Luxury Travel #88 Summer 2025 Issue (Preview)

D E S I G N

S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y

2024

THE WORLD'S BEST HOTELS, CRUISE LINES AND EXPERIENCES

9 771443 307001

ISSN 1443-3079

88 85

ISSUE 88 SUMMER 2025

AU$14.95

A U T H E N T I C I T Y

LT88_000_Cover_88_ND.indd 3

SOOTHI NG THE SOUL IN B H U TA N, D IV ING IN TO T H E SEYC HE LLE S , UNPACK I NG THE A L LURE OF T H E H A M P TONS A N D D I S C OV E R I N G HI D D EN ISC HIA, P LUS SK IING IN JA PA N, A R A I N F O R E ST R E T R E AT I N MAL AYSIA A ND A C IT Y GUID E TO B U EN OS A IR ES LU X U RY T R AV E L M AG . C O M . AU

16.10.24 20:08

REMOTE REACHES OF SCANDINAVIA

BY PRIVATE JET Explore the remote Faroe Islands, home to dramatic sea cliffs and striking waterfalls Follow Iceland's Golden Circle Route and admire its geological and geothermal wonders

Tailor your discovery of Greenland's capital, Nuuk, with a selection of curated experiences

12 days, London return, departing 5 August 2025, $49,500 per person, twin share Discover our entire 2025 collection - now available 1800 622 628 www.captainschoice.com.au For full terms and conditions, see www.captainschoice.com.au/conditions.

Explore the furthest corners of Europe's northern lands aboard our business class private jet. Everything has been considered and included on this journey, accompanied by our Tour Manager and Tour Doctor.

LONDON FAROE ISLANDS REYKJAVÍK GREENLAND LOFOTEN ISLANDS

Discover the Remarkable

CALL 1300 589 717, VISIT WWW.ABERCROMBIEKENT.COM.AU OR CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR TO LEARN MORE.

ur Fiji Stay Bes BOOK YOUR SUMMER GETAWAY NOW! Pristine Beaches, Authentic Culture, World-Class Culinary Escapades; Stay at any of our Marriott Bonvoy Resorts and create unparalleled Fijian memories.

From oceanic adventures, diverse cuisines to rejuvenating spa bliss and vibrant moments with the local community.

BOOK DIRECT: https://www.marriott.com/en/destinations/fiji.mi

DISCOVER NOW

Not a member yet? Join now.

Marriott Bonvoy™ Members earn more.

Where Can We Take You?

"

26. Luxury Travel_88.indd 1 LT86_ADs.indd 15

08.10.24 13:38

www.fijimarriott.com Reservations: ! +679 670 7000 " reservations.momibay@marriotthotels.com

www.sheratonfiji.com Reservations: ! +679 675 0777 " reservations.fiji@sheraton.com

www.sheratontokorikiislandfiji.com Reservations: ! +679 666 7707 " reservations.tokoriki@sheraton.com

www.sheratondenarauvillas.com Reservations: ! +679 675 9999 " reservations.denarauvillas@sheraton.com

04/09/2024 5:00 PM LT86_ADs.indd 16

08.10.24 13:38

RIVERS OF THE WORLD CRUISE 16 April to 5 June 2026

Embark on a 50-Night River Cruise Celebrating Uniworld’s 50th Anniversary A world cruise on the most incredible rivers – ALL IN ONE LIFE-CHANGING JOURNEY. From Brussels in Belgium to Amman in Jordan, this is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

• Exquisite five-star cuisine & unlimited premium beverages • Daily excursions & exclusive private experiences • Dedicated Travelling Concierge for your entire journey • All internal flights, hotels, porterage and transfers throughout • Surprises along the way, in Uniworld style FIVE ALL–INCLUSIVE ITINERARIES IN ONE WORLD CRUISE

Special PARIS

AMSTERDAM

MYSTERY CRUISE

NORMANDY

EGYPT

ONE-OF-A-KIND AWARD-WINNING SHIPS | CAREFULLY CURATED EXPERIENCES EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY | HIGHEST SERVICE STANDARDS | OUTSTANDING CUISINE

UNIWORLD.COM/AU | CALL 1300 780 231 | SEE YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR

UW 7312246772 FP Ad Luxury Travel Magazine Issue 88 Dec-Feb 2025.indd 1

11/9/2024 3:29 pm

CONTENTS 10 12 16

Publisher’s Note Editor’s Note Contributors this Issue

18

Where in the World Spotlight on an inspiring location

20

In the Know Latest travel happenings from around the world

30

Luxury Travel Products Beautiful items to take on your travels

36

Dispatches A collection of authentic experiences, outstanding design and sustainable travel initiatives

48

56

78

Online Spotlight What’s trending on luxurytravelmag.com.au 2024 Gold List Awards Our cover story showcases the most progressive experiences, hotels and destinations across land and sea, awarding those who innovate and lead by example

81 explore MEMORABLE JOURNEYS FOR THE CURIOUS MODERN TRAVELLER 82

Kingdom Come A luxury expedition high into the Himalayas in the Kingdom of Bhutan

88

Sweet Escape The appeal of The Hamptons is real, from its charming villages to its glitzy beach clubs

94

Slice of Paradise Discovering a paradise of style and sustainability on Alphonse Island in the Outer Seychelles

102

Cultural Quest An unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle

108

Little Italy Escape the crowds and visit Italy’s under-the-radar island of Ischia

116

Buenos Aires City Guide Where to eat, stay and play in the vibrant Argentinian capital

122

Feast for the Senses A photo essay of Marrakech by Assouline

Pause A peaceful interlude

ABOVE, LEFT Thoalagala Tea Plantation Bungalow in Sri Lanka ABOVE, RIGHT Alphonse Island in the Seychelles © Michael van Rooyen

L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U | 7

LT88_007 009_Contents ND.indd 7

11.10.24 13:59

WHERE SEAMLESS LUXURY MEETS SOUL-ENRICHING FIJIAN HOSPITALITY Nestled along Fiji's pristine sandy shores, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa beckons as a tranquil retreat where seamless luxury meets soul-enriching Fijian hospitality. Only 55 minutes from Nadi International Airport, this secluded haven mirrors a traditional Fijian village across 35 acres of lush beachside gardens.

Whether you’re looking for the ultimate in exclusive luxury, a dream family holiday where all the details are taken care of, an indulgent golf tt break or a romantic spa getaway, there’s a tailored package just for you.

Book now at fiji.intercontinental.com/booking or scan the QR code above Email luxurylifestyle.fiji@ihg.com Phone +679 673 3300 or +679 910 3750

CONTENTS 131 linger BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO DWELL FOR THE DESIGN DILETTANTE 132

Cycladic Haven The Greek resort changing the face of sustainable design on Folegandros

148

The Call of the Wild Malaysia’s The Datai Langkawi resort is just as dreamy as it was when it opened more than three decades ago

158

Suite Life The W Sydney delivers design drama both inside and out

162

Suite Life On the Greek island of Corfu, Domes Miramare, a Luxury Collection Resort delivers a stay fit for royalty

166

Design Bite Striking architecture defines Harudot café on the Thai isle of Phuket

169 savour A MENU OF INDULGENT GOURMET & WELLNESS EXPERIENCES 170

Art de Vivre A forward-thinking French family are not only making exceptional wine around the country, but also exceptional luxe retreats

178

Nature & Nurture Pioneers in Australia’s farm-to-table culinary scene deliver impeccable dining and relaxation at two Daylesford spa-country retreats

186

Body & Soul Wellness means far more than massages at the preeminent Thai health retreat, RAKxa

TOP, LEFT Domes Miamar’s main pool in Corfu

194

Rendez-vous A beautiful place to gather and dine

TOP, RIGHT Gundari resort sits pretty on the Greek Isle of Folegandros

196

Scents & Sensibility A Q&A with legendary perfumer Quentin Bisch

MIDDLE Spa time at Les Sources de Caudalie in Bordeaux, France BOTTOM Daylesford’s dreamy Dairy Flat Farm © INKD Photography

L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U | 9

LT88_007 009_Contents ND.indd 9

11.10.24 13:59

PUBLISHER’S NOTE “The tea fields throughout Sri Lanka have inspired me to drink more of this beneficial brew, and I plan on doing just that this Christmas break as I read this new, engaging issue from cover to cover.”

W Publisher Kavita Lala

elcome to this special summer 2024/2025 issue of Luxury Travel, where we reveal all the winners and honourable mentions in this year’s Gold List Awards. These annual awards are special not only to us here at Indesign Media, but – as the country’s longestrunning travel awards – also to the Australian travel industry at large. Indeed, the number of entries we received this year is testament to that. I’m so proud of the Luxury Travel team, who brought this magnificent awards program together, and am awed at the incredible calibre of brands we saw enter in 2024.

