SLOW TRAVEL
SOAK UP THE WONDERS OF EUROPE AT A LEISURELY PACE
CORAL WONDERS EDUCATE & INSPIRE BENEATH MALDIVES’ AZURE OCEAN WAVES
ARGENTINA AT ITS MOST BOLD, BEAUTIFUL & FLAVOURFUL
DESTINATION SPA IMMERSE MIND & BODY WITH LUXURIOUS SPA EXPERIENCES
Welcome to the latest edition of Journeys.
For more than four decades Minor Hotels has been charming guests with seamless stays and extraordinary experiences through our Anantara , Avani, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Tivoli, Oaks and Elewana brands. It’s a journey that has always been inspired by my love of travel, and in turn it has inspired me to always seek out new places, people and discoveries. At the heart of this love of travel is my passion for cars and I’m proud to announce the inaugural Anantara Concorso Roma , a historic car concours coming to Rome in April 2025. This is an event that’s very dear to my heart, featuring a collection of some of the rarest Italian cars ever assembled in one place. I look forward to seeing many of you there.
Join us again in 2025 as we unveil a whole new world of travel under the new Minor Hotels brand – everything that matters, all in one place.
William E. Heinecke Founder and Chairman, Minor International
Comments & Suggestions: Please write in to Agency Fish Pty Ltd or email: anantara@ agencyfish.com . We may not always be able to enter into correspondence. Any opinion expressed is the honest belief of the author based on all available facts, but is not necessarily the view of Agency Fish, Minor Hotel Group, or its employees. Comments and facts should not be relied upon by the reader in taking commercial, legal, financial, or other decisions. Articles are by their nature general, and readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information published within which may not be appropriate for the readers’ particular circumstances. The publisher regrets that it cannot accept liability for any error or omissions printed, however caused. Journeys magazine is published for Minor Hotel Group Limited. All rights reserved. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the express permission of the publisher in writing. Copyright © 2024 Agency Fish/ Minor Hotel Group. Agency Fish Pty Ltd, Caversham, WA 6055, Australia E&EO. www.agencyfish.com
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Cover image – Riviera
Sailaway experience, Anantara Plaza
Nice Hotel
inspire
6 – London A duo of London dining delights; The Delaunay and The Wolseley.
10 – Rome Three and four wheels with Italian flair.
14 – Style Inspired by Parisian croissants, Spanish gazpacho and Amalfi lemons.
22 – Explore Discover new wines in Collio, and equine experiences.
26 – Inspire Lisbon, Frankfurt, Barcelona and more: enjoy city vistas from unique rooftops.
32 – Architecture Award-winning inside and out, nhow Rotterdam.
34 – Style Natural raffia, wicker and woven wonders.
38 – Spa Ras Al Khaimah rituals, UAE.
40 – New Horizons Extraordinary new openings from Minor Hotels.
44 – Snapshots Images to inspire your next journey.
96 – Sundowner Catch sunsets and surf at this Bali icon.
50 – Slow Travel
The antithesis of a rushed weekend break, we slow travel to enchanting corners of Europe.
60 – Explore Slow travel in Siem Reap, Hoi An, and on the Mekong.
64 – Maldives
How conservation efforts are vital in protecting and preserving the country’s unique ecosystems.
74 – Argentina Malbec, yerba mate, and slow-grilled steaks –Argentinians are boldly proud to share their love of food.
86 – Wellness 101
Spa treatment trends to leave you feeling rejuvenated and revitalised long after you arrive home.
Walk into The Delaunay and there’s an immediate sense of European grandeur that oozes from the dark wood panelled walls, gilt-edged mirrors, imposing brickwork, huge windows, crisp white linen tablecloths, and reassuringly welcoming seating.
These authentic details create the perfect setting to absorb the breakfast, lunch and dinner menus as well as the coveted wine list. As you browse the delightful European dishes, pay attention to the exact wording, as each menu also unfolds some of Europe’s rich culinary history.
For instance, the word ‘Viennoiserie’ refers to flaky, buttery breakfast pastries first invented in Vienna, Austria in the 13th century, originally called kipferl, which were taken to Paris. Yes, the croissant is actually Austrian. Still on breakfast, the specific Swiss-German spelling of Birchermüesli unfolds the dietary insight of Swiss physician Maximilian Bircher-Benner, whose Apfeldiätspeise ‘Apple Diet Meal’ was originally a healthy evening appetiser for his wellness patients in the 1900s, playing a role in Switzerland’s renown as a world-class health destination.
When menu descriptions are handled with such care, you know the dishes themselves will be delightfully authentic. The lunch and dinner menus proudly showcase a central band of sizzling sausage and schnitzel dishes – including a vegan option of aubergine schnitzel with salsa verde and sun-dried tomatoes – that will ensure dining here at any time of day becomes habitual.
The Delaunay also celebrates its proximity to London’s West End theatreland, being just steps away from Covent Garden, with their lauded ‘Delaunay Presents’ events. Hosted by the affable Tim Wapshott, who’s been immersed in British theatre, film and music for over three decades, guests have included Sir Ian McKellen, Anne Reid and Brian Cox CBE, with whom Tim engages in convivial conversation while guests dine from a bespoke evening menu.
Sunday guests can enjoy the roast special – a classic combination of roasted Hereford beef sirloin with Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Perhaps one of the signature cocktails sums up The Delaunay’s unique celebration of theatre and European grandeur: the Gielgud – a curated mix of Spanish Amontillado sherry, 10-year-old Scottish Laphroaig whisky, British honey, fresh lemon juice, and Austrian Stiegl Goldbrau lager. thedelaunay.com
Adjacent to The Delaunay, The Delaunay Counter Café and Bar offers a more informal dining experience, ideal for a quick preor post-theatre meal and drinks. It’s also an ideal venue for dessert alone, with Bavarian chocolate mousse with a florentine tuile, classic apple strudel, or a rich slice of Sachertorte to eat in or take away. Oh, do ask staff about the Kaiserschmarrn
WORDS BY KAREN MARTIN
For visitors to The Wolseley, the grand café-restaurant in London’s Piccadilly, the exceptional service starts the moment you reach the entrance.
Door Person Helen Scott, who joined The Wolseley in her 60s, welcomes us with a friendly greeting and a smile. She invites us inside to meet Senior Maitre D’ Matthew Silcock, who has been an integral part of The Wolseley team for 20 years.
Stepping into the restaurant, you’re immediately struck by the grand interior, with its towering pillars, domed ceiling, and monochrome geometric marble flooring. Originally a prestigious car showroom, then a bank – when it became known as ‘Piccadilly’s Shining Pearl’ – the iconic 1920s building combines British heritage with European grandeur, and was thoughtfully restored and renovated in 2003 as The Wolseley, a nod to original residents Wolseley Motors Limited.
Matthew greets us warmly amid the bustling atmosphere. Joining the restaurant as a waiter, he quickly rose to the position
of Assistant Maitre D’ within a year. Two decades later, as Senior Maitre D’, he is still one of the first faces guests see when they arrive inside The Wolseley.
“I like talking and meeting new people, I’m definitely a people person,” he says. “I often describe my role as steering the ship, ensuring that things keep moving in the right direction – and that guests are seated at their table in a timely manner of course.”
Another of Matthew’s skills is his keen memory for faces and preferences when it comes to the restaurant’s regulars. Recognising guests quickly and seating them at their preferred tables has become second nature. “It’s important that guests are always greeted with a smile,” he notes, highlighting the personal touch that The Wolseley is known for. “I really enjoy interacting with guests and the fact that no two days are the same.”
Indeed, amid the swirl of daily responsibilities, some moments are etched in his memory more than others. He recalls a particularly unforgettable evening when a power outage struck Piccadilly. “We still managed to fill the restaurant. It was an amazing atmosphere!” he smiles.
While cold cuts and cheese boards may have been in demand that night, Matthew reveals that usually The Wolseley’s most popular dishes are the schnitzels, which have been on the menu since the restaurant first opened. “Other favourites that I’d recommend include the smoked haddock kedgeree and the soufflé Suisse,” he adds. Inspired by the grand cafés of Europe, the extensive menus range from breakfasts, all-day refreshments, lunches, afternoon teas, dinners and late evening snacks.
After two decades and countless interactions, Matthew’s dedication to his role is reflective of the ethos of The Wolseley, which prides itself as much on its seamless service and friendly ambiance as on its timeless cuisine. thewolseley.com
Vespizzatevi!
WORDS BY JENNY HEWETT
The only thing that can draw eyes away from a gleaming Ferrari in Italy is a sidecar. When they see you coming in a sidecar in the Eternal City, undoubtedly one of Europe’s most glamorous sprawls, heads turn faster than you can say “Andiamo!”. Luxury scooter brand Vespa is one of Italy’s most treasured emblems and there’s no better way to soak up Rome’s romantic architecture and feel its cobbled streets than zipping around roundabouts and past piazzas in a bold and beautiful gleaming Vespa sidecar.
Channelling Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck in 1953 rom-com Roman Holiday, you’ll set off from your palatial base at Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel with a personal driver providing commentary through an audio headset and leisurely detours to some of the city’s most
ancient sites. A quick stop at the Trevi Fountain might involve tossing a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand to ensure your return to Rome, before hopping back in the sidecar and whizzing off to the next icon. Don’t forget to wave to the ghosts of rulers past as you zip past the balcony where Mussolini addressed citizens long ago.
There’s even time for a café stop after a private tour with your driver inside the Pantheon, which reveals all sorts of unexpected nuggets.
Of course, this tour takes in all of the icons, including the wedding cake-esque Palazzo Venezia and one of the city’s many Egyptian obelisks, but your driver will likely also show you the Rome that locals know and love. Perhaps you’ll wind through to the ‘secret’ spot at Oppian Hill, where you can photograph the Colosseum, or head over to one of Rome’s more working-class neighbourhoods or to an elevated viewpoint that offers postcard-perfect panoramas of the city. Rome wasn’t built in a day, but this sidecar tour will make it feel like it was.
In 1946 Rome became the capital of the new Italian Republic and Vespa was created by Piaggio, aptly channelling a newfound feeling of freedom –those whizzing two-wheeled wonders revolutionised how Rome’s citizens could navigate their city, and that feeling has spread across the world.
So ubiquitous to Italian life, ‘Vespa’ has become a verb, with Vespizzatevi! (‘Let’s Vespa’) adopted as a feeling of spontaneity, and it sits in harmony with its sidecar companion, La dolce vita Soak in everything Piaggio including Vespa, Aprilia and Moto Guzzi at the Museo Piaggio, Pontedera, 30 minutes from Pisa, which is also home to the Vespa World Club.
museopiaggio.it
WORDS BY DAWN GIBSON-FAWCETT
Is there anything sexier than the roar of a Bugatti or the low sleek curves of a Ferrari?
