The Hot Escape

The Wanderlust

An edit of exceptional global hotels for the ultimate winter escape

WORDS: OLIVIA MORRIS

The Hot Escape

Amanyara – Turks & Caicos Islands THE WHY

Amanyara is located amongst the exclusive islands of Turks & Caicos. Ensuring optimum quiet and privacy for a getaway, this luxury resort boasts half a mile of white sand beaches and is hidden amongst the shores of an 18,000-acre nature reserve. The entire resort is made up of individual pavilions and threeto-six-bedroom villas guaranteeing optimal privacy during a holiday. THE MUST-TRY

Discover what lies in the azure waters of the Turks & Caicos Islands at Amanyara at the Nature Discovery Centre for an insight into the beauty and balance of the undersea ecosystem. For those looking to relax their mind, body and soul, immerse yourself in one of the resort’s wellness programmes. aman.com/resorts/amanyara

One&Only Cape Town – South Africa THE WHY

Nestled in the capital of South Africa lies the One&Only Cape Town. The waterfront hotel is surrounded by the iconic scenery of Cape Town’s well-known landmarks, with Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Devil’s Peak, in the background. The luxury resort boasts 360-degree views of Cape Town, so whether you opt for a waterfront room or mountain-view room, there will always be exquisite scenery waiting to be looked at in awe. THE MUST-TRY

There’s a plethora of activities on offer at the One&Only Cape Town including whale-watching, exploring the region’s role in winemaking, discovering the marine wildlife, relaxing by the pool or indulging in a spa treatment. However, to get the very best experience of Cape Town, opt for one of the resort’s guided hiking tours up Table Mountain where you’ll be guided through the most scenic routes as you increase your altitude to be able to see the extraordinary views of the South African capital city. oneandonlyresorts.com/ cape-town

Anantara Kihavah – Maldives THE WHY

Anantara Kihavah is one of the most exclusive resorts in the Maldives, which was once a place where Arab traders sailing to the Far East took shelter. En-

From left: Viceroy Riviera Maya – Playa del Carmen, Mexico; Amanyara – Turks & Caicos Islands; Anantara Kihavah – Maldives suring the nature of the island is maintained, the villas have been constructed without a single tree being moved. Each individual villa has its own private pool, with some also having direct beach access. THE MUST-TRY

When you think of the Maldives you think of complete serenity and relaxation. To reach optimum levels of Zen, indulge in one of the resort’s luxurious spa treatments in one of their six over water treatment suites. For the ultimate rejuvenation, opt for one of the spa’s three-day treatments. The three-day Anantara Recovery treatment will restore

IMAGES: SUPPLIED vital energy and radiant beauty with an unwinding food ritual, herbal steam, essence white coconut scrub and stress release massage on day one; and awaken foot ritual and traditional Thai massage on day two; and finally, a rejuvenate foot ritual, Anantara signature facial and oriental foot massage on day three. anantara.com/en/kihavahmaldives

Viceroy Riviera Maya – Playa del Carmen, Mexico THE WHY

Escape to the warm climes of Southern Mexico in the tranquil spot of Playa del Carmen at the luxurious Viceroy Riviera Maya resort. This exclusive resort consists of 41 villas looking out on the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Complete with its own white sandy beach and a brand-new pool deck with luxe poolside cabanas, the hotel encourages all of its guests to soak up the sun in style. THE MUST-TRY

The list of things to do at the resort are endless. Those who are adventurous opt for diving, windsurfing or hiking. For those wanting to go further afield, head out into the rainforests surrounding Viceroy Riviera Maya on horseback or ATV riding. Meanwhile, guests seeking to relax and unwind, there’s the luxury spa where you can indulge in a rejuvenating treatment. viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/ riviera-maya

Park Hyatt Sydney – Australia THE WHY

Now that Australia has officially opened its borders, it’s the ideal time to visit the country’s most famous city, Sydney. To capture the true essence of the city, stay in the heart of Sydney Harbour at the Park Hyatt. With sweeping views of the city and a prime view of the iconic Opera House, this luxury hotel offers everything you need and more for a five-star Sydney stay. THE MUST-TRY

As the hotel is in the heart of Sydney, the entire city is right on your doorstep. Explore Sydney Harbour by ferry, take a trip to the famous Bondi Beach, visit the Sydney Opera House and more. With the days filled with plenty to do in Australia’s most famous city, end it on a high note by dining waterfront with uninterrupted views of the Sydney Opera House and harbour. hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/ australia/park-hyatt-sydney