Last summer, I enjoyed a terrific holiday in Peru. You can read my trip reports here:

• Review: KLM (old) Business Class Boeing 777 from Amsterdam to Lima
• Review: Central, world’s best restaurant 2023, Lima
• Review: Cirqa Hotel, Arequipa
• Review: Puqio Lodge, Colca Canyon
• Review: Titilaka Lodge, Lake Titicaca (today)
• Review: Titicaca Luxury Train, from Puno to Cusco
• Review: Explora Valle Sagrado, Sacred Valley
• Review: Rio Sagrado, a Belmond Hotel, Sacred Valley
• Review: Hiram Bingham, a Belmond Train, from Cusco to Machu Picchu
• Review: Sanctuary Lodge, a Belmond Hotel, Machu Picchu
• Review: Inca trail to Machu Picchu
• Review: Fausto Hotel, Lima
• Review: KLM (new) Business Class Boeing 777 from Lima to Amsterdam

Today:  Review of Titilaca Lodge (Lake Titicaca, Peru)

• Hotel website: Titilaca
• Location: Google maps

The mere mention of Lake Titicaca is enough to conjure up a dramatic, mysterious world. At an altitude of 3,812 meters (12,507ft) in the Andes, on the border between Peru and Bolivia, this cradle of Inca civilization is still home to one of the oldest communities in South America. Titilaka Lodge – Relais & Châteaux retreat – is tucked away in this unique landscape, totally off the beaten track on its own private peninsula, in a refurbished building. The rooms, each with a splendid lake view, are decorated in a contemporary style with touches of local heritage, in symbiosis with the luxuriant natural setting. Go beyond the magic of the lake and venture through ancient trails, acquaint yourself with traditional communities, and explore the Uros Floating Islands as part of the complimentary excursions.

Titilaca Lodge features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Peru.

Have you ever stayed at Titilaka? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

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

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• Titilaka Lodge is the only luxury hotel on Lake Titicaca, the famous freshwater lake located on the border between Peru and Bolivia in the southern Andes. Located at 3,812 m or 12,506 ft above sea level, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world and the second largest lake in South America. Man-made islands and ancient ruins are just the beginning of Titicaca’s mystique, and the region’s deep, rich collection of cultures has turned it into one of Peru’s most exciting destinations. Taking a boat ride on this incredible body of water offers splendid views of the snow-capped Cordillera Real rising over the deep blue waters. The islands on the lake, as well as being very beautiful, provide a wonderful insight into the traditional life of the inhabitants, with many of these living in a similar fashion to their ancestors hundreds of years ago.

• Titilaka is located on the south-eastern shore of Lake Titicaca, totally off the beaten track on a tranquil private peninsula shared only with the local Aymara community. Just outside the village of the same name, about a one hour drive from Puno (the lake’s largest city), Titilaka Lodge is surrounded on three sides by the pristine lake, offering fabulous panoramic views. The lodge faces the Taquile and Amantani islands to the north; the Bolivian Cordillera Real to the east, and Lake Titicaca stretching from east to west. At the northern tip of the peninsula lies the dock, departure point for local and excursion boats. The southern part of the peninsula, just a short stroll from the lodge, features a lovely sandy beach; although the waters of the lake are too cold for a swim, the lodge has a small activity center here, offering non-motorized water sports (e.g. kayak, paddle boarding, etc …).

• Surrounded by stunning scenery and pristine geography, Titilaka Lodge is housed in a 3-story building. While simple and rather unremarkable on the outside, the lodge features light-filled, sophisticated and contemporary interiors. The hotel’s elegant decor playfully mixes local decorative design touches with a modern, urban architecture, and bursts with beautiful bespoke art works, high-end Peruvian textiles and recycled furniture. The open-plan ground floor features a reception area, several lounge areas, a small boutique and – the hotel’s piece de resistance – a magnificent dining room. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the lounge and dining areas give way to expansive outdoor terraces, equipped with shaded cabanas, lounge chairs and a Jacuzzi.

• Titilaka Lodge offers 18 lake-view rooms, each with outstanding views of Lake Titicaca and contemporary furnishings complemented by local textiles and fresh flowers. Distributed over three levels and connected by central hallways, each room is fully equipped with pima cotton linens, extra pillows, heated floors, stocked mini-bar, i-pod dock, blackout curtains, organic bathroom amenities, coffee table, desk and ample closet space. The open plan bathrooms feature stand-alone bathtubs, walk-in showers and organic bathroom amenities. There are four room categories to choose from: the Explorer and Dawn Rooms all face the sunrise and come with uninterrupted lake views while the Dush Rooms have a view of the sunset and the countryside; the most expensive room type (Corner Room) boasts a view of both the sunrise and the sunset.

• All food and drinks are included in the rate when staying at Titilaka Lodge. And although all-inclusive is often associated with a mediocre food concept, that’s not the case at Titilaka, which serves some of the best food in the whole region. Combining seasonal produce and honouring local heritage, the superb cuisine features traditional Andean Ingredients with a delicate twist showcasing the authentic essence of the lake. The menus – which change daily on a rotating basis – draw heavily on local cuisine and specialties like lake trout (there’s a trout farm only a five minute walk away) but also feature international options like salads, which are a bit of a rarity in the Andes. Although most guest will enjoy their meals in the lodge’s stunning main dining room, guests can also have their meals on one of the terraces, in their room (there’s no surcharge for room service) or during full-day outings with posh picnics.

• CALTUR is the Peruvian government certification for tourism quality, which incorporates both environmental and social standards; Titilaka has qualified every year. The lodge keeps a low carbon footprint by using hydroelectric power and natural gas. The lodge also has a social commitment, which is focussed on supporting the sustainable economic development of the villages on Lake Titicaca. Three-quarters of our staff come from local communities and they source ingredients locally as much as possible, providing the families with an important market for their products, from food crops to Andean textiles. Titilaka also works hand in hand with a non-profit organisation that supports the communities around the lake, making a donation on behalf of every guest. Guests will also have a chance to give back personally by making their own donation or visiting a local village.

• Titilaka Lodge bills itself as an ‘experience lodge’, offering a wide range of adventurous excursions led by bilingual expert guides. Guests can choose between 14 excursions in Peru and 2 into Bolivia (the latter come at an additional cost) to explore the region’s distinctive gastronomy, nature, history and culture. The not-to-be-missed boat excursion (the only speed boat activity offered) is to visit the floating reed islands of Uros and additional island Taquile, with a gourmet picnic lunch. Other excursions include a visit to traditional weaving artists, a kayak tour at sunrise, or spotting Aymara constellations after sunset. As a part of the lodge’s sustainability pledge, many excursions were set up in collaboration with the local communities, creating an authentic experience for our guests while providing the communities with a stable income. Excursions are arranged on a shared-basis, with the option to upgrade and privatize transfers and guiding

• Just like its sister lodge Cirqa in Arequipa, Titilaka Lodge is a members of Relais & Châteaux. Founded in 1954, Relais & Châteaux is the premier designation for independent luxury restaurants and properties around the world. Today, the collection has grown to more than 580 landmark hotels and restaurants operated by independent owners around the globe who share a passion for providing guests the most unique and memorable experiences possible. In order to meet the exacting standards of Relais & Châteaux, each property or restaurant must pass a rigorous inspection process while at the same time express unique traits that value the ethos of the organization.

• Titilaka is managed by Andean, the Peruvian luxury travel company who which largely sets the standard for high-end boutique stays throughout the country. As an industry pioneer in the design and development of owner-managed hotels and carefree travel, Andean takes guests on journeys from the historic vibrancy of the city to the timeless serenity of Peru’s unspoiled side. Each experience is complemented by seamless serendipity, remarkable local cuisine, nourishment for the soul, and an understated elegance that is uniquely Peruvian. Andean offers a neat circuit known as the Southern Peru Travesia: Arequipa, the Colca Canyona and Lake Titicaca. The company also has two hotels in Lima for a city stay before and after your international flights.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

• Titilaka Lodge’s 18 rooms are spread over three floors, which are connected by stairs (there’s no elevator). In case you have difficulties walking or are worried about climbing stairs, it’s advised to request a room on the ground floor.

• The complimentary excursions are all shared with other guests unless you pick a private program, which comes at an extra charge. Also, the lodge offers the option of a day excursion in the nearby country of Bolovia, but this excursions comes at an extra charge since it involves a third-party tour operator and crossing the border.

• Guests should be aware of altitude sickness when visiting Lake Titicaca. As the area is located at an altitude of 3,812 m or 12,506 ft above sea level, some travelers might encounter symptoms like headache, nausea, tiredness, and shortness of breath. However, Titilaka’s team is always able to assist and make you comfortable in case you would suffer from altitude sickness (oxygen can be provided when necessary).

• Wellness & health facilities at Titilaka are limited, since there is no pool and no gym on site. However, the boutique property does offer a hot tub – located on a terrace just below the lobby – which is a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing. Also, there one spa room with two massage tables, and a few standard treatment offerings. Just note that the spa therapists come in from the city of Puno, so you’ll need to give at least a three hours’ notice when booking a treatment.

MY VERDICT

• Location: 10/10
• Design: 8/10
• Pool: n/a
• Rooms: 8/10
• Food: 9/10
• Breakfast: 8/10
• Spa: n/a
• Service: 9/10
• Wow factor: 8/10
• Value for money: 8/10
• Overall experience: very good 8,2/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Save money: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Titilaka via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and a complimentary 50 minute massage for up to two people, per room, once per stay).

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

• Itinerary tip: Titilaca is an extension to Puqio by Andean (Colca Canyon) and Cirqa by Andean (Arequipa) along the southern Peru route, the first offering of its kind in the region. You can contact Andean to create a customized trip for you in this awesome region of Peru.

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Although it is possible to visit Lake Titicaca any time of year, it’s advisable to travel between April and November, when most days offer clear and sunny weather, resulting in spectacular views.

HOW TO GET THERE

Titilaka provides shared transfers to and from the lodge. You can either fly into Juliaca Airport (approximately two hours from the lodge), you can arrive by train at Puno (one hour from the lodge), or arrive by private transfer (for example from Cuzco, Arequipa or the Colca Canyon).

PHOTOS

Below is a selection of my photos of Titilaka. To view more photos (including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a boat excursion on Lake Titicaca), click here.

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

The post Review: Titilaka Lodge (Lake Titicaca, Peru) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Last summer, I enjoyed a terrific holiday in Peru. You can read my trip reports here:

• Review: KLM (old) Business Class Boeing 777 from Amsterdam to Lima
• Review: Central, world’s best restaurant 2023, Lima
• Review: Cirqa Hotel, Arequipa
• Review: Puqio Lodge, Colca Canyon (today)
• Review: Titilaka Hotel, Lake Titicaca
• Review: Titicaca Luxury Train, from Puno to Cusco
• Review: Explora Valle Sagrado, Sacred Valley
• Review: Rio Sagrado, a Belmond Hotel, Sacred Valley
• Review: Hiram Bingham, a Belmond Train, from Cusco to Machu Picchu
• Review: Sanctuary Lodge, a Belmond Hotel, Machu Picchu
• Review: Inca trail to Machu Picchu
• Review: Fausto Hotel, Lima
• Review: KLM (new) Business Class Boeing 777 from Lima to Amsterdam

Today:  Review of Puqio Hotel (Colca Canyon, Peru)

• Hotel website: Puqio
• Location: Google maps

Puqio, a luxury tented camp nestled deep in Peru’s captivating Colca Valley, offers an extraordinary retreat that celebrates the simplicity and beauty of nature. The tented camp invites you to slow down, embrace the Andean-style exploration, and immerse yourself in the surrounding landscape and local traditions. Three distinct room categories – Pirca, Carpa, and Carpa Refugio – offer alternative ways to experience the valley with distinct views of the surrounding terrain.  Gastronomic experience include sauthentic Andean flavors prepared in clay ovens and over open flames. Fuming volcanoes, sweeping grasslands, and untrodden pathways await daily exploration. At night, rustic elegance rejuvenates body and spirit of the experienced traveler.

Puqio features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Peru.

Have you ever stayed at Puqio? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• Puqio is a peaceful exploration camp located near Peru’s third most visited tourist destination, the Colca Canyon. The Colca Canyon is known as one of the deepest canyons in the world, reaching a maximum depth of around 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) from the rim of the Canyon to the bottom of the valley (twice the depth of the Grand Canyon). The main draw of the Canyon are its viewpoints, scenic hikes and hot springs. The Colca Canyon is a privileged vantage point from which to observe the majestic Andean condor; with a wingspan of over 3 meters (10 feet), the Andean Condor is considered the largest flying bird in the world.

• The Colca Valley is a 3 hour drive from the city of Arequipa (private transfers can be arranged by the hotel). The drive from Arequipa to Puqio is pleasant, scenic journey and offers a chance to appreciate the beautiful high- altitude landscapes of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Several active volcanoes can be seen along the way and large herds of beautiful alpacas and vicunas are frequently spotted by the side of the road. Several stops are made along the way, including a stop at the Patapampa pass (4910 m, 16,108 ft), which is surrounded by the peaks of the three impressive volcanoes Ampato, Sabancayo y Hualca-Hualca.

• Puqio is nestled on a hillslope in a tranquil corner of the Colca Valley, about a 45 min drive from the canyon’s most famous viewpoints.  The area around Puqio is dotted with small, picturesque villages – such as Chivay, Yanque and Cabanaconde  – that seem to be stuck in time. These village were founded in Spanish colonial times and are still inhabited by people of the Collagua and the Cabana cultures. The local people of these villages maintain their ancestral traditions – for example, women are still dressed in elaborately adorned traditional skirts  – and continue to cultivate the pre-Inca stepped terraces – called andenes – on the surrounding mountains.

• Puqio is a small boutique hotel and in many ways, it feels more like a rural Peruvian casitas than a true hotel, all adding to a sense of place in this remote corner of Peru. The main pavilion of Puqio houses a dining room, a couple of seating areas centered coffee tables, and an open fire. The front terrace of the pavilion houses an open-air dining areas that is used for traditional barbeque dinners, while the backside features and expansive terrace with some lounge chair from where to soak in the views and the sunset. Beyond the main pavilions are the eight rooms – four tents and four adobe huts – which are scattered throughout the resort grounds (more on that below).

• Puqio offers only eight rustic yet elegant rooms, hosting just 16 travelers at a time. There are three room categories to choose from: Pirca, Carpa & Carpa Refugio. The two carpa rooms are spacious tents offering outdoor terraces, woodburning stoves, an outdoor bathtub, and both indoor & outdoor showers. Inspired by the original canvas tents of first Andean explorers, each is crafted with rugged canvas to protect guestss from the elements. The two carpa refugios are the most commanding of the canvas tents, each boasting a sizable indoor living area and terrace, a wood-burning stove, and a separate mud room. The four pirqa rooms are housed in adobe huts and offer the same amenities as the carpa tents as well as the best views of the valley.

• Rates at Puqio are fully inclusive, including lodging, breakfast, lunch, dinner with wine and cocktails, afternoon tea, drinks and in-room snacks. Food at the lodge is delicious and the portions are generous. Here, corn is harvested by local hands and freshly baked bread is kneaded with a knowing touch. Each family-style meal is crafted using traditional methods and the freshest produce available in the local terroir, creating a completely authentic and inspired culinary offering. Some dining experiences at Puqio feature meals cooked in clay ovens and open flames, highlighting the traditions of the Andes. This is farm-to-table dining, Andean style, at its best. Plus, with no menus, family-style servings remind each guest of the rich simplicity of living from the land.

