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Beachside bliss at New Star Beach Resort, Koh Samui

Our recent stay at New Star beach resort in Koh Samui was superb.
Upon arrival we were warmly welcomed by the Resorts Sales manager and General manager.
All of the staff members were professional and the welcome drinks were presented very uniquely.

We also received complimentary drinks and snacks while getting comfortable in our room. We had a beautiful room with lots of natural light and a very comfortable bed.

The staff were extremely friendly, and the restaurant manager deserves a special mention for the excellent service throughout our stay. We had two great dinner evenings at the restaurant and enjoyed the breakfast buffet with a big variety of delicious prepared food.

The staff were very helpful and offered to help us arrange all our local tours. The general manager also offered personal assistance to make our stay most relaxing and memorable.The management team offered us a tour through the hotel to learn more about the hotel and what the hotel have to offer.
The scenery was beautiful and it was wonderful to walk in such a quiet and peaceful environment since our room was on the beach front.

The room was comfortable, clean, spacious and nicely decorated. The hotel provides every facility you will need without leaving the comfort of the hotel and is located in the perfect spot in close proximity to local attractions. We really enjoyed the swimming pool with a spectacular view of the ocean.


The atmosphere and scenery is so special that it really felt like home.

Upon checking out the staff offered a wake-up call and arranged a taxi where the general manager accompanied us to the airport.

The check-out procedure was fast and the staff thanked us for our stay.
We will most definitely stay here again and highly recommend New Star Beach Resort.

All respect for the general manager who not only does a great job here but is a true sample of excellent hospitality.

 

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Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort – A luxurious Resort for the entire family …

When staying at the Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort, you can be sure that you won’t want to leave the resort for the duration of your entire stay.. This resort offers everything you need and features facilities for the whole family to enjoy as well as being a very romantic experience. We stayed at the resort in November 2018 for unfortunately only 1 night, which was certainly not enough!

Upon arrival at the resort, we already felt at home when being friendly welcomed by the dedicated staff members, who escorted us through the beautiful, modern hotel lobby to the check-in area. While we enjoyed a refreshing welcome drink, we were immediately asked if we would prefer a late check out the next day which was the best decision we made.

Our room offered modern designs and facilities, the best part being the privilege to stay in a room whose balcony walks out straight into the pool that connects to the main pool.

View from room

This pool features their outdoor L’ oh pool bar area in the middle of the pool with the pool on one side and amphitheater style seating on the other, where you can enjoy drinks, pizzas, ice creams etc.

L’ oh pool bar

In addition to this pool bar, you can enjoy drinks and meals at their other restaurants such as Cucina, which boasts an Italian and Mediterranean setting; Kwee Zeen, with more of an Asian style or Toya Beach Bar and Grill, featuring a more relaxed seaside lounge area with a pool.

Cucina Restaurant

At the turn down night service we received a beautiful tea set with tasty tea to unwind before we went to bed.

The So Spa at Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua comes highly recommended with its wide variety of relaxing treatments, the ornamental pool that overflows to the spa’s sunlit exterior and the beautiful dramatic architecture. Both staying and outside guests are welcome to make use of the spa as well as the So fit gym right next to it. If you are staying at the hotel, you can also benefit from enjoying a treatment in their open Balinese ‘bale’ gazebo on the resort’s beachfront or in the comfort of your own room, with the offer of treatments for children too.

So Spa

We believe the resort is the perfect family destination, because of their exciting kids’ club and pool where your children will be entertained for the duration of the day by professional, well trained staff members, giving mom and dad time to relax and spend some quality time together.

Kids Club Pool

In addition to the beautiful pools at the resort, they also have their own private beach where you can enjoy many beach and water sport activities.

Guests staying at Luxury Room Club Millésime, Suites and Villas receive a wide variety of benefits with the Club Millésime, which includes exclusive access to the Club Millésime lounge and club pool, your own personal butler, late checkout, daily complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea and a wide variety of snacks, complimentary breakfast and much more.

Our Wonderful Butler
Afternoon Tea

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, family holiday or even a business destination for your visit to Nusa Dua, look no further than Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort, as this property is perfect to suit all your needs.