Italians imbue their cars with a certain something that nowhere else on earth can replicate; a unique spirit and passion, instantly generating an emotional connection, morphing feats of engineering into works of art.
So it’s fitting that the inaugural Anantara Concorso Roma will be a celebration of Automobili Italiane held in the heart of historic Rome.
Fifty of the rarest historic Italian masterpieces ever assembled will gather amid the timeless backdrop of the Eternal City, with classic Alfa Romeos, Maseratis, and Lamborghinis, from pioneering models to early supercars.
Renowned concours grandee Dr Adolfo Orsi Jnr will head the international team of noted judges, while a second group of ‘style’ judges will evaluate the cars for their emotional elegance.
In keeping with European tradition, the Anantara Concorso Roma will be just as much about the people as the automobiles. Participants will be treated to a series of priceless luxury experiences, including being hosted as honoured guests at seldom seen
private palazzi and privileged access to some of Rome’s extraordinary hidden treasures, while enjoying the best of contemporary Italian cuisine, luxury style, and hospitality.
A neoclassical marble palace
The itinerary will be centred in and around Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel, centrally located on the grand Piazza della Repubblica, a short walk from Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps. Overlooking the Fountain of the Naiads, this impressively restored 19th century marble palace is the epitome of opulence – a sophisticated blend of the neoclassical and contemporary, featuring soaring ceilings, extravagant Murano glass chandeliers and magnificent marble floors throughout.
Entrants and special guests can watch the sun set over a panoramic view of Rome from the magnificent rooftop bar then continue the celebrations in the Champagnerie or the expansive double-height lobby bar. And, of course, outside the elegant palace doors, all of the attractions of Rome await. La dolce vita never looked so good.
The Anantara Concorso Roma will take place in Rome from 24 – 27 April, 2025. anantaraconcorsoroma.com
“On behalf of Anantara Hotels & Resorts it is a pleasure to announce the inaugural Anantara Concorso Roma, an exclusive historic car concours in the heart of Rome. Curated by Dr Adolfo Orsi Jnr and Jeremy Jackson-Sytner, the event will present cars to an international panel of judges. Anantara Concorso Roma will honour Rome’s rich motor racing history, including the Mille Miglia and the Gran Premio di Roma. The event will pay tribute to Rome’s heritage and Italian craftsmanship, cuisine, design, and luxury lifestyle, aiming to assemble the finest Italian automotive masterpieces displayed against the stunning backdrop of Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel. I look forward to seeing many of you in Rome in 2025.”
William E. Heinecke, Founder and Chairman, Minor International
As well as decadent pastries, Kozak serves up authentic Ukrainian cuisine from their trio of restaurants across Vancouver. Don’t miss the angular, melt-in-your-mouth Croissant Cubes, which are share-sized and come in a lavish flurry of flavours, including lemon, blueberry and pistachio. kozakeatery.ca
Inspired by the rich buttercream Purple Icing from the worldfamous New York city-based Magnolia Bakery, this sleek carryon features Monos’ first-ever glossy shell with whisper-quiet wheels, vegan leather and striped interior. Metro Duffle in LTD edition Purple Icing Carry-On Pro Plus. US$315 monos.com
Ex-Formula 1 aerodynamicist Katie Reid has five ‘croissanteries’ across eastern Australia, where her sublime pastries include the Cardamom Bun, inspired by Copenhagen’s kardemummabullar and made with twisted croissant pastry with a spiced sugar mix of brown sugar, cinnamon and orange zest. lunecroissanterie.com
The aroma of freshly-baked ppang (bread) welcomes you into the oldest bakery in Seoul, South Korea. Their sweet red bean bread is a warm embrace of nostalgia, while their unique sweet treat, Kesley, is a dense delightful indulgence, smothered in chocolate and perfect with warm black tea. taegeukdang.com
Indulge in the warm, buttery aroma of freshly baked croissants, layered with a hint of sweet vanilla totally guilt-free. Natural wax blend. US$89 overose.com
Crystal adorned croissant clutch with champagne-toned metal hardware and metallic leather interior.
US$5,995 judithleiber.com
Playfully elegant geometric croissant door furniture in blackened bronze, distressed bronze, natural bronze. Distressed bronze, US$128 emilygillis.com.au
Croissant pendant light from Portuguese furniture designer João Teixeira, who reimagines objects into thoughtful, multifunctional designs. US$498 gantri.com
Voluptuous and sublimely crafted by late Danish designer Illum Wikkelsø. The complex curves of the form are achieved through meticulous handstitching, with the base in oiled American walnut or oak.
Three seat sofa, US$11,999 gubi.com
The Vestiaire Collective specialises in pre-loved, sought-after luxury, such as this vintage LV Croissant, with prices suited to condition. From US$550 to over $8,000 vestiairecollective.com
Andy Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans are one of the most iconic works born of the Pop Art era (mid-1950s to the 1970s). Original versions can be seen at MoMA New York and Portugal’s Centro Cultural de Belem, Lisbon Authentic Sunday B. Morning 59cm x 89cm print on museum board.
US$935 gallerypop.co.uk
This Spanish classic, served cold in the hot summers, reflects the heavily agrarian nature of Andalucia, with tomato, onion, garlic, pepper, olive oil, vinegar, salt and, of course, freshly baked bread. Guests can get hands-on and create this enticing dish in Spice Spoons cooking classes at Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavis Marbella Resort
ingredients
1.2kg ‘pera’ or ‘roma’ tomatoes
32g of both green & red pepper
200ml extra-virgin olive oil
20ml sherry vinegar
1-2 cloves of garlic, and salt & pepper to taste
method
Wash, dry then chop the tomatoes and vegetables and place them in a container with a touch of salt, a splash of both olive oil and vinegar, and stir well.
Rest for at least half an hour, or refrigerate overnight, then remove garlic if desired. Pour everything into a food processor and blend at maximum speed to ensure the skins are crushed. Add the rest of the olive oil in a steady stream, blending little by little to emulsify. Taste to adjust, and add a little water if too thick. Sieve for a lighter texture and garnish to taste.
This organic American heirloom variety, the Black Cherry (Solanum lycopersicum L.), won best tomato taste test of 2024. Awarded by The Diggers Club, a dedicated group who’ve been preserving biocultural treasures like heirloom seeds for three decades, the aptly named tomato bears dark juicy sweet fruit, which change in hue from green to mahogany-brown when sweet and tart, before deepening to reddish brown with a lovely smoky-sweet flavour. Seeds available to members only. diggers.com.au
Ripe, supple, and bursting with juice, the scent of the Heirloom Tomato vegetable wax candle catapults you to memories of late summer dinner parties in Sicilian gardens.
US$51 flamingoestate.com
Fresh season’s harvest aesthetic red casserole pot, made of stoneware with a vitreous glass porcelainenamel finish. US$45 thestaub.com
Divas Dream 18k rose gold openwork necklace set with a pear-shaped ruby (1.52cts), round brilliant-cut rubies (0.85cts), a round brilliant-cut diamond and pavé diamonds (0.86cts). bulgari.com
Salt ‘n’ Vinegar soft cotton retro-style striped crocheted mini dress, with orange thread finishing, is a vibrant pop of summer. US$650 ladoublej.com
The playful SOFORT 2 combines Leica’s sleek design aesthetic and optical excellence in a point and shoot instant-print companion. Ten film and lens settings allow for an array of outputs, including a ‘Retro’ one that evokes the 1970s era of instant cameras. Surprisingly thin. Pair via Bluetooth to the Leica FOTOS app. US$399 leica-camera.com
Makeup meets skincare in the hydrating, airy feel of Lip Suede in Le Rouge, Bright Tomato matte lipstick. Featuring vivid, clean pigment and a blend of peptides, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Hydro Suede Technology. westman-atelier.com
Leather-trimmed canvas tote printed with Versace’s distinct baroque motif, overlaid with bold starfish and coral designs and finished with the signature ‘Medusa’ embellishment. US$1,750 versace.com
Built into the cliffside in the 13th century, this former Capuchin convent was completely renovated in 2023 as the Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel, whose former monks’ quarters are now chic, minimalistic guest rooms that faithfully retain a solemn simplicity.
Exceptional views over the harbour, sea and surrounds can be enjoyed by taking a private sunset cruise; dropping anchor at Li Galli Island, setting sail from Amalfi pier to Fiordo di Furore, then onto Positano; or by high-speed yacht on a full-day trip to Capri, stopping for swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing and dining. To soak in the entire area, take off from Ravello for a curated private helicopter tour of Positano and Sorrento
Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards No. 2 Best Hotels in Rest of Italy.
National Geographic Traveller Hotel Awards Romantic Escape.
Gin Tonic Clutch crafted from translucent resin and scattered with tiny crystals for a light-catching, effervescent effect. US$2,695 aquazzura.com
Colour Therapy set of eight enamel and goldtone bracelets. The yellow hues symbolise friendship, optimism and clarity. US$150 roxanneassoulin.com
Pleated, printed, smooth cotton-poplin midi dress with a print that pays homage to the art of Majolica. US$2,195
Contes de Fées’ collection earrings in ethical 18k yellow gold set with brilliant-cut white diamonds (5.14cts), pear-shaped (3.25cts) and marquise-cut (1.53cts) yellow diamonds. POA. chopard.com
The RM88 Automatic Winding Tourbillon Smiley pays homage to the iconic face drawn by Franklin Loufrani just over 50 years ago, and is surrounded by whimsical, pop culture symbols in exceptional detail, including a spiky cactus, pink flamingo and cocktail glass. Case in ATZ white ceramic and red gold, finished with a suitably bold yellow strap.
POA. Limited edition of 50. richardmille.com
Bianca embroidered white and yellow leather-trimmed canvas slides. Intricate Caltagirone swirls and blooms. US$1,250 dolcegabbana.com
WORDS BY SARAH LANE
For a memorable experience and a unique, bird’s-eye view of the terraced hills of Collio, take a helicopter trip from Tivoli Portopiccolo Sistiana Wellness Resort & Spa, which is set in a private bay of the Gulf of Trieste in the extreme northern part of the Adriatic. Spectacular views unfold from the deep blues of the sea to the rolling green of hillside vineyards, the distant snow-capped peaks of the Alps, and the timeless splendour of Venice. tivolihotels.com
Celebrated for its exceptional white wines, often referred to as Super Whites, the Collio area of Friuli Venezia Giulia in Italy’s far north-east has one of the nation’s loveliest landscapes. In a small crescent-shaped swathe of countryside between the Isonzo and Judrio rivers, around 1500ha of terraced hills, known as ronchi, are tapestried with rows of vines tended by locals who have a deep-rooted respect for their land. The microclimate is perfect, thanks to mild breezes from the Adriatic Sea to the south and protection by mountains from cold northern winds; soils are an ideal balance of clay and sand.
In contrast with current trends for singlevariety wines, the tradition here is for blends: of Friulano (the dominant local grape, which brings structure to the wines), Ribolla Gialla, for fresh acidity, and Malvasia Istriana, which adds spicy aromas.
