Tag: Travel

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These 10 Design hotels are a feast for your eyes…

The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel

This state of the art historical design hotel has everything you need. Offering 126 rooms with 10 categories starting from Premium and Superior room types up to imperial and Presidential residences. All the rooms are decorated in exquisite styles replicating the imperial chambers of the Winter palace. Only natural materials are used for the decoration of the guest rooms like natural wood, different sorts of Greek and Italian marble, silk wallpapers and hand crafted plaster gilded with gold.

Ovolo Woolloomooloo

Art and culture meet at the Ovolo Woolloomooloo. Located in Sydney, Australia this hotel is bold, innovative and community minded. Creating a design centric, social space where like minded individuals can enjoy everything from accommodation to co-working. The unique and intriguing design features of Ovolo Woolloomooloo effortlessly combine heritage with modern luxury, breathing a new lease of life into this historic Wharf in an absolutely stunning location over the picturesque Sydney Harbour.

Sarai Resort and Spa

Situated in the exotic city of Siem Reap, Sarai Resort & Spa is a luxury boutique, Moroccan-inspired design resort. Sarai has been designed to be a destination where travelers from East and West come to pleasantly discover superior services, beautiful and comfortable rooms, great food, exquisite spa, and a tranquil swimming pool. Its rural atmosphere makes Siem Reap the perfect destination for your vacation. Take a break from the demands of every-day life; take a breath, relax, look up to the stars and take a moment to just gaze at their gentle beauty.

Hotel VIC on the Harbour

Hotel VIC on the Harbour has been built to the most exacting standards through the combined star power of renowned award-winners Rocco Design Architects Ltd as project architect and Hirsch Bedner Associates as guestroom interior designer.

Conservatorium Hotel

This hotel is a Architecture design hotel based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Located in the Museum Square district, the true heart of the city, the Conservatorium is an architectural masterpiece that combines a landmark heritage building with graceful, contemporary design.

The Salil Hotel Sukhumvit 57 – Thonglor

A “Concept Living Space” representing a tranquil heavenly luxury hotel in the heart of Bangkok.The hotel boasts the most original and soulful luxury destination in Thong Lor, where business and chic living style are intertwined. All guest rooms are designed with a contemporary interpretation of the East meets West cultures through the pattern of wallpapers.

Alentejo Marmoris Hotel & Spa

At the heart of Alentejo, 180 km east from Lisbon and located in the historical town “Vila Viçosa”, the Alentejo Marmòris Hotel & Spa presents itself as the most luxurious new hotel of Portugal. This hotel is unique and distinctive – a real museum dedicated to marble.

The Torch Doha

At 300m high and with 360° panoramic views across Doha, THE TORCH is the centerpiece of Doha’s vibrant Sports City – Aspire Zone. This iconic 5-Star hotel features 51 floors, a revolving restaurant on the 47th floor and a cantilevered swimming pool anchored to the 19th floor. All rooms feature a mood-lighting system with 12 different colours, a unique iPad in-Room Solution and LED TVs.

Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal

A striking design hotel in Luxembourg’s historic center Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal gazes magnificently over the picturesque Alzette and Pétrusse valleys and Luxembourgs UNESCO Old Town. A grand modern glass structure of dramatic lines and curves, this 5-star hotel in Luxembourg is a landmark amid a tapestry of cultural historical and natural sites.

Hotel Éclat Beijing

This 5 star hotel is a stunning landmark on the Beijing skyline, standing impressively in the heart of the city’s downtown Central Business District – a perfect location for both business and leisure travelers. A focal point of the award-winning Parkview Green, the luxury boutique Hotel Éclat Beijing offers the rare opportunity to experience museum quality art while enjoying stylish accommodation, outstanding cuisine, intuitive yet non-intrusive guest services and a spectacular Mall within its unique architectural design.

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Prana Lodge An absolute stunner!

