Tag: scenicview

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Hanging Gardens of Bali, Ubud- The Magical Jungle…

We were privileged to visit this unique Resort in the heart of the jungle, North of Ubud, Bali in November 2018. Upon our arrival at the resort, we were welcomed by the friendly staff members in their one of a kind open air reception area with a refreshing welcome drink and cold towel after our long drive.

What immediately caught our eyes was how proudly the property displayed their various Awards including their World Luxury Hotel Awards winner trophy and plaques in the reception area for all to see.

We were then shown around the resort in their “cable car” that goes all the way from the top of reception down to the bottom at the spa with beautiful views of the jungle as well as the Dalem Segara temple on the opposite hill.

We felt like royalty when they surprised us by upgrading our room to a Panoramic Villa with the most amazing view! The room had a comfortable spacious bed with a on suite bathroom and its own private infinity pool. This was such a treat to be able to relax in our own private pool while enjoying the views of this stunning property.

They serve daily afternoon tea that can be enjoyed at the spa area where all you hear is the relaxing sounds of the Ayung River flowing in the background. Here guests can enjoy a selection of coffees, teas and specially prepared snacks.

On our first nights stay we enjoyed incredible supper at the Three Elements Restaurant, and oh what a treat this was! The chef specially prepared a vegan friendly dish for us.

On our first morning waking up at Hanging Gardens, we went for a delightful guided walk with Gusti, a staff member, through the surrounding local villages and rice fields.

Morning walk with Gusti

This was certainly the highlight of our stay! It was so inspirational and interesting to see how the locals live and grow and farm their own fruit, vegetables ,rice and how they make a living of it, whether it be for their daily meals or medicinal reasons.

We also enjoyed locally sourced coffee in the village – certainly the best coffee we ever tasted.

After our walk and morning coffee we enjoyed a wonderful buffet breakfast at the Three Elements Restaurant. I had the waffles with fresh fruit it was delicious.

The resort offers complimentary shuttle service to and from the centre of Ubud town where we did plenty of shopping at the local stores,markets and visited some of the beautiful local temples.

Guests can enjoy soothing yoga classes and also visit the spa where they combine natural, local ingredients and ancient techniques, to create beauty therapies and treatments that soothe the mind, rejuvenate the body and energize the soul. The spa features a royal suite that is located by the Ayung River where you can enjoy an unforgettable experience among the natural sounds of the jungle.

One of the aspects of this resort that deserves special mention, is the remarkable swimming pool at its centre. The unique design creates an effect that the pool blends into the jungle and is something to behold in itself, but it is the position overlooking the trees and the Dalem Segara Temple that gives it the rare ability to make you feel completely at one with nature and leave you in awe as you relax over the edge.

We give great thanks to all staff members who went the extra mile to make our stay very pleasant, and especially to Gusti who left a special place in our hearts.

We would highly recommend Hanging Gardens of Bali Resort, especially if you are looking to relax, unwind and connect with nature, and we guarantee your mind, body and soul will feel refreshed after your stay.

Reviewed By Jana Vos and Lindi Smuts- World Luxury Hotel Awards Representatives.

To book this luxurious jungle escape go to https://hanginggardensofbali.com/

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A piece of heaven in the jungles of Ubud…

Ubud is located a hour and a half’s drive from Denpasar. The magical Ubud consists of green terraced hills, artists, yogi’s, silversmiths, stone carvers, painters, traditional dancers, temples, restaurants, bars and live music, all surrounded by an untouched jungle. Located 4 km outside Ubud is where you can find Tejaprana Resort & Spa, nestled in the lush jungles of the Petanu river valley in Tegallalang.

 When I arrived at Tejaprana Resort & Spa after making my journey through the vibrant street market, I was left speechless by the sheer beauty and serenity of this luxurious jungle sanctuary. If heaven is a place on earth, I believe Tejaprana Resort & Spa might be it. I was welcomed at the beautiful reception area with a refreshing wet towel as well as a vibrant yellow welcome drink. The reception consists of wood carved furniture as well as beautiful orchid plants. Once I was checked in the friendly staff showed me to my villa. Upon entering my villa, I was blown away by the sheer size, the beautiful décor, the view of the jungle as well as the special features. In all my years travelling I have never seen a more lavish yet cozy villa.

