WAYFARER ISSUE SEVEN 2025

We recommend the front row.

Namale Resort & Spa,Savusavu

In this issue. FEATURES

MASTER OF KIYOMIZU

In the heart of Kyoto’s incredible Kiyomizu is the Hotel Seiryu

When it comes to luxurious resort experiences, high up on the list is Velaa Private Island in the Maldives

60 WONDER OF VELI

Following upgrades across Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, the property has never looked better

LONDON CALLING

The hotel scene in the British capital is thriving and we go inside several hot properties

OF PARIS

We check in to three of Paris’ leading hotels led by legendary Le Meurice

100

ORCHARD DELIGHTS

Singapore’s Orchard district has been undergoing an incredible hotel renaissance of late

110

WILD CEYLON

For years, Sri Lanka has been one of the world’s most underrated destinations

114

CALIFORNIA COOL

Five luxury hotels that need to be on your Los Angeles list

126

RUSTIC LUXURY

Soneva Kiri offers a Thailand escape that’s barefoot luxury at its finest

130

BUSINESS LEADERS

Reviews of six of the world’s best Business Class cabins

Why Park City in Utah has become America’s hottest winter playground

Overwater style at Anantara Veli Maldives (p60)

Luxury travel is booming

TONS OF BONUS VIDEO CONTENT!

digital issue of Wayfarer magazine is loaded-up with over 12 videos. Look for the TV icon throughout the digital magazine and a video will popup. For more videos and destination guides to cities across the world, visit wayfarer.travel

Editor-In-Chief

JAMES WILKINSON james@wayfarer.travel

Graphic Designer

RYAN VIZCARRA ryanv@intermedia.com.au

Whether it’s sitting in a full Business Class cabin onboard Qantas or watching the check-ins at

The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, there has been a key underlying travel trend in 2025 –luxury travel is booming.

As we have seen since the end of 2021, the demand for luxury travel has continued to rise and people across the globe have been willing to pay more for a better seat on an aircraft or a nicer hotel room.

The demand for luxury is coming alongside growth for premium economy cabins on airlines and more lifestyle hotels popping up across the globe in a segment that has become ‘luxury light’.

The Premium Economy offerings globally are now better than they have ever been – check out our Cathay Pacific (p22) and Singapore Airlines (p26) reviews in this issue – while the lifestyle segment for hotels is on a global upswing.

I recently caught up with Hilton’s President and CEO, Chris Nassetta in New York City and we had this exact chat about the luxury and lifestyle segments creating so much buzz.

With recent openings in Paris, Cape Town, Dallas, Osaka, Costa Rica, Jordan and more, Hilton’s luxury and lifestyle division has now opened its 1,000th hotel globally and Nassetta told me that was on the back of a record year of growth for Hilton, punctuated by strategic

Managing Director

SIMON GROVER

Production Manager

JACQUI COOPER jacqui@intermedia.com.au

partnerships, acquisitions and nearly 100,000 rooms added to the company’s global portfolio.

“Our ultimate goal is to serve travellers for any stay occasion, anywhere in the world they want to be,” he said. “Our luxury and lifestyle portfolios are an essential part of this strategy, and today we marked an important milestone as we strive to have the best hotel brands in these categories across the globe.”

In 2025, he said Hilton expects to add more than 150 luxury and lifestyle hotels around the world, including the highly anticipated debut of the ‘new’ Waldorf Astoria New York, a project which will see the property once more retain flagship status for the company.

With that in mind, we take you to over 20 leading luxury and lifestyle hotels globally in this edition, and review six leading Business Class cabins to help inspire your next trip.

We also take you skiing in North America, look at some fantastic accessories and give you some top-line travel news.

I hope you enjoy our latest issue of Wayfarer and as always, I look forward to your feedback.

Safe travels,

James Wilkinson Editor-In-Chief

Sales Enquiries

Tel: +61 (0)2 8586 6204 james@wayfarer.travel

Subscription Enquiries

4 issues for AU$60 (inc. GST)

Tel: +61 (0)2 8586 6204 subscriptions@intermedia.com.au

Published by

41 Bridge Road, Glebe

NSW 2037 Australia

Tel: +61 (0)2

www.cathaypacific.com/TheAriaSuite

DEPARTURES.

Qantas celebrates 90 years of international flying (p24)

The Hot List

What’s on our travel and lifestyle radar across the world right now.

01

‘AUANA BECOMES THE HOTTEST TICKET IN HAWAI‘I

Global entertainment powerhouse Cirque du Soleil has debuted ‘Auana, its first resident production in Hawai‘i, at the Outrigger Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel in Honolulu.

A dazzling homage to Hawai‘i’s heritage and Cirque’s iconic artistry, the show combines breathtaking acrobatics, multimedia projections, and mo‘olelo (stories) inspired by the rich culture of the Hawaiian Islands.

Rooted in Hawaiian history and mythology, ‘Auana takes audiences through eight visually stunning chapters with vivid, dreamlike scenes and daring acrobatic portrayals.

Performances run Wednesday through Sunday at 5:30pm and 8:30pm, exclusively at the Outrigger Theater. cirquedusoleil.com

02

UNITED AIRLINES UPGRADES POLARIS

United Airlines has unveiled the United Elevated interior for its new Boeing 787-9 aircraft that raises the standard of international premium travel for the carrier and will include two, new business class suites, the greatest number of total premium seats in United’s fleet (99 per aircraft), an Ossetra caviar amuse-bouche service, Starlink connectivity and even larger 4K OLED seatback screens.

The airline’s new United Polaris Studio suites are positioned in the first row of each business class section and total eight, lie-flat, all-aisle-access seats that are 25% larger than standard United Polaris with privacy doors, an extra ottoman seat for companions, exclusive entrée options, an Ossetra caviar amuse-bouche service, new amenity kits with luxury skincare offerings, wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and a huge 27-inch, 4K OLED seatback screen - the largest among United States carriers.

Standard United Polaris seats also get upgraded to suites with the addition of sliding doors and larger, 19-inch 4K OLED screens. united.com

03

QANTAS’ STYLISH ADELAIDE ADDITION

Qantas has opened the doors to its first Domestic Business Lounge in Adelaide, which celebrates the best of South Australia.

The new lounge features a market kitchen, inspired by the Adelaide Central Market, serving up dishes created by Qantas Creative Director of Food, Beverage and Service, Neil Perry, and lighter snack options by famed gourmand queen Maggie Beer.

“For the millions of customers that visit our lounges, we know just how important it is to have a premium pre-flight experience and we’re so pleased to be bringing this to Adelaide,” said Qantas Group CEO International, Cam Wallace. qantas.com

04

FIJI AIRWAYS TAKES OFF FOR DALLAS

Fiji Airways has bolstered its global footprint with the launch of its longest flight and first-ever direct service between Dallas Fort Worth, Texas and Nadi, Fiji.

The new service operates three times per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, initially, with seamless connections from Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific via Fiji.

Fiji Airways is operating the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 XWB aircraft on this new 13-hour route, offering premium seating for 334 customers, including 33 lie-flat, aisle-access business class seats for ultimate comfort and convenience. fijiairways.com

05

GOOGLE’S NOISE CANCELLING DELIGHT

Google has debuted the Pixel Buds Pro 2, which process audio an impressive 90 times faster than the speed of sound, offer twice as much mid-band noise cancellation and feature a sleek new design built for comfort and secure fit.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 highlight how much Google has impressed with all of its product releases in 2024 and builds on an already impressive product that has now been through several upgrades.

Thanks to the all-new custom-designed Tensor A1 chip, the audio is clear, balanced and better than ever, particularly when you are paired with the Pixel 9 Pro, which we think is Google’s best ever device. store.google.com

06

LANGHAM’S MANHATTAN ATTRACTION

Hotel club lounges can be hard to uncover nowadays, but The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue recently added one that has quickly become a hidden gem in Manhattan. Located on the fourth floor overlooking Fifth Avenue, The Langham Club was designed by Richmond International with business and leisure travellers in mind. Those seeking unparalleled luxury and comfort are welcomed to delight in all-day refreshments and

exquisite culinary presentations while basking in the sophisticated ambiance.

Access to The Langham Club is included for those who book Executive Club Rooms, the Junior Suite with Empire State View, the One Bedroom Empire State View Suite, and a Penthouse or the Presidential Suite. Guests may also purchase daily club access passes.

langhamhotels.com

Take Off.

Essential airline news, reviews and features from the across the sky.

Fiji

Airways now a full oneworld

member

Fiji Airways has become the newest full member of oneworld alliance, with a suite of benefits now available to travellers.

The Nadi-based carrier will provide top tier customers a full suite of oneworld benefits as a full member airline, including access to a network of nearly 700 airport lounges globally, priority check-in and boarding, earning and redeeming miles and earning Tier Points.

“Becoming a full member of the oneworld alliance is a proud and momentous milestone for Fiji Airways,” said Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO, Andre Viljoen.

“This achievement reflects our commitment to providing world-class service and expanding our global reach, while showcasing the warmth and hospitality of Fiji to the world. fijiairways.com

American’s major Queensland boost with more Brisbane flights

American Airlines is adding more services to Australia, with the launch of three weekly flights between Los Angeles and Brisbane.

American Airlines’ new services, in partnership with Qantas, come alongside the resumption of the carrier’s seasonal service from Dallas Fort Worth to Brisbane this October with its newly upgraded Boeing 787-9 aircraft.

“American is proud to partner with Qantas to increase travel options for customers to Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne this winter,” said American’s Vice Chair and Chief Strategy Officer, Steve Johnson.

This winter, American and Qantas will offer up to seven weekly flights to Los Angeles, providing convenient daily flights for customers connecting Queensland’s sensational coastlines, world-famous zoos and more with the City of Angels.

Following a successful season of operation on American’s first-ever flights Dallas Fort Worth to Brisbane, this popular flight will return for winter service starting October 25.

American also recently announced its newly designed Boeing 787-9 aircraft featuring 51 Flagship Suite seats and 32 Premium Economy seats will be available on all flights between Dallas Fort Worth and Brisbane. American’s customers have more ways to enhance their travel experience. In addition to existing opportunities for American’s AAdvantage members to earn and redeem miles for travel on Qantas, AAdvantage members can also use their miles to upgrade to a higher cabin of service on Qantas on select fares. aa.com

Qantas announces new Perth routes to New Zealand and South Africa

“We’re so excited to be launching two new international routes, unlocking more options and greater choice for all Australians to connect to the world through our growing network,” Qantas CEO International Cam Wallace.

“By connecting Perth directly with Auckland and Johannesburg, we’re supporting the local economy by opening valuable inbound tourism opportunities for Western Australia, as well as generating new jobs for the state.

“These routes also enable further growth throughout Australia with connections across our domestic network.