Prana Lodge is a unique small luxury beach lodge and wellness spa situated in a pristine forest alongside the spectacular Chintsa Bay, within minutes of rolling savannah and private game viewing.

My Husband and I had the pleasure of spending two nights at Prana Lodge in Chintsa. We were greeted by two staff members standing waiting for us to arrive. Once we stopped our vehicle they introduced themselves and took our car to park it as well as our luggage to put in our rooms. We were then welcomed with a  delicious refreshing drink.

We then went to the sauna, steamer, jacuzzi and then went to have a full body massage! It was amazing! Quiet and tranquil. It was so incredible that even my husband even fell asleep half way through.

They have 7 different suites. Ours was called the Citrine Suite. Each Suite is named after a different gem stone and they have the colour elements in the suite. Ours had yellow elements in the room. It was defiantly striking. Each suite has their own pool, and I absolutely loved relaxing outside there. The outside shower was exquisite as well.

Now for the food, one word… SUPERB! We were served a three course meal every night and had two options for the main dish. They decorated the plate beautifully, and served just enough to be able to get through the three course meal without feeling to full.

I have been telling people that this is a place they have to visit! Especially if you are needing a get away from your busy life and are needing time to relax and get your thoughts together. I cannot think of one thing to complain about! The staff always had smiles on their faces and were always eager to help when necessary. I would come back in a heartbeat.

Reviewed By L’toya and Neville Da Silva – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representatives

To view more about this property go to www.pranalodge.co.za

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Kolbe Hotel Rome; an enchanting experience from the city of Rome.

The city of Rome, Italy is an enchanting experience. Rome is a vibrant and decadent destination. It is filled with passionate Italian locals and rich history. Rome has played an important role as a political and religious capital during centuries of human civilization and should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Walking amongst the historic ruins of the Roman Forum is an experience that will leave you with goosebumps, not to mention a tour of the Colosseum where one can imagine gladiators having a brutal battle.

What made my Roman tourist experience truly special was the fact that our hotel was located right in the middle of all the important historic sites. Just a brief walk from Kolbe Hotel Rome brings you to the centre of it all.

“Surrounded by the magnificence of ancient Rome, only a few steps from the Circus Maximus and the Imperial Roman Forum, the building is located in an evocative and prestigious area right in the heart of the city.”

Kolbe Hotel Rome is a blend of modern and ancient décor; the furniture and finishing are modern and comfortable, yet the hallways are decorated with examples of ancient Roman clothing which is fascinating and really gives you an idea of what was worn back in the day

       

Upon entering the lobby guests are met with extremely friendly staff welcoming you to the hotel. The lobby leads into a contemporary bar lounge as well as the Garden Restaurant – Al Palatino. Guests can choose to sit inside or outside to enjoy a delicious gourmet meal. The garden outside is breathtaking.

“Keeping Mediterranean traditions alive, the courtyard reflects calmness, tranquility and peace. Guests can drink, dine or simply relax in this private sanctuary that is unique in all of Rome.”

The Kolbe Hotel Rome offers a variety of rooms. This includes double rooms, deluxe suites as well as family rooms. Rooms are generally decorated with maroon and light pastel colors and guests can enjoy bathroom amenities from Roberto Cavalli. One of the great features of the rooms are the big windows which open with a view of the surrounding area.

The hotel also offers great meeting and function facilities. During my stay at the Kolbe Hotel Rome, the hotel hosted a large corporate group with ease and professionalism.

Breakfast is served as an informal affair and leaves guests to help themselves to coffee and snacks from the buffet. This provides a relaxed environment for families or businessmen that want to grab a quick snack before heading to the next meeting.

Overall it was a wonderful stay that provided me quick access to the best that Rome has to offer.

Reviewed By Michelle Snyman

Brand Manager World Luxury Awards

To see more of this hotel click here

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Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre – Service Excellence Personified…

The first word I would like to use to describe this hotel, is surprising. And it’s not that the hotel doesn’t look great online, it’s why I chose it, but the pictures simply do not do it justice in comparison to what you actually experience when you enter the lobby, glistening with lighting and marble yet soft to the eye, immediately giving you a welcoming and warm feeling.