Tejaprana Resort & Spa is an architecture marvel, blending effortlessly with the organic growth of the jungle. The entire concept reminds me of a modern organic palace. The design elements are beautiful, modern and luxurious but also embodies the concept of being one with nature. The resort introduces travellers to Balinese culture and teaches a respect and admiration for their rituals and beliefs.

Whether you are taking a break, seeking a place to rejuvenate your soul, explore Balinese culture or enjoying a honeymoon, Tejaprana Resort & Spa is the perfect destination. The resort offers a variety of interesting activities for energetic travellers, but also offers privacy and serenity for travellers wanting to rest and soak in the splendour of the natural surroundings.

Tejaprana Resort & Spa comprises 28 cozily furnished villas, all facing east allowing you to take full advantage of the warmth of the morning sun. Each villa is complemented with a gazebo, an infinity plunge pool and an outdoor natural stone bathtub bringing you yet closer to the Balinese landscape embracing the resort. Tejaprana Resort and Spa was designed by Arte Architect and Associates.

One of my favourite activities was taking a refreshing swim in my infinity pool, followed by a relaxing bubble bath in the outdoors stone bathtub. All of this was enjoyed with a spectacular view of the jungle. I truly felt free and in touch with nature.

The resort features the spectacular Chatraka spa where guests can enjoy a view of the jungle while having their treatments. The extensive treatment list offers all pamper options as well as wellness rituals that will improve health. The resort also offers a special yoga space, Maitra Bale, where yoga is practiced twice a week. Private yoga sessions are also available.

The design of the Aruna restaurant incorporates a 180’ jungle view, high above ground level. Enjoying a meal at Aruna is a special experience in itself. The cuisine ranges from local and traditional to international dishes all cooked with fresh and organic ingredients. I often ordered room service in order to maximize my time spent in my private villa. The dining service is very quick and attentive, and I enjoyed sampling different Balinese dishes and desserts. My favourite was a banana and chocolate dessert. In addition, I was also impressed with their wine selection as they even had a beautiful Sauvignon Blanc from South Africa.

A delightful corner of comfort and art is the Oja Lounge & Gift Shop. It is a lovely boutique filled with radiant handmade jewellery, scarfs, hand bags and souvenirs to take home, it is also a good place to curl up with a book or enjoy afternoon tea or a cocktail.

Other amazing activities include, Kedisan village cycling, cooking classes, Kepitu village trekking, Yoga classes, and Canang making. The resort also offers a very unique activity where you can go with a guide on a special journey to participate in a traditional Balinese cleansing ritual. A guide takes you to a Hindu Balinese water temple that has a sacred stream. One is then cleansed underneath a waterfall.

Regardless of religion, beliefs or nationality, visitors often rave about this powerful and beautiful experience.

 Tejaprana Resort & Spa holds a special place in my heart and I would recommend any travellers to visit. Do be warned that once you have arrived at Tejaprana Resort & Spa, it is difficult to leave such a majestic place.

Just before I got into the car to depart for the airport, I was surprised to be handed a Polaroid image of myself and the Tejaprana staff that we had taken the day earlier. What a special departure gift and a way to remember my visit.

Reviewed By Michelle Snyman -Brand Manager and Events Coordinator World Luxury Hotel Awards.

To book this amazing jungle experience go to www.tejaprana.com 

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Immerse yourself in the magic and culture of Ubud..

Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa by L’Occitane is 20 minitues away from Ubud center, located in the traditional village of Kedewatan which means “Place of the gods”. The name of the Resort Kupu Kupu Barong meaning giant butterfly originally came from all the butterflies that were seen flying within the surrounding nature, however only a few lucky people have spotted the giant butterfly.

Arriving at Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa by L’Occitane we were intrigued at how hidden in the jungle the property is. At the open air Lobby we were taken by golf cart up winding hills to the reception and greeted with traditional flowers and a refreshing juice while our check in was handled. The staff were exceptionally friendly and attentive and we immediately felt at home and relaxed. The reception area was also open air and decorated with traditional wood carvings and flowers. Even though we were inside, we felt very much a part of the jungle and nature.

Once we were checked in we were escorted to our room, and what a room it was! The room was very traditional, with wood being the focal point as well as local carvings and designs. The room had a private balcony overlooking the jungle, which was simply breathtaking. We were treated to a special welcome on our bed and even a beautiful butterfly bag to use and take home. This extra touch definitely made us feel incredibly special and welcome. The bathroom was simple and elegant with a large bath and shower head above and separate toilet.  The roof pool and Japanese restaurant was just above our room so we spent a lot of time, ordering cocktails, lounging at the pool overlooking the jungle canopy and snacking from the bar menu. The traditional red umbrella’s used at the pool and throughout the resort really added to the charm and cultural feel of the resort.