• Set in a quiet, unexplored corner of the famous Andean valley, Puqio is an exploration hub offering its guests immersive excursions that capture the essence and mysticism of the magnificent Colca Canyon, a must-see destination in Southern Peru. The lodge offers multiple excursions to the canyon’s viewpoints and the condor lookout, in varying durations, as well as shorter activities around the tented camp. A guests exploration will vary depending on their preferences. Favorite experiences include horseback riding, soaking in the local hot springs, and visiting some of the best textile weavers in the Andes. Guests can also visit the charming towns of Sibayo, Tutti, and Chivay.

• Cirqa is managed by Andean, the Peruvian luxury travel company who reinvents the art of travel in the country by showcasing the true essence of Peru through inspiring destinations, innovative accommodations, and authentic experiences. As an industry pioneer in the design and development of owner-managed hotels and carefree travel, Andean takes guests on journeys from the historic vibrancy of the city to the timeless serenity of Peru’s unspoiled side. Each experience is complemented by seamless serendipity, remarkable local cuisine, nourishment for the soul, and an understated elegance that is uniquely Peruvian. Andean manages three other hotels, offering a neat circuit known as the Southern Peru Travesia: Lima, Arequipa, the Colca Canyona and Lake Titicaca.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

• Wellness facilities at Puqio are limited. There is no pool, no gym and no spa (although I was informed that the Andean management is considering adding a spa facility in the near future). However, the boutique property does offer a hot tub, which is located on a terrace just below the main property, boasting some lovely views of the Colca Valley (including views of the sunset). It’s a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing.

• Travelers should be aware of altitude sickness when visiting Puqio and the Colca Canyon. As the area is located at elevations greater than 10,000 ft (3.000 m), some travelers might encounter symptoms like headache, nausea, tiredness, and shortness of breath. However, Puqio’s team is always able to assist  and make you comfortable in case you would suffer from altitude sickness.

• Puqio is located in the Colca Valley, which is a 45 min drive from the Colca Canyon and its spectacular view points. Although the lodge does offer excursions to the view points, it currently does not offer the option of hiking within the canyon itself (which is the main draw for many visitors to this part of Peru). I was able to arrange a hike by myself though: a taxi picked me up at 6 am at Puqio and brough me to the the village of  Cabanaconde (after watching the condors at the view point), from where I started a non-guide, 5-hour hike to Llahuar on the bottom of the Colca Canyon. Here, the same taxi company arranged a 4×4 to pick me up and take me back to the lodge (a 90 min drive), where I arrived again at 6 pm. I would suggest that Puqio would try to include these type of hikes in its future excursion program (by collaborating with locals), since it’s an activity that many travelers might be interested in.

• Puqio features only 8 rooms (4 adobe huts and 4 tents). The four adobe huts (pirca rooms) and two of the tents (carpa refugio) are located on the front row of the hillslope, offering spectacular views of the valley, especially during the sunset. However, the two other tents (carpa) are a bit set back and, and they do not enjoy a view of the valley, but rather look out over the resort grounds and the other accommodations. If a view is what you are after, make sure to book a pirca or a capra refugio.

MY VERDICT

• Location: 8/10
• Design: 8/10
• Pool: n/a
• Rooms: 8/10
• Food: 9/10
• Breakfast:9 /10
• Spa: n/a
• Service: 10/10
• Wow factor: 9/10
• Value for money: 9/10
• Overall experience: very good 8,6/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

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

• Itinerary tip: Puqio is an extension to Titilaka by Andean (Lake Titicaca) and Cirqa by Andean (Arequipa) along the southern Peru route, the first offering of its kind in the region. You can contact Andean to create a customized trip for you in this awesome region of Peru.

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Although it is possible to visit the Colca Canyon any time of year, it’s advisable to travel between April and November, when most days offer clear and sunny weather, resulting in spectacular views, and condor sightings.

HOW TO GET THERE

Puqio is a 3 hour drive from the city of Arequipa (private transfers can be arranged by the hotel).

PHOTOS

Below is a selection of my photos of  Puqio. To view more photos (including breakfast, lunch and dinner), click here.

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

The post Review: Puqio Hotel (Colca Canyon, Peru) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Last summer, I enjoyed a terrific holiday in Peru. You can read my trip reports here:

• Review: KLM (old) Business Class Boeing 777 from Amsterdam to Lima
• Review: Central, world’s best restaurant 2023, Lima
• Review: Cirqa Hotel, Arequipa (today)
• Review: Puqio Hotel, Colca Canyon
• Review: Titilaka Hotel, Lake Titicaca
• Review: Titicaca Luxury Train, from Puo to Cusco
• Review: Explora Valle Sagrado, Sacred Valley
• Review: Rio Sagrado, a Belmond Hotel, Sacred Valley
• Review: Hiram Bingham, a Belmond Train, from Cusco to Machu Picchu
• Review: Sanctuary Lodge, a Belmond Hotel, Machu Picchu
• Review: Inca trail to Machu Picchu
• Review: Fausto Hotel, Lima
• Review: KLM (new) Business Class Boeing 777 from Lima to Amsterdam

Today: Hotel Cirqa (Arequipa, Peru)

• Hotel website: Cirqa
• Location: Google maps

Cirqa – a Relaix & Chateaux Hotel – echoes the wonders of 1540 — the year in which Arequipa was founded — and magnificently celebrates the city’s immaculate white sheen. This recently restored former monastery embodies Arequipa’s traditional architecture by flaunting its original sillar volcanic rock walls, which were carefully sculpted by local stonemasons. The captivating decor adds a modern touch, creating a unique balance between the past and present. The eleven rooms, some with restored vaulted ceilings, surround the main terraza & patio.  At the hotel’s Salón, the cuisine is an innovative reinterpretation of the region’s gastronomic soul and iconic picanterías, and can be enjoyed while admiring the prodigious lunar landscapes that surround this delectable haven of peace. Cirqa is not simply a place to stay; it is a memory in and of itself.

Cirqa features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Peru.

Have you ever stayed at Cirqa? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

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

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• Cirqa Hotel is located in the center of Peru’s second largest city, Arequipa, often referred to as the ‘White City’. Arequipa may not get as much international attention as Lima, Cuzco or Machu Picchu, but it is a stunning destination in itself. More than 500 grand colonial-era houses in the historic center – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – take visitors back to another time, to the earliest beginnings of the fusion between European and Andean traditions, as expressed in the city’s vaulted roofs and arches of white stone, made from the local volcanic rock known as “sillar”. The historic center of Arequipa also houses dozens of traditional restaurants, or “picanterías”, where stone mortars and clay pots are used to prepare the finest stuffed peppers and shrimp chowder. Cirqa Hotel is just one block from Arequipa’s main square, Plaza de Armas, so the property is perfectly located for sightseeing.

• Cirqa is housed in a historic building – a former monastery – which was founded in the same year as the city of Arequipa, 1940. It was then that Alonso De Luque, a renowned scribe, and his wife Isabel de Vega Sarmiento became the first documented owners of the land on which Cirqa now sits. The pair never developed this land, and left it to the Augustinean Order upon their passing, on the condition the Order build a church with cloisters, patios, orchards and gardens as well an altar for Saint Nicholas of Tolentino. The Order did fulfil this request, however construction was fated to become a centuries-long process of rebuilding and restyling as successive earthquakes left their marks on the monastery from 1582 through the late 1800’s. Peru’s independence from Spain in 1826 marked a significant divergence from the previously-clear trail of ownership and the property was handed over to the treasury and split into thirds for separate families and private ownership. Today, two thirds of the original property correspond to Cirqa.

• Tales of grand celebrations, whispered conspiracies, blessed fates and opulent fortunes still echo through the historic hallways of Cirqa’s 16th century building. The  property – which was among the first built by European settlers in the New World – boasts a unique Arequipenean character that has withstood the test of time. Most of the original volcanic rock architecture was preserved during the renovation and transformation of the former monastery into a hotel, while local materials like dark wood, iron elements, lots of glass and mirrors were added. The meticulously restored high-vaulted ceilings, powerful walls, arches and columns were further infused with contemporary fixtures and fittings, making up the soul of the hotel. The team behind the hotel’s astounding design & architecture are owner Ignacio Masias, designer Sandra Masias, and architects Stephanie Chang and Daniel Cisneros. They choose the name CIRQA, with a Q, to honor the history of the property in tandem with the history and chronology of Arequipa itself

• Cirqa Hotel features 11 exquisite rooms, centered around the hotel’s main terraza and patio. Each room embodies is a timeless homage to the ancient monastery chambers & features its own unique characteristics in addition to sophisticated modern details. All rooms include a Smart TV with DirecTV & Netflix, air-conditioning, a wireless speaker, organic amenities, & a complimentary snacks-and-drinks hamper. During my visit at Cirqa, I stayed in the Boveda Room, a magnificent and spacious bedroom, with original high-vaulted ceilings that recalled ancient Parador times. The room was uniquely outfitted with sculptural wooden furnishings, linens in earthy hues, contemporary fixtures, and a private sitting area. The open-plan ensuite bathroom featured a stand-alone bathtub, a cabin with a walk-in shower and a lavatory. The room’s architectural highlight were the large glass windows that had been inserted into the century-old arches, creating an atmosphere of old-world tranquility.

• Cirqa is a small boutique property, and it encourages its guests to explore the city of Arequipa and its surrounding. Nonetheless, the hotel also features some beautiful communal areas in case you’d like to spend some relaxing moments at the hotel itself, perhaps after a day of exploring the city center. At the heart of the hotel is a lovely patio with a small heated plunge pool (which is open from sunrise to sunset). Right next to the patio is a beautiful spa room with a vaulted ceiling, where treatments can be offered by skilled therapists upon request. One of the hotel’s highlights is its rooftop terrace which offers stunning views of Arequipa’s volcanoes & the surrounding neighbourhoods -great for sundowners. Inspired by old Picanterias, the rooftop terrace’s design resembles the structure of the first Arequipenean road-stops, where travelers from all around would gather to drink and eat traditional food before continuing on to their destinations.

• Breakfast, lunch, & dinner are served in Cirqa’s sole restaurant, which comprises an indoor dining room (called The Salón) and an outdoor shaded terrace (called The Terraza). The contemporary Salón combines a casual sitting area with a monastic dining room and a large fireplace. Its décor is complemented by long tables and carefully selected tableware that create an organic aesthetic and tranquil ambiance. The Terraza offers an open space sitting & dining area with a comfortable feel & fire pits. Both are available for guests or walk-ins who have made prior reservations. The restaurant’s chef – Maria Fé García – pays tribute to her grandmother’s recipes while intermingling definitive flavors into the dishes. With rocotitos rellenos and adobo de cerdo leading the way, she offers Arequipenean takes on foodie favorites like squid ink pasta, salmon, and even mille-feuille for dessert.

• Cirqa is one of the newest members of Relais & Châteaux in South America. Founded in 1954, Relais & Châteaux is the premier designation for independent luxury restaurants and properties around the world. Today, the collection has grown to more than 580 landmark hotels and restaurants operated by independent owners around the globe who share a passion for providing guests the most unique and memorable experiences possible. In order to meet the exacting standards of Relais & Châteaux, each property or restaurant must pass a rigorous inspection process while at the same time express unique traits that value the ethos of the organization.

• Cirqa is managed by Andean, the Peruvian luxury travel company who reinvents the art of travel in the country by showcasing the true essence of Peru through inspiring destinations, innovative accommodations, and authentic experiences. As an industry pioneer in the design and development of owner-managed hotels and carefree travel, Andean takes guests on journeys from the historic vibrancy of the city to the timeless serenity of Peru’s unspoiled side. Each experience is complemented by seamless serendipity, remarkable local cuisine, nourishment for the soul, and an understated elegance that is uniquely Peruvian. Andean manages three other hotels, offering a neat circuit known as the Southern Peru Travesia: Lima, Arequipa, the Colca Canyona and Lake Titicaca.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

• Cirqa is a magnificent boutique hotel with only 18 rooms. No two rooms are alike, due to the fact that the architects had to work within the constraint of existing structures in the heritage monastery building. Beware that some of the rooms are small and  lack outdoor windows (except for a windowed entrance door). But no matter what room type you book, all rooms are ancredibly atmospheric, with a stunning fusion of old and new, of stone, steel and glass.

• Cirqa features limited facilities, with just one restaurant, a beautiful Jacuzzi and one spa room on site.  However, it all fits the boutique character of the hotel as the excitement to stay at Cirqa isn’t perhaps about the facilities offered by the hotel, but about the hotel itself. The main draw of Cirqa are the sensitive reinvention of its past as a monastery, the beautifully designed rooms, the impeccable service and the calm and serene ambiance, even though the hotel located right in the center of bustling Arequipa.

MY VERDICT

• Location: 9/10
• Design: 10/10
• Pool: n/a
• Rooms: 9/10
• Food: 8/10
• Breakfast: 8/10
• Spa: n/a
• Service: 10/10
• Wow factor: 9/10
• Value for money: 10/10
• Overall experience: very good 8.8/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

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

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The city of Arequipa enjoys around 300 days of sunshine each year. The best time to visit Arequipa is anytime from April to November when the weather is pleasant. Conditions are sunny with blue skies, and daytime temperatures are mild.

HOW TO GET THERE

Cirqa is located one block from Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas, within walking distance of many of its finest cultural sites. There are daily multiple flights from both Lima and Cusco to Arequipa’s airport. The transfer from the airport to the hotel is 30 minutes by car.

PHOTOS

Below is a selection of my photos of  Cirqa. To view more photos (including breakfast and dinner), click here.

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

The post Review: Cirqa, a Relais & Châteaux Hotel, Arequipa (Peru) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review.

Last summer, I enjoyed a terrific holiday in Peru. You can read my trip reports here:

• Review: KLM (old) Business Class Boeing 777 from Amsterdam to Lima
• Review: Central, world’s best restaurant 2023, Lima
• Review: Cirqa Hotel, Arequipa
• Review: Puqio Hotel, Colca Canyon
• Review: Titilaka Hotel, Lake Titicaca
• Review: Titicaca Luxury Train, from Puo to Cusco
• Review: Explora Valle Sagrado, Sacred Valley (today)
• Review: Rio Sagrado, a Belmond Hotel, Sacred Valley
• Review: Hiram Bingham, a Belmond Train, from Cusco to Machu Picchu
• Review: Sanctuary Lodge, a Belmond Hotel, Machu Picchu
• Review: Inca trail to Machu Picchu
• Review: Fausto Hotel, Lima
• Review: KLM (new) Business Class Boeing 777 from Lima to Amsterdam

Today: Explora Valle Sagrada (Peru)

• Hotel website: Explora Valle Sagrada
• Location: Google maps
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso

Located halfway between Cuzco and Machu Picchu, Explora Valle Sagrado was designed as a headquarters from which to explore a remote and spectacular destination. More than 30 explorations immerse guests in the colonial history of Cuzco and the architectural magnificence of the Inca in Machu Picchu, isolated villages, archaeological sites, and the Andean Pampas and mountains. Public spaces and rooms, with their humble stylishness, pay homage to the ancient cornfields and peaks outside. Walkways lead to a colonial mansion housing the spa and pool, and don´t miss the new gastronomic experience. The lodge is managed by Explora, South America’s best luxury hotel brand.

Have you ever stayed at Explora Valle Sagrada? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• Nestled within the awe-inspiring Valle Sagrado, Explora Sacred Valley is a gateway to discovering the extraordinary wonders of Machu Picchu, an ancient city ingeniously nestled amidst the mountains. But the enchanting Sacred Valley – a fertile valley irrigated by the Urubamba River –  is a destination in its own, offering an array of unique attractions: from the mesmerizing Maras Salt Ponds, boasting around 3,000 natural salt pools, to the enigmatic Moray, a site presumed to be a testing ground for diverse agricultural methods and microclimate observation. The Sacred Valley of the Incas is between the towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, about 1 hour from Cusco and at a lower altitude, making it the perfect starting point to acclimatize your body to the altitude, and to explore Cusco, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley itself.