I did not envy our jury this year, who had the difficult job of determining our shortlist from a pool of truly inspiring and progressive hotels, resorts, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies. I am so grateful for their contribution to the Gold List, and to everyone who voted this year – thank you for your support as we continue to recognise and celebrate those that are doing big things in the luxury tourism industry.

As this issue hits the stands, we are also coming up to six months since our beautiful new website debuted. If you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to head to

luxurytravelmag.com.au to see the slick, modern and intuitive site our brilliant team has come up with. If you sign up to our newsletter you will receive a weekly wrap-up of the week’s best content, including news on the latest luxury hotel and resort openings, along with engaging features by the industry’s best travel writers and snackable roundups and destination guides – now all the more enjoyable to read for this redesign.

On social media, you can connect with us on Instagram (@luxurytravelau), Facebook (@luxurytravelmagazine), LinkedIn (/luxury-travel-magazine) and Pinterest (@luxurytravelau) to keep up to date with our gorgeous content, too.

As you’ll see from my feature on page 102, I’ve just returned from a trip around Sri Lanka, which was absolutely fantastic.

The tea fields throughout the country have inspired me to drink more of this beneficial brew, and I plan on doing just that this Christmas break as I read this new, engaging issue from cover to cover.

Wishing you a safe and happy festive season, and a fabulous start to 2025. I hope it is filled with joy, laughter and luxurious journeys that move you.

KAVITA LALA PUBLISHER

1 0 | L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U

LT88_010_Publishers note ND.indd 10

11.10.24 13:54

A PRIVAT PRI VAT E I S L A N D LIKE N O OT H ER Abundant in space, our exclusive Grand Residences and Beachfront Villas are the cornerstone of privacy and a sanctuary for luxury your way. Stowaway to our crystalline shoreline, for here, the pristine natural environment and the authentic Kokomo way of life plays host to a rarefied paradise.

EDITOR’S NOTE “My New Year’s resolution? To have more fun.

I hope this issue inspires you to do the same.”

I Editor Madelin Tomelty in Provence

t’s always a risk to go back to a destination or hotel that really blew you away on the first visit.

What if the experience doesn’t match the perfect memories – the rosy images you have in your head – the second time around? I took such a punt this year when I checked back in to a resort I originally visited in 2015: The Datai Langkawi in Malaysia. I knew that not only were my standards likely to be higher after another nine years of global travel, but also that luxury resorts around the world had come a long way in the design and sustainability stakes during the same period – had The Datai kept up?

What a relief it was to find that this treasured resort was almost exactly the same as I remembered it to be. I rediscovered why it is still winning awards left and right, and inspiring both guests and the industry at large after 31 years of operation: The qualities that make it so memorable – architectural beauty, idyllic location, environmental focus – are unique, but more importantly, they are timeless.

The Datai makes a very worthy recipient of the Sustainable Luxury Resort award for the second year running in this very special Gold List Awards issue of Luxury Travel.

Another well-deserved win in the new category of Luxury Hotel Restaurant or Bar is Lake House in Victoria’s Daylesford spa country. This retreat, too, posed me a conundrum: Will it live up to the hype I’ve been hearing all these years? I quickly discovered

the answer – a resounding ‘yes’ – when visiting for my feature Nature & Nurture (page 178). The Gold List jury and you, our readers, concur.

These are just two of the outstanding hospitality and travel offerings that have taken home trophies in this year’s Gold List Awards, all the winners of which can be found in the pages of this extra-large issue. From the world’s best cruise lines to the luxury family experiences that take the cake, we were blown away with the standard of entries in the program’s 26 categories this year.

Also to discover and devour in this issue are beautiful stories on far-flung destinations such as the bougie Hamptons, soul-stirring Bhutan, the paradisiacal Seychelles and the under-the-radar Italian island of Ischia. Design lovers will want to read about Gundari resort in the Greek Islands and Niseko’s Ritz-Carlton Reserve property, not to mention, the larger-than-life W Sydney, which opened its doors in 2023.

There’s nothing like seeing another issue of Luxury Travel come together to make me want to put on my ‘Out of Office’ and head off on holiday – and I plan on doing just that as whirlwind 2024 comes to a close.

My New Year’s resolution? To have more fun. I hope this issue inspires you to do the same.

