MAGAZINE
BENEATH THE SOUTHERN SUN: ICONS OF ELEGANCE ACROSS LATIN AMERICA
SPOTLIGHT: HOTEL BUONA VITTA GRAMADO: THE SOUL OF TUSCANY IN SOUTHERN BRAZIL
WILD AT HEART: LUXURY LODGES OF THE SOUTHERN PLAINS
THE SOUTHERN TABLE: CULINARY JOURNEYS AND CITY ICONS 28
LATITUDE OF LUXURY: THE SPIRIT OF AFRICAN HOSPITALITY
WHERE NATURE MEETS NOBLE HOSPITALITY:
ANA GOTI — GENERAL MANAGER, GRAN MELIÁ IGUAZÚ
SPOTLIGHT: THE SPA AT THE TWELVE APOSTLES: SERENITY BETWEEN THE SEA AND SKY
BENEATH THE SOUTHERN SUN: ICONS OF ELEGANCE ACROSS
LATIN AMERICA
WHERE NATURE, CULTURE, AND GLAMOUR MEET THE SOUTHERN LIGHT
Gran Meliá Iguazú • Sofitel Bogotá
Victoria Regia • Fairmont Rio de Janeiro
Copacabana
Across the southern hemisphere, summer carries a rare kind of radiance — one that glows from the land itself. In Latin America, that light falls upon cascading waterfalls, elegant boulevards, and golden beaches that seem to shimmer with life. Here, luxury doesn’t simply mean indulgence; it means immersion — in nature, in culture, in the art of living beautifully.
Three remarkable destinations capture that essence in its purest form: Gran Meliá Iguazú in Argentina, Sofitel Bogotá
Victoria Regia in Colombia, and Fairmont Rio de Janeiro
Copacabana in Brazil. Together, they form a luminous triangle of sophistication — where design meets emotion, and where every stay tells the story of a place.
GRAN MELIÁ IGUAZÚ: NATURE’S GRAND STAGE
There are few hotels in the world where guests can open their balcony doors and hear the roar of a natural wonder. At Gran Meliá Iguazú, the only hotel located inside Argentina’s Iguazú National Park, that sound is a daily symphony — the cascading thunder of Iguazú Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Here, luxury feels both elemental and elevated. Each of the 183 nature-inspired rooms offers breathtaking views of either the jungle or the falls themselves, framing one of the planet’s most iconic landscapes in soft tones and refined textures. The hotel’s
design flows seamlessly with its surroundings — organic forms, warm woods, and natural light reflecting the rhythm of the rainforest.
Guests can spend mornings walking the hotel’s exclusive natural trail, which leads directly to the edge of the falls, and afternoons in the 163foot infinity pool overlooking the famous “Devil’s Throat.” When the mist rises above the treetops, it feels as if earth and sky merge into a single, shimmering horizon.
Culinary experiences celebrate the soul of Argentina. With three restaurants and four bars
- menus highlight international cuisine and regional Argentinian specialties. At Alter Rooftop Bar handcrafted cocktails are served with panoramic views — the perfect spot to watch the sun set in hues of gold and rose over the Iguazú River.
Beyond the views, Gran Meliá Iguazú stands for serenity. The Yasi Spa and Wellness Center invites guests to relax and rejuvenate. Combined with warm, intuitive service and proximity to both IGR and IGU airports, this sanctuary embodies the true meaning of “adventure meets elegance.”
SOFITEL BOGOTÁ
VICTORIA REGIA: CHIC SOPHISTICATION IN THE HEART OF COLOMBIA
A continent away from the jungle’s edge, Sofitel Bogotá Victoria Regia brings French art de vivre to the vibrant Colombian capital. Located in one of Bogotá’s most exclusive districts — surrounded by world-class restaurants, cultural landmarks, and designer boutiques — the hotel is a study in urban elegance.
The hotel blends French sophistication with Colombian warmth. Inside, every detail whispers refinement: soft lighting, polished woods, and floral accents that nod to the region’s natural beauty. The result is a sense of calm sophistication amid the city’s energy — a retreat designed for both leisure and business travelers seeking something beyond the ordinary.