• Explora Sacred Valley enjoys a remote setting in one of the most isolated spots of the Sacred Valley, close to Urquillos village. The lodge is surrounded by mountains that were once the home of the Inca Empire and the view of the surrounding rugged landscape – especially from the lobby’s outdoor terrace – is truly spectacular. The lodge overlooks a corn, quinoa and kiwicha plantation which provides work and food for the nearby village of Urquillos and is immersed, therefore, in the slow-paced life of its inhabitants. The lodge is conveniently located to explore the Inca Empire and the wonders of the Sacred Valley, but it’s off the main tourist route and removed from the valley’s busy tourist hotspots, meaning that guests can enjoy intimate seclusion and serene tranquilty here amidst the Peruvian Andes.

• José Cruz Ovalle, winner of Chile’s National Architecture Award in 2012, is behind the design of Explora Sacred Valley. The hotel structure comprises five two-story pavilions which form a meandering line through the resort grounds, reflecting the lay of the landscape and Incan engineering. All low-lying pavilions are connected through a series of overhead bridges and ascending & descending walkways. The hotel’s understated design honors Peru’s traditional hacienda architecture, with wide verandas, tiled roofs walls and wooden boardwalks which blend unobtrusively into the landscape. Although the hotel is a newly built structure, the construction team recovered worn-out Inca platforms, dug up ancient walls with more than 500 years of history, and coated the hotel walls in the traditional way with adobe and Jahuacollay hawthorn, all adding to a sense of place.

• On the inside, Explora Sacred Valley’s main lodge features a light, bright, and airy interior, styled with blonde wood and earthy tones. Located at the center of the hotel, the pavilion houses the dining room, a stylish bar and two lounge areas with fireplaces on the ground floor, as well as the reception area, a boutique and a meeting room on the first floor. The atrium’s high vaulted ceiling is supported by columns built with the trunks of trees brought from the general contractor’s own land in Peru’s Amazon rain forest. The main lodge is concepted as a social zone, where guests can meet other guests before or after dinner, and it’s also the place where guests meet the guides to discuss their activities for the following day.

• Explora Sacred Valley features 50 rooms, which are spread over four pavilions (two on each side of the main lodge). Every room has a lovely view over the surrounding cornfields and impressive mountains that once sheltered the most important Pre-Columbian civilization. There are 44 standard rooms and 6 suites, with a choice between a king size bed or a twin bed (connecting rooms and handicap rooms are available). Wood panelling and vaulted ceilings add cozy touches to the room decor, making them great places to unwind after exploring the destination during the day. Also, custom touches are everywhere, from alpaca blankets on the beds to the love seats and armchairs upholstered in pale blue wool. All bespoke furnishings inside the rooms were made by local artisans.

• Located a short 5-min stroll through a cornfield from Explora Sacred Valley’s main lodge is Pumacahua Bath House, an example of the area’s rich ancestral and cultural heritage. This large colonial house was built in the 17th century and belonged to one of Peru’s Independence heroes, the Inca Mateo Pumacahua. Only open to hotel guests, the house is used as a spa, with a large outdoor swimming pool, two outdoor Jacuzzis, two massage rooms, and indoor wellness facilities such as a sauna, steam bath, and lounge area. Inside the spa, guests can admire century-old colonial frescos, which were painstakingly restored by experts under supervision of the Peruvian Institute of Archaeology. The building also features a large courtyard which is sometimes used for traditional Peruvian barbeques.

• Explora Sacred Valley offers a unique culinary experience developed by the renowned Peruvian chef Virgilio Martínez, owner of Central restaurant, recognized as the best restaurant in the world in 2023 according to World’s Best. Considered a member of the Peruvian chefs movement and trained organically, Martinez is a leading promoter of his country’s cuisine worldwide.  Inspired by the great biodiversity of the Sacred Valley, its history, and the culture of the people who live there, he developed a unique menu that reveals the magic of the place in every bite. With natural and organic preparations, the menu brings local crops directly to the table of Explora’s guests, both at the hotel and during explorations. All dishes are accompanied by a unique selection of wines and beverages.

• All excursions at Explora Valle Sagrado are committed to providing travelers with the less traveled but most rewarding experiences in the Sacred Valley (where the legacy of the Incas remains strong), away from the madding crowd of traditional tourism without missing any of the destination’s most rewarding landscapes and cultural hubs alike. Most guides of the lodge are locals and come from families where millennial traditions have been maintained to this day, making them the best people to accompany you to explore this magical place. Part of the in-depth exploration that the lodge want to transmit to its guests is for them to get to know the guides through culture and contact with communities. That is why the lodge offers visits to the village of Pisac, which has a colorful crafts market, and the community of Huayllafara in the Lamay Valley during the Ayni exploration.

• The Sacred Valley lodge is managed by Explora,one of the most luxurious hotel brands in South America. Explora is a collection of lodges focused on deep exploration of remote regions in South America, such as Atacama desert, Chilean Patagonia (Torres del Paine park), Argentinian Patagonia (El Chalten) and Chile’s Easter Island. Explora’s lodges are designed to offer comfort while connecting guests to some of the continent’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Each property emphasizes sustainable practices and provides guided explorations, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the natural and cultural richness of the area. Most of Explora’s programs are full board–packages include meals and a broad range of outdoor adventures.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

• Explora Valle Sagrado offers two type of rates – the bed & breakfast rate and an all-inclusive rate – and it may be confusing at first which type of rate you should book. The all-inclusive rate includes truly everything: all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic beverages, transfers to/from Cusco (at preset schedules) and all excursions (except for day trips to Machu Picchu). The bed & breakfast rate only gives you an accommodation and daily breakfast (buffet + à la carte), and I believe the lodge introduced this rate to compete with the other hotels in the Sacred Valley (which all offer bed & breakfast rates). However, as the name Explora Valle Sagrado suggests, the ‘explorations’ at the lodge are the main thing and truly set the hotel apart from all the other lodges in the area. From trekking in local Inca towns to hiking in the high Andes – and of course Machu Picchu – the guides experience and attention are second to none. So I thoroughly recommend booking the all-inclusive package.

• If you book the all-inclusive package at Explore Valle Sagrado, all your excursions will be included, except for the day trip to Machu Picchu. The latter excursion has an additional cost of $400 USD for adults and $350 USD for children (up to 11 years) and needs to be confirmed with Explora’s booking team at least 50 days before the visit. Also keep in mind that a day trip to Machu Picchu from the lodge takes a lot of  travel time. Between the car ride from the lodge to Ollantaytambo train station, the train ride to Aguas Calientes and the bus ride to the legendary citadel at the end, it’s at least 4 hours each way (and that excludes waiting lines for the busses). If you instead stay in Agua Calientes (or if you really want to splurge, at the Belmond property at the entrance to Machu Picchu), you could visit Machu Picchu early morning (before all the crowds arrive by train) or late afternoon, and break up the travel.

• Altitude is a concern in the Sacred Valley as some of Explora’s hikes go above 4,500 meters (15,000 ft). The guides of the lodge help guests to acclimate to the high altitude with some easier activities in the beginning of their stay with more difficult (but also far more rewarding) hikes at the end, always taking into consideration the physical condition of each guest. The guides of the lodge are absolutely very careful about the possibility of altitude sickness, and don’t allow hikes in the higher altitude ecosystems in the beginning of each stay. While I totally understand that this is the correct policy to follow for guests that flew in from sea level, I do feel that exceptions should be made for guests that have been traveling already for some time in Peru’s high altitude environment (which is often the case when you visit Arequipa, the Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca and Cusco prior to the Sacred Valley).

• The swimming pool and spa are located in a separate building (Pumacahua Bath House), about 500 m (1,600 ft) from the main lodge. This may discourages some guests of using the facilities, especially after a day of strenuous hikes. However, the beautiful stroll towards the Pumacahua Bath House is part of the wellness experience because the trail enhances disconnection and it also offers great views. As you leave the main building behind, walking over one of the hacienda’s four Inca platforms, the remains of the Inca legacy gain increasing strength. Also, massages can be requested to the room if you don’t feel liek walking over to Pumacahua Bath House.

MY VERDICT

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

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Save money: get complimentary VIP perks at Explora Valle Sagrado 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 Explora Valle Sagrado (and/or receive many free perks).

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit the Sacred Valley is during the dry season, which runs from May to mid-October. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, and you can enjoy clear skies, warm weather and beautiful views of the Andes Mountains during the day (with cold nights). The dry season is the peak tourist season in the Sacred Valley, so be prepared for more crowds and higher prices.

The rainy season in the Sacred Valley runs from mid-October to April. While the rain can make the landscape lush, green, and beautiful, it can also make hiking and exploring more difficult (with often obscured views at Machu Picchu). Landslides, disrupted train schedules, flight delays and road closures can also occur during rainy spells, which can disrupt your travel plans.

HOW TO GET THERE

Explora Valle Sagrado is a 90 min drive from Cusco and a 45 min drive from Ollantaytambo, where you can catch the train to Machu Picchu. The lodge can arrange transfers (they are included in the rate when you book the full experience program).

PHOTOS

Below is a selection of my photos of Explora Valle Sagrado. To view more photos (including breakfast, lunch, dinner and excursions), click here.

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

The post Review: Explora Valle Sagrado, Sacred Valley (Peru) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review.

Today: Review of Kalesma Mykonos Luxury Hotel (Mykonos, Greece)

• Hotel website: Kalesma Mykonos
• Location: Google maps
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso

Once home to Greek gods and a favorite destination of Jackie Kennedy as well as artists, poets, designers and actors, Mykonos isn’t new to the limelight. And if an exclusive Mykonian hideaway is on your wanderlist, you should have a look at Kalesma Mykonos, a 5-star boutique hotel overlooking the Aegean Sea. The resort’s 25 suites and two large villas blend local flair with high aesthetics, giving guests the feeling of being in an authentic Mykonian neighborhood. Kalesma Mykonos opened in 2022, introducing a luxury experience on the island that balances fun and privacy with genuine insider knowledge of off-the-beaten-path sites. ‘Kalesma’ means ‘inviting’ in Greek, a word that best expresses the ethos of this privately owned luxury boutique hotel.

Have you ever stayed at Kalesma Mykonos? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

Kalesma Mykonos features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Mykonos.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• Kalesma Mykonos is one of the most stylish luxury hotels on the famous Greek Island of Mykonos. Surely a place to see and be seen, Mykonos is so much more than its beaches, clubs and nightlife. Known as the Island of the Winds, Mykonos was the birthplace of Aeolus – appropriately, the wind god. His gusts pushed Odysseus toward home, only to have him return when a shipmate opened a bag that contained a fierce breeze that drove him back. Aeolus’s cave is located just below the Armenistis Lighthouse. Guests of Kalesma are invited to explore the island’s history, including its much-photographed windmills that date back to the 16th century – now ornamental, they were once essential to the island’s economy.

• Kalesma Mykonos is nestled on the hillside of Aleomandra, between Ornos Bay and Agios Ioannis. The Aleomandra neighborhood is named after the sacred Delian stables that, according to myth, provided shelter to the horses of the Olympic god Apollo. The 5-star boutique hotel is conveniently close to some of the island’s most renowned beaches, attractions and clubs, yet isolated enough to provide the feeling of seclusion and privacy. The property is just a short walk from Ornos beach and is also just under two miles (3 km) from Mykonos town. Both Mykonos’ airport and seaport are just a 20 min drive away (depending on traffic).

• Kalesma Mykonos is spread across five acres and set against a lush hillside blanketed with 20,000 plants. The 5-star boutique hotel tumbles down a slope to Ornos Bay, providing unobstructed views of the bay towards the east. On the top the hill are the hotel’s communal areas, which include a small lobby, boutique, stunning infinity pool, outdoor bar, restaurant and a patio with firepit looking out towards the west with views of the Aegean Sea. The hotel’s accommodation are located on the hillside below the communal areas. Kalesma Mykonos’ hilltop location and layout offer guests the unique opportunity to enjoy both sunrise and sunset from the same spot.

• The whitewashed collection of pavilions that make up Kalesma Mykonos have been created to resemble a charming Mykonian village.  The design is inspired by Greek tradition, local history and the “aloni” – an existing threshing floor on the property that became the source of inspiration for the style and character of the project. Local materials and artisans play an essential role in the hotel’s identity, with wood, marble, stone and osier giving a contemporary look to traditional Cycladic style. Cool earth tones like taupe, grey, dark brown and charcoal blend together with white-washed surfaces and bougainvillea-filled archways to give a strong sense of place and to allow the brilliant blue of the Aegean Sea to stand out.

• Kalesma Mykonos was designed by K-Studio, who was also the architect behind the new Mykonos Airport (which opened in 2021). The hotel’s sleek and minimalist interiors were created by Greek designer Vangelis Bonios of Studio Bonarchi, who embraced a refined and timeless style prioritizing comfort and functionality. The suites feature original artwork by Serbian artist Aleksandar Vac, whose ceramics evoke traditional Cycladic minimalistic forms. The lobby takes on an effortlessly cool look with furniture by Rick Owens, making Kalesma Mykonos the only hotel in the world to have pieces by the celebrated designer.

• Kalesma Mykonos features 25 one-bedroom suites with pools, which come in three room categories. It’s one of the few hotels in Mykonos where all rooms come with their own private pool, as well as sea views, private terraces, poolside sun loungers, outdoor showers and SONOS sound systems. During my holiday, I stayed in a “Kalesma Suite with Sea View & Private Pool”. Inside, the suite featured a bedroom and a bathroom (with bathtub and outdoor shower), while outside, a large terrace with private pool, sun beds and lounge area boasted a view of Ornos Bay. The suite’s design reflected the laid-back glamour of Mykonos, with whitewashed walls, a neutral earthy color palette and Cycladic aesthetics.

• Kalesma Mykonos also features two grand villas – Apollon Villa (three bedrooms) and Artemis Villa (four bedrooms). These villas are located right next to the fire pit patio, overlooking the subset side of the resort. Both villas can be united into the resort’s most exclusive retreat, the Leto Villa. The multi-bedroom villas can accommodate 6 to 14 guests and can be rented together to sleep larger groups. All villas have an open-plan living room with separate dining areas, a fully equipped kitchen with a pre-stocked refrigerator, wine fridge and private chef available upon request. Additional villa amenities include a private gym and 24/7 butler service. Guests can also book in-room spa treatments.

• Steps from the hotel’s infinity pool and offering panoramic perspectives of the sea, is Pere Ubu, Kalesma Mykonos’ (only) all-day restaurant with an menu created by executive chef Costas Tsingas. Each morning, Pere Ubu offers à la carte breakfast. During the day, the venue specializes in small ‘mezes’ – plates for guests to enjoy as full meals or light lunches. By night, the restaurant transforms into a vibrant social hub with innovative drinks and tasty bites. Pere Ubu embodies Kalesma’s community ethos with nightly sunset celebrations, evening DJ entertainment and weekly culinary events like intimate dinners exclusively for Kalesma’s guests.