World Luxury Hotel  Awards representatives Ms Jana Vos and Ms Lindi Smuts stayed here in November 2018

To book your next holiday here click on the link below

sofitel.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-9078-sofitel-bali-nusa-dua-beach-resort

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A spectacular wellness experience at The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa…

Arriving at The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is like being transported to another world. As our driver stopped at the entrance we were immediately warmly greeted by the staff and a large gong was rung to announce our arrival.

The lobby and reception area is truly beautiful with an open air layout, beautiful chandelier and contemporary décor. We were warmly greeted by Ninta who helped us with our check in. She also gave us a refreshing drink which helps with your metabolism and overall wellbeing.

Since we arrived early for check in we were escorted by our butler Merdita to Sapphire Bar and offered a complimentary cocktail and some snacks, what a surprise and absolute treat especially after a long car journey.

After enjoying our cocktails and relaxing Merdita escorted us to our rooms while also showing us around the Resort and giving us any information we needed. Walking through the resort we were struck by how beautiful the entire property is. The crystal blue lagoon pools, the ocean, lush gardens and swaying palm trees all add to the beauty and magic of the resort.. We stayed in a Deluxe Lagoon View Room with a private balcony and even a view of the ocean in the background. The room was modern and contemporary with beautiful designs and an overall relaxed feeling. The bathroom was stunning and elegant with a huge bath and shower.  We were also welcomed with a personal note, a beautiful Luxury Collection teddy and some delectable snacks. As soon as we had settled in the room we headed to one of the lagoon pools to relax with a signature cocktail and snacks. What a way to start a stay!

Dinner at the Arwana Restaurant was a real treat with the option to sit inside or on the beach watching the waves and sunset. The food was sublime with the freshest seafood and salads available. I must say the Chicken Ceaser Salad here is the best I have ever experienced while travelling.

Being a fitness fanatic the Lagoon Fitness Centre was absolute heaven for me. The layout of the gym, the equipment and the staff were all world class. While running on a treadmill you face one of the Lagoon pools with a fountain. What more does one need to start off a day in paradise! There are also showers, a sauna and steam room available. The Spa is right next to the gym and offers a range of treatments. This is one of the best Fitness Centres I have experienced at a hotel.

We also had the opportunity to take part in the Yoga Class which is held twice a week. This was a new experience for me and very enjoyable. It is so relaxing to start your day off this way.

Breakfast at Banyubiru was an experience in itself. I have never experienced such variety at a buffet with a stunning setup and flow to it. The food was out of this world and every morning we had an absolute feast!

The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle to Bali Collection, which is an open air mall for guests to go and shop. This was a fantastic experience and the best shopping of my entire trip was done here. After a day of shopping you can return to the hotel and relax at the beach, one of the lagoon pools or pop into the shop for a delicious ice cream to cool off.

With its perfect location, impeccable service, range of activities and everything you need at your fingertips, The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is truly a magical paradise and world on its own.

Three days here and you leave relaxed, invigorated and enriched! Thank you to everyone at The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa for an unforgettable stay.

Reviewed By Tanique Echardt- World Luxury Hotel Awards Executive Manager

To book this amazing property or look for more information click the website link below

Website

 

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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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2018 World Luxury Hotel Awards Winners Announced

10th November 2018, AYANA Resort & Spa, Bali, Indonesia was the venue of the prestigious black-tie event celebrating the 12th anniversary of the World Luxury Hotel Awards. Over 360 guests flew in from around the world to attend the event, which awarded the world’s finest hotels for their luxury offerings and exceptional service delivery.

Set across 90-hectares along Jimbaran’s golden mile, AYANA Resort and Spa, BALI, is a world-class destination resort. As the property approaches its 22nd birthday this November, the privately-owned resort holds more fame than ever. AYANA is recognized for prolific sunset and ocean views, as well as offering a choice of five-star accommodation and facilities, coupled with the genuinely warm Balinese hospitality that has put AYANA on the map. Over the years, AYANA has received many top-shelf accolades including Luxury Honeymoon Resort Global Winner for the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2017.

Participants from over 100 countries sipped on cocktails after being welcomed on the red carpet. During the cocktail’s guests enjoyed Jegog instrumental background music followed by Okokan and Kecak dancing. Jegog is a form of gamelan music indigenous to Bali, played on instruments made from bamboo, and the Kecak Dance is a form of Balinese Hindu dance and music drama that was developed in the 1930s, but that was not all as the guests where welcomed to the gala dinner by the Panyembrama Dance, which is a traditional Balinese welcome dance followed by Gus Teja who is a maestro of the flute.

