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The NH Doelen Amsterdam, a historical masterpiece…

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

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

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

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

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

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

Review By Tanique Echardt – Executive Manager

To book this hotel go to their website: click here

Or email them: here

To view more reviews click here

 

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InterContinental Davos – A Winter Wonderland Experience

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To book this breathtaking Hotel follow the details below.

website – click here

email- InterContinental.Davos@ihg.com

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The Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection hotel

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

Review By Tanique Echardt – Executive Manager

To book this hotel go to their website: click here

Or email them: here

To view more reviews click here

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Over water villas that will leave you breathless…

Dusit Thani Maldives

Maldives

In this setting of unparalleled beauty, enjoy the breath-taking scenery at this over water stilt-hanging haven. Gaze at the ever-changing turquoise hues of the lagoon or take a dip from your private deck. Alternatively, cool off in your very own private waterfront pool.

With a unique combination of beach and lagoon access, all Water Villas are furnished with subtle Thai touches imbued with Maldivian architecture and appointed with modern amenities.

Visit the website here

Diamonds Thudufushi

Maldives

The island features elegant beach bungalows and luxury overwater villas. A wellness centre offers ayurvedic treatments and a diving centre caters to the underwater experience of our guests. The Diamonds Thudufushi resort is a luxury paradise situated just a 20-minute scenic seaplane flight away from Malé International Airport.

Visit the website here

Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson

Malaysia

Nestled along Port Dickson’s Pasir Panjang beach and overlooking the Straits of Malacca, the iconic and expansive Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson sprawls into the Straits of Malacca and resembles the national flower of Malaysia. With a total of 639 pool villas comprising 117 tower rooms and 522 water villas, each villa is spacious, tastefully decorated and comes with its own private dip pool and steam room for luxury and privacy.

Visit the website here

Diamonds Athuruga

Maldives

Boasting elegant beach bungalows, Junior Suite and beautiful overwater villas, Diamonds Athuruga is a luxury paradise located at just a 20 minutes scenic flight away from Malé International Airport.

Athuruga is the ideal resort to discover the Maldives from a centre of excellence, where attention to detail will make your journey unforgettable. Let yourself be charmed by one of the most unique, enchanting well-known coral reefs in the Maldives.

Visit the website here

Myanmar Treasure Resort, Inle

Myanmar

Inle Lake is one of Myanmar’s most anticipated destinations, it is a vast body of water, 875 meters above sea-level featuring a unique ecosystem, singular life-styles and rich traditions. Sitting right on the lake waters, Myanmar Treasure Resort, Inle offers an elegant combination of traditional local lifestyle and the comforts of modern accommodation to capture a tradition held long and true.

Visit the website here

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

Maldives

Dip your toes in the ocean and spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach – the Maldives is yours to do as you please.

At The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi and take your pick from a range of stunning accommodation including breath-taking water villas, beach villas, and exclusive retreats. Here at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, not only do you get to experience luxury, you get to experience the traditional Maldivian culture too.

Visit the website here

 

Novotel Inle Lake Myat Min Resort

Myanmar

Choose from an airy suite looking onto the resort’s lush gardens, or a spacious villa right on the water. The infinity pool invites you to soak up the views, and the sunset on the lake provides an unforgettable backdrop for holidays or meetings at Novotel.
Inle Lake is located at the heart of the Shan Plateau, one of Myanmar’s top destinations. It is a beautiful highland lake, 900 meters above sea level and inhabited by different indigenous tribes.

Visit the website here

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This Lakeside city hotel in Hanoi is a treat for business and leisure..

The InterContinental Hanoi Westlake is located on the largest lake in the city of Hanoi and is situated just minutes from the Old Quarter. Guests can look forward to experiencing space and relaxation in this elegant haven. The hotel is a pleasant escape from the buzz of the busy city.

Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure this hotel offers the best of both worlds. For business travellers, the hotel offers exclusive meeting rooms and privacy for high profile businessmen and heads of state. The facilities of InterContinental Hanoi Westlake range from larger than life conference halls to very exclusive dining rooms meant for the elite.