Here, hospitality is not simply service but artistry. From the morning espresso to curated dinners highlighting local flavors, each moment is crafted with that distinct Sofitel touch — chic, effortless, and unmistakably human. Guests can keep up with wellness goals at the fitness center, host refined gatherings in the meeting rooms, or simply unwind in rooms that merge comfort with cosmopolitan style.
For those discovering Bogotá, the hotel’s location offers effortless access to the best of the city — from the cultural treasures of La Candelaria to the lush serenity of Parque de la 93. Whether exploring or simply savoring a quiet evening indoors, Sofitel Bogotá Victoria Regia is the definition of understated luxury: refined, radiant, and beautifully alive.
FAIRMONT RIO DE JANEIRO COPACABANA: THE BEACHFRONT OF DREAMS
And then, there is Rio — a name that conjures rhythm, color, and life itself. Overlooking the world’s most famous shoreline, Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana stands as a beacon of timeless glamour and Brazilian soul.
Designed by architect Patrícia Anastassiadis, the hotel channels the golden age of 1950s Copacabana, when art, music, and modernism defined Brazil’s spirit. The 375 rooms and suites are bathed in light, with soft neutral palettes, stylish midcentury accents, and balconies framing the sea. Each morning begins with the shimmer of the Atlantic; each evening ends with the distant sound of samba on the breeze.
Fairmont Rio is more than a hotel — it’s a lifestyle. Guests can move effortlessly from beach to bar, from spa to skyline. The Fairmont Spa offers a curated menu of treatments blending ancient and modern techniques, all using natural materials designed to restore balance and radiance. Two shimmering pools overlook the bay, while dining venues invite guests to experience Brazilian cuisine in its most sophisticated form — vibrant, flavorful, and celebratory.
Those who prefer activity to stillness can enjoy sporting experiences, live musical attractions, or the lively beach service that puts the best of Copacabana at one’s fingertips. Whether seeking rest or rhythm, every stay at Fairmont Rio celebrates the art of living well by the water’s edge.
A JOURNEY THROUGH LIGHT AND LUXURY
From the mist of Iguazú to the high-altitude elegance of Bogotá and the golden beaches of Rio, each destination in this southern trio tells its own story — yet all share a common thread: the pursuit of meaningful luxury.
At Gran Meliá Iguazú, nature is the muse.
At Sofitel Bogotá Victoria Regia, culture is the canvas.
At Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana, life itself becomes art.
Together, they form a radiant portrait of Latin America’s new generation of luxury — one defined not by excess, but by experience; not by distance from the world, but by a deeper connection to it. Beneath the southern sun, elegance finds its truest light
SPOTLIGHT
HOTEL BUONA VITTA GRAMADO: A TOUCH OF TUSCANY IN SOUTHERN BRAZIL
Hotel Buona Vitta
Gramado is the largest hotel in Gramado, inspired by the charm and beauty of Tuscany. Designed to reflect a touch of Italian elegance in Brazil’s Serra Gaúcha, the property offers a welcoming setting ideal for families seeking
a well-deserved getaway.
Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a spa, restaurant, lobby bar, fitness centre, pool, room service, and complimentary Wi-Fi. At Anjara Med Spa, relaxation takes centre stage, offering a complete and comforting
wellness experience where guests can feel the “poetry of the region” and fully unwind.
With thoughtful design and warm hospitality, Hotel Buona Vitta Gramado offers a serene escape blending Italian-inspired style with the inviting spirit of Gramado.
SPOTLIGHT
SPOTLIGHT
WILD AT HEART: LUXURY LODGES OF THE SOUTHERN PLAINS
WHERE LUXURY WALKS LIGHTLY ON THE LAND
Across the sweeping plains of Africa, there are places where the horizon seems endless — where light and silence move together in a rhythm older than time. Here, the luxury of wilderness is not measured in thread count or fine china, but in connection — to land, to wildlife, and to the human spirit’s deep instinct to wander.
Two lodges capture this essence with extraordinary grace: Anantya Serengeti in Tanzania and Tanda Tula Safari Camp in South Africa. Though separated by thousands of miles, they share a common philosophy — that true luxury exists where comfort meets consciousness, and where every moment is guided by respect for nature’s raw, unfiltered beauty.
