet and thoughtful cultural element to our breakfasts.

The Amala also offers a complimentary shuttle service within Seminyak, allowing easy access to nearby beaches, shops, and restaurants. In addition, they also arranged a complimentary airport transfer for us which made our arrival and departure stress-free.

If you’re after some relaxation, TULA Wellness at The Amala is a little slice of heaven. From soothing spa treatments—including sound healing—to daily yoga classes and a gym, there’s something to refresh both body and mind. I also loved the cooking classes and private dining options, which added a thoughtful, immersive touch to the stay.

The resort also features a gift shop, offering a wide selection of soaps, scents, and jewellery—perfect for picking up something thoughtful for a loved one or a special keepsake to take home.

The service at The Amala was exceptional and genuinely attentive. When one of my friends became unwell, the staff went out of their way to provide comfort, delivering ginger tea and light snacks daily. This level of personal care made a lasting impression. A special mention to Egi from Front Office, who was professional, friendly, and always willing to assist with information and recommendations. Upon departure, we were presented with a lovely gift, a thoughtful way to conclude our stay.

The Amala Boutique Retreat is a perfect pick for travellers looking for a peaceful, wellness-focused getaway that combines luxury with comfort and convenience.

Our stay at The Amala was relaxing, private, and restorative, and it’s a property I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a boutique wellness retreat in Bali.

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative, Kayla Robertson

To book your stay at The Amala, visit their website: www.theamala.com

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Kata Rocks – A Slice of Modern Luxury in Phuket

From the moment you arrive at Kata Rocks, it’s clear this isn’t just another beachfront resort—it’s a luxury experience designed for those who appreciate privacy, style, and breathtaking views.

Tucked into the hillside between Kata and Kata Noi beaches, Kata Rocks offers a perfect balance of seclusion and access. The villas are stunning—each with its own private infinity pool that overlooks the Andaman Sea. Watching the sunset from the pool, drink in hand, feels like a dream.

Our one-bedroom villa was impeccably designed—sleek, spacious, and filled with natural light. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors opened to reveal an expansive terrace and a private infinity pool with panoramic ocean views. The interiors struck a perfect balance between high-tech convenience and minimalist elegance, creating a tranquil and indulgent retreat. One of our favorite features was the automatic blinds, which opened at the push of a button to reveal the most breathtaking ocean views—a perfect way to start each morning.

We also appreciated the thoughtful practical touches, like the in-villa washing machine, provided laundry detergent, and clothes horse—super convenient for refreshing our swimwear and clothes during our stay.

When we arrived, we were greeted with the most thoughtful birthday surprises. A birthday “cake” made of towels, alongside a rich chocolate mousse dessert with edible rocks, and a handwritten birthday card. It was personal, charming, and instantly made us feel at home.

Another thoughtful touch was the resort-provided cell phone, which we kept with us during our stay. We used it to call for the buggy service, which transported us effortlessly from our villa to the main entrance near Kata Beach. The buggy was available any time of day and made getting around incredibly convenient. We also loved that the Kata area is so walkable—you can explore Kata Beach (gorgeous at sunset), local massage parlours, shops, and even a 7-Eleven, all just steps away.

Each morning began with a delicious à la carte breakfast. From tropical fruits and fresh juices to Thai-inspired dishes and perfectly brewed coffee, every detail was thoughtfully executed. The Tom Yam Eggs Benedict was a standout, packed with flavor and a unique Thai twist. I also enjoyed their house-made smoothies and the vanilla latte. One morning, when I wasn’t feeling well, a kind waitress noticed and offered to bring me some soothing ginger tea. Her gesture made all the difference.

The Restaurant impressed us throughout our stay. Breakfasts were relaxing and plentiful, and sunset cocktails by the water were a highlight of each day. For lunch one afternoon, we had the smoked salmon pizza and French fries—simple but delicious, and exactly what we wanted poolside.

The main pool is absolutely breathtaking, especially during golden hour. The loungers in the pool are unbelievably comfortable, perfect for enjoying a fresh coconut (or a cocktail!) while soaking up the views. Staff are always close by if you want to order something without ever leaving your lounger.

The spa was another highlight of our stay. Calm, sleek, and instantly soothing, the ambiance is perfect from the moment you walk in. My sister and I had an aromatherapy full-body massage in a couples’ room, and it was such a relaxing experience.

What truly elevated our experience, however, was the exceptional staff. Warm, professional, and consistently attentive, the team at Kata Rocks made every moment feel special. Whether offering local recommendations, ensuring seamless dining experiences, or simply greeting us with genuine smiles, the service was consistently world-class. A special thank you to Katie at the front desk, who looked after us throughout our stay with such care and kindness.

Kata Rocks is ideal for couples, honeymooners, or anyone looking for a serene, luxurious escape. While it’s not the place for a buzzing nightlife scene, if you’re seeking tranquility, elegance, and ocean views that are hard to beat, this resort delivers in every way.

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay at Kata Rocks, visit their website: www.katarocks.com