As a leisure guest, the hotel offers resort like features, from a lavish pool to the ultra-trendy Sunset Bar. The Sunset Bar is the place to be for cocktails, offering an experience that is unmatched anywhere else in Hanoi. Situated between the three pavilions in a stunning lakeside setting, the bar is reached via a stroll across a torch-lit bridge. Discover the city’s best-kept secret as the renowned team makes guests the perfect cocktail for any occasion.

True to the InterContinental brand the hotel offers the best in a variety of food and beverage options. The hotel offers 6 dining options that range from fine dining gourmet to comfort food such as Italian favourites. Experience a traditional Bamboo Village, an elegant glimpse of authentic Vietnamese culture, or explore the diverse culinary flavours of the Mediterranean region, exclusively prepared by French Executive Chef Jerremy Lassarre.

The 293 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites are cloaked in a tranquil residential setting. Of these rooms, 132 are located on two unique Island Pavilions set just above the picturesque waters of West Lake. Contemporary Vietnamese design meets spacious intimacy with cream coloured walls and dark timber floors and furniture, complemented by rich textures and vibrant colours. Each room and suite features a private balcony with a superb view of either West Lake or the Hanoi skyline.

My favourite item in the room was a petit four boat that introduces the traditional floating market. The floating market is an integral part of daily life throughout all of Vietnam’s waterways and features locally grown fruits and vegetables as well as traditional dishes usually starts at 4 or 5 in the morning and ends before the heat of mid-morning at 10.

Whether you are hosting a big wedding event, taking up residence for a long-term business deal or experiencing Hanoi as a tourist, you would be lucky to book and stay at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake.

Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager

To book this hotel go to their website: click here

Or email them: here

To view more reviews click here

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Sunrise Premium Resort Hoi An – A Most Charming Beach Resort Experience

Twilight poolside

Set along the coast of Vietnam on the South China Sea, is a town known for its magical charm, French and Japanese influenced ancient town and its many lanterns that light its streets at night. Hoi An is a must-see destination. Straddled on the beach front with views of mountains protruding out the water, is a beach resort made for any type of vacation, Sunrise Premium Resort Hoi An. Come as a family or a couple, come for business or pleasure, this is the place to stay.

Charming decorations around the resort
Charming decorations around the resort

We were greeted on check-in personally by the General Manager who invited us for a welcome refreshment. After this delightful introduction, we were taken to our Club Deluxe Ocean View room and we immediately settled into its vibey, beach apartment style luxury. The rooms are comfortable and well laid out with a sealed balcony (to keep out the local fauna) where one can sit and read on the couch while looking out at the ocean. There is even an option for pillow type tucked neatly under a rose on each bed.

Club Deluxe Room
Club Deluxe Room

With the Club Deluxe benefits option, one can take a shuttle in and out of Hoi An Ancient Town to go and experience the town in all its glory. An evening trip to see the streets lit up with so many colourful lanterns is an experience not to miss. Booking the shuttles with the concierge was always an easy task and the staff were friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. And don’t worry about the rain, you are provided an umbrella and a pair of flip flops for either around the resort or your excursions.

Hoi An Ancient Town at night
Hoi An Ancient Town at night

The Resort has many fine restaurants and accompanying them are staff of top international quality, and some of the best Vietnamese food we had on our journey. Every dish was candy to the eyes and a taste sensation. Chef’s Tuyet or Cesar were at our table with every meal to introduce us to what was placed before us and every dietary requirement was kindly adhered to and guaranteed, with a smile.

Meals are always beautifully plated
Meals are always beautifully plated

The Resort boasts two incredible pools, one for the family and one exclusively for adults which is set amongst thatch umbrellas and loungers on the beach. Close by is an idyllic cocktail bar which is always welcome when the clock strikes happy hour at 5 pm! No need to move though, you will be brought a menu by one of the waiters and tropical drinks will come served in minutes while you relax and take in the ocean views.