MADELIN TOMELTY EDITOR

1 2 | L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U

LT88_012_Editors note_ND.indd 12

16.10.24 20:04

The FBI Travel Advantage C

M

Y

CM

FBI Travel is the only Australian travel agency recognised and endorsed by Forbes Travel Guide, the only independent global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and ocean cruises.

MY

CY

CMY

K

With our bespoke service, extensive experience and The FBI Travel Advantage, we’ll create the perfect, stress-free holiday for you: • Extraordinary and exclusive experiences through our global partnerships • 24/7 help desk* • Comprehensive travel insurance* • FBI Travel App • Lost luggage concierge • Compensation assistance due to flight disruptions*

ENDORSED BY

03 8573 0900

| enquiries@fbitravel.com.au |

fbitravel.com.au

*Fees apply. Please contact us for full terms and conditions

Luxury Travel Team

Indesign Media Executive Team

Publisher Kavita Lala kavita@luxurytravelmag.com.au

CEO Raj Nandan raj@indesign.com.au

Editor Madelin Tomelty madelin@luxurytravelmag.com.au

Group Operations Manager Sheree Bryant sheree@indesign.com.au

Creative Director Sylvia Weimer sylvia@spacelabdesign.com

Online Manager Radu Enache radu@indesign.com.au

Brand + Partnerships Manager Richard Bunting richard@luxurytravelmag.com.au

Head Office 98 Holdsworth Street, Woollahra NSW 2025

General Enquiries media@luxurytravelmag.com.au

luxurytravelmag.com.au

Head of Production Anna Carmody anna@indesign.com.au

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we live and work and recognise their continued custodianship and connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to them and their Elders past, present and emerging.

Production Coordinator Charlotte Yap production@luxurytravelmag.com.au Assistant Editor + Sub Editor Natasha Dragun Contributors Belinda Craigie, Bella Falk, Susan Gough Henly, James Huntly, Ute Junker, Tatyana Leonov, Vanessa Mulquiney, Barry Stone Events Coordinator Roisin Fagan roisin@indesign.com.au Accounts Vivia Felice vivia@indesign.com.au

Acknowledgement of Country

Become a subscriber

subscriptions@luxurytravelmag.com.au www.luxurytravelmag.com.au/subscribe

Yearly subscription Australia $160 International: AUD$252 Connect with us @luxurytravelau #liveluxurytravel

Printed in Singapore. Luxury Travel is printed on paper that meets both PEFC and FSC certifications, sourced from sustainable and responsibly managed forests, and ISO 14001 Environmental standards.

Cover image

Cooling off in a Rainforest Pool Villa at Luxury Travel Gold List Awards winner, The Datai Langkawi. © The Datai Langkawi

Indesign Family

Extended Digital

Extended Print

Extended Events

Strategic Partners

Printed in Singapore. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, transmitted in any form or by any other means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the publishers assume no responsibility for errors or omissions or any consequences of reliance on this publication. The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, the publisher or the publication. Contributions are submitted at the sender’s risk, and Indesign Media Asia Pacific cannot accept any loss or damage. Please retain duplicates of text and images. Luxury Travel Magazine is a wholly owned Australian publication, which is designed and published in Australia. Luxury Travel Magazine is published quarterly and is available through subscription, at major newsagencies and bookshops throughout Australia. This issue of Luxury Travel Magazine may contain offers or surveys which may require you to provide information about yourself. If you provide such information to us we may use the information to provide you with products or services we have. We may also provide this information to parties who provide the products or services on our behalf (such as fulfilment organisations). We do not sell your information to third parties under any circumstances, however, these parties may retain the information we provide for future activities of their own, including direct marketing. We may retain your information and use it to inform you of other promotions and publications from time to time. If you would like to know what information Indesign Media Asia Pacific holds about you please contact Nilesh Nandan (61 2) 9368 0150, (61 2) 9368 0289 (fax), info@indesign.com.au. Luxury Travel Magazine magazine is published under licence by Indesign Media Asia Pacific. ISSN 1836-0556

1 4 | L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U

LT88_014_Credits_ND.indd 14

11.10.24 13:57

Captivating and majestic from every perspective.

To know a city one must discover its secrets, listen to its heartbeat and take part in its performance. With luxury accommodation offering unparalleled views, The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne reflects a city alive and bursting with life. ritzcarltonmelbourne.com

CONTRIBUTORS Some of the talented writers whose inspiring stories feature in this issue

BARRY STONE

VANESSSA MULQUINEY

UTE JUNKER

SUSAN GOUGH HENLY

Barry Stone is the author of 16 non-fiction books on military history, colonial Australia and contemporary architecture for domestic and international publishers including Harper Collins and Allen & Unwin.