• Kalesma arranges daily activities for guests to experience the true nature of Mykonos Island. Options include an organized cruise to a hidden cove, a guided tour of the sacred island of Delos, scuba diving lessons and private boat rentals. Kalesma can also arrange for tours through the alleys of Chora, night walks around the windmills or through Little Venice, and shopping sprees and food excursions to discover local treats and Mykonian delicacies. Off property, the concierge can make recommendations and bookings for guests at any restaurant or nightclub, as well as for sun loungers at the island’s 25 beaches.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

• Kalesma Mykonos is a small boutique hotel and lacks extensive leisure facilities. For example, the hilltop property has no beach access (although you can walk down to Ornos Bay, a 15 min stroll where several beach clubs are present). Also, wellness and sport facilities are limited to a small gym and two treatment rooms (but there isn’t a true spa). Finally, the variety of dining options is limited as there’s just one restaurant on site. As such, Kalesma Mykonos might be a great fit for honeymooners and couples who prefer to spend their time in Mykonos inside their villa, but it’s not the best choice for travelers who enjoy a true resort vibe or for traveling families.

• Kalesma Mykonos is one of the most expensive hotels in Mykonos, which is in line with the hotel’s strategy to promote itself as one of the most exclusive and private hotels on the island. The rate for one night in a suite with pool starts at 1700 euro per night in the high season, and it includes daily à carte breakfast, free internet access, all legal taxes and complimentary round-trip transfers to Mykonos Town. IMHO, the hotel is (grossly) overpriced (but that’s the case with each hotel in Mykonos these days), especially when you take into consideration its limited facilities.

• Kalesma Mykonos is built on the top of a hill. Most of the communal areas (e.g. pool, restaurant) and all the accommodations (with the exception of the two multi-bedroom villas) enjoy unobstructed views towards the east (Ornos Bay). Only a small part of the resort is facing the west, and this includes the outdoor courtyard with firepit and the two multi-bedroom villas. However, the view from here – including the sunset – is not the best, since there are power lines and a street directly beyond the property. Hence, I would not recommend booking one of the multi-bedroom villas at Kalesma Mykonos, unless you don’t care about the view and passing traffic.

MY VERDICT

• Location: 7/10
• Design: 9/10
• Pool: 9/10
• Rooms: 8/10
• Food: 8/10
• Breakfast: 9/10
• Spa: 6/10
• Service: 8/10
• Wow factor: 8/10
• Value for money: 5/10
• Overall experience: good – 8/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Save money: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Kalesma Mykonos via Virtuoso:
  • Room upgrade
  • Daily breakfast
  • Early check-in & late check-out
  • $100 USD hotel credit
  • For stays of 5 nights and more: one complimentary 4-course dinner for two

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

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Mykonos are the autumn months of September and October: the weather is still great, the tourist crowds have left, the sea temperature is at its warmest, and the hotel rates are within reasonable range. The spring months of April and May, before the summer rush comes, are also a great time to visit, although the sea is cold and you may encounter some cloudy days. Mykonos is a very popular holiday destination for Europeans in June, July and August: expect hordes of tourists, nonstop parties and soaring hotel rates at this time of year. Summers also see a lot of windy days, with the Meltemi blowing for long periods, especially in the afternoons (sometimes gale force like winds).

HOW TO GET THERE

Kalesma Mykonos is a 20 min car ride from the ferry harbour and a 15 min ride from the aiport. Click here for a constantly updated list of airlines that offer direct flights to Mykonos.

PHOTOS

Below is a selection of my photos of Kalesma Mykonos . To view more photos (including breakfast & dinner), click here.

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

The post Review: Kalesma Mykonos Luxury Hotel (Mykonos, Greece) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review.

Early July, I enjoyed one of my best holidays ever, an ultra-luxe safari in Botswana with Wilderness, Africa’s award-winning, leading eco-tourism company. My exact itinerary with Wilderness in Botswana can be found here (this site also allows you to book the same trip). You can read my trip reports here:

• Review: Lufthansa Boeing 747 Business Class (Frankfurt to Johannesburg)
• Review: Wilderness Jao Camp (Okavango Delta)
• Review: Wilderness Vumbura Plains (Okavango Delta)
• Review: Wilderness DumaTau (Linyanti Wildlife Reserve)
• Review: Lufthansa Boeing 747 First Class (Johannesburg to Frankfurt)

Today: Review of Wilderness DumaTau Camp (Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, Botswana)

• Hotel website: Wildernness DumaTau
• Location: Google maps

Nestled deep within the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, on the northernmost fringe of Botswana, lies DumaTau. The reserve’s diverse, pristine 95 000 acres offers truly exclusive excursions and close-up wildlife encounters. Newly rebuilt DumaTau takes full advantage of its 45 km (28 mi) of river frontage to create an unparalleled safari experience. Eight tented suites with private plunge pools sit on wooden walkways mere steps from the wildlife corridors, so animals often wander peacefully through camp. Interiors of hand-crafted mosaic tile, acacia wood, and local textiles reflect the heart of the Linyanti. The camp’s spa, the Osprey Retreat, soothes your soul. As do all the elephants, whose moving herds compose one of Africa’s most elemental rhythms. Similar in style to DumaTau, Little DumaTau is an intimate haven of sophisticated elegance, with just four supremely spacious guest suites.

Wilderness DumaTau features in my top 10 lists of the best luxury safari lodges in Botswana and my favorite Wilderness lodges in Africa.

Have you ever stayed at Wildernness DumaTau? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• DumaTau is situated in the the Linyanti Concession in Northern Botswana bordering the Chobe National Park. An abundance of wildlife roams freely between Linyanti and Chobe through woodland habitats, ancient floodplains and forests that make up this lush, unfenced reserve. The big game in this area increases dramatically during the dry season when the area hosts large herds of impala, blue wildebeest, giraffe and buffalo as well as the world’s highest density of elephant. Several packs of wild dog are found in the area and lion, leopard and cheetah are frequently sighted. This vast, untamed wilderness is the perfect location for those seeking a unique African adventure in a remote big game habitat.

• Located along the Osprey Lagoon within the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, Wilderness DumaTau enjoys a truly extraordinary setting. The lodge’s extensive lagoon frontage ensures that the guest suites and the communal area have uninterrupted views over the beautiful Osprey Lagoon and the movements of the mega-herds of elephants the Linyanti is so famous for. Due to its exclusive location, the camp offers an unrivalled wilderness experience, with private access to Zibadianja Lagoon and more than 45 km (28 mi) of exclusive traversing along the Linyanti River frontage, as well as the north and south banks of the Savuti Channel – think effortless space, privacy, seclusion and extraordinary wildlife encounters

• The lagoon-side setting – which regularly attracts herds of elephants – is key to the architecture and design of Wilderness DumaTau. The main lodge – which comprises a bar, dining room and a “curiosity room” under canvas – offer expansive views out over the water. The camp’s explorer tented style pays tribute to Botswana’s bygone eras, ancient migratory paths and the age of exploration, while reclaimed timber adds an extra architectural layer to enhance the main lodge (as well as guest tents). Throughout the lodge, a color palette of berry, blush, terracotta and greens evoke the wilderness beyond. A highlight is the lodge’s circular fire deck, which floats over the tranquil river, connected to the main lodge by a wooden staircase.

• Wilderness DumaTau features eight spacious tented suites – seven twin suites and one family unit – which are connected to the main lodge by an elevated timber walkway. Each guest suite has a comfortable and inviting indoor lounge, as well as spacious bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers. The luxurious guest suites are raised off the ground to take full advantage of the outstanding riverfront views. A sliding gauze door in the back of the tent improves airflow through the suite, while the en-suite facilities include a sliding fabric wall that can be closed to ensure absolute privacy. An extended deck, with private plunge pool, and awnings create a relaxing shaded space to soak in the views and watch the wildlife moving pas.

• Wilderness DumaTau was completely rebuilt and reopened in 2021, with the addition of Little DumaTau, a co-located but smaller and more intimate camp (with four identical suites). These two camps are situated on the same site as the previous DumaTau and are connected by an elevated timber walkway. Halfway this walkway, between the two camps, is communal area called the ‘Osprey Retreat’. Guests who stroll to the centrally located Osprey Retreat will discover not only a pergola with daybeds, a safari boutique, a bar with delicious fresh and healthy snacks, and a fully equipped gym, but also a welcoming ‘cool deck’ with a pool an in-pool loungers. The pool has been carefully aligned so that it appears to merge with the dark waters beyond. Right next to the Osprey Retreat is a luxurious spa treatment room.

• The design of the camp itself is intended to prompt questions and encourage guests to discover the purpose of DumaTau. The story of the camp and of the region is told through two unique, life-size ‘curiosity boxes’ in the guest suites containing compelling details about elephant and wild dog – both key species used to explain DumaTau’s conservation purpose. Additional curiosity boxes are also found in the interpretive library, further bringing these important stories to life. The Linyanti is a vital migration corridor for elephants, and serves as a dispersal hub for wild dog, and it is therefore crucial that the Linyanti is protected, with conservation tourism playing a vital role. Through the ongoing presence of Dumatau camp on this site, a meaningful contribution is made to make the area a safe haven for a diverse range of species.

• All meals at Wilderness DumaTau (e.g. breakfast, lunch, afternoon and tea) are included in the room rate. By way of acknowledging that sustainability relates to human livelihoods as well as ecosystems, the food offering at Wilderness DumaTau is based primarily on seasonal and locally available ingredients. Sourcing produce from suppliers in northern Botswana reduces food miles and supports small businesses. Breakfast is served at 6 am around a camp fire near the main lodge (right before the morning drive). Guest can opt to have their lunch al fresco on the camp’s barge. Dinners are served on the main lodge’ terrace with daily changing menus. Once a week, a barbeque , accompanied by dances of the staff, is held in the boma right behind the main pavilion.

• Sustainability is key to the DumaTau story – adherence to Wilderness Safaris’ long-standing ban on concrete in its camps meant that when it proved necessary, one of the original guest rooms could be disassembled and relocated with minimum disruption. Flexibility in the design of the expanded rooms meant that they could be built around existing trees. The timber cladding effect used throughout the camps has been achieved through repurposing wooden decking from the old DumaTau. On closer inspection, the details on the hand-dyed cushions reveal themselves to have been cut from old game-drive vehicle tyres. Wilderness DumaTau is also 100% solar-powered and all hot water is heated by solar geysers. Water-efficient showerheads, tap aerators and cisterns also feature.

• DumaTau is managed by Wilderness, one of my favorite safari companies. Wilderness was founded in 1983 in Botswana by two young guides, who wanted to ensure both conservation of wildlife areas and that the financial benefits of their safaris flow to Botswana and its people. Today, Wilderness Safaris is widely acclaimed as the continent’s foremost ecotourism operator, dedicated to conserving and restoring Africa’s wilderness and wildlife. They do this by creating life-changing journeys in some of the most remote and pristine areas in Africa, hereby helping to conserve Africa’s spectacular biodiversity and share ecotourism’s benefits with the local communities. Jao can be combined with a stay at Wilderness’ other top lodges in Botswana – Jao, Vumbura Plains and DumaTau – to create an authentic and evocative desert experience.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

• During the South African winter months (June to October), the area around Wilderness DumaTau is thriving with wildlife, including mega-herds of elephants and a good population of predators. To give you an idea, during my visit in the month of July, I witnessed lions chasing antelopes (right in front of the open car vehicle), a pack of wild dogs hunting some prey and a herd of 200+ elephants visiting a waterhole (all in one game drive).  However, if you visit outside the winter months, the game drives at Wilderness DumaTau may be less rewarding since the density of wildlife in the camp’s immediate vicinity is lower.

• Wilderness DumaTau is not fenced off, so guests are required to be vigilant at all times. Leopards, lions, buffalos, and elephants are present in the Okavango Delta, and there is no physical impediment to them entering the area around the lodge. Elephanst frequently visit the resort grounds. Under no circumstances are guests allowed to walk around the lodge at night, unless accompanied by a staff member. Do not worry though as it’s all part of the excitement of being immersed in a true African safari.

• Wilderness DumaTau can only be reached by small aircraft, either from Maun (30 min flight) or directly from one of the other Wilderness Camps in the area. The thought of flying in a small one-engine plane can make some travelers – including myself – nervous. That said, the flight itself is spectacular and offers phenomenal views of the delta, with wildlife gathering or galloping below. Also, Wilderness Air – the flying wing of Wilderness – is respected for its varied fleet of light aircraft suited to land on dirt airstrips in remote areas and for its team of passionate, professional pilots dedicated to guests’ safety, comfort, and satisfaction. And Wilderness Air offer more than just a connection, flying carefully orchestrated circuits maximizing the time of guests in the Okavango Delta. For example, when moving from one lodge to another, you’ll never have to backtrack via Maun and flight times are always between 11 am and 4 pm, allowing you, for instance, a morning’s dreamy mokoro ride in one lodge followed by an adventurous afternoon game drive in another lodge.

• Malaria is common in the northern parts of Botswana such as the Linyanti Concession (where Wilderness DumaTau is located), particularly during or after rainy season from November to April. Medications can be used to prevent the chances of contracting malaria. For advice on the use of any malaria prophylaxis, you need to contact the health authorities or your local travel clinic prior to your travels. In addition to any prophylactics, the following mitigation measures are recommended: cover your arms, legs and feet in the evenings and apply a mosquito repellent containing DEET.

MY VERDICT

• Location: 10/10
• Design: 8/10
• Pool: 9/10
• Rooms: 9/10
• Food: 9/10
• Breakfast: 8/10
• Spa: 9/10
• Service: 10/10
• Wow factor: 9/10
• Value for money: 10/10
• Overall experience: exceptional – 9.1/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Itinerary tip: My exact itinerary with Wilderness in Botswana – which included a stay at Jao, Vumbura Plains and DumaTau safari camps – can be found here (this site also allows you to book the same trip).

• Itinerary tip: I recommend a safari at Wilderness DumaTau between about June and October when game viewing is at its best.

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

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Wilderness DumaTau offers year-round safari activities. While each season brings a unique appeal, wildlife numbers are concentrated between June and October. These drier months offers prime opportunities to witness the annual migration of elephants along the Linyanti River, as well as sightings of predators such as lions and leopards attracted to the concentration of prey near water sources.

HOW TO GET THERE

Wilderness DumaTau can only be accessed by light aircraft into the nearby airstrip, which has daily flight connections with all camps in Okavango, Linyanti, Maun Airport (which is the main tourist getaway to Botswana) and Kasane (for connections to Livingstone and Victoria Falls). Wilderness takes care of booking all transfers and flight.

PHOTOS

Below is a selection of my photos of Wilderness DumaTau Camp . To view more photos (including meals and safari activities), click here.

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

The post Review: Wilderness DumaTau Camp (Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, Botswana) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review.

Early July, I enjoyed one of my best holidays ever, an ultra-luxe safari in Botswana with Wilderness, Africa’s award-winning, leading eco-tourism company. My exact itinerary with Wilderness in Botswana can be found here (this site also allows you to book the same trip). You can read my trip reports here:

• Review: Lufthansa Boeing 747 Business Class (Frankfurt to Johannesburg)
• Review: Wilderness Jao Camp (Okavango Delta)
• Review: Wilderness Vumbura Plains (Okavango Delta)
• Review: Wilderness DumaTau (Linyanti Wildlife Reserve)
• Review: Lufthansa Boeing 747 First Class (Johannesburg to Frankfurt)

Today: Review of  Wilderness Vumbura Plains (Okavango Delta, Botswana)

• Hotel website: Wilderness Vumbura Plains Camp
• Location: Google maps

Vumbura Plains offers travelers a sublime African wilderness journey, with arguably the best wildlife encounters in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. A modern-style safari camp that wouldn’t look out of place in an architecture magazine, Wilderness Vumbura Plains is designed and operated in total empathy with its diverse surroundings. Partnerships with local communities in this region of the Okavango Delta have created empowerment opportunities while allowing guests access to its many treasures. Fourteen light, airy guest suites feature designer fittings and touches of unabashed luxury, including private plunge pools and salas, as well as indoor and outdoor showers. Safari activities focus on day and night game drives through a variety of game-rich terrains and on (seasonal) water activities.