“Our new Perth to Auckland route offers connections for West Australians to New York via Auckland while the new direct flight to Johannesburg provides a vital connection for customers in Perth to visit popular cities like Cape Town through our partnership with Airlink.” qantas.com

In great news for Western Australia, Qantas is adding new routes from Perth to Auckland and Johannesburg, set to take off from December 2025.

Qatar Airways ups flights to Canada and Brazil

Qatar Airways is broadening horizons for travellers to and from the Americas with its upcoming increase in flights to Toronto, Canada and São Paulo, Brazil.

Reaffirming its focus on serving growing demand, the airline will serve Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) with five weekly flights from 19 June 2025, and São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) with 17 weekly flights from 25 June 2025.

“We launched our services to Toronto Pearson Airport less than six months ago and have seen a strong response in the market,” said Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Thierry Antinori.

“We are proud to announce the increase in flights to meet the growing demand for our award-winning travel experience.”

“At the same time, we are expanding in South America with additional flights to São Paulo, a key gateway and strategic hub for business and leisure travel.

“These expansions underscore our commitment to providing seamless global connectivity through Hamad International Airport - voted World’s Best Airport Shopping by Skytrax in 2025.”

qatarairways.com

United Airlines to re-establish San Francisco as a global gateway

United has revealed it will add 20 percent more flying out of San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in 2025, reflecting its long-term strategy to re-establish the hub as a global gateway, according to Chief Executive Scott Kirby.

He said United is now larger in SFO than it was pre-pandemic, with capacity

up six percent since 2019, and 20 percent versus last year.

“We’re winning more and more Bay Area customers because of our investments in the product, the experience and the places we fly,” Kirby said.

“Our growth in SFO is a direct result of United’s ambitious network strategy, which has set us apart from the

competition and cemented our status as the world’s largest airline.”

United flies to 111 cities around the world from San Francisco and will offer approximately 300 daily flights this summer – the most since 2019 and more than any other airline in the Bay Area, according to the carrier. united.com

Air New Zealand’s stylish new uniforms

Air New Zealand has revealed its highly-anticipated new uniform, a collection that embodies the airline’s profound sense of pride in Aotearoa and strong cultural heritage.

Designed by the world-renowned Emilia Wickstead, with bespoke hand painted prints from tā moko artist Te Rangitu Netana, the uniform marks the beginning of a new era for Air New Zealand. It shines a light on what makes New Zealand unique to create a collection that is anything but uniform.

Key pieces in the collection, such as ‘The Fine Print – Dress’, showcase Emilia’s mastery of her craft, featuring the intricate and meaningful kōwhai print. ‘The Collective Thread – Shirt’ features striking purapura whetū patterns, designed to be worn by any cabin crew or ground staff member, highlighting the versatility of the collection.

The Ie Faitaga is to be trialled by Pasifika team members and supports the airline’s commitment to inclusivity. New designs for pilots include a bold pinstriped suit, with a kiwi feather print lining, symbolising leadership and prestige.

As part of this collaboration, Te Rangitu Netana’s meticulously hand-drawn prints bring powerful narratives to life, reflecting Aotearoa, Air New Zealand, and its people through storytelling woven into Emilia Wickstead’s design vision.

“Each print is a story, deeply rooted in the traditions and values of Aotearoa,” said Netana. “The patterns on this uniform are a reflection of the land, the sea, and the connections that bind us all as Kiwi.

“As a Māori artist on the world stage, I feel a deep responsibility in ensuring our culture is represented in a way that is authentic and meaningful.

“I’m proud that these designs have found a place in Air New Zealand’s uniform, bringing te ao Māori to designs that show up all over the world.” airnz.co.nz

Cathay’s Premium winner

Cathay Pacific’s all-new Premium Economy cabin has taken to the skies and while you might be lucky to experience the new product on select routes, the existing cabin has been standout for years across the fleet, as James Wilkinson discovers.

From collaborations with Hong Kong dining institutions to fantastic inflight entertainment, spacious seats and legendary hospitality, Cathay Pacific’s Premium Economy cabin has been a standout product for over a decade.

While the focus now might be on what the carrier is doing with the cabin going forward thanks to even more spacious and advanced new seats, the offering as it stands is already one of the best in the market.

Cathay Pacific’s Premium Economy cabin can be found on the carrier’s widebody fleet, including the Airbus A330300, A350-900, A350-1000 and Boeing 777-300ER aircraft that operate on the airline’s key routes to Australia, Asia, Europe, the United States and beyond.

Leading the way in the cabin is the spacious and comfortable seats that offer a generous recline of nine inches, a seat pitch of 40 inches, a width of 20 inches (depending on the aircraft), a headrest, full-length calf rests and leather-padded footrests.

Ideally, the bulkhead rows in the cabin offers a much roomier experience, however with the spacious seat pitch, you’ll feel comfortable in any row on the various aircraft.

The large meal table offers ample room to work and dine, while extra storage spaces, in-seat power –alongside the reliable inflight WiFi on offer – means you can get plenty of work done on both short and long flights.

You’ll find an excellent range of entertainment available on the StudioCX system, from Asian cinema to Hollywood hits, TV box sets and music, plus live sport should you be flying on a Cathay A350 aircraft.

The carrier also added a range of Disney Plus original titles to the system and it accentuated what already was an impressive line-up of entertainment on offer.

While we’ve been a fan of Cathay’s inflight entertainment offering for years, where the airline stands-out is through the dining available in Premium

economy, which is ahead of many other carriers’ Business Class cabins.

In January 2025, Cathay Pacific elevated the dining experience for Economy and Premium passengers thanks to a partnership with Eaton Hong Kong’s Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Yat Tung Heen that saw signature dishes take to the skies.

“Teaming up with Yat Tung Heen, a culinary powerhouse in its own right, allows us to transform our inflight dining experience into something even more memorable for our customers,” said Cathay General Manager Customer Experience and Design, Vivian Lo.

“Our hope is to enrich every traveller’s journey by giving them a taste of our home city’s unique and iconic flavours, brought to life by the culinary craftsmanship of Cathay Pacific and Yat Tung Heen.”

While the meals on offer vary per flight, expect dishes like a Hong Kong beef curry with broccoli and steamed rice or roasted ling fillet with anchovy in black olive and tomato sauce.

In addition, vegetarian, vegan and plant-forward options are also available to help travellers prioritise their wellness during the flight.

On long-haul flights, expect Hong Kong egg tarts served warm mid-flight, alongside the carrier’s famed Betsy beer, their own Pale Ale brewed for 35,000 feet.

If you’re catching a long-haul flight, Cathay Pacific also offers an environmentally friendly amenity kit featuring socks, an eyeshade, earplugs, a toothbrush and toothpaste to help get you to your destination relaxed.

We can’t wait to see how Cathay Pacific has elevated the new Premium Economy cabin and for now, we’re fans of what’s on offer across the fleet on both short- and longhaul routes.

cathaypacific.com

BRING ON THE REWARDS

20 HOTEL BRANDS.

6,500+ GLOBAL DESTINATIONS.

ONE LOYALTY PROGRAMME.

IHG One Rewards is one of the largest industry-leading loyalty programme with 145m+ members globally, driving increased high-quality returns for our owners.

Scan the QR code on the right to learn more about the programme.

InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef

Qantas’ flying milestone

Qantas is one of the world's most iconic airlines and this year, The Flying Kangaroo is celebrating a remarkable milestone.

antas is celebrating 90 years of international flying in 2025, marking an incredible milestone in the evolution of the aviation industry.

On 17 April 1935, Qantas operated Australia’s first international passenger flight from Brisbane to Singapore, carrying two customers on a DH86 aircraft.

The flight took three and a half days with 16 stops along the way and almost a century later, over 273 million customers have flown across the Qantas international network which now spans 56 routes to 34 destinations in 25 countries around the world.

Qantas CEO International, Cam Wallace, said the anniversary is a proud moment in the national carrier’s history.

“Our first international flight took over three days to reach Singapore from Brisbane, carrying just a few passengers and making more than 15 stops,” he said.

“Fast forward to today and we’re flying thousands of passengers daily on nonstop services between Australia to Singapore and over 7.6 million customers travelled on our broader international network in 2024 – a powerful reflection of how far international travel has come.”

qantas.com

Singapore surprise

In 2024, Singapore Airlines rolled out a revamped Premium Economy Class inflight experience and with Business Class dishes on offer – it’s no surprise the cabin continues to sell fast on most flights, as James Wilkinson discovers.

One of the best things about flying Singapore Airlines in Business Class is the ability to be able to ‘book the cook’ before you travel and choosing a meal you really want during your journey.

When that was made available to Premium Economy passengers, with up to 20 dishes available on rotation, for pre-order at least 24 hours before departure, all of a sudden that cabin, which already impressed with comfort and space, became even more appealing for global flyers.

The revamped experience has also seen the addition of Charles de Cazanove Brut Tradition NV champagne available after take-off (although we do wish it was prior) alongside an all-new Out of the Woods amenity kit for flights over seven hours.

These major enhancements to Premium Economy Class are the first

since Singapore Airlines launched the cabin to much fanfare in 2015.

“Since its introduction in 2015, Premium Economy Class has become popular with our customers,” said Singapore Airlines Senior Vice President Customer Experience, Yeoh Phee Teik.

“They appreciate the added amenities, heightened comfort, and the extra personal space it offers, all at an excellent value.

“At Singapore Airlines, though, our philosophy is to never stand still. We regularly gather customer feedback and conduct market research, learn more about the evolving value drivers for travellers, and find innovative ways to continue delivering a personalised and world-class inflight experience.

“All of [the changes] reflects Singapore Airlines’ dedication to elevating the Premium Economy Class experience to a class of its own.”

At the forefront of the enhanced Premium Economy offering is most certainly the food, to the delight of gourmand travellers.

Singapore Airlines developed over 200 new appetisers, main courses, and desserts as part of this expansion of the Premium Economy Class inflight meals and the meals consist of a seasonal appetiser, main course, bread, dessert, and cheese and cracker, all served on a full-sized tray.

Appetisers include garlic roasted prawns with smoked aioli and Patatas Bravas (Spanish fried potatoes), broccoli salad with hot smoked salmon, and seasonal variations of Japanese cold noodles with soba sauce.

For the customers that don’t Book the Cook, two premium main course options, either international or Asian cuisine, are available on every flight and highlights include new dishes such as Beef Bourguignon served with bacon, mushrooms, vegetables,

and potato gratin, Bak Chor Mee (minced pork noodles), and Thai-style Crab Curry served with a combination of jasmine rice and brown rice, and seasonal vegetables with egg.