Around 20 years ago, he began dabbling in travel writing and now contributes to some of Australia’s premier publications including The Australian Financial Review and Luxury Travel. Barry ventured to vibrant Buenos Aires for this issue (page 116).

Vanessa Mulquiney is a Romebased travel writer and editor.

A former inflight magazine editor, Vanessa has covered travel for more than 20 years, her work appearing in Travel + Luxury, Forbes Travel Guide and Vogue. Although a city girl at heart, Vanessa spends most weekends wandering small towns and beaches on the outskirts of Rome and beyond with her bilingual cocker spaniel. Vanessa explored beautifully under-the-radar Ischia for this issue (page 108).

The ability to pack everything needed for a three-week trip into a piece of carry-on luggage is just one of the skills Ute Junker has developed over a lifetime of travel. What keeps this writer, editor and podcaster on the road is the joy of immersing herself in a new destination, exploring its sights and sounds, its flavours and its people – and also the delight of revisiting a muchloved place. Ute discovered transformative Bhutan for this issue (page 82).

Susan Gough Henly divides her time between an old stone farmhouse in Bordeaux and a treehouse on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Fluent in the language and culture of France, she has a deep knowledge of food and wine, and loves exploring the French countryside with the promise of a fine hotel at the end of the day. Sue visited the bougie Hamptons, the idyllic Greek Islands and France’s enchanting Loire Valley for this issue (pages 88, 132 and 170).

1 6 | L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U

LT88_016_Contributors_ND.indd 16

11.10.24 13:55

SAVE UP TO

$800

PER COUPLE*

WALKING IS ONLY PART OF THE ADVENTURE Escape the usual tourist spots as you explore these spectacular walks of Japan.

We enhance every tour with unforgettable Wow-mazing experiences, from a traditional kimono tea ceremony to handmade paper crafting. Enjoy the luxury of private vehicle transfers, with expert Japanese and english speaking guides, allowing for a relaxed pace and personalized adventure. We’ve handpicked the best accommodations to ensure your comfort throughout this incredible journey. Come join the adventure!

Choose from 10 Pack-Free walking holidays 8 day Kunisaki Spiritual Trail: Explore magnificent landscapes, ancient temples, and hands-on cultural experiences including a tea ceremony.

8 Day Nakasendo Way: Traditional tea ceremony in Kimonos, historic art class, sake tastings, postcard perfect scenery.

8 day Kumano Kodo - Nakahechi 7-Day Shin Etsu & Shiga Route: Pristine onsens, Highlands: Hike through ancient magnificent temples, a meditation beech forests near Nagano, with a monk, and a traditional discovering rich biodiversity and pilgrim boat cruise. historic provincial boundaries.

7 Day Mt Fuiji from all angles and the Izu Peninsula: See spectacular scenery, cruise through the incredible Dogashima caves & much more.

9 Day Michinoku Coastal Trail: Breathtaking coastal views, fresh seafood, superb stays all while immersing yourself in hands-on cultural traditions.

e: walks@lifesanadventure.com.au w: www.lifesanadventure.com.au *see website; saving avaliable on specific tours & departures only

(02) 9975 4553

© iStock

WHERE IN THE WORLD

1 8 | L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U

LT88_018_Where In The World_ND.indd 18

16.10.24 20:03

RAINBOW CONNECTION

© iStock

They say there are ‘Seven Wonders of the World’. Vinicunca mountain in the Andes range of Peru is literally all in one. The soaring peak – near the city of Cusco – tops out at 5,036 metres, and is layered in an astonishing seven geological hues. The colourful stripes are made up of more than 14 different minerals, and they were only revealed in 2013 when ice-melt over the mountain revealed them in all their rainbow glory. Without the snow interacting with the minerals, the striations would never have formed.

Despite the fact that this glorious sight does tell a rather sobering story about climate change, it’s still a geological wonder to behold – all red clays, calcium carbonate-rich sediments, ferromagnesian compounds, and other combinations of elements that interweave to paint an unimaginable colour palette. Get set to unleash your inner artist after a visit.