ANANTYA SERENGETI — WHERE SAFARI DREAMS BEGIN
In the heart of Tanzania’s legendary Serengeti National Park, Anantya Serengeti stands as a sanctuary for the soul. Ideally positioned near the path of the Great Migration, it offers front-row access to one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles on Earth — a living, moving river of over 2.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and antelope as they journey across the plains in search of fresh grass and rain.
Each dawn at Anantya begins with a moment of quiet awe. The first light spills across the golden grasslands, touching the ancient Kopjes where leopards and lions stretch in the morning sun. From the lodge’s elegant tented suites — designed to blend seamlessly with the wilderness — guests awaken not just to a new day, but to the heartbeat of Africa itself.
Despite its proximity to the wild, Anantya Serengeti offers exceptional comfort and refinement. Every tent is a study in balance — canvas and wood, luxury and authenticity, intimacy and space. From private decks, guests can watch giraffes move like slow dancers across the horizon
or listen to the calls of hyenas and nightjars under a canopy of infinite stars.
The experience is profoundly immersive yet effortless. Here, the staff’s warmth feels genuine, the cuisine vibrant and fresh, and every game drive an unfolding story — from the drama of a hunt to the serenity of an elephant herd at sunset.
Whether observing wildlife from a safari vehicle or sharing stories beside the firelight, Anantya Serengeti transforms the idea of a safari into something deeply personal. It’s a reminder that true adventure is not about distance traveled, but about how deeply one allows the world to enter the heart.
Where Luxury Walks Lightly on the Land. At Anantya, sustainability is more than a principle—it’s a way of life. From advanced waste- and water-management systems to a solar array and river-front location, the lodge’s low-impact design and reverence for the surrounding ecosystem ensure that the magic of the Serengeti remains untouched for generations to come.
Thousands of kilometers to the south, on the edge of South Africa’s Timbavati Nature Reserve, Tanda Tula Safari Camp offers a very different kind of luxury — one rooted in authentic connection and soulful simplicity.
Tanda Tula epitomizes safari life at its most refined yet unpretentious. Set within one of the Greater Kruger ecosystem’s most pristine wilderness areas, it offers the rare gift of solitude — where the only crowds are elephants at a waterhole or buffalo herds moving through the bush.
The camp overlooks sweeping views of the Nhlaralumi riverbed, a stage for countless natural dramas that unfold from dawn until dusk. Guests can enjoy barefoot sundowners as the sky turns liquid gold, or dine under a canopy of stars by open fire — moments that feel both grounding and transcendent.
Each of the nine solar-powered tented suites at Tanda Tula is a masterpiece of quiet sophistication. Inspired by Tsonga design traditions, interiors weave earthy tones and natural textures — from the aubergine hues of local flora to smooth river stone finishes. Private plunge pools, open-air showers, and wide wooden
decks blur the line between comfort and wilderness, allowing guests to feel both pampered and profoundly connected to the land.
What makes Tanda Tula truly exceptional, however, is its heartfelt sense of purpose. The lodge’s operations are deeply tied to the surrounding community through the Tanda Tula Foundation, which supports education, literacy, and local enterprise. It’s a model of tourism that uplifts rather than exploits, proving that luxury can — and should — serve a greater good.
The wildlife experience here is equally compelling. As part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem, the Timbavati offers spectacular Big Five sightings, yet remains refreshingly uncrowded compared to other reserves. It’s not uncommon to find yourself watching a leopard hunt in silence or tracking wild dogs without another vehicle in sight — a rare privilege in today’s safari world.
Days unfold gently, guided by expert trackers and rangers who read the landscape like a living manuscript. Evenings are for slow conversation, good wine, and the crackle of firelight beneath a ceiling of southern stars.
TANDA TULA SAFARI CAMP — LIVE THE WILD, LOVE THE MOMENT
SAFARI SOUL: THE WILD, THE REFINED, THE REAL.
At Tanda Tula, time stretches — and guests rediscover the art of being fully present. It’s a place where you can live the wild and love the moment, in equal measure.