Have you ever stayed at Wilderness Vumbura Plains? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• Wilderness Vumbura Plains is one of the top lodges in the Okavango Delta – a World Heritage Site as it is the largest inland delta in the world – in the northwestern corner of Botswana. The magnificent Okavango River sprawls out over the dry sands of the Kalahari Desert forming this flourishing waterlogged oasis featuring countless meandering waterways and crystal clear lagoons studded with water lilies, as well as fertile floodplains and reeded islands inhabited with abundant wildlife. Visitors in the Okavango Delta can enjoy a number of wonderful activities such as game viewing, fishing, bird watching or taking an authentic guided mokoro excursion through this wetland paradise in a traditional dugout canoe. Commonly spotted animals include: lion, rhino, leopard, giraffe, hippos, elephants, crocodiles and countless species of bird.

• Wilderness Vumbura Plains lies in the far north of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. The lodge is located in a 60 000-hectare private wilderness area known for its excellent wildlife spotting opportunities and water activities. The enthralling mopane bushveld and vast floodplains are home to a huge number of animal species, including wild dog, lion, hyena, and leopard (these species are the most commonly spotted) as well as giraffes, elephants, Burchell’s zebra, and numerous antelope species. The reserve offers day and night game drives, as well as guided walks and photography tours. Fringing the world-famous Moremi Game Reserve, the lodge’s private wildlife reserve is decorated with permanent waterways, tree islands, and swamps – providing the chance for kayaking, boat tours, and bird spotting.

• Wilderness Vumbura Plains is reached by light aircraft from Maun (or from other Wilderness lodges). The bush plane flies at low altitude over golden-grassed floodplains, framed by lush palm islands, that are inhabited by a staggering variety of wildlife which can be observed from a bird’s-eye perspective. For the flights, Wilderness uses its own fleet of Cessna aircraft. Wilderness Air has gained a reputation for steadfast operations and excellent guest service, respected for its varied fleet of light aircraft suited to land on dirt airstrips in remote areas and for its team of passionate, professional pilots dedicated to guests’ safety, comfort, and satisfaction. In Maun, guests awaiting their flights or transfers have full access to the Wilderness Lounge, which is located in a building adjacent to the airport. The lounge offers seating and dining facilities in its fully air-conditioned space. Wi-Fi, showers, snacks and drinks.

• Wilderness Vumbura Plains is made up of two satellite safari camps – North Camp and South Camp – which are run semi-independently and connected by an elevated, timber walkway that hangs over the floodplain. Although North and South Camp have a slightly different layout, they both are very similar in design and feature identical facilities. Each camp comprises seven large pool suites: all suites at the South Camp are single bedroom suites while two of the seven suites at North Camp are designed with families in mind (each with two bedrooms). At the heart of both camps is a communal pavilion, with large indoor and outdoor living & dining areas, a bar and sunken lounges. Both camps encompass expansive vistas across the vast floodplains and its native wildlife.

• Wilderness Vumbura Plains underwent an extensive refurbishment of its exteriors and interiors in 2022. All furniture was replaced or enhanced to blend into the African bush, resulting in a refreshed look and feel that showcases a sense of place and culture. The camp’s stylish design is best described as modern, organic and minimalist, with various design elements bringing nature inside. The open-sided lounges at both camps boast artwork, screens, and maps on the Delta’s formation and the vast range of life it supports. One entire lounge wall is hung with colorful locally woven baskets, whose diverse patterns tell different stories or depict particular animal patterns. The camp’s muted earth color palette flows in shades of turquoise, blue, purple, and green, paying homage to the surrounding wilderness.

• Wilderness Vumbura Plains’ 14 luxury suites are split equally between both satellite camps (North & south Camp), with all suites spaced well apart and raised up on decks. Each suite features a large outdoor deck with a shaded lounge area, some sun beds, and a plunge pool. Inside, each suite features high thatched ceilings, a huge kingsize bed, a sunken lounge area, and an ensuite open-plan bathroom with double vanity and indoor- & outdoor showers. Enlarged underwater photographs by Andrea Crawford adorn clad wardrobe doors and shower screens. Redesigned doors and windows throughout maximise expansive views of the floodplains, ilala palms, and small islands. The suites feature all five star facilities you’d expect in a top-notch lodge, such as WiFi and a mini bar, stocked full of complimentary beers, wine,  and spirits.

• All meals at Vumbura Plains are included in the room rate. The lodge’s cuisine is closely aligned with traditional local fare. The scrumptious dining options celebrate the delicious local, seasonal ingredients of the region, its traditions and Wilderness’ partnerships with the local farmers, suppliers and artisans. Ingredients are purchased locally, thereby reducing the food miles inherent in every meal, and providing neighboring communities with an alternative revenue stream. Each meal is a journey into the culture and traditions of the people of northern Botswana, while in-camp interaction with chefs and service staff brings the stories and proverbs associated with each dish to life. Signature dishes use the traditional powdered root of the Okavango waterlily, ‘tswii’. Local ‘phapata’ bread cooked over the morning camp fire is an early morning safari staple.

• The 60 000-hectare Vumbura Plains Private Wilderness Area is leased from five villages through the Okavango Community Trust (OCT), a partnership that spans 20 successful years of impactful conservation tourism in the area. The benefits of revenue generation, job creation, and alternative sources of income are shared with its neighboring rural stakeholders. The OCT was formed in 1996 to represent the interests of the camp’s five neighbouring villages – Seronga, Gunotsoga, Eretsha, Beetsha and Gudigwa – in the eastern panhandle of the Okavango Delta. In co-operation with the Botswana Government and various stakeholders, it distributes funds for community upliftment and aid to these remote northern communities. More than 150 employees from OCT villages are employed across Wilderness camps.

• Vumbura’s prolific wildlife and varied habitats – mopane, acacia woodland, floodplains and permanent swamp – offer guests an exciting year-round water- and land-based activities in the Okavango Delta with extraordinary game viewing. Wilderness experiences include day and night game drives in 4WD safari vehicles, bush walks and mokoro rides (dugout canoes), as well as scenic helicopter flights and hot air ballooning. It makes Vumbura Plains one of the most exclusive destinations in the Okavango Delta for the discerning adventure-seeker. Vumbura Plains’ unique community concession agreement means that many of the professional guides here grew up in this area, adding an extra layer of authenticity and cultural relevance to their expert tracking and identification skills. Each and every guest’s experience is tailored to suit their particular interests.

• Wilderness Vumbura Camp is managed by Wilderness Safaris, one of my favorite safari companies. Wilderness was founded in 1983 in Botswana by two young guides, who wanted to ensure both conservation of wildlife areas and that the financial benefits of their safaris flow to Botswana and its people. Today, Wilderness Safaris is widely acclaimed as the continent’s foremost ecotourism operator, dedicated to conserving and restoring Africa’s wilderness and wildlife. They do this by creating life-changing journeys in some of the most remote and pristine areas in Africa, hereby helping to conserve Africa’s spectacular biodiversity and share ecotourism’s benefits with the local communities. Jao can be combined with a stay at Wilderness’ other lodges in Botswana to create an authentic and evocative desert experience, from Jao and Mombo to DumaTau in the far north.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

• Contrary to other Wilderness premium safari camps in Botswana (DumaTau, Jao and Mombo), Vumbura Plains does not feature communal wellness- and leisure facilities, such as a pool area, spa or gym. The idea is that guests relax at their enormous suites in between safari activities, where they can enjoy their private plunge pools overlooking the flood plains. And while there isn’t a dedicated spa, guests can request in-tent massage treatments (at an additional cost). These safari massage treatments are quite popular, so be sure to book your session when you arrive. The suites at the camp also include a gym-in-a-basket, consists of an exercise mat, weights and resistance bands. And while there aren’t dedicated leisure facilities at the lodge, don’t miss out on the superb curio shop (located between North & South Camp) as it’s one of the best in Botswana.

• The suites at Wilderness Vumbura Plains are spaced well apart along the boardwalk, so this can mean long up-and-down walks when you’re staying in one of the suites further away from the main lodge. If you have difficulties walking, make sure to inform the staff upfront and request a suite closer to the main lodge.

• Wilderness Vumbura Plains is not fenced off, so guests are required to be vigilant at all times. Leopards, lions, buffalos, and elephants are present in the Okavango Delta, and there is no physical impediment to them entering the area around the lodge. Under no circumstances are guests allowed to walk around the lodge at night, unless accompanied by a staff member. Do not worry though as it’s all part of the excitement of being immersed in a true African safari.

• Wilderness Vumbura Plains can only be reached by small aircraft, either from Maun (30 min flight) or directly from one of the other Wilderness Camps in the area. The thought of flying in a small one-engine plane can make some travelers – including myself – nervous. That said, the flight itself is spectacular and offers phenomenal views of the delta, with wildlife gathering or galloping below. Also, Wilderness Air – the flying wing of Wilderness – is respected for its varied fleet of light aircraft suited to land on dirt airstrips in remote areas and for its team of passionate, professional pilots dedicated to guests’ safety, comfort, and satisfaction. And Wilderness Air offer more than just a connection, flying carefully orchestrated circuits maximizing the time of guests in the Okavango Delta. For example, when moving from one lodge to another, you’ll never have to backtrack via Maun and flight times are always between 11 am and 4 pm, allowing you, for instance, a morning’s dreamy mokoro ride in one lodge followed by an adventurous afternoon game drive in another lodge.

• Malaria is common in the northern parts of Botswana such as the Okavango Delta (where Wilderness Vumbura Plains is located) and Chobe areas, particularly during or after rainy season from November to April. Medications can be used to prevent the chances of contracting malaria. For advice on the use of any malaria prophylaxis, you need to contact the health authorities or your local travel clinic prior to your travels. In addition to any prophylactics, the following mitigation measures are recommended: cover your arms, legs and feet in the evenings and apply a mosquito repellent containing DEET.

MY VERDICT

• Location: 10/10
• Design: 8/10
• Pool: 9/10 (only private plunge pools)
• Rooms: 9/10
• Food: 9/10
• Breakfast: 8/10
• Spa: 8/10 (only in-room treatments)
• Service: 10/10
• Wow factor: 9/10
• Value for money: 10/10
• Overall experience: exceptional 9/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Itinerary tip: My exact itinerary with Wilderness in Botswana – which included a stay at Jao, Vumbura Plains and DumaTau safari camps – can be found here (this site also allows you to book the same trip).

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

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Wilderness Vumbura Plains offers year-round safari activities. While each season brings a unique appeal, wildlife numbers are concentrated between June and October. These drier months also allow for seasonal game drive opportunities.

• The best time to visit the Okavango Delta is during the dry season from June to September. Although called the ‘dry season’, the water levels of the Okavango Delta are at their highest point in these months as the flood waters are arriving from Angola, with animals flocking to the waters from the dry hinterland. This is also when many camps can offer water activities (e.g. boat rides, mokoro tours). Going by the rule of thumb, water in the Delta starts to flow in June (when it arrives from the Angolan Highlands), while by the end of August, most of the water has passed through the Delta and water levels start to drop again.
• In the summer months (December to February), the temperatures are soaring and thundershowers are frequent. During this time of the year, some areas in the delta become waterlogged, making road travel challenging and airstrips trickier to traverse. That said, excellent game viewing can be enjoyed in the summer months too, in the right areas with good resident game and permanent water channels. Also, if you are a birder, the best time to visit the Okavango Delta is generally during the summer months when the Okavango is bursting with resident and migratory birds.

HOW TO GET THERE

Wilderness Vumbura Plains can only be accessed by light aircraft into the nearby Jao Airstrip, which has daily flight connections with all other camps in Okavango, Linyanti, Maun Airport (which is the main tourist getaway to Botswana) and north to Kasane (for connections to Livingstone and Victoria Falls). Wilderness takes care of booking all transfers and flight.

PHOTOS

Below is a selection of my photos of Wilderness Vumbura Plains. To view more photos (including meals and safari activities), click here.

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

The post Review: Wilderness Vumbura Plains (Okavango Delta, Botswana) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review.

Early July, I enjoyed one of my best holidays ever, an ultra-luxe safari in Botswana with Wilderness, Africa’s award-winning, leading eco-tourism company. My exact itinerary with Wilderness in Botswana can be found here (this site also allows you to book the same trip). You can read my trip reports here:

• Review: Lufthansa Boeing 747 Business Class (Frankfurt to Johannesburg)
• Review: Wilderness Jao Camp (Okavango Delta)
• Review: Wilderness Vumbura Plains (Okavango Delta)
• Review: Wilderness DumaTau (Linyanti Wildlife Reserve)
• Review: Lufthansa Boeing 747 First Class (Johannesburg to Frankfurt)

Today: Review of  Wilderness Jao Camp (Okavango Delta, Botswana)

• Hotel website: Wilderness Jao Camp
• Location: Google maps

Wilderness Jao Camp is a knockout, one of Africa’s most luxurious safari lodges. The ultra-luxe property lies in the 60 000-hectare Jao Reserve in the heart of the Okavango, under a tree canopy on its own remote island, with renowned Moremi Game Reserve bordering on the east. Revamped in 2019, multiple-award winner Jao is a sculptural marvel of natural and recycled materials, of steel, wood, and glass, of towering, spacious interiors embracing the light, the bush. Jao comprises a main area elevated into the tree canopy, two exclusive villas, and five suites, all with private plunge pools, lounge & dining areas, and en-suite bathrooms, including indoor & outdoor showers. With views of the magnificent floodplains from almost everywhere and offering spectacular land- and water-based game viewing, Jao’s a place of wonder and supreme serenity.

Wilderness Jao Camp features in my top 10 list of the best luxury safari lodges in Botswana.

Have you ever stayed at Wilderness Jao Camp? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• Ultra-luxe Wilderness Jao Camp is located on the western edge of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. The famous Okavango Delta in north-west Botswana is one of the world’s very few major interior delta systems that do not flow into a sea or ocean, with a wetland system that is almost intact. The delta is affected by seasonal flooding with flood water from Angola reaching the Delta between April and June, peaking in July. This peak coincides with Botswana’s dry season resulting in great migrations of big game from the dry hinterland. A UNESCO’s World Heritage Site since 2014, the delta is an oasis in an otherwise dry environment the Okavango Delta. Protected by the Moremi Game Reserve on its eastern edge, the delta is known for its superb wildlife sightings and also houses some of Africa’s most exclusive safari lodges.

• Wilderness Jao Camp is reached by light aircraft from nearby Maun. The flight to Jao in a small bush plane over spectacular wilderness, with wildlife gathering or galloping below, is one of the greatest safari thrills. The light aircraft flies at low altitude over golden-grassed floodplains, framed by lush palm islands, that are inhabited by a staggering variety of wildlife which can be observed from a bird’s-eye perspective. Wilderness uses its own fleet of Cessna 208B Grand Caravans for guest transport, guaranteeing improved comfort, speed, and reliability. In Maun (the main getaway to the delta), guests awaiting their flights or transfers have full access to the Wilderness Lounge, which is located in a building adjacent to the airport. The lounge offers seating and dining facilities in its fully air-conditioned space. Wi-Fi, showers, snacks and drinks.