LT88_018_Where In The World_ND.indd 19

L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U | 1 9

16.10.24 20:03

T R AV E L N E W S

IN THE KNOW

2 0 | L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U

LT88_020_InTheKnow_ND.indd 20

© Stevie Mann

Travel happenings from around the world

16.10.24 20:00

T R AV E L N E W S

NEW OPENINGS RITZ-CARLTON RABAT

M

orocco’s storied Hispano-Moorish history is front and centre at the freshly minted Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam in the country’s UNESCO-listed capital. The dreamy retreat is set over more than 440 hectares of lush Andalusian-style gardens, replete with pools, fountains and eye-catching mosaic features. This is your view from rooms and suites, many of which also overlook the adjoining 45hole golf course. Because 18 is not enough. Design throughout is exquisite: high ceilings, intricate muqarnas (a classic Arab-Andalusian architectural element), intricate Moroccan gebs frescoes and a richly decorated domes that sparkle like gems. Don’t miss a turn in the spa, which boasts hammams and a Roman bath-inspired indoor pool.

© Stevie Mann

ritzcarlton.com

L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U | 2 1

LT88_020_InTheKnow_ND.indd 21

16.10.24 20:00

T R AV E L N E W S

NEW OPENINGS

QT SINGAPORE

W © Giulia Peyrone

NAMIA RIVER RETREAT

himsy is at the forefront of the QT brand of hospitality, whether you’re sleeping in stylish surrounds in Sydney, the Gold Coast or Queenstown. Traditionally Antipodean, the hotel group has branched out to Singapore, launching its first Southeast Asian post within the refurbished Neoclassical Telegraph heritage building on Robinson Road. As expected, there’s a bold use of colour throughout, nodding to Singapore’s candy-coloured Chinese shophouses and fast-paced lifestyle. It’s all interwoven with artistic furniture, delicate lighting and considered detailing incorporating woven rattan, black framing and artwork from the likes of Singapore-based artist Jill Tran, whose prints line the hotel’s walls. Public spaces are complemented by two distinct dining experiences: Cygnet, a Manhattan-style steakhouse with a menu curated by award-winning chef Sean Connolly, and Rooftop at QT, a bar that offers creative cocktails with a view. qthotels.com

S

tyle and sustainability unite at Namia, welcoming guests from mid-December to the colourfully chaotic Vietnamese town of Hoi An. Set in a quiet enclave of the Thu Bon River – a short bike ride from the city’s UNESCO-listed heart – the resort is like a salve for the soul. Each of the 60 villas comes with a private plunge pool and patios overlooking the water or palm forest that surrounds.

Fittingly, every stay slows your pulse with an included spa treatment, including a herbal steam, ideally following a session in the on-site apothecary where you can stretch your limbs practicing duong sinh (meditative movement). Sign up for outings including bike rides through Nipa Forest (your wheels are made from bamboo) or guided visits to the studios of local artisans.

namiariverretreat.com

SOFITEL SYDNEY WENTWORTH

A

ustralia’s first international five-star hotel, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, has undergone a stunning AUD$70 million refurbishment. Created

by Qantas in the 1960s, the hotel has hosted royalty, movie stars, musicians and dignitaries. Now, experience the reimagined elegance across 346 meticulously designed rooms and suites. New public areas include the grand entrance and opulent Sofitel Club Millésime. Indulge in unique dining experiences at a multi-venue precinct crafted by House Made Hospitality. sofitel.com

2 2 | L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U

LT88_020_InTheKnow_ND.indd 22

11.10.24 16:17

T R AV E L N E W S

R O Y A L D AV U I I S L A N D RESORT FIJI

S

mall is beautiful at Royal Davui Island Resort in Fiji, its 16 adults-only villas perched across Beqa Lagoon. Seven months in the making, the resort has a new look – just in time to celebrate its 20th anniversary. The property’s commitment to sustainability and the archipelago it calls home is still evident throughout accommodations, but with upgraded bedrooms, private plunge pools and spacious outdoor lounge areas now at your disposal.

The retreat’s Banyan Bar & Restaurant – built around a centuries-old banyan tree – also received a polish in the recent renovations, now with custom-made furnishings and a 3D art installation (a tribute to the island’s local wildlife) on show. Other treats await: an eight-metre pool, white-sand beaches, powerboats and kayaks, and sand quay picnics.

But the real opulence lies in the 50-plus staff, whose sole aim is to treat guests as royalty.

royaldavuifiji.com

RAFFLES JAIPUR

B

eginning its life in Singapore in 1887, the Raffles hotel brand is synonymous with luxurious, old-world hospitality – the Golden Age of travel in an opulent package. The group’s latest outpost (its second in India) sits pretty in the ‘pink city’ of Jaipur. And boy does it glow. The building is pure white marble, uniting Mughal and Rajputana architectural techniques in design flourishes. Each of the 50 rooms and suites is unique in design and comes with expansive balconies, outdoor soaking tubs or plunge pools, painted corniced ceilings, golden murals and locally sourced artefacts. Exclusive dining, artisan masterclasses and private concerts feature on the hotel’s calendar of events, along with an Artisan Trail designed to connect guests with local creatives and their crafts.

raffles.com

L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U | 2 3

LT88_020_InTheKnow_ND.indd 23

16.10.24 20:00

T R AV E L N E W S

ON OUR RADAR

AMAN MALDIVES

T

he Aman hospitality group can’t put a foot wrong – from Beijing to Bhutan, New York to Japan they craft some of the most luxe, personality-driven hotels and resorts on the planet. Their spotlight today is firmly on the Maldives, that enticing archipelago of dreamy all-inclusive stays in the Indian Ocean.

Set to open in 2025, the private-island Vaavu Atoll oasis of Aman Maldives will feature just 52 guest accommodations, designed by long-time Aman collaborator, Kerry Hill Architects. The Vaavu Atoll is one of the most secluded and exclusive parts of the Maldives, known for its exceptional diving. Here, the new resort will continue Aman’s tradition of timeless and minimalist architecture, taking inspiration from the white coralline beaches, palm-popped interiors and opaline waters for which the archipelago is so renowned.

aman.com

2 4 | L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U

LT88_020_InTheKnow_ND.indd 24

11.10.24 16:18

T R AV E L N E W S

THE LANGHAM CUSTOMS HOUSE, BANGKOK

T

he Thai capital has its fair share of luxurious hotels and urban resorts. The Langham, Customs House, Bangkok, is set to give them a run for their money when it opens in 2026. Set on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River in the city’s historic Bang Rak District, the glam property will transform the 1888-built Customs House – a neoPalladian landmark conceptualised by Joachim Grassi. Designers have their eye on maintaining original features, from the building’s original teak floors to the grand central staircase and impressive four-storey hallway. Adjacent to the historic structure will be a new building housing 78 guest rooms, offering expansive views of the river and city skyline.

langhamhotels.com.au

CAPELLA KENTING

B

eloved purveyors of bespoke and highly personalised luxury, Capella Hotels & Resorts has announced its second property in Taiwan. You will have to wait a few years, though – the hotel is not scheduled to open in Kenting, on the western coastline of the Hengchun Peninsula, until 2028. Antonio Citterio and Patricia Viel, founders of ACPV Architects, are behind the design, and they draw inspiration from the region’s indigenous architecture and the rich natural environment – think low walls made of stacked stones, reflecting the region’s tribal houses. There’s a big emphasis on wellness, as is in Capella’s DNA, alongside experiential dining with a focus on locally harvested ingredients presented through a farm-to-table concept.

capellahotels.com

L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U | 2 5

LT88_020_InTheKnow_ND.indd 25

11.10.24 16:18

T R AV E L N E W S

SPOTLIGHT ON SAUDI ARABIA

F

rom monumental desert tombs and epic canyons to white-sand atolls and evocative old towns, Saudi Arabia has firmly made it as a travel hotspot. Seeing the success of ravishing resort destinations like AlUla, the government has launched a slate of giga-projects such as NEOM in the country’s northwest, including Sindhala Island, a luxury island set to open next year with Four Seasons and Marriott hotels, and a debut from Zannier Hotels. Other projects include Trojena, the Middle East’s first outdoor ski destination in the mountains above 1,800 metres, which will host the 2029 Asian Winter Games. And The Line, the world’s first vertical city stretching across 170 kilometres of the desert, designed by some of the world’s leading architects. Just as ambitious is Red Sea Global, a luxury regenerative tourism destination on the west coast.

Conceived as a zero-waste, zero-carbon destination, with annual visitor numbers capped at one million to limit environmental impacts, Red Sea Global includes a brand-new international airport and a number of luxury retreats including the just opened Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea, which will soon be joined by The St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.

2 6 | L U X U R Y T R AV E L M A G . C O M . A U

LT88_020_InTheKnow_ND.indd 26

11.10.24 16:18