I arrived late in Dubai, and as such only reached the hotel at midnight. This didn’t stop the service from bustling to my attention; “Good evening Mrs. Evans and welcome, allow me to show you straight to your room.” Wow, no check-in, known by name, staff rushing around me to open elevators and take my bags. I’m already very impressed, and this was only the beginning

Junior Suite

I was treated to a Junior Suite on the 11th floor during my stay here, and apart from the fact that the view of Dubai is majestic from that high, the room itself was incredible. Large and spacious, one of the best beds and pillows I have ever had the pleasure of sleeping on during my travels, two televisions, a comfortable lounge and a generous bathroom filled with every amenity you would require.

View from my suite on the 11th floor

During my stay I was able to enjoy the bar on the 1st floor which has an extremely comfortable atmosphere. Every time you take a seat you are served some pub style snacks like popcorn, nuts and olives, and you can leisurely enjoy your drink while watching either sport, playing a game of pool or simply listening to the music. On Friday nights, Medley Restaurant holds what is known as the Art of Spice. An Indian cuisine delight created proudly by celebrity Chef Sweety Singh. Rows of serving pots line the buffet and you can sample as many as you want or can handle. I had a special dietary requirement yet this was no issue. Two delectable curries arrived at my table, served with fresh naan bread and all the sides required to make this a true Indian feast. I can see why the General Manager personally recommends this experience, as I will not soon forget it.

Soma Spa was by far the most relaxing experience on my journey. If you can, get a lady by the name of Chon to get her hands on you, I can guarantee you this will be worth every penny as her healing hands find every knot and aching spot on your body. The spa itself is beautifully laid out, tranquil and relaxing. The change rooms hold the sauna and steam room for use before your treatment, and after being sent into seventh heaven you are seated quietly to some ginger tea while you let the experience run over in your mind, relaxing you even further before returning to your day.

Soma Spa

All in all, a hotel is not only made up of walls and glitz and glamour. The true heart of a hotel, and what makes your stay memorable, is the hospitality of the staff that surround you. This hotel has it all. The glam, the rooms, the food, the spa, yet what stood out to me the most during my time here, was the staff. I have always said hospitality is a special sort of kindness, and it is something that you either have or don’t, it cannot be taught. Not a single member of their team made me feel that they were there because they had to be; they wanted to be. Their service excellence echoes through every corridor, radiates out of every meal served, in every passing greeting, in every room service delivered. And this single point alone is what made this one of the best and most enjoyable hotels I have had the pleasure of visiting.

This hotel will suit every travel requirement, so when passing through Dubai and looking for accommodation for one or seven nights, you will not be disappointed to make this your selection.

Book or view this hotel by clicking here

Reviewed By Joanna Evans

World Luxury Awards Marketing Communications Manager

 

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Jumeirah Celebrates Success at the 2017 World Luxury Hotel Awards

Jumeirah Hotels in the Maldives and Kuwait scoop several awards

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa

Dubai, 10, December 2017: Jumeirah Vittaveli in the Maldives has been named Global Hotel of the Year and Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa in Kuwait was named Luxury Business Hotel of the Year at the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2017 held in Switzerland.

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa

Jumeirah Vittaveli was also named global winner for Best Luxury Island Resort and continent winner for Best Luxury Family Beach Resort. The Royal Residence at Jumeirah Vittaveli was named continent winner for Best Luxury Beachfront Villa, Best Luxury Hideaway Villa and Best Luxury Private Villa – an incredible overall result for Jumeirah Vittaveli.

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa also took home awards for LuxuryEco/Green Hotel and Luxury Beach Resort. The hotel was named  Luxury Destination Spa and Luxury Wellness Spaat the World Luxury Spa Awards 2017.