• Built 23 years ago by the Kays family – Cathy, husband David, son Martin and team – Wilderness Jao Camp rests under a tree canopy on its own remote island in one of the most picturesque concessions in the Okavango Delta. Surrounded by a watery garden of channels, reeds, and lilies, land- and water-based game viewing are spectacular there, with huge wildlife diversity, ranging from the elusive Pel’s fishing-owl, to the infamous ‘Jao Mafia’ mongoose gang, to a myriad of big cats, to cohabiting crocs and hippos, to vast antelope, buffalo, and elephant herds. Day and night game drives are possible all year round, but for most guests, the water activities are the highlight and they include mokoro trips, fishing, and boating in the wet areas (only possible during the flooding of the delta).

• Wilderness Jao Camp’s magnificent design embraces the camp’s beautiful delta location. The camp’s lead architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, who also designed North Island in the Seychelles, took a fresh and contemporary approach to the sense of adventure the lodge exudes – creating a feeling of not knowing what to expect around the next corner, adding an element of surprise and delight in Jao’s architectural marvel. The towering architectural structures take their cue from forms found in nature and includes a series of highly sculptural, emotive spaces that amplify the blur between the concept of shelter, art and architecture. A color palette of creams, greens, soft purple and splashes of yellow is used, incorporating a unique botanical theme with special emphasis placed on the water lily.

• Wilderness Jao Camp is a collection of different spaces that take guests on a spatial adventure through the delta. At the heart of the camp is the double-story main area, which is elevated into the three canopy.  This area has an indoor lounge and dining area which can be opened up to the elements with its tall glass stacking and folding doors, or sealed off against the cold in winter or bugs in summer. A stately iron fireplace set on a sandstone slab creates a cosy ambiance on cold winter nights. The main feature of this area is an impressive bar with a cedar counter over an angular iron base, with a backdrop of leadwood uprights holding glass shelves. Above the bar hang hand-thrown, ceramic lily-like lights in a mass display offset with water-colored strapping and a large ceramic leaf-imprinted disc. Adjacent to this indoor salon and under the same roof structure is an outdoor lounge, comprising separate seating areas and private dining tables.

• A key feature of Wilderness Jao Camp is its museum & gallery, which is located adjacent to the main lodge. The double-volume structure has a library, wine cellar and gallery on the upper level – where items are on display for educational purposes – and a boutique on the lower level. Among the gallery items is a series of prints from the National Herbarium in Pretoria, of botanical pressings made by the lodge owner’s great-grandfather – EE Galpin – who was one of the pre-eminent botanists of his time, and has been called the ‘Prince of Collectors’. He left 16 000 sheets to the Herbarium, and a number of plant species have been named after him. We are selecting plants of the region that he identified. Other items on display are a series of animal skeletons – including a giant giraffe skeleton at the center of the space – mounted and displayed like a in museum.

• Wilderness Jao Camp features five enormous tented suites and two exclusive villas, which are located along an elevated walkway that seemingly floats over the bush. Each suite features a lounge & dining area, kitchen facility plus an ensuite bathroom with a bathtub and indoor & outdoor showers. All suites at Jao are open plan with high-pitched roofs, creating volumes of space. Glass or metal gauze aluminium doors open to an expansive outdoor deck with private plunge pool, looking out over the magnificent floodplains and its wildlife. The suite’s furnishings are hand-crafted and designed especially for Jao, so everything is unique. During my visit, I stayed in one of the two Jao Villas, which could accommodate up to four people in the two identical guest rooms centered around a main lounge & dining area; guests staying in a villa enjoy special perks, such as a private vehicle, guide, chef and butler.

• Wilderness Jao Camp features lovely leisure and wellness facilities, to keep guests entertained in between the safari rides. The lodge’s intimate spa is tucked away beneath palm trees in a tranquil location next to the main lodge. It features a small reception pavilion as well as two circular treatment rooms that come with impressive saligna-laminated beams, rosewood-clad ceilings and rosewood floors, and which are surrounded by tranquil water ponds. Located below the main lodge and set along one of the Delta’s waterways is the main pool area. With its unique nest-like canopy pavilion for dappled shade, the circular pool projects out over the floodplain with 270-degree views of the delta and is the ideal spot to enjoy the sunset. Right next to the pool is a small gym, which also enjoys stunning views over the lush waterways.

• Food at Wilderness Jao Camp is the best I’ve ever had in any safari lodge in Africa (kudos to the female chef). Dining at Jao is an experience in itself, and in essence is the spirit of the Delta, simplicity made special. Meals are served in the main dining room but they can also be served in each guest room, and if staying in one of the two villas, you can have your own private chef come to your room and make your dinner for you. The lodge can also do meals in the bush – and whether you are eating brunch with the water lapping around your ankles, or on drier land with the roar of the lions in the distance, you will hold the experience for the rest of your life.

• Jao Camp is managed by Wilderness, one of my favorite safari companies. Wilderness was founded in 1983 in Botswana by two young guides, who wanted to ensure both conservation of wildlife areas and that the financial benefits of their safaris flow to Botswana and its people. Today, Wilderness Safaris is widely acclaimed as the continent’s foremost ecotourism operator, dedicated to conserving and restoring Africa’s wilderness and wildlife. They do this by creating life-changing journeys in some of the most remote and pristine areas in Africa, hereby helping to conserve Africa’s spectacular biodiversity and share ecotourism’s benefits with the local communities. Jao can be combined with a stay at Wilderness’ other lodges in Botswana to create an authentic and evocative desert experience, from Vumbura Plains and Mombo to DumaTau in the far north.

• Wilderness Jao is a place that is dedicated to the conservation of the Okavango Delta and its unique ecosystem – the waters and the dry land, and the plants, birds and wildlife that call it home. In line with Wilderness’ commitment to operating with a light eco-footprint, Jao is 100% solar powered, with a power plant that works on one of the biggest Victron inverter systems in the world, and the largest lithium-ion battery bank in Southern Africa. The suites and villas are cooled with an indirect Climate Wizard evaporative cooler, using a fraction of the energy of conventional air conditioning. They are also fitted with innovative self-igniting Calore fireplaces, which use pellets made of sawdust left over from working natural wood, without any additives or caking agents.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

• Water levels fluctuate throughout the year in the Okavango Delta and also vary from one year to the next. In general, during the summer month (December to February), the focus in the Jao Reserve is more on game drives than water activities, while the opposite happens in the drier winter months when the area around the camp fills with the waters flowing in from Angola (May to September). The camp and the reserve are at their most beautiful during the floods – which also attracts plenty of wildlife and predators – so make sure to carefully research the timing of your stay to maximize your chances for great sightings. As with the water levels, the density of vegetation – and thus your best chances for spotting wildlife – is also dependent on the time of year and rainfall.

• Wilderness Jao Camp is set in one the most pristine areas of the Okavango Delta. During the seasonal flooding (which peaks in July), a tremendous number of red lechwe (an antelope species) can be found on the expansive wetlands around the camp and watching them running through the floodplains and channels is a sight to behold. Also, wild dogs frequently den near the lodge, making Jao one of the best spots in Africa to spot this extremely rare species. But aside from this, there isn’t a lot of big game to spot during safari drives in the immediate vicinity of the lodge (except when you are lucky and lions or leopards are passing through the area). That said, Jao offers half day excursions to Hunda Island, the largest island in the area which is reached by a 40 min scenic boat trip. Hunda is home to plenty of buffalos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and a large pride of lions. However, if spotting big game is what are you looking for, I’d recommend to start your trip at Jao, to relax and to enjoy the best water activities in the delta, before proceeding to another Wilderness lodge where big game is abundantly present (e.g. Mombo, Vumbura or DumaTau).

• The main pool at Wilderness Jao Camp as well as the private pools at the villas and suites are plunge pools. They are great to refresh a little after a long game drive or to cool down during hot summer afternoon, but they aren’t suitable for swimming laps.

• Wilderness Jao Camp can only be reached by small aircraft, either from Maun (a 30 min flight) or directly from one of the other Wilderness Camps in the area. The thought of flying in a small one-engine plane can make some travelers – including myself – nervous. That said, the flight itself is spectacular and offers phenomenal views of the delta, with wildlife gathering or galloping below. Also, Wilderness Air – the flying wing of Wilderness – is respected for its varied fleet of light aircraft suited to land on dirt airstrips in remote areas and for its team of passionate, professional pilots dedicated to guests’ safety, comfort, and satisfaction. And Wilderness Air offer more than just a connection, flying carefully orchestrated circuits maximizing the time of guests in the Okavango Delta. For example, when moving from one lodge to another, you’ll never have to backtrack via Maun and flight times are always between 11 am and 4 pm, allowing you, for instance, a morning’s dreamy mokoro ride in one lodge followed by an adventurous afternoon game drive in another lodge.

• Wilderness Jao Camp is not fenced off, so guests are required to be vigilant at all times. Leopards, lions, buffalos, and elephants are present in the Okavango Delta, and there is no physical impediment to them entering the area around the lodge. Under no circumstances are guests allowed to walk around the lodge at night, unless accompanied by a staff member. Do not worry though as it’s all part of the excitement of being immersed in a true African safari.

• Malaria is common in the northern parts of Botswana such as the Okavango Delta (where Wilderness Jao Camp is located) and Chobe areas, particularly during or after rainy season from November to April. Medications can be used to prevent the chances of contracting malaria. For advice on the use of any malaria prophylaxis, you need to contact the health authorities or your local travel clinic prior to your travels. In addition to any prophylactics, the following mitigation measures are recommended: cover your arms, legs and feet in the evenings and apply a mosquito repellent containing DEET.

MY VERDICT

• Location: 10/10
• Design: 10/10
• Pool: 9/10
• Rooms: 10/10
• Food: 10/10
• Breakfast: 9/10
• Spa: 9/10
• Service: 10/10
• Wow factor: 10/10
• Value for money: 10/10
• Overall experience: exceptional 9,7/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Itinerary tip: My exact itinerary with Wilderness in Botswana – which included a stay at Jao, Vumbura Plains and DumaTau safari camps – can be found here (this site also allows you to book the same trip).

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

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Wilderness Jao Camp offers year-round safari activities. While each season brings a unique appeal, wildlife numbers are concentrated between June and October. These drier months also allow for seasonal game drive opportunities.

• The best time to visit the Okavango Delta is during the dry season from June to September. Although called the ‘dry season’, the water levels of the Okavango Delta are at their highest point in these months as the flood waters are arriving from Angola, with animals flocking to the waters from the dry hinterland. This is also when many camps can offer water activities (e.g. boat rides, mokoro tours). Going by the rule of thumb, water in the Delta starts to flow in June (when it arrives from the Angolan Highlands), while by the end of August, most of the water has passed through the Delta and water levels start to drop again.
• In the summer months (December to February), the temperatures are soaring and thundershowers are frequent. During this time of the year, some areas in the delta become waterlogged, making road travel challenging and airstrips trickier to traverse. That said, excellent game viewing can be enjoyed in the summer months too, in the right areas with good resident game and permanent water channels. Also, if you are a birder, the best time to visit the Okavango Delta is generally during the summer months when the Okavango is bursting with resident and migratory birds.

HOW TO GET THERE

Wilderness Jao Camp can only be accessed by light aircraft into the nearby Jao Airstrip, which has daily flight connections with all other camps in Okavango, Linyanti, Maun Airport (which is the main tourist getaway to Botswana) and north to Kasane (for connections to Livingstone and Victoria Falls). Wilderness takes care of booking all transfers and flight.

PHOTOS

Below is a selection of my photos of Wilderness Jao Camp . To view more photos (including meals and safari activities), click here.

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The post Review: Wilderness Jao Camp (Okavango Delta, Botswana) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

I recently enjoyed a phenomenal holiday in the Maldives, where I stayed at the archipelago’s four most exclusive ultra-luxury resorts. You can read my reviews here:

• Review: Beond Airlines A319 Business Class from Zürich to the Maldives
• Review: One&Only Reethi Rah Maldives
• Review: seaplane transfer to Cheval Blanc Randheli Maldives
• Review: Cheval Blanc Randheli Maldives 
• Review: Soneva Fushi
• Review: Soneva Jani
• Review: SO/Maldives (today)
• Review: Etihad Airways B787 Business Class from Male to Abu Dhabi
• Review: Etihad Airways A380 First Class from Abu Dhabi to London

Today: Review of SO/ Maldives

• Hotel website: SO/ Maldives
• Location: Google Maps

Located just a 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé’s Velana International Airport, SO/ Maldives harmoniously blends rare accessibility with exquisite privacy, with each of the 80 individually designed villas nestled directly on its own slice of white-sand beach or on stilts above the lagoon. Innovative restaurant and bar concepts are designed to offer a refreshing counterpart to the ubiquitous resort all-day dining buffet, while the cultural programming brings together the best of music, fashion, design and art. With diverse dining, a playful beach club and serene spa all set in a private lagoon enclave, SO/ Maldives offers moments to escape, explore and play.

Have you ever stayed at SO/ Maldives? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• SO/ Maldives is set in the Emboodhoo Lagoon within the multi-island destination of Crossroads Maldives, just a 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé’s Velana International Airport (making transfers from/to the airport easy). Crossoards is an artificial island complex located in the Emboodhoo lagoon at the northern tip of the South Male Atoll. Going beyond the traditional ‘one island, one resort’ concept that typifies the region, Crossroads Maldives offers a new integrated experience, offering its guests access to over 14 restaurants, a night-club, a marine discovery centre, large-scale event venues and much more. The project houses several hotels: SAii Lagoon Maldives (Curio Collection by Hilton), Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, and SO/ Maldives.

• In a break with the traditional tropical architecture which is omni-present in the Maldives, SO/ Maldives features a bold design, drawing inspiration from the craftsmanship and theatricality of contemporary couture, and appealing to a younger clientele. Upon arrival, guests are met by a modern glass over-water pavilion, which sets the aesthetic tone of the hotel with clean lines, cool neutrals, and natural wood, juxtaposed against vibrant accents and a sculptural, red-latticed central staircase. The hotel’s distinctive walkways are framed by billowing fabrics or architectural timber canopies, making a striking counterpart to the island’s lush natural flora, and referencing the dramatic styling of high fashion presentations.

• Created in collaboration with leading artists and fashion designers, SO/ Maldives has curated a stylish collection of 80 beachfront and overwater villas ​​that epitomize modern luxury and command attention with their avant-garde design. Spanning one to three bedrooms and eight categories, the villas are designed for open plan living, each with a private pool and deck from which guests can enjoy ocean views. From the 120 sqm. Lagoon Water Pool Villa Collection and the 410sqm. Three-Bedroom Ocean Water Pool Atelier, to the 238 sqm Family Beach Pool Villa with Capsule, which features adjoining “sleep pods” for younger travelers and multi-generational groups, each villa is a cocoon of modern luxury that comes with Maison CODAGE toiletries, which employ sustainably-sourced vegan ingredients; plush robes and slippers; and individualized concierge service

• A complete antithesis of the staid all-day dining buffet, SO/ Maldives offers three distinct dining options, each with its own unique food-driven concept.
  • The Citronelle Club is an all-day dining destination where flavors are woven into a menu of Pan-Asian cuisine.
  • The French Riviera-inspired Lazuli Beach Club is a sophisticated day-to-night beach bar where guests can enjoy sunbathing around the multicolored mosaic pool. The menu features creative and healthy Mediterranean fare, including a Prosciutto di Parm pizza with olives, wild arugula, parmigiano Reggiano and stracciatella, while vibrant cocktails are waiting to be sipped alongside tunes by visiting DJs in the evenings.
  • Located in the hotel’s modern arrival pavilion, Hadaba celebrates the atmosphere and flavors of Arabian nights with Levantine slow-cooked dishes and smoked delicacies, such as Saltbush Lamb Cutlets with glazed eggplant, za’atar and toum and Maldivian Lobster with Aleppo pepper, garlic butter and finger lime.

