Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today: Top 10 best luxury hotels in Dubai

Between its gravity-defying skyscrapers and stunning desert landscape, Dubai is a dazzling metropolis, blending past and present to electrifying effect and offering something for everyone. You can splurge on a shopping spree at Dubai Mall, the world’s second largest shopping mall, encompassing an aquarium, ice rink, and the Dubai Fountain, or bargain for gold in the Gold Souk, a traditional market composed of over 300 gold merchants. You can gaze over the city’s skyline from the 148th floor of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building on earth, and explore Palm Jumeirah, an artificial archipelago featuring a waterpark and dolphin habitat. Or you can escape the heat at Ski Dubai indoor ski resort or bask in the sunshine on Dubai’s beaches. Synonymous with world-class hotels and resorts, this must-visit city is also a luxury traveler’s dream. Here’s my round-up of the 10 best luxury hotels in Dubai.

There is more information below the slideshow. Think I missed one? Share your favorite Dubai hotel in the comments section, or take my poll below!

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

10. ATLANTIS THE PALM DUBAI

This dynamic property is rising in Dubai from the coastline of the largest man-made island in the world, the Palm Island. Positioned as the flagship property it is, Atlantis The Palm is situated at the apex of the Palm Island’s outer crescent, surrounded by the beautifully tranquil sea of the Arabian Gulf. The palatial hotel is one of Dubai’s most impressive resorts, part blockbuster luxury hotel (more than 1,500 rooms and suites!), part aquatic wonderland. The resort has some of the most elegant hotel rooms in Dubai, designed to immerse guests in absolute comfort and unparalleled luxury. The hotel’s underwater suites have breathtaking underwater views, including the “ancient” ruins of the mythical lost city of Atlantis and its 65,000 marine inhabitants. Families will love the hotel’s Aquaventure Waterpark, where they can discover an underwater world at The Lost Chambers Aquarium or meet the incredible marine mammals at Dolphin Bay and Sea Lion Point.

• Hotel website: Atlantis The Palm Dubai
• Other accolades: Atlantis The Palm Dubai also features in my top 10 lists of the best underwater hotels in the world, the world’s best hotel breakfasts, and the best family hotels in the world.

9. PARK HYATT DUBAI

Located in Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht club on the banks of the majestic Dubai Creek, Park Hyatt Dubai provides an idyllic setting for a luxury getaway. This 5 star resort offers 223 luxury rooms including 34 suites, all of which offer stunning views overlooking the Dubai Creek and marina. The hotel’s award-winning dining venues offer the finest in Western, Thai and French cuisines. With floor-to-ceiling windows, wood-fired ovens and theatre kitchens, the hotel brings excitement and style to dining, both indoor and al fresco.​ As a premium Dubai city resort, the property also offers its guests a number of exciting activities such as Seawings, the aerial seaplane taking off of Dubai Creek and an 18-hole, par-71 championship course that rolls into thousands of undulating yards, or pampering spa treatments at the luxury Amara Spa, one of the finest Dubai spas.

• Hotel website: Park Hyatt Dubai
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Park Hyatt Dubai via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).

8. JUMEIRAH AL QASR

Al Qasr means ‘The Palace’ – and this hotel truly is the jewel in the crown of Madinat Jumeirah (or ‘city of Jumeirah’). Designed in the style of a Sheikh’s summer residence, the hotel replicates traditional royal architecture, coupled with luxurious modernity throughout. Approached along a tree-lined avenue, adorned with beautifully sculpted Arabian horses, the hotel itself will take your breath away. The design of 292 rooms is a tribute to the age-old architectural styles of Arabia. As part of the magnificent Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Al Qasr offers all the facilities and activities of the wider resort, with traditional wooden abra boats transporting guests to more than 40 world-class restaurants and bars. The resort boasts a re-creation of an ancient market, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, with 70-plus boutiques and galleries, a mile-long private stretch of beach, watersports, 19 indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and complimentary access to Wild Wadi Water Park.

• Hotel website: Jumeirah Al Qasr
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Jumeirah Al Qasr via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, a bottle of wine in room on arrival, one dinner for two, and one 60 min massage for two).

7. FOUR SEASONS DUBAI AT JUMEIRAH BEACH

Bringing fresh, sophisticated style to dynamic Dubai, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach captures the city’s energy and excitement in a glamorous beach resort. Boasting a palatial lobby, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows looking out onto the beautiful gardens and Arabian Gulf, the property is an oasis nestled into the heart of the exclusive Jumeirah area. With polished marble and custom Murano chandeliers, it exudes luxury with understated elegance. The 237 spacious accommodations – including 49 suites – offer views of the Arabian Gulf on one side and Burj Khalifa and the downtown skyline on the other. Three pools, watersports and many shopping and dining outlets provide plenty of activities to occupy all.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).

6. RAFFLES THE PALM DUBAI

Inspired by palaces of continental Europe, Raffles The Palm Dubai -formerly known as the Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai – is a five-star luxury beach resort dedicated to the finest elements of life. Guests are welcome to immerse in an elegantly curated stay, dining and leisure experiences at this landmark destination on Palm Jumeirah, and discover Dubai’s iconic palace by the sea. Each of the spacious rooms and suites is embellished with hand-crafted Italian touches and offset by carefully selected amenities to complete the atmosphere of elegance. The refinement is complemented by exceptional leisure facilities, such as a private beach and lagoon pool, five culinary experiences including a Japanese restaurant as well as one of the largest wellness center – Cinq Mondes Spa – with 23 treatment rooms.

• Hotel website: Raffles The Palm Dubai

5. ONE&ONLY THE PALM

Chic and glamorous, One&Only The Palm is an exquisite low-rise boutique oasis located on the lush, landscaped private peninsula of the Palm Island crescent. Blending Moorish and Andalusian architecture with contemporary chic interiors, the property consists of 90 rooms and four exclusive beachfront villas. At One&Only The Palm, you can hide away from the everyday and soak up the sun beside shimmering pools and the private, white-sand beach; capture the calm of the day in the Guerlain Spa, set amidst ponds, fountains and open courtyards; and tantalize your palate with an enviable selection of bars and restaurants under the culinary guidance of three-Michelin-stars Chef Yannick Alléno. Across the water is One&Only Royal Mirage, the property’s equally stunning sister resort, where the world’s most discerning travelers are also assured of a warm welcome, understated luxury and discreet, attentive service.

• Hotel website: One&Only The Palm
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking One&Only The Palm and/or One&Only Royal Mirage via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and one dinner for two).

4. ARMANI HOTEL DUBAI

The Armani Hotel Dubai is located within Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, and part of a mixed use development consisting of 160 rooms and 144 residences. The downtown hotel is up to the 8th floor and then 38th and 39th floors, and the residences occupy levels 9 to 16 of the Burj Khalifa Tower. The property is suave and understated, with each design detail personally chosen by Giorgio Armani himself. Behind guestroom doors, understated elegance reigns: walls are adorned with handmade leather from Florence, floors covered with Japanese tatami, and bathrooms clad in gray stones from Alicante, Spain, all blending seamlessly with the clean, curved lines of the tower’s architecture. The elegant Armani/SPA tailors every experience to each guest and features a lovely outdoor pool wrapping around one of Burj Khalifa’s corners. The hotel’s dining venues serve Italian, Mediterranean, Japanese and Indian cuisine.

• Hotel website: Armani Hotel Dubai
• Other accolades: Armani Hotel Dubai features in my top 10 lists of the world’s best city hotels and best hotels owned by celebrities.
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Armani Hotel Dubai via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, one lunch or dinner for two, and $35 USD spa credit).
• Review: read my review of Armani Hotel Dubai here.

3. BURJ AL ARAB

The distinctive sail-shaped silhouette of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, a glittering architectural marvel in the middle of the Arabian Gulf, is more than just a stunning hotel, it is an emblem of modern Dubai, a world-famous icon, and a symbol of extreme wealth, hence making the resort very popular among the rich and famous. Still the only (self-proclaimed) 7 star super luxury hotel in the world, Burj Al Arab offers oversized suite-only accommodation, with each suite composed of two floors that are connected by a marble staircase. Here, you can soothe your soul in a spa-like bathroom with Jacuzzi, mosaic floor, and full-size Hermes products. The opulent lobby, dotted with huge golden columns, leads to several boutiques and exquisite restaurants. The property also features a spectacular outdoor deck area, floating above the sea, which includes two pools, a restaurant and a bar.

• Hotel website: Burj Al Arab
• Other accolades: Burj Al Arab also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s most instagrammable hotels, the world’s most amazing hotel lobbies, the world’s most outrageous, over-the-top hotel experiences, the world’s most expensive hotels, the world’s best hotel redemptions, and hotels with private helipads.
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Burj Al Arab via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and a 50 min massage for two).

2. THE BVLGARI RESORT DUBAI

1. AL MAHA, A LUXURY COLLECTION DESERT RESORT & SPA

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, is nestled among the lush palm groves, emerald canopies and iconic sand dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve where desert wildlife abounds. Offering secluded tranquility and iconic vistas of the sweeping plains and Hajar Mountain massif, the property showcases the heritage and architecture of the Bedouins and also offers a sense of desert adventure. Offering unsurpassed luxury, the suites – reminiscent of Bedouin tents – are faced far apart and blend gently into the desert. Beautifully furnished with a unique collection of authentic Arabian artifacts and antiquities, all suites boast private pools with spectacular views of the desert and its wildlife (gazelles & Arabian oryx). A stay at Al Maha includes all meals and two activities per night’s stay (choose from a camel ride with sundowners, archery, nature walks and more).

• Hotel website: Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa
• Other accolades: Al Maha Desort Resort also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s best desert retreats, hotel rooms with a spectacular view and the world’s most luxurious glamping sites.
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Al Maha Desert Resort via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read my review of Al Maha Desort Resort here.

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Top 10 best luxury hotels in Dubai appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today: Top 10 most luxurious resorts in Bali (Indonesia)

Located between Java and Lombok, the Indonesian island of Bali – often called the Island of the Gods – is a world-acclaimed island paradise for a reason, although its popularity has taken its toll in certain areas. The varied volcanic landscape of rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and verdant rice terraces provides a picturesque backdrop to Bali’s colorful, deeply spiritual and unique culture. Bali’s five-star resorts rank amongst the best hotels in the world, with most of them located in Nusa Dua, Seminyak and Ubud. Ubud’s hotels cater to those who prefer spas and cultural pursuits, while surfing and other beach activities can be found at the sophisticated beachfront communities of Nusa Dua and Seminyak. Here’s my selection of the 10 best luxury hotels & resorts in Bali.

There is more info below the slide show. Think I missed one? Share your favorite Bali resort in the comments section, or take my poll below!

*** Follow me on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

10. JUMANA BALI UNGASAN RESORT, ULUWATU

Jumana Bali Ungasan – previously a Banyan Tree property – sits 70 m (230 ft) above sea level on the southern tip of Bali, close to the famed Uluwatu Temple, overlooking a gold sand beach and the blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Most of the resort’s 73 palatial villas enjoy a view of the sea and they all come with a plunge pool, outdoor hot tube, and plenty of retractable floor-to-ceiling glass, instantly turning bedrooms into open-air cabanas. Traditional Balinese accents and modern Asian decorations are fused throughout the interiors, and occasional carvings or statuettes tweak the well-honed Banyan Tree aesthetic. The property features several excellent dining venues (the in-villa barbecue prepared by a personal chef is not to be missed) and a world-class spa.

• Hotel website: Jumana Bali Ungasan Resort
• Other accolades: Jumana Bali Ungasan features in my top 10 list of my favorite Banyan Tree hotels in the world.
• Review: read my review of Jumana Bali Ungasan Ungasan here.

9. AMANDARI, UBUD

Inspired by a traditional village, Amandari is framed by jungle and rice terraces in Bali’s cultural heartland. Alang-alang-thatched houses – some with pools, all with private tropical gardens – cosset guests under bamboo ceilings, their suites elegantly decorated with teak and coconut-wood. The grounds of Aman’s Ubud outpost are both sacred and essential to local families: children attend dance classes here, and religious processions pass through regularly, leading down the steps that spill below Amandari to a 7th-century stone tiger – a motif repeated throughout the property. Guests can follow the road out of the village to hike or bike the emerald-green landscape; or head further afield for artisan villages, hidden temples, and the palaces and boutiques of Ubud.

• Hotel website: Amandari
• Other accolades: Amandari also features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Ubud.
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read my review of Amandari here.

8. BVLGARI RESORT BALI, ULUWATU

The Bvlgari Resort Bali, at the time the second hotel opening by the prestigious Bvlgari group, is located on top of a 150 m (450 ft) high, jaw-dropping cliff cascading down towards the Indian Ocean. A pristine private beach, suitable for long walks along the oceanfront and featuring a private beach club, is reached via an inclined elevator. The 59 individual villas, freestanding and private, all include an open-air pavilion, terrace and private plunge pool, with the ones on the first row enjoying spectacular ocean views. In all villas, every natural element is polished to a shine: Indonesian wood floors glow, natural lava walls are neatly bricked, and floor-to-ceiling glass walls reveal manicured tropical plants.

• Hotel website: Bvlgari Resort Bali
• Other accolades: The Bvlgari Resort also features in my top 10 list of the most spectacular cliffside luxury hotels in the world.
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read my review of Bvlgari Resort Bali here.

7. THE ST REGIS BALI RESORT, NUSA DUA

Radiating beachfront elegance, the St. Regis Bali Resort is a spectacular destination offering outstanding opulence and award-winning refined luxury to the world’s most discerning travelers. The property is located in Nusa Dusa, a prestigious resort enclave built for the purpose of providing tourists a comfortable area for carefree holidays. Spacious luxury defines 123 beautifully appointed suites and villas, each appointed with handcrafted Balinese art, inviting balconies and marble bathrooms. All accommodations have access to calm, swimmable lagoons and private signature St. Regis Butler Service. Award-winning dining venues, bars, the distinctive Remède spa, fitness center and a children’s learning center are also on-site.

• Hotel website: The St Regis Bali Resort
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, round-trip private airport transfers, one time afternoon tea for two at King Cole bar, and a 60 minute Aqua Vitale pool treatment for up to 2 persons).

6. SIX SENSES ULUWATU, BALI

Six Senses Uluwatu Resort is set in Pecatu on the southernmost tip of Bali, which is the home of “Pura Uluwatu”, the sacred temple considered one of the island’s core spiritual pillars. The beautiful cliff-top Balinese-inspired Uluwatu resort offers uninterrupted ocean views from every angle. The resort comprises 103 suites and villas, inspired by local design, embracing nature and offering every creature comfort. The Six Senses Spa features locally inspired specialty treatments, multi-day integrated wellness programs and complimentary morning yoga sessions. The resort features multiple swimming pools, an open air event venue, function space, three restaurants including a chef’s table, a cooking school and an extensive organic garden and farm.

• Hotel website: Six Senses Uluwatu

5. ALILA VILLAS ULUWATU

Alila Villas Uluwatu is located in the dry savannah landscape of the Bukit Peninsular in the south of the island. Poised on an elevated plateau that meets with limestone cliffs sweeping down the Indian Ocean, the view from the hotel is nothing less than breathtaking. Blending in with these spectacular surroundings, the architecture of the hotel combines the delights of traditional Balinese pavilion architecture and rural landscapes with modern dynamic treatment of space and form. The spectacular yet serene, open-plan rooms with minimalistic interiors are designed to impart comfort and space.

• Hotel website: Alila Villas Uluwatu
• Other accolades: Alila villas Uluwatu also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s best honeymoon resorts and the world’s best luxury hotels.
• Tip: get complimentary VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, $100 USD resort credit, and an Alila Villas Uluwatu welcome package comprising of beach bag and custom-designed his and her hat developed exclusively for Alila Villas Uluwatu).
• Review: read my review of Alila Villas Uluwatu here.

4. FOUR SEASONS RESORT BALI AT SAYAN, UBUD

Voted #1 hotel in the world by Travel + Leisure in 2018, Four Seasons Resort Sayan encapsulates Bali at its philosophical and soulful best: a sublime hillside haven where man, humanity and nature unite with purest intent. Only a ten-minute drive from the stylish boutiques, artist ateliers and atmospheric eateries of boho-chic Ubud, Four Seasons Sayan is an inspiring base from which to explore Bali’s cultural heart or to retreat into nature’s meditative embrace. Guests arrive via a dramatic bridge, beneath which the Ayung River valley spreads its tropical arms. From the gravity-defying rooftop lotus pond, the property cascades down the hill to the two-tiered swimming pool, cantilevered over the river, through an enchanting forest that cocoons just 60 suites and villas.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
• Other accolades: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s most spectacular hotel lobbies and the best luxury hotels in Ubud.
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read my review of Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan here.

3. MANDAPA, A RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE, UBUD

Deriving its name from the Sanskrit word for “temple,” Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, stands as a tropical shrine dedicated to the self. Fronting the Ayung River near the Ubud jungle, the hotel replicates a traditional Balinese village, complete with working rice paddies. Showcasing the architecture and craftsmanship of the area, each of the 60 luxury suites and villas features a private outdoor space (some of them with pools) with views of the river or surrounding scenery. Four restaurants serve health-conscious cuisine sourced from the organic garden, although you can also arrange a romantic dinner overlooking the river or rice terrace. The spa offers a variety of programs focused on physical and spiritual well-being.

• Hotel website: Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
• Other accolades: Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton reserve also features in my top 10 lists of the best luxury hotels in Ubud and best luxury hotels in Indonesia.
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read my review of Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve here.

2. FOUR SEASONS RESORT BALI AT JIMBARAN BAY

Designed as a traditional Balinese village, this luxurious all-villa enclave spreads across 14 hectares (35 acres) of oceanfront in Bali, giving resort guests direct access to the beach right at sea level. The resort offers 147 villas set amid lush tropical gardens. The luxurious villas – each with a private plunge pool – terrace down a hillside woven with brilliant flowers and Balinese temples. Here, you can steep yourself in local island culture, unwind with holistic spa treatments and enjoy a wide range of dining options, including the beachfront Sundara restaurant. More sensory delights await at open-air Taman Wantilan restaurant, where theatre-style dining is presented by a brigade of specialty chefs at nine culinary exhibitions or show kitchens.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay
• Other accolades: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay also features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Indonesia.
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read my review of Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay here.

1. AMANKILA

Mount Agung provides a dramatic backdrop for Amankila (peaceful hill), a secluded seaside resort overlooking the Lombok Strait and managed by Aman, one of the world’s most exclusive hotel brands. The 34 free-standing thatched-roof suites offer exceptional views from their hillside locations, and are connected to the resort’s facilities by raised walkways. Guests can relax around the signature three-tiered pool or at the beach club on Amankila’s beach, with its silverblack sands and turquoise waters. What separates Amankila from other luxury Bali hotels is that it is situated in Karangasem, one of Bali’s most traditional regencies, offering easy access to untouched rural countryside, local crafts and the region’s royal past.

• Hotel website: Amankila
• Other accolades: Amankila also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s most beautiful hotel pools and the best luxury hotels in Indonesia.
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read my review of Amankila here.

*** Follow me on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Top 10 best luxury hotels & resorts in Bali appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review.

Last summer, I enjoyed a wonderful holiday in Singapore and the Indonesian islands of Java & Bali. You can read my trip reports here:

• Review: Singapore Airlines A380 new First Class suite from London to Singapore
• Review: Marina Bay Sands Hotel (Singapore)
• Review: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay
• Review: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
• Review: Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Ubud (Bali)
• Review: Amanjiwo, Borobodur (Java)
• Review: Amandari, Ubud (Bali)
• Review: Amankila, Bali
• Review: Banyan Tree Ungasan, Uluwatu (Bali)
• Review: Bulgari Resort Bali (today)
• Review: Anantara Uluwatu (Bali)
• Review: Singapore Airlines B787-10 Dreamliner Business Class from Bali to Singapore
• Review: Singapore Airlines A380 (old) Business Class from Singapore to London

Today: Review of Bulgari Resort Bali (Indonesia)

• Hotel website: Bulgari Resort Bali
• Location: Google maps
• Tip: get free VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso

Managed by the prestigious Italian Bulgari company, the Bulgari Resort Bali is located on top of a 150 m (450 ft) high, jaw-dropping cliff cascading down towards the Indian Ocean. The 59 individual villas, freestanding and private, all include an open-air pavilion, terrace and private plunge pool, with the ones on the first row enjoying spectacular ocean views. In all villas, every natural element is polished to a shine: Indonesian wood floors glow, natural lava walls are neatly bricked, and floor-to-ceiling glass walls reveal manicured tropical plants. A pristine private beach, suitable for long walks along the oceanfront and featuring a private beach club, is reached via an inclined elevator. The property also features world-class dining venues and a fabulous spa.

Bulgari Resort Bali features in my top 10 lists of the best luxury hotels in Bali and the most spectacular cliffside luxury hotels in the world.

Have you ever stayed at Bulgari Resort Bali? If so what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my Youtube clip & slideshow):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Reviews of other hotels in Bali & Java
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• The Bulgari Resort Bali is located near the village of Pecatu on the southern tip of the Bukit Peninsula. This large limestone peninsula – which features rugged scenery and a semi-arid climate – harbors some of Bali’s most famous attractions, including the cliff-hanging Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple, a number of Bali’s most spectacular beaches, and the top surfing spots on the island. As is so often the case, it were intrepid surfers and backpackers who really opened up the eyes of the world to this magnificent part of the island, hereby initiating the tourist development of this area in the seventies. Today, Uluwatu is home to some of Bali’s most exclusive hotels, including the Bulgari Resort Bali. Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar) is a 45-minute drive from the resort (approximately 18 km or 11 mi).

• The ultraluxurious resort is set on a wind-swept promontory, 150 m (450 ft) above its own private beach (more on that below) and the Indian Ocean. The property’s epic cliffside location is one of the most pristine and beautiful spots in the Indonesian archipelago, and affords unrivaled views across the sea. The best vantage points in the resort to take in the stupendous panoramas are the hotel’s stylish and open-air welcome pavilion, the infinity pool, and the villas located on the cliff’s edge. In addition, the resort’s location on the southernmost tip of Bali puts it in position to offer its privileged guests majestic views of both sunrise and sunset from the hilltop lobby, depending on the time of year.

• An intimate Hindu temple rises on the highest point of the property. This place of worship, built in accordance with Balinese traditions, neighbors the Bulgari’s imposing arrival pavilion, which welcomes guests with elegant proportions and a masterful design. From here, the resort cascades down the lush cliffside, which is dotted by a maze of massive resort pavilions and high-walled villas interconnected by steep cobble stone pathways. The most expensive villas as well as the spa and pool are located on the cliff’s edge. The resort’s layout blends seamlessly in a terraced and perfectly manicured landscape of lush Balinese gardens. Frangipane trees, a ubiquitous presence in Bali, are scattered throughout the resort with their white blossoms spreading a sweet fragrance from morning till evening.

• Created by architects Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Partners, the resort’s unique design is a blend of traditional Balinese style and dramatic contemporary Italian elements. The hotel’s pavilions and villas have been built and furnished using hand-cut volcanic stones, rich exotic woods and refined fabrics. Natural lava and palimanan stone are used for the resort’s gardens and walls, refined bangkiray hardwood in the villas and restaurants, and natural green-colored sukabumi stone to clad the private and public swimming pools. A collection of exquisite Balinese antiques and exotic art pieces also adorn the resort. Furniture and decorative details, such as stemware, flatware, ceramics and woven fabrics, were designed and produced in Bali by a team of local artists and designers in collaboration with the resort’s architects.

• Opened in 2006, the resort is operated in a joint venture between the Marriott hotel chain and Bulgari. Although Bulgari is mainly known as an Italian luxury goods brand, the company is rapidly expanding its portfolio of resorts across the globe and aims to become one of the leading luxury hospitality collections in the world. Comprised of selected properties in major cosmopolitan cities and luxury resorts destinations, its aim is to convey the excitement of the Bulgari brand, its timeless glamour and its heritage of magnificent Roman jeweler. The fashion-forward brand Bulgari currently manages posh hotels in Milan, London, Dubai, Shanghai, Bejing and Bali, and will soon unveil new editions in Tokyo, Paris and Moscow. The brand is committed to sustainable luxury, respecting the surrounding environment as well as human resources.

• The resort’s 58 freestanding villas stand side by side in several rows on the sheer terraces of the majestic cliffs. They are nestled within high volcanic stone walls and all come with their own pool. During my visit, I stayed in a one bedroom ocean villa (the resort’s lowest room category). Entrance to the villa was via an open-air pavilion, which featured a private garden, a plunge pool, and an expansive outdoor living area. On the inside, a spacious vestibule lead to the stylish bedroom, which came with two queen-sized beds (per my request) and floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides. The interior was decorated with pieces of antique Balinese art and equipped with state-of-the-art technological features such as a flat screen TV, high-speed WiFi and audio/video system by Bang and Olufsen. The bathroom was enormous, taking up half of the villa, and featured black terrazzo flooring, two sinks, a deep soaking tub, and two showers (one located inside, the other one in the garden).

• The resort also includes several two- to five bedroom mansions. Compared to the one bedroom villas, these mansions feature larger pools in addition to kitchens equipped with Miele appliances. The property’s most exclusive mansion is the incredible Bulgari Villa, which is located in the resort’s westernmost point, on a slightly higher position. Reachable by a private access, this villa boasts two master bedrooms, a large living area with built-in bar, an oversized dining room, a home theatre, and a spa treatment room. The villa’s phenomenal 20 m (66 ft) private pool and a meditation pergola surrounded by an extensive terrace and small pavilions where you can eat and live in the open complete this one-of-a-kind scenario, perfect for private events, weddings or a family holiday.

• The resort has a twofold spirit. On the one hand, the walled separation between all villas ensures maximum privacy and a perfect holiday playground to guests. On the other, if you can drag yourself outside (the pool of) your villa, a glamorous, energetic, and cheerful public area awaits you on the resort’s easternmost side. Here, you find an infinity-edged pool along the cliff, surrounded by comfortable sun loungers and romantic cabanas. The pool area also features an open-wall bar, sunken sofas, and two jacuzzis on the side. Next to the pool is a water pond, overlooked by the resort’s two restaurants (more on that below). From here, a majestic volcanic stone stair leads to some other facilities above the pool complex, including the reception pavilion and the Bulgari Boutique. The latter is the only Bulgari store in Bali, offering Bulgari jewellery, watches, accessories and fragrance collection.

• The resort features a pristine beach, sandwiched between the towering cliffs and water’s edge, and 1,5 km (0,9 mi) long at low tide. The golden sand beach is inaccessible to the general public by both ground and sea, as it is protected by a coral reef. The only access is via the resort’s funicular that shuttles guests between the resort’s main facilities up the cliff and the beach club, offering jaw-dropping views on the way. The beach is one of Bali’s most scenic and spectacular stretches of sand. Here, you can laze the day away on luxurious lounge chairs while having a front row seat on the spectacle of occasional monster waves crashing on the offshore reef. If you are lucky, you may even spot dolphins frolicking around in the foam from the ocean froths, or even observe a giant whale. The magnificent beach club also features a restaurant and bar.

• Exclusive treatments – based on traditional Asian traditions and techniques – are offered at the oceanfront spa. The spa’s reception is located inside an antique Joglo house from Java, which was dismantled and precisely relocated at the site. The spa gardens feature a prevalence of water ponds, a tranquility pool, and a yoga pavilion, creating a blend of surfaces and chromatic harmonies to offer a relaxing environment. Six fully equipped treatment rooms and 2 royal pavilions with outdoor gardens, outdoor rain showers and plunge pools complete the layout. A unique concept of service and traditional Asian techniques – enhanced by modern practices in physiology and natural E’SPA products – ensure the most personalized and attentive care.

• The resort features 3 restaurants, offering Italian inspired and locally influenced cuisine:
  • Overlooking a reflection pool, the resort’s signature Italian restaurant, Il Ristorante, pays homage to Italy in a seductive ambience. Open exclusively for dinner, the 36-seat restaurant features creative interpretations of classical Italian cuisine, perfectly blending the finest imported Italian ingredients with the island’s bountiful organic produce.
  • Located on the cliff’s edge, the all day dining Sangkar restaurant offers a more casual ambiance and combines authentic Balinese dishes – enriched by various regional influences from the Indonesian archipelago – with a selection of international specialties.
  • Located above the private beach club, the 12-seat La Spiaggia offers a grill menu featuring the catch of the day and organic baby salad greens, complete with aromas of open air cooking and casual seating beneath a bamboo clad bale. Providing the perfect atmosphere for beach side soirees, La Spiaggia can also be privately booked for a rustic dining experience.

• Bali is one of the best destinations in the world to tie the knot, and the Bulgari Resort Bali is known as one of the most sought-after wedding sites on the island, thanks to its beautiful wedding chapel. Bearing the Bulgari mark of lavish luxury, the remarkably modern chapel is the only Bulgari branded marriage venue in the world. Its understated elegance comes from the paras Kerobokan stone from Bali and floor-to-ceiling glass paneling which, blended seamlessly together, create a perfectly harmonious setting. Adjacent to the chapel is a large pavilion terrace, a great outdoor venue that boasts an unrivalled view over the ocean, befitting any occasion.

• One of the greatest things about the Bulgari Resort Bali is its amazing staff. All employees are extremely friendly, helpful and sweet from the day of arrival until you leave.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

Bulgari Resort Bali is one Bali’s most exclusive and famous properties. Yet, it’s not perfect, and you need to know the following when considering a stay here:

• There’s not much within walking distance, just narrow village roads lined with skinny cows and modest shops. So, if you want to get away from it all in a super stylish, secluded environment, you’ll love the Bulgari Resort Bali. However, if you want to explore some of Bali’s famous sights, you’ll face long day trips due to the bad traffic jams on the island. For example, it takes around 2-2,5 hours each way to get from the resort to Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali.

• The size of the private plunge pools at the Bulgari Resort Bali is relatively small compared to the private pools in other, newer resorts in the area (e.g. Banyan Tree Ungasan, Six Senses Uluwatu, Anantara Uluwatu, and Alila Villas Uluwatu).

• Given the tiered cliffside architecture and the gentle slope rate of the hotel terrain, most villas do not enjoy open sea views as the panoramas are obstructed by the roofs of the villas in front. Only the eight ocean cliff villas on the edge offer completely unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean and the horizon.

• A large part of the pool deck is in the shade around three hours before sunset, due to the hilly terrain and high walls on the pool’s westernmost side. You’ll appreciate the shade offered at the pool by umbrellas and trees during the day, but once you could start getting out in the sun in late afternoon without burning yourself, you’ll find yourself in the shade. The one area of the pool which remains in the sun until sunset is its easternmost point, but unfortunately, there’s no deck with sun loungers here (only vegetation).

• The number of cabanas and loungers around the main pool is limited and at times of high occupancy, guests may have to wait before a seat or cabana becomes available (as I experienced myself on two separate occasions). Most guests prefer though to lounge on the private pool deck of their villa, and won’t have any issue with this. I also want to mention that during my stay, an unpleasant smell was present at the pool deck in the vicinity of the toilets and it persisted for several days before the ‘issue’ was fixed.

• IMHO, the beach of the Bulgari Resort Bali is one of Bali’s most spectacular beaches, given its rugged scenery. That said, it’s not the best beach for working on your tan as the resort’s elevated beach area with loungers is in the shade most of the day due to the high cliffs. During my visit mid-summer (July), there was only sun for about one hour at noon. In addition, the sea here is not good for swimming due to exposed corals.

• The resort’s funicular leads to one of the most spectacular landscapes in all of Bali with thundering waves and soaring cliffs. The funicular doesn’t go all the way to the beach though: there are still many steps from the funicular’s lower station to the beach, but the awe-inspiring beauty that awaits you is worth the efforts. The funicular’s last run is at 5 pm, which is a pity, since the resort’s private beach extends into an another mile-long curving stretch of golden sand at low tide, which would be perfect for a romantic stroll in the setting sun.

• The beach club is open weather permitting. The beach is closed during strong wind and rainy weather to ensure the safety of guests.

• The resort’s pathways are steep and there are many stairs throughout the property, which make the Bulgari Resort Bali not ideal for mobility-challenged guests. However, the resort’s buggies can drop you of at most places, so it isn’t really an issue within the resort itself, except when you want to go the beach (since the funicular doesn’t go down all the way to the beach itself, as mentioned above).

• The rather small breakfast buffet doesn’t offer the hugest range in terms of variety and is a little disappointing for a 5-star resort of this caliber, although certainly enough to keep you happy. You get the bulk of your breakfast from the extensive à la carte selection.

• I would not recommend this hotel as a destination for families with young children. It’s definitely better suited to honeymooners and couples who just want to enjoy each other’s company and forget about the hustle of their regular life. That said, if you are traveling with your family to the Bulgari Resort Bali, you may want to book one of the multi-bedroom mansions, which provide a private ‘resort within a resort’ experience that is better suited for younger children.

• Obviously, this is not a cheap place to stay (and that’s an understatement) but you should know that going in. IMHO, the villa rates are similar to what you pay at other high-end resorts in the area, but the extras (e.g. transfers, food and spa treatments) are sometimes exorbitantly priced. For example, the rate for an extra bed at the Bulgari Resort Bali is more than $100 USD per night, excluding breakfast (none of the other resorts I stayed at in Bali charged extra for a roll-away bed in the room).

• Although the resort is managed in a collaboration between Marriott and Bulgari, the property does not participate in Marriott’s loyalty program, Marriott Rewards.

MY VERDICT

• Location: 9/10
• Design: 9/10
• Pool: 9/10
• Rooms: 9/10
• Food: 8/10
• Breakfast: 8/10
• Spa: 9/10
• Service: 10/10
• Value for money: 8/10
• Overall experience: exceptional: 9/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Save money: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD resort credit).

• Save money: read here my tips for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel like Bulgari Bali Resort (and/or receive many free perks).

• Room tip: for an unhindered view of the Indian Ocean, you need to book one of the eight ocean cliff villas on the edge.

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

REVIEWS OF OTHER HOTELS IN BALI & INDONESIA

• Review: Anantara Uluwatu, Bali (Indonesia)
• Review: Bulgari Resort Bali (Indonesia)
• Review: Banyan Tree Ungasan, Bali (Indonesia)
• Review: Amankila, Bali’s best luxury hotel
• Review: Amandari (Ubud, Bali)
• Review: Amanjiwo, Borobudur (Java, Indonesia)
• Review of Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Bali, Indonesia)
• Review: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan (Ubud, Bali)
• Review: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay (Indonesia)
• Hotel review: Villa Sungai, Bali (Indonesia)
• Hotel review: the Viceroy Bali (Indonesia)
• Review: Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali’s most spectacular hotel
• Hotel review: COMO Shambhala Bali (Indonesia)
• Hotel review: Soori Bali (Indonesia)

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Located close to the equator, temperatures in Bali hover at a balmy 30°C  (85°F) year-found. Temperatures in the Ubud area remain fairly constant throughout the year, although some cooler evenings can occur due to its location in the mountains. The frequency of precipitation is the only concern for travelers seeking to visit Ubud. The rainy season lasts from October to March, and the heavy humidity and torrential rainfalls make this period more unpredictable for adventures and exploration. The dry season lasts from April to September, and the weather during this time is warm and pleasant, so this is generally viewed as the optimal time to experience Bali at its finest.

HOW TO GET THERE

Bulgari Resort Bali is a 45 minute drive from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport. Click here for a continuously updated list of airlines that offer direct flights to Bali.

PHOTOS

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Review: Bulgari Resort Bali (Indonesia) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

1. ONE&ONLY NYUNGWE HOUSE, RWANDA

Alongside ancient rainforest, within the lush green expanse of a working tea plantation, Nyungwe House offers an exciting window to Africa’s fascinating wildlife and culture. Situated on a working tea plantation on the edge of Nyungwe National Park, One&Only Nyungwe House is the first of two new One&Only resorts to open in Rwanda. Exploratory treks and hikes through the forest give guests access to the park’s nearly 250,000 acres, where they can discover black-and-white colobus monkeys, gray-cheeked mangabeys, and more than 275 bird species. After full days out in the park, guests can retire to the resort’s modern suites and villas, each featuring decor accented with traditional African touches and vast private decks equipped with fireplaces.

• Hotel website: One&Only Nyungwe House

2. SUNDY PRAIA, SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE

Hidden away 130 miles off the coast of West Africa, Sundy Praia is a tented luxury hotel at the wild northwest tip of the island of Principe. Principe’s forests shelter an abundance of endemic birds and plants, rep and amphibians – little wonder the island is sometimes referred to as Africa’s Galapagos. Merging seamlessly with their forest surrounds, the resort’s 15 tented villas lie hidden among a scattering of tropical almond and banana trees, each gazing down to the sea. With weathered wood panelling and timber decks, the villas echo the style of the fishermen’s huts that once stood this spot. The resort’s international chefs refine the best of the island’s produce and traditions, creating seasonal menus bursting with original flavours and fresh, organic ingredients.

• Hotel website: Sundy Praia

3. MOMBO & LITTLE MOMBO, BOTSWANA

Wilderness Safaris opened its newly-rebuilt flagship camps, Mombo and Little Mombo, situated in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Long known as “the Place of Plenty,” Mombo and Little Mombo boast enormous concentrations of plains game and predators and is considered to be one of the best areas for game viewing in Africa. Mombo’s nine spacious tents afford sweeping views over a floodplain teeming with wildlife. The sitting room, separate bedroom and bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers and bathtub with copper and brass fittings all contribute to the Wilderness Safaris’ ideal of responsible luxury. With just three tents tucked away on the other side of the same island, Little Mombo is a smaller, more intimate version of its sister camp.

• Hotel website: Mombo & Little Mombo

4. HOANIB VALLEY CAMP, NAMIBIA

In a country jam-packed with vast, spectacularly beautiful landscapes, Kaokoland may just be the most incredible of them all. Deep in north-western Namibia, the area is a melee of towering mountains, sand dunes, and huge expanses of desert, scattered with unique wildlife and nomadic Himba settlements. This area is home to the new Hoanib Valley Camp, an elegant, intimate affair that immerses you into the wilds of the desert. The six rooms blend seamlessly with the environment, offering a simple aesthetic that matches the rugged landscape down to a tee. Days are spent tracking endangered rhino, desert-adapted elephant, and desert-adapted giraffe, before retiring to your private veranda to marvel at the magnitude of your surroundings (G&T in hand).

• Hotel website: Hoanib Valley Camp

5. SHIPWRECK LODGE, NAMIBIA

Located in the famous Skeleton Coast concession between the Hoarusib and Hoanib rivers in the Skeleton Coast National Park, Shipwreck Lodge is a short drive from Möwe Bay. The shipwreck-shaped chalets are nestled between the dunes with a view of the Atlantic Ocean where the cold Benguela current provides guests with a refreshing breeze. Guests here can look forward to appreciate the harshness of the desert and the beauty of these solitary landscapes filled with geological history, and to learn about the fauna and flora adapted to survive in these harsh conditions – all from the comfort of the restaurant deck. There are 8 twin/double chalets and 2 family chalets.

• Hotel website: Shipwreck Lodge

6. &BEYOND TENGILE RIVER LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA

Meaning “tranquil” in the local Tsonga language, &Beyond Tengile River Lodge is situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, next to South Africa’s Kruger National Park and renowned for its high density of wildlife and Big Five sightings. Built with an extremely light footprint, Tengile features nine suites that are raised above ground level to give the impression that they are floating over the riverbed, providing exceptional views from the dappled shade of a cool riverine forest. The spacious suites offer sunken lounges, elegant bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms (with indoor and al fresco showers) that open out into the forest, creating private spaces in the open air. A magnificent spa area offers a haven of tranquility where guests can relax in between game drives.

• Hotel website: &Beyond Tengile River Lodge

7. FOUR SEASONS RESORT SEYCHELLES AT DESROCHES ISLAND, SEYCHELLES

Adventure and rejuvenation await at Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island – the only resort on this captivating coral island. The castaway sanctuary is located on a pristine tropical island that measures 6 km (4 mi) in length and is edged by 14 km (9 mi) of soft white beaches. Being one hour by plane from the main island Mahe, the destination enjoys unrivalled privacy and absolute freedom. The property is one of the most intimate Four Seasons resorts with just 71 accommodations, including pavilions, villas, suites and residences – all with private pool and beach access. Here, guests discover eclectic cuisine at two restaurants, and fill their days with island activities ranging from world-class diving, fishing and nature walks to luxurious indulgence at the spa.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island

8. JABALI RIDGE, TANZANIA

Set high on a rocky kopje overlooking a landscape dotted with spiky palms and bulbous baobabs, Jabali Ridge is a sophisticated base from which to explore Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park. The remarkable beauty of Ruaha is not only in the landscape and its diversity of flora and fauna, or the impressive big game, but in the feeling of having the wilderness all to yourself. With only a handful of visitors at any one time in an area the size of New Jersey, this is an exceptional safari experience. Jabali Ridge’s 8 suites are hidden amongst the rocky boulders that cocoon the property. An infinity pool, spa and plenty of places to laze ensure that time off is as memorable as time out in the bush. Expert guides lead walking safaris, game drives and night drives.

• Hotel website: Jabali Ridge

9. CONSTANCE AIYANA, ZANZIBAR, TANZANIA

Mysteriously set in the fragrant Pemba Island along the 2000 years old Indian Ocean trade route, Constance Aiyana is where you will surrender to your senses.  Ecologically built with locally sourced materials like limestone, aggregates, coconut brooms, Aiyana is in total harmony with Mother Nature. Inspired by the beautiful African architecture, the Aiyana hotel features high ceilings, pastel colours, fragrant gardens and water feature. There are 30 magnificent villas, all facing the dreamy Pemba ocean and dressed in a minimalist luxury décor with a Zanzibari touch. Pemba is accessible from Dar es Salaam; a thirty-minute light aircraft flight from Zanzibar and can be part of a multi-destination safari trip or a stand-alone exotic holiday.

17. RAFFLES EUROPEJSKI WARSAW, POLAND

In the historic district of Warsaw, next to the Presidential Palace, Raffles Europejski is a significant restoration of a landmark building. The restoration team has worked closely with the local conservation body and with the utmost respect to ensure the hotel’s heritage and character are preserved. Raffles Europejski, Warsaw offers its guests 103 elegant guestrooms and suites; a restaurant with an outdoor terrace with seasonal menus showcasing Poland’s rich produce and cuisine; a bar and cigar lounge; and a pâtisserie that evokes Hotel Europejski’s fascinating story, tempting guests and locals with chocolates, cakes, ice-cream and other sweet delicacies. The hotel also house a luxurious spa featuring six treatment rooms.

• Hotel website: Raffles Europejski

18. THE EDITION BARCELONA, SPAIN

The Barcelona EDITION boasts an enviable locale in El Born, the city’s creative hub in the centre of the famed Ciutat Vella district. Under the creative direction of Ian Schrager, alongside the famed Spanish interior designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán the hotel brings together, in a subtle synergy, the integrity and character of a historic environment with a simple, sophisticated design sensibility, creating a seamless blend of charisma and ease. With 100 rooms and suites, three restaurants, two bars, a roof terrace with plunge pool and a buzzing lobby, the hotel offers a dynamic social hub where guests and visitors can work, relax, socialise and dine all under one roof.

• Hotel website: The EDITION Barcelona

19. THE CHEDI LUSTICA BAY, MONTENEGRO

Located on the coast Montenegro at Luštica Bay with stunning views over the Adriatic Sea, The Chedi Luštica Bay is the largest 5-star hotel in the Boka Bay, offering 110 guestrooms, two restaurants and a bar, conference rooms and a business centre, along with an outdoor pool, spa and fitness centre, an indoor heated pool, gymnasium and ancillary facilities. The resort also benefits from its position within the resort town of Luštica Bay near Tivat. Designed to blend seamlessly into the style, ambience and community of the town, it is part of a unique whole. Authenticity is key to every guest experience, from the refined grandeur of the architecture to the respectful intimacy of addressing our guests by name.

• Hotel website: The Chedi Luštica Bay

20. SANDERS COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

Billed as Copenhagen’s first luxury boutique hotel, Sanders captures the essence of the past adopting a theatrical prose mixed with the flair of Paris, eccentricity of England and Danish design cool. The hotel Sanders of is all about modern townhouse vibe, luxury without the fuss and a clever design narrative. Already flagged as the new mingling hub of Copenhagen’s cultural scene, expect plush boutique salons, bespoke furnishings, and commissioned artworks by the talented Lydia Cowpertwait of Dais Contemporary create the scene of visual eye candy. The classic and historical hotel consists of 5 floors and 52 rooms with everything from smaller train-like coupe rooms to the Sanders Apartments with reminiscence of big Copenhagen apartments.

• Hotel website: Sanders Copenhagen

21. HOTEL TWENTYSEVEN AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS

Hotel TwentySeven is an extraordinary and sensational all-suite boutique hotel located in the beating heart of Amsterdam’s city centre, Dam Square. Defying logic and re-defining luxury in Amsterdam, no detail has gone unnoticed in the hotel’s 16 sumptuous suites, including a signature scent that infuses the air and the sense of peace that comes from meticulous soundproofing. Service at the hotel is top-notch: as soon as you want something – a glass of champagne, a dinner reservation – your butler is there to take care of it. At Restaurant Bougainville, the culinary masterpiece of Hotel TwentySeven, innovative tastes wait to be discovered, both at breakfast and dinner.

• Hotel website: Hotel TwentySeven

22. L’OSCAR HOTEL LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

The L’oscar London hotel has been created from a Baroque-style, former church in Holborn, a grand literary hub, and the centre of a thriving mix of bars, shops and restaurants that forms part of the city’s coolest high-end district. Imagination and attention to detail is woven into the fabric of L’oscar, from the sumptuously-decorated bedrooms, velvet and leather interiors, exquisitely-unique champagne coupes, crystal butterfly wing taps and seven-storey chandelier. L’oscar is conceived with the belief that a hotel is a theatre: a stage where performances of the utmost quality are played out. One of the hotel’s highlights is the Baptist Grill restaurant, where opulence and temptation combine in the domed chapel under the guidance of Executive Chef, Tony Fleming.

• Hotel website: L’oscar London

23. SIX SENSES DUXTON & MAXWELL, SINGAPORE

Six Senses’ new Singapore property is split across two buildings that are an easy wander apart: Six Senses Duxton and Six Senses Maxwell. The Six Senses Duxton site features a row of trading houses that have been sustainably restored under the gifted hand of acclaimed British designer Anouska Hempel. In harmony with a rich Asian history, each of the 49 guestrooms and suites feature a unique individuality so that no two are exactly the same. The Six Senses Maxwell site was originally a nutmeg plantation before 14 colonial-style buildings were constructed and later joined together as a single entity. This property features 120 guestrooms and suites, a spa, outdoor lap pool, Champagne bar and lounge, whiskey bar, boardroom and club lounge.

• Hotel website: Six Senses Duxton & Six Senses Maxwell

24. TAJ EXOTICA RESORT & SPA, ANDAMANS

Fringed by strip of mangroves and a river overlooking the beach, the resort is a homage to the secluded Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, which stretches for 700 km (435 mi) from Burma towards Sumatra. Designed to showcase and nurture the island’s natural resources, the resort is dotted with 50 modern luxury villas on stilts under a canopy of coconut and palmyra trees; a  contemporary haven built  without cutting off a single tree. Guests can rest over the massive buttresses of an Andaman Padauk tree, ruminate by the water lily pond after a lavish massage or hit the treadmill at the fitness centre built around a majestic Mahua tree that soars up one level to the Olympic-sized infinity swimming pool.

• Hotel website: Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Andamans

25. SOHO HOUSE MUMBAI, INDIA

Set up in a 11-storey building in Juhu, Soho House Mumbai offers 38 bedrooms, a floor of members’ space, gym, rooftop pool, and a 34-seat screening room. The architecture of the house is inspired by the Indian culture. The interiors of each floor have colourful block printed fabrics from Rajasthan, with locally sourced furniture and Indian antiques. Each of the 38 bedrooms have been thoughtfully designed with elements like eco-friendly sisal carpet flooring, antique timber furniture, and lampshades created from antique sari fabrics. Its F&B outlets include Cecconi’s Mumbai, a modern classic restaurant serving Northern Italian dishes including spaghetti lobster, crab ravioli and meatballs; and The Allis a lounge and café serving hot drinks, juices and small bites.

• Hotel website: Soho House Mumbai

26. ITC GRAND GOA, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT & SPA, INDIA

Nestled in serene south Goa, amidst lush 45 acres of landscaped gardens, swaying coconut palms and shimmering lagoons – the ITC Grand Goa Resort & Spa (erstwhile Park Hyatt Resort & Spa Goa), with direct access to the pristine Arossim beach, provides all the ingredients for an invigorating or intimate relaxed getaway. This beach-side, village-styled resort’s architecture draws inspiration from the Indo-Portuguese vintage and blends classical elegance with a distinctive regional allure that’s infused in its service, cuisine, rituals and more – promising a truly immersive experience. The resort offers 6 signature food and beverage outlets along with multiple outdoor & indoor venues for bespoke banqueting, special events and weddings.

• Hotel website: ITC Grand Goa Resort & Spa

27. FAIRMONT MALDIVES, SIRRU FEN FUSHI, MALDIVES

Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi is a 120 luxury all-villa resort that offers exactly as its name translates – Secret Water Island. The resort includes a 200 m (656 ft) long swimming pool which traverses the length of the island, a reinvigorating destination spa and an intricate open air bamboo bar created by Balinese artisans who did not use any man-made materials in the structure. The architecture and design are typical of this exotic paradise, with the tastefully designed private water villas taking full advantage of the stunning location. Thatched roofs sit atop whitewashed walls, and the villas are erected on posts that let them hover over the crystal blue waters of the Indian Ocean, with private jetties offering panoramic views out over the sea.

• Hotel website: Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi

28. JOALI MALDIVES

Located in one of the largest and deepest atolls in the world, Joali Maldives is teeming with life, surrounded by tranquil lagoons, pristine white-sand beaches and a lush landscape of coconut palms. Accommodations include 73 private beach and water villas and residences ranging from one- to four-bedrooms, influenced by individual stories and designed to take guests on a sensory journey. As one of the first immersive art resorts in the Maldives, Joali is surrounded by interactive and experiential artistic pieces that incorporate surrounding nature and celebrate young designers, including Misha Khan, Nacho Carbonell, Porky Hefer, London-based Studio Glithero, Zemer Peled, Chris Wolston, Doug Johnston, Ardmore and more.

• Hotel website: Joali Maldives

29. ANANTARA QUY NHON VILLAS, VIETNAM

Set on a serene beach, Anantara Quy Nhon Villas welcomes guests to a luxurious hideaway comprising 25 private pool villas inspired by the indigenous beauty of southern Vietnam. Here, guests can spend their days relaxing in elegance, working up a sweat at the onsite gym, refreshing in the resort swimming pool or getting out into the picturesque countryside to discover even more of the real Vietnam. Quy Nhon is a historic city with a diverse surrounding landscape ideal for exploration. From adventurous hikes to secluded temples, discerning travellers can immerse themselves in the culture of this fascinating country. Phu Cat airport is a 50-minute drive away, offering domestic flights to Ho Chi Minh and Ha Noi.

• Hotel website: Anantara Quy Nhon

30. WA ALE ISLAND RESORT, MYANMAR

Just off the southern tip of Myanmar, there’s a scattering of over 800 islands making up the Mergui Archipelago (also called the Myeik Archipelago). Rainforest-draped shards of limestone and granite bulge through the crystalline Andaman Sea, the effect of which is nothing short of heavenly.  The island of Wa Ale, located in the archipelago’s Lampi Marine National Park, is now host to the area’s first high-end accommodation, Wa Ale Island Resort. Made up of eleven tented villas and three treetop hideouts, this unique resort sit alongside a long stretch of fine white sand. The accommodations were built with local materials (like river stones and reclaimed wood) to minimize impact on the surrounding environment.

• Hotel website: Wa Ale Island Resort

31. ALILA KOH RUSSEY, CAMBODIA

Alila Villas Koh Russey in Cambodia is Alila’s first ‘Villas’ resort outside Bali. Located amid the Koh Rong archipelago, the hotel is a 15-minute boat ride from the Cambodian coast, offering pristine bays, dramatic peninsulas, white-sand beaches and tropical forests. The resort features one and two-bedroom villas, each with its own terrace, private pool and garden. For the ultimate in luxury, the resort’s four-bedroom pool villa features a large living area, kitchen, master bedroom, three guest bedrooms and an expansive outdoor terrace and pool area. The resort offers a wealth of in-house facilities including a beachfront Spa Alila, kids club, beachside grill restaurant, sunset bar, and a restaurant with five-star international and local cuisine.

• Hotel website: Alila Koh Russey

32. ROSEWOOD PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA

Rosewood Phnom Penh occupies the top 14 floors of Vattanac Capital Tower One in the heart of the Central Business District, providing an ultra-luxury hospitality experience in the exotic capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia. A panoramic view of the city and the fabled Mekong River are seen from its position in the structure – whose shape is inspired by the silhouette of a rising dragon – and the Royal Palace, National Museum and Central market are within easy reach. The hotel features 175 rooms and suites, which rank amongst the largest hotel guestrooms in Phnom Penh. Dining options include a 120-seat bistro, a 60-seat lobby lounge, two specialty restaurants and a sky bar on a cantilevered terrace.

• Hotel website: Rosewood Phnom Penh

33. SIX SENSES ULUWATU, BALI, INDONESIA

The newly opened Six Senses Uluwatu Resort is set in Pecatu in the southernmost tip of Bali which is the home of “Pura Uluwatu”, the sacred temple considered one of the island’s core spiritual pillars. The beautiful cliff-top Balinese-inspired Uluwatu resort offers uninterrupted ocean views from every angle. The resort comprises 103 suites and villas, inspired by local design, embracing nature and offering every creature comfort. The Six Senses Spa features locally inspired specialty treatments, multi-day integrated wellness programs and complimentary morning yoga sessions. The resort features multiple swimming pools, an open air event venue, function space, three restaurants including a chef’s table, a cooking school and an extensive organic garden and farm.

• Hotel website: Six Senses Uluwatu

34. CAPELLA UBUD, BALI, INDONESIA

Nestled between Ubud’s rainforest, rice paddy fields and the sacred Wos River, Capella Ubud brings the wonders and myths of Bali’s exotic past to life. Inspired by the early European settlers from the 1800s, celebrated architect Bill Bensley conceptualized this ultra-luxurious tented camp as a tribute to their spirit of adventure. Each one of the 22 unique tents as well as an extravagant two-bedroom lodge are crafted with an individual inspirational theme, allowing guests to enjoy the essence of Bali’s untouched natural surroundings in personalized comfort. All retreats boast a private salt water Jacuzzi pool lavish indoor and outdoor bathrooms, a spacious lounge and bedroom whilst two outdoor decks offer the perfect setting for an intimate candlelit dinner.

• Hotel website: Capella Ubud

35. COMO UMA CANGGU, BALI, INDONESIA

COMO Uma Canggu is the newest addition to COMO Hotels and Resorts. Situated on Bali’s south coast, the beach front destination will offer panoramic views of the soft volcanic sand and rolling waves. The resort’s COMO Shambhala Retreat nurtures wellness through daily fitness classes, hands-on healing and holistic therapies. This is complemented by a peaceful night’s sleep within the resort’s contemporary accommodation, featuring stylish rooms, suites and spectacular three-bedroom penthouses with private rooftop pools. COMO Beach Club, a distinctly modern take on the traditional ‘surf scene’, is a place to gather with family and friends to enjoy an eclectic global menu and a soundtrack of live acoustic musicians and DJ sets.

• Hotel website: COMO Uma Canggu

36. ALILA SCBD JAKARTA, INDONESIA

A haven of hip and contemporary luxury, Alila SCBD Jakarta takes upscale lifestyle living in the Indonesian capital to the next level with unparalleled design architecture, chic pads, world-class restaurants, creative meeting and entertainment spaces in the heart of the city’s most dynamic retail and business district. Stunning picture windows, designer mod cons, trademark Alila amenities, dedicated club lounge and generously indulgent bathrooms are just some of the distinguishing features that are found in the 227 accommodations. The hotel also feature internationally renowned dining and entertainment, an outdoor pool, and a spa.

• Hotel website: Alila SCBD Jakarta

37. ALILA BANGSAR, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

Elevated above the bustle of Bangsar, one of Kuala Lumpur’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan districts, Alila Bangsar is modern urban retreat that fuses a haven of relaxation with a lively city vibe. Here, comfort and personalised service meet contemporary style and a variety of dining and lifestyle facilities, ideal for young urbanites, leisure travellers and sophisticated executives. Alila Bangsar occupies the topmost floors of a mixed-use development known as The Establishment. The hotel’s sky-level lobby is on the 41st floor while its 143 guestrooms are located on floors 35 to 40, all offering uninterrupted views of the Kuala Lumpur skyline. The hotel also features a stunning three-storey atrium overlooking a pool and some of the hottest new F&B concepts in Kuala Lumpur.

• Official hotel website: Alila Bangsar

38. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

Rising 65 storeys above the busy streets of the capital, the new Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur hotel houses 209 guest rooms and suites, as well as serviced apartments for those guests looking for an extended stay, and Four Seasons Private Residences. The hotel features several restaurants and lounges including the high-style Yun House for Cantonese specialities by Executive Chef Jimmy Wong, the chef showcase CurATE with its show kitchen, and Bar Trigona, a temple of modern cocktail culture. Leisure facilities are highlighted by an outdoor pool oasis with private cabanas and adjacent bar and grill, and an eight treatment room spa offering a carefully designed menu inspired by Malaysian healing traditions and the latest global therapies.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur

39. W KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

W Kuala Lumpur is ideally located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, surrounded by the main tourist spots in town, and within walking distance to Petronas Twin Towers. The property combines the bold, vibrant design and dynamic lifestyle programming that W is known for globally, but with a unique Kuala Lumpur twist. W Kuala Lumpur comprises 150 guest rooms distributed across 9 floors, overlooking the stellar expanse of the Petronas Twin Towers and city skyline. All rooms showcase the cutting-edge, contemporary design aesthetics of the city. The new hotel also has destination restaurants, bars, a gym, spa and WET pool.

• Official hotel website: W Kuala Lumpur

40. BANYAN TREE KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

Another newcomer to the capital of Malaysia is this new hotel from the well-known Asian luxury hotel chain. The property occupies the top seven floors of the Banyan Tree Signatures Pavilion Kuala Lumpur building. Offering only 55 rooms and suites, ranging from 51 to 200 square metres in size, in keeping with its positioning as an exclusive “urban resort”, each is furnished with aromatherapy amenities, a chromotherapy shower and, in the suites, a private relaxation pool. The hotel is topped by the Vertigo rooftop bar on its 59th rooptop floor. An open-air pool with stunning views, a state-of-the-art gym, and a Banyan Tree Spa with an extensive offering mean guests need never leave this urban sanctuary.

• Official hotel website: Banyan Tree Kualu Lumpur

41. ROSEWOOD LUANG PRABANG, LAOS

Rosewood Luang Prabang enjoys an idyllic hilltop forest in north central Laos, where guests are able to immerse themselves in the rich cultural history, spiritual heritage and diverse tropical landscape of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous designer Bill Bensley modelled the property on the concept of a Laotian hill station from the turn of the 20th century. The 23 accommodations are situated adjacent to a river or waterfall or float above the ground amongst the treetop foliage. They include their own private swimming pools, oversized balconies, and outdoor wooden bathtubs. Dining at Rosewood Luang Prabang delves deep into the rich Laotian food culture and chefs place utmost importance on locally sourced and seasonal foods.

• Hotel website: Rosewood Luang Prabang

42. AMANYANGYUN, SHANGHAI, CHINA

Aman, one of the world’s most exclusive hotel brands, has opened its fourth outpost in China, Amanyangyun. Set in a flourishing, tranquil forest, and just a 40-minute drive from Shanghai, the resort is the culmination of years of careful restoration and conservation efforts and safeguards priceless natural and cultural treasures. Amanyangyun features 13 antique resort villas and 24 guest suites that offer serenity in the heart of historic China. The villas are actual, centuries-old structures from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and each one is equipped with its own swimming pool and a heated Jacuzzi. The resort is home to a spa and six dining venues, including an all-day dining pavilion, Chinese restaurant, informal lakeside café, Aman Deli, and a 200-seat banquet hall.

• Hotel website: Amanyangyun

43. THE BULGARI HOTEL SHANGHAI, CHINA

The Bulgari Hotel in Shanghai presides in the uppermost 8 floors of a 40-story building located in the extraordinary riverside complex of the historic Jing’an district. The hotel juxtaposes ancient and modern architectural themes in a fascinating reflection of the prestigious Suhe Creek surroundings, called ‘Gold Strand of Shanghai’, home to a flourishing art scene. The Bulgari Hotel, with its 82 rooms and suites – including one extraordinary Bulgari suite – offers some of the largest hotel rooms in Shanghai. Its Italian rooftop restaurant and bar are destined to become one of the most desirable venues in Shanghai. Besides the highest standard of service for which Bulgari is famous, the hotel also feature remarkable amenities, including a magnificent spa.

• Hotel website: The Bulgari Hotel Shanghai

44. THE MIDDLE HOUSE SHANGHAI, CHINA

Designed by renowned Italian architect Piero Lissoni, the hotel and residences offer intimate luxury that radiate urban sophistication, providing an elegant and calm oasis amidst the dynamic backdrop of one of Asia’s most sophisticated cities. The spirit of modern-day Shanghai is palpable through The Middle House’s 111 modern studios, varying from 50 sqm to 100 sqm. The Middle House also features a 660 sqm top-floor Penthouse overlooking fashionable Nanjing West Road. The immaculately designed two-bedroom suite offers private terraces, a lounge and an exclusive event space with a private kitchen. The Middle House is the sixth hotel in Asia from Swire Hotels and the fourth House under Swire Hotels’ award-winning – The House Collective.

• Hotel website: The Middle House Shanghai

45. THE SHANGHAI EDITION, CHINA

The Shanghai EDITION, located at the northeast corner of Nanjing Road East and Henan Road in Puxi, West of Huangpu River and just a 5 minute walk from The Bund, is a unique combination of two separate towers featuring 145 guest rooms. The hotel’s design includes 10 levels of public space including 5 meeting studios and 2 forums, totaling to over 265 square meters. Food and beverage outlets include a signature Japanese restaurant on the 27th floor, a Cantonese dining venue featuring 5 private dining rooms, an all-day dining venue, 3 lounge bars, an indoor nightlife venue and 2 rooftop bars.

• Hotel website: The Shanghai EDITION

46. THE ST REGIS CHANGSHA, CHINA

The St. Regis Changsha offers 188 exquisitely styled guest rooms and suites, boasting sweeping views of the city, forming a luxurious respite from the frenetic pace of urban life. The rooms are beautifully designed and decorated with subtle Chinese touches. Guests can rejuvenate in The St. Regis Athletic Club or the top-level swimming pool. Accomplished chefs present exquisite dining experiences in six excellent restaurants and bar. Spanning 2,000 sqm Grand Ballroom and other eight elegant meeting rooms provide magnificent settings for business and social events. Expect sumptuous décor and high-end amenities with subtle Chinese touches. Every experience is enhanced with St. Regis Butler Service, available any time, day or night.

• Hotel website: The St Regis Changsha

47. THE ST REGIS ZHUHAI, CHINA

Overlooking the Wanzai shoreline and just a short ferry ride from bustling Macau, The St. Regis Zhuhai occupies floors 41 to 72 of the Zhuhai Tower, the city’s newest landmark in the business district. Palm tree-lined coastlines and easy access to alluring islands have made Zhuhai a popular travel destination, while its location on the west bank of the Pearl River Delta has made it a key economic city in Southern China. All 251 guest rooms have panoramic views of the waterways of the Greater Bay area, as well as the historical landscapes and bridge structures of Macau and Zhuhai.  The hotel offers an epicurean journey in its five distinctive restaurants and bars. There’s also an Iridium Spa on the 68th floor.

• Hotel website: The St Regis Zhuhai

48. W XI’AN, CHINA

With its neon coating shining each night, W Xi-an is quickly becoming an iconic feature on the Xi’an city skyline. The hotel’s design fuses the past and future of Xi’an, showcasing the vibrant history of the region with dynamic visual displays taking guests through five ancient dynasties that once called Xi’an home. The hotel features five intricate labyrinths inspired by the Zhou, Qin, Han, Sui and Tang dynasties. The 385 guest rooms and suites bring W guests a bold representation of Xi’an culture. Large-scale artworks show off the renowned make up style of the Tang dynasty with a colourful modern twist from ATG Beyond, China’s renowned premiere applied design expert.

• Hotel website: W Xi-an

49. JUMEIRAH NANJING, CHINA

Located approximately 40 minutes’ drive from the airport and a one-hour train ride from Shanghai, Jumeirah Nanjing is set in the Hexi new business district and in close proximity to office buildings and a conference centre. The mixed-use development comprises office and retail space, a conference centre, a 4-star hotel and a luxury Jumeirah hotel.  Designed by architect Zaha Hadid, the 250-room hotel includes 32 suites, an all-day dining and Chinese specialty restaurant, café, lobby lounge, tea lounge, bar, junior ballroom, executive club lounge, business centre, fitness centre, Talise Spa and an indoor swimming pool.

• Hotel website: Jumeirah Nanjing

50. THE MURRAY, HONG KONG, CHINA

As one of eight historic landmarks under the Conserving Central initiative introduced by the Hong Kong government in 2013, The Murray is an inspiring piece of architecture holding almost 50 years of history, and a landmark building located in the heart of the city in Central, Hong Kong. A high-profile preservation project converted into a luxury hotel, The Murray includes 336 sophisticated suites and guestrooms spanning 25 floors, offering some of the city’s most spacious accommodation. Interiors are embellished with natural fabrics and stones, leathers and plush textiles creating a contemporary chic sanctuary and an ambience of understated sophistication.

• Hotel website: The Murray Hong Kong

51. SIX SENSES FIJI

Known for its idyllic crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, thick tropical forests and excellent climate, Six Senses Fiji is located in a magnificent secluded bay on Fiji’s Malolo Island. The private golden sand beach frontage stretches over 2,100 feet (650 meters) in length. Six Senses Fiji offers 24 spacious pool bures (villas), all with private plunge pools, plus an additional inventory of residences, offering from two to five bedrooms. With several food and beverage outlets serving delicious, locally inspired dishes, watersports including sailing and surfing, Six Senses Spa with a yoga pavilion and Alchemy Bar and a weekly activity schedule taking you on out-of-the-ordinary experiences, there is something for everyone at Six Senses Fiji.

• Hotel website: Six Senses Fiji

52. W BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

W Brisbane is a stylish addition to the up and coming riverside area in Brisbane, appealing to the new generation of domestic and international visitors to the city. The mixed-use development  comprises three separate towers – W Brisbane occupies one tower, while the other two towers are used for premium office, commercial space and high-end residences. The hotel offers 305 stylish guestrooms, including 25 suites and an Extreme Wow Suite, the W brand’s reinterpretation of the traditional Presidential Suite. It also features more than 960 square metres of ultra-modern meeting and event space, as well as a 24-hour business centre, a state-of-the-art workout facility, and an indoor heated swimming pool.

• Hotel website: W Brisbane

53. PARAMOUNT HOTEL SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

Set within Sydney’s Surry Hills neighbourhood, two buildings – the original 1940s former headquarters of Paramount Picture Studios and the adjoining film storage warehouse – have been stitched together by Melbourne-based architects Breathe, to create the new Paramount House Hotel. The property houses 29 rooms, a new restaurant, and a wellness space to the already existing residents which include the Paramount Coffee Project Café, the Golden Age Cinema & Bar and chic co-working area called The Office Space. A newly added rooftop copper-clad extension to the warehouse creates visual drama from the outside, while inside, it functions as a privacy screen casting strips of sunlight into indoor-outdoor terraces.

• Hotel website: Paramount House Hotel

54. MANDARIN ORIENTAL, CANOUAN, ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

Located in St. Vincent and The Grenadines, the Mandarin Oriental, Canouan sits on an immaculate stretch of Godahl Beach that is protected by the Caribbean’s largest natural living coral reef. The resort elegantly blends colonial and chic contemporary styles among its lavish suites and stylishly sophisticated villas. The resort features a selection of restaurants that serve a variety of international culinary delights in beautifully appointed settings. The spa indulges guests with stunning sea-views in en suite, hillside treatment palapas and therapists meticulously trained to relax, sooth and decompress. Canouan Island’s immaculate beaches, championship 18-hole, Fazio-designed golf course and luxury super-yacht marina provide a wide range of activities to be enjoyed.

• Hotel website: Mandarin Oriental, Canouan

55. ROSEWOOD BAHA MAR RESORT, BAHAMAS

Although Rosewood temporarily cancelled its new Bahamas property two years ago due to problems with the former developers of the Baha Mar Resort, the Rosewood Baha Mar Resort finally opened in June 2018. Inspired by the relaxed tempo of island life with architecture and interior styling inspired by a modern Bahamian estate, Rosewood Baha Mar epitomizes Bahamian refinement and sophistication. The resort offers 237 guestrooms, suites and beachfront villas, which are contemporary and residential in style. Each accommodation is elegantly appointed with refined Bahamian art and décor. Of note, all guestrooms boast private balconies with outdoor living areas, while the luxurious four-bedroom villas offers exceptional tranquility, exclusive services and a private pool.

• Hotel website: Rosewood Baha Mar Resort

56. SILVERSANDS, GRENADA

Set on the silver-white sands of Grand Anse Beach on the island’s southwestern tip, Silversands Grenada is a sleek and contemporary boutique property comprising 43 suites and nine villas. The hotel’s aesthetic is cool and pared-down, with lots of pale marble, blond wood and a palette of greyish neutrals. Anchored by a 100 m (328 ft) pool – the longest in the Caribbean – the hotel is defined by its offering of an unpretentious luxury experience radiating with the warmth, originality and energy of the ‘Spice Island’ of Grenada. Guests and the eventual buyers of the nine residential villas share a spa retreat, a beach club and two globally inspired restaurants.

• Hotel website: Silversands Grenada

57. VICEROY LOS CABOS, MEXICO

Viceroy Los Cabos is located in the heart of San José del Cabo on the picturesque coast of Baja California. Originally concepted by Mexico-based architect, Miguel Angel Aragonés, and formally known as Mar Adentro, the 194-room masterpiece has re-emerged as a Viceroy property after undergoing renovations and enhancements. With a dreamscape design embracing the natural beauty of water throughout every facet of the resort, the Viceroy Los Cabos is a canvas for discovery with cinematic views and alluring experiences around every turn. Completely reconceptualized and brand new to the resort are a beachfront pool and bar, a refreshed and vibrant lobby and arrival experience, five dining venues, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

• Hotel website: Viceroy Los Cabos

58. SOLAZ, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL & RESORT, MEXICO

Located midway between the bustling resort town of Cabo San Lucas and the historic San Jose del Cabo, Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort, rises like a modern mirage out of the dusty Carretera Transpeninsula.  The resort features 128 contemporary guestrooms and including 115 deluxe rooms, 12 exquisitely appointed Los Cabos suites and a stunning Presidential Suite. Each room is exquisitely designed with local Mexican Huanacaxtle wood and bamboo textured marble, marble floors, custom furnishings and an original wall sculpture by César Lopez-Negrete. You’re likely to spend most of your time posted by one of the resort’s 50 m (164 ft) infinity pools, which have been designed to dazzle.

• Hotel website: Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort

59. NOMAD LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, USA

The NoMad Hotel Los Angeles continues in the spirit of the original NoMad in New York by taking residence in the historic building, Giannini Place. Originally built in the 1920s as the headquarters for The Bank of Italy, the building’s gold and blue Italianate lobby ceiling has been fully restored and serves as inspiration throughout. Honoring its rich history, The NoMad Downtown LA Hotel naturally balances the integrity and character of the Neoclassical landmark with a contemporary California design. Each of the 241 rooms and suites is appointed with custom-designed furnishings, original artwork curated by Paris-based design studio be-poles, and Bellino linens. Many rooms also feature freestanding pedestal bathtubs and separate water closets.

• Hotel website: NoMad Los Angeles

60. VENTANA BIG SUR, AN ALILA RESORT, BIG SUR, CALIFORNIA

62. UNDER CANVAS MOUNT RUSHMORE, SOUTH DAKOTA, USA

Tucked away on the outskirts of an original gold mining settlement, Under Canvas provides an incredible glamping experience in a majestic location with monumental views of “The Shrine of Democracy”, Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Here, you discover a touch of luxury in the Old West while glamping under the stars, and experience unique Black Hills lodging you’ll remember for a lifetime. The camp seamlessly blends into the dramatic surroundings of the Black Hills and the safari-inspired canvas tents provide all the luxuries of home. A stay at Under Canvas also means endless adventure with opportunities to explore all that the Black Hills of South Dakota has to offer. Take a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour or discover the Old West on horseback!

• Hotel website: Under Canvas Mount Rushmore

63. PERRY LANE HOTEL, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, SAVANNAH, GEORGIA, USA

Stationed amid the city just steps away from the iconic Forsyth Park, Perry Lane Hotel invites guests to come and immerse themselves in all that is Savannah. Perry Lane Hotel offers you the perfect place to stay in style as you explore the vibrant city. This newly minted member of the esteemed Luxury Collection boasts 167 refreshingly elegant guest rooms, including 12 luxurious suites. Three lively food and beverage venues create a thriving social atmosphere, while the expansive art collection, 9,125 sq. ft. of event space and ever-changing calendar of local on- and off-property programming add up to a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

• Hotel website: Perry Lane Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel

64. FAIRMONT AUSTIN, TEXAS, USA

A towering icon within a vibrant Central Business District, Fairmont Austin is uniquely located amid the lush greenery of Palm Park and Waller Creek and directly connected to the Austin Convention Center. The newly opened 37-story luxury hotel features 1,048 richly appointed guest rooms and suites with picturesque vistas of Lady Bird Lake, a dramatic cityscape and the State Capitol. Guests indulge in exquisite dining, a pampering spa and state-of-the-art meeting facilities. Fairmont Austin engages guests with the city’s famed music scene, as well as the area’s celebrated cuisine and diverse artistic lifestyle.

• Hotel website: Fairmont Austin

65. ST REGIS TORONTO, CANADA

The St Regis Toronto is a beacon on the Toronto skyline, offering visitors a remcentral location between the entertainment and financial districts. Within close walking distance from preeminent shopping, live theatre, sports and entertainment venues, the hotel places guests just moments from the city’s most distinguished landmarks including the CN Tower, Union Station, and Toronto International Film Festival. Boasting 258 spacious guest rooms, including 124 luxury suites – the most suites of any luxury hotel in Canada – modern elegance and bespoke service come together at The St. Regis Toronto.

• Hotel website: St Regis Toronto

66. THE SANTA MARIA, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL & GOLF RESORT, PANAMA

The Santa Maria, A Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort, is a five-star urban resort catering to discerning travelers seeking an authentic connection to the destination. The hotel features 182 guest rooms and suites with authentic Panamanian design elements. Surrounded by views of the Championship Nicklaus Design golf course, the resort has three restaurants, a state-of-the-art spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool overlooking the golf course. Designed for the current generation of global explorers who seek authentic cultural experiences, the resort offers guests access to some of the destination’s unique cultural attractions, including the iconic and historic landmark of Panama Viejo, the world-famous Panama Canal and the country’s islands and rainforest.

• Hotel website: The Santa Maria, A Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort

67. W PANAMA, REPUBLIC OF PANAMA

W Panama is part of the 50-floor Evolution Tower, a mixed-use building in Panama City’s financial district. It offers a fully integrated, contemporary lifestyle experience, including 203 stylish guest rooms, with 24 suites, three Wow suites, and one Extreme Wow suite (the W brand’s take on the Presidential Suite), two signature restaurants, the W Living Room experience (reinterpretation of the traditional hotel lobby), destination nightclub, the pool deck, spa and 8,400 square foot fitness facility. It is the first W hotel in the country and has already become the new social hotspot in the city a few months after its opening.

• Hotel website: W Panama

68. W COSTA RICA – RESERVA CONCHAL, COSTA RICA

Plugged into and buffered from it all, standing tall between beautiful beaches and the mangroves, W Costa Rica brings a fresh spin to a Costa Rica adventure. Nature gets boldly reinterpreted upon arrival, with a Living Room inspired by the local Guanacaste tree. The 150 locally influenced rooms and suites come with a surf culture inspired MIX Bar, with a keg of Imperial Ale ready to be tapped upon your arrival. Each room has a headboard inspired by local artwork, and a fully glass enclosed shower providing incredible views. Natural elements harmonize with a modern sensibility throughout our resort in Costa Rica. Guests van lounge on the pool deck or at the W Beach Club, be pampered in the spa, work out at the gym, and swing away at Reserva Conchal Golf Course.

• Hotel website: W Costa Rica

69. AWASI IGUAZU, ARGENTINA

Located just 15 minutes from the world’s largest waterfalls, Awasi’s new 12-room lodge is situated on the banks of the River Iguazú. Built on stilts for minimal environmental impact, the 12 villas are spread throughout the jungle, each positioned for utmost privacy but within easy distance of the main lodge. Each villa is assigned with a private guide and 4WD, allowing guests to explore at their own pace, visiting where they want, when they want, and for however long they want. After days spent exploring the impressive natural scenery in and around the Iguazú Falls, guests return to Awasi for a swim in their plunge pool, a drink at the bar in the main lodge and long evening meals in the restaurant.

• Hotel website: Awasi Iguazu

70. FOUR SEASONS SAO PAULO, BRAZIL

The Four Seasons Sao Paulo on Avenida Nações Unidas (Avenue United Nations) places guests just steps from corporate offices, plus shopping, entertainment and South America’s best medical facilities.  The domestic Congonhas-São Paulo Airport is just 20 minutes away, and São Paulo International Airport is about one hour by car. Located amid the leafy green spaces along the Pinheiros river in southern Sao Paulo, the all-new 29-storey tower include the 258-room hotel as well as 84 Four Seasons private residences designed by Studio Arthur Casas, along with restaurants, spa, meeting rooms and other facilities.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Sao Paulo

71. SIX SENSES KAPLANKAYA, TURKEY

Six Senses Kaplankaya is set on the diverse Aegean coastline, blending world-class contemporary design with natural beauty and history. Nestled in the breathtaking natural beauty of this ancient land, the resort lies directly on the waterfront in Turgutreis, approximately 20 km (12 mi) from the centre of Bodrum. Undulating hills clad in evergreens, wild olives and cypresses amplify the invitation extended by warm breezes and the turquoise sea’s gently lapping waves. Presenting a robust mosaic of architecture, history and art, the resort is within easy reach of many archeological sites including two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The resort features 141 guestrooms and suites, all boasting stunning views to the Aegean Sea, plus 150 residential villas.

• Hotel website: Six Senses Kaplankaya

72. W AMMAN HOTEL, AMMAN, JORDAN

Nestled in the heart of new modern Amman, Abdali, the past meets the future at the new W Amman Hotel where local tradition and history of Jordan are instilled with an unmistakably bold design. Guests begin their discovery by entering through an intriguing canyon walk, a breathtaking recreation inspired by the ancient city of Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The first ever W Hotel in Amman features 280 guest rooms & suites, a number of signature beverage and food outlets, in addition to a multitude of extraordinary W amenities. The hotel is also the only building in the area with a helipad. The W Amman is under the umbrella of Eagle Hills, an Abu Dhabi-based private real estate investment and development company.

• Hotel website: W Amman

73. AL MANARA, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, JORDAN

Reminiscent of a majestic palace, Al Manara, A Luxury Collection Hotel, guards the mouth of Jordan’s Saraya Lagoon, embracing more than 6,000 years of the region’s enigmatic history. Located on the shores of the Red Sea and set against the rugged backdrop of the expansive granite mountain range, the hotel has private sandy beaches where guests can relax and enjoy the year-round temperate climate. As The Luxury Collection’s debut hotel in Jordan, Al Manara is an intimate retreat that combines design and history, reflecting the ancient city of Aqaba, giving it an authentic and enriching Jordanian character. The 208 guestrooms, including 38 suites and 2 villas comprising of 4 exquisite suites each have been styled with indigenous accents and distinctive hallmarks.

• Hotel website: Al Manara

74. THE JAFFA, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, ISRAEL

The Jaffa hotel resides within Tel Aviv-Jaffa, a lifestyle destination renowned for its historical port, local flea market and culinary scene. The hotel pays homage to its historical surroundings, seamlessly blending a section of the 13th century Crusaders Wall from the courtyard into the contemporary lobby. Signature chef restaurant, Don Camillo, infuses international dishes with indigenous flavors and serves a daily Israeli Italian breakfast. The Jaffa houses an outdoor pool, state-of-the-art fitness center and a world class spa. World renowned designer John Pawson’s signature minimalist style, custom furniture, sumptuous beds, lavish bathrooms and luxurious amenities characterize the 120 rooms & suites.

• Hotel website: The Jaffa, a Luxury Collection Hotel

75. THE SETAI TEL AVIV, ISRAEL

Housed within a historic Ottoman building, once used as a jailhouse, The Setai Tel Aviv offers an enviable entryway to the wonders of the Jaffa Port, Tel Aviv’s full beach coastline and steps away from the city’s bustling boulevards and urban hub. The 120-room luxury property comprises five buildings of the former and historical Ottoman prison and police station, imaginatively transformed with contemporary touches and classic refurbishments. The Setai Tel Aviv’s marble and stone corridors connect the buildings and converge within a central courtyard. Original design details and stonework harmoniously compliment modern accents, converging with the restored Turkish Hamam Spa and infinity rooftop pool overlooking the entire Tel Aviv skyline.

• Hotel website: The Setai Tel Aviv

76. JUMEIRAH ROYAL SARAY, BAHREIN

On a private beach in Manama’s new Seef district, sits the majestic Jumeirah Royal Saray. Beautifully enclosed by the Arabian sea, the serene setting of the hotel brings forth a new wave of understated luxury, making Bahrain a highly desirable leisure destination. Jumeirah Royal Saray is a work of art in its own right. The inspired decor of the resort comprises the best materials and unparalleled statement pieces curated from places around the globe. The resort is like a regal Bahraini summer house replete with a coastal feel. The 174 guestrooms, 10 luxurious summer houses and 4 Royal Residences are decked in lush tones of nacre, silver shimmer and ocean blue; tones that are emblematic of the renowned Bahraini pearls.

• Hotel website: Jumeirah Royal Saray

77. KEMPINSKI HOTEL MUSCAT, OMAN

Nestled within the community of Al Mouj Muscat encompassing over six kilometers (3,7 miles) of stunning coastline, the Kempinski Hotel Muscat is a new luxury destination in the capital of Oman. The hotel features 310 comfortable rooms and suites, state-of-the-art meetings and events facilities, a business centre and an executive lounge. Ten world-class restaurants and bars provide a remarkable dining experience. Two swimming pools and a kids pool, a kids club and a tennis court, along with various outdoor and water sport activities will ensure to spend an exciting and adventurous time. The hotel leisure facilities also feature a luxurious spa and a fully equipped health club.

• Hotel website: Kempinski Hotel Muscat

78. EMERALD PALACE KEMPINSKI DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Inspired by palaces of Continental Europe, Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai is a five-star luxury beach resort dedicated to the finest elements of life. Guests are welcome to immerse in an elegantly curated stay, dining and leisure experiences at this landmark destination on Palm Jumeirah, and discover Dubai’s iconic palace by the sea. Each of the spacious rooms and suites is embellished with hand-crafted Italian touches and offset by carefully selected amenities to complete the atmosphere of elegance. The refinement is complemented by exceptional leisure facilities, such as a private beach and lagoon pool, eight culinary experiences including MIX by Alain Ducasse as well as one of the largest wellness centres by Cinq Mondes spa, with 23 treatment rooms.

• Hotel website: Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai

79. AL BAIT SHARJAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

A jewel of the Emirates, Sharjah is GHM’s newest destination for a luxury escape beyond compare. Meaning ‘The Home’, the 53-room Al Bait hotel in Sharjah is nestled within the fulcrum of the UAE’s vibrant landscape, with convenient access to all the wonders this glittering Emirate has to offer. This ambitious restoration and conversion project of these historic manor houses was undertaken with the vision of embodying the cultural renaissance that has swept the Emirate. The property offers first-class gastronomy with traditional and international cuisine, indulgent spas to rejuvenate and more, all in an atmosphere that will take your breath away.

• Hotel website: Al Bait Sharjah

80. JUMEIRAH SA’ADIYAT ISLAND RESORT, ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Set in a prime location on the north-eastern coast of Sa’adiyat Island, the property is the most luxurious five-star resort in Abu Dhabi. Resembling a summer house, its sophisticated interiors offer a backdrop of refined island life and quiet understated luxury. Our seven exciting and indulging dining destinations, an ultraluxe spa with 15 treatment rooms and three outdoor pools, offer thoughtfully personalized service to elevate every moment. The 294 rooms feature expansive sea views and the panoramic suites offer floor-to-ceiling glass walls that open up to the sea breeze. All the villas offer private pools, for a truly exclusive experience.

• Hotel website: Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort

81. GRAND HYATT ABU DHABI HOTEL, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

A short 35 minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the hotel is located along the charming Corniche, offering generous beachfront promenades and stunning landmark city views that feature famed UAE landmarks, including Emirates Palace, the Presidential Palace and The Founder’s Memorial. Meticulously designed with bold and vibrant features, the property houses 332 guestrooms, 36 lavish suites, including the Presidential and Palatial Royal Suites, and 60 full-service one and two-bedroom residences, each thoughtfully conceptualized with key locally inspired details. The hotel is home to a variety of signature bars and restaurants, offers a stunning 50 m (164 ft) outdoor infinity pool, and world-class spa.

• Hotel website: Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel

82. THE ABU DHABI EDITION, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Abu Dhabi EDITION is situated in the downtown district on the waterfront of Al Bateen in the Abu Dhabi Marina. The hotel’s 198 guest rooms are designed using a sophisticated neutral palette. The grey oak timber flooring’s herringbone pattern, drawing inspiration from local basket weaving techniques, contrasts the off-white marble in the bathrooms. The property’s unique food and beverage outlets include 2 signature restaurants, a gourmet market, lobby bar, tea lounge, pool bar and 3-story nightclub.  A pool, state-of-the-art fitness center and spa with 7 treatment rooms are also available for hotel guests. The hotel also has over 107k sq. ft. of meeting and event space including several meeting studios, ballrooms and boardrooms.

• Hotel website: The Abu Dhabi EDITION

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Best new hotels of 2018 appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today: Top 10 best luxury hotels in Dubai

Between its gravity-defying skyscrapers and stunning desert landscape, Dubai is a dazzling metropolis, blending past and present to electrifying effect and offering something for everyone. You can splurge on a shopping spree at Dubai Mall, the world’s second largest shopping mall, encompassing an aquarium, ice rink, and the Dubai Fountain, or bargain for gold in the Gold Souk, a traditional market composed of over 300 gold merchants. You can gaze over the city’s skyline from the 148th floor of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building on earth, and explore Palm Jumeirah, an artificial archipelago featuring a waterpark and dolphin habitat. Or you can escape the heat at Ski Dubai indoor ski resort or bask in the sunshine on Dubai’s beaches. Synonymous with world-class hotels and resorts, this must-visit city is also a luxury traveler’s dream. Here’s my round-up of the 10 best luxury hotels in Dubai.

There is more information below the slideshow. Think I missed one? Share your favorite Dubai hotel in the comments section, or take my poll below!

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

10. ATLANTIS THE PALM DUBAI

This dynamic property is rising in Dubai from the coastline of the largest man-made island in the world, the Palm Island. Positioned as the flagship property it is, Atlantis The Palm is situated at the apex of the Palm Island’s outer crescent, surrounded by the beautifully tranquil sea of the Arabian Gulf. The palatial hotel is one of Dubai’s most impressive resorts, part blockbuster luxury hotel (more than 1,500 rooms and suites!), part aquatic wonderland. The resort has some of the most elegant hotel rooms in Dubai, designed to immerse guests in absolute comfort and unparalleled luxury. The hotel’s underwater suites have breathtaking underwater views, including the “ancient” ruins of the mythical lost city of Atlantis and its 65,000 marine inhabitants. Families will love the hotel’s Aquaventure Waterpark, where they can discover an underwater world at The Lost Chambers Aquarium or meet the incredible marine mammals at Dolphin Bay and Sea Lion Point.

• Hotel website: Atlantis The Palm Dubai
• Other accolades: Atlantis The Palm Dubai also features in my top 10 lists of the best underwater hotels in the world, the world’s best hotel breakfasts, and the best family hotels in the world.

9. PARK HYATT DUBAI

Located in Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht club on the banks of the majestic Dubai Creek, Park Hyatt Dubai provides an idyllic setting for a luxury getaway. This 5 star resort offers 223 luxury rooms including 34 suites, all of which offer stunning views overlooking the Dubai Creek and marina. The hotel’s award-winning dining venues offer the finest in Western, Thai and French cuisines. With floor-to-ceiling windows, wood-fired ovens and theatre kitchens, the hotel brings excitement and style to dining, both indoor and al fresco.​ As a premium Dubai city resort, the property also offers its guests a number of exciting activities such as Seawings, the aerial seaplane taking off of Dubai Creek and an 18-hole, par-71 championship course that rolls into thousands of undulating yards, or pampering spa treatments at the luxury Amara Spa, one of the finest Dubai spas.

• Hotel website: Park Hyatt Dubai
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Park Hyatt Dubai via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).

8. JUMEIRAH AL QASR

Al Qasr means ‘The Palace’ – and this hotel truly is the jewel in the crown of Madinat Jumeirah (or ‘city of Jumeirah’). Designed in the style of a Sheikh’s summer residence, the hotel replicates traditional royal architecture, coupled with luxurious modernity throughout. Approached along a tree-lined avenue, adorned with beautifully sculpted Arabian horses, the hotel itself will take your breath away. The design of 292 rooms is a tribute to the age-old architectural styles of Arabia. As part of the magnificent Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Al Qasr offers all the facilities and activities of the wider resort, with traditional wooden abra boats transporting guests to more than 40 world-class restaurants and bars. The resort boasts a re-creation of an ancient market, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, with 70-plus boutiques and galleries, a mile-long private stretch of beach, watersports, 19 indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and complimentary access to Wild Wadi Water Park.

• Hotel website: Jumeirah Al Qasr
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Jumeirah Al Qasr via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, a bottle of wine in room on arrival, one dinner for two, and one 60 min massage for two).

7. FOUR SEASONS DUBAI AT JUMEIRAH BEACH

Bringing fresh, sophisticated style to dynamic Dubai, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach captures the city’s energy and excitement in a glamorous beach resort. Boasting a palatial lobby, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows looking out onto the beautiful gardens and Arabian Gulf, the property is an oasis nestled into the heart of the exclusive Jumeirah area. With polished marble and custom Murano chandeliers, it exudes luxury with understated elegance. The 237 spacious accommodations – including 49 suites – offer views of the Arabian Gulf on one side and Burj Khalifa and the downtown skyline on the other. Three pools, watersports and many shopping and dining outlets provide plenty of activities to occupy all.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).

6. RAFFLES THE PALM DUBAI

Inspired by palaces of continental Europe, Raffles The Palm Dubai -formerly known as the Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai – is a five-star luxury beach resort dedicated to the finest elements of life. Guests are welcome to immerse in an elegantly curated stay, dining and leisure experiences at this landmark destination on Palm Jumeirah, and discover Dubai’s iconic palace by the sea. Each of the spacious rooms and suites is embellished with hand-crafted Italian touches and offset by carefully selected amenities to complete the atmosphere of elegance. The refinement is complemented by exceptional leisure facilities, such as a private beach and lagoon pool, five culinary experiences including a Japanese restaurant as well as one of the largest wellness center – Cinq Mondes Spa – with 23 treatment rooms.

• Hotel website: Raffles The Palm Dubai

5. ONE&ONLY THE PALM

Chic and glamorous, One&Only The Palm is an exquisite low-rise boutique oasis located on the lush, landscaped private peninsula of the Palm Island crescent. Blending Moorish and Andalusian architecture with contemporary chic interiors, the property consists of 90 rooms and four exclusive beachfront villas. At One&Only The Palm, you can hide away from the everyday and soak up the sun beside shimmering pools and the private, white-sand beach; capture the calm of the day in the Guerlain Spa, set amidst ponds, fountains and open courtyards; and tantalize your palate with an enviable selection of bars and restaurants under the culinary guidance of three-Michelin-stars Chef Yannick Alléno. Across the water is One&Only Royal Mirage, the property’s equally stunning sister resort, where the world’s most discerning travelers are also assured of a warm welcome, understated luxury and discreet, attentive service.

• Hotel website: One&Only The Palm
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking One&Only The Palm and/or One&Only Royal Mirage via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and one dinner for two).

4. ARMANI HOTEL DUBAI

The Armani Hotel Dubai is located within Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, and part of a mixed use development consisting of 160 rooms and 144 residences. The downtown hotel is up to the 8th floor and then 38th and 39th floors, and the residences occupy levels 9 to 16 of the Burj Khalifa Tower. The property is suave and understated, with each design detail personally chosen by Giorgio Armani himself. Behind guestroom doors, understated elegance reigns: walls are adorned with handmade leather from Florence, floors covered with Japanese tatami, and bathrooms clad in gray stones from Alicante, Spain, all blending seamlessly with the clean, curved lines of the tower’s architecture. The elegant Armani/SPA tailors every experience to each guest and features a lovely outdoor pool wrapping around one of Burj Khalifa’s corners. The hotel’s dining venues serve Italian, Mediterranean, Japanese and Indian cuisine.

• Hotel website: Armani Hotel Dubai
• Other accolades: Armani Hotel Dubai features in my top 10 lists of the world’s best city hotels and best hotels owned by celebrities.
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Armani Hotel Dubai via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, one lunch or dinner for two, and $35 USD spa credit).
• Review: read my review of Armani Hotel Dubai here.

3. BURJ AL ARAB

The distinctive sail-shaped silhouette of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, a glittering architectural marvel in the middle of the Arabian Gulf, is more than just a stunning hotel, it is an emblem of modern Dubai, a world-famous icon, and a symbol of extreme wealth, hence making the resort very popular among the rich and famous. Still the only (self-proclaimed) 7 star super luxury hotel in the world, Burj Al Arab offers oversized suite-only accommodation, with each suite composed of two floors that are connected by a marble staircase. Here, you can soothe your soul in a spa-like bathroom with Jacuzzi, mosaic floor, and full-size Hermes products. The opulent lobby, dotted with huge golden columns, leads to several boutiques and exquisite restaurants. The property also features a spectacular outdoor deck area, floating above the sea, which includes two pools, a restaurant and a bar.

• Hotel website: Burj Al Arab
• Other accolades: Burj Al Arab also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s most instagrammable hotels, the world’s most amazing hotel lobbies, the world’s most outrageous, over-the-top hotel experiences, the world’s most expensive hotels, the world’s best hotel redemptions, and hotels with private helipads.
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Burj Al Arab via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and a 50 min massage for two).

2. THE BVLGARI RESORT DUBAI

1. AL MAHA, A LUXURY COLLECTION DESERT RESORT & SPA

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, is nestled among the lush palm groves, emerald canopies and iconic sand dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve where desert wildlife abounds. Offering secluded tranquility and iconic vistas of the sweeping plains and Hajar Mountain massif, the property showcases the heritage and architecture of the Bedouins and also offers a sense of desert adventure. Offering unsurpassed luxury, the suites – reminiscent of Bedouin tents – are faced far apart and blend gently into the desert. Beautifully furnished with a unique collection of authentic Arabian artifacts and antiquities, all suites boast private pools with spectacular views of the desert and its wildlife (gazelles & Arabian oryx). A stay at Al Maha includes all meals and two activities per night’s stay (choose from a camel ride with sundowners, archery, nature walks and more).

• Hotel website: Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa
• Other accolades: Al Maha Desort Resort also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s best desert retreats, hotel rooms with a spectacular view and the world’s most luxurious glamping sites.
• Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Al Maha Desert Resort via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read my review of Al Maha Desort Resort here.

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Top 10 best luxury hotels in Dubai appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today (September 24, 2018): Top 10: most luxurious resorts in Bali (Indonesia). 

Located between Java and Lombok, the Indonesian island of Bali – often called the Island of the Gods – is a world-acclaimed island paradise for a reason, although its popularity has taken its toll in certain areas. The varied volcanic landscape of rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and verdant rice terraces provides a picturesque backdrop to Bali’s colourful, deeply spiritual and unique culture. Bali’s five-star resorts rank amongst the most exclusive in the world, with most of them located in Nusa Dua, Seminyak and Ubud. Ubud’s hotels cater to those who prefer spas and cultural pursuits, while surfing and other beach activities can be found at the sophisticated beachfront communities of Nusa Dua and Seminyak. I hereby present you a list of my 10 favorite luxury resorts in Bali.

There is more info below the slide show. Think I missed one? Share your favorite Bali resort in the comments section, or take my poll below!

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

10. BANYAN TREE UNGASAN, ULUWATU

Banyan Tree Ungasan sits 70 m (230 ft) above sea level on the southern tip of Bali, close to the famed Uluwatu Temple, overlooking a gold sand beach and the blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Most of the resort’s 73 palatial villas enjoy a view of the sea and they all come with a plunge pool, outdoor hot tube, and plenty of retractable floor-to-ceiling glass, instantly turning bedrooms into open-air cabanas. Traditional Balinese accents and modern Asian decorations are fused throughout the interiors, and occasional carvings or statuettes tweak the well-honed Banyan Tree aesthetic. The property features several excellent dining venues (although the in-villa barbecue prepared by a personal chef is not te be missed) and a world-class spa.

• Hotel website: Banyan Tree Ungasan
• Other accolades: Banyan Tree Ungasan features in my top 10 list of my favorite Banyan Tree hotels in the world.
• Review: read my review of Banyan Tree Ungasan here.

9. AMANDARI, UBUD

Inspired by a traditional village, Amandari is framed by jungle and rice terraces in Bali’s cultural heartland. Alang-alang-thatched houses – some with pools, all with private tropical gardens – cosset guests under bamboo ceilings, their suites elegantly decorated with teak and coconut-wood. The grounds of Aman’s Ubud outpost are both sacred and essential to local families: children attend dance classes here, and religious processions pass through regularly, leading down the steps that spill below Amandari to a 7th-century stone tiger – a motif repeated throughout the property. Guests can follow the road out of the village to hike or bike the emerald-green landscape; or head further afield for artisan villages, hidden temples, and the palaces and boutiques of Ubud.

• Hotel website: Amandari
• Other accolades: Amandari also features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Ubud.
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and one lunch or dinner for 2).
• Review: read my review of Amandari here.

8. BVLGARI RESORT BALI, ULUWATU

The Bvlgari Resort Bali, at the time the second hotel opening by the prestigious Bvlgari group, is located on top of a 150 m (450 ft) high, jaw-dropping cliff cascading down towards the Indian Ocean. A pristine private beach, suitable for long walks along the oceanfront and featuring a private beach club, is reached via an inclined elevator. The 59 individual villas, freestanding and private, all include an open-air pavilion, terrace and private plunge pool, with the ones on the first row enjoying spectacular ocean views. In all villas, every natural element is polished to a shine: Indonesian wood floors glow, natural lava walls are neatly bricked, and floor-to-ceiling glass walls reveal manicured tropical plants.

• Hotel website: Bvlgari Resort Bali
• Other accolades: The Bvlgari Resort also features in my top 10 list of the most spectacular cliffside luxury hotels in the world.
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read my review of Bvlgari Resort Bali here.

7. THE ST REGIS BALI RESORT, NUSA DUA

Radiating beachfront elegance, the St. Regis Bali Resort is a spectacular destination offering outstanding opulence and award-winning refined luxury to the world’s most discerning travelers. The property is located in Nusa Dusa, a prestigious resort enclave built for the purpose of providing tourists a comfortable area for carefree holidays. Spacious luxury defines 123 beautifully appointed suites and villas, each appointed with handcrafted Balinese art, inviting balconies and marble bathrooms. All accommodations have access to calm, swimmable lagoons and private signature St. Regis Butler Service. Award-winning dining venues, bars, the distinctive Remède spa, fitness center and a children’s learning center are also on-site.

• Hotel website: The St Regis Bali Resort
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, round-trip private airport transfers, one time afternoon tea for two at King Cole bar, and a 60 minute Aqua Vitale pool treatment for up to 2 persons).

6. ALILA VILLAS ULUWATU

Alila Villas Uluwatu is located in the dry savannah landscape of the Bukit Peninsular in the south of the island. Poised on an elevated plateau that meets with limestone cliffs sweeping down the Indian Ocean, the view from the hotel is nothing less than breathtaking. Blending in with these spectacular surroundings, the architecture of the hotel combines the delights of traditional Balinese pavilion architecture and rural landscapes with modern dynamic treatment of space and form. The spectacular yet serene, open-plan rooms with minimalistic interiors are designed to impart comfort and space.

• Hotel website: Alila Villas Uluwatu
• Other accolades: Alila villas Uluwatu also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s best honeymoon resorts and the world’s best luxury hotels.
• Tip: enjoy free VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).
• Review: read my review of Alila Villas Uluwatu here.

5. FOUR SEASONS RESORT BALI AT SAYAN, UBUD

Voted #1 hotel in the world by Travel + Leisure in 2018, Four Seasons Resort Sayan encapsulates Bali at its philosophical and soulful best: a sublime hillside haven where man, humanity and nature unite with purest intent. Only a ten-minute drive from the stylish boutiques, artist ateliers and atmospheric eateries of boho-chic Ubud, Four Seasons Sayan is an inspiring base from which to explore Bali’s cultural heart or to retreat into nature’s meditative embrace. Guests arrive via a dramatic bridge, beneath which the Ayung River valley spreads its tropical arms. From the gravity-defying rooftop lotus pond, the property cascades down the hill to the two-tiered swimming pool, cantilevered over the river, through an enchanting forest that cocoons just 60 suites and villas.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
• Other accolades: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s most spectacular hotel lobbies and the best luxury hotels in Ubud.
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD spa credit).
• Review: read my review of Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan here.

4. SIX SENSES ULUWATU, BALI

The newly opened Six Senses Uluwatu Resort is set in Pecatu in the southernmost tip of Bali which is the home of “Pura Uluwatu”, the sacred temple considered one of the island’s core spiritual pillars. The beautiful cliff-top Balinese-inspired Uluwatu resort offers uninterrupted ocean views from every angle. The resort comprises 103 suites and villas, inspired by local design, embracing nature and offering every creature comfort. The Six Senses Spa features locally inspired specialty treatments, multi-day integrated wellness programs and complimentary morning yoga sessions. The resort features multiple swimming pools, an open air event venue, function space, three restaurants including a chef’s table, a cooking school and an extensive organic garden and farm.

• Hotel website: Six Senses Uluwatu
• Save money: get complimentary VIP perks at Six Senses Uluwatu when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and one complimentary 60 min massage for two).

3. MANDAPA, A RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE, UBUD

Deriving its name from the Sanskrit word for “temple,” Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, stands as a tropical shrine dedicated to the self. Fronting the Ayung River near the Ubud jungle, the hotel replicates a traditional Balinese village, complete with working rice paddies. Showcasing the architecture and craftsmanship of the area, each of the 60 luxury suites and villas features a private outdoor space (some of them with pools) with views of the river or surrounding scenery. Four restaurants serve health-conscious cuisine sourced from the organic garden, although you can also arrange a romantic dinner overlooking the river or rice terrace. The spa offers a variety of programs focused on physical and spiritual well-being.

• Hotel website: Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
• Other accolades: Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton reserve also features in my top 10 lists of the best luxury hotels in Ubud and best luxury hotels in Indonesia.
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read my review of Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve here.

2. FOUR SEASONS RESORT BALI AT JIMBARAN BAY

Designed as a traditional Balinese village, this luxurious all-villa enclave spreads across 14 hectares (35 acres) of oceanfront in Bali, giving resort guests direct access to the beach right at sea level. The resort offers 147 villas set amid lush tropical gardens. The luxurious villas – each with a private plunge pool – terrace down a hillside woven with brilliant flowers and Balinese temples. Here, you can steep yourself in local island culture, unwind with holistic spa treatments and enjoy a wide range of dining options, including the beachfront Sundara restaurant. More sensory delights await at open-air Taman Wantilan restaurant, where theatre-style dining is presented by a brigade of specialty chefs at nine culinary exhibitions or show kitchens.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay
• Other accolades: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay also features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Indonesia.
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD spa credit).
• Review: read my review of Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay here.

1. AMANKILA

Mount Agung provides a dramatic backdrop for Amankila (peaceful hill), a secluded seaside resort overlooking the Lombok Strait and managed by Aman, the world’s most exclusive hotel brand. The 34 free-standing thatched-roof suites offer exceptional views from their hillside locations, and are connected to the resort’s facilities by raised walkways. Guests can relax around the signature three-tiered pool or at the beach club on Amankila’s beach, with its silverblack sands and turquoise waters. What separates Amankila from other luxury Bali hotels is that it is situated in Karangasem, one of Bali’s most traditional regencies, offering easy access to untouched rural countryside, local crafts and the region’s royal past.

• Hotel website: Amankila
• Other accolades: Amankila also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s most beautiful hotel pools and the best luxury hotels in Indonesia.
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and one lunch or dinner for 2).
• Review: read my review of Amankila here.

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Top 10 best luxury hotels & resorts in Bali appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Today (April 27, 2018): April 2018 luxury travel news.

Every last Friday of the month, you can read my news round-up of what’s happening in the world of luxury travel. In this issue:

1. Waldorf Astoria returns to the Maldives in 2019
2. Gulf Air’s first Dreamliner takes to the skies
3. First luxury hotel in space announced
4. One&Only announces its newest brand evolution
5. The Queen Elizabeth II cruise ship is now a hotel in Dubai
6. Bvlgari announces an ultra-luxe Tokyo property
7. Oman Air reveals its new First Class cabin
8. KLM will install a new Business Class seat on its B787-10
9. Brussels Airlines plans an overhaul of its long-haul interiors
10. Airbus and Zodiac reveal lower deck sleeping berths
11. Tampa, Florida, is getting an EDITION hotel

1. Waldorf Astoria returns to the Maldives in 2019

According to Maldives Insider, Hilton’s top luxury brand Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Resorts is set to foray into the Maldives, with the opening of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi Resort in early 2019. The resort will span three islands in South Male Atoll that are accessible by a short 20-minute speedboat ride from the Maldives’ main Velana International Airport. The resort will have 138 beach and overwater villas, ranging from one to three bedroom villas and a four-bedroom presidential suite, carefully positioned to guarantee exclusivity and privacy for the guests while providing them with unsurpassed views of the ocean. Each villa will be equipped with a private outdoor pool, jacuzzi and lounge deck area. The simple thatched roofed villas may appear simple on the outside, but on the inside they will be decked with luxurious interior furnishing and will come with branded amenities. Some overwater villas will also have spectacular glass flooring for breathtaking views of the lagoon below. There will be a palatial spa as well as numerous food and beverage offerings that cater to a diverse culinary palette.

2. Gulf Air first Dreamliner takes to the skies 

Gulf Air received its first Boeing B787 Dreamliner  this week, which will serve Gulf Air’s double daily London Heathrow service, offering increased capacity and enhanced, superior on-board products and services, from 15th June 2018. A total of 5 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft will have entered Gulf Air’s fleet by end-2018 with an additional 2 aircraft arriving by end-2019 and 3 arriving by end-2020. Gulf Air’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner orders will ensure it maintains one of the youngest fleets in the region while building upon its award-winning reliability, on time performance and product and service standards. Gulf Air’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will offer 282 seats in a two-class configuration, with 26 Falcon Gold Class seats (apex suites) and 256 Economy Class seats. The industry-leading technology of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner boasts superior fuel efficiency, environmentally friendly operations and range flexibility that will facilitate Gulf Air’s planned network expansion and fleet optimisation at a lower operating cost. The photos released by Gul Air reveal a stunning cabin design.

3. First luxury hotel in space announced

The first fully modular space station to ever debut, Aurora Station is slated to launch in late 2021 and will operate as the first luxury hotel in space. The exclusive hotel will host six people at a time, including two crew members. Space travelers will enjoy a completely authentic, once-in-a-lifetime astronaut experience with extraordinary adventure during their 12-day journey, starting at $9.5M USD per person. During their stay on Aurora Station, travelers will enjoy the exhilaration of zero gravity and fly freely throughout Aurora Station, gaze at the northern and southern aurora through the many windows, soar over their hometowns, take part in research experiments such as growing food while in orbit (which they can take home with them as the ultimate souvenir), revel in a virtual reality experience on the holodeck, and stay in touch or live stream with their loved ones back home via high-speed wireless Internet access. The hotel will orbit earth every 90 minutes, meaning those aboard will see an average of 16 sunrises and sunsets every 24 hours. Prior to take-off, those set to travel on Aurora Station will enjoy a three-month astronaut certification process. Phase one of the certification program is done online, making space travel easier than ever. The next portion will be completed in-person at Orion Span’s state- of-the-art training facility in Houston, Texas. The final certification is completed during a traveler’s stay on Aurora Station.

4. One&Only announces its newest brand evolution 

Ultraluxury One&Only Resorts has announced a further evolution of the its brand and portfolio with the launch of One&Only Urban Resorts (in addition to nature and beach resorts). One&Only Urban Resorts will retain the glamour and style of the acclaimed One&Only beach resorts offering stunning, intuitive design, incredible culinary experiences, a strong health and fitness ethos and the renowned service that the brand is known for. The first One&Only Urban resort – the One&Only One Za’abeel – is due to open in 2020 and will be introduced in Dubai’s latest architectural icon, One Za’abeel, a completely original destination with revolutionary design. A symbol of ambition, innovation and the pioneering spirit of Dubai, One Za’abeel stands tall and proud in the Za’abeel district in the heart of the city, strategically positioned at the crossroads of the old and new business districts of Dubai. The two-tower, high-rise mixed-use development incorporates One&Only One Za’abeel, luxury residences, serviced apartments, and office spaces, in addition to The Gallery, an opulent retail podium, and a panoramic sky concourse, The Linx, which connects the two towers of One Za’abeel.

5. The Queen Elizabeth II cruise ship is now a hotel in Dubai

A monumental destination steeped in British heritage, the Queen Elizabeth cruise ship has a storied history spanning almost 50 years. The QE2, as she was known, became a symbol of modern elegance and engineering during her career as a transatlantic liner between Southampton, UK and New York. In her lifetime, the QE2 would complete 1,400 voyages, sail some 6 million nautical miles and entertain almost 2.5 million passengers. She would even serve as a troopship in the Falkland War of 1982. Today, she continues her legacy as a 13 deck hotel, dining, entertainment and events destination – docked permanently at Dubai’s Mina Rashid. The hotel lobby is home to a fascinating interactive museum portraying the amazing origins of the QE2. The ship accommodates her ‘passengers’ in 13 categories of rooms and suites, boasting views of either Dubai’s iconic skyline or the tranquil Arabian Gulf. All rooms have been thoughtfully restored to offer all the modern conveniences whilst remaining true to the historic vessel’s renowned heritage.

6. Bvlgari announces an ultra-luxe Tokyo property

Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts will open its first hotel in Tokyo at the end of 2022. The hotel will occupy the top seven floors of an ultra-skyscraper planned for construction in the Yaesu 2-Chome North District Category-I Urban Redevelopment Project. The hotel will offer 98 guest rooms in a variety of configurations, mainly twin and double rooms, as well as luxury suites and an extraordinary Bvlgari Suite. Bvlgari Hotels iconic features such as Il Bar, Il Ristorante, the fireplace Lounge, all of them with outdoor terrace, will be available for the hotel guests together with Il Cioccolato store, a sublime wellness center with indoor pool, and a dramatic ballroom including a large outdoor space. As with all the Bvlgari Hotels and Resorts, the Bvlgari Hotel in Tokyo will be designed by the Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, who conveyed Bvlgari’s core values of contemporary design, magnificent craftsmanship and artistic detail to create efficient living spaces reflecting the essence of the Italian most sophisticated style.

7. Oman Air reveals its new First Class cabin

According to Airways Magazine, Oman Air has unveiled during the opening day of the Arabian Travel Market its all-new First Class Mini Suite, which is part of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner hard product. The suite will offer comfort and ultimate luxury with a lie-flat seat, an electronically controlled privacy divider, à la carte dining, as well as an in-suite minibar. The Mini Suite was unveiled by Maitha Al Mahrouqi, Undersecretary, Oman Ministry of Tourism. Al Mahrouqi said during the event that “Oman Air works hard to maintain high levels of guest satisfaction and attention to detail in the First Class Mini Suite highlights this.” Also, Abdulaziz Al Raisi, Acting CEO of Oman Air, remarked that the airline’s commitment is to give customers a comfortable and a seamless experience when traveling with us. “The launch of the First Class Mini Suite on board our Dreamliner 787 -9 fleet, comes as a result of responding to the needs of our travelers and providing them with industry leading luxury,” Al Raisi said.

8. KLM will install a new Business Class seat on its B787-10

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has contracted the JAMCO Group of Japan to supply new World Business Class seats for eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft, to be delivered from next year. KLM is the first customer to order JAMCO’s new “Venture” business-class seats. The next-generation seat is lighter than its predecessors, reducing fuel consumption. In addition, the fishbone configuration of the new Venture seats ensures more effective utilisation of the available space. Another new feature is the “do not disturb” button on the armrest, which passengers can turn on and off at will. The middle seats in Business Class have a movable partition, allowing passengers to opt for maximum privacy or for an optimum shared travel experience. KLM is the first European airline that will fly with the new Boeing 787-10. The first airplane will be delivered in June, 2019. The new Dreamliner is an extended version of the already operating Boeing 787-9.

9. Brussels Airlines plans an overhaul of its long-haul interiors

The international transport and hospitality design specialist JPA Design announced at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, that it is to create the new cabin interiors of the A330 long-haul fleet of Brussels Airlines. Partnering with JPA Design to re-imagine a new look and feel for its Business, Premium Economy and Economy Class on its wide-body aircraft, is a key opportunity for Brussels Airlines to reflect its customer-friendly approach. In a retrofit program and with a brief to capture the fun and vibrant personality of the airline’s brand, the all-new product range encompasses the entire cabin interiors, nose to tail, and will launch at the end of 2018.  JPA Design, who has offices in London, Singapore and Dubai, will design all elements on board the A330 cabins for the airlines long-haul flights; from seat customisation, to carpets, curtains, lighting, bulkheads and lavatories. The retrofit program will launch at the end of 2018. Brussels Airlines is seen as an ambassador for Belgium. Embracing their country’s spirit and design culture, the airline has included TinTin, Magritte, the Belgian Red Devils, Tomorrowland and the Smurfs each as Belgian icons on their Airbus A320 liveries.

10. Airbus and Zodiac reveal lower deck sleeping berths

Airbus and Zodiac Aerospace have partnered to develop and market lower-deck modules with passenger sleeping berths. The modules, which would fit inside the aircraft’s cargo compartments, offer new opportunities for additional services to passengers, improving their experience while enabling airlines to differentiate and add value for their commercial operations. The new passenger modules will be easily interchangeable with regular cargo containers during a typical turnaround if required. Moreover, the aircraft’s cargo floor and cargo loading system will not be affected at all, as the passenger module will sit directly on it. Airlines will be initially be able to choose from a catalogue of certified solutions by 2020 on A330 for retrofit and line-fit markets. Offerability of sleeper compartments on the A350 XWB airliner is also being studied. The innovation builds on both Airbus’ and Zodiac Aerospace’s experience in producing and integrating lower-deck crew-rest facilities.

11. Tampa, Florida, is getting an EDITION hotel

Tampa is getting its first five-star hotel with Ian Schrager’s EDITION, which represents Marriott International’s modern luxury brand. Designed by Morris Adjmi (also known for the Wythe in Williamsburg) in partnership with Florida local firm Nichols Brosch Wurst Wolfe & Associates, and with interiors by Roman and Williams, The EDITION Tampa will be a high-design, ultra-luxe hotel unlike anything currently in Western Florida. Slated to open in 2021, just in time for the city to host the Super Bowl, the 147-key hotel will be part of a 26-story tower, with a rooftop pool and bar, a high-end restaurant, and expansive spa and fitness center. Ian Schrager Company is also curating restaurants and retail for the ground floor. The EDITION Tampa will be the focal point of a highly sophisticated $3 billion, 42-acre real estate development called Water Street Tampa – a brand new neighborhood right on the waterfront that will also include a JW Marriott, which is breaking ground this week. Developed by Strategic Property Partners (SPP) – a partnership between Cascade Investment LLP and billionaire Jeff Vinik, who owns the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey team – Water Street Tampa is one of the largest privately-funded developments in the USA.

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Travel news: this month (April 2018) in luxury travel appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.