AQUA EXPEDITIONS NEWSLETTER: SPRING 2023

The Galapagos, Peruvian Amazon, Indonesia’s Spice Islands, as well as Vietnam, and Cambodia … Aqua Expeditions is a leader in luxury small-ship expeditions taking travelers to the world’s most diverse and culturally significant destinations aboard deeply stylish yacht-like vessels. And while offboard excursions promise next-level thrills, the onboard delights offer further immersion through chef-led cooking masterclasses, cocktail demonstrations, and artwork sourced from female artisans in local villages. Here’s a preview of what’s to come for this season:

Where to Sail Next: Spice Islands

Aqua Blu is the first ever long-range ocean explorer yacht permanently based in East Indonesia, making it easy to explore the country’s wildest, most remote corners, including the mythical and relatively undiscovered Spice Islands (which can only be reached by boat). Still to this day the archipelago carries vestiges of its past, from its extensive fortifications and Dutch architecture to its well-preserved nutmeg plantations (the Spice Islands are the origin of the fragrant seed). Interestingly, The Spice Islands were once so valuable that the Dutch traded the British the island of Manhattan to secure tiny Banda Run, which is included on the itinerary. Other stops include Molana and Palau Run for picture-perfect sandy beaches and Banda Neira for twice-daily underwater dives or snorkeling excursions: the island’s historic ‘Fire Mountain’ volcanic eruption of 1988 led to the rebirth of coral and marina life, giving rise to spectacular underwater gardens. Rates start at $9,415 per person.

Savor at Sea: Chef Hosted Departures Return in 2024

Aqua Expeditions will offer three exclusive chef-hosted departures in 2024. In the Peruvian Amazon, renowned chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino—one of Peru’s most celebrated toques and a pioneer of the rainforest-to-table movement—will host two four-night sailings on Aqua Nera from May 14-18 and September 17-21.  Guests will enjoy an intimate dinner, ceviche-making masterclass, and a cocktail demonstration—all led by Schiaffino. Meanwhile, over in East Indonesia, Australian chef Benjamin Cross will host a seven-night sailing on Aqua Blu from August 10-17. Chef Cross began his career over 20 years ago at the award-winning Byron Bay boutique hotel and trained with some of Australia’s top chefs, including Neil Perry and Janni Kyritsis, before opening a string of restaurants in Bali, all of which rank among the island’s top dining destinations. On the weeklong sailing, he’ll host a cooking masterclass and kitchen tour to show guests how he crafts some of his signature recipes, which are inspired by East Indonesia’s spice routes and created specifically for Aqua Expeditions. The experience will culminate with an exclusive chef-hosted dinner spotlighting his creations. Rates start at $6,300 per person for the Amazon departures and $9,415 per person for the Indonesia departure.

An Emphasis on Artful Design

In recent years, expedition lines have been investing in onboard art collections, surrounding passengers with original pieces, sculptures, and ceramics to enrich the experience along the way. Aqua Expeditions’ CEO and Founder Francesco Galli Zugaro and his wife, Birgit, are passionate art-collectors. For as long as they’ve been traveling, they’ve been collecting one-of-a-kind artworks and rare objects, many of which, like a glass foosball table on Aqua Mekong, have found a new home on the brand’s luxurious vessels. Each of the ships has a distinctive design inspired by its destination. For example, Aqua Nera features works inspired by the black-water lagoons of the Peruvian Amazon, with dark-hued wooden décor and beautiful, rare pottery (originally used for formal ceremonies such as marriages) made by Amazonian communities. Aqua Mare takes its inspiration from the Galapagos Islands’ volcanic activity, with brilliant gold accents, ashy grays, coarse textures, and custom-made Panama hats for sale at the ship’s on-board boutique. Aqua Blu nods to its rich naval heritage (it was originally the HMS Beagle, a royal navy vessel that was used for cartography-related missions) with maritime-inspired pieces, including old maps from the 1800s that were made by Dutch cartographers. Rooms feature antique nut crackers sourced in Bali via an antiques dealer and friend of Birgit’s, and the on-site boutique is stocked with treasures like bespoke lacquer trays and scarves from a remote Indonesian island. Finally, Aqua Mekong borrows inspiration from the natural scenery of the Mekong Delta, with its lush greenery like lotus roots and lilies. The ship’s silk scarfs, silver bags and jewelry, and hand-woven and dyed kaftans—all available for sale at the boutique—are made exclusively for Aqua.

This emphasis on artful design trickles down to the onboard dining, too. All crockery has been commissioned exclusively for Aqua by the Bali-based Gaya Ceramics. Birgit first met the brand’s Italian owner at a French art exhibit, and after bonding over their love for ceramics, they decided to collaborate on a collection for Aqua Mekong. Now, there are Gaya ceramics on every Aqua ship—but with a local twist. For example, Aqua Blu has ceramics etched with drawings of English naturalist Alfred Wallace Russel and the wildlife he surveyed; Aqua Mare’s pieces are embellished with gold in a reference to the lava flows of the Galapagos and sketchings by Charles Darwin; and Aqua Mekong features designs of lotus roots and other native flora that were originally sketched by Birgit.  Other dining wares come from local communities, like the napkin rings on Aqua Nera and Aria Amazon made by female artisans out of natural fibers.

Rolling Down the (Mekong) River

Charting a luxurious passage on Southeast Asia’s longest river, the 20-stateroom Aqua Mekong travels at a speed of 6-7 knots, allowing for a beautifully slow-paced way of experiencing the waterway that spans Cambodia and Vietnam. One of the best times of year to make the journey is November through April— dry season—when blue skies and balmy temperatures guarantee smooth sailing.  A three-night Mekong Discovery voyage will either head upriver in Cambodia by exploring the Tonle Sap River, or downriver between Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh, while a four-night experience will sail upriver from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh, past floating villages and gilded pagodas, with twice-daily excursions on bike, kayak, and guided visits to riverside markets. For a deeper dive into the destination, the seven-night Mekong Expedition Cruise includes more time on the Cambodia stretch of the Mekong and along the Tonle Sap River—the only river in the world whose tide changes annually—which is untouched by tourists. Full charter rates start at $136,000 for 3 nights.

Ian Fleming’s GoldenEye Announces New Package in Celebration of 60 Years of James Bond

Ian Fleming’s GoldenEye Announces New Package in Celebration of 60 Years of James Bond

2022 marks the 60^th year of Bond—James Bond. What better place to celebrate than GoldenEye, the lush Jamaican hideaway where Ian Fleming wrote all fourteen 007 novels? Travelers who book a minimum four-night stay from September 28-December 19 will unlock 30 percent off accommodations, among other perks. Go to the source of Fleming’s literary inspiration by booking the five-bedroom villa that the author built and resided in as he penned classics like Casino Royale and Live and Let Die.

As a guest of GoldenEye, you’ll celebrate 60 years of Bond in killer style. A complimentary arrival cocktail will set the tone, followed by a bottle of Bollinger Champagne and a flask of Blackwell rum in the room. When you’re not lounging on the golden sounds or strolling the gardens where Fleming sought inspiration, enjoy complimentary use of the tennis court, non-motorized water sports, and the fitness course. Starting from $575 per night; booking is subject to availability, blackout dates apply (November 24-28, December 20-January 3, 2023); services and tax not included; valid for new bookings only, not combinable with other promotions.