• The property’s small spa facility – called Wellness Camp – is an East-meets-West concept that offers unlimited access to fitness and relaxation in an unparalleled setting. A restorative spa menu curated alongside Salon C. Stellar, featuring Maison CODAGE, Comfort Zone and Odacité products to name a few, offers a nutritive approach to wellness with tailor-made care. This includes LED and quartz beds for cutting-edge relaxation, ancient wisdom, and maximum personalization to meet guests’ every need. Each treatment employs carefully selected ingredients, advanced technology and is exquisitely crafted to meet the guests’ desired result. The facilities also include steam and sauna rooms, a Vichy Rainforest Shower, and a revitalizing vitality pool. The state-of-the-art gym showcases the latest Technogym and Alo equipment, offering sweeping views of the cyanic waters. 

• An array of paid and complimentary water-based adventures including kayaking, parasailing, snorkeling, jet ski, stand-up paddleboarding, and offsite excursions are available to further enhance travelers’ experience of the island. Guests can learn how to scuba dive, or for experienced divers, there is a wide selection of curated dives that can be arranged daily including turtle expeditions, outer reef explorations and traditional Maldivian fishing excursions. Other lessons available for purchase are windsurfing, kitesurfing, catamaran courses, parasailing, surfing, hydro flight rentals and more. Private boats and yachts are also available for guests to charter for private exploration by the hour or the day. 

• Younger guests at SO/ Maldives can enjoy a wide selection of activities and areas customized to their ages and needs – whether it’s making new friends at The Zone (Teen’s Club for ages 12-16) or The Nest (Kids Club for ages 4-11), which are both fully equipped with toys, games and activities, or enjoying the myriad of family-forward programming such as beach volleyball, bocce ball, soccer, watersports and more. Babysitting for children under 4 years of age is available at an extra cost.

• Vivid, vivacious and full of personality, SO/ Hotels & Resorts are only found in socially vibrant destinations such as Berlin, Bangkok and Singapore. One of the fastest-growing brands in Accor’s lifestyle portfolio, it is designed for savvy travellers who have a passion for fashion and like to keep their finger on the pulse. Every stay is underpinned by the brand’s signature ‘Just Say SO’ service, to craft truly unforgettable experiences. SO/ Maldives will join Accor’s collection of five resorts in the Maldives which include the midscale Mercure brand, premium Pullman and Mövenpick brands, and the luxury Raffles and Fairmont brands.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

• Just like its neighboring resorts in Crossroad Maldives, SO/ Maldives is located on a man-made island, which was built using sand scooped from the ocean floor and layered atop living coral reefs, mimicking a process that usually takes thousands of years. To ensure the construction was as sustainable as possible, marine biologists were brought in to work alongside the architects. Damage-reduction measures included covering the existing reef with silt nets to protect the corals from suffocating sand and dust, examining the currents to avoid interfering with natural flow patterns and stopping construction during the important coral-spawning season. Nonetheless, there is an ongoing debate around this type of construction and the amount of damage it might inflict upon the environment. I am not an environmental expert of course, but if sustainability is something you care about (and you should), you might not feel at peace here.

• Regardless of the fact whether the construction of a man-made island resort on a living coral reef is a responsible thing to do in times of environmental protection, the “natural look” of the island is also vastly different from that of the Maldives’ stunningly beautiful natural islands. The vegetation at the island’s center is not as lush compared to the soaring jungle of coconut palms you’ll find at the natural islands (although I assume the vegetation will mature over time). The resort’s man-made beaches (with a rough type of sand) can’t compete with the magic and spectacular beauty of the soft white sand beaches on natural islands. If it’s your first visit to the Maldives, you will still be blown away by the tropical scenery, but if you are a repeat visitor the Maldives (like me), the setting – and especially the look and feel of the artificial beaches and vegetation – might disappoint you.

• The remarkable design of the resort might not appeal to everyone, especially when it comes to the colorful pool area, which features a cacophony of red, black, green, pink, yellow and blue tiles. Some might find the design fashionable, trendy and bold, while others might find the design hideous, kitsch and ugly. In all honesty, I wasn’t a fan of the design since I prefer a minimalist modernism or an eco-chic design, which are much more in line with the Maldives’ vibe of tranquillity or serenity. I’m not sure what the thinking behind the colorful design was. I also didn’t like the cheap-looking outfits of the resort staff (pink T-shirts with black & white striped shorts) but that’s a matter of taste of course.

• The villas at SO/ Maldives feature an open-plan bathroom layout. So, if you are not traveling with your loved one, mind that there is no separation between the bathroom and the room. The bath tube is located inside the room and the toilet & shower  cabins features glass doors (so there’s zero privacy).

• SO/ Maldives is located on the northern tip of the South Male Atoll, close to the international airport. This proximity means that guests can quickly transfer from their international flight to the hotel within an hour, unlike many other resorts in this small Indian Ocean island nation, which may require lengthy air or boat transfers to the more remote resorts. However, the downside to its location is that the rather unattractive skyline of the capital city is visible on the horizon, albeit only from the northern part of the resort (most facilities and villas face the south, away from the city). There’s also a bit more boat & plane traffic near the resort (although nothing too bad) which might affect a true castaway feeling.

• While SO/ Maldives tick all the boxes for a 5-star resort, it’s not in the same league as the archipelago’s uber-luxurious resorts, such as One&Only Reethi Rah, Cheval Blanc Randheli, Veela Private Island, Soneva Jani of Soneva Fushi. The design is ok but lacks a wow-factor (and feels more trendy than chic); the service is good but not impeccable; the food is great but not sophisticated; and the small-scale spa is nice but not exceptional. That said, the resort also does not pretend to rank among the best in the Maldives and its room rates are half of what the archipelago’s high-end resorts charge (and thus more affordable).

MY VERDICT

• Location: 7/10
• Design: 7/10
• Pool: 7/10
• Rooms: 8/10
• Food: 7/10
• Breakfast: 8/10
• Spa: 8/10
• Service: 8/10
• Wow factor: 7/10
• Value for money: 7/10
• Overall experience: good 7.4/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

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

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best weather in the Maldives is between January and April, which also means high season (and skyrocketing hotel rates). The monsoon runs from May to October, peaking in June. It is worth paying higher prices and sticking to the dry season as there is nothing to do on a rainy day except drink, eat, work out, or scuba dive. Especially November and December, which are often labelled as dry season months, have been very unsettled in recent years.

HOW TO GET THERE

SO/ Maldives is easily reached by a 15 min speedboat ride from Male International Airport (MLE). Check the Wikipedia page of Male International Airport for an updated list of airlines that offer flights to Male International Airport.

PHOTOS

Here’s a selection of my photos of SO/ Maldives. To view more hotel photos (including breakfast, lunch and dinner), click here.

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

The post Review: SO/ Maldives Resort appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review.

I recently enjoyed a phenomenal holiday in the Maldives, where I stayed at the archipelago’s four most exclusive ultra-luxury resorts. You can read my reviews here:

• Review: Beond Airlines A319 Business Class from Zürich to the Maldives
• Review: One&Only Reethi Rah Maldives
• Review: Cheval Blanc Randheli Maldives
• Review: Soneva Fushi
• Review: Soneva Jani (today)
• Review: Etihad Airways B787 Business Class from Male to Abu Dhabi
• Review: Etihad Airways A380 First Class from Abu Dhabi to London

Today: Review of Soneva Jani Maldives (phenomenal resort!)

• Location: Google Maps
• Hotel website: Soneva Jani Maldives
• Tip: contact me to get complimentary VIP perks at Soneva Jani

Located on an uninhabited five-island cluster in the Noonu Atoll, Soneva Jani is the Maldives’ most exclusive and famous resort. The property features 51 overwater pool villas, spread along two jetties that curve into a 5.6 km (3,4 mi) magnificent lagoon of crystal clear waters. Known as the North Jetty and the South Jetty, both jetties are connected to the Maldives’ largest resort island, a tropical paradise fringed by pristine beaches and blanketed with lush tropical greenery. Highlights at Soneva Jani include the villas’ retractable roofs, private water slides, a wide range of sublime restaurants, personalized experiences & excursions, and a spectacular new spa facility, Soneva Soul. Guests of both jetties can benefit from an all-inclusive way to experience the best of the resort with Soneva Unlimited.  

Soneva Jani features in my top 10 lists of the best luxury resorts in the Maldives, the most fabulous overwater villas in the Maldives, the most astonishing beach retreats in Asia, and my favorite hotels in the world.

Have you ever stayed at Soneva Jani? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review:

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

REVIEW SONEVA JANI: PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• Upon arrival at Malé International Airport and after passing immigration, guests are met by the Soneva airport staff members, who take care of the luggage and provide assistance with the check-in at the Manta Air counters so secure the seaplane boarding passes. Once checked in for the seaplane transfer, guests are transferred to the seaplane terminal, which is located on the other side of the airport’s perimeter (a 5 min drive away). Here, guests can wait for the connecting seaplane transfer to the resort at the Soneva lounge: they are offered a refreshing drink and some snacks, while a Soneva host takes care of the check-in prices.

• The (sea)plane transfers arrangements are very well-organized as Soneva operates its own fleet of exclusive seaplanes, which means that Soneva is quite flexible with regards to the operating schedule and luggage limits. This is good news for guests, as waiting time at the airport is reduced and they can take more luggage on board. These DHC-6 Twin Otters are custom-painted in a magnificent grey and purple color livery, matching Soneva’s unique’s branding. On the inside, these seaplanes, which normally seat 15 to 19 passengers, only feature 10 VIP seats and a cabin fitted in Soneva’s signature design style. You can read my review of the Soneva seaplane here.

• Getting to the resort is half the fun since the 40 minute seaplane transfer to Soneva Jani is a breathtaking sightseeing trip in itself. The seaplane flies quite low over the Indian Ocean, offering an amazing view of tiny, sugar-white island rings sparkling atop turquoise colored lagoons and the brilliant sapphire blue ocean. Flying on board a seaplane in the Maldives and admiring the picture-perfect archipelago from a bird’s eye perspective is one of the ultimate experiences that the destination has to offer.

• After a 40 minute flight, the seaplane lands at Soneva Jani International Airport, which must be one of the most amazing airports in the world: a small wooden, floating deck just off the island’s shores. From there, it’s a five minute speedboat ride to the arrival jetty of the magnificent resort. During the speedboat trip to the resort, guests may remove their shoes and slip them into a linen bag until their departure. This reflects Soneva Jani’s ‘no news, no shoes’ policy, which encourages a casual, barefoot atmosphere among all the guests.

• From the moment guests touch down (barefoot) on Soneva Jani’s shores, a personal butler is on hand to assist them throughout their stay. These butlers are obviously handpicked for their extreme likeability and their level of discrete, intuitive service – you only have to think it, and your wish has materialized! IMHO, Soneva offers the best service in the hospitality service worldwide.

• One of the many highlights of the resort is its location within a 5.6 km (3,5 mi) lagoon of crystal clear waters with uninterrupted 360° views of the Indian Ocean, the largest of its kind in the Maldives. The lagoon is so huge that more than 7,000 Olympic swimming pools can fit inside it. It’s impossible to find words to describe the intensely mesmerizing blue of the lagoon’s waters. The fifty shades of blue strike the entire Maldivian archipelago and are present in the shallows of every atoll’s islands, but nowhere are they as blue and clear as at Soneva Jani. In fact, these are the most vibrant shades of blue and most stunning lagoon that I have ever seen in all my years of traveling across the globe.

• A unique feature of Soneva Jani – which sets it apart from all other resorts across the Maldives – is that its lagoon has access to five islets. The main island Medhufaru – the largest resort island in the Maldives – is fringed by pristine beaches and blanketed with lush tropical greenery. It was home to a farm for 10 years before Soneva Jani was conceptualized, and the extensive gardens on the isle still supply the fruits, vegetables, herbs and mushrooms to the resort’s kitchens, as well as to Soneva Jani’s sister resort, Soneva Fushi. Here, guests can wander through the Labyrinth, a meditative maze created out of ficus hedge that follows an ancient circular pattern. Medhufaru features a small beach club on its northern tip (North Beach) and a much larger beach club on its southern tip (South Beach). The other four islands in the lagoon remain entirely undeveloped, so there is always somewhere a place to play castaway.

• Within this massive lagoon are 51 overwater villas and a few beach villas, making Soneva Jani one of the lowest density resorts in the world. The scale of the villas is extraordinary, with both one bedroom (catering to couples and families with young children) and multi-bedroom villas (catering to larger travel parties) available. The overwater villas are located along two jetties that are connected to Medhufaru island and curve over the blue water like a snake. At more than 410 square meters (4413 square feet), the one bedroom villas are the largest entry-level villas in the Indian Ocean. Every water villa has a private pool (which is large enough to swim laps) and opens to its own stretch of lagoon, with most villas featuring curved slides going directly from the top deck into the lagoon below. The villas at the North Jetty are called Retreats while the villas at the South Jetty are designated as Reserves.

• During my holiday, I stayed at a two bedroom villa with slide on the South Jetty. Spread across two floors, the villa came with its own 13 m (43 feet) private pool, surrounded by exansive decking for sunbathing and taking in ocean vistas. In addition to a spacious master bedroom, there was a small glass-encased kitchenette, study room, walk-in wardrobe, and living area with sunken seats perfect for lounging. A sleeping area for children was conveniently located within the main bedroom (so parents can be assured their children are never too far from them in an overwater environment). The open-air bathroom – located adjacent to the master bedroom – featured a secluded, wooden surround with sufficient space to swim in and out of. Three different glass-bottomed areas in the villa guaranteed that the underwater world was never too far away. Upstairs, there was a second bedroom, seating lounge, and a dining sala with roof deck.

• All villas feature a retractable roof in the master bedroom, which slides back at the touch of a button so guests can lie in bed and stargaze. After an evening in the on-property overwater observatory (cf below), you can try to identify Orion, the Southern Cross, the Bear and more stellar constellations from your bed as you drift to sleep, with just the relaxing sound of the lapping waters outdoors. And there is no reason to worry about rain, since sensors detect an on-coming shower and automatically close the roof.

• Like all other Soneva properties, the spacious villas feature beautifully designed interiors by Eva Shivdasani, one of Soneva’s co-founders and wife of Soneva CEO Sonu Shivdasani. The eco-chic design complements the stunning Maldivian surroundings and represents barefoot luxury at its best. The soft-colored interiors are flooded with light, with a few deep purple stains adding a nice contrast. With sandblasted pine decking and Shingle Red River Gum tiles adorning the outside of the fairytale-esque villas, the insides are made from subtly weathered woods and natural materials in a color palette of white, pastel greens and mauves. The overall effect is ethereal, light and airy to encourage the ultimate state of relaxation.

• Soneva Jani features the largest overwater structure in the Maldives, the so-called ‘Gathering’, which appears like something out of a fairytale. At three storeys tall and located halfway the North Jetty, the Gathering is the heart of the resort. It houses the various dining outlets (more on that below), as well as a gym, library, boutique shop, chocolate & ice cream parlor, wine cellar and kids club. The Gathering features a soaring open-sided atrium, with a maze of stairs and walkways connecting all the floors, facilities, inside and outside. There are 104,000 pieces of Red River Gum Shingles from Laos on the Gathering’s roof. Also, there’s a large slide that delivers guests directly from the Gathering’s second floor to the ocean. A Soleni Dive Centre and Marine Biology Champa as well as a bookshop are located next to The Gathering.