If you do Book the Cook, which you absolutely should, up to 20 dishes are available on rotation, for pre-order at least 24 hours before departure, and they include popular choices such as Singapore Style Seafood Hor Fun and Chicken Biryani, as well as new additions like Slow Braised Lamb Ragout, Sake Teriyaki, and plant-based wellness dishes such as Mushroom Eggplant Meatballs.

When it comes to dessert, expect tasty treats like Chocolate Feuilletine Cake, Mascarpone Cream Cake, as well as Apple Crumble Cheesecake.

On the beverages front, a selection of wines and Champagne, curated by Singapore Airlines’ panel of wine experts, are available exclusively for customers in the Premium Economy Class cabin, including the 2023 Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc and the 2022 St Hallett Faith Shiraz, alongside beers and an extensive selection of spirits including whisky, gin and vodka, plus signature cocktails like the Singapore Sling.

For those peckish between meals, customers can request snack options such as almonds, cashews, potato chips, assorted buns, sandwiches, muffins and flavoured popcorn.

Alongside the delightful cuisine, Singapore Airlines’ Premium Economy impresses with a comfortable seat that features a full-leather finishing, calf-rest and foot-bar for every seat, individual in-seat power supply, two USB ports, personal in-seat reading light, cocktail table and extra stowage spaces for personal items.

The seats are 19.5 inches wide, with eight-inch recline and seat pitch of 38 inches, offering space to relax, work (yes, there is WiFi on selected flights), eat and sleep.

When it comes to entertainment, the Singapore Airlines Premium Economy seats feature a 13.3-inch full HD monitor, where you’ll find 1,800 entertainment options, including movies, television programmes, music, games and apps.

Like you could expect in Business Class on many other carriers, Singapore Airlines offer active noise-cancelling headphones for Premium Economy guests in yet another fantastic offering in this impressive cabin.

The Singapore Airlines Premium Economy experience most certainly impresses on many fronts and it is ideal for journeys to the Lion City and across the globe, particularly on popular routes like London, Paris and New York City.

singaporeair.com

Canadian delight

It’s been eight years since Air Canada introduced the Boeing 737-8 to its fleet and in that time, it has continued to be a winner for domestic and short-haul international flights, as James Wilkinson discovers.

Air Canada’s domestic and short-haul international Business Class was always popular on the Airbus A319, A320 and A321 fleet thanks to the carrier’s exceptional hospitality and food and drinks offering, but the latest generation product on the Boeing 737-8 has been firmly elevated thanks to comfortable seats and excellent inflight entertainment.

What you’ll find that immediately impresses is the comfort of the new domestic and short-haul Business Class seats.

They have the space, look and feel of an international Premium Economy product – they are 21-inches wide and have a pitch of 38-inches – and offer a decent recline (6-inches), extendable leg rest and also have in-seat power and sturdy, spacious tables.

This is the kind of non-flatbed Business Class product that is enjoyable and ideal for flights like Vancouver to

New York, San Francisco to Toronto and other key routes the modern jets are deployed on.

While having only flown the product on day sectors, the seat is fantastic for working and getting a short rest, however you could easily have a solid four hours’ sleep on this plane for a red-eye sector.

When it comes to food and wine, Air Canada’s longhaul Business Class Signature Service has been a winner for years and the quality of the food on the Boeing 737-8 also stands tall, particularly the vegetarian lasagne and the chicken and rice.

On the wine front, a range of international red and white wines are on offer from Argentina, France and more. Again, for a domestic and short-haul Business product, it is very good.

Entertainment is in the form of oversized seatback screens, which feature new release and legendary movies, TV shows and albums, in what is one of easily the best selections in North America.

The Air Canada product rounds out well with the lounges on offer in Los Angeles, Vancouver, San Francisco and more, particularly the latter which recently made a stunning debut.

AIR CANADA’S SAN FRANCISCO LOUNGE

Air Canada opened its brand-new Maple Leaf Lounge at San Francisco International Airport, the airline’s 28th lounge worldwide and its third Maple Leaf Lounge in the United States in mid-2023.

The modern and exclusive respite, located in Terminal 2, features Air Canada’s first outdoor lounge terrace, together with a range of premium amenities, food and beverages, making the travel experience for eligible customers even more comfortable and convenient before their flights to Canada and beyond.

In addition to the range of services and amenities the airline’s Maple Leaf Lounges are known for, the newest Lounge features an expansive outdoor terrace with aircraft and runway views.

The new Maple Leaf Lounge at San Francisco International Airport pays homage to its California location both through its design and decor, and the food and beverage selections presented, which highlight local makers and flavours.

Unique seafood offerings, including the iconic San Francisco fish stew cioppino, will be on offer alongside a selection of California wines, and beer from Sierra Nevada Brewing Company and Anchor Brewing, America’s first craft beer.

VANCOUVER’S BRILLIANT CONNECTIONS

If you are travelling via Vancouver to the United States from Australia, Asia and more, you’ll find a fast and efficient transit that includes USA Pre-Clearance in Canada before you board your next flight and save up to hours of wait times on the other end.

aircanada.com

Malaysia’s new cabins take off

Malaysia Airlines has celebrated its latest milestone with its inaugural A330neo flight, flown to one of the carrier’s most important destinations, Melbourne.

The A330neo, a key addition to Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG)’s fleet, is set to gradually service long-haul routes across Australasia and beyond, redefining the travel experience for passengers onboard the popular Asia carrier.

“The debut of our first A330neo marks a transformative moment for MAG as we modernise our fleet and set a new era of air travel where innovation, comfort, and sustainability come together seamlessly,” said Malaysia Aviation Group Managing Director, Datuk Captain Izham Ismail.

“This commitment underscores our dedication to placing our passengers at the heart of everything we do, delivering an exceptional and unforgettable journey that embodies the warmth and care of Malaysian Hospitality.”

The A330neo is the latest aircraft to join Malaysia Aviation Group’s growing fleet, with a total of 20 to be delivered by 2028.

Malaysia’s A330neo aircraft comprises 297 seats, including 28 in Business Class and 269 in Economy Class, of which 24 seats come with extra legroom.

With a 1-2-1 herringbone configuration, the newly designed Collins Aerospace Elevation Business Class seats will be a first for the Group, featuring an all-suite cabin with individual privacy doors which prioritises cabin comfort and practicality.

The aircraft also have high-speed connectivity, allowing all passengers, regardless of cabin class or loyalty tier, to enjoy complimentary WiFi onboard.

malaysiaairlines.com

United heads to South Australia

United Airlines is set to commence direct flights between Adelaide and San Francisco from December 2025, the first ever direct route between South Australia and the United States of America.

Commencing as a seasonal service departing San Francisco on 11 December 2025 and subject to government approvals, the 15-hour United flight will operate three times per week until March, “with a possibility to increase in the future as demand grows”, according to the carrier.

The first flight heading eastbound will then depart Adelaide for San Francisco on 13 December 2025 and both services will be operated by a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, with 257 seats, including

48 in United Polaris Business Class and 21 in United Premium Plus.

South Australian Premier, Peter Malinauskas said he was thrilled to see the first ever non-stop services to California from his state.

“Today is an historic occasion for South Australians who have long wanted to fly direct to the United States,” he said.

“For many years, the ambition of a direct route between South Australia and the US has been out of reach.”

When the new flight launches, United will become the only airline

with nonstop service to four Australian cities — Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide — offering more routes between the two countries than any other carrier.

“At United, we’re changing the way people think about where they travel – by offering the greatest access to see and explore the world, whether it’s for relaxation, adventure or business,” said United Airlines Managing Director for APAC Airport Operations, Sam Shinohara.

united.com

Fiji Airways adopts AAdvantage

American Airlines’ AAdvantage members will have more ways to enhance their travel experience when flying on Fiji Airways.

Fiji Airways has officially joined the AAdvantage travel rewards program and has become the newest full member of the oneworld alliance.

“The partnership between American and Fiji Airways is giving customers more ways to unlock new travel experiences,” said American’s Senior Vice President of Alliances Anmol Bhargava.

“As part of the AAdvantage program, members flying on either airline can immediately enjoy an elevated travel experience.”

Bhargava said the enhanced collaboration will provide AAdvantage

members a seamless experience when traveling on Fiji Airways.

Members with status will be able to enjoy benefits such as priority checkin, priority boarding, complimentary baggage allowance, pre-reserved seats, lounge access and more, when traveling with Fiji Airways.

“We are delighted to join the American Airlines AAdvantage program, marking a new chapter for Fiji Airways and offering more opportunities for our loyal customers to experience the magic of Fiji,” said Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO, Andre Viljoen.

“This partnership will provide a seamless travel experience, making it

easier for travellers to reach Fiji’s tropical paradise while enjoying enhanced benefits.

“With our new membership in the oneworld alliance, we look forward to offering greater connectivity to destinations around the globe, including the United States and welcoming more visitors to experience the warmth, culture and beauty of Fiji.”

Started in 1981 to reward frequent flyers, the AAdvantage program is the longest-running travel rewards program in the world.

fijiairways.com & aa.com

Room Key.

The latest hotel news, reviews and interviews from across the world.

Tempo creates a buzz in Times Square

The 661-room Tempo by Hilton Times Square, the first hotel from Hilton’s newest stylish and contemporary lifestyle brand, has been firmly creating abuzz in New York City since the property debuted in mid-2023.

Located in TSX Broadway, new-build 46-story tower featuring experiential retail, cutting-edge entertainment spaces and the historic Palace Theatre, the hotel matches the ever-evolving needs of the traveller.

Hotel highlights include expansive views of Times Square, a buzzy cocktail lounge with an outdoor terrace, fitness centre with top-of-the-line equipment and signature Tempo by Hilton Wellness Rooms featuring Peloton bikes. hilton.com

Fairmont debuts in Tokyo with stunning new hotel

Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, part of the world-leading hospitality group Accor, has opened its first property in Japan, Fairmont Tokyo.

Fairmont Tokyo promises a vibrant social scene, first-class dining and spa, and expansive high-rise city and bay views from the heart of the Shibaura district, a historic gathering place dating back more than four centuries to the Edo period, building upon Fairmont’s legacy of sitting at the social epicentre of timeless destinations worldwide.

Boasting a prime central location for exploring the wonders

Outrigger Kona’s new Royal Huaka‘i Suite

Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa has introduced a new suite and enhanced club lounge as part of its US$60 million transformation.

The all-new Royal Huaka‘i Suite and transformed Voyager 47 Club Lounge bring a modern island design that celebrates the rich history of Keauhou –meaning ‘New Current’ or ‘New Era’.

Spanning nearly 2,500 square feet, The Royal Huaka‘i Suite is a one-bedroom, two-bath accommodation with a spacious open-concept living area and wellappointed kitchenette, perched above Keauhou Bay, the birthplace of King Kamehameha III.