The 60^th Anniversary package is one of GoldenEye’s many offers for this year. Others include License to Chill, an exclusive promotion that gives guests US$500 to put toward dining during five-night minimum stays. Booking is subject to availability; blackout dates apply (April 13-18, July 1-4, November 24-28, 2022); travel window: January 4, 2022 to December 19, 2022; Booking window: now to December 14, 2022.

There’s also the Hut Life offer, where you can reserve four nights for the price of three (or seven nights for the price of five) in a  Beach Hut—owner Chris Blackwell’s preferred accommodation—some of which have private verandas, outdoor showers, and claw foot tubs set amid lush gardens. Booking is subject to availability; blackout dates apply (April 13-18, July 1-4, November 24-28, 2022); Travel window: January 4, 2022 to December 19, 2022; Booking window: now to December 15, 2022; Valid in Beach Hut category.

To experience the diversity of Jamaica, consider the Two-Post Outpost package, which includes three-night minimum stays at both GoldenEye and Strawberry Hill, another property in the Island Outpost portfolio, set in the heart of Jamaica’s Blue Mountains. At GoldenEye, enjoy a guided coral reef snorkeling excursion and a rum and brown sugar scrub included. During the 2.5-hour drive to Strawberry Hill, you’ll motor through Jurassic Park-like scenery and steep roads with bends tighter than a hairpin, passing jerk shacks with names like “Pon di Road Nyammings” that cling tightly to the mountainside. Once you’ve arrived at the 12-room cottage hotel, unwind with a signature in-room spa treatment, complete with views over the city of Kingston and beyond. Minimum length of stay: 3 nights per property for Goldeneye & Strawberry Hill, 6 nights in total. Subject to blackout dates (April 13-18, July 1-4, November 24-28, 2022); Cannot be combined with any other promotion; Travel window: January 4, 2022 to December 19, 2022; Booking window: now to December 13, 2022

About GoldenEye

Once the Jamaica home of renowned author Ian Fleming, GoldenEye was developed by Island Records founder, Chris Blackwell, and opened as a resort in 2011.  GoldenEye is home to private beaches, secret coves, a seawater lagoon and The Fleming Villa (where all 14 James Bond books were written). There are four dining options (The Gazebo, Bizot Bar, Shabeen and the Bamboo Bar), a newly expanded FieldSpa and accommodations that include Beach and Lagoon Villas, Lagoon Cottages, Beach Huts and an ocean front villa. GoldenEye is located 20 minutes east of Ocho Rios. It’s 90-minutes by car from Montego Bay Airport and an eight-minute drive from Ian Fleming International (private aviation only).

5 Favorite Indulgent Accommodations Around the Globe

A room with a view is always nice. But the world’s most indulgent accommodations go beyond sweeping vistas to offer sumptuous interiors, next-level service, and a dash of the unexpected—from a romantic open-air treehouse in Kruger National Park to a butler-serviced private riad in Marrakech complete with lavish rooftop terrace and home cinema. Take a peek inside:

Grand Riad at Royal Mansour

A four-bedroom oasis spread across three floors, this “medina within a medina” offers palatial-style design, private butler service, and a terracotta roof terrace inlaid with mosaics and offering sweeping views of the Atlas Mountain. Interiors are a vision of stucco lace, heavy drapery, Murano chandeliers, and a riotous mix of colorful wallpaper and precious stones. The ground floor opens onto a private garden with a retractable roof, while a cast iron elevator whisks you to the floors above, where each of the bedrooms has dressing rooms and private bathrooms. Other spaces include a dining room with billiards, a library for artful lounging, a neoclassical-style dining room, and the roof terrace with a plunge pool, Bedouin tent, and hammam.

Private Reserve at Gili Lankanfushi

A Robinson Crusoe fantasy come to life, the Private Reserve at Gili Lankanfushi is the world’s largest overwater villa, stretching across the Indian Ocean in multi-level tiers. Guests spend their days lounging by the infinity-edge pool and in the overwater catamaran nets; working out in the air-conditioned gym; pampering themselves with treatments at the private couples’ spa (complete with a steam room and indoor/outdoor treatment rooms); and sliding down the top-deck waterslide into turquoise waters. By night, enjoy movie screenings at the private cinema, and retire in the guestrooms (of which there are two en suite master bedrooms and a guest suite), which have doors that open to the breathtaking scenery. Other perks of the Private Reserve include a fully-equipped kitchen and the option to curate your own wine selection from the 400-label cellar.

Ian Fleming Villa at GoldenEye

Situated within the GoldenEye resort, this villa is tucked away in a private garden, where it’s hidden by tall trees and tropical foliage. It’s here that acclaimed British novelist Ian Fleming wrote all 14 James Bond books, inspired by the lush scenery and the three-bedroom villa he designed to his own specifications. A dedicated butler is on hand to make your every wish a reality, while a chef can whip up Jamaican specialties and martinis (shaken, never stirred) to be enjoyed in outdoor settings like a sunken garden or on the private beach, where there’s a grill built into the side of a rocky cliff. Each of the villa’s three bedrooms has its own tropical garden area with a clawfoot tub and a garden shower, setting the scene for relaxation en plein air. There are also two private stand-alone one-bedroom cottages on site for larger groups or families.

Producer Suite at The Chatwal New York

Guests of the Producer Suite will feel they’ve traveled back in time to New York’s heyday. Designed by French architect Thierry Despont, the expansive suite harks back to the city’s Art Deco past with its bold colors, geometric shapes, and a spiral staircase that spans two floors, leading to a panoramic roof terrace with views spanning over west 44th street and Manhattan’s skyline. Stretch out on a lounger enjoying the vistas of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and order room service for the ultimate New York power lunch. Butler services ensures you won’t have to lift a finger.

andBeyond Ngala Treehouse

It’s impossible not to feel a sense of child-like wonder as you sleep under the stars at the Ngala Treehouse, surrounded by the wilds of Kruger National Park. The four-floor treehouse offers the ultimate thrill—of being one with nature—while drifting off to the sights and sounds of the forest, far from the distraction of civilization. Enjoy sundowner drinks and a starlit dinner picnic on the upper deck, then retire to the elevated sleep-out platform for sleeping outdoors under a retractable screen (there’s also a covered and weatherproof space should you want to move indoors). And just because you’re off the grid doesn’t mean you have to go without the conveniences of a hot shower or a flushing toilet. Talk about the best of both worlds!

PONANT AND SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS ANNOUNCE 2023 SMALL SHIP EXPEDITIONS 

New Itineraries will Feature Smithsonian-crafted Cultural Experiences Onboard and on Land

THIS VALENTINE’S DAY: Travel-Inspired Gifts and Nearby Experiences

This Valentine’s Day and beyond, all we need is love! For those who are looking for something a little extra special, our favorite travel-inspired gift options and nearby hotel experiences below are just the bow on top.