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa

Jumeirah Vittaveli’s General Manager, Mr Amit Majumder, received the awards at a grand event held in St Moritz, Switzerland. “I’m overwhelmed by the awards we received tonight. I can only say a very big Thank You to my team who has worked so hard to get us where we are today. And to our guests who continue to show their love for our little piece of paradise by returning regularly. We will continue to surprise you and strive to be worthy of this immense recognition. Being named Global Hotel of the Year 2017 in a fierce competitive field truly is the epitome of our recognitions this year.”

Jumeirah Vittaveli

General Manager, Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa, Savino Leone, said: “We are deeply touched and proud to receive worldwide recognition for our continuous efforts in luxury hospitality in Kuwait. This coveted award is another testament to our brand promise of delivering exceptional guest experiences. It has been a great and successful year and we only hope to elevate our benchmarks of excellence in services in the years to come.”

Setting the basis for service industry standards around the globe, the World Luxury Hotel Awards provides true recognition to luxury hotels and resorts in their relevant categories during its annual voting phase. Over 300,000 votes were tallied this year from travellers and guests of these luxury establishments during the voting phase. Properties from over 120 countries competed in the 2017 awards and it is truly an honour to be one of the selected nominees and winners.

About Jumeirah Group:
Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, operates a world-class portfolio of hotels and resorts including the flagship Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts manages properties in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Kuwait in the Middle East; Frankfurt, Istanbul, London and Mallorca (Spain) in Europe; the Maldives and Shanghai in Asia. Jumeirah Group also runs the luxury serviced residences brand Jumeirah LivingTM with properties in London and Dubai; the wellness brand TaliseTM; Jumeirah Restaurant Group DubaiTM; Wild Wadi WaterparkTM; The Emirates Academy of Hospitality ManagementTM; Jumeirah SiriusTM, its global loyalty programme; and isme by Jumeirah™ an app based rewards programme in the UAE. Future openings include luxury hotels in the UAE, Bahrain, Indonesia, China, Oman, Jordan, Malaysia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. www.jumeirah.com

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The Chedi Andermatt – A Dream Come True Destination

Andermatt is a village in the Ursern Valley in the Swiss Alps; nestled in the heart of this quaint, snowy wonderland is The Chedi Andermatt, a ski hotel quite unmatched in its beauty and winter charm. The Chedi Andermatt will captivate and move you.

We were afforded the luxury of being accommodated in the two-bedroom Grand Deluxe Suite at this property and although we are sure every room at this hotel is phenomenal, this particular suite was breathtaking. Walking in to a more than spacious lounge, an electric fireplace blazing like it’s been waiting to welcome you all day, a well equipped kitchen and an 10-seater dining room table; you feel like you are right at home. A very luxurious home!

The bedrooms are sublime. Massive open spaces with balconies overlooking the snowy town below, beds and pillows that kiss you goodnight each time you enter their soft haven, and bathrooms so large and spacious, you feel as though you are royalty living in a palace.

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Dining at the hotel was superb. There are four outstanding restaurants and bars to choose from which boast a menu range enough to suit anyone’s requirements. The staff are friendly, polite and very dedicated to providing top quality, international standards of service throughout your stay. A particular highlight in The Restaurant is The Wine and Cheese Cellar: at five meters high it attracts cheese connoisseurs who marvel at its delights through the glass walls.

One of my most favourite places to visit in any hotel is the spa, and The Chedi Andermatt lives up to and surpasses the standards of luxury. I took some time out especially to enjoy the 35 meter indoor pool, and this was topped by the 12 meter outdoor pool, filled with blissfully hot water to swim around in while the snow pours down your head as you take in the beautiful Alpine surroundings.

If you feel like skiing, you will receive your own personal Ski Butler, a feature we have yet to see in any other hotel we have visited. He will take care of your every need from getting up the mountain, renting your equipment and ensuring you have an international ski instructor available to show you the ropes. Another favourite feature was that The Chedi Andermatt has its own ice skating rink for when you feel like lazily skating around a rink in the snow surrounded by the resort and mountain views.

All in all, The Chedi Andermatt is probably the most unique, stylish and luxurious hotel I have ever had the privilege of staying in. The staff are above the quality of what one could hope for, and no doubt in my mind that whatever your reason for travelling to this destination may be, you will feel relaxed, pampered and ready for anything by check out.

Reviewed By Joanna Evans

To book this breathtaking Hotel follow the details below.

website – click here

email- info@chediandermatt.com

 

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Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage

Situated in the heart of medieval Brugges, rich in history and gastronomy, Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage, is the exquisite setting for your romantic getaways and for all your special celebrations in life.

Photo with Nagi, one of the amazing employees at Hotel Heritage.

Upon arrival at Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage, we were warmly welcomed and checked in by Jessie who showed us to our room. Our room was absolutely stunning and elegantly decorated with exquisite attention to detail. The hand written welcome note from Johan and Isabelle really made us feel welcomed.

Our beautifully decorated room.

The Hotel’s location is in the heart of Brugges, close to the market square and the city’s many canals, this is ideal for sightseeing, museums, chocolate shops and theatres.

Exploring the market and canals.

Each morning we had a full buffet champagne breakfast, which was served in their beautiful dining area. The food was absolutely divine and local Belgian waffles were definitely a highlight.

We were personally greeted by owners Johan and Isabella and had lovely chats with them. All the staff are incredibly friendly, attentive and provided the highest level of service.

A glass of red wine and snacks at Bar le Magnum in such a beautiful setting truly relax’s you before dinner at Le Mystique Restaurant. This was without a doubt the best 5 course meal I have ever experienced. Chef Gregory Slembrouck is a true master in the kitchen and this is one meal I will never forget. Only the finest seasonal ingredients are used and combined with World class flavours to create these wonderful gourmet delights.

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Johan and Isabelle are true visonaries in creating the perfect boutique hotel.
Rich in history, charming and absolutely magnificent would be the best way to describe my stay at Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage. I do hope to return one day in the near future.

To view more click here

To send a booking inquiry – info@hotel-heritage.com

Reviewed By Tanique Echardt- Executive Manager World Luxury Hotel Awards

 

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Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese – Rome – Italy

Arriving at Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese, guests are welcomed to a cozy lobby styled with classic as well as contemporary décor. A beautiful crystal chandelier hangs from the roof, while the colorful avant-garde painting against the wall and a vintage Vespa scooter parked next to the staircase sets the scene. The walls of the hotel are lined with 1960’s black and white portraits of films stars. Guests are transported back the glamorous vintage era of La Dolce Vita, a famous Italian film that translates into “the good life”.

images of hotel

This boutique hotel features 81 luxury rooms, conference as well as meeting space. The hotel also features the La Terrasse Cuisine & Lounge that provides a breathtaking rooftop view over the city of Rome. It is no surprise that Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese was voted as the 2017 global winner in the category, Luxury Rooftop View Hotel, during the 2017 World Luxury Hotel Awards.

view from rooftop

Guests can enjoy a Mediterranean lunch or gourmet dinner at the award-winning restaurant or sip a cocktail during sunset while enjoying the spectacular view of the capital.

bar

The hotel is located close to the famous Spanish steps and is only a 15-minute taxi ride from tourist attractions like the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum and the Borghese Gallery. The staff are incredibly helpful and the concierge team comes highly recommended to assist you in organizing a perfect day out.

room

The rooms are comfortable and offer Sofitel MyBed® bedding, marble bathrooms, luxury bathrobes, WIFI and 24-hour room service. One of the features that stood out in the room was a portable telephone that ensures connectivity as well as a mobile network to foreign travelers.

staircase into the hotel lobby

Guests can look forward to a comfortable and stylish stay at Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese.

Hotel Reviewed by Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager of World Luxury Hotel Awards.

To view this hotel click here

To phone +39 06478021

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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