• Soneva Jani features the Maldives’ first overwater silent cinema – Cinema Paradiso – at the southern tip of the main island Medhufaru. Here, guests can relax on comfortable loungers under the stars and snack on fresh popcorn. Bluetooth headphones are provided, leaving the surrounding nesting turtles and wildlife at peace. Several times a week, there is a movie selection for both children and adults, with a focus on classic and inspirational movies. Cinema Paradiso also features a Japanese restaurant – called Director’s Cut – where guests can dine on the delicate flavors of Japan’s famous cuisine while taking in a classic film.

• Soneva Jani’s guests can gaze into the night sky at the twinkling jewel-like stars at the first overwater observatory in the Maldives. This popular experience has awed and amazed guests of all ages at Soneva Jani’s sister resorts, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Kiri, and the resort designers have made the observatory at Soneva Jani even better. A sophisticated telescope rises up through the floor of the observatory deck, offering enchanted views of the starry sky. The deck is surrounded by four dining tables, at which you can dine if you wish (more on that below).

• Soneva Jani is one of the largest resort’s in the Maldives, and getting around does require some time. Buggy service is available 24/7 and bicycles (including e-bikes) are also provided to help navigate the fun, snaking jetties that connect the villas with the main island, home to Cinema Paradiso, tennis courts, padel courts, deserted beaches, the Gardens and Labyrinth, and various walking and cycle paths. In addition, a speed boat shuttles guests between the four untouched islands in the lagoon as well as between the Chapter One and Chapter Two jetties.

• Rooms make money, while food and beverage make reputations, and Soneva Jani does not fail to impress here as the menus are as extravagant as the resort itself. Everything is of the highest quality and presented with total care and attention, from the freshest tuna and thin pizzas, to delicate Indian curries, slow roasted lamb, and delicious salads. Between the two sections of the island (Chapter One & Chapter Two), there are twelve dining outlets in total, offering various destinations cuisines and private dining experiences, where the resort’s chefs trick your taste buds and mind with elaborate disguises.
  • The main restaurant, called Down To Earth, is located within the Gathering on the North Jetty, and offers a sumptuous breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner. Down To Earth has a myriad of nooks, boardwalks, decks and other spaces to choose from, so every meal can be set in a totally fresh environment if you wish.
  • Overseas is the brainchild of celebrated Swedish chef Mathias Dahlgren. Inspired by its spectacular location next to The Gathering, this casual, overwater restaurant serves lunch and dinner menus of plant-based and pescatarian dishes, with produce freshly picked from Soneva Jani’s organic gardens, or sustainably caught in the waters around the resort.  
  • So Wild by Diana Von Cranach is a fully plant-based restaurant in the midst of Soneva Jani’s organic garden. Diana’s 50 years of experience in plant-focused dining come to life in a menu that draws inspiration from Ayurveda and highlights ingredients grown at the resort. 
  • So Engaging is Soneva Jani’s chef’s table, which offers a mystery menu for five very special guests. Here, guests get a front row seat to the action, and converse with the chef as he prepares exciting, delicious dishes.
  • So Primitive’s centerpiece is a fire pit where different cooking techniques are honored. Think roasting, grilling, searing and cooking in a kettle, clay pots (on coals), salt-crusted baking and cooking over coals. Guests choose from a menu that features fresh seafood, meats, and plant-based dishes.
  • Chef Nikki heads up his Japanese kitchen at Director’s Cut Restaurant, serving modern style sashimi, black cod and other Japanese favorites with a contemporary twist. Guests enjoy a set meal while taking in a classic film at Cinema Paradiso.
  • Flames, smoke and unspoilt views of the Noonu Atoll set the stage for the So Bespoke open-air teppanyaki table. Situated next to Cinema Paradiso, this intimate dining destination seats just ten guests per sitting.
  • With an upstairs deck to watch sunsets from, the Crab Shack serves Sri Lankan Mud Crab curry and Alaskan crabs. A selection of rosés are the highlight of the drinks menu. The Crab Shack was voted as the ‘world’s most romantic restaurant’ on CNN.
  • Seating up to 20 guests, So Imaginative is a private room perfect for celebrations. Soneva Jani’s sommeliers can create inspired wine tastings and wine dinners here, selecting the perfect pairings from the wine tower.
  • So Starstruck comprises four dining tables around the first overwater observatory in the Maldives. Here, guests dine on an expertly crafted menu while a resident Astronomer is on-hand to help navigate the skies.
  • Located within the resort’s organic gardens, So Local is a meeting place for both Soneva hosts and guests alike to share inspiring stories from a wide variety of cultures. Inspired by Soneva’s diverse hosts’ home countries, the versatile, rotating menu showcases one cuisine from around the world each month.
  • So Chill on South Beach is a casual eatery offering a scrumptious breakfast, including a range of local, international and nutritious delecacies. Gourmet charcuterie, cheese and preserves can also be enjoyed here throughout the day and evening.

• When guests stay at Soneva Jani, they can upgrade their booking to Soneva Unlimited, an indulgent offering that invites guests to enjoy every facet of Soneva Jani to their heart’s desire, all included in the price of the villa. Soneva Unlimited includes unlimited dining at all bars, restaurants and in-villa dining; unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at all bars and restaurants; unlimited access to visiting Michelin-starred chef dinners and experiences; wines from the Soneva Unlimited list; and unlimited spa treatments. Also included under Soneva Unlimited is a dedicated Barefoot Butler, daily laundry service, and daily replenishment of the in-villa minibar. The full Soneva Unlimited menu can be viewed here. 

• The Den at Soneva Jani is the Maldives’ largest children’s club. Awakening children’s sense of adventure, two majestic waterfalls cascade into The Den’s large swimming pool. Intrepid adventurers will also enjoy crossing the pool’s waters via a zipline that makes a splash as it traverses through the waterfall. Just beyond the pool lies a pirate ship and skateboard ramp, keeping even the most active of little explorers entertained for hours on end. Venturing inside, a bowling alley, Lego and craft area, dressing-up room, library and cinema provide space for books, films, fantasies and more. The Hangout is a dedicated roof deck for teens featuring an array of attention-grabbing activities, including a music room, telescope deck, pool and foosball tables, pinball machines, table tennis table set above a reflecting pond, as well as a dry slide for speedy escapes.

• Soneva has gained a worldwide reputation for its wine collection and Sommeliers, and at Soneva Jani, the wine is housed in a six-meter (20 feet) high glass tower and the list contains around 50% organic and biodynamic wine.

• The resort has two chocolate & ice cream parlors (one located within the Gathering and one located on South Beach), which are open from noon till late night and complimentary to all guest. There are over 20 constantly changing flavors of homemade ice creams and sorbets to choose from at the ice cream room. Guests can also indulge in every child’s dream of never-ending chocolate by sampling cardamom chocolate truffles, passionfruit pralines, and a continually changing profusion of confections. Also, bread, cheese, and cold cuts are available during the day (on a complimentary basis).

• Soneva Jani features not one but two wellness centers:
  • The resort’s newest wellness center is called Soneva Soul (opened in 2022). Located on Medhufaru island, not far from Soneva Jani’s picturesque South Beach, Soneva Soul sets a new standard in holistic wellness. The facility has been designed to harmonize with its breath-taking setting and features two indoor therapy rooms and three open-air treatment pavilions with unmatched views of the spectacular natural surrounds. The wellness center includes a dedicated Ayurvedic Clinic as well as an indoor consultation room for visiting specialists. Alongside a cross-functional fitness area, an open-air yoga pavilion includes facilities for aerial yoga. The new complex also features a retail area, featuring sustainable apparel, wellness products and accessories. 
  • Soneva Soul complements Soneva Jani’s original overwater spa, which is located within The Gathering. The latter is a small intimate facility, which houses a couple of treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, and sauna & steam rooms.

• In constructing the resort, Soneva Jani’s management kept its environmental impact as low as possible. The pools use seawater with UV filtration and the villas have been built over the sandy floors of the lagoon, with no damage to any part of the reef.  Furthermore, solar PV is e a significant source of power generation at the resort, all waste-water is collected and treated on-site, and water is also produced on-site, including drinking water. Soneva’s Eco Centro Waste-to-Wealth centre ensures that waste is recycled, while the extensive vegetable garden gives local produce for the restaurants based on organic principles.

• The resort is managed by Soneva, my absolute favorite hotel brand in the world. The acronym SLOW LIFE (Sustainable-Local-Organic-Wellness Learning-Inspiring-Fun-Experiences) explains the Soneva philosophy: it aims to create unforgettable, innovating, and enlightening experiences that illuminate their guest’s lives whilst treading lightly on the earth. The ethos and values it is run by are what sets Soneva on different footing as compared to other high-end hotel brands. In addition, there’s also a lot of love and romance in the story of Soneva, which was founded in 1995 by Sonu Shivdasani, an Indian-British hotelier, and his wife Eva Malmstrom, a Swedish fashion model. I have previously reviewed the fabulous Soneva property in Thailand, Soneva Kiri, and its sister property in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi.

• A stay at Soneva Jani can also be combined with a stay at Soneva’s newest ultra-exclusive outpost in the Maldives, Soneva Secret. The first resort in the Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Soneva Secret is a 30 min seaplane flight from Soneva Jani and features 14 overwater and island villas, including the Maldives’ only floating villa. Designed to offer the ultimate in Soneva hospitality and exemplary service standards, each villa features a dedicated team of three, which includes a Barefoot Guardian, Barefoot Assistant and dedicated chef, to ensure every stay is wholly personalised. Thirty years in the making, the Soneva Secret resort concept builds upon Soneva’s experience at the forefront of exceptional hospitality, and sets a new, unmatched standard in intuitive, personalized service, exquisite private villas and unspoiled settings, surrounded by nature.

REVIEW SONEVA JANI: CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

Never in my life have I stayed at a resort that is quite as beautiful and mesmerizing as Soneva Jani. It is without any doubt the visually most striking resort in the Maldives, re-writing the rules of Indian Ocean perfection. Phenomenally beautiful and thrillingly visionary, Soneva Jani raises the bar for luxury travel, not only in the Maldives, but around the globe. Soneva Jani will sweep you off your feet and leave you speechless, but there are a few things worthwhile noting to ensure you have the perfect stay:

• While incredibly beautiful, the lagoon is not teeming with fish, although I noted that there is more wildlife present now than there was during my last visit two years ago (harmless sharks and stingrays daily frequented the waters around the villas). Due to the lack of fish within the lagoon, Soneva Jani offers snorkeling trips by boat to its house reef at the outer edge of the lagoon. Corals of all species are present here, as well as a great deal of fish and huge old coral colonies creating a nice shallow 3D reefscape. You may also be lucky enough to encounter beautiful sea turtles and manta rays, which are native to this area of the Maldives. There are also many dive sites with rich marine life around the resort, sure to tempt all marine enthusiasts.

• There are two seaplane choices available: either the Soneva seaplane or the Manta Air seaplane. The Soneva seaplane is private and more comfortable (seating 8 passengers in a VIP layout), while the Manta Air seaplane carries more passengers (15 in total) and may stop en-route at other destinations before arriving at Soneva Jani. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to know upfront whether you will be transferred in a Soneva seaplane or in a Manta Air seaplane (the schedule depends on Manta Air, which also maintains the Soneva seaplanes). Guests who are flown to Soneva Jani on the Manta Air seaplane (instead of the Soneva plane) will receive a resort credit as compensation, valued at $150 USD per person per voyage during peak season, and $100 USD per person per voyage during shoulder season. The resort credit can be redeemed against food and beverages, experiences and Soneva Soul treatments, excluding third parties and retail outlets.

• The villas on the South Jetty (Residences) have an improved design & layout compared to the villas on the North Jetty (Retreats). For example, the residences on the South Jetty have been raised high enough above the ocean so that the waves do not break against the underside; their pools have been moved to the front of the pool deck; their terraces offer more shade during the heat of the day; and they also have more indoor spaces which are airconditioned (e.g. the lounge area in the villas at the Soutgh Jetty is air-conditioned while that’s not the case at the North Jetty villas).

• The jetty planks at the South Jetty are laid lengthwise rather than width-wise to reduce the noise of buggies and bicycles riding along them (which is sometimes an issue on the North Jetty).

• Halfway the North Jetty is an enormous overwater structure, called The Gathering, which houses various dining outlets, as well as a gym, library, boutique shop, chocolate & ice cream parlor, and wine cellar (cf supra). The South Jetty does not feature any communal buildings, except for a small boutique. On the other hand, guests staying at the South Jetty are closer to some of the resort’s key facilities, such as Soneva Soul (the new spa), the outdoor cinema, and facilities at South Beach. However, all guests of both jetties are given (electric) bikes for the duration of their stay, so it’s easy to explore everything that the resort has on offer.

• Guests staying at the South Jetty will mainly have their breakfast on the beach (at South Beach), while guests staying at the North Jetty will mainly have their breakfast inside the Gathering (which offers more choices). However, guests of both jetties can have their breakfast wherever they want to.

• The lagoon surrounding the North Jetty is deeper and brighter blue compared to the water at the South Jetty. During my visit, I also had the impression that there was more maritime wildlife present around the Chapter One villas.

• With a price tag to match the experience, Soneva Jani is one of the world’s most expensive resorts though it’s difficult to argue that it doesn’t offer value for money. It’s the ultimate in exclusive holidays and one of the most divine and fabulous hotels in the world.

• Be warned: all your other trips, whether to the Maldives or beyond, will pale in comparison to the memory of a Soneva Maldives vacation. One wonders what comes next after a Soneva holiday?

REVIEW SONEVA JANI: MY VERDICT

• Location: 10/10
• Design: 10/10
• Pool: not applicable
• Resort grounds (beach): 10/10
• Rooms (villas): 10/10
• Food: 10/10
• Breakfast: 10/10
• Spa: 10/10
• Service: 10/10
• Value for money: 10/10
• Overall experience: exceptional: 10/10

REVIEW SONEVA JANI: TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Save money: contact me to receive complimentary VIP perks at Soneva Jani before any booking is made. These perks include:
  • A resort credit valued at 10% of the net room revenue (when booking a Best Available Rate) or 5% of the total package revenue when booking one of the Soneva special packages. For example, if you book 7 nights at Soneva Jani at a best available rate of $2500 USD per night, you will get a resort credit of 7 x $250 USD = $1750 USD, which you can use on food, spa, and activities.
  • Two personalized Soneva experiences per stay (complimentary) from the Soneva experience brochure (excluding Soneva In Aqua). You have the opportunity to select premium activities such as a private Cinema Paradiso experience with dinner; father & son picnic and mother & daughter spa; private dinner at the Starlight Table and a session at the observatory; cooking class for children and family; sunrise breakfast; and gourmet dining experience which includes chocolate and wine tasting.
  • Best available rate.
  • An additional benefit to be disclosed by the Soneva reservations team.

• Room tip: About half of the villas at Soneva Jani faces the sunrise, while the other half faces the sunset (so book or request a villa according to your preference).

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

REVIEW SONEVA JANI: BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best weather in the Maldives is between January and April, which also means high season (with low availability and very expensive room rates). The monsoon runs from May to October, peaking in June. It is worth paying higher prices and sticking to the dry season as there is nothing to do on a rainy day except drink, eat, work out or scuba dive. Especially November and December, which are often labelled as dry season months, have been very unsettled in recent years.

REVIEW SONEVA JANI: HOW TO GET THERE

Getting to the Soneva Jani requires a 40-minute seaplane transfer from Male International Airport (MLE). Check the Wikipedia page of Male International Airport for an updated list of airlines that offer flights to Male International Airport.

REVIEW SONEVA JANI: PHOTOS

Below is a selection of my photos of Soneva Jani. To view more hotel photos (including breakfast, lunch and dinner), click here.

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