For Lovers of Craftsmanship:

The Fife Arms by an art world power duo, Iwan and Manuela Wirth, takes the ‘breakfast in bed’ gesture to the next level. For a thoughtful Scottish treat, Braemar Breakfast Small Gift Box contains a pair of the property’s famous egg scissors as well as two egg spoons carved from cow horn and a spurtle (traditional porridge-stirring implement) by McLean of Braemar, a local family-owned gift shop that was founded in 1968. Couples can also enjoy the artful property’s bone china jam dish, a caddy of Brodies 1867 Royal Scottish tea, tea towel featuring a Victorian illustration of the famous Gathering in Braemar, and a pot of Scottish heather honey. All is packed into a reusable gift box bearing the Fife Arms crest in gold. (£185)

While the online Shop offers myriad options for stylish design enthusiasts, another standout product is the new pewter and leather hip flask. The deep green bridle leather case with saddle stitch detail is hand crafted in Scotland by McRostie, a brand that has celebrated the finest British materials and provided exceptional leather craftsmanship since 1887. The case is embossed with The Fife Arms crest and motto – Ad Alta, ‘to the summit.’ (£165)

For Lovers of Art:

With 130 original pieces of colorful modern and pop art, White  Elephant  Palm  Beach is a museum in its own right. New this season, guests can enjoy  complimentary guided tours of the private collection that has been curated by the hotel’s owners as well as New York-based art consultant Emily Santangelo. The 30-minute experience is available at 10 a.m. on Saturdays. Guests will admire pieces by: a 10-year-old British artist who created 30 exclusive pieces for the powder rooms; Kenzo Okada, the first  Japanese-American  artist to receive international acclaim using abstract expressionist style; Yinka  Shonibare who has recently unveiled a new public sculpture installation in West Palm Beach; and more.

For Lovers of Tablescapes:

Shou Sugi Ban House in the Hamptons, blending fitness programs and spa treatments with wabi-sabi design accommodations, expands its wellness philosophy to tablescaping through a line of signature ceramics made exclusively for the property by New York-based ceramicist Stephanie Charlene. The collection includes 4.75” and 6” bowls, a 6.75” side plate, and a 10.5” dinner plate, all made from a groggy white stoneware and finished with a sandy white glaze. Prices start at $40 and gifts are available to purchase online at www.ssbhouse.myshopify.com or at the onsite shop in Water Mill, New York.

Now that we have put away our festive season table linens, a classic option is from Gayle Warwick’s Whitework collection in white, silver and gold. (£120). London-based designer has worked with the same embroiderers for two decades to create each and every piece.

For Lovers of Ocean Safari:

Todos Santos, 45 miles up the coast from Cabo San Lucas, is a year-round haven for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts. Winter, when temperatures are still around mid-60s, is the best time for whale watching, as Gray Whales arrive in January. The 60,000-pound mammals migrate 5,000 miles from the cold waters of Alaska’s Bering Sea to Baja Peninsula to give birth, the longest known mammal migration in the world. In Todos Santos it is common to see them perform an acrobatic jump or come straight out of the water like a periscope of a submarine. The 35-suite, experience-focused Paradero Todos Santos can arrange daily ocean safaris for up-close encounters. The property is an 80% landscape/20% construction project, situated by the Le Mesa farming community with more than a dozen family-owned farms. We recommend a rooftop suite, where a suspended ‘star net’ offers high-altitude views of the surrounding topography.

For Lovers of Fishing:

Located along the pristine, crescent-shaped Maundays Bay, Cap Juluca, a Belmond hotel in Anguilla, is a sanctuary for total escapism. Every room is beachfront, giving guests their very own slice of Caribbean Sea. A new experience for this winter season honors the island’s reverence of the sea. Guests can join third-generation Anguillan fisherman Shawn Romney to learn about the importance fishing for the local community. Using a traditional yo-yo reel, head over to the eastern point of Maundays Bay, a favorite local fishing spot for decades, and cast a line searching for a yellowtail snapper, blue runner, or parrotfish before taking the fresh catch back to the new Peruvian restaurant, UCHU, for a private ceviche lunch. The two-hour fishing experience is offered complimentary for up to four guests at a time, excluding the ceviche lunch.

For Lovers of History:

Did you know that according to the latest census, more than 31.5 million U.S. residents have claimed Irish ancestry? Fun fact: 23 U.S. presidents, including Joe Biden, are among this long list. The 16^th-century Dromoland Castle, located in the countryside of County Clare in western Ireland, helps previous and future guests with the love and curiosity for family history. This Valentine’s Day, couples interested in tracing their Irish roots can start with the property’s genealogy package. After filling out family history details, the in-house genealogist, Lorna Maloney, hosts a private  45-minute Zoom call before preparing and presenting the full results.

For Lovers of Music:

Rock and Roll Hall of Famer (2001) and the hotelier behind GoldenEye in Jamaica that has inspired the creation of James Bond, Chris Blackwell has recently launched Blackwell Rum Truffles. Created in partnership with Charbonnel et Walker, a London chocolatier established in 1875, each truffle has a velvety golden rum-filled center, wrapped with rich and silky dark chocolate, and topped with vermicelli chocolate sprinkles. Available to order on BlackwellRum.com and CharbonnelChocolates.com, each package of nine truffles is $28. An extra special treat can be found right under the box lid: an exclusive playlist, accessible via a QR code, that is curated by Chris Blackwell himself.

AM/PM NEWS from AMPR: Issue #3 2021

Welcome to the latest issue of AM/PM NEWS. We’re confident you’ve treated your moms to indulging treats earlier this month and have brilliant ideas for dads (friendly reminder: June 20 is father’s day). But how about self-gifting?! We shared some well-deserved, travel-inspired options for you – and your four-legged friends – that are only a click away. As travelers are looking to get their hands dirty and immerse in nature more than ever, we picked top foraging experiences from New England to Europe to Africa. We hear someone has a big birthday coming up: 245, that is. What better place to celebrate it from than Washington, D.C.?! Even though the Summer Olympics will look and feel different this year, we are inspired by all the athletes as well as a chef who knows a thing or two about an Olympian diet (hint: 6,000-seat Olympic Village cafeteria in Athens). There are so many city hotels we love, but for this issue, we highlighted three favorites that offer something a bit extra with their outdoor spaces.

TREAT YOURSELF:

The new exclusive dog collection from the Fife Arms in Scotland might convince everyone to own a dog. All made with the house tweed, created by Scottish textile designer Araminta Campbell, the selection includes a chic coat (£32.50), almost-too-pretty-to-chew bone (£12.50), and a wool and leather leash (£35). As a way to give back to the restaurant workers across Napa Valley, author Jess Lander and Feed Napa Now (a coalition feeding families across the region) have teamed up to create The Essential Napa Valley Cookbook ($39.95). If you love coffee as much as we do, try the sustainable custom blend by Nayara in Costa Rica, created in collaboration with master roaster Ken Palmer, who trained alongside Alfred Peet of Peet’s Coffee ($28 for 500g).