The buffet breakfast, which is always a favourite of mine at any property definitely did not disappoint! With everything from a full English breakfast spread, waffles and flapjacks with Nutella to Indonesian dishes and a large variety of fruit. This was really a great way to start each day in the jungle! Dinner is just as fantastic and it is truly special with all the lighting and background music to enjoy your meal and hear all the night time jungle sounds.  The food and service were absolutely spectacular.The gym was also fantastic with all the necessary equipment needed for a training session while on vacation. Again I loved the open air layout and the feeling you are one with the jungle.

The staff were also exceptionally great in helping us arrange our day to day activities and even have a pest control department to remove any unwanted visitors from your room, This was very impressive as we did have a few unwanted guests.

Mango Tree Spa by L’Occitane was a wonderful and relaxing experience. Hidden in the jungle canopy, with the sounds of the jungle as music you feel truly relaxed after a massage and treatment.

My entire experience at Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa by L’Occitane was truly magical. I have never felt so relaxed and immersed in the local culture as I did here. You really get a feel for the jungle, the local community and an overall sense of peace. It is the perfect place to unwind, gain some knowledge and explore the surrounding area. Thank you Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa by L’Occitane for a truly enlightening stay, I hope to return in the near future.

Reviewed By Tanique Echardt – World Luxury Hotel Awards Executive Manager

To book this amazing property or look for more information go to www.kupubarongubud.com 

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TIME Oak Hotel & Suites, a truly magical experience…

TIME Oak Hotel & Suites is centrally located in Dubai, and within close proximity to the Mall of the Emirates. We received a warm welcome from staff members and were also greeted by the General Manager. We stayed in a spacious 3-bedroom suite which had its own kitchen and a big lounge area. We also had a great view from our terrace looking out on Dubai’s high-rise buildings and bustling streets.

The café at reception had the most delicious pastries and treats and we were also given a whole platter of sweets and snacks upon our arrival. Their attention to detail was great, the rooms and public areas were always very clean, and housekeeping regularly restocked our rooms.
The swimming pool was perfect, there was also a jacuzzi and a pool bar. The staff were very attentive and greeted us by name. The travel desk was a big help, they helped us book all our excursions and gave us great recommendations.

Breakfast was delicious, the chef made me an omelette, pancakes and waffles with cream every morning. The waiters were very friendly, and the Restaurant Manager also asked all the guests if they were happy with the service.
The hotel really made our stay personal, from the welcoming and throughout our stay the staff greeted us by name. They also arranged airport transfers for us which was very kind.

I would definitely recommend this hotel to travellers, it is well located and provides excellent service to its guests.

Reviewed by Kayla Lourens- World Luxury Hotel Awards representative.

To visit this beautiful hotel click on the link below

www.timehotels.ae

 

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A beach escape on Dubai’s Arabian Coast…

The Movenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach is located in Dubai’s lively seaside district called Jumeirah Beach residence, footsteps away from the warm Arabian ocean. The street is filled with award winning restaurants, shops and some of the best bars in the world.
What an ideal location, we were able to walk everywhere, the Dubai Marina Mall is the perfect place for shopping. In the marina was countless yachts which offered dinner cruises and tours.


We stayed in two executive rooms located on the 22nd floor of the hotel, overlooking the beautiful Jumeirah Beach. We were welcomed in our room with a display of homemade chocolates and a great bottle of wine. The duty manager personally escorted us to our rooms and showed us their facilities. We had exclusive access to the hotel’s executive lounge which offered complimentary high tea and evening drinks daily.


Breakfast was delicious, we had a special breakfast in the executive lounge every morning which was private, and we could sit outside with a great view of the beach. The staff greeted us by name and were very friendly and helpful.The swimming pool was great, and the barman made the tastiest cocktails. There was also a staff member who provided us with towels and umbrellas on the beach which was very convenient.

There are also a variety of restaurants to choose from and they have their own pizzeria, so you can order homemade pizza any time of the day.
In the lobby there was a café that offered ice cream and delicious coffee, there was also a souvenir shop which had the most beautiful gifts to purchase.
This hotel is one of the best addresses to stay in Dubai and will guarantee and unforgettable stay full of entertainment.