The suite features three private balconies with panoramic ocean views, while the spa-inspired main bathroom features a deep soaking tub, glassenclosed shower and double vanity.

of Japan’s capital city, Fairmont Tokyo sits just 13 minutes from Haneda Airport and six minutes from both the Tokyo and Shinagawa Stations.

“We are delighted to unveil Fairmont’s debut property in Japan, nestled in the dynamic Shibaura district of Tokyo,” said Fairmont Tokyo General Manager, Karan Singh.

“This vibrant neighbourhood pulses with energy, blending rich heritage and culture – a perfect match for the iconic Fairmont brand.” fairmont.com

“The Royal Huaka‘i Suite is the perfect name for this room because it celebrates how close we are to the birthplace of King Kamehameha III and honours the voyaging heritage of Keauhou Bay,” said Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa Director of Cultural Experiences, Nani Kupihe.

Guests also receive complimentary access to the newly enhanced Voyager 47 Club Lounge, a welcoming space for both relaxation and connection with dedicated social and meeting areas, along with a children’s play zone. outrigger.com

Ka La�i Waikīkī Beach set for stylish makeover in Honolulu

Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, part of Hilton’s luxury LXR Hotels and Resorts, is set to embark on a multi-million-dollar renovation during 2025.

Led by the internationally renowned Bryan O’Sullivan Studio (BOS), this extensive transformation coincides with the property’s 15th anniversary and reflects developer Irongate Group’s commitment to redefining luxury hospitality in Waikīkī.

The phased renovation will include upgrades to the guest rooms and suites, public areas such as the pool, and both signature restaurants along with the spa, fitness center, and landscaping.

In addition, the lobby will be reimagined with a stylish new bar as its centerpiece.

The 38-story hotel will remain fully operational throughout the process, with completion anticipated in the second quarter of 2026. hilton.com

QT makes South East Asia debut in Singapore

EVT has introduced its first QT Hotels and Resorts’ property to South East Asia with the opening of QT Singapore.

The 134-room luxury lifestyle hotel launches following a major refurbishment and rebranding of the heritage Hotel Telegraph on Robinson Road.

“After a phenomenal transformation, QT Singapore is ready to bring its bold and creatively charged hospitality to the heart of Singapore’s culturally vibrant district,” said EVT Hotels and Resorts Director, Norman Arundel.

“With a new signature restaurant led by award-winning chef Sean Connolly and the stunning labyrinth rooftop pool and bar, guests will stay, dine and immerse themselves with unexpected delight. qthotels.com

Regent makes a splash in Santa Monica

The legendary Regent brand has returned to the shores of the United States with the opening of Regent Santa Monica Beach.

This elegant beachfront resort cements the reimagined Regent brand and the beauty of contrast by combining the glamour of Los Angeles with the splendour of the coast.

The resort has 167 guestrooms and suites, with most offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica Beach, and its namesake pier.

Upon arrival, guests can relax with a beverage from the room’s complimentary Refreshment Gallery, featuring beverages and snacks curated ahead of arrival according to a guest’s personal tastes.

Regent Santa Monica Beach is home to four dining destinations, each offering unique epicurean discoveries. Orla,

and Orla Bar by James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Mina blends the beloved flavours of the Mediterranean with the unsurpassed quality and freshness of Californian ingredients.

Sweet July, the lifestyle and culinary brand founded by entrepreneur, restaurateur and New York Times bestselling author Ayesha Curry, is also now located at Regent Santa Monica Beach.

The new café features a never-before-seen menu inspired by Curry’s love for California farmers markets, alongside a nod to her Jamaican heritage.

Regent Santa Monica Beach also invites guests to rest and rejuvenate in its 10,000-square-foot Guerlain Wellness spa, the European brand’s first on the Western Seaboard. ihg.com

Elevating Atlanta

The exciting, new Signia by Hilton brand made a stunning Georgia debut last year with the opening of Atlanta’s largest ground-up hotel development project in 40 years and since then the property has been a major winner for business travellers.

The 976-room Signia by Hilton Atlanta, the first new build and Georgia hotel for the Signia by Hilton brand, is one of the most exciting developments Atlanta has ever seen for its style, location, sophistication and hospitality.

Built on the repurposed foundation of the Georgia Dome, the hotel features eight food and beverage experiences, plus a spa, beauty bar, rooftop pool and fitness center, more than 100,000 square feet of flexible meeting space (including the largest hotel ballroom in Georgia), a grand outdoor event deck and lawn, and the impressive Club Signia.

“Signia by Hilton offers the world’s best meetings and events, a vibrant atmosphere, exceptional amenities and personalised service catered to the needs of today’s global traveler,” said Hilton President and CEO, Chris Nassetta.

Upon entering Signia by Hilton Atlanta, guests can expect an impressive sense of arrival and personalized service from check-in to check-out. Travelers are welcomed into a modern, open-concept and naturally lit lobby, adorned with elevated fixtures and furniture that is stylish and comfortable, the perfect place for gathering and connecting.

The hotel features 976 guest rooms, including 70 suites, and up to 80 Club Signia rooms, available only as an exclusive guest experience, and additional specialty room types with Peloton bikes in-room and dedicated wellness rooms.

Guest rooms feature a variety of amenities including a walk-in rain shower, a relaxing Serta Perfect Sleeper bed, Nespresso machines, NEST amenities, steamers, umbrellas, robes and slippers, custom lighting and modern technology.

Inspired by private membership clubs, Club Signia is an immersive luxury experience that provides discerning guests with the finest hospitality and attentive service that’s a step ahead. Guests who book Club Signia gain a multitude of extras, including a dedicated Club Ambassador, access to Club Signia elevated guest rooms, early check-in and late check-out, premium Wi-Fi, and access to the exclusive Club Signia lounge that features all-day food and beverage offerings including club-style cocktail service, chef demonstrations and made-to-order snacks and small plates.

At the heart of the Signia by Hilton brand lies an emphasis on exceptional dining experiences, from chefdriven concepts to stylish bars. At the helm of the hotel’s talented culinary team are Director of Food and Beverage Jacob Linzey, Executive Chef Christian Quiñones and Executive Pastry Chef Daniella Lea Rada who oversee Signia by Hilton Atlanta’s eight next-level food and beverage experiences, featuring locally and regionally sourced ingredients.

hilton.com

Master of Kiyomizu

In the heart of Kyoto’s incredible Kiyomizu is the Hotel Seiryu, a property that’s located in a former elementary school that can firmly claim to be one of Japan’s best new hotels. To find out what makes the property so unique, James Wilkinson catches-up with Hotel Seiryu Kyoto General Manager, Takanori Muroi.

The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto is brilliant on so many levels, from the location to the design, rooms and food and beverage on offer. Please tell us about the project and how it came about.

In 1869, a total of 64 elementary schools were built in Kyoto for the respective local resident organizations that were called ‘bangumi elementary schools’.

This was before a national elementary school system was established in Japan. These elementary schools of Kyoto were unique in that they were funded and planned by the local residents of each community.

For this reason, each school had a different architectural structure and design reflecting the financial capacity, philosophies, and hopes for education of each community.

Our building, the former Kiyomizu Elementary School (27th Shimogyo Elementary School), built in 1933, has earned a great reputation for its design and its rebirth combining modern comfort as a high-quality heritage hotel under the direction of designer Ryu Kosaka.

Please tell us about the stylish rooms and suites on offer.

We have a total of 48 of the guests rooms, including one suite, which are in a classic style converted from a former school building or new modern type. The Panoramic Suite is our signature room with jaw-dropping city views.

Tell us about the fantastic food and beverage on offer.

Our hotel contains three food and beverage outlets. We have Benoit Kyoto, a partner restaurant, which is a French bistro restaurant overseen by Ducasse Paris, offering seasonal flavours and local ingredients showcased in traditional bistro fare with a modern twist.

There is also K36 The Bar and Rooftop, a partner restaurant, where you can enjoy the cityscape and an astonishing view of Kyoto from the rooftop. It overlooks sightseeing spots around the hotel that can only be seen here. The Bar inside offers rare whiskeys and wines and has an ample food menu, making it a suitable place for various occasions. You can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere in the bar that retains the remnants of the school building.

At the Library restaurant, our breakfast venue, we have a theme of ‘wellbeing’, a concept meaning that both the mind and body are in good condition, where we serve a ‘breakfast for learning’ unique to this restaurant inside a former school building, which incorporates healthconscious ingredients into the meal with which you start your day.

The former auditorium with its high ceiling, and the space surrounding guests with books, are reminiscent of the days when the establishment was still a school. It can be used not only as a restaurant, but also as a multipurpose space.

You have some fantastic activations, from music to performance. Please tell us about these.

Every Thursday, as an exclusive experience only for staying guests free of charge, we have a Maiko performance. The enigmatic charm of geisha, called geiko and maiko in the Kyoto dialect, is renowned worldwide. Get in touch with traditional Japanese culture and dive into a captivating world. This event includes a dance performance, photo session and a greeting. As well as being able to watch the graceful dances of maiko up close, which are rarely seen, there will be time to take photographs and talk with the maiko.

Every Friday, also as an exclusive experience only for staying guests free of charge, we have a live music event. This event is played on a variety of instruments and delivers the surprise of live background music for a support initiative for young local musicians.

What’s your x-factor at the Hotel Seiryu Kyoto?

The location. Our hotel surrounded by a preserved

historical district and its convenient location lets guests enjoy the quaint early morning and night-time sights of empty backstreets in this usually bustling district, as well as enjoy easy access to many of Kyoto’ s other iconic sites. We highly recommend the guest can have a walk before breakfast in the early morning.

Despite its location in the middle of a tourist area, the hotel offers only 48 rooms on a spacious 7,000 squaremeter site, an oasis of quiet luxury is completely away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Hotel Seiryu has been awarded one Michelin Key by the prestigious Michelin Guide. Tell us about that. We are very honoured to have received one Michelin Key. We will continue to promote the charms of Kyoto and make the hotel a place where our guests can enjoy their stay. We hope you enjoy your stay at this unique hotel.

How important is the partnership with Leading Hotels of the World (LHW)?

We are confident that LHW can support us to establish our hotel’s luxury positioning globally and help drive profitable growth from international markets, offer our unparallel access and unmatched expertise expanding our reach and growing our business.

What’s one of your favourite things to do in the local area?

Sightseeing by Rickshaw gives a more elevated sight line, lending a fresh perspective to everything you see. Faster than walking but slower than cycling, it allows you to enjoy touring Kyoto efficiently in comfort at an ideal speed.

lhw.com

GETTING TO KYOTO

You can get to Kyoto on the Japanese high-speed Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo (two hours) and Osaka (12 minutes). All Nippon Airways (ANA) flies to Tokyo and Osaka from across the globe, including New York, London, Sydney and more global gateways. The author recommends flying in ANA’s Business Class cabin, which features lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 configuration. ana.co.jp

SYDNEY HERITAGE LEGEND

When Capella Sydney opened its doors in 2023, it signalled the reawakening of one of the city’s most treasured landmarks and the arrival of a bold new chapter in Australian luxury hospitality.