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE:

Even though it has gained Instagram-worthy attention in recent years, foraging was a way of life for our ancestors. Going back to basics require expertise, so consider: Dromoland Castle in Ireland for a hands-on lesson in harvesting seaweed; distill essential oils with a medical nutrologist at UXUA in Trancoso; explore the Scottish Highlands with Fife Arms’ in-house forager for plants that can be transformed into teas; turn to andBeyond’s guides on the Masai Mara for wild flora that will do wonders for a toothache; or learn how to shock an oyster in Nantucket, where Retsyo Oysters are cultivated just 300 yards away from The Wauwinet hotel on the northeast shore.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA:

When America celebrates its 245^th birthday this July, the capital has myriad options for history buffs and curious minds alike of all ages. Check out the recently-renovated Martin Luther King, Jr. Library as well as the 4700-piece, 100-year-old Phillips Collection. Where to Stay? The Dupont Circle, where interior architect Martin Brudnizki and Irish designer Clodagh are behind the new look, offers hand-picked ‘Slice of the City’ experiences that range from “24 Hours In” to special exhibitions. For an Instagram-dream, outdoor cocktail indulgence, check out Doyle Bar’s new terrace instillation by The House of Suntory. One of our favorites from the special cocktail menu by the famed Japanese spirits brand is ‘ice cream parlor’ with Haku vodka, passion fruit and Morenko’s honey lavender ice cream.

GOLD MEDAL GOES TO:

Kalesma is the newest opening in Mykonos. The suite and villa property, where each accommodation has unobstructed views of the Aegean Sea, is the only hotel in the world with Rick Owens furniture, welcoming guests at the lobby. In addition to the bread oven, giving a nod to more than 70 types of bread in Greece, Chef Costa Tsingas, former executive chef in charge of Greek food at the Olympic village for the Athens Olympics, focuses on extremely traditional raw materials and cooking techniques for light and ingredient-centered dishes. His pantry essentials include oregano, gigantes (beans), honey, yogurt, stafides (raisins and currants), krokos (saffron), ambelofila (grape leaves), phyllo, kefalotyri, manouri and feta cheese, and of course, olive oil and olives. The hotel’s wine collection has some rare options, including Pure Santorini 2014 and Thalassitis vythismenos Gaia 2015.

CITY HOTELS WE LOVE:

Wellness Travel

After a year of feeling powerless when it comes to our physical health and wellbeing, many of us have begun to look inward to what we can control. While experts warn of a ‘mental health pandemic’ on the rise, solutions have become more innovative than ever. From mindfulness apps like Calm and Headspace to fermentation classes to at-home fitness apps to virtual breathwork practices, the term ‘wellness’ has evolved tremendously in the past year – and for many, has become a daily priority. According to the Global Wellness Summit’s 2021 Wellness Trend Report, immune health will remain a hot topic in 2021. Instead of the fast fixes of immunity-boosting supplements, the report shares that immune-balancing is best done with an all-encompassing approach through the core pillars of wellness: exercise, diet and sleep. Global luxury travel network Virtuoso is similarly seeing strong interest in wellness as travelers begin booking trips for 2021 and beyond.

It’s no secret that travel is good for the soul. Exploring new places and experiencing new cultures alone can provide a strong mental health boost – which in turn offers physical benefits. The following travel companies have taken a deeper approach to providing their guests with that sense of wellbeing that many of us are craving. Read on for travel experiences that embrace wellbeing through nature, meditation, nourishment, skincare and sleep.

Wellbeing through NATURE

HAMPTONS: Shou Sugi Ban House, the Hampton’s first destination spa and wellness retreat, is hosting a Nature Immersion retreat April 2-4 that will include forest bathing as well as a nighttime experience where guests can immerse themselves in the natural rhythm of the moonlight. Also on offer is a new Digital Detox that invites guests to redirect attention away from their devices and back to the present moment. Itineraries will feature intention setting, self-guided meditation, journal prompts, nature walks, and morning and nighttime routines which will help participants integrate healthy and mindful practices into their day. Looking ahead, this summer, the six-day Ocean Immersion will include daily surf lessons as well as beach meditation.

Images courtesy of Fredrika Stjarne for Shou Sugi Ban House

BAJA: Paradero Todos Santos opened on February 1, 2021. Todos Santos is a year-round haven for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts – a setting where the desert, mountains, ocean and farmland collide. Surfing at Cerritos or San Pedrito beach, guided hiking and mountain biking along the bluffs of the Pacific coast, beach set up at unspoiled locations, and hands-on farming tutorials are all included in the nightly rate. Embracing the wild terrain, Paradero is an 80 percent landscape, 20 percent development project. The 100,000-square-foot botanical garden is the focus of the property (there are 80 endemic species – from red sand verbena and Mojave yucca to Shaw’s agave). More than 30 percent of the flora was grown from seed in the on-site greenhouse, while the remainder was purchased from local greenhouses.

NAPA VALLEY: Napa Valley may seem like wall-to-wall vineyards, but only nine percent of the Valley is covered in vines. The region is flanked by two mountain ranges, Mayacama and Vaca Mountains, laced with hiking, biking and running trails (with more than 53,000 acres preserved by the Napa Valley Land Trust). The region is also rooted in wellness history. Since the 1800s, visitors have sought rejuvenation in the mineral-rich waters of Calistoga’s volcanic hot springs and natural volcanic ash. Napa Valley’s first Four Seasons Resort & Residences will open in Calistoga later this year; the spa will feature steam pods in which hammocks will be suspended above geo-thermal pools for guests to absorb the heated vapor. Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs, originally built in 1952 and considered one of the first resorts in Calistoga, will unveil a large-scale renovation this month with new outdoor cabana treatment rooms.

Images courtesy of Visit Napa Valley

JAMAICA: A visit to Jamaica’s Blue Mountains, located 3,100-feet above sea level, will offer an unexpected island experience. There’s no beach or blazing sun, instead visitors can expect hiking trails, music history and meticulously roasted coffee beans. Strawberry Hill, which appears to be floating among the clouds in the heart of the mountains, is owned by Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Chris Blackwell. The property offers curated wellness treks, including a hike to an altitude of 4,000-feet before reaching the family-run Old Tavern Coffee Estate for a brew tasting; or a walk on Settlement Trail, where travelers will encounter Jurassic Park-like greenery with more than 550 species of trees and flowers.

Images courtesy of Island Outpost

Wellbeing through NOURISHMENT

CAPE TOWN: Understanding where our food comes from and what we put in our bodies is the root of health and wellness for many. In Cape Town, Chef Rudi Liebenberg at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town is known for his rotating five-course Wasted! tasting that features re-imagined scraps and byproducts of fruits, vegetables and meats. Hosted at the Chef’s Table, guests will be able to watch as ginger trimmings and buchu become cordials while trout trimmings are transformed into tartare and tempura.

HAMPTONS: Shou Sugi Ban House will host a culinary retreat on April 23-25 led by Noma co-founder Mads Refslund. Mads oversees the culinary program at the property, where the philosophy is born from the belief that true health is grounded in nature and food is medicine. The weekend begins with a session on Spring Cleaning for the Liver led by the House’s resident nutritionist followed by a four-course dinner by Mads before guests return to their private guest studios for a seasonal soak. Other highlights from the itinerary include an Afternoon Tea Tasting, Shamanic Release, Herb Garden Mocktails, and a workshop on “nose-to-tail eating” where guests will learn about why the concept is not just food for the planet but also good the body.

