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
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
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
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 ArrivalShop
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 RoomEvent SaunaWine 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/
In a recent visit to Bali my husband and I had the privilege of staying at this unique, tranquil resort.
From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the serene design and attention to detail. The bamboo-crafted architecture created a harmonious connection with the surrounding lush greenery.
The room was cosy and beautifully furnished with a luxurious bed draped in airy white curtains, providing a perfect balance of comfort and style. We were pleasantly surprised with a handwritten note on the bed, a thoughtful touch that made us feel so welcomed.
Waking up to the breathtaking view of the rice fields was an unforgettable experience.
The private pool overlooking the tropical landscape was another highlight. Relaxing there with the sound of the waterfall in the background felt like being in paradise.
The food was absolutely delicious and deserves special mention. Every meal was a treat for the senses, with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and authentic flavors. The attention to detail in the presentation and the warm service elevated the dining experience even further.
The service at the resort was impeccable, with attentive staff ensuring every need was met with a smile. This stay felt like a blend of eco-conscious living and luxury.
We highly recommend this gem to anyone looking for a tranquil and rejuvenating getaway with mouthwatering cuisine and heartfelt hospitality.
Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Chanté van Rensburg.