As the first Australian address for the prestigious Capella Hotels and Resorts, the hotel masterfully reimagined Sydney’s former Department of Education building into a sanctuary of heritage, elegance and contemporary comfort. For the first time, this grand sandstone icon was opened to the public, its storied past now reinterpreted for the modern traveller.

Today, Capella Sydney is home to 192 generously appointed guestrooms and suites, a world-class Auriga wellness spa, and destination dining venues including Brasserie 1930, McRae Bar, and the light-filled Aperture. The hotel’s exceptional service and immersive guest programming have earned it widespread acclaim, including Australian Hotel of the Year (shared with The Calile Hotel), Best Luxury Hotel (HM Awards), Best

Deluxe Accommodation (AHA Awards), and Best City Hotel in Australia at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025.

Further elevating the brand’s global standing, Capella Hotels and Resorts was recently named Best Hotel Brand at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025 – a recognition of its unwavering commitment to excellence, refined design, and transformative guest experiences.

At the heart of Capella Sydney’s offering is the Culturist Programme, a signature of the brand. Capella Culturists curate bespoke experiences grounded in local heritage and storytelling, from architectural walks through the Sandstone Precinct to First Nations-led explorations, all centred in The Living Room, an exclusive space for in-house guests that acts as a cultural salon and sanctuary.

Now, Capella’s presence in Sydney is set to grow with the unveiling of The Lands by Capella, opening in early 2026.

Located in the adjacent, heritagelisted Department of Lands building, this visionary project will transform the site into a bold new destination for cultural encounters, grand events and community connection.

Together, Capella Sydney and The Lands by Capella will form the Sandstone Precinct - an expansive,

walkable destination at the nexus of Circular Quay, Macquarie and George Streets. Developed by Pontiac Land Group, the precinct represents one of the largest privately funded tourism infrastructure projects in New South Wales, encompassing more than 10,000 square metres of experiential space, including curated retail, rooftop dining, and five elegant new event venues.

The Lands by Capella will also introduce The Sandstones Club by Florence Guild, a modern members’ club that fuses cultural programming with professional and social connection in a space designed to inspire.

“The Lands by Capella presents an opportunity to extend our World's Best Brand award-winning bespoke luxury hospitality to the wider community. Luxury is not just where you stay, but how you live. By curating extraordinary experiences across hospitality and retail, we bring the art of refined living and personalised service into every touchpoint," said Capella Sydney General Manager, Marc von Arnim.

Together, Capella Sydney and The Lands by Capella are redefining Sydney’s luxury landscape – blending heritage, innovation and hospitality into an enduring legacy.

capellahotels.com/sydney

Maldivian elegance

When it comes to the most luxurious resort experiences in Asia, high up on the list is Velaa Private Island in the Maldives, where villas the size of houses come alongside several world-class restaurants, a private golf course and some of the best water activities in the nation.

Situated in the stunning Noonu Atoll, Velaa Private Island is the vision and passion project of Czech entrepreneurs Radka and Jiří Šmejc, who dreamt of a retreat befit for the world’s elite.

The name Velaa means ‘Turtle’ in Dhivehi – honouring the generations of sea turtles that flock there to nest and hatch.

Award-winning Czech architect Petr Kolar was inspired by this namesake, and the 47 stylish villas were constructed to form the ‘head’ of the turtle with the island itself creating the ‘body’ – seen by guests making the 45-minute private sea-plane journey from Malé.

This stunning resort, which has one of the highest return guest percentages in Asia, is making some enhancements in 2025 to truly up the luxury ante. Forever challenging its own standard of excellence, Velaa Private Island will

close for a month in September for a complete renovation of The Kids Club, known as Lha Velaa, or ‛Little Turtle’ in Dhivehi.

Inspired by the owner’s daughter’s imagination, the new area will bring everything a child could wish for. Highlights will see fully-expanded facilities and new interactive marine life programmes including nature walks and snorkelling excursions. Little thrill-seekers can also enjoy fly board and flite board lessons, the first of their kind in the Maldives.

An exciting array of exclusive partnerships have also been secured for 2025 with world-leading artists, wine connoisseurs and athletes.

In February, the renowned and award-winning Canadian artist Jared Boechler will join the Island for a series of immersive art workshops inspired by the island’s beauty, whilst in February, expert connoisseurs Didier

Depond, President of Delamotte and Salon Champagne, and Ariel Savina of Tiano and Nareno will arrive to Velaa for two exclusive Winemaker dinners.

In May 2025, Velaa will also partner with padel legend Alba Gálan, once ranked 6th best padel player globally.

Having transitioned from her illustrious playing career to become one of the top padel coaches in the world, Alba will be visiting the island for a week of one-to-one sessions, showcasing her skill to Velaa’s guests.

Later in the year in November, Velaa Private Island will also host a Gastronomy Month, showcasing collaborations between Velaa’s Culinary Director Gaushan De Silva and renowned Michelin-starred chefs from around the globe, offering guests exclusive dining experiences in the resort’s signature restaurant, Aragu.

Highlights will include wine-pairing sessions, and ‘four-hands dinners’

in which De Silva will blend techniques and culinary styles with the visiting chefs to create a spectacular tasting menu.

This year also marks a pivotal year for wellness –longevity is set to dominate the sector, and the demand for medical wellness tourism is increasing exponentially.

Velaa is at the very forefront of scaling its product and technology innovations to meet consumer demand – seen in its recently opened, industry-defining ‘Wellbeing Village’.

Comprising a treatment centre, a recently opened openair yoga pavilion, an air-conditioned Pilates studio, and a high-tech gym with oceanfront views, the Wellbeing Village offers bespoke, multi-day programmes crafted by a team of world-renowned practitioners, all of which combine ancient Ayurvedic principles with cutting-edge wellness and osteopathic practices.

Ahead of arrival, each guest can have an optional, complimentary video consultation with Velaa’s resident Ayurvedic doctor, meaning a schedule is set well before their scenic seaplane arrival.

Programmes can involve blood analysis, body composition analysis, HeartMath biofeedback, genetic insights, and food sensitivity and weight management

analysis – of which the detailed insights are transformed into deeply personalised treatment plans.

The amenities are unseen elsewhere across the country – the Snow Room is a first in the Maldives, tapping into the growing cryotherapy trend and offering guests a ‘thermal journey’ juxtaposed with detoxing in the sauna or steam room, whilst the Cloud 9 sensory cloud-like pod uses vibration, colour and sound therapies to induce deep relaxation.

The Wellbeing Village is also home to Faiy, Velaa’s fourth restaurant on the island, and an epicentre for wellbalanced, nutritious meals.

Offering thoughtfully crafted menus inspired by often raw, plant-based ingredients, the team will also personalise each dish for each guest, creating a custom menu tailored to their preferences in line with their wellbeing journey.

Velaa Private Island is the only resort in the Maldives – and one of the only few in the world with a twospa concept.

The Wellbeing Village compliments Velaa’s serene overwater spa, and the therapies used have been developed in partnership with global leaders, such as Dr Burgener from Switzerland.

STUNNING ACCOMMODATIONS OVER AND NEXT TO THE OCEAN

The stylish 47 villas – 18 of which are over water – are both supersized and preserve the utmost privacy.

The spacious two-bedroom villas are ideal for families, whilst the Romantic Pool Residence is the perfect option for couples, accessible only by boat, and perched above the lagoon boasting breathtaking, oceanic views.

From private jacuzzis, infinity pools, sundecks with direct access to private lagoons, private gyms, spa treatment rooms, private chefs, and butlers, retractable rooves and even specific positioning to avoid any onlooking from neighbours, the standard of intimacy and exclusivity at Velaa is unparalleled.

Last year, 2024, also saw a complete renovation to the villa’s interiors, introducing details from various worldrenowned designers, including Paula Lenti and Davide Groppi, who capitalised on muted tones, creating a calming ambience which permeates through each space of the resort.

An immersive island playground, water lovers can explore the Atoll, taking part in game fishing, or scuba diving sessions in search of sharks and eagle rays.

The resort boasts the Maldives’ only nine-hole golf academy in partnership with, and designed by, two-time Masters Champion José María Olazábal, and guests can also expect tennis, squash and padel courts – including the only covered tennis court in the Maldives.

In addition to Faiy, the resort boasts three spectacular restaurants, two bars – one of which is a Cru Champagne Bar – and the most exclusive wine cellar in the Maldives.

Sri Lankan chef and Culinary Director of Velaa Gaushan De Silva helms Aragu, the first and only Maldivian establishment to have graced Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

velaaprivateisland.com

GETTING TO MALÉ

Wayfarer recommends flying to Malé via Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines, one of the top carriers in Asia which launched flights to the Maldives in mid-2024 after a 10-year absence. Malaysia Airlines offers daily flights to Malé from Kuala Lumpur and in Business Class, you can expect amazing hospitality, comfortable and spacious seats and top-quality inflight dining headlined by the airline’s legendary satay skewers malaysiaairlines.com

Wan Chai standout

Hong Kong is home to many leading luxury, lifestyle and boutique hotels right across the popular city and in the heart of Wan Chai, The Hari stands-out for its style and hospitality, as James Wilkinson discovers.

For many years, Wan Chai has been one of Hong Kong’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, with neon signs and interior design stores home alongside pubs, restaurants, discotheques and Michelinstared local restaurants.

In the heart of it on Lockhart Road is The Hari, a boutique hotel that’s the brainchild of Dr Aron Harilela, the Chairman and CEO of Harilela Hotels, who helped create a stylish and relaxed stay in firmly busting neighbourhood.

The elegant 30-storey hotel features 210 guest rooms including three signature rooftop suites that are firmly a standout in this part of Wan Chai that’s on the edge of Causeway Bay.

The Hari’s interior design comes courtesy of Tara Bernerd, the Founder and CEO of Tara Bernerd and Partners, a leading international interior architecture and design practice based in London, and she’s firmly helped create a hotel that raises the bar on many boutique levels.

When it comes to the rooms, you can expect a stylish open plan design that includes marble bathrooms with a walk-in rainforest shower, 49-inch 4K ultra-HD flat screen TV, Nespresso coffee machine and Mühldorfer’s bedding and luxury linen.

The beds are comfortable, you’ll enjoy the urban views of Wan Chai and the property also offers personalised minibar packages.