A small group of purist producers has recently launched a project adopting voluntary regulations to include nothing but these typical varieties and with lengthier ageing. Local producer Edi Keber (edikeber.it), whose vines reach the border with Slovenia and whose family has seen that border change three times in three generations, believes strongly in the land and in local traditions and, together with son Kristian, makes memorable wines with the blend.
A good place to try this and other characterful Collio wines is Enoteca di Cormòns (enotecadicormons.com) run by a local producers’ association in central Cormòns, the area’s winemaking capital.
About the writer
Wine author Sarah Lane runs walking tours of Bologna and beyond. @walkthiswine
Humanity’s relationship with horses runs deep. Some 17,000 years ago, in France’s Lascaux caves, Stone Age people daubed animal paintings using iron oxide pigments and charcoal. Their 6,000 murals depict a rhinoceros, a bear, aurochs and stags — but the majority of the images are horses. The UNESCO-protected caves at Bhimbetka in India show the first riders on their mounts millennia ago. The affinity is almost timeless.
Arabian horses were first depicted in Ancient Egyptian rock art. As Bedouin nomads needed to share their shelters during storms, the breed developed to be good-natured and quick-witted, with a diet that included camel’s milk and dates.
Our empathy with horses stems from the joy of riding. The metronomic trot has a hypnotic effect, especially as your travelling partner lives and breathes beneath you. Your perspective on the environment changes from your loftier position.
Like dogs — the first domesticated animal — horses have an anthropomorphic charm. They can smile, snigger and problem solve, and are never less than forgiving. Hippotherapy, where horses are used to improve the physical and psychological wellbeing of patients, can be traced back to Greek physician and philosopher Hippocrates in 460BC.
Of course, the principal use of horses is for conveyance. In West Africa, where historically ploughs simply didn’t exist, horses carried the warrior aristocracy. One prince named Widiraogo (‘Stallion’) conquered his domain using thundering cavalry. At Africa’s top resorts, including Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, Elewana The Manor at Ngorongoro and Avani Victoria Falls Resort, guests can experience the calm of being transported through nature by this time-honoured means.
Sit back and enjoy the ride.
Luxury Australian outback brand R.M. Williams’ signature, handmade Chelsea-style boot, crafted from durable pull-up leather, with rubber sole and tapered heel is great for riding. US$435 rmwilliams.com.au
Made in England by the world leader in polo kit using premium Malaysian manau cane and Argentine Tipa wood for the cigar-shaped head. Available at La Martina Guards Store in the Guard’s Polo Club Smiths Lawn, Windsor Great Park in Surrey. US$195 tech.lamartina.com
The Royal Stables of Córdoba were built in 1570 on the orders of King Felipe II, a renowned horse lover, who used his pet project to create the famed Spanish – or Andalusian – horse. First bred from Arab stock, these striking horses star alongside expert riders and flamenco dancers in a 70-minute spectacle. Stay at nearby NH Collection Amistad Córdoba. cordobaecuestre.com
ARCO IRIS POLO BELT
Worn by polo players and petiseros worldwide, these are hand-stitched using durable waxed nylon thread on authentic Argentine vegetabletanned tobacco leather and feature various buckles. From US$60 estribos.co
LLAMA PONCHO
Incredibly soft to the touch, every poncho is one-of-a-kind, made using ancestral loom techniques in llama wool, hand-dyed with natural elements in Argentina.
US$400 gaucholife.com
Take to the saddle for a one- hour trek around part of the 1,500-acre, Arabica coffee estate that embraces Elewana The Manor at Ngorongoro in Tanzania, then return to enjoy a sumptuous picnic on the manor’s manicured lawns.
At Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, ride Arabian horses through Abu Dhabi’s flame-coloured Liwa dunes in the Empty Quarter for an unforgettable sunrise or sunset experience with a guide.
Immerse yourself in a world of tranquil gardens, woodlands, waterways and thoroughbred horses at The Irish National Stud & Gardens with Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel
The views across the Danish capital from NH Collection Copenhagen’s ROOF bar and lounge dramatically change from day to night.
AFTER A BUSTLING DAY IN THE CITY, STEP OUT ONTO A ROOFTOP TERRACE TO RELAX, DINE OR SWIM AND DRINK IN THOSE CITY VIEWS
(above) Look down over the tree-lined Font de Canaletes leading to Las Ramblas from NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderón.
(below) Enjoying one of the most enviable locations in Rome, Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel’s rooftop pool has views to match.
The Côte d’Azur is the epitome of relaxed, luxury chic, and the 360˚ views from SEEN by Olivier Rooftop Bar, Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel, take in the city of Nice, the mountains, and the azure Mediterranean Sea.
Enjoy al fresco dining and creative cocktails by Hugo Feijão while the panoramic Portuguese capital glows to life at SEEN Sky Bar, Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa, which has multiple levels to ensconce into.
Located within the walled city, NH
Cartagena Urban Royal is the only hotel to enjoy a spot on the popular Plaza de los Coches, with imposing views of the impressive Torre del Reloj (clock tower) from the rooftop pool and terrace.
Vertigo is the latest addition to nhow Milano’s unconventional set of spaces, and houses a relaxed lounge bar, solarium and a series of orange, glassbottomed plunge pools.
Take in aweinspiring views of the city and the Chao Phraya River – known as the River of Kings –by floating serenely in the infinity pool, or dining Avani+ Riverside Bangkok.
De Rotterdam was conceived as a vertical city on the edge of Rotterdam’s Maas River, and named after one of the original Holland America Line ships, which from 1872 to the late 1970s transported thousands of emigrating Europeans bound for New York from the Wilhelminapier, next to which De Rotterdam is situated.
“Despite its scale and apparent solidity, the building’s shifted blocks create a constantly changing appearance, different from every part of the city,” says awardwinning architect Rem Koolhaas of OMA The vast 162,000m2 building includes nhow Rotterdam, which was the first project where Koolhaas was given the creative freedom to design the interiors as well – where the aim was to achieve a timeless interior design that will adapt to future trends.
A reduced material palette (black, large scale mirrored walls and golden surfaces) was used to complement the exposed concrete structure, along with spotlights, curtains and neon aimed to give the interiors a flexible future-proof palette. This has borne true, as 10 years on from winning ‘Best Hotel Design in 2014’ the interiors remain fresh and contemporary. nhow-hotels.com/en/nhow-rotterdam
Part of the Dioriviera capsule, bracelets are created in seasonal colour combinations such as aquamarine and coral. Handmade tassel cords worn alone or stacked.
US$420 dior.com
PETS ARE WELCOME AT ALL NHOW HOTELS & RESORTS
Marine-grade cotton rope dog leash, hand-dyed and hand-spliced to withstand hundreds of pounds of pull. Whipped ends for durability, and topped and tailed with marine-grade solid Italian bronze bolt snaps. Medium, US$62 foundmyanimal.com
One-of-a-kind swirling raffia bandeau top with adjustable back ties.
US$598 cultgaia.com
Small tote in soft signature
Intrecciato calfskin leather with newspaper print, canvas lined. US$4,400 bottegaveneta.com
The Trail Loop Strap for the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has extra stretch built into the nylon weave. ECG app with high and low heart rates, irregular rhythm detection and low cardio alerts. 49mm titanium case with Trail Loop. US$799 apple.com
Called zhēnglóng in Chinese, traditional double-stacked woven bamboo basket steamers are preferred by chefs to modern counterparts as they distribute heat and absorb moisture, and impart a subtle, earthy flavour.
In Hong Kong, the family-run Tuck Chong Sum Kee are one of the few remaining businesses that still make them by hand, and at their small factory in Sai Ying Pun, they offer demonstrations in traditional bamboo crafting. craftsonpeel.com
With views over the Chao Phraya River, Spice & Barley restaurant at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort features curvaceous woven sculptural elements which add warmth to the space where diners enjoy award-winning modern Chinese cuisine. The restaurant’s show-stopping ‘Non-stop Dim Sum’ includes favourites such as fluffy snow bao and steamed pork ribs, while guests can upgrade to premium and also enjoy abalone, wagyu or lobster dumplings. spiceandbarley.com
Interwoven lacquered wicker picnic basket for two, lined in striped motif jacquard fabric. Fendi Art de la Table accessories including cutlery, glasses, side plates and dinner plates. The basket is completed by a tablecloth with an openwork FF motif and fringed edge. POA. fendi.com
E/W Raffia Holiday tote made from raffia and capra leather with labelled pockets, including a detachable earphones pouch.
US$1,085 anyahindmarch.com
Striped trio-toned natural, black and honey gold raffia-blend bucket hat in collaboration with Paul’s Ibiza. Leather LOEWE calfskin patch.
US$1,100 loewe.com
Intricate woven walls and ceilings emanate a sense of warmth and calmness at the idyllic private island retreat, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort Designed to offer the perfect space for family and group escapes, it offers some of the best views of Dubai from pristine waters 4km off the coast.
Prado slides hand-woven from raffia with interlocking straps and square toes. US$265 castaner.com
Le petit Bambimou mini puffed faux raffia woven bag with engraved lobster clip and leather piping. US$1,060 jacquemus.com
Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost Emirate in the UAE, is becoming a sought-after destination in the Middle East. With its diverse landscape of desert, mountain, coast and fertile plains, the emirate is rich in natural ingredients that have been used in healing traditions for thousands of years. Guests at the recently-opened Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort can indulge in signature spa treatments that make use of these indigenous ingredients.
The Ras Al Khaimah Ritual (60 minutes) enriches the skin with an enveloping full-body scrub made from local dates, salt, and honey sourced from the resort’s own
hives, followed by a tension-melting back, neck and shoulder massage.
For couples seeking a spa journey for two, Mina Al Arab Rose Romance (120 minutes) offers an unforgettable experience. The treatment begins with a rose-ocean sand scrub, followed by a sensual oil massage infused with fragrant Arabian rose oil, and ends with a soak in an aromatic milky bath adorned with candles and rose petals.
After your treatment, you can step out into the spa’s oasis garden, surrounded by serene mangroves set in a private peninsula of golden sands that overlooks lagoon then open ocean, to continue your relaxation.
With more than 550 hotels and resorts across six continents and eight hotel brands, Minor Hotels guests are always spoiled for choice. And we’re always expanding, adding new destinations and experiences every year. Throughout 2023 and 2024 we have added more than 40 hotels and resorts, with more coming in 2025. Here are just some of the incredible new escapes you can enjoy right now.
The majesty of the Maldives
In addition to our existing Anantara and Avani Maldives resorts, guests can now experience the NH and NH Collection brands in this tropical paradise at NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort and NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort. Both offer all the quintessential Maldives experiences that draw so many travellers to this natural wonderland each year – overwater pool villas, romantic dining, incredible snorkelling and diving, and some of the most beautiful sunsets to be found anywhere in the world.