Images courtesy of Fredrika Stjarne for Shou Sugi Ban House

Wellbeing through MEDITATION

NAMIBIA: andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge reopened in the Namib Desert in October 2019 after a top-to-bottom rebuild. Travelers can truly to connect to their soul in the utter silence of this desert; andBeyond has trails set up for guests to take non-guided strolls and meditative walks – completely alone – through the towering sand dunes (some up to 1,000 feet tall). The incredible surrounds – so silent you can hear your own heart beating – lend itself to another level of “wellness”. Wifi at the property is purposely spotty to encourage guests to devote their attention to the desert.

Images courtesy of andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

NAPA VALLEY: Solage Calistoga is a contemporary oasis with a spa that offers a floating guided meditation treatment in which a guest sits in a mesh hammock, partially submerged in the open-air geothermal mineral pool (96 to 98 degrees). Guests can book the specific ‘Starlight at the Bathhouse’ treatment for a private after-hours experience available between 8:30-10:30pm. Guests will experience the floating meditation while gazing at the stars and moon, before heading off to bed more centered and relaxed.

Images courtesy of Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection

HAMPTONS: Shou Sugi Ban House’s Intuitive Movement and Resident Healing Arts Practitioner Christiana Schelfhout leads breathwork classes at the wellness retreat. As a holistic health guide, she allows people to claim radical responsibility for their own evolution and reminds them of their innate ability to heal themselves. Christiana’s dedicated breathwork sessions use specific postures to aid digestion, regulate hormones and restore the nervous system. Pranayama breathing balances the subtle energies and revitalizes the lungs. Classes are designed to release negative emotions, stagnant energy and physical blocks that are often inaccessible to our logical minds.

Images courtesy of Fredrika Stjarne for Shou Sugi Ban House

COSTA RICA: The newly opened Nayara Tented Camp, set deep in the rainforest on the edge of the Arenal Volcano, offers travelers an escape from reality into nature. Guests can find wellness of the mind and body with evening meditation classes by candlelight in the yoga pavilion cantilevered over the rainforest. The soundtrack (chirping tree frogs and a babbling stream below) sets the audio scene for low-impact poses designed to relax the body in preparation for sleep.

Images courtesy of Nayara Tented Camp

Wellbeing through SKINCARE

EVERYWHERE: Tried-and-trusted French skincare brand, Guinot, has launched a new Lift Summum Serum for a firmer and smoother facial complexion. This light but powerful product is an easy step to add to any skincare routine, bringing energy and youth to the skin. With age, skin loses its tone, softness and supple appearance. Key ingredients like Alaria Esculenta Seaweed Extract and Hyaluronic Acid create a more defined, luminous and resilient complexion.

Image courtesy of Guinot

MARRAKECH: Royal Mansour Marrakech is rolling out new wellness programming this spring,marking a new era for the palatial estate as a destination spa and wellness retreat. Guests can now enjoy Intraceutical facials – the brand known for revolutionizing the oxygen facial and a favorite among celebrities including Olivia Colman, Madonna and Juliann Moore. The hotel is also partnering with the organic aromatherapy brand Subtle Energies and Dr. Burgener Switzerland, an expert in high-tech skin advancements. All-inclusive, multi-day retreats (three-, five-, seven- or 14-day programs) will also be available beginning in September for immersive wellness journeys with the goal of improving mental and physical health.

Images courtesy of Royal Mansour

COTE D’AZUR: Nestled within a Mediterranean jardin overlooking the Cote d’Azur is the cliffside retreat La Réserve Ramatuelle. The Palace hotel will reopen this May, lifting the veil on a refreshed lobby, two Michelin-starred restaurants, and terrace with panoramic views of the sea. Guests can participate in Nescens Better Aging Programs. Programs begin with a check-up on the first day where guests meet with a team of doctors and specialists. With the help of these professionals, participants will understand their own bio-individuality of aging from a genetic, dietary and psychological standpoint before receiving a personalized 4- or 7-day itinerary. The program is tailored to individual goals, incorporating three daily meals, exercise and spa treatments.

Images courtesy of La Reserve Ramatuelle

TRANCOSO: UXUA VIDA Spa and wellness program at UXUA Casa Hotel and Spa sources local ingredients for the treatment products from fruits, flowers, roots, and clay. In light of Covid-19, UXUA VIDA recently launched ‘self-treatments’ where therapists provide private treatment suites (or set up spaces in a guest’s own private casa) and educate guests on how to use and apply the freshly-made Vida Lab spa products themselves – ideally with a partner or a family member – for their own private wellness experience.

Images courtesy of UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa

Wellbeing through SLEEP

LONDON: The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London has announced a partnership with Harley Street hypnotherapist and sleep expert Malminder Gill to launch when the hotel reopens this spring. The Sleep Concierge will be a new service exclusive to Belmond guests including a meditative recording by Malminder available via the Belmond app, a pillow menu offering the perfect fit for every type of sleeper, the option of a weighted blanket, a scented pillow mist and a new bedtime tea service. For a more personalized experience, guests can book a private one-on-one session with Malminder.

Images courtesy of The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London

TOKYO: Park Hyatt Tokyo’s Club On The Park spa has sweeping views of the city. The Good Night Sleep Stretch, a complimentary 30-minute program, is designed to prepare the body for restful sleep. It consists of slow stretches and breathing exercises to loosen muscles and bring the body into equilibrium. Oils designed to promote circulation, help digestion, and relieve stress scent the air, and an herbal tea concludes the experience.

Images courtesy of Park Hyatt Tokyo

SCOTLAND: Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland has partnered with British spa brand Bamford Haybarn Spa to offer soothing treatments as the train rolls through the Scottish countryside. Royal Scotsman offers a ‘b-Silent’ treatment designed to relax the body and prepare guests for a sound, restful night. The treatment utilizes the brand’s b Silent product collection beginning with a footbath followed by a full-body massage with the b Silent body oil. The massage targets pressure points on the neck and chest to release chronic stress, which is one of the main causes of depleted serotonin and affects the ability to sleep well.

Images courtesy of Belmond

NAPA VALLEY: Travelers can unwind at Bardessono Resort & Spa with the in-room Peaceful Sleep treatment with an essential oil bath, a calming body butter, and a warmed herbal pillow in their beds with the smell of an aromatic candle to lull them to sleep.

Images courtesy of Bardessono

Passion-led family travels

For summer of 2021 and beyond, travel is poised for a comeback and we foresee family vacations topping the list. Here are ideas to quench any family’s wanderlust, from avid astronomers to city slickers…

For the astronomer family

• Todos Santos in Baja, Mexico, is a prime spot for stargazing due to its minimal light pollution and dry clean air. Each of the rooftop suites at the new Paradero Todos Santos comes with its own telescope to take in the evening’s bounty of stars, galaxies and planets that sparkle across the desert sky.

• On the open-air observation deck at Nayara Alto Atacama, guests check out the most important constellations for the people of the Atacama: the Yacana Llama that runs along the Great River (Milky Way) and the Chacana Cross (Inca Cross) which points to the south. The Atacama Desert’s famously arid atmosphere makes it ideal for stargazing.

• andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in Namibia’s Namib Desert abuts a dark sky reserve and has an astronomer on staff to guide guests’ stargazing experiences. Plus, the above-bed sky lights are perfect for spotting shooting stars while drifting off to sleep.