A must-do in this property is booking a table on the terrace at Japanese restaurant Zoku, where you’ll find ceiling of angled timber slats in origami-like forms, pink shades and velve alongside delectable dishes, signature cocktails crafted with Japanese ingredients, an excellent sake collection and wines.

Zoku sources seasonal Japanese produce to reimagine classics, ranging from temaki and robata to heartier mains.

This is also a fantastic spot for brunch every Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays from 12 noon to 3 pm.

To kick off the brunch feast, enjoy a Moriwase Sashimi Platter, Wagyu Gyoza and Zoku Nigiris, while for mains, expect dishes such as Toriniku Teryaki (Grilled spring chicken), Hamachi Kama (Yellowtail collar, sweet potato espuma), and Kohitsuji Yaki (Chargrilled lamb chop).

You can also opt for the Lobster Tsukemen (Okinawa Soba, Spicy Soup) or Grilled A5 Miyazaki Wagyu (Kobocha, yellow chili sauce), while there are desserts such as Salted Caramel Sando, Hojicha Creme Brulee and a Strawberry Pistachio Tart.

Alongside Zoku, the hotel is also home to Lucciola Restaurant and Bar and The Lounge off the lobby for coffee, tea, light lunches and cocktails.

While The Hari might not be on the water like many of Hong Kong’s best hotels, it certainly stands out for its style, comfort, food and cocktails and fantastic hospitality in a fun part of the city.

thehari.com

GETTING TO HONG KONG

Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific Airways is one of the world’s leading airlines and flies to over 200 destinations around the world. Leading the way onboard is Cathay Pacific’s Business Class, which continues to be one of our favourite cabins in the sky since it was launched over 10 years ago. The seat can be found on the Airbus A330, Airbus A350-900, Airbus A350-1000 and the flagship Boeing 777-300ER fleet.

cathaypacific.com

Pasadena glamour

Nestled in the heart of Pasadena’s historic and picturesque landscape, The Langham Huntington, has debuted a stylish, new resort pool.

This stylish addition to The Langham Huntington marks a significant enhancement to the renowned hotel’s offerings, providing guests with an unparalleled urban oasis experience in the heart of the city.

The new resort pool embodies sophistication and tranquility, reflecting The Langham’s commitment to luxury and exceptional hospitality, according to The Langham Huntington, Pasadena Managing Director Shane Pateman.

Surrounded by lush gardens and shady palms, he said the pool offers a serene escape for leisure and relaxation.

“We are thrilled to introduce our new resort pool, which represents a blend of elegance and comfort,” Pateman said.

“It serves as a retreat within the bustling city, offering our guests a place to unwind and rejuvenate in style.”

Among its many amenities, The Royce Pool Cabanas stand out as a premium offering for guests seeking a lavish, private poolside experience.

The Cabanas are fitted with modern conveniences, such as TVs, mini refrigerators, ceiling fans and highspeed WiFi.

Pateman said the Royce Pool beautifully complements the historic original Lanai pool, which resides beneath the iconic Picture Bridge.

While the Lanai pool has long been a cherished feature of the hotel, providing a picturesque setting steeped in history, he said the Royce Pool offers a modern counterpoint with its contemporary design and luxurious amenities.

“Together, these two pools embody the perfect harmony of past and present, enhancing the overall guest experience at The Langham Huntington, Pasadena,” he said.

langhamhotels.com

GETTING TO LOS ANGELES

Fiji Airways flies Los Angeles via the airline’s hub in Nadi from Adelaide, Auckland, Brisbane, Christchurch, Melbourne, San Francisco, Singapore, Sydney, Wellington and across the South Pacific. The flights are operated by Fiji Airways’ world class fleet, which includes the flagship Airbus A350900, headlined by the carrier’s all-new Business Class that features flatbed seats with all-aisle access. fijiairways.com

New Auckland luxury

In the heart of New Zealand’s largest city, InterContinental Auckland made a stunning debut in 2024 at the billion-dollar Commercial Bay lifestyle precinct, which houses the city’s latest upscale office, retail, social, and dining hub. Since opening, the 139-room luxury property has won global awards and stands tall as one of the nation’s best new hotels. To find out more, James Wilkinson checkedin and spoke to InterContinental Auckland General Manager, Ryan South.

InterContinental Auckland is popular on so many levels, from the location to the club lounge, design, rooms and food and beverage on offer. Tell us about your favourite things of the property.

A standout feature for me is our Club InterContinental. This space offers a perfect balance of exclusivity and comfort. Whether you’re here for leisure or business, the space is designed to elevate your stay with tailored experiences, breathtaking views of the Waitematā Harbour, and an ambiance that feels both inviting and refined. From personalised check-ins to all-day refreshments and evening canapés, every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to deliver the ultimate in luxury.

Ryan, tell us about the stylish rooms and suites on offer, including the great views of Waitematā Harbour.

Our rooms and suites redefine modern luxury with their elegant design, luxury amenities, and breathtaking views

of the Waitematā Harbour. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the spaces with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere to relax or recharge. Each room is outfitted with Byredo amenities, offering a touch of indulgence, and each Suite features deep soaking baths for the ultimate unwind after a day of exploring Auckland.

The interiors blend contemporary sophistication with natural textures, echoing the beauty of our surrounding landscape. Whether you’re staying in a Classic Room or one of our stunning Suites (the Presidential Suite is my top pick), you’ll find plush bedding, smart technology, and intuitive touches that cater to all travellers, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable stay.

Tell us about the fantastic food and beverage on offer, which is some of the best in Auckland.

Our signature restaurant, Advieh, is inspired by the rich and vibrant flavours of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean

cuisine, it’s a celebration of bold spices and carefully sourced local ingredients. Our partner chef, Gareth Stewart, has made sure that each dish tells a story, blending contemporary techniques with the traditions of Middle Eastern gastronomy. Advieh’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed, with the restaurant proudly earning accolades such as a prestigious Hat and ‘Hotel Restaurant of the Year’ title at the 2024 Cuisine Good Food Awards, cementing its place as one of Auckland’s top dining destinations.

Beyond Advieh, the culinary opportunities continue at Commercial Bay. Just steps from the hotel, you’ll find over 40 local and international food vendors, featuring everything from specialty coffee to lively bars and waterfront restaurants. With a diverse range of cuisines and renowned chefs at the helm, you’ll never be short of exceptional dining options.

What’s your x-factor at InterContinental Auckland?

Our x-factor is undeniably our people. Their passion, dedication, and commitment to excellence are what truly set us apart. Every team member, whether in front of guests or behind the scenes, plays a vital role in delivering the seamless, personalised service we are known for. It’s this collective energy, passion, and attention to detail that leave a lasting impression and define the InterContinental Auckland experience.

Another key x-factor is our prime location. Located at the prestigious 1 Queen Street and as part of the vibrant Commercial Bay precinct, we are surrounded by endless possibilities. Commercial Bay features over 120 luxury fashion and beauty retail stores, eateries, restaurants, and bars, offering the perfect destination for dining, relaxing, shopping, and enjoying a night out, all set against the stunning backdrop of Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour.

Favourite things to do in the local area?

Auckland offers something for everyone. Within the city, you can explore vibrant shopping precincts like Commercial Bay, stroll along the waterfront, wine and dine your way around the city or visit galleries and museums. But if I’m honest, I’m all about looking for a bit of adventure. My dream day would be heading out of the city to surf at Muriwai or sailing on Auckland Harbour. It’s this seamless mix of urban energy and outdoor adventure that makes Auckland such a special and dynamic destination.

ihg.com

GETTING TO AUCKLAND

Qantas flies to Auckland, New Zealand from across Australia, with many capital city flights operated by widebody Airbus A330 and Boeing 787-9 aircraft that feature the airline’s signature suite-style Business Class seats that can be reclined for take-off and landing, fantastic meals, premium Australian wines and one of the best in-flight entertainment systems in the sky. qantas.com

A Prince in New York

Japan’s Seibu Prince Hotels and Resorts recently unveiled The Prince Kitano New York following a year’s renovation and the result is stunning.

Formerly known as The Kitano Hotel New York, the refreshed property opened in December 2023 and now sits within The Prince portfolio, the company’s flagship hotel brand characterised by exceptional elegance, comfort and privacy.

The Prince Kitano New York is Seibu Prince Hotels and Resorts’ first property located in the continental United States, marking a significant step forward in the company’s ongoing evolution from a top Japanese hotel brand to a global hospitality powerhouse.

“Following years of success in Japan, the opening of The Prince Kitano New York is an important landmark in the next chapter of Seibu Prince Hotels and Resorts,” said Seibu Prince Hotels and Resorts’ President and CEO, Yoshiki Kaneda.

“The brand has built an incredible reputation through decades of championing omotenashi, which has brought authentic Japanese hospitality to travellers around the world.

“With the opening of The Prince Kitano New York, we hope to deliver this unique guest experience to one of the greatest cities in the world and propel the brand further into the global spotlight,” Kaneda said.

Located at 66 Park Avenue, The Prince Kitano New York is centrally positioned with convenient access to the Grand Central Terminal, the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building and other iconic landmarks.

The property boasts a legacy dating back to the 19th century when the building was owned by the Rockefeller family. In 1973, it found new life as The Kitano Hotel New York, gaining renown as the first Japanese-owned hotel in New York City.

Now operated by Seibu Prince Hotels and Resorts, The Prince Kitano New York will continue to pay homage to its deep history combined with the heartfelt hospitality and luxurious experiences rooted in Japanese culture.

To spearhead the redesign of several signature spaces throughout the property, Seibu Prince Hotels and Resorts tapped global architecture firm Modellus Novus, who has worked on other high-profile projects such as James Beard Award-winning chef Kwame Onwuachi’s restaurant Tatiana at Lincoln Center.

As a result, the lobby, restaurant areas and guestrooms have been revitalised with a modernised yet timeless look, reflecting the enduring esteem and heritage of the property.

Upon entering the building, guests are greeted by an impressive dog sculpture made by the world-famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero.

The bronze sculpture, having welcomed generations of guests who established a tradition of petting it for good fortune, was shifted to the lobby’s entrance as its pièce de résistance.

The hotel boasts 150 accommodations, including 109 guestrooms and suites that have been refurbished as part of the reopening.

Reaching up to 89 square metres, the revamped rooms were enhanced with a warm colour palette, lush fabrics and unique artwork to create an inviting and restful atmosphere for guests to find respite from the city bustle.

Further nodding to the hotel’s cultural roots, The Prince Kitano New York offers culinary destinations onsite that will undoubtedly add to the city’s vibrant restaurant scene.

On the lower floor sits Hakubai, a refined restaurant that harmoniously merges traditional craftsmanship with familiar contemporary designs.