Regal luxury in Jaipur UNESCO World Heritage forts. Mughal palaces. Vibrant bazaars and temples. The city of Jaipur – also known as the ‘Pink City’ – is one of the world’s most spectacular destinations, alive with history and culture. Guests can now experience it all from the luxury of Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur Hotel, Anantara’s first hotel in India. Retreat to a world of heritage-inspired opulence and modern comfort, then venture out and explore everything this captivating city has to offer.
The City of Light beckons with its timeless beauty and epic romance, and now you can explore it from three recently opened NH hotels – NH Paris Champs Elysées, NH Paris Gare de l’Est and NH Paris Opéra Faubourg. Wander the lanes of Montmartre, discover the cultural wonders of the Louvre or explore the banks of the Seine, stopping to sip a café au lait and watch the world go by. This extraordinary city never fails to leave a lasting impression.
With two new destinations, Tivoli Hotels & Resorts brings its distinctive brand of luxury to Italy. See two very different – but equally alluring – sides of this wonderful country. Begin your journey in Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, at Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi Firenze Hotel as you explore the city’s breathtaking art, history and culture. Then travel north-east to the Adriatic coast where seaside serenity and transformative treatments await at Tivoli Portopiccolo Sistiana Wellness Resort & Spa.
The rhythms of Bogotá Avani Royal Zona T Bogotá Hotel is Avani’s first hotel in South America and it’s difficult to think of a more vibrant city destination. Nestled high in the Andes, Colombia’s capital thrums with the energy for which the region is renowned. Spend days exploring its colonial-era architecture, colourful streets, and cultural landmarks like the Gold Museum and Botero Museum. Sample local favourites such as ajiaco soup and arepa at streetside restaurants. Then return to the hotel for stylish comfort and spectacular rooftop views over the city.
All of our hotels, resorts and travel experiences will soon be bookable on a dedicated website under the Minor Hotels brand. A whole new world of hospitality, inspired by what matters most. minorhotels.com
When selecting a hotel, the quality of accommodation, its location, and the benefits of its loyalty programme are three of the most important factors for travellers, according to a recent report.
GHA DISCOVERY is a hotel loyalty programme encompassing 40 brands representing more than 800 hotels in more than 100 countries. We speak to Nicolas le Roux, Executive Vice President –Marketing at Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) about its exclusive Stay Offers.
Exclusive experiences
“The GHA DISCOVERY Stay Offers provide exclusive, tailored experiences,” he says.
“According to our annual Travel Trends surveys conducted with reputable research organisations, value-added and discount offers are among the main expectations of loyalty programme members.”
“The many benefits of Stay Offers reflect the diversity of GHA hotel brands,” he adds.
“Key benefits include exclusive offers, savings on advance bookings, suite offers, complimentary breakfast, and discounts for extended stays. Members can book advantageously while remaining eligible for loyalty programme benefits and earning DISCOVERY Dollars (D$).
“My current highlights include the Suite Spa-tacular at Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel, Laos, where booking a suite entitles you to unlimited spa treatments, as well as daily breakfast, daily minibar refill, and round-trip airport transfers.
“For a family getaway, the Family Beach Escape at Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas includes a Premier Beach Pool Villa for two adults and up to two children with Champagne and special kids’ amenities on arrival, daily breakfast, a dedicated villa host, 6pm check-out and more. Out and about, the offer also includes one 15-minute helicopter flight, a full day of cruising, a half-day tour of the island, and a ziplining adventure.
“And for those who need flexibility, the Best Flexible Rate offer at Anantara Hoi An Resort, Vietnam offers free cancellation up to 45 days before arrival during peak season and seven days year-round, in addition to luxury accommodation with river or garden views and daily breakfast for two people.”
Offers are valid for different dates and new offers are continually added, so bookmark ghadiscovery.com to check for the latest information.
CREATE LASTING FAMILY MEMORIES IN THAILAND, AND GIVE YOUR KIDS SOME SERIOUSLY FUN ME-TIME TOO
Child-friendly Thailand is ideal for a family escape, with hotels and resorts set up to keep children and teens happy and engaged, while offering an abundance of unique cultural and nature-based experiences for the whole family to enjoy.
For a family island escape, halfway between Phuket and Krabi in the middle of Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay, the secluded island of Koh Yao Yai boasts unspoiled beaches, lush jungles, picturesque sunsets and incredible sea life. Here, Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas features one of Thailand’s largest kids’ clubs.
Four- to 12-year-olds can roam free in the large bubble pool and try out the unique vacuum fountain ball shower, clamber up the climbing walls and whizz down the slides.
The programme of free and paid activities changes monthly but can include arts and crafts like batik painting and weaving, movement like dance and yoga, as well as games, recycling projects, mangrove seedling planting, cooking classes, and nature walks.
A dedicated toddler zone provides professional childcare to keep one- to four-year-olds entertained with baby yoga and other activities, in a soft, safe environment. Meanwhile, teenagers have their own building and a restaurant serving all their favourite food and drinks.
With four big waterslides, kids will have hours of fun at the family pool and refuelling at the poolside juice and smoothie bar, before the area turns into an outdoor cinema as the sun sets.
Over at Anantara Spa, you can book in your teens and tweens for glitter mani-pedis, gentle massages, coconut hair treatments, fruity scrubs, skincare facials and bubble bath pamper parties.
Family suites have delightful bunkbeds flanked by stairs to one side, and a slide to the next, and play area.
Other activities for the whole family to enjoy together include s’mores-roasting on the beach, hiking and biking trips around the island, a family pool and treasure hunts.
Wadi trekking with the deft in-house Mountain Guru at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort is one of a trio of guided on-foot tours guests can enjoy which unfold the rugged, beautiful landscapes, and the stories they hold. Wadis, derived from the Arabic word for ‘valley’, are rocky river gorges filled with water, and an age-old cooling space to swim as respite from the sun. They form following the rains, and are a haven for wildlife year round.
Top 100 World’s Finest Suites.
Setting a benchmark for welfare, the award-winning elephant camp champions interaction through inspirational encounters, giving you the freedom to observe elephants in a natural habitat. Accompany them on their daily walk to the river, where they bathe and play, then hop into a Royal Enfield Classic 500 sidecar and venture further afield into Thailand’s fabled Golden Triangle to discover sacred temples and sights, a local market and ancient Lanna sites.
Travel + Leisure
The World’s Best Awards 2023 No.2 Readers’ 5 Favorite Resorts in Southeast Asia.
The more than 300-year-old Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel enjoys the significant title of being the oldest hotel in one of the largest cities in Europe. Former guests include Golden Age painter, Rembrandt, who painted The Night Watch here in 1642, and whom the hotel named a suite in honour of. The modern crispness of the interiors are a welcome juxtaposition to the historic charms of the building itself. From the huge windows you can see the undeniably romantic, yet mechanically named ‘Aluminium Bridge No 222’. This 16th century Aluminiumbrug bridge is one of over 1,200 (some say it’s over 1,700), which criss-cross the city’s numerous canals and waterways. This historic area provides a pleasant walk to some of the best museums, sights and shopping, sitting neatly between Dam and Rembrandt Squares.
Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Top Hotels in The Netherlands.
OF COPENHAGEN, BERLIN, VIENNA AND BUDAPEST PROMISES A BREAK FROM OVER-TOURISM
WORDS BY TRISTAN RUTHERFORD
Copenhagen offers a lesson in how to holiday in the slow lane. Europe’s greenest city has pioneered projects like CopenHill. At the top of the city’s new green energy plant, visitors will find a downhill ski slope, a recreational hiking area and the world’s highest climbing wall. Everything is free. The Danes – often referred to as the happiest nation in the world – are champions at going slow, with 49% of work and school commutes by bicycle.
In any city it’s tempting to race straight in. Many visit Copenhagen to book a table alongside other foreigners at experiential restaurants like Alchemist, which charges €500 per person. Sometimes slow is best. Øens Have is an urban farm beside Copenhagen Contemporary art gallery. Here real Danes go to eat mackerel with pea oil, green asparagus with whipped blue cheese, and fresh-from-the-garden nettle risotto. Mains are €15 each.
Still hungry? Browse gourmet bites with locals at Torvehallerne market, where 80 street kiosks sell vegan cream puffs, jianbing spicy crêpes and deep-fried oysters. Walk off those delights, or pack a pair of loose pants.
Slow travel allows time to indulge in sights like these, with laid-back visitors able to better immerse themselves in local culture. Moreover, packing Copenhagen
(or any other European capital) into a single weekend would require another holiday to get over the first one. Instead of rushing through a tick list, there’s something to be said for going slow.
Especially when the capital’s hotels include NH Collection Copenhagen. (It’s 10 minutes by bike from both Torvehallerne market and Øens Have urban farm.) This five-star hotel could not be more Danish. It was styled by Palle Suenson, a modernist architect who designed furniture and buildings with proportional grace. The listed 1950s building boasts a roof terrace that serves akvavit cocktails laced with red currant juice and dill, alongside crostini topped with Scandinavian lobster. Only in Copenhagen.
Moving on could be jarring, if it wasn’t for the Snälltåget sleeper train, which departs every night except Saturday, from Copenhagen to Berlin. Each private sleeping cabin features crisp linen sheets and picture windows. Thanks to Europe’s latest breed of night trains — which connect Brussels with Vienna, Rotterdam with Prague and Munich with Croatia — the journey becomes a holiday. The Snälltåget arrives in Berlin at 8.47am. Just in time to sample the classic city breakfast of hot schrippe rolls and leberwurst liver sausage.
(opposite page, clockwise)
Nyhavn, 17th-century waterfront and icon of Copenhagen. CopenHill green energy and recreational centre. @copenhilldk Alchemist experiential restaurant. @restaurantalchemist
(above, clockwise) Torvehallerne market; @norcinokbh Royal Lenten buns with a gold chocolate crown; @rokkedysse fresh berries; @torvehallernekbh hot pot crispy herring; @salumeria_cph taco trio.
Now, onto Berlin Berlin rewards slow travellers with more parks, gardens and forested areas than any other European capital. It also hosts Germany’s greatest concentration of cultural sights. At least one day should be spent on Museumsinsel (Museum Island) in the River Spree, a UNESCO World Heritage Site hosting five world-class museums, whose collections span several millennia from Europe and the wider Mediterranean region. Museum Island’s Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery) was commissioned by romanticist royal Frederick William IV of Prussia, who preferred art to statecraft. King Frederick’s love of slow shows. The museum’s Renaissance Revival façade looks like a Roman temple. Inside paintings by Claude Monet hang alongside Berlin realist Adolph Menzel. Menzel’s The Iron Rolling Mill spotlights barefoot drudgery and industrial levels of furnace smoke in 19th century Berlin — while a manager wearing a bowler hat overlooks the Mephistophelian scene. The portrait warns against the age of speed.