After Prof. Dr. I Gede Pitana Msc. delivered his keynote speech, the incredibly entertaining Masters of Ceremonies, twins Maria and Elizabeth Rahajeng, who are TV hosts for E! News Asia guided the audience through a dazzling awards ceremony where awards were presented to luxury hotels and resorts in over 100 categories on a Country, Regional, Continent and Global basis. Special congratulations go to the inspirational Gaia Retreat & Spa, who received the 2018 Global Hotel of the Year Award. Founded in 2005, Gregg Cave, Ruth Kalnin, Olivia Newton-John and Warwick Evans, affectionately known as G.R.O.W, set out as a close-knit team to realise a shared dream, offering the highest of standards and service excellence, true to the World Luxury Hotel Awards overall winner criteria. Gregg Cave, Co-Owner and General Manager of Gaia Retreat & Spa proudly collected the award on stage.

Gaia Retreat & Spa- Australia
Mr Gregg Cave

The prestigious Chairman’s Award is the decision of the Owner and CEO of World Luxury Hotel Awards, Brandon Lourens. This year Imrhim Inad, Director of Sales, attended the ceremony and was privileged enough to collect the award on behalf of the Velaa Private Island Resort in Maldives. This boutique private hideaway can only be described as “beyond luxury”.

Mr Imrhim Inad of Velaa Private Island with France 24 representatives Odile Franc and Vishmi Congreve and Ceo Of WLHA Mr Brandon Lourens, Executive Manager Ms Tanique Echardt and Ms Michelle Snayman Brand and Event coordinator for the World Luxury Awards Brand.

Further Global awards went to Vacala Bay Resort in Fiji who received both Luxury Contemporary Villa and Eco/Green Villa Award; Lamaraz Arts Hotel in Algeria received the Luxury New Hotel Award; Valamar All you can Holiday in Croatia received Luxury Hotel Group Award; Tintswalo Atlantic in South Africa received Luxury Beach Lodge Award and Okinawa Spa Resort EXES in Japan received Luxury Honeymoon Hotel Award just to mention a few.
The much sort after World Luxury Hotel Awards trophy was presented to winners on stage. Thereafter, the proud winners were given an opportunity for one-on-one personalised video interviews to speak about their achievement with the media.

Okinawa Spa Resort EXES in Japan

There was not a dull moment as the diners were spoiled by AYANA Resorts Executive Chef, Patrick Callarec and his team, who wowed guests with Balinese inspired 6-course meal. The food was elegantly plated and paired with the finest of wines supplied by Bali Indah and Sababay. The room was in awe as the incredibly plated food was served all at once to the entire ballroom. The fact that the food was on par with any fine dining restaurant made it even more impressive.

UNIQUE Rooftop Bar & Restaurant was the venue for the after party where guests danced to the sounds of Martin Denev, the resident DJ from Rock Bar and were entertained by Sasha on vocals.

“We congratulate all our winners for the 2018 Award Year, who through their tireless efforts and endless passion to elevate their guests experience, have received this honour tonight. True luxury is not easily attained, it takes a team of highly efficient and dedicated staff willing to go the extra mile and stop at nothing to ensure that every guest feels cared for and no challenged not solved. This is the definition of luxury, this is what makes the winners shine at the World Luxury Hotel Awards event”. Says, Michael Hunter-Smith, Group Marketing Director for the World Luxury Hotel Awards.

“The 2019 World Luxury Hotel Awards will take place on Saturday, 12th October 2019 at Arctic Circle, Finland. The event will be hosted by Arctic TreeHouse Hotel and the gala venue SantaPark is an ideal location just before Christmas in the home town of Santa Claus. The magical Finnish Lapland is a bucket list experience and attendees can look forward to a winter wonderland, beautiful natural landscape wilderness, reindeer safaris, the phenomenon of the Northern lights, and of course Santa Claus” said Michael,“Applications to host the event in 2020 are now officially open”.