For the birding family

• While most head to Jamaica for its white sandy beaches, birders should note it’s an avian playground with over 300 species. Specifically, the Blue Mountains, set 3,100 feet above sea level, are laced with a network of trails for birdwatching among the Jurassic Park-like landscape. Strawberry Hill’s onsite bird expert, Lyndalee Burks, arranges adventures with knowledgeable local guides – think sunrise and sunset treks to see the rare Crested Quail-Dove or Jamaican blackbird.

• With a plethora of birds to check off a list (over 500 species in the area), Nayara Tented Camp’s private naturalist guides can lead family’s on daily birding walks to spot toucans, red-lored parrots, green herons, and ruby throated hummingbirds. Tents can comfortably fit two adults and up to two children, plus there are adjoining tents for bigger groups and older kids.
• All guests at andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve all receive a Star Birds guide to spot the over 400 bird species inhabiting Phinda’s diverse habitats, but passionate birders can book a Birding Safari. One of andBeyond’s guides leads guests on a special game drive to see Rudd’s Apalis, Neergard’s Sunbirds, and Narina Trogons. Phinda Homestead – a stand-alone lodge with four bedrooms – is the perfect private spot for a family.

For the beach bum family

• Families looking for some blue skies and warm sand can make Belmond Cap Juluca in Anguilla their home-away-from-home. For the utmost privacy, families can book a three-, four-, or five-bedroom private pool villa to experience optimal seclusion. Highlights include a full kitchen with a dining atrium for private meals, direct beach access, and a personal freshwater swimming pool. Those who just aren’t ready to leave can stay a month or longer and the property will cover weekly spa treatments, unlimited laundry, daily resort credit, and a dedicated host.
• Jamaica’s GoldenEye, once home to Ian Fleming and the site where he penned all 14 James Bond novels, offers a collection of stand-alone hut, cottage and villa accommodations. Kids can partake in coconut carving and nature walks led by Ramsey DaCosta, Fleming’s former gardener, while adults enjoy cocktails at Firefly, Noel Coward’s hilltop estate and rumored to have been Captain Morgan’s lookout. Mark the occasion by planting a tree on property with a donation to the hotel’s Oracabessa Foundation, which supports the community through a variety of health- and environmentally- focused initiatives.

• Off the coast of Zanzibar, andBeyond Mnemba Island is a private island paradise worthy of screen saver. Families can lounge on the beach in their private beach cabanas, go snorkeling or scuba diving with the local dolphins, take a sunset dhow sailboat ride, or take a day trip to Stone Town and learn about the spice trading history of Zanzibar. The thatched-roof bandas have no doors or windows, just woven shades, creating a true Robinson Crusoe feel.
• UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa sits on the grassy quadrado (town square) of Trancoso, Brazil. This small town has long attracted artisans and those in the know – Anderson Cooper has a house at UXUA and Solange Knowles honeymooned at the property. Their cool beach bar and quartz-lined pool are supreme lounge spots, and more active family members can try their hands at capoeira – the Brazilian martial art – or meet with Dr. Julian at the UXUA Vida Spa to learn about herbal remedies.

For the history buff family

• Dromoland Castle was built in the 16^th century and has a rich history – from starting as the royal seat of the last kings of Ireland to a Temple of Mercury dedicated to a beloved racehorse who saved the family from financial ruin. Families can try the ancient sport of falconry, golf on the 18-hole golf course, try cocktail making or go foraging with a local guide.
• The magic of Greek mythology still envelopes the Cycladic isles. Mykonos was the home of Aeolus, keeper of the wind. Families can stay in one of the two villas at the soon-to-open Kalesma and catch the sunset over Delos, the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo.
• Washington, D.C. is awash with American history. The Dupont Circle hotel is surrounded by embassies (former gilded age mansions of the city’s elite) and a 20-minute stroll to the national mall and its monuments. The Penthouse Suite can be booked as a two bedroom and with its sprawling terrace, living room, and dining area it creates a luxurious home-away-from-home.

For outdoorsy families

• The Chatwal Lodge, scheduled to open on May 1, is nestled within a 30-acre environmentally protected land in the Catskill region. Guests will enjoy panoramic views of the 1,000-acre Toronto Reservoir Lake, ideal for year-round fly fishing; have access to hiking trails dotted with chestnut trees and water streams; and admire myriad native animals, such as white-tailed deer and nesting bald eagles. Adventurers at heart can opt for a treehouse, raised 25 feet above the ground, or a luxury glam tent.
• PONANT, the leader in expedition cruising, takes guests to remote destinations not accessible to larger ships thanks to its moderate size, design and advanced technology. Lead by naturalist guides and experts, expeditions can opt to take time to watch a caving glacier, make a detour to discover a southern white whale, or go ashore to admire a colony of penguins. New this year, PONANT will launch Le Commandant Charcot, a luxury hybrid polar exploration vessel, that will allow adventurous families to reach the true Geographic North Pole and parts of Antarctica that fewer people have stepped foot on the moon.
• With over 300 days of sunshine, Zermatt is definitely a pick for the outdoorsmen. While you can ski 365 days a year in the alpine town, there is plenty to do beyond hitting the slopes, including hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, and fly fishing. The iconic Schweizerhof hotel is located on the main thoroughfare of Bahnhofstrasse at the base of the Matterhorn and recently underwent an extensive renovation.
• Believe it or not, California’s wine country is not just all about wine. Families looking for a breath of fresh air can head to Napa Valley and explore the 53,000 acres of preserved land laced with hiking and biking trails through the mountains. Kids can join parents to explore the di Rosa outdoor sculpture park, or visit with miniature horses – Whinnie the Pooh, Sweet Jane, and Molly – at Jamieson Ranch Vineyard while parents enjoy a vino tasting. Families can opt to stay at Calistoga Motor Lodge – a roadside 1940′s motel in its past life – which evokes a retro-camping feel with rooms designed to mimic a 1960s VW camper. As an ode to its roots, the property offers throwback in-room amenities such as Polaroid cameras and Etch-a-Sketches that kids will love.

For city slicker families

• Tokyo is the ultimate destination for city lovers – its towering skyline, famously busting crosswalks, jewel box bars, and mix of modern and ancient culture are hypnotic. Park Hyatt Tokyo sits above the city and offers families a haven above the metropolis, especially with older kids. The concierge can book restaurant reservation at in-the-know-only spots and recommend fun stops like Kawaii Monster Café with its rainbow confections, and the whole family can wind down at the hotel with the twice weekly goodnight sleep stretch.

• London has something for everyone in the family from shopping to museum hopping to tasting global cuisines. Centrally located in Mayfair, The Beaumont is the perfect home base to explore all the Big Smoke has to offer. A destination unto itself, the hotel is home to Turner Prize-winning artist Antony Gormley’s inhabitable sculpture called ROOM. Families can even book the entire fifth floor for up to 10 people, with perks including a stocked pantry kitchen, large dining terrace and private elevator access.
• While Paris is known for romance, it’s surprisingly family-friendly, offering myriad parks and museums, not to mention the food – who doesn’t love croissants and baguettes? Overlooking the Trocadero and with unbeatable views of the Eiffel Tower are the 10 La Réserve Paris Apartments. The largest apartment can accommodate up to 10 people, but families could reserve multiple flats for larger groups. The neighborhood is also home to the Bois du Boulogne, the 2,000+ acre forest full of hiking trails and ponds, the Jardin d’Acclimation amusement park and the Fondation Louis Vuitton.

top hotel accommodations around the world

From an experiential work of art in London to the nearly 20,000-square-foot hotel-within-a-hotel in Marrakech, these top suites, villas and standalone accommodations offer the best in amenities, design and privacy around the world.

TOP SUITES

A one-bedroom sculpture, a baby grand piano, the former residence of the last High King of Ireland – there is no stone left unturned in these top suites.

ROOM at The Beaumont

The Beaumont in London is home to Turner Prize-winner Antony Gormley’s inhabitable sculpture called ROOM. Designed as an experiential work of art, the exterior takes the shape of a three-story crouching man made of stainless-steel – an answer to the City of Westminster’s requirement that new buildings contain public art. The one-bedroom suite is a dark space entirely clad in fumed-oak, featuring only a single, all-white bed and can be taken to pitch black darkness and silence at the flip of a switch. The heavily insulated walls create an extremely quiet inside, free from the sounds of the city, and there is a window high up where guests can see the night sky but no surrounding buildings as Gormley wanted views to be unencumbered. There is nothing in the room other than the bed – no TV, minibar, artwork or telephone – so there are no distractions.

Tokyo Suite at Park Hyatt Tokyo

50 floors above Tokyo’s restless streets, Park Hyatt Tokyo’s residence-like Tokyo Suite has floor-to-ceiling views of the city’s skyline from almost every room, with Japan’s highest mountain, Mt. Fuji, peaking up in the distance. Decorated with the aura of a private apartment, this 2,368-square-foot accommodation is adorned with a Miao headdress and washi lanterns by Isamu Noguchi, designer and creator of The Noguchi Museum in New York. From the baby grand piano in the living room to the library collection of 1,000 books on the arts, this suite is a quiet and comfortable escape from bustle below.

Eden Suite at La Réserve Eden au Lac

Located on the third floor of La Réserve Eden au Lac, the Eden Suite debuted earlier this year as part of two-year restoration project helmed by Philippe Starck. The Eden Suite features glass walls separating the living area from the bathroom with natural light pouring in from the large windows and four balconies with charming ironwork. As the only luxury hotel on Lac Zurich, the suite offers sweeping views to allow guests to admire the boats and the Alps in the distance. Taking inspiration from the location, Starck wanted to give guests the feeling of being on a yacht. He lent his signature contemporary touch with neutral tones and sleek metal accents, while honoring the building’s historical elements. Quirky nautical touches include wooden oars, paintings of sailboats and room numbers printed as if they were on a racing sail.

Brian Boru Suite at Dromoland Castle

Named for one of the last High Kings of Ireland and member of the O’Brien family who founded the Castle in the 16^th century, the Brian Boru Suite at Dromoland Castle has a bedroom and sitting room overlooking the property’s lake. The bedroom’s canopy bed, sparkling chandelier, and separate dressing room evoke the Castle’s royal heritage, activities like falconry and pony and trap rides celebrate its history and the 18-hole golf course with a flood-lit driving range embrace modern technology.

TOP STANDALONE ACCOMMODATIONS

For those looking for extra privacy and added space, these standalone accommodations – villas, casas and riads – offer private entrances, plenty of outdoor space and even their own dedicated staff.

Grand Riad at Royal Mansour

Of Royal Mansour’s 53 individual three-story accommodations, the four-bedroom Grand Riad is the undisputed crown jewel. Referred to as the “hotel within the hotel,” the nearly 20,000-square-foot residence features a private library, two swimming pools with built-in water current, a cinema, hammam, gym, multiple dining and living rooms, and a glass-enclosed split-level terrace with a retractable roof. With a private resort entrance, the Grand Riad feels more like a private home than a hotel. No detail is overlooked thanks in large part to a dedicated staff that includes a chef, watchman, housekeepers, and butlers.

Casa do Lago at UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa

UXUA just launched a new casa, Casa do Lago, where not a single tree was cut to create the new accommodation. The house reimagines an old fisherman home and its colonial Brazilian style with reclaimed materials, such as wood sourced from an abandoned plantation, and a modern eye. Wilbert Das, founder of UXUA and former creative director of Diesel, filled the casa with Brazilian art, antiques, and custom pieces from the UXUA DAS furniture collection. The defining feature of this casa is a lake surrounded by rainforest and preserved with modern technology to be sustainable and healthy. The mineral-rich water is home to rare fish species and is a perfect place to swim. The casa is just a short walk from the historic Quadrado of Trancoso but feels like its own tropical universe, celebrating indoor/outdoor living.

Stella Maris at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

Out of the 121 villas, Stella Maris is a standout option at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi – accessible only by traditional dhoni boat. The nearly 6,000-square-feet duplex accommodation features an infinity pool, overwater hammocks with direct access to the ocean, and a BBQ station that is available for private chef service. The ‘smart villa’ (with every light, aircon, and curtain controlled from one central iPad) is stocked with still and sparkling water produced at the property’s onsite bottling plant. Laid-back island style is juxtaposed with modern design elements – from a sleek spiral staircase to a bathroom decked out in black-and-white stripes from head to toe. With an ambiance inspired by the Maldivian night sky, the layout offers stargazing opportunities from various points around the villa, allowing guests to spot both northern and southern hemisphere constellations from a different spot every night.

Fleming Villa at GoldenEye

Channel Ian Fleming in celebration of the 25th James Bond movie, No Time to Die, in the aptly named, five-bedroom Fleming Villa at GoldenEye in Jamaica, where he penned all 14 James Bond novels. Today, his writing desk still remains. The main bedroom looks onto his sunken garden, where he entertained the likes of Kathryn Hepburn and Prime Minister Sir Anthony Eden. Guests have access to his private beach and can snorkel in his beloved reef. The grounds also feature a private screening room in what was Fleming’s former garage.

andBeyond Ngala Treehouse at andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge and andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp

Three miles away from the nearest lodge and 39 feet in the air is the new andBeyond Ngala Treehouse. The completely private, four-level accommodation – surrounded by nothing but the South African bush – opened in February 2020 as a new accommodation at andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge and andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp. Fully solar-powered, the treehouse has a rooftop deck with an outdoor bed and lounge for al fresco sundowners and dinner for two, an indoor bedroom, and a full bathroom with an outdoor shower – all with uninterrupted views of the bush below. Couples pack up just what they need for the night and are escorted on a game drive to the treehouse for an unforgettable sleepover, complete with a stocked bar and jars of midnight snacks. Surrounded by a thorn boma fence and just a phone call away from the dedicated treehouse attendant, travelers can feel safe in this otherwise intimidating setting.

Palazzo Vendramin at Belmond Hotel Cipriani

Separated from the main hotel by an ancient courtyard and flowered walkway, Belmond Hotel Cipriani’s Palazzo Vendramin is housed in a 15th-century former palace with views overlooking Venice’s St. Mark’s Square. When booking the new Exclusive Places offer, the 16-room-and-suite palace offers complete seclusion for groups with a separate entrance and private dock along with 24-hour concierge service and daily a la carte breakfast. The top suite, the Dogressa Suite, offers views over both St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace via floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the sitting room. Build out a fulsome itinerary with private experiences including a sailing aboard Belmond’s Edipo Re, a meticulously restored, 16-meter vintage 1960s sailboat to explore the lagoon; or a mixology masterclass with beloved head barman Walter Bolzonella.