Reviewed by Kayla Lourens- World Luxury Hotel Awards representative.

To visit this beautiful hotel click on the link below

www.movenpick.com/en/middle-east/uae/dubai/hotel-dubai-jumeirah-beach/overview/

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Natural Simplicity – A Lover’s Paradise…

We arrived at Kilindi Zanzibar on a beautiful sunny day, as we looked over our new home for the next few days we noticed the resort is in the center of lush tropical gardens. Scattered among the beautiful gardens are a series of white-domed Pavilions. We where checked into a Kilindi luxury pavilion. The Pavilions have their very own private plunge pool, and possess a separate but extraordinary ‘rainfall’ shower room. These same showers provide not only a spectacular view to the Ocean but the liberating sensation of being ‘at one with nature’.

 

Kilindi achieves the perfect marriage between Scandinavian minimalism and the dramatic architectural overtones of Middle Eastern heritage, whilst encouraging an open, ‘back-to-nature’ ambiance throughout.

We really enjoyed the exceptional food throughout our stay and not to forget the delicious cocktails.

Thank you to all the staff who were so welcoming and especially Adam and Kim, Lucas and Julius – you made our stay perfect.

Our experience at Kilindi was magical and as close to paradise as you can get; we would recommend Kilindi to anyone looking to enjoy nature and luxury in a tropical paradise.

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To book this beautiful hotel click the link below

www.elewanacollection.com/kilindi-zanzibar/kilindi-zanzibar-at-a-glance

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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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Paradise in Cannes

Nestled in the heart of Cannes, the Radisson Blu 1835 Hotel & Spa provides 133 modern rooms, a panoramic Restaurant and an amazing rooftop terrace facing the Mediterranean Sea and the bay of Cannes.

Upon arriving at the Radisson Blu 1825 Hotel and Spa you are immediately struck by how beautiful the hotel is and the feeling of magic it evokes in you. We had an absolutely fantastic time at the beautiful Radisson Blu 1825 Hotel and Spa and were treated like royalty from the second we arrived. The location of the hotel is perfect with beautiful views of the ocean and within walking distance to the Old Harbour area, restaurants and shopping which is ideal for daily exploring. The staff were also extremely friendly and helpful with anything we needed

.

We were treated to a magnificent Harbour View (Mediterranean) suite with stunning harbour and ocean views. We immediately felt at home in the elegantly decorated suite with every amenity you can think of available to us.

Dinner at the famous Le 360° was amazing. The food is quite simply out of this world and is highly recommended.

With beautiful views, the perfect location and friendly, service oriented staff; our stay was spectacular and we definitely recommend Radisson Blu 1835 Hotel & Spa to all who visit Cannes.

Luxury at its finest!

Reviewed By World Luxury Hotel Awards Representatives

To book this beautiful Hotel Click Below

https://www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-cannes

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Mid-week relaxation in Copenhagens Absalon Hotel

After a highly successful yet demanding working weekend, I was blessed to be whisked off for some mid-week relaxation and exploration in Copenhagen, staying at the Absalon Hotel.

The hotel is very stylish and modern yet still holds the charm of yesteryear; we had a warm welcome that helped us to easily find our way to the hidden elevator which is cleverly disguised as bookshelves! We found ourselves on the top floor in the most gorgeous, colourful, spacious and comfortable room, with fabulous views of the surrounding city.

Absalon Hotel is perfectly located for taking a short walk to the fabulous Tivoli Gardens which is a hub of activity including an amusement park, entertainment, beautiful gardens and more, in the heart of the city. In fact we could even see the heart-stopping “Golden Tower” ride of Tivoli from our hotel window! For areas a bit further afield there are plenty of bicycles available for hire from the hotel as cycling is a popular and fun way to experience this intriguing city.

After a busy day of sight-seeing there was nothing better than returning to our room at the Absalon Hotel, sinking into the comfort of that wonderful bed with such perfect pillows is still fresh in my memory. Breakfast was another pleasure to enjoy – an extensive Continental Breakfast buffet with great coffee, juices and plenty of choices of breads, pastries, cheeses, meats and more.

The staff were all friendly and engaging and truly made our stay all the more memorable, thank you, especially to those who took some time to chat during our visit and really went out of their way make us feel at home.

To book or view more of this fantastic hotel click the link below

Welcome to Absalon Hotel

Reviewed By Linda Cooper- World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative