MAGAZINE
BEYOND THE ORDINARY: 10 UNFORGETTABLE LUXURY GETAWAYS
In the ever-evolving world of luxury travel, the most memorable escapes are those that stir the senses, challenge conventions, and elevate the art of the stay. From ethereal ice palaces to architectural feats in the sky, these ten handpicked properties promise more than just luxurious comfort—they offer one-of-akind journeys into the extraordinary.
1. The Silo Hotel – Cape Town, South Africa
Towering above Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, The Silo Hotel is a sculptural icon of art and architecture. Built into the grain elevator portion of a historic 1920s silo, this remarkable space was transformed by the Royal Portfolio into a sanctuary of modern luxury atop the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa—home to the continent’s largest collection of contemporary African art.
Each of the hotel’s 28 rooms, including its show-stopping Penthouse Suite, is uniquely designed by founder Liz Biden. Expect vivid colors, bold textures, and soaring pillowed-glass windows that curve outward, framing panoramic views of Table Mountain, the harbour, and city skyline. The Silo isn’t just a hotel—it’s an artistic statement perched high above the city’s creative pulse.
2. The Warehouse Hotel –Singapore
A former spice trading warehouse turned heritage hotel, The Warehouse Hotel blends Singapore’s industrial past with modern sophistication. Located along the banks of the Singapore River, the hotel is a striking marriage of history and design.
With its exposed brick walls, arched ceilings, and curated mix of contemporary and vintage furnishings, every corner of the hotel tells a story. Guests can sip craft cocktails at the Lobby Bar, dine at Po Restaurant, or simply immerse themselves in the property’s stylish, culturally rich ambiance. It’s a soulful stay for design lovers with a passion for history.
3. The Chedi Andermatt –Andermatt, Switzerland
In the heart of the Swiss Alps, The Chedi Andermatt presents a flawless fusion of Asian elegance and Alpine tradition. Its bold, minimalist architecture—crafted from woods and natural stone—reflects the surrounding peaks, while its warm interiors create an intimate mountain retreat.
This five-star property features a worldclass spa, Michelin-starred dining, and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows opening to panoramic snow-capped vistas. It’s a destination where sleek design meets soulful serenity—perfect for those who seek a modern take on the classic Alpine escape.
4. Arctic TreeHouse Hotel –Rovaniemi, Finland
Set deep within the wintry forests of Finnish Lapland, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel offers guests the rare magic of sleeping beneath the northern lights in cocoon-like luxury suites elevated above the snow. Designed with Scandinavian minimalism in mind, these cube-shaped pods feature timber interiors, fur throws, and north-facing panoramic glass walls.
Whether you’re watching the midnight sun in summer or the aurora borealis dance across the winter sky, every moment here feels touched by wonder. The hotel’s proximity to Santa Claus Village and Arctic wildlife parks makes it ideal for travelers seeking both magic and mindfulness.
Welcome to a hotel that literally melts away. Icehotel, located 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, is rebuilt every winter entirely from ice and snow. Artists from around the world sculpt the hotel’s suites, hallways, and even beds from frozen water harvested from the nearby Torne River.
Guests can sleep in sub-zero serenity in a suite carved like a crystal palace or choose a “warm” accommodation in the adjacent lodge. This ephemeral masterpiece is part art installation, part luxury hotel—offering an experience that exists for just a season, then disappears with spring’s thaw.
5. Icehotel – Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
6. Giraffe Manor – Nairobi, Kenya
Imagine enjoying your morning coffee as a giraffe pokes its head through the window to say hello. At Giraffe Manor, that’s just an average breakfast. Set within 12 acres of private land in Nairobi’s Langata suburb, this elegant 1930s manor is home to a resident herd of endangered Nubian/ Rothschild’s giraffes.
The boutique hotel’s ivy-covered façade, art deco interiors, and colonial charm transport guests to another era—while the unique wildlife encounters turn the stay into something unforgettable. Whether feeding giraffes from your balcony or relaxing in the garden with a long-necked visitor nearby, Giraffe Manor is a rare blend of fairytale and conservation.
7. The Caves – Negril, Jamaica
Perched on the limestone cliffs of Negril’s rugged coast, The Caves is a boutique escape carved into the rock itself. Its collection of hand-crafted cottages and suites—each with sea views and vibrant Jamaican decor—feels like a secret hideaway for the soul.
What truly sets this property apart is its dramatic setting: candlelit dinners served in ocean-facing caves, cliffside plunge pools, and stairs leading down to turquoise waters for swimming or snorkeling. It’s romantic, intimate, and infused with the laid-back rhythm of island life—a sensory escape that whispers adventure and serenity in equal measure.
8. Fogo Island Inn – Newfoundland, Canada
Remote, rugged, and wildly beautiful, Fogo Island Inn is a modern architectural marvel perched on stilts at the edge of the North Atlantic. Located on Fogo Island—off the northeast coast of Newfoundland—this socially conscious inn is more than a hotel; it’s a cultural and ecological project rooted in community sustainability.
Each of the 29 rooms is uniquely designed with floor-to-ceiling windows framing endless ocean views, handcrafted furnishings, and textiles made by local artisans. Guests can enjoy wood-fired saunas, artist residencies, and immersive experiences curated by “Community Hosts.” Fogo Island Inn is a rare place where hospitality meets heritage in spectacular isolation.
9. Amangiri – Canyon Point, Utah, USA
Minimalist, majestic, and masterfully integrated into the desert landscape, Amangiri is a luxurious retreat nestled in the red rock canyons of southern Utah. Designed to blend into the raw, cinematic surroundings, the resort’s architecture mirrors the colors and contours of the desert.
Each suite features clean lines, natural materials, and private terraces that open to sweeping views of mesas and plateaus. The spa—housed in a stone pavilion with views of the surrounding cliffs—offers treatments inspired by Navajo traditions. It’s luxury that humbles, reminding guests of their place in the grandeur of nature.
10. The Manta Resort –Pemba Island, Tanzania
Floating just off the coast of Pemba Island, The Manta Resort is home to one of the world’s most extraordinary hotel suites: an underwater room anchored in the Indian Ocean. Guests sleep below sea level, surrounded by coral reefs and marine life, in a private floating villa that includes a rooftop lounge and overwater landing deck.
This secluded resort offers barefoot luxury and deep connection to nature. Whether stargazing on the top deck or watching tropical fish drift past your window, The Manta Resort delivers a truly surreal—and serene—escape.
These ten extraordinary hotels go beyond luxury—they ignite curiosity, celebrate place, and connect travelers to something far greater than themselves. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights in Finland, dining by candlelight in a sea cave in Jamaica, or sharing breakfast with giraffes in Kenya, each of these getaways promises an experience that lingers long after checkout.
Because the most unforgettable luxury is never ordinary.
SPOTLIGHT
BLISS SANCTUARY FOR WOMEN: A TRANSFORMATIVE ESCAPE IN THE HEART OF BALI
In today’s fast-paced world, finding a space dedicated solely to women’s wellbeing is a rare treasure. Bliss Sanctuary for Women offers just that—a haven where women can retreat, rejuvenate, and rediscover themselves. With three exquisite sanctuaries located in Canggu, Seminyak, and the exclusive Villa Peace in Bali, Bliss provides an unparalleled experience that combines holistic wellness, personal freedom, and heartfelt hospitality.
A Vision Brought to Life
Founded by Australian entrepreneur Zoë Watson, Bliss Sanctuary for Women was born from a personal journey of seeking solace and self-care. Zoë envisioned a place where women could feel safe, supported, and truly seen. Each sanctuary reflects her commitment to creating spaces that prioritize individual needs over rigid schedules, allowing guests to tailor their experiences— be it through yoga, healing sessions, cultural explorations, or simply unwinding in tranquility.
Canggu: A Bohemian Retreat
Nestled amidst the rice paddies of Berawa, the Canggu sanctuary offers a
serene escape just a short stroll from the beach and vibrant local cafes. This location boasts a rooftop yoga shala, expansive tropical gardens with koi ponds, and a sparkling pool designed for
in-pool sunbathing. Guests can indulge in unlimited spa treatments, explore nearby attractions with personal drivers, and savor gourmet meals prepared to their preferences.
Seminyak: Urban Elegance Meets Tranquility
Located in a peaceful cul-desac, the Seminyak sanctuary is a stone’s throw away from Bali’s premier shopping and dining destinations. The villa features poolside lounges and places to escape in this luxe environment for massages, meditation, sun-
baking, reading and ultimate peace and relaxation in a lush tropical garden. Each suite is adorned with luxurious beds, flowing mosquito nets, and private indoor/outdoor bathrooms with signature stone bathtubs.
Villa Peace: Intimate Luxury
For those seeking the utmost in privacy, Villa Peace offers an exclusive retreat experience. Designed by Zoë for her personal rejuvenation, this two-bedroom villa in Seminyak provides a tranquil environment shared with only one other guest. The villa features spacious suites, airconditioned bathrooms with tropical rain showers, and a serene bale overlooking the pool for yoga or massages. It’s an ideal setting for solo travelers, close friends, or couples desiring a peaceful escape.
The Bliss Experience
What sets Bliss Sanctuary apart is its unwavering commitment to personalized care. With a maximum of 5-7 guests at any time, each woman receives individualized attention, including:
Unlimited Spa Treatments: Guests can enjoy massages and spa therapies, tailored to their preferences.
SPOTLIGHT
Unlimited Yoga: Whether a beginner or seasoned practitioner, guests can participate in yoga sessions at the sanctuary.
Unlimited Sightseeing: Personal drivers are available to take guests anywhere they wish, offering insights into local culture and hidden gems.
Unlimited Meals: From breakfast to dinner, meals are prepared to individual tastes, accommodating all dietary requirements.
Dedicated Hostesses: Each guest is supported by a caring hostess who ensures every aspect of their stay is seamless and fulfilling.
A Sanctuary Beyond Compare
Bliss Sanctuary for Women isn’t just a destination; it’s a transformative journey. It’s a place where women can prioritize themselves, find inner peace, and connect with like-minded souls. Whether you’re recovering from burnout, marking a life milestone, or simply seeking a space to breathe, Bliss offers an experience that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit.
In a world that often demands so much from women, Bliss Sanctuary provides a space that gives back—a true sanctuary where every woman can find her bliss.
SPOTLIGHT
TRAVEL DREAMS WORTH CHASING: 14 EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURES THAT REDEFINE THE BUCKET LIST
For the discerning traveler, luxury is no longer defined by opulent suites or white-gloved service—it’s about moments that shift perspective, stir the soul, and etch themselves into memory. In this curated collection of once-in-alifetime journeys, we explore 14 immersive adventures that pair the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders with elevated, exclusive experiences. These are not just bucket-list destinations; they are stories waiting to be lived.
Dive Between Two Continents – Silfra, Iceland
There are few places on Earth where you can swim between tectonic plates— and none as surreal as Silfra in Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park. Suspended in glacial waters that remain a crisp 2°C year-round, travelers glide between the North American and Eurasian plates in visibility so pristine, it feels like floating through glass. The water, filtered through volcanic rock for decades, is the clearest on Earth.
Private diving and snorkeling tours offer a luxury touch, complete with expert guides and heated drysuits. Add on helicopter transfers from Reykjavik and a stay at a boutique eco-lodge for a truly bespoke Arctic adventure. For those who seek the rare and remarkable, Silfra is not just a dive—it’s an immersion into one of Earth’s quietest and most extraordinary wonders.
Nothing prepares you for the heart-pounding moment when you lock eyes with a silverback gorilla. In the misty mountains of Rwanda, guests embark on guided treks through dense jungle terrain in search of these gentle giants. Led by expert trackers and conservationists, the journey is both physically rewarding and emotionally powerful.
Luxury lodges like Bisate Lodge and Singita Kwitonda offer five-star comfort with panoramic views of the volcanic peaks, locally inspired cuisine, and community-based sustainability programs. Guests can also take part in conservation initiatives, meeting with researchers and contributing directly to the preservation of this fragile species. It’s raw, intimate, and deeply moving—a profound reminder of our shared planet and the beauty of coexistence.
Trek with Gorillas – Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Under the blanket of a million stars, luxury desert camps offer a serenity found nowhere else. Whether you choose Jordan’s otherworldly Wadi Rum or the rolling dunes of Morocco’s Sahara, these experiences go far beyond glamping. Imagine richly adorned tents with plush bedding, private bonfires, gourmet tajines under lantern light, and sunrise camel treks across golden sands.
In Jordan, explore ancient Nabatean carvings and filmfamous landscapes, while in Morocco, enjoy Berber storytelling, traditional music, and henna artistry. Stargazing takes on a new meaning in these remote landscapes, where silence reigns and the celestial show above is unrivaled. Combining cultural immersion with indulgent flair, desert nights become unforgettable tales of tranquility and timeless beauty.
These experiences may not be as extreme, but they’re no less magical—and perfect for travelers looking to expand their bucket list with style.
Sail the Norwegian Fjords
Board a private yacht or luxury cruise and glide past towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and idyllic Nordic villages. The beauty is raw and regal—made for those who seek seclusion without compromise.
Ride the Trans-Siberian Railway
Embark on an epic journey across Eurasia in opulent cabins, savoring Russian cuisine and panoramic views of ever-changing wilderness. It’s slow travel redefined.
Sleep Beneath the Stars – Wadi Rum, Jordan or Moroccan Sahara
As the sun crests the horizon, the Serengeti awakens. Wildebeest thunder across the plains, elephants amble through golden grass, and from above, you witness nature’s symphony in near-total silence. A sunrise hot air balloon ride is the pinnacle of safari romance—peaceful, poetic, and endlessly panoramic.
Upon landing, guests are treated to champagne breakfasts served in the heart of the bush, followed by guided game drives and evenings around the fire. With top-tier balloon operators ensuring safety and comfort, and luxury lodges offering spa treatments and gourmet cuisine, this aerial experience captures the wild in all its grandeur—with all the elegance of old-world safari style.
Float Above the Wild – Hot Air Balloon Over the Serengeti
For those who crave exploration beneath the waves, the Maldives offers exclusive private submarine excursions through coral kingdoms teeming with marine life. From ultraluxury resorts like Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, guests can descend into the azure depths in state-of-the-art subs, witnessing manta rays, sea turtles, and neon-hued reefs in utter privacy.
These tailored voyages last up to an hour, complete with a personal pilot and marine guide to narrate the experience. Pair your dive with a marine conservation workshop, sunset sailing, and in-villa spa treatments to complete your bespoke underwater escape. It’s a rare opportunity to explore an alien world of color and movement—one that feels equal parts adventure and cinematic dream.
Hike the Inca Trail –Privately
Skip the crowds and opt for a bespoke trekking experience to Machu Picchu. Think private chefs, luxury tent setups, and curated cultural stops along the way.
Explore the Temples of Bagan, Myanmar
Wander among 2,000 ancient temples with a private guide, then retreat to your boutique hotel with river views and holistic spa treatments steeped in tradition.
Mush Through Lapland – Finnish Dog Sledding
Feel the rush of leading your own team of huskies through snow-covered forests before cozying up in a glass igloo to watch the Northern Lights dance above.
Journey Beneath the Sea – Private Submarine in the Maldives
Remote. Raw. Revered. Antarctica is one of the last true frontiers—an ethereal wilderness of sculpted ice, vast silence, and surreal beauty. Once accessible only to scientists and explorers, it’s now within reach for adventurous travelers seeking high comfort in the planet’s harshest environment.
Modern luxury expeditions offer a seamless blend of rugged exploration and refined living. Guests can expect heated oceanview suites aboard expedition vessels, or designer ecocamps set directly on the ice. Days are filled with guided Zodiac excursions, glacier treks, and close encounters with penguin colonies and seals. Some itineraries even include helicopter flights, kayaking, or the once-in-a-
lifetime journey to the Geographic South Pole.
Onboard and on land, the experience is deeply enriching—think expert-led wildlife talks, photography sessions, and chef-driven cuisine inspired by global flavors. Wellness amenities such as saunas, spa treatments, and stargazing domes round out the offering, ensuring both body and spirit are cared for.
Sustainability remains a cornerstone, with operators adhering to strict environmental protocols to preserve this pristine continent. It’s the kind of journey that transforms—where the vastness of Antarctica meets the intimacy of thoughtfully curated luxury.
Conquer the White Continent – Luxury Antarctic Expedition
Traverse Ice Kingdoms – Iceland’s Glaciers and Caves
Adventure meets artistry on a glacier hike across Iceland’s mighty Vatnajökull or while exploring the otherworldly beauty of its secretive ice caves. Guided by seasoned experts and equipped with crampons and harnesses, travelers traverse frozen landscapes shaped by volcanic activity and time.
Beneath the surface, ice caves glow in crystalline blues and silvers, like stepping into a surreal dreamscape. After a day of exploration, unwind in cozy luxury lodges, indulge in Nordic tasting menus, or soak in geothermal hot springs under the stars. For an equally stunning twist, consider similar adventures in New Zealand’s Franz Josef Glacier or the towering icefields of the Canadian Rockies—each offering its own icy enchantment.
Honorable Mentions:
Retreat in an Overwater Villa –Maldives
Sometimes the adventure is in the stillness. Picture yourself in a secluded villa above turquoise waters, with marine life just below and total tranquility all around.
Heli-Ski in the Canadian Rockies
Board a private helicopter and carve fresh tracks through untouched powder, then return to your luxury lodge for après-ski by the fire. Rugged and refined.
UNCOMMON EPICUREAN ESCAPES WHERE FLAVOUR BECOMES A JOURNEY
Step off the ordinary and into a world where every plate tells a story. Uncommon Epicurean Escapes is your invitation to savor the unexpected—to dine not just in beautiful spaces, but in stories woven from history, design, and innovation. Here, we explore five exceptional restaurants that go beyond luxury dining, each offering a sense of place, tradition, and creativity that lingers long after the last course is served.
Al Aïn – A Thousand Flavours Beneath the Atlas Sky
Location: Morocco
Tucked within a verdant resort and overlooking sweeping views of the Atlas Mountains, Al Aïn feels more like a culinary sanctuary than a restaurant. This is where Moroccan heritage is plated with purpose—where every meal becomes a mosaic of spice, tradition, and storytelling.
The ambiance alone is pure magic: hand-crafted lanterns cast golden shadows across richly decorated interiors, while Andalusian lute and derbouka music set a warm, rhythmic tone to the evening. But it’s the cuisine that truly captures the soul of Morocco. Here, centuries-old Berber, Arab, and Moresque traditions are woven into every dish. The alfresco terrace, alive with color and arabesque ornamentation, invites diners to linger a little longer, watching the light dance across the mountains.
At Al Aïn, dining is more than sustenance—it’s a vibrant, sensory journey through Morocco’s heart and history.
Aquamarine Restaurant –Beneath the Sea, Above Expectation
Location: Turkey
Step into a surreal, dreamlike underwater haven where luxury and marine wonder collide—welcome to Aquamarine Restaurant, hidden beneath the iconic Maiden’s Tower. Here, dining becomes an immersive spectacle, surrounded by the shimmering beauty of over 400,000 gallons of water teeming with marine life.
Aquamarine is a place where oceanic ambiance meets culinary artistry. As fish glide silently by, the refined seafood menu takes center stage—each dish crafted with reverence for the sea and an eye for contemporary elegance. The experience feels more like a cinematic unfolding than a meal: romantic, otherworldly, and utterly captivating.
With its unique aquarium setting Aquamarine doesn’t just serve food—it serves a fantasy that seduces all five senses.
Al Qurm Restaurant – Ocean Views, Organic Soul
Location: United Arab Emirates
At the tranquil Mysk Kingfisher Retreat, Al Qurm Restaurant offers a soulful antidote to the hurried pace of modern life. This hidden gem, cradled by mangroves and facing the Indian Ocean, blends wellness with elegance, simplicity with sophistication.
Here, the emphasis is on organic, local, and seasonal—an ever-evolving menu that reflects both global inspiration and Emirati tradition. Al Qurm is all about balance: the lightness of the dishes, the ease of the setting, the harmony of natural flavors. With open-air dining spaces and views that stretch into infinity, every meal becomes a moment of calm connection with nature.
Perfect for conscious travelers, Al Qurm is a serene celebration of clean eating, thoughtful design, and coastal serenity.
Reserved Restaurant & Lounge – A refined Anatolian culinary experience in a setting of timeless beauty
Location: Turkey
Tucked near Pigeon Valley in Uçhisar, Reserved Restaurant & Lounge blends Cappadocia’s storied stone architecture with thoughtful interior design and curated historical artifacts. The ambiance strikes a balance between heritage and elegance, making it a striking backdrop for sophisticated Anatolian dining.
Since opening in 2018, Reserved has earned acclaim for its passionate team and distinctive culinary approach. The kitchen fuses traditional Anatolian flavors with modern techniques, using organic ingredients sourced from across the region to create refined, locally rooted dishes.
Service is elevated by a highly trained bar team known for crafting original cocktails using awardwinning recipes. Combined with attentive hospitality and a serene atmosphere, Reserved offers more than just a meal—it delivers a culturally immersive and memorable dining experience.
Location: India
In Jaipur, where royalty once dined amidst glittering halls of glass, Sheesh Mahal brings regal grandeur to the present day. Nestled within the Anantara Jewel Bagh, this palatial restaurant shimmers with mirror mosaics and intricate Rajasthani artistry—an architectural homage to India’s historic Sheesh Mahals.
Executive Chef Sunil Jajoria crafts a royal feast that bridges traditional flavors with modern refinement. Expect elevated classics—think tender kebabs and aromatic biryanis served beneath domed ceilings that catch and scatter the light like stars.
Complemented by craft cocktails like the Jewel of Jaipur or the guava-laced Pink City Punch, dining at Sheesh Mahal is a sensory immersion in luxury, legacy, and lavish hospitality.
Sheesh Mahal – A Royal Feast in a Palace of Mirrors
An Invitation to Wander Differently
Uncommon Epicurean Escapes is not simply about where you eat—it’s about how dining can transform, transport, and surprise. Whether you find yourself sipping cocktails in a Cappadocian cave, indulging in seafood beneath the sea, or savoring tagine with mountain views, these extraordinary destinations promise something rare: a culinary experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.
SPOTLIGHT
PARKROYAL COLLECTION PICKERING: WHERE GREEN DREAMS TAKE ROOT
In a city known for its striking skyline and futuristic energy, one hotel rises—quite literally—with a vision that redefines what it means to stay somewhere truly unique. Nestled on the edge of Chinatown and across from Hong Lim Park, PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering, Singapore is more than just a luxury address—it’s a vertical garden sanctuary, a trailblazer in sustainable hospitality, and a true architectural icon.
Nicknamed the “hotel in a garden,” PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering is impossible to miss. With lush sky gardens, cascading greenery, and curvaceous terraces wrapping around its facade, the property was designed by award-winning architecture firm WOHA and brings a flourishing, living landscape into the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District. But this isn’t just for show—its green features serve a powerful purpose. From rainwater harvesting systems and solar panel energy to a food waste digester and natural daylight sensors, every detail of this hotel was curated with sustainability in mind.
Inside, guests are treated to a refreshing urban oasis. Each of the 367 rooms and suites is a blend of modern elegance and serene minimalism, with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping
views of the city or garden surrounds. For those seeking even more tranquility, the fifthfloor wellness floor features an outdoor infinity pool lined with birdcage-style cabanas, a fully equipped gym, and a soothing St. Gregory Spa—
all surrounded by vibrant greenery that transports guests far from the city buzz below.
Dining at the hotel’s signature Lime Restaurant is an experience unto itself. Featuring Southeast Asian flavors, international dishes, and innovative plant-based options, Lime reflects the hotel’s earth-conscious ethos in every bite.
But what truly sets PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering apart is its holistic commitment to sustainability—without compromising on style, service, or experience. This is a hotel that proves green can be glamorous, that luxury and responsibility can go hand-inhand. It has garnered global praise, including ISO 14001 environmental certification, and continues to inspire travelers who crave more than just a place to sleep.
Whether you’re in Singapore for business or leisure, a stay at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering isn’t just memorable—it’s meaningful.
SPOTLIGHT
SERENITY REDEFINED: FIVE SPA SANCTUARIES THAT TRANSCEND THE ORDINARY
In a world that moves faster than ever, the true luxury lies in stillness. As we seek spaces that nurture both body and soul, the modern spa experience has evolved from a fleeting indulgence to a transformative journey. In this spirit, we unveil five spa destinations around the world that reimagine serenity. From soaking in hops and barley in Prague to steaming under the stars in New Zealand, these exceptional sanctuaries elevate relaxation into an art form—each one unforgettable in its own way.
Royal Bush Spa – Zambia
Wellness on the Edge of the Mighty Zambezi
Set within the breathtaking grounds of Royal Zambezi Lodge, the Royal Bush Spa is one of Zambia’s premier bush spas, blending minimalist luxury with the raw beauty of nature. Perched above the Zambezi River, the spa’s open-air pavilions and private treatment rooms offer sweeping views of the water, with the sounds of snorting hippos and the cries of the African Fish Eagle providing a natural soundtrack to your wellness journey.
At the heart of the experience is a highly trained therapist offering a curated menu of massages, beauty rituals, and skincare therapies. Many treatments incorporate indigenous African ingredients, celebrating the healing gifts of the land. The Royal Bush Spa is also the Zambian flagship for the world-renowned Dermalogica brand, ensuring every treatment combines local wisdom with globally acclaimed skincare innovation.
From the moment the scent of burning candles greets you to the final moments of post-treatment relaxation in the spa’s serene lounge, every detail is designed to restore balance, peace, and connection with nature. Here, wellness is not only a ritual—it’s a profound immersion into the soul of Africa.
Original Beer Spa – Prague, Czech Republic
A hops-infused experience unlike any other
Only in Prague could soaking in beer be both a historic ritual and a luxury pastime. At the Original Beer Spa, tradition meets whimsy in the most indulgent way. Guests are invited to bathe in oak tubs filled with the natural ingredients used in Czech Krušovice® beer. These components are not only symbolic but potent, known for promoting skin regeneration and relieving stress.
The experience, of course, comes with unlimited consumption of chilled Czech lager straight from your personal tap beside the tub—a detail that sets this spa apart in the most refreshing way. Between soaks, guests can recline on beds of wheat straw, absorbing vitamins and minerals while cocooned in rustic comfort.
It’s lighthearted yet deeply therapeutic, fusing folklore with wellness in a way that only Prague can deliver. For travelers seeking the unexpected, the Original Beer Spa pours serenity by the pint.
Glen Ivy Hot Springs – California, USA
A Southern Californian oasis for holistic rejuvenation
With over 160 years of wellness history, Glen Ivy Hot Springs in Temescal Valley, California is a sanctuary where timeless natural therapies meet contemporary well-being. Nestled against the Cleveland National Forest, the resort offers a tranquil escape through mineral-rich waters, lush gardens, and thoughtful spa rituals.
Guests are invited to explore a variety of immersive experiences, from soaking in geothermal pools to indulging in The Grotto—a signature subterranean treatment where the body is painted in a warm blend of aloe vera, coconut oil, eucalyptus, shea butter, and lavender before relaxing in a gently heated cavern. After rinsing under cascading showers, visitors unwind in a cool chamber with fruit, tea, and water.
Another beloved feature is Club Mud, where spring water and red clay come together for an invigorating full-body exfoliation under the open sky. Whether basking in sun-dappled serenity or dining on nourishing fare at Ivy Kitchen, Glen Ivy offers a rejuvenating retreat grounded in nature and refined by decades of expertise.
From yoga in palm-shaded gardens to customized skin therapies, guests experience wellness as a lifestyle, not a moment.
Onsen Hot Pools Retreat –Queenstown, New Zealand Where water meets wonder
Perched high above the Shotover River, Onsen Hot Pools Retreat offers one of the most scenic soaks on earth. Private cedar hot tubs overlook the rugged mountains of Queenstown and the rushing turquoise river below, creating a panoramic backdrop that shifts with the seasons.
Each pool is filled with pure water sourced from the surrounding mountains and heated to a perfect 38–40°C. As day fades into night, a retractable roof reveals a sky blanketed with stars, transforming the experience into something cosmic. For an even more enchanting experience, book the Onsen by Lantern Light to soak under the starlit sky after sunset.
For those seeking deeper relaxation, the retreat also offers luxurious spa treatments in its tranquil rooms, ranging from deep tissue massages to traditional Japanese rituals.
Onsen Hot Pools Retreat is serenity at its most cinematic—a destination where the elements themselves seem to conspire for your renewal.
Geosea – Húsavík, Iceland
Where Arctic serenity meets geothermal magic
Perched on the edge of a cliff in North Iceland, Geosea is more than just a spa—it’s a surreal encounter with Icelandic nature at its most breathtaking. This geothermal bathing sanctuary channels mineral-rich seawater warmed by subterranean heat, offering a rare and elemental experience under the Arctic sky.
The infinity-style pools appear to spill into Skjálfandi Bay, giving bathers front-row seats to dramatic sunsets, migrating whales, and, if lucky, the elusive northern lights. Geosea’s seawater is naturally replenished and chemical-free, making it as gentle on the skin as it is striking to the senses.
Rooted in Húsavík’s history yet designed for modern tranquility, Geosea delivers a serene, elemental soak like no other. Whether you’re fresh from a whale-watching tour or simply seeking stillness in one of the world’s most unique locations, this is nature’s spa in its purest form.
A New Standard of Stillness
These five destinations challenge the idea that a spa must be traditional to be transformative. Whether you’re surrounded by wildlife in Zambia, sipping lager in a warm tub in Prague, or unwinding under the Southern stars in Queenstown, one thing is clear—serenity is no longer just about silence and solitude. It’s about immersion, imagination, and the freedom to unwind on your own terms.
As travel continues to embrace experiences that restore the soul, the modern spa is no longer an afterthought—it is the destination. In these extraordinary sanctuaries, serenity isn’t just found. It’s redefined.
IN THE NEXT EDITION... SEASIDE SPLENDOUR
In our next edition of LUXE Travel Magazine, we’re celebrating World Oceans Day with the globe’s most exquisite coastal escapes— from Maldivian overwater serenity to Mediterranean chic and beyond.
TO OUR COLLABORATORS