When Berliners take a day off work they migrate to the 3,000 lakes that encircle the city. Among the best is Groß Glienicker See, near the suburb of Spandau. Berliners leap into the clear lake waters and cavort on volleyball courts, pedalo boats and sunbathing lawns — Mitteleuropa meets the Mediterranean. During the Cold War, when city streets were divided by the Berlin Wall, half of the lake was in East Germany, the other half in West Germany. East Germans were forbidden from bathing here lest they escape to the capitalist west in their swimming trunks.
No hotel unites the city’s independent spirit like nhow Berlin. On the banks of the River Spree, the funky pink-themed hotel hosts the world’s only guitar room service. Visiting rock stars regularly check in and utilise the hotel’s two professional recording studios. The coolest note is struck by nhow’s Food Truck, which serves a pink döner kebab. More chilli sauce? Replying “alles paletti” — Berlin slang for “all good” — will mark you out as an in-the-know local.
Grand Vienna
It still counts as slow travel to ride Germany’s latest high speed train to the Austrian capital of Vienna. Deutsche Bahn’s ICE trains — or Intercity Express — are white torpedoes that shuttle between European capitals at up to 320kmh. First class passengers receive an armchair seat and access to a buffet car serving monthly specials like linseneintopf sausage stew and vegan currywurst. Unlike flights, these are journeys to be treasured.
Better still, Europe’s trains operate from city centre to city centre. By the time passengers have spent three hours travelling to an airport, checking in, then waiting to board, they could have already arrived.
Like Paris, Vienna’s principal sights are popular for a reason. The gilded allure of Gustav Klimt’s painting The Kiss in the Belvedere Palace will astound any visitor — as well as the 20 viewers crowded behind them. Instead, the Klimt Villa, where the madcap Viennese artist created some of his most vibrant works, is an oasis of calm surrounded by Klimt’s beloved roses. (The bubblegum-pink Klimt Rose cultivar smells gorgeous.)
Travellers delight in Vienna’s slower sights. Many take a break on Donauinsel, a 21km-long island in the River Danube
that features beaches, canoeing clubs and a naturist beach. Vienna’s Central Cemetery makes an uncommonly peaceful pilgrimage spot, especially to the ostentatious graves of city composers Ludwig van Beethoven and Franz Schubert. Wine time? Join locals by crossing the Danube to the bucolic Viennese suburb of Stammersdorf, which hosts vineyards with fabulous city views, or enjoy the vineyards on the opposite side of the Danube at Nussberg
Fine Austrian wines are served at Michelin-starred restaurant EDVARD, which features a local, fresh dining experience involving nasturtiums, pork belly, green strawberries and organic hemp. EDVARD is situated within Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel and was named after the hotel’s designer, Baron Theophil Edvard von Hansen. The architectural genius behind the five-star hotel also designed Vienna’s Musikverein concert hall, whose main hall is undeniably grand yet has an intimacy to its space that draws you into the performances.
And finally, Budapest
It’s a two-and-a-half hour ride from Vienna to Budapest on the Railjet. This modern train has picture windows that overlook the blue Danube and serves Austrian Gösser beer on tap. Like most European railway experiences, the journey offers a sense of arrival, all crowned by Budapest’s ostentatious Keleti station, from where onward services tempt to Transylvania, the Balkans and the Swiss Alps. You could comfortably base yourself here, and take those onward journeys for weeks at a time.
A short walk from Keleti station is Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel. The Belle Époque building opened in 1894 to house the New York Life Insurance Company.
The hotel is now home to the New York Café, known as “the most beautiful café in the world” for its gold chairs and frescoed ceiling. Only-try-here indulgences include paprikaspiced goulash and cognac-laced Esterházy cake. Visitors are soaking up city history by simply dining here.
A literal soaking showcases Budapest
history via the city’s 123 thermal springs. Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of Europe’s largest. Waters rich in calcium and magnesium bubble into 18 hot pools at up to 38°C (100°F). The spa’s newest section is the rooftop palm house. It features a glass ceiling and plants from Budapest’s Botanical Garden. Locals prefer to play chess in the gargantuan outdoor pool. Life in the slow lane has never been hotter.
Easy city-centre connections, comfort and huge windows make European train travel so appealing.
Koh-I-Noor
Picturesque in winter, ride Snälltåget to the Austrian alps, including Mayrhofen, Zell am Ziller and Obergurgl.
Czech brand who created the iconic yellow pencil 1500 have this tri-colour sketching set, with colours blended which bring a new experience to sketching. US$29 koh-i-noor.cz
Holbein
Made in Japan from a mixture of oils, waxes and premium pigments. 7.8mm with 3.8mm core, they are slightly thicker and lovely to hold. Pastel colour set of 12, US$40 holbein.co.jp/en
Fresh warm local pastries at Railjet, whose newest generation of 230kmh trains run between Munich – Innsbruck –Bolzano/Bozen and Verona/Veron in Italy.
K’arst
Innovative, woodless premium artist pencils have a full lead body, offering five times more usable pigment and material than standard pencils. Set of 24, US$72.
Recyclable hardcover A5 notebook. The calcium-carbonate paper is high-quality, sustainable, waterproof and tearresistant, making it an ideal travelling companion. US$28.95 karstgoods.com
© Rosa Wolf, Berlin
The Art of Travel
Alain de Botton takes a tragi-comic look at why the reality of travel seldom matches our daydreams. Matching personal and historic insight, with his insouciant charm, he makes us think about not just where to travel to, but how and why.
US$20 alaindebotton.com
Indie Magazines
If you’re reading this caption, we know you enjoy taking the time to turn pages. Seek out curated collections of fresh-off-the-press, independent magazines along the shelves of Europe’s most treasured stores.
Rosa Wolf, Berlin
Page Five, Prague
Materia Primaa, Porto
Papercut, Stockholm
MagCulture, London
Queen Victoria railroaded the world’s first slow travel route between London and Nice. (Queen Vic owned a private train but didn’t like to travel over 20mph.) After riding the two-hour Eurostar from London to Paris, today’s travellers will find a reinstated sleeper service direct to Nice, the South of France’s most culturally rich city and home to the new Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel.
In summer 2024, The Vietage by Anantara luxury railway added a second carriage – each with just six private booths – and a new route between Quy Nhon and Nha Trang. While rolling through exceptional scenery, enjoy afternoon tea featuring Vietnamese caviar and Champagne, alongside a complimentary head and shoulder massage.
ENJOY A LEISURELY PACE WITH A TRIO OF EXPERIENCES IN ASIA
EXPERIENCE
The ultimate in slow travel, hot-air balloons with their over-sized wicker gondolas (or baskets), glide silently at the pace of the winds. With the early morning sun splaying shadows across misty fields, and the sacred mountain of Phnom Bok proving a dramatic backdrop, you rise above the foliage to reveal the ultimate bird’s-eye view of a timeless Cambodian landscape of lush crops being tended, birds in flight, and buffalo dotted between towering toddy palms.
Anantara Angkor Resort offers this aerial adventure alone, or combined with its Angkor Ultra Luxury package which includes scenic countryside rides by bicycle, quad, Vespa scooter or vintage jeep; kayaking through the floating villages of Tonlé Sap lake; horseback adventures in the wilderness for all levels; golfing at one of the three world-class golf courses nearby; cooking classes with Anantara’s signature Spice Spoons experience; and healing Khmer massage therapies.
EXPERIENCE
A fisherman casts his net into Hoi An’s Thu Bön river, also known as Mother river, from a traditional woven coracle boat in front of Anantara Hoi An Resort, Vietnam. The coracle originated as a single-person, keel-less, flat-bottomed vessel in Wales –where it’s called ‘cwrwgl’ – and in parts of Scotland and Ireland, (called ‘currach’ in Gaelic). As popular as they are lightweight (so easy to carry on the back) and barely disturbing the water under a skilled hand, they are ideal for fishing. Traditionally waterproofed with tar, variations of the coracle are found in India, Tibet, Iran, and Vietnam, where they’ve evolved to suit each river’s particular conditions.
Further along the Thu Bön, at Bay Mau Coconut Forest, enjoy a languid trip in your own coracle, winding through ancient mangroves. The river’s meandering pace extends to the buildings that dot its edge, with a beguiling architectural mix of brightlypainted French colonial, Chinese and Japanese-style façades topped with aged roof tiles and timber balustrades. Retire to watch the sun set over the river at Anantara Hoi An Resort’s Riverside restaurant, which serves modern dishes infused with Vietnamese flair in Viennese-inspired interiors.
Travel + Leisure No.2 Best Upcountry Hotel, Vietnam.
Paper Village
Ban Xang Khong village is known for artisans who create beautiful fabric and paper from the mulberry tree (called ‘Sa’ in Laos). Villagers use mulberry leaves to feed silkworms, then gather silk from their cocoons to weave into fabric; the tree bark is made into Sa paper using labour-intensive, traditional methods which involve the addition of other natural elements such as flowers and leaves.
On early mornings, when the sun has barely tipped over the palm-bristled horizon, a boat trip along Laos’ stretch of the Mekong can feel like gliding through a sepia-toned motion picture. From aboard one of Mekong Kingdom’s river cruisers – its fleet ranges from the intimate, thatch-roofed Gypsy to the sleek, teakwood-trimmed Bohème – northern Laos’ countryside slides past in a succession of scenes seemingly unchanged through time. Buffalos bathe in the shallows as golden Buddhas peer down from their hillside perch. Fishermen still cast their nets in the morning’s orange glow, just like their ancestors have done for generations.
Whether you embark on an epic multinight cruise or a day trip around the natural wonders – the Pak Ou Cave or Kuang Si Waterfall – that dot Luang Prabang’s jungled perimeter, the meandering Mekong forces you to slow down. Vignettes of humble village life and neon-green rice fields work like a rural tonic on hurried souls.
Back on land, Luang Prabang moves at a similarly honeyed pace. From Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel’s doorstep, the town unfurls as a go-slow jumble of French colonial villas and gilded temples, with frothy patches of pink bougainvillea filling the spaces in between. Here, days start with saffron-robed monks collecting alms at dawn (the Avani+ team can help with arranging offerings and almsgiving etiquette) and flow from bicycle rides around the surrounding countryside to long, lazy lunches at one of the French-tinged bistros teetering on the Mekong’s riverbank. When the day drains into darkness, board the hotel’s daybed-dotted Monsoon boat for sundowners and canapés, then graze around the night market before tucking into a dinner of spicy laab salads and jungle curries at Avani+’s Main Street Bar & Grill.
MARVEL AT THE ABUNDANT LIFE UNDER THE SURFACE OF THE MALDIVES’ TURQUOISE WATERS AND EMBRACE ITS CONSERVATION
The Maldives’ vibrant coral reefs are home to more than a thousand species of fish and other marine life. Visitors travel from far and wide to explore the colourful coral gardens teeming with life, and some of those cameos appear in this feature, taken from the pages of Wonders of Kihavah coffee table book. These reefs offer protection to the low-lying islands as their natural defence system, yet are one of the most delicate environments on the planet.
The Maldives’ reef ecology is vulnerable to extreme weather and sudden environmental changes, as well as pollution and the effects of human activity on land and sea. There are also a number of threatened species in the area, so conservation efforts are vital in protecting and preserving the country’s unique ecosystems.
Several marine species and birds are protected by law, and protected areas have been established to ensure the conservation of specific ecosystems and the rich
biodiversity of the country. This includes designated nature reserves in islands of various atolls to protect wetlands and mangroves, and to protect marine areas.
Baa Atoll in the central western part of the Maldives is designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Home to one of the largest groups of coral reefs in the Indian Ocean, the reserve consists of several habitats that support the rich biodiversity of the atoll, including islands, lagoons, seagrass beds, mangrove swamps, reefs, and various reef structures.
The coral reefs at Baa Atoll are home to approximately 250 species of stony and soft corals, 1,200 species of fish, including the vulnerable tawny nurse shark and endangered Napoleon wrasse, and five species of marine turtles, including the endangered green turtle and criticallyendangered hawksbill turtle. Manta rays, whale sharks and numerous seabirds are also regular visitors to this ecological paradise.
A luxury snorkelling and diving retreat Located on a private island within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas boasts a house reef that is home to an incredible 300 species of tropical fish and marine life amongst 130 different types of coral. The reef’s sheer diversity will keep more experienced divers captivated with the promise of a new species to discover each time they visit, while less confident swimmers can snorkel to enjoy the spectacular array of fish that abound at the reef’s crest, only a short swim from the shore.
Fascinating but fragile, coral not only played a key role in the formation of the Maldives, but is also the foundation of the entire reef ecosystem.
(pages 64/65)
Midnight snapper, house reef, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas
(above) Coral ropes contribute to the expansion of the house reef.
Following a devastating coral bleaching event in 2016, Anantara launched the Holistic Approach to Reef Protection (HARP), a joint sustainability project with CRP (Coral Reef Protection) aimed at regenerating damaged coral reefs. The team at Anantara Kihavah have been propagating and transplanting a variety of different species of hard coral onto the island’s reef. With over 10,000 corals grown and planted since 2017, the project is on course to double this number.
This commitment to coral reef restoration is at the heart of Anantara’s marine conservation efforts, and guests at Anantara Kihavah, along with sister properties Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort,
and Naladhu Private Island Maldives, are invited to play their part by joining various reef cleaning and protection activities.
The Coral Adoption Programme is a long-term project that gives guests the opportunity to support the resort’s ongoing reef regeneration activities by planting coral in one of three reef nurseries with the help of the Anantara dive centre team, or by sponsoring a coral rope. Even after leaving the resort, guests can follow the progress of their adopted coral through regular photo updates.
Educate and inspire
Anantara’s resident marine biologist, Oriana Migliaccio, a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer with a PhD in Life and Biomolecular Sciences, has been instrumental in leading
conservation efforts, educating and inspiring guests along the way. As well as coral reef restoration, her initiatives include sea turtle protection and sustainable practices.
Oriana created the Reef Hero PADI speciality, a course designed to educate divers on coral conservation and rehabilitation.
“This course was inspired by my diving students’ desire to positively impact the oceans they love exploring,” she explains.
“Witnessing the adverse effects of marine issues like debris, over-fishing, pollution, and global warming inspired me to create guidelines that can be used by recreational divers to save coral reefs around the world.”
As well as the coral adoption project, guests can take part in several interactive initiatives, such as a weekly marine talk on coral reef and marine life. Marine Biologist
Corner is an open forum for guests to engage with Oriana to deepen their understanding of marine conservation, while the Discovering Marine Biology for Kids sessions will spark children’s curiosity about the underwater world. There is also a regular workshop on repurposing ghost nets: transforming abandoned fishing nets into bracelets, and raising awareness about their impact on marine life.
Collaborating with organisations like the Olive Ridley Project, Manta Trust, and the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme, Oriana’s work also includes a photo-ID programme for studying sea turtles, manta rays, and whale sharks. Guests can become citizen scientists, assisting in data collection during their underwater explorations in the Maldives.
As well as SEA underwater restaurant (page 71), Anantara Kihavah also offers guests the opportunity to stargaze at the overwater SKY observatory and bar through the Maldives’ most powerful telescope. Join the in-house SKY Guru to unfold the constellations and planets while dining on light bites and refreshments.
sustainable luxury island getaway
Anantara’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond marine conservation.
At Anantara Kihavah, every effort has been made to keep the pristine nature of the island intact in keeping with its protected location.
To avoid cutting down trees, the villas have been built around them, and the resort has implemented a number of initiatives designed to create an environmentally sustainable luxury island getaway.
As part of its zero-plastic initiative, Anantara has eliminated all single-use plastics from the island and replaced them with reusable glass vessels or biodegradable containers.
Water management is also an important factor in maintaining the resort’s environmental sustainability. The island
has a processing plant that converts seawater into fresh potable water through desalination and reverse osmosis, while a sewage treatment plant ensures wastewater can be safely used to water the island’s plants.
Organic waste from the resort’s kitchens and gardens is turned into compost and garden mulch, while sawdust and other wood waste from building or carpentry activities is processed in a similar way. All other waste is separated and sent for recycling.
Energy use is another area where Anantara Kihavah has implemented environmentally-friendly initiatives. Energy efficient air-conditioning units are installed in each villa, while the boilers in both the villas and the laundry recycle heat from the AC units and generators. Motion sensor lighting reduces energy consumption in staff
An
Travel + Leisure Luxury
Awards Asia Pacific 2023
voted Anantara Kihavah Maldives
Villas: No.1 Best Resort, Maldives
No.1 Best House Reef, Maldives
No.2 Best Spa, Maldives
No.3 Best Pool, Maldives
In his foreword to Wonders of Kihavah, Founder and Chairman of Minor International, William E. Heinecke, says, “In my 50 years diving in the Maldives, I have seen many magnificent reefs, but none like Kihavah Huravalhi. Every dive is a new adventure, a new discovery, a new wonder... a place where [guests] can reconnect with themselves and nature’s healing energies. I knew I wanted an undersea restaurant for non-divers to see the remarkable diversity.”
accommodation areas, and the resort has installed a solar energy system that converts the abundant sunlight into clean electricity.
This approach is not a hand-picked example, as the ethos extends across the Maldives, including the family-friendly Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort (named Best Dive Resort at the TTM Maldives Awards 2024), and the seashell-shaped private island NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, which is a deep atoll with superb diving and sports fishing.
Anantara’s parent company Minor Hotels has made significant progress towards achieving its pledge of net zero carbon emissions by 2050 across its entire portfolio. With more than 550 hotels, resorts and residences in 56 countries, the company has achieved year-on-year reductions in energy, carbon emission and water intensities, while cutting its organic waste to landfill by more than a quarter, according to its latest annual sustainability report.
Minor International, the parent company of Minor Hotels, has been recognised by S&P Global as the topperforming hotel operator, and second-best overall hotel company, in its Sustainability Yearbook 2024
The very essence of an Anantara experience is unique, immersive, and deeply connected to the local environment. Luxury and conservation coexist in the Maldives’ delicate ecosystem, and visitors have the unique opportunity to experience an unforgettable stay in paradise while actively contributing to the island’s preservation, ensuring that its wonder and beauty endures for future generations of residents and travellers to come.
NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort has a crystal clear lagoon to explore.
“Having personally dived in all the oceans of the world and dedicated my life to ocean research and conservation, I can confidently say that Anantara Kihavah represents the pinnacle of excellence,” says Dr Gregory Stone, Chair of Pole to Pole Conservation, in one of three forewords to this unique book.
“Through the pages of this book, you will witness the remarkable achievements of this resort and the collective efforts to protect and preserve our oceans.” Physical copies are exclusively available to resort guests. It can also be enjoyed online. anantara.com/ kihavah-maldives/ reef-book
Voted the Best House Reef in the Maldives in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023, Kihavah’s reef is a destination dive like no other. The Yellow Wall takes its name from the predominantly golden and yellow colonies of soft corals that cover its surface. Descending to a depth of more than 30m, each overhang provides a playground for a variety of marine life, from intensely colourful schools of fish to rare hawksbill turtles.
Snorkelling re-invented. Enjoy a huge field of vision and no more fogging thanks to TUSA’s patented air circulation technology. The Full Face Snorkelling Mask’s innovative design allows for you to breathe through your nose, leaving you to say ‘wow’ as often as you like, as well as ridding the experience of an aching jaw and biting discomfort. US$159 tusa.com
The Aquis Date Upcycle Calibre 400 is a physical manifestation of the brand’s commitment to conservation. Already a carbon-neutral company, Oris makes the watch’s dial from recycled PET plastic recovered from the oceans, producing colourful, random patterns ensuring each is unique. 41.5mm with stainless steel strap. US$2,500 oris.ch
In the deeper waters of Baa Atoll, spinner and bottlenose dolphins, black- and white-tipped reef sharks, nurse sharks and pilot whales can all regularly be spotted around Hanifaru Bay.
However, the most spectacular sight is the large gathering of manta rays that takes place from May to November each year, when Anantara guests have the opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants of the sea. With wing spans up to several metres across, they often gather in their hundreds to feed on small fish, plankton and crustaceans.
BY RICHARD SHPUNTOFF
Ask an Argentine where the best beef is from, or the best wine, or who are the most beautiful people, or who is the best footballer in the world, and it’s resounding. As famed for their big steaks as their huge self-confidence, they are, however, just as generous in spirit.
While Argentines love to eulogise about their Malbec, yerba mate, empanadas and, of course, their slow-grilled steaks, what they love even more is to share these pleasures with foreigners and to adopt everyone into the Argentine community. Sit down to sip the traditional herbal tea mate with a local and they will wink and declare, “¡Ya sos un argentino más!” (“Now, you have become yet another one of us!”).
With that in mind, here are a few notes to help you get ready for eating out on your next trip to Argentina so you too can become yet another one of them! We start, of course, with the beef.
Conquistadors to cows
No article about Argentine cuisine would be complete without mentioning the staple of the population’s diet: beef. What many people don’t know is that the history behind this goes all the way back to 1493 and the second voyage of Christopher Columbus. As part of his financing scheme for that voyage, the Italian navigator proposed setting up a cattle industry in the new territories that he had claimed for Spain. Looking for investors, Columbus wrote, “Hispaniola (modern day Haiti and the Dominican Republic) is wonderful… the plains and the countryside and the lands so beautiful and thick to plant and sow, to raise livestock of all kinds…”
Columbus knew what he was talking about; cattle farming became a very viable business and a key to the conquest and colonisation of the New World. By 1555, a little over six decades later, the first cows –a herd of seven – and a bull were sent to the
With views overlooking the business district,
Georgian-style
continental mainland and, just one year later, the cattle went forth to the River Plate region. Their descendants eventually became the foundation of the Argentine economy and the centrepiece of a new nation’s gastronomy.
So what makes Argentina’s steakhouses so special today? The answer is that Argentines have remained faithful to the traditions that date back to centuries of open field grazing and cooking under the most rudimentary conditions.
The first great asadores (grill masters) of Argentina were the gauchos. Like their pars in the north, the cowboys, they were rough
and ready labourers, expert horsemen who lived a semi-nomadic life. Spending weeks at a time in the grasslands hunting cows and bulls to sell the hides in the city, which were later exported to Europe, the gauchos learned to prepare the meat in rudimentary fire pits with, at most, salt for seasoning.
None other than Charles Darwin spent time with them on his trip in 1832, writing in his journal: “…an unfortunate cow was spied by the lynx-eyed Gauchos, who set off in full chase, and in a few minutes dragged her in with their lazos, and slaughtered her. We here had the four necessaires of life ‘en el
Inaugurated in 1926 by the then president of Argentina, Marcelo Torcuato de Alvear, NH Collection Buenos Aires Jousten is one of the most historical hotels in the city and has been frequented by the likes of President Perón and Carlos Gardel, who is celebrated in Latin America for his love of everything tango.
campo,’ – pasture for the horses, water (only a muddy puddle), meat and firewood.”
Today’s parrillas (the iron grill for barbecuing) might be more modern than the gaucho pits, and the top chefs may have perfected the calculations of heat and time for cooking more than 19 cuts of beef, but the art has not changed and neither have the ingredients: meat, fire, salt. Drizzle over generous spoons of hand-chopped Argentine chimichurri (made with fresh parsley, oregano, cilantro, garlic, shallots, olive oil and red wine vinegar).
For top quality meat, you can try some
of Buenos Aires’ famous parrillas (steak houses, which, yes, is the name of the grill as well) such as Don Julio, La Brigada and La Cabrera. Successful branded restaurant chains in popular areas do not always equate to tourist traps – their authentic food and atmosphere lives up to any hype – but they can be slightly more expensive than others.
As alternatives, just 15 minutes’ walk from NH Collection Buenos Aires Lancaster, and five minutes from NH Collection Buenos Aires Jousten, you can eat the same quality beef and rub elbows with upper class porteños (people of Buenos Aires)
“THE ART HAS NOT CHANGED AND NEITHER HAVE THE INGREDIENTS: MEAT, FIRE, SALT.”
at Cabaña las Lilas, as well as the more middle-class Parrilla Peña, which is a local favourite and less than five minutes’ drive from the Lancaster
If you truly want the country experience of a three-hour asado, it is worth making a day of it and going to an estancia (ranch) outside the city where modern day gauchos (genuine descendants of the originals) will grill your meat in front of you on open fire pits, and even take you horseback riding if you like. El Ombú and La Bamba, both two hours from Buenos Aires in the town of San Antonio de Areco, are great options.
“WHAT ARGENTINES LOVE... IS TO SHARE THESE PLEASURES WITH FOREIGNERS AND TO ADOPT EVERYONE INTO THEIR COMMUNITY.”
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Pioneer winemaker, François Lurton, built Bodega Piedra Negra in the Uco Valley in the foothills of the Andes Cordillera. The high altitude, poor gravelly alluvial soil is reminiscent of France’s Pessac-Léognan – famed for its Bordeaux wines – and has proven an excellent location.
Visit the cellar, and enjoy the panoramic views with a glass of wine before embarking on a private tour.
bodegapiedranegra.com
Then came the grapes If beef is the food that is most associated with Argentina, Malbec wine is without a doubt the drink. And like the cows, the Malbec grape was imported from Europe.
Specifically, it was in Santiago, Chile, in 1852, that Domingo Sarmiento – who would become president of Argentina 16 years later – met Michel Aimé Pouget, a French expert in grape varieties. Sarmiento managed to convince the governor of Mendoza to invite Pouget to start a school of agronomy with a focus on wine-making, marking the beginning of Argentina’s now booming wine industry.
Interestingly, Malbec was not considered an important grape in France and was often used for blending. However, the soil and climatic conditions of the Cuyo region of Argentina, including of course Mendoza, were ideal for developing a balanced, fruit-forward, jammy wine that, conveniently, holds its own with the strong flavour of beef – though when properly aged in oak barrels, Malbec is definitely worth savouring on its own!
The best place to experience Malbec is at a bodega in Mendoza, but, if you can’t make it there on your trip, Tierra Mendocina in the Buenos Aires neighbourhood of San Telmo is the next best thing. Here, Flavio Quiles and his wife, Tierra Mendocina, offer a variety of tastings that can give you a great introduction and overview of Argentine wines, including Catena Zapata, Zuccardi, and Rutini. And a few doors down from Flavio’s shop, on Calle Carlos Calvo, is a tiny, charming wine bar called Nilson run by sommelier Samantha Nilson and her husband Sergio, where you can sit back and relax over a glass while enjoying the view of street life in the city’s historic district.
Personally, I recommend trying a Torrontés, a white wine that has a sweet floral nose but is surprisingly dry to the taste. Torrontés is a hybrid grape and the only variety that is actually indigenous to Argentina.
Argentinian wines, including Malbec and Torrontés take centre stage at NH Collection Buenos Aires Crillón, located in the exclusive Retiro area, and a few streets from the famed Nueve de Julio Avenue, the waterfront of the Puerto Madero Quarter, and the finest boutiques at Galerías Pacífico and La Recoleta
The most Argentine of drinks Yerba mate or mate (pronounced “MAH-tay”) has such a long history that it is not even fair to call it an Argentine beverage. The Guaraní people were drinking it for centuries before the arrival of Columbus, and the naming of the region as Argentina.
Mate, a bitter, caffeinated infusion from a plant in the holly family, was traditionally drunk by the Guaraní as a hot beverage from a dried-out squash gourd. The Jesuits who worked converting the Guaraní to Christianity added the bombilla, a metal straw with a filtered tip, as a way of drinking mate without getting a mouthful of leaves and twigs.
For foreigners, drinking mate (especially in a post-Covid world) can be a disturbing experience as it is a shared drink: everyone drinks from the same gourd, through the same straw! For Argentines, sharing mate is not just a matter of getting your caffeine on; it’s also a way of socialising.
Given the intimate nature of the social ritual associated with the beverage, it is not something you can order in a café or restaurant. Fortunately, Matea, Aromas y Sabores in Recoleta not only offers you the possibility of trying mate, but they also do tastings … and even though it is not traditional, they do offer foreigners the option of having their own individual mates so they don’t have to drink from the same gourd and bombilla.
While Buenos Aires specialises in a mix of Mediterranean cuisines influenced by European immigration during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the most traditional dishes come from the north.
No trip to Buenos Aires is complete without having at least one empanada, a savoury turnover that is traditionally filled with chopped beef but can also be filled with all sorts of tasty offerings ranging from creamed corn (humita) to chicken, as well as ham and cheese. And you can order them either fried or baked.
Our final classic northern dish is the one-pot locro, a great winter stew full of butternut squash, white corn and potato along with fatty meats that are simmered until they melt.
As turkey is ubiquitous in the United States during Thanksgiving, locro is a dish which appears on every menu during Semana de Mayo (May Week), and in particular 25 May which celebrates the formation of the first independent Argentine government in 1810. It’s a dish filled with tradition and passion, and unmissable, especially with your newfound Argentine dining companions.
“¡Ya sos un argentino más!”
The local variation is made for sharing and differentiated by the unmistakable aroma of fried chorizo, and is preferably served slightly runny to be mopped up with bread.
Named after the sweet, fortified wine from Sicily which is used to enrich Argentine beef fillets, with the dish otherwise retaining its original vegetable base from 20th century Sicilian immigrants.
The home-cooked Spanish mariscada enjoys regional variation in Argentina. A classic tavern dish where fresh coastal fish take centre stage, notably found in the Basque and Galician communities.
Unique to Argentina is helado (ice cream) served in cucuruchos (ice cream cones). The silky, soft, yet dense texture sits between gelato and ice cream. Podio have been making it for more than 40 years.
Feijoada is such a typical and celebrated dish, such a central part of Brazilian culture, that the singer-songwriter Chico Buarque even wrote a song about it! He even goes so far as to give a little “recipe” in the lyrics: “Toss the Portuguese sausage, jerked beef, bacon into the pot / And let us add some more water to the beans.”
Originally a kind of poor man’s stew, the base is black beans, to which is added a combination of salted pork and / or beef, such as bacon, ribs and trimmings, and always at least two kinds of sausage. It is eaten over rice, and usually with a side of fried collard greens and orange slices.
While, of course, it can be ordered at most restaurants all over the country such as Rubaiyat Faria Lima and Bolinha, the best way to have feijoada is on a Saturday at someone’s home. The dish takes hours to prepare and they say that to savour its richness, it should take almost as long to eat.
Mexicans love tacos and they love to eat them on the street, so not surprisingly Mexico City has more than 11,000 street side taco stands. However, only one was given a star by the Michelin guide, citing their combination of thin sliced, unseasoned beef and freshly made corn tortillas as “elemental and pure”.
Taquería El Califa de León was founded by Juan Hernández González in 1968 and he named it after his close friend, the matador El Califa de León (“the Caliph of León”), born Rodolfo Gaona in León de los Aldamas. Grill master Arturo Rivera Martínez, who was awarded an official Michelin chef’s jacket, has been working there for 11 years and claims there is no “secret” other than that their operation is simple offering only four kinds of tacos and their ingredients are always fresh. Show up early and be prepared to wait. It’s worth it!
There are five NH hotels in the city to enjoy, with the centrally placed Florida at the business heart; both the Latino and Tango located very close to the iconic Obelisk and vibrant restaurant and theatre district, Avenida Corrientes; with a 1930s art deco façade, NH Buenos Aires City, near to the Plaza de Mayo; and NH Buenos Aires 9 de Julio, located on its namesake biggest avenue in the world.
Pioneers of ‘farm to plate’, Rubaiyat restaurants can be found across Brazil in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, and further afield in Madrid, Spain, and Santiago, Chile. In Argentina, their Cabaña Las Lilas is located in the heart of Puerto Madero Waterfront, Buenos Aires, a short walk from NH Collection Jousten, and a few minutes from the other three NH Collection hotels
in Buenos Aires; the Crillón, Lancaster, and Histórico
In São Paulo, stop by their mouthwatering delicatessen, Empório Figueira, where a vast fig tree grows in the middle of the space, from store front to kitchen, and curate your own hamper from all manner of beautifully prepared and packaged fresh foods.
The Rubaiyat Farm sits in the ranchlands of Dourados, Brazil, in the biodiverse province of Mato Grosso do Sul, which borders Bolivia and Paraguay. There, for more than 80 years, they’ve been focused on the creation of the Brangus breed, a mixture between the Aberdeen-Angus, of Scottish origin, and the Indian Brahman. gruporubaiyat.com
Celebrate the charm of yesteryear aboard the luxurious 42-metre, 13-cabin Bohēme, sailing down the Mekong in timeless style. Days drift by with excursions to remote villages, temples, and waterfalls, followed by cocktails at sunset and dinner parties under the stars. Unwind in the comfort of your modern suite, enjoying uninterrupted views of the mountains and village life as you drift peacefully downriver.
INVEST IN YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING WITH THESE LEADING SPA
(top) Mindful Meditation experience in the Golden Triangle, guided by a respected Buddhist monk – Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Thailand.
(bottom) Calming
Andaman Sea views at the new purpose-built medical wellness facility, Layan Life by Anantara, Phuket.
Wellness travel is surging in popularity, as an increasing number of travellers are looking for more than just relaxation on their holidays, choosing instead to invest in their health and wellbeing while they’re away. Whether it’s a mindfulness retreat offering sound baths, Tai Chi and yoga, or a medical spa experience with a personalised treatment plan, these five spa trends promise to leave you feeling rejuvenated and revitalised long after you arrive home.
In today’s fast-paced world, where our minds are constantly bombarded with notifications and responsibilities, more travellers are seeking holidays that offer opportunities to truly unplug and unwind.
More than just leaving your phone in your room, a mindfulness break is about reconnecting with yourself. Where, instead of coffee and a commute, the day begins with a deep breath and a gentle flow of Tai Chi.
Morning yoga sessions invite guests to stretch and breathe, aligning the body and mind with the day’s slower rhythm. Meditation classes offer moments of introspection and clarity, helping you find stillness in a chaotic inner and outer world, while sound baths can assist in reaching a meditative state, washing away stress and tension.
Travellers are craving peaceful sanctuaries nestled in nature, surrounded by mountains, forests, or oceans, where the natural beauty serves as a backdrop for quiet
reflection, encouraging a deeper connection with the present moment. Destinations that are designed to help you slow down, turn inward, and cultivate a sense of inner peace.
At Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, you can take part in the Morning Wellness experience, rising at daybreak to take part in the Buddhist tradition of alms offering before heading out to a nearby park to energise with a 45-minute session of Qigong, meditation, yoga or pranayama, guided by a wellness practitioner. Afterwards, you can savour a nutritious breakfast hamper before heading back to the hotel to indulge in a healing spa treatment.
For many, a mindfulness retreat is a journey towards greater self-awareness and emotional wellbeing. It’s about making time to listen to your body, recalibrating, and returning to everyday life with a renewed sense of calm and purpose.
Wellbeing retreats
For a deeper connection to self, many travellers are choosing wellbeing retreats, spending two or more days fully immersed in healing practices and holistic therapies.
Nurturing mind, body, and spirit, these retreats take you on a transformative journey towards physical balance and emotional clarity. Designed to help you release the energy blockages and toxins that accumulate through everyday life through a curated blend of meditation, yoga, spa treatments, and nutritious cuisine, each day takes you a step closer to a physical, mental and emotional reset.
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Local sea salt hammam treatment at Anantara Sahara Tozeur Resort & Villas, Tunisia.
Shirodhara Ritual, whose Ayurvedic benefits are perfect for restoring physical, mental, energetic and emotional wellbeing. Available in a number of Anantara Spas, including Sri Lanka, Koh Samui, and Tivoli Mofarrej São Paulo Hotel
Diocletian ritual massage at Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel spa, Italy.
Bespoke IV treatment at Layan Life by Anantara, Phuket, Thailand.
In the tranquil setting of a wellness resort, surrounded by nature, you can find the space to pause, breathe, and reflect. This holistic approach ensures that you leave not only feeling rejuvenated but also equipped with the tools to maintain this newfound balance amid life’s hectic demands.
At Anantara Angkor Resort in Cambodia, the Rebalance retreat, for example, offers a five-day journey into serenity. This carefully designed experience invites guests to rediscover a sense of calm and reinvigorate the body and mind. Through luxurious spa treatments, skilled therapists use techniques that soothe muscles and balance the body’s energy. These treatments are complemented by a menu of nutritious drinks that nourish from within, supporting overall wellness.
With various resort properties offering their own unique take on health and relaxation through their own wellness programmes, guests can embark on personalised single and multi-day wellness journeys that respect local traditions and ingredients.
Local ingredients
As well as connection to the self, there is also a growing interest in connection to the culture and natural beauty of a destination. Indigenous ingredients in spa treatments offer a unique and authentic way to experience the healing traditions of different cultures.
Whether it’s the hydrating qualities of Damask roses in Oman, the antiinflammatory benefits of date seed oil in Dubai, or the skin-nourishing properties of coconuts in the Maldives, these local ingredients are revered for their healing properties and have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and beauty rituals.
From a sustainability perspective, they are often sourced from small, local producers, supporting the community and ensuring the preservation of age-old practices.
When incorporated into spa treatments, these ingredients invite you into a timehonoured ritual, bridging the gap between past and present. It’s a way to honour the natural elements of the earth while enjoying
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Couple’s therapy room at the overwater spa, which is the Maldives’ only Cocoon Medical Spa, featuring restorative facials, Vitamin IV Infusions and other detoxification therapies at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, Maldives.
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Liquid nitrogen free, high performance, -110˚C cryogenic chamber at Layan Life by Anantara, Phuket, Thailand.
the luxurious benefits they offer, leaving you feeling rejuvenated, grounded, and connected to the destination.
The Signature Ceylon Retreat at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort is a unique Ceylon tea-inspired spa journey that encapsulates Sri Lanka’s finest elixirs and wellness practices. Powerful antioxidants are released during the black tea and lime foot scrub, and full-body green tea and salt scrub, which stimulate blood flow. A full-body Ayurvedic Marma Abhyanga massage and Ceylon Signature Facial complete the treatment.
On the topic of supplements, Nootropics, or cognitive enhancers, continue to rise in popularity. Their benefits include improved mental clarity, focus, and cognitive function. Ginseng, gingko biloba, ashwagandha, and l-theanine (found in green tea) are among the list of nootropics, while various mushrooms including chaga, cordyceps, lion’s mane, and reishi also make the grade.
Nootropics also extend to food, highlighting the importance of diet in maintaining mental and physical health.
Foods rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals are not only beneficial for the body but can also enhance cognitive function. For example, blueberries are rich in antioxidants that protect the brain from oxidative stress, while nuts and seeds, dark chocolate, and leafy greens are other examples of nootropic-rich foods that can easily be incorporated into a balanced diet.
Oftentimes, hotels offering wellness packages will have healthy cuisine available as part of the wellness experience.
In recent years, many destination hotel spas have expanded their wellness offerings to include an array of medical wellness options. This trend is driven by a growing desire among travellers for personalised and preventative health care. One of the key offerings in these modern spas is the personalised health assessments, providing a detailed understanding of each guest’s unique needs. These assessments often include diagnostic tools like blood tests and body bioimpedance analysis, creating a foundation for tailored wellness plans.
Among the standout treatments are
Fragrance has the ability to change our mood and evoke different emotions by triggering the release of happy hormones. Jasmine, orchid and frangipani are three ubiquitous scents due to their alluring aroma and their calming and healing properties.
Jasmine’s sweet scent is said to boost mood, as well as reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. It can help balance moisture and improve skin irritations.
Orchid’s uplifting scent boosts mental alertness and has hydrating and anti-ageing properties, while frangipani is an exotic floral scent that can help calm the mind and release negative emotions. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can normalise oily skin.
The World Spa Awards celebrates and rewards excellence in spa and wellness tourism. At the end of 2023, industry experts and consumers voted Anantara their winners in several different categories, including Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort (above) as Oman’s Best Wellness Retreat, Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort (right) as Mozambique’s Best Resort Spa, Anantara Sahara Tozeur Resort & Villas as Tunisia’s Best Hotel Spa, and Anantara Kalutara Resort (below) as Sri Lanka’s Best Resort Spa.
Be
out
revitalising Vitamin IV infusion therapies, which have become increasingly popular for their ability to deliver nutrients directly into the bloodstream. These therapies are designed to boost energy levels, enhance immunity, combat the effects of jet lag and more, offering a quick and effective way to feel better.
At Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, you can get an epigenetic test, a non-intrusive test that analyses the roots of your hair, providing a detailed report about your body’s level of nutrients, vitamins, essential amino acids, minerals, fatty acids, antioxidants, and contaminants. The report also highlights which nutritional and environmental factors are impacting your body’s cells, while also offering personalised lifestyle and diet recommendations to optimise your health.
Meanwhile, Anantara Layan Phuket Resort has added a comprehensive, purposebuilt, split-level medical wellness facility named Layan Life by Anantara
Offering modern medical consultations as well as traditional Thai ‘rajasamnak’ healing, the luxury resort’s approach to
wellness is centred around the four elements of Thai traditional medicine; earth, water, wind and fire. Treatments are tailored to create a personalised and immersive journey matching guests’ goals, such as weight management, de-stress, fitness and anti-ageing.
Layan Life by Anantara offers three- to ten-day programmes which include medical assessments and diagnostics, tailored nutrition and guided fitness regimes created by doctors and Thai medicinal experts.
Being active can form an integral part of any wellness journey, and aside from the gymnasium and hydro therapies, adventure awaits in multiple forms, including yoga and clay studios, Ziplining, Muay Thai ring and climbing wall.
Holidays are a great way to break away from routine, but there are more options than ever to use them to kickstart and embrace a lifestyle that promotes long-term wellness. As you plan your next escape, consider these transformative trends to enrich your stay and return home feeling not just rested, but truly refreshed.
Uluwatu stands on the southern tip of Bali, and enjoys some of the world’s best breaks for experienced surfers, first ridden by a film crew shooting the 1971 surf classic, Morning of the Earth. While surfing made the island famous for tourists, the rich culture, intricate temples, spa treatments, diverse cuisine and local and international shopping have broadened its global appeal. Catch one of those waves with the Rip Curl School of Surf, sail or cruise Sanur’s coastline, or dive into pristine waters to see manta rays and mola mola at the Bukit Peninsula.
Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort sits perched on the cliffs, with Botol Biru Bar & Grill serving the best of land and sea, while the all day 360 Rooftop offers international and Indonesian dishes including Balinese crispy duck, fresh seafood served with sambal, and braised baby pork ribs. For a more intimate touch, book a private chef who will fire up the in-villa barbecue, to create an array of Balinese specials, and catch of the day from local fishermen, such as Lombok clams, barramundi, and Jimbaran prawns, while the sun shimmers off the top of the surf breaks.
There’s no need to reinvent the wheel. We can help you put your own spin on it.