The pools and beach area are the main attraction at Sunrise
The pools and beach area are the main attraction at Sunrise

We were treated to a sublime massage and facial at the beautiful Bliss Spa, which was certainly a highlight of our visit. Once again, warming and welcoming staff who know exactly what to do with their hands to send you into seventh heaven while you relax to the natural sounds around you.

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After three nights in paradise, swimming in the ocean and discovering the beautiful garden trails around the resort, we were sad to leave which I think says it all. We definitely left a piece of our hearts at Sunrise…

To book this breathtaking resort follow the details below.

website – click here

email- resa@sunrisehoian.vn

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Furama Resort Danang, a culinary and style experience not to forget…

The beauty and charm of Furama Resort Danang is held in its adherence to its beautiful, traditional Vietnamese style architecture, mixed with French-colonial influences. Being the first resort of its kind to be built in the Da Nang area 20 years ago, it has been extremely well maintained and offers all the amenities and comforts of some of its modern neighbours, yet with far more warmth and character.

The welcome drink, a cold, delicious fruit cocktail served in a hollowed-out dragon fruit is definitely a sight to behold for the hot and weary traveller. The rooms have every conceivable requirement, along with traditional Vietnamese hats, stylish umbrellas, and beach flip flops for use during your stay.

The resort offers plenty of activities such as diving, a range of water sports, Tai Chi on the beach, cooking classes and more, there is also a Fitness Centre and there are a number of excursions in the area to choose from. One can always spend the day relaxing by the pool-side or beach with a thatch umbrella to shade you. The Furama Spa is open until 11pm, and also offers treatments at the pool-side.

Furama Resort is known for its culinary excellence and there is certainly plenty of choice when it comes to meal times, The Fan steakhouse restaurant on the beachfront offers the perfect position for romantic dining with the most scenic setting, especially at sunset as the lanterns light up around the beach and all over the resort. There is an Italian restaurant, Don Cipriani’s, which has a touch of fine dining elegance and offers a range of traditional Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh local seafood. The signature restaurant, Café Indochine offers a wide variety of Vietnamese cuisine on the al la carte menu, along with some Western favourites. There is a sumptuous seafood buffet here in the evenings and there is a full range of choice with many international options at the morning breakfast buffet.

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Each and every member of staff is so friendly and genuinely helpful, this makes one feel totally at home, which in turn makes it very hard when it is time to leave.

Linda Cooper – Executive Manager Luxury Restaurant Awards

for more information visit www.furamavietnam.com
or Book: reservation@furamavietnam.com

To view more reviews click here 

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W Retreat & Spa Bali a design masterpiece

The W Retreat & Spa Bali Seminyak

W Retreat & Spa Bali

Sensational Seminyak, home of the W Retreat & Spa Bali, was my epic destination for a recent business trip to the region. Getting to the hotel you will find yourself weaving your way through the lively cultural area, streets spilling over with locally produced artworks, shops and restaurants.

W Retreat & Spa Bali

Approaching the hotel you are lead through a vibrant green tunnel of foliage – a magnificent sight!

W Retreat & Spa Bali

I walked into a gorgeous display of red lip shaped chocolates and music when arriving at my beautiful room… one of the quirky touches that just made me smile.

W Retreat & Spa Bali

Another memorable experience was breakfast at the Fire Restaurant, where you get to choose your own coffee mug in an Alice-in-Wonderland type experience – A truly unique and bold approach to luxury hospitality! They serve generous portions of Westernised dishes, all housed in beautiful architecture and chandelier clad

W Retreat & Spa Bali

W Retreat & Spa Bali

Innovation and intuition encounter a free-spirited and vivacious energy – a perfect synergy providing both an exciting vacation experience as well as a relaxing one, depending on what you’re in the market for. Think top International DJ’s and fashionable events lined up year round, drawing in people from around the world to share in this exciting atmosphere.   

W Retreat & Spa Bali

W Bali is a highlight in Seminyak. Not only is this hotel a lot of fun, but the staff are amazing. I lost my cell phone charger (and the device was a unique model), within an hour they had purchased me a new one, even though the local shop had already closed for the day. Now that is extraordinary hospitality and one that I will never forget. I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Bali.

Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager

to book click W Retreat & Spa Bali Seminyak 

or Email: whotels.bali@whotels.com

To view more reviews click here

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Amanzi Island Lodge… a very special coastal retreat

Amanzi Island Lodge

Amanzi island Lodge

When you arrive at a destination, and you are met with playful bicycles and kayaks, you know that you are stepping into an adventure!

Quietly nestled overlooking the spectacular Knysna lagoon, discover Amanzi Island Lodge… a very special coastal retreat.

Amanzi island Lodge

Amanzi island Lodge operates like a private luxury home. Guests have access to full kitchen, dining and living areas – exuding a sense of home-away-from-home. The fridge is stocked and we helped ourselves to wonderful beverages at leisure. We particularly loved the daily high-tea, reminiscent of a bygone era.

Amanzi island Lodge

The look-and-feel of this laid-back luxury lodge is one of serenity. Clean coastal white walls, pastel blue interiors, and wooden textures lay the background tone to vacation bliss. Unique decor furniture pieces and contemporary modern artwork adorn the walls – attributing style and artistic expression.

Amanzi island Lodge

We were fortunate enough to stay in the Honeymoon Kingfisher Suite, and it was spectacular. The suite epitomizes ultimate luxury and features its own lobby, walk in closets (every girl’s dream!), spacious bathroom, wrap-around deck, pool and of course, all this looking out onto the breathtaking Knysna lagoon.

Amanzi island Lodge

The property also features a computer room, beautiful garden, swimming pool as well as multiple comfortable sitting corners to enjoy a good book. The team is incredibly friendly and they went well out of their way to provide a memorable and beautiful experience for us.

Amanzi island Lodge

Amanzi Island Lodge is one of Knysna’s best-kept secrets and would be the most amazing honeymoon option for couples or for a family holiday where there are flexible self-catering options available.

Amanzi island Lodge

Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager World Luxury Hotel Awards

for more information visit www.amanzilodge.co.za
or Book: info@amanzilodge.co.za

To view more reviews click here 

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Head Over Hills For this Luxury Retreat

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat is located high up on the famous Knysna Heads. This luxurious guest house opens out onto a large deck, infinity pool and one of the most breathtaking views I have ever seen. The view overlooks the majestic blue ocean below and staggering cliffs. Watch these light up at sunset, when the sky transforms into a kaleidoscope of pink and blue. The location and atmosphere of this property is rare and precious.

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

This intimate boutique guesthouse is the ultimate in relaxation. We could kick off our shoes and relax at leisure as if in the comfort of our own home. The house is beautifully decorated with modern and elegant features that flow with the oceanic surroundings. Above all, it has an incredible warmth, combined with luxury and class.

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

The 8 luxury rooms are spacious and the bathrooms are enormous. The owners have spared no expense in ensuring only the best is offered, but the most impressive feature is the Hästens bed. These Swedish manufactured, specialized beds were amazing and we slept so soundly – all contributing to a truly relaxing stay. One of my top treats was the Smeg fridge filled with complimentary beverages – how wonderful!

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

Dining was an event all on its own… The charismatic and hospitable staff hosted us on both evenings, and they never failed to impress. Impeccable meals were served using fresh ingredients, and of course were presented beautifully to round off the experience.

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat
Delicious oysters

By the time we left, I felt like family. They hosted us with so much warmth and care that we were instantly bonded. The owners of Head over Hills are passionately involved with the daily operation of their bespoke property, and they remain shining examples of what it means to provide outstanding and world-class hospitality.

Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat

They have recently also launched Head over Hills Travels, an expert travel company that specializes in booking a dream South African holiday. www.headoverhillstravel.co.za

Michelle Snyman- Brand Manager World Luxury Hotel Awards


“This property is remarkable and showcases one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa. Make sure you experience this at least once!”
www.headoverhills.co.za
Contact: info@headoverhills.co.za