A SHARED PHILOSOPHY OF THE PLAINS
Though their settings differ — the endless grasslands of Tanzania and the wooded rivers of South Africa — Anantya Serengeti and Tanda Tula Safari Camp share a singular truth: that luxury finds its highest form when it honors the land. Both lodges are built not to dominate their surroundings, but to disappear gracefully into them.
They remind us that true privilege lies not in isolation, but in belonging — in listening to the rhythm of hooves across the plains, or the silence between stars. These lodges are not escapes from reality, but invitations to experience it more deeply.
In a world that often rushes forward, Anantya and Tanda Tula ask us to pause — to breathe, to feel, and to remember that the wild still lives within us, waiting to be awakened.
THE SOUTHERN TABLE: CULINARY JOURNEYS AND CITY ICONS
From Kinshasa to Cape Town: Dining, Design, and Distinction.
Across Africa’s southern skyline, from the lush banks of the Congo River to the wild Atlantic shores of Cape Town, a new culinary rhythm is emerging. It’s sophisticated but soulful — rooted in place, yet global in spirit. These are the kitchens, dining rooms, and hotel lounges where flavor meets philosophy, and where city culture, design, and cuisine intertwine to create unforgettable experiences.
Together, Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel, The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, Azure Restaurant and Restaurant Étoile form a constellation of southern excellence — each offering a taste of the world through the lens of their land.
Urban elegance meets tropical flair.
In the heart of Kinshasa, the Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel stands as a symbol of cosmopolitan life in one of Africa’s most dynamic capitals. Just five minutes from the city center, its bold contemporary design and tropical accents set the stage for business, leisure, and refined relaxation.
Here, the atmosphere hums with energy — the kind found only in great cities where music, art, and conversation never seem to sleep. Pullman Kinshasa captures that spirit beautifully. Its gourmet restaurant, stylish bar, and pool terrace draw both locals and travelers, offering an escape that feels at once indulgent and inspired.
At the Pullman, hospitality is an art of precision and pleasure. Every experience — from the curated coffee breaks to the modular meeting spaces and bespoke events — reflects the brand’s sensitivity to design and detail. Yet it’s the culinary offering that truly defines the hotel’s signature style: globally inspired, artfully plated, and always served with the effortless warmth of Congolese hospitality.
And for those seeking something elevated — literally — there’s Restaurant Étoile, perched on the 9th floor, where city lights meet fine dining.
PULLMAN KINSHASA GRAND HOTEL | DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
RESTAURANT ÉTOILE | KINSHASA, DRC
A star rises over the city.
From its lofty perch overlooking the Congolese capital, the restaurant offers panoramic views and polished sophistication, making it one of Kinshasa’s must-visit addresses for gourmands.
Specializing in authentic Japanese cuisine, Étoile has carved out a distinctive niche. Guests can indulge in expertly crafted sushi and Asianinspired dishes prepared with precision and artistry by the resident sushi chef. Each bite is a study in balance — delicate, fresh, and beautifully presented.
Beyond its culinary mastery, the restaurant’s inviting ambiance and cocktail menu make it equally suited for elegant dinners or after-hours gatherings. As night falls over Kinshasa, Étoile glows softly above the city — a modern dining landmark that bridges global taste with local sophistication.
THE TWELVE APOSTLES HOTEL & SPA | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Where ocean, mountain, and cuisine converge.
Few places on earth offer a dining backdrop as cinematic as The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa. Perched between the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged cliffs of its namesake mountain range, this 70-room boutique icon is the definition of destination dining.
A beloved landmark of Cape Town’s luxury scene, the hotel embodies what South Africans call “effortless hospitality.” Here, guests are welcomed as family — whether visiting for a romantic escape, a wellness retreat, or a meal with a view that seems to stretch into infinity.
While the hotel is celebrated for its spa and sunset vistas, it’s also home to one of the Mother City’s most renowned culinary experiences: the awardwinning Azure Restaurant.
The essence of the Cape, on every plate.