An event of this calibre would not be possible without our much-cherished sponsors France 24, Copenhagen Traveller, Caviar Spoon, Destination Golf, Santé Magazine, Singapore Brides and Spa & Wellness International who we thank for their continued support over the years. Thanks, is also extended to Bali Indah Beverindo, Captain Morgan, Coca Cola, Dewata Primi Lestari, Dolomia, Two Island Wine, Heineken Light, Kita Satu Bali, Strongbow, Global Seafood, Frizzante, Classic Fine Foods, Valrhona, Revolt and ABV Media Asia who were the sponsors here in Bali.

Please see our video of this prestigious event.

Everyone who attended the event was blown away by the professionalism of every person who works at AYANA Resort & Spa. Congratulations!

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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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Paris InterContinental Le Grand, a spectacular stay in the city of love and light…

This superbly renovated luxury hotel is at the heart of Parisian society. Opened in 1862, it defines historical grandeur, from Café de la Paix to La Verriere Restaurant, set in an 800 square metre winter garden.

Arriving at the InterContinental Paris Le Grand , I was taken aback by the sheer magnificence of the Hotel. It is an absolute jewel in the city of Light.

Fresh fruit and champagne in our room on arrival.

After a quick check in we were shown to our room where a bottle of champagne and fresh fruit awaited us. Our elegantly designed room overlooked the Paris Opera museum and I certainly spent some time simply enjoying the views over Paris. I love how the historic detail is still apparent in all the décor.

Our elegantly designed room

Breakfast at Café de la Paix was a phenomenal experience. The buffet breakfast was the largest I have ever experienced and sitting in the café with my fresh chocolate croissant I really did feel like a Parisian.

Cafe De Le Paix

Although I was only there for one evening, the service from every staff member from beginning to end was impeccable and I truly enjoyed my stay at this magnificent hotel.

Winter indoor garden.

I hope to return one day soon for a longer visit at this jewel of a hotel.

To view more click here

Reviewed By Tanique Echardt- Executive Manager World Luxury Hotel Awards

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Hotel Papadopoli Venezia – MGallery by Sofitel

Travelling to the city of Venice in Italy is an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. I suggest taking a private water taxi from the airport and entering the hotel via the water canals with style.  If you are lucky enough to enter Venice just before sunset, the experience will be even more romantic. Imagine sailing into a city filled with beautiful historic buildings, arched staircases and the suns’ reflection on the water streets. The water taxi takes you directly to the hotel entrance and kicks off your love affair with the city of Venice forever.

Arriving at Hotel Papadopoli Venezia – MGallery by Sofitel is an exciting experience. Once you enter the lobby of the hotel the glamour and elegance of this intimate boutique hotel is overwhelming. Close to the reception desk is a display case fill with shoes and handbags decorated with Swarovski crystals. The lounge is decorated with vintage furniture that includes throne chairs, carved giltwood tables and mirror frames, 18th century Italian style sofas as well as breathtaking chandeliers that provide just enough light to feel cozy and relaxed.

 

 

The stairway to the GIARDINO D’INVERNO (Winter Garden) restaurant is framed by two fashion mannequins, each dressed in a ball gown skirt and colorful ladies jacket. One soon discovers that the skirts actually consist of a tree and flower decoration. The beautiful artistry of this hotel is mesmerizing and the use of pastel colors is calming and poetic. Once you reach the Winter Garden one is transported to a scene from the magical Shakespearean play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

The hotel has 96 rooms and suites that are finished with furnishings reflecting the elegance and splendor of the 18th century, and views of the Tolentini Canal and Papadopoli Gardens. Each of the rooms are themed and I was fortunate to be accommodated in the Marco Polo room.

One of the special qualities of Hotel Papadopoli Venezia is the spectacular view the rooms provide.  I would suggest starting your day with breakfast on your balcony and a wonderful view of the city rooftops.

The location of the hotel is great and within walking distance of most of the tourist attractions. It is a real treat to explore the busy allies of Venice and stumble upon unique gift shops and restaurants. If you have a lot of luggage the hotel will organize you a city porter in no time to assist you with the heavy load.

Overall, I can recommend Hotel Papadopoli Venezia to any traveller visiting Venice. Personally, the comfortable stay and attentive service contributed to a wonderful experience and many cherished memories.

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

To view this hotel click here

To phone +39 041 710400

 

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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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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