COMING SOON!

We’re looking ahead to exciting debuts in 2020 including the largest penthouse suite in Washington D.C. overseen by Clodagh as well as a new boutique hotel in Palm Beach with a private 1,200-square-foot rooftop terrace.

Penthouse Suite at The Dupont Circle

The pièce de resistance of the largescale, top-to-bottom renovation at The Dupont Circle hotel in Washington, DC is the Penthouse Suite, designed by Clodagh. Debuting this month, it can be booked two ways: as a one-bedroom or two-bedroom. When expanded into two-bedrooms, the suite is one of the largest in the city at 1,980 square feet. The heated outdoor terrace, which overlooks Dupont Circle and has views of the Washington Monument, also adds an additional 590 square feet. For the ultimate private experience: guests can also book the entire penthouse floor with its 12 suites and private elevator. Many also featured heated terraces, and all have been completely redesigned by Bernie Gallagher, the Chairman of the Doyle Collection who is very invested in the design of each property, imbuing them all with a unique sense of style and place.

Park Suite at White Elephant Palm Beach

White Elephant Palm Beach, sister hotel to the White Elephant on Nantucket, will open on November 4, 2020 with 32 rooms and suites. Ideal for friends and multi-generational families, the 3,000-square-foot penthouse Park Suite is a three-bedroom that can be expanded into four, complete with a fully equipped kitchen and spacious living room. With views of Bradley Park, the penthouse includes a 1,200-square-foot rooftop terrace for entertaining. Other decorative accents such as bronze elephant door knockers, bold patterned throw pillows, rattan ceiling light fixtures, and black and white striped side tables are sprinkled throughout.

private pools at hotels around the world

Hotels with Stunning Views, Even from the (Private) Swimming Pools

Spotting wildlife, gazing at constellations, sipping chilled rosé, cooling off from the desert heat – these are all activities best enjoyed from a plunge pool. A private place to take a dip is a deal-breaking amenity for many when hitting ‘book,’ especially heading into this new world of travel. In fact, luxury travel advisor network, Virtuoso, says that it’s been one of the most requested in-room features from their clients in recent months.

Here are our favorite places around the world to float.

Views of Ocean

Maldives: For those looking to travel as far away from home as possible (we don’t blame you!) Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi awaits. The property opened on July 1, 2019 as the first luxury resort near the capital city of Malé in the last decade – making for a quick and seamless yacht ride from the airport anytime, day or night. Every single villa on the island – whether on the beach, reef, or stilted over the ocean – is equipped with a private infinity pool, dining gazebo, and an outdoor deck with a swinging daybed. Guests staying in a Stella Maris overwater villa can take a traditional dhoni boat straight to their pool and spend the night gazing at both southern and northern hemispheres stars.

Anguilla: Situated in a secluded are of the newly-renovated resort, the multi-story Beachfront Pool Villas at Belmond Cap Juluca have private swimming pools just steps away from the white sands of Maundays Bay. Guests can sway to a private, in-villa reggae concert from the comfort of their own pool float.

St. Barth: New four-bedroom villas at The Christopher, designed by Olivia Putman (daughter of Andrée Putman) blur the boundaries between inside and out and use a mix of natural materials including bamboo, sandstone and volcanic stone, accented with pops of the hotel’s signature orange. With large decks and private pools, they meld the privacy of a villa rental with the comforts of a hotel.

Mykonos: Once home to Greek gods and a favorite destination of Jackie Kennedy as well as artists, poets, designers and actors, Mykonos has long been in the spotlight. But the whole story of the island is rarely told. Enter Kalesma, opening in Spring 2021. Set on a hilltop above Ornos Bay and just under two miles from Mykonos town, Kalesma’s 25 accommodations will be spread across five acres and set against a lush hillside blanketed with 20,000 plants. All suites will offer unobstructed lookouts from the private patio, as well as a full-sized personal heated pool.

Côte d’Azur: La Réserve Ramatuelle is nestled within a cliffside jardin overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Just 15 minutes outside St. Tropez, the property feels like a well-kept secret. Each of the 14 villas comes with its own private garden and pool. The three-bedroom Villa No. 2 has 22,000 square-feet of gardens with unbeatable views of the Mediterranean Sea. Wall-to-wall windows open to the outside, seamlessly blending indoors with outdoors, where an al fresco dining and entertaining area and a private infinity pool and Jacuzzi overlook Cap Taillat.

Thailand: Set among 17 acres of tropical gardens, Belmond Napasai offers a secluded retreat with a collection of standalone villas and suites overlooking Baan Tai beach on Thailand’s Koh Samui. For the utmost privacy, guests can book one of the oceanfront pool residences ranging from one to four bedrooms. The multi-level private homes each feature a massage sala, direct beach access and an oceanfront pool.

Views of Desert + Mountains

Namibia: andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge opened October 16, 2019 after a 10-month complete rebuild in one of the world’s oldest deserts and adjacent to an International Dark Sky Reserve. Ten 1,400 square-foot guest suites have desert views from every corner with thoughtful touches like butler hatches with secret, solar-powered freezer drawers stocked with ice cream and Namibian craft beer;  in-room fireplaces and artist easels; large private verandas with outdoor showers and fire pits; and chilled plunge pools to offset the desert heat. Need more about the pool.

Marrakech: Situated just steps from Jemaa el Fna, Royal Mansour is a quiet oasis with an open-air courtyard and the calming fragrance of orange blossoms. The palatial estate, owned by the King of Morocco, is the only all-riad property in Marrakech. No elevators; no carts; no rooms; no crowds. Dotted along petal-pink walkways are 53 private, three-story riads with rooftop terraces and private plunge pools. The Grand Riad is the crown jewel, with a rooftop terrace spread over two levels with a pool that offers views out to the Atlas Mountains.

Views of Wildlife

Costa Rica: Nayara Tented Camp opened in December 2019 as one of the very first luxury tented camps in Central America. The 21 tented accommodations are dotted up a hillside with unobstructed views of the towering Arenal Volcano. Set in the lush rainforest – home to wild flora and fauna like hummingbird, colorful macaw, and over 15 sloths – each tent has an expansive terrace with a private pool fed by warm mineral springs sourced from the volcano.

South Africa: andBeyond Tengile River Lodge is located in South Africa’s private Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which is known for its unmatched leopard sightings. With a name that means tranquil, the lodge features nine floating suites that look out over the Sand river from a forest and each suite offers river views. After a morning game drive, guests can swim in their own personal pool while spotting the elephants and buffalo that regularly graze in the river.

Views of Vineyards

Napa Valley: The three new Maple Grove Villas at Bardessono Hotel & Spa in Napa Valley are available to book individually or as one three-bedroom retreat. The villas have stocked wine fridges, fireplaces and outdoor “cocktail pools” with lounge seating. Bardessono Hotel & Spa is one of only three Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum-certified hotels in the county. Located in Yountville, cuisine reigns king here, with more Michelin stars per capita than any other place in America.