Overlooking the restless Atlantic, Azure Restaurant captures the heart of Cape cuisine — a fusion of coastal abundance, seasonal produce, and creative innovation. Led by Executive Chef Christo Pretorius, Azure celebrates the best of local flavors with a contemporary global touch, while Head Sommelier Gregory Mutambe curates wine pairings that reflect the Cape’s extraordinary terroir.
Guests can choose to dine indoors, surrounded by understated elegance and ocean hues, or out on the sundrenched terrace, where waves crash against the rocks below. The menu,
inspired by land and sea, champions sustainably sourced seafood and regional ingredients, presented with the finesse of fine dining and the soul of the Cape itself.
Every meal here feels like a celebration — of nature, of craftsmanship, and of the quiet joy that comes from eating well in one of the world’s most beautiful places. Whether it’s an intimate dinner, a special occasion, or a moment of spontaneous indulgence, Azure is where the city meets the sea in perfect harmony.
AZURE RESTAURANT | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
A Taste of the South: The Glow of Place
Each of these destinations — from Kinshasa’s creative pulse to Cape Town’s coastal grace — tells a different story of the Southern Hemisphere’s culinary evolution. Yet they share a common thread: a belief that true luxury is not about excess, but about connection — to flavor, to place, and to the people who bring both to life.
At the Pullman Kinshasa, gastronomy becomes a social language of the modern African capital. At Azure, dining becomes an act of communion between land and sea.
Together, they define The Southern Table — a celebration of how the world’s southern cities are shaping the future of travel and taste, one unforgettable meal at a time.
LATITUDE OF LUXURY: THE SPIRIT OF AFRICAN HOSPITALITY
SOUL. STYLE. THE NEW SHAPE OF AFRICAN LUXURY.
Across the continent, Africa’s most inspiring stays are no longer defined by grandeur alone — but by heart, vision, and a deep connection to community. This is the world of Latitude Hotels, a family of design-led boutique sanctuaries in Zambia, Malawi, and Uganda, each one capturing the contemporary African spirit through creativity, culture, and conscious living.
More than hotels, they are living, breathing spaces — where art hangs not as décor, but as dialogue; where local craftsmanship meets global sensibility; and where guests don’t just check in, but truly belong. Together, Latitude 15° in Lusaka, Latitude 13° in Lilongwe, and Latitude 0° in Kampala reimagine what it means to experience African hospitality: modern, meaningful, and masterfully designed.
ART.
LATITUDE 15° | LUSAKA, ZAMBIA
Design, culture, and connection in perfect rhythm.
In the cosmopolitan heart of Lusaka, Latitude 15° rises as a beacon of modern African elegance. Every detail, from the earthy tones of its walls to the striking contemporary art adorning its corridors, reflects the continent’s vibrant creativity. More than a hotel, it’s a cultural hub — a space that celebrates Africa’s soul with quiet sophistication.
Guests are greeted by architecture that seamlessly fuses modern design with traditional artistry, blending sleek lines with tactile, natural materials. Inside, the atmosphere is alive with warmth — a fusion of African chic and global refinement. Whether visiting for business or leisure,
travelers find a perfect balance of creativity and calm.
Dining at Latitude 15° is a journey through Zambia’s rich culinary heritage and beyond. The hotel’s two dining venues — The Other Side and the Latitude 15 Restaurant — present menus that marry local flavors with global influence, crafted from the freshest local produce. Each plate tells a story of Zambia’s land, people, and passion for flavor.
Beyond the table, Latitude 15° is deeply rooted in Lusaka’s creative energy. Regular art exhibitions, live performances, and cultural showcases fill the calendar,
transforming the property into a dynamic platform for Zambia’s artists and musicians. Guests can even explore a curated collection of contemporary African art on-site, adding a personal dimension to their stay.
For moments of quiet indulgence, the hotel offers a serene spa, lush gardens, and a sparkling pool, all designed to restore balance. A well-equipped gym caters to fitness enthusiasts, ensuring a holistic sense of well-being.
Here, hospitality transcends service — it’s storytelling, sensory immersion, and a celebration of Africa’s new voice in luxury design.
LATITUDE 13° | LILONGWE, MALAWI
Latitude Life: Crafted with Culture and Consciousness.
Just beyond the bustle of Lilongwe, Latitude 13° unfolds like an art piece — intimate, imaginative, and irresistibly inviting. This boutique haven embodies the Latitude philosophy: to live, work, and play in harmony with community and creativity.
Stepping through its gates, guests are enveloped in a symphony of design and
emotion. The hotel’s rustic charm is balanced by artistic sophistication, where every wall, sculpture, and fabric celebrates the ingenuity of Malawian artisans. The result is a sanctuary where business travelers, digital nomads, and dreamers alike find inspiration in every corner.
The property’s rooms and suites echo its ethos —
chic yet soulful, functional yet expressive. Spaces are adorned with handcrafted details and warm tones that reflect Malawi’s natural landscape, while the layout encourages both productivity and peace.
At the heart of the experience is Latitude 13°’s restaurant, where chefs draw upon both local and international
influences to create dishes that honor the region’s culinary diversity. Each meal is a reflection of Malawi’s warmth — rich in flavor, generous in spirit.
Guests can unwind in two shimmering pools, escape to the spa for restorative
treatments, or keep active in the gym. For professionals on the move, meeting rooms blend business with creativity, supported by the hotel’s signature design flair.
Yet it’s the feeling that defines Latitude 13° most of all. Whether you’re sipping coffee under the canopy, attending
an art showcase, or working from a sunlit terrace, the atmosphere resonates with authenticity. Here, design and hospitality meet with intention — a true reflection of modern Africa’s creative heartbeat.
LATITUDE 0° | KAMPALA, UGANDA
A view from the equator, a vision for tomorrow.
High atop Makindye Hill, overlooking the vibrant city of Kampala and the shimmering expanse of Lake Victoria, lies Latitude 0° — a destination that captures the very essence of balance: between nature and design, relaxation and innovation, tradition and the future.
This elevated retreat offers more than spectacular views. It embodies the Latitude vision in its purest form — an African lifestyle hotel that’s both a social hub and a sanctuary. Here, travelers mingle with artists, entrepreneurs, and locals who gather in lounges and rooftop bars for evenings filled with music, art, and connection.
The hotel’s 47 guest rooms and suites offer a serene escape. Every element — from the locally sourced art to the earthy color palette
— reflects a commitment to sustainability and authenticity.
Guests can explore three restaurants and three bars, each offering culinary delights inspired by global traditions and Ugandan flavors. The spa and swimming pools provide tranquil respites, while the gym keeps fitness a part of the journey. Meanwhile, private workspaces, meeting rooms, and conference facilities make Latitude 0° a pioneering co-working destination — one of the first of its kind in Uganda.
As one of Uganda’s early adopters of eco-conscious hospitality, Latitude 0° integrates sustainability into every facet of its operations. It’s a model of mindful luxury that inspires both guests and the wider hospitality landscape.
THE LATITUDE PHILOSOPHY
At the heart of every Latitude property lies a single, unifying belief: that luxury is most powerful when it has purpose. Each hotel is a reflection of its surroundings — designed to honor local art, empower communities, and offer travelers a deeper way to connect.
Their interiors are not merely styled; they are stories brought to life through texture, color, and craft. Their teams are not just service staff; they are ambassadors of warmth, creativity, and care. And their ethos — of sustainability, artistry, and cultural respect — represents the future of African hospitality. Whether at 15°, 13°, or 0°, guests experience the same gravitational pull — towards people, towards place, and towards a philosophy that redefines what it means to travel beautifully in Africa.
WHERE NATURE MEETS NOBLE HOSPITALITY
Ana Goti — General Manager, Gran Meliá Iguazú
Standing at the edge of one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders, Gran Meliá Iguazú is a sanctuary of refined luxury framed by the raw, powerful beauty of Iguazú Falls. Leading this iconic property is Ana Goti, a seasoned luxury hospitality professional whose global experience and deep respect for nature have shaped one of South America’s most celebrated hotels. In this exclusive conversation, Ana shares her journey, her philosophy, and what it means to redefine luxury inside a UNESCO-protected paradise.
Could you start by telling us about your journey in hospitality and what led you to your current role as General Manager of Gran Meliá Iguazú?
With over 15 years of experience in international luxury hospitality, I have had the opportunity to develop my career within Meliá Hotels International, specifically under the Gran Meliá brand, holding management positions at iconic properties such as Gran Meliá Rome, Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques in Madrid, and Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora in Tenerife. These experiences allowed me to gain a global perspective of the industry and a deep understanding of the brand’s philosophy — one rooted in timeless luxury, excellence, and meticulous attention to detail.
Since 2020, I have had the privilege of leading Gran Meliá Iguazú, the only luxury resort located inside Iguazú National Park. My goal has been to strengthen its position as a benchmark for excellence and sustainability, harmonizing the natural beauty of the surroundings with the highest standards of service. Under my management, the hotel has been recognized as Argentina’s Best Hotel for three consecutive years by the World Travel Awards, and recently honored by the LUXE Global Awards 2025 with four distinctions: Best Luxury Resort Hotel (Global), Best Luxury Jungle Resort (Global), Best Luxury Scenic View Hotel (South America), and Best Luxury Rooftop View Hotel (South America).
Gran Meliá Iguazú is the only hotel located inside Iguazú National Park. What does that mean for the guest experience — and for you as a custodian of such a remarkable location?
Being located inside Iguazú National Park is both a privilege and a great responsibility. We are not only the sole luxury resort immersed in this extraordinary natural setting but also custodians of a World Heritage Site of exceptional beauty and fragility. This dual role completely defines the experience we offer to our guests.
From the moment they arrive, we aim to create opportunities for guests to connect with nature
through respect and awe. The constant sound of the Falls, the panoramic views from every corner of the hotel, and the proximity to the rainforest make every stay truly unique. Beyond the visual impact, what distinguishes us is our commitment to sustainability: we strive to minimize our environmental footprint, support local communities, and preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem around us.
Personally, leading this project in such an extraordinary place is a continuous source of inspiration. It reminds me that genuine hospitality is not only measured by standards of luxury, but also by the way we honor and care for the environment that welcomes us.
What makes Iguazú Falls such an aweinspiring destination, and how does the hotel capture that natural wonder in its design and guest experience?
Iguazú Falls is one of those rare places that always exceeds expectations. No matter how many times one visits, it never fails to move you. It’s a perfect balance of strength, beauty, and spirituality — a reminder of nature’s power in its purest form.
At Gran Meliá Iguazú, we strive to make that emotion the central thread of the entire experience. The architecture and design of the hotel are conceived to blend seamlessly with the landscape. Every space — from
the guestrooms to the infinity pool and the restaurants overlooking the Falls — is designed so that nature takes center stage.
Gran Meliá Iguazú perfectly embodies the concept of contemporary luxury: culturally inspired design, authentic local cuisine, soothing spa treatments, adventurous activities, and attentive service that anticipates every need. Our hotel captures the essence of Argentine culture — simple pleasures, connection to the land, appreciation for craftsmanship, and understated elegance in every detail.
Wellness is also an essential part of the experience. At our Yasi Health Club, guests
can enjoy a collection of relaxing and energizing rituals inspired by the healing properties of yerba mate, combining wellbeing, tradition, and a deep connection with nature.
Gran Meliá Iguazú seamlessly blends luxury with nature. How do you and your team ensure that elegance and environmental respect go hand in hand?
At Gran Meliá Iguazú, we see luxury not only as sophistication or comfort, but as a form of harmony with the environment. Our purpose is to offer an elegant yet deeply conscious experience — that is the foundation of our management philosophy.
Every decision — from architectural design to operational processes — seeks to maintain a balance between aesthetics, efficiency, and sustainability. We work with local suppliers, reduce single-
use plastics, implement energy management and waste-treatment systems, and promote practices that minimize our environmental impact. At the same time, we pay attention to every detail to ensure impeccable hospitality, where guest wellbeing and respect for nature coexist naturally.
None of this would be possible without the dedication of our team. We all share the same vision: to deliver an authentic luxury experience that inspires our guests while preserving this unique place for future generations.
As a leader in luxury hospitality, what inspires your management style and your vision for the guest experience at Gran Meliá Iguazú?
My leadership style is based on closeness, inspiration, and teamwork. I firmly believe that a hotel achieves excellence when its people share a common purpose
and feel part of something greater. In our case, that purpose is to create memorable experiences that connect guests with nature and with the essence of genuine hospitality.
I am inspired by environments that evoke emotion — like Iguazú — where the energy of the place encourages everyone to give their best. I strive to cultivate a leadership approach that balances high standards with empathy, valuing both innovation and human warmth. At a hotel like this, luxury lies not only in the spaces or services, but in how we make each guest feel truly unique and deeply cared for.
Our vision is to continue elevating the standards of hospitality in Argentina and the region, combining operational excellence, cultural authenticity, and sustainability as inseparable pillars of the Gran Meliá experience.
Finally, if you could describe the magic of Gran Meliá Iguazú in just four words, what would they be?
A Sublime Sensory Experience.
With Ana Goti at the helm, Gran Meliá Iguazú is not only a gateway to one of the world’s greatest natural wonders — it is also a testament to thoughtful luxury, purposeful hospitality, and a deep respect for place. As guests immerse themselves in the roar of the Falls and the serenity of the rainforest, they discover a rare space where refinement and nature exist in true harmony. In this corner of Argentina, luxury isn’t just seen — it’s felt, heard, breathed, and remembered.
SPOTLIGHT
THE SPA AT THE TWELVE APOSTLES: SERENITY BETWEEN THE SEA AND SKY
On the edge of the Atlantic, where Cape Town’s rugged mountains plunge into a glittering horizon, The Spa at The Twelve Apostles rests between worlds — a sanctuary poised between sea and sky. Here, the rhythm of the waves and the whisper of wind through fynbos become part of the therapy, grounding guests in the untamed beauty that makes the Cape so extraordinary.
Part of the legendary Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, this award-winning haven is more than a destination for treatments — it is a holistic journey into tranquility. Tucked beneath the dramatic peaks of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, the spa’s interiors evoke the hush of a natural grotto. Soft lighting and organic textures create a cocoon-like atmosphere that feels worlds away from the pulse of the city.
Within its serene embrace lie seven treatment rooms, including two romantic couple’s gazebos
overlooking the ocean. The views alone inspire stillness — each glance a reminder of nature’s grandeur. Guests can indulge in a wealth of restorative experiences, from the Rasul chamber’s traditional cleansing ritual to the hydrotherapy pools, plunge baths, and flotation pool, each designed to awaken and soothe in equal measure.
At the heart of the experience is an uncompromising dedication to personalised wellness. Using premium brands such as Tata Harper and Elemis, every ritual begins with a detailed consultation and evolves into a bespoke journey tailored to the guest’s needs. The treatments blend ancient wisdom with modern science — a dialogue between nature and nurture that defines the spa’s philosophy.
Those seeking deeper renewal can unwind in the tranquility lounge, where gentle music and ocean light invite quiet reflection. Nearby, a complimentary health bar buffet offers freshly
pressed juices, mineral water, and wholesome snacks, allowing wellness to extend from treatment room to table. Each element — from scent to taste, sound to touch — is curated to nurture balance and connection.
Whether guests come for a full day of rejuvenation or a single twilight massage, every visit becomes a memory etched in calm. Imagine the warmth of skilled hands easing tension as the sun melts into the Atlantic, or the meditative stillness of floating in mineral-rich water with the mountains watching over you — this is wellness elevated to art.
Open daily from 8 am to 6 pm, The Spa at The Twelve Apostles welcomes both overnight guests and day visitors. It is a place where time slows, senses awaken, and Cape Town’s wild beauty becomes part of every breath.
In the soft meeting of sea mist and sunlight, serenity finds its truest home.
SPOTLIGHT
SPOTLIGHT
IN THE NEXT EDITION... FESTIVE JOURNEYS
This December, we invite you to discover Festive Journeys — a celebration of global warmth, meaningful travel, and unforgettable year-end indulgence. From winter-kissed escapes to sunlit seaside retreats, explore how the world celebrates in style.
TO OUR COLLABORATORS