Brought to life by Executive Chef Jun Hiramatsu, this traditional dining experience transforms the finest seasonal meats, seafood and produce from local and Japanese purveyors into elegant courses through a variety of culinary techniques.

The hotel’s daytime dining destination, Hillside Café is open for breakfast and lunch, which celebrates the convergence of cultures through a menu of fresh and comforting fare with American and Japanese influences.

In the evening, Roof at 66 Park, the rooftop bar on the 18th floor, offers craft cocktails, fine wines and shareable gourmet bites against the backdrop of the cityscape.

While taking in the unbeatable panoramas of the city’s towering skyscrapers from the bar’s wraparound terraces, discerning epicureans have the opportunity to sample rare Japanese whiskeys.

princehotels.com

GETTING THERE

Wayfarer recommends flying to New York in Air Canada’s brilliant Signature Service Business Class, which ensures customers will receive priority service at every stage of the journey, including access to airport concierge services, expedited check-in and security clearance, priority baggage handling and preferential boarding. Air Canada Signature Service is the carrier’s end-to-end premium travel experience featuring the Air Canada Signature Class cabin. aircanada.com

Wonderof Veli

In recent years, the makeover of the Anantara Veli Maldives Resort has been so magnificent, you could be mistaken for thinking you’ve arrived at a brand new hotel. Here, the hospitality, style and experience is so good, you’ll want to book your next trip before you depart. To find out why, James Wilkinson checks in and catches up with Anantara Veli Maldives Resort and Complex General Manager, Michael Parker.

Anantara Veli Maldives Resort is popular on so many levels, from the location to the pools, design, rooms and food and beverage on offer. Tell us about your favourite things of the property.

The vibe on Veli always makes me smile, an amazingly diverse mix of guests from around the world enjoying time away from the hustle and bustle of life for a break. The approach on Veli is super casual, flip flops or shoes are optional, barefoot is the best way to wander around the island.

The restaurant and bar offerings are also unbeatable, with 10 options to choose from and special events every night you can stay for two weeks and not having the same dining experience twice during your stay – unless if you choose to, of course.

Our Michelin guest chef series is fabulous, each month we bring a different Michelin-starred chef to the resort who cooks dinner for 20 guests. I love that guests are now looking at the dates for the event on our website and booking their holidays around this. They are the most fantastic dinners and a fabulous opportunity for our team to work and learn from a different Michelin-starred chef every month.

Tell us about the stylish rooms and suites on offer, which recently had a makeover.

All the villas were fully refurbished recently and offer a fantastic blend of Maldivian tradition and modern requirements, the new beach villas have large private pools with direct access to the lagoon from the beach whilst the overwater villas offer a more traditional Maldives experience with options with and without pools.

The key is the attention to detail, the in-room bars always have ice in the cooler, a cocktail shaker for the perfect espresso martini and a fresh lime for the best G&T.

Tell us about the fantastic food and beverage on offer, which is some of the best in the Maldives.

The day starts in Veli with the most amazing breakfast in Cumin, a la carte service with every dish imaginable served freshly to your table, the traditional Maldivian breakfast is a must! For those that prefer a fantastic buffet this is also an option in Antara Dhigu Maldives Resort which is a twominute pontoon journey away.

Lunch is a chilled affair at Dhoni bar with a lively vibe from Friday to Sunday with brunch and our resident DJ from mid-day to 4pm.

Veli has three amazing restaurants from Japanese at Origami, tapas at Dhoni Bar and the fabulous South Asian cuisine in Cumin which serves Maldivian, Indian and Sri Lankan foods – the tandoori lamb chop starters are fabulous.

Guests also have access to Anantara Dhigu which is a twominute pontoon journey away offering Aqua with Italian cuisine, internationally-themed buffet at Fushi Café and the newly refurbished Sea.Fire.Salt. which serves premium dry aged beef, flown in freshly from Australia along with local fresh catch of the day and lobsters. Our new adults-only bar, The Yellow Fin Club sits above Sea.Fire.Salt., where our resident mixologist, Don makes the most amazing cocktails using fresh ingredients from the sea.

What’s your x-factor at Anantara Veli Maldives Resort?

Sitting on the deck in front of the sea at Cumin enjoying breakfast, watching the early morning surfers out on the wave. Plus, the sushi and sashimi Dhoni boat platter for dinner in Origami.

Favourite activities to do at and from the resort?

That’s easy, the nurse shark snorkelling, it’s a quick 30-minute journey from the hotel and to swim with these majestic creatures is incredible, added that you see an array of other fish and a few stingrays, and the odd turtle makes this a trip you will never forget.

anantara.com

GETTING TO MALÉ

Wayfarer flew to Malé via Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines, one of the top carriers in Asia which launched flights to the Maldives in mid-2024 after a 10-year absence. Malaysia Airlines offers daily flights to Malé from Kuala Lumpur and in Business Class, you can expect amazing hospitality, comfortable and spacious seats and top-quality inflight dining headlined by the airline’s legendary satay skewers. malaysiaairlines.com

Appetite.

Hot tables, bars and drinks brands from across the world.

Southern flair in Atlanta

The Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead has appointed Chef Bermyson to the role of Executive Chef, overseeing all aspects of the luxury property’s culinary offerings.

Alongside Chef Bermyson’s arrival, the property has also welcomed Chef Keith Hyche, who will serve as Chef de Cuisine of the property’s signature brasserie-style restaurant, Brassica.

Chef Bermyson will oversee all aspects of culinary operations as Chef Keith works in tandem to introduce the new chapter of culinary offerings at Brassica.

Chef Bermyson’s passion is deeply rooted in his upbringing and Caribbean heritage. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Cap-Haitian, Haiti, he draws inspiration from his family, particularly his uncle, whose

kitchen was a haven of culinary knowledge and passed traditions during his formative years.

Chef Bermyson brings extensive experience in luxury hospitality and fine dining, with his most recent role as Chef de Cuisine of The St. Regis Atlanta.

“As Executive Chef, my goal is to enhance the dining experience for every guest at The Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead,” said Chef Bermyson.

“By upholding the highest standards of luxury and collaborating closely with my team, I aim to bring new excitement to the hotel’s culinary journey by enhancing Brassica with a fresh perspective, expanded in-room dining offerings and our afternoon tea services.” hilton.com

Fiji Airways' Chef's Table at Nadi Airport takes off

Fiji Airways has elevated the dining offering at Nadi International Airport with the introduction of the ‘Chef’s Table’, a unique pre-flight experience that showcases some of the best food the nation has to offer.

Fiji Airways CEO and Managing Director Andre Viljoen said the Chef’s Table was designed to immerse travellers in the rich history and cultural diversity of Fiji.

He said the new four-course culinary offering is served in a private dining space within the National Airline’s lounge at Nadi Airport and offers travellers a journey through Fijian gastronomic excellence before they catch their flight.

The fine dining experience features a cocktail or mocktail on arrival, followed by a tasting platter, appetiser, main course and dessert.

In a farm-to-table approach, the bespoke menu will change throughout the year to feature the freshest seasonal produce direct from local farmers and markets, according to Viljoen.

Aviator style at Thistle Heathrow

Clermont Hotel Group, the largest hotel owner-operator in London, has introduced the stylish Aviator Sports Bar and Restaurant at the company’s popular Thistle Heathrow Terminal 5 hotel.

The opening of Aviator Sports Bar and Restaurant comes following in a £240,000 investment in the property and it’s a fantastic spot for lunch or dinner before heading off from Heathrow Terminal 5 on a British Airways flight.

Aviator Sports Bar and Restaurant offers a range of top-quality meals – from a delicious must-have fish and chips to excellent stone-baked pizzas, burgers, sandwiches and more – in a stylish and very British setting.

The venue also has a pool table and screens for showing sport from TNT and Amazon, and room for 100 in the bar area and 100 in the restaurant.

“Extensive research revealed that there is a clear desire for our guests to be able to kick back, relax and switch into holidaymode as soon as they check in, even if they are staying with us

“The Chef’s Table is a culinary journey that celebrates the essence of Fiji and redefines the expectations of airport lounge dining,” he said.

“Our talented local chefs have combined traditional Fijian cooking methods with modern culinary techniques to delight your senses with every course. Each dish will reveal a story about Fiji, paying homage to the nation’s people, its myriad of cultures and its rich history.

“At Fiji Airways, we believe that every aspect of the travel experience should be exceptional, and our new Chef’s Table fine dining offering reflects our commitment to providing our guests with unparalleled service,” Viljoen said.

The Fiji Airways Chef’s Table can be booked with more than 24 hours’ notice and in addition to culinary excellence, Chef’s Table guests get complimentary access to the Fiji Airways Premier Lounge, complete with state-of-the-art amenities to unwind and relax. fijiairways.com

just one night ahead of jetting off on holiday,” said Clermont Hotel Group Sales and Marketing Director, Marc Saunders.

“Alongside this desire for a quality food and beverage offering, there was also a clear need to create a multi-functional space with entertainment elements, which is why we have incorporated screens and a pool table – and inspired by its airport location, the Aviator Sports Bar and Restaurant was created.” thistle.com

Sofitel Singapore City Centre’s brilliant new menu

Racines at Sofitel Singapore City Centre recently unveiled a new menu that celebrates the harmony of French and Asian cuisines.

Thoughtfully crafted to surprise and intrigue, the refreshed selection highlights the fresh flavours of natural ingredients with light, delicate touches.

Our pick of the new dishes is the Racines Lobster Bisque (SG$43), which blends French tradition with sustainable practices. French butter and brandy infuse the broth with rich depth, while lemongrass adds an aromatic Asian flair. Served with half a Boston lobster, the dish follows a zero-waste philosophy — lobster shells are used to create a flavourful stock, while claw trimmings serve as garnish. accorhotels.com

A culinary journey at Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills

Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills is one of Hyatt’s leading hotels in Japan and in many parts thanks to the fantastic food and beverage offerings across the property.

The hotel’s Managing Director, Guillaume Paupy, says Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills boasts five exceptional restaurants and bars, each offering a unique atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

“Begin your journey at The Tavern Grill and Lounge on the 51st floor, where the vibrant ambiance and culinary delights evolve throughout the day,” he says.

“Indulge in a lavish breakfast buffet, a delectable lunch, and a thoughtfully

curated dinner at the restaurant, while the lounge is celebrated for its seasonal afternoon teas, expertly crafted cocktails, and live music that fills the night air.”

On the floor above is one of Tokyo’s true hidden gems and best rooftop bars in Japan.

“The Rooftop Bar on the 52nd floor elevates your experience with innovative cocktails infused with Japanese flavours, upbeat music, and breathtaking views from the semi-open air terrace,” Paupy says.

“Adjacent to the Rooftop Bar, ‘the SUSHI’ offers an intimate omakase experience with just eight counter seats.

Here, guests can witness the sushi master’s artistry as they skilfully prepare each exquisite piece.”

The experience is rounded out by two great spots on the ground floor of the hotel as well.

“On the ground floor, BeBu serves up an American comfort food menu and happy hour drinks in the evening, making it the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a relaxing evening unwind,” Paupy says.

“Next door, the Pastry Shop tempts with a delightful array of seasonal sweets and cakes, perfect for an afternoon treat or a charming petit afternoon tea.”

hyatt.com

MGallery partners with Maison Sarah Lavoine

Accor’s boutique hotel collection MGallery has partnered with French lifestyle brand, Maison Sarah Lavoine, to launch an exclusive glassware set.

The three cocktail glasses, includes a tumbler and two coupes in playful colours, have been paired with a trio of limited-edition cocktails from Citadelle Gin, that can be enjoyed at MGallery bars across the world until August 31.

The glassware has been designed to reflect the essence of each brand, featuring “MGallery’s distinctive diagonal geometric pattern, set against Maison Sarah Lavoine’s exclusive Pantone colours, including the infamous Sarah Blue”.

“Each MGallery property tells a unique story – one of elegance, storied heritage, and soulful design,” said Maison Sarah Lavoine Founder and Creative CEO, Sarah Poniatowski. accorhotels.com

70

London Calling

The hotel scene in the British capital is thriving

78

Legends of Paris

We check in to three of Paris’ leading hotels

86

Utah’s powder paradise

Why Park City has become America’s hottest winter playground

TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE.

Guides to some of the world’s hottest destinations, hotels, cars, accessories and much more.

100

Orchard delights

Singapore’s Orchard district has undergone a hotel renaissance 108

Wild Ceylon

For years Sri Lanka has been one of the world’s most underrated destinations 114

California cool

Five luxury hotels that need to be on your Los Angeles hit list

126

Rustic luxury

Soneva Kiri offers an Thailand escape that’s barefoot luxury at its finest

130

Business leaders

Reviews of six of the world’s best Business Class cabins

162

One fine stay London's luxurious Berkeley hotel

Lounging around in Hong Kong before flying Cathay Pacific’s brilliant Business Class (p130)

LONDON CALLING

The hotel scene in the British capital is thriving and we go inside several properties that need to be on your travel list.

The Peninsula London

The Peninsula London welcomed the first guests in September 2023 and since then, the luxury and elegant property at one of the city’s grandest junctures – where Hyde Park Corner meets Wellington Arch – has continued to firmly be one of Europe’s finest hotels ever built. To find out what makes the property so unique, The Peninsula London Managing Director, Rolf Buehlmann, sat down with James Wilkinson in the British Capital recently.

Rolf, The Peninsula London made a spectacular debut is popular on so many levels, from the location to the lobby, design, rooms and food and beverage on offer. Tell us about your favourite things of the property.

The location is truly special. The hotel is ideally situated in Belgravia, with views over Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch, and is within walking distance of many iconic landmarks including 3 Royal Parks, Mayfair, Knightsbridge, the museum district, the West End and Buckingham Palace. We feel fortunate to have found this location after 30 years of searching for a perfect location in London.

We really want to embrace Best of British craftsmanship, working with quintessentially British artisans and designers such as Jenny Packham on our uniforms, The Royal Drawing School for art in our guest rooms, Timothy Han on our amenity fragrances, and the Archer Humphryes designed Brooklands. As with all Peninsula Hotels, we endeavour to become part of the local fabric, and here in London have therefore partnered with organisations such as The Prince’s Trust and the British Fashion Council, amongst others. It is a true privilege to celebrate and showcase British art, culture, culinary, and design within the hotel.

Tell us about the stylish and spectacular rooms and suites on offer at The Peninsula London.

Space can be one of life’s great luxuries, particularly in London, and it is one of the key features that sets The Peninsula London apart. This is a hotel of space and light; and as a new build we had the wonderful opportunity to maximise natural light in all our guest rooms including of course wonderful views.

Our Deluxe Rooms, starting at 50 square meters, are the size of many suites in the city, offering separate dressing rooms and spacious bathrooms. With the hotel being purpose built, we focused on thoughtful design, which allows us to connect rooms and privatise corridors, offering families and groups more privacy and comfort when they travel together.

Our four signature suites all have something unique to offer: The Peninsula Suite, which is the hotel’s largest, includes a private screening room and gym.

The Grand Terrace Suite has a living room and vast terrace from which guests can enjoy sunset views over London’s rooftops, The Arch Suite features a fireplace, spacious living and dressing rooms and dramatic direct views onto Wellington Arch and The Belgravia Suite is set on the top floor, with a private terrace and baby grand piano.

The classic décor, designed by architect Peter Marino, is elegant, understated and timeless. Our suites have an undeniably residential feeling, with natural tones and textures as well as original art commissioned from Royal Drawing School artists.

Floor to ceiling windows, vistas over Hyde Park, Wellington Arch or London’s skyline and private terraces from the fifth floor up, bring the outside in, and flood suites with light. State-of-the-art in-room technology, which includes bedside touchscreen controls for lighting and temperature, personal devices TV streaming, and PenChat, a 24-hour dedicated e-concierge service, make a suite stay seamless.

Tell us about the fantastic food and beverage on offer, which is some of the best in any London hotel. Our rooftop restaurant, Brooklands by Claude Bosi, is a celebration of the best of British produce sourced from handpicked suppliers around the country. Chef Bosi and Chef Francesco take great pride and passion in exploring the British Isles from farms to fishing ports, and butchers to bakers, to source the finest ingredients. We were humbled to receive two Michelin stars within just four months of opening. Accompanying the restaurant is also Brooklands Bar which overlooks the London skyline with a panoramic vista from St Pauls to Westminster.

Canton Blue is our signature Cantonese restaurant that celebrates the cultural exchange between ancient Canton and Britain. Both the menu and design of the restaurant are a dialogue of East meets West, with traditional Cantonese dishes prepared with the Best of British ingredients. Its adjacent cocktail bar, Little Blue, offers innovative cocktails inspired by the spice-trade union of Asian and British cultures.

Other world-class dining and drinks can be enjoyed in The Lobby for our traditional Peninsula Afternoon Tea, served beneath soaring ceilings and accompanied by live music every afternoon. We also have a more casual offering at The Peninsula Boutique and Café for grab and go delights.

How important is loyalty, particularly given the high return guest percentage you have?

At Peninsula we take a long-term view of things and having guests choose to come back to stay with us again and again, sometimes over generations, is a wonderful compliment.

Here in London we are of course in the very early stages of building these relationships and connections and we are pleased that many guests who usually stay at other Peninsula properties have come to London to try us out. We do not take brand loyalty for granted and are very grateful for our guests’ trust.

What’s your x-factor at The Peninsula London?

I believe the team’s dedication to service is what truly distinguishes us. The Peninsula’s approach to hospitality is deeply rooted in our heritage, our desire to deliver

excellence and to make our guests feel welcome to “their” new home here in London.

From in-room amenities and cutting-edge technology to inspiring arts programs and cultural experiences, every detail is meticulously crafted, but it is the team connecting with our guests that truly brings our beautifully designed hotel to life.

Rolf, what are some of your favourite things to do in the local area?

Belgravia, even though it is home to many shops, pubs, embassies and residences, can have a real village feeling at times and I enjoy going for walks in our local neighbourhood and discovering new nooks and crannies that I hadn’t noticed before.

My favourite not-so-hidden gem has got to be Apsley House, originally named ‘No 1 London’, the home of the Duke of Wellington with its fascinating history and beautiful design, just opposite The Peninsula London.

peninsula.com

AKA Marylebone

In the heart of London’s vibrant Marylebone, AKA has turned the former home of MI5 agents into some elegant serviced residences, including a three-bedroom townhouse that’s in high demand.

AKA has further invested in its London presence with a major renovation programme at its signature serviced residences set in an elegant and historic 1920s townhouse in the heart of picturesque Marylebone.

Once the home of infamous MI5 agents Anthony Blunt and Guy Burgess, the beautifully-restored property comprises eight one and two-bedroom suites – each one set on its own private floor – all with bespoke furnishings, sumptuous linens, luxury bath amenities and a range of home comforts from in-suite laundry and spa-style bathrooms with heated floors to fully equipped gourmet kitchens.

AKA Marylebone also includes a standalone duplex Mews house with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, chef’s kitchen, private entrance, study and its own enclosed private garage.

Designed for both business and leisure guests, 5 Bentinck Street has the feel and convenience of a luxury hotel with the privacy of home-away-from-home apartment living.

“We pride ourselves in identifying, creating and transforming truly standout properties like the beautiful Georgian townhouse in Marylebone,” said AKA CEO, Larry Korman.

“But of course, it never ends there and what really elevates our residences is the warmth and professionalism of our services teams who can help fulfil all manner of personal requests and frequently develop wonderful relationships with our guests.”

AKA VP of Design, Nicholas Cardone, has created inspiring spaces through luxurious soft furnishings, new window settings and stylish accessories and lighting in partnership with the design team at Heal’s UK featuring

key pieces from designers including Knoll, Ligne Roset, Case, EOS, Kartell and Chelsea’s handmade rug maker, Christopher Farr.

“In such an elegant property in the heart of Marylebone’s Design District, our goal was to offer premium design-driven experiences, highly attentive service and world-class amenities,” said Cardone.

“We have worked diligently and with our signature AKA creative passion to create a relaxing, liveable and luxury residential ambience.”

The AKA Marylebone residences feature warm tones and colours throughout with sleek materials and clean lines to create an atmosphere of harmony and peace.

AKA has collaborated with Leigh Studios for a hand selection of works that bring pigments of dreamy blues and greys and tones of metal and stone expressing a distinct sense of materiality.

All the replaced furniture has been donated to Emmaus Greenwich, the charity devoted to providing a home and meaningful work for people who formerly suffered from homelessness.

From gourmet coffee and tea services to complimentary access to the acclaimed Third Space health club in Marylebone the AKA amenities are carefully curated.

There is a 24-hour front desk, an on-site Resident Services Team who can help with personal requests and exclusive lifestyle services from restaurant and West End bookings to personal shopper experiences, insuite dining, same- day valet dry-cleaning and laundry services and chauffeured airport transportation, car rentals and limousine services.

stayaka.com

Pan Pacific London

Pan Pacific London’s recent debut in the British Capital was one of most spectacular openings the Singapore hotel group has ever done, thanks to an offering that is luxurious, enticing, relaxing and contemporary. James Wilkinson checks in and speaks exclusively to Pan Pacific London General Manager, Anne Golden.

When the Pan Pacific London was first announced it was always going to be one of Britain’s most exciting new luxury projects thanks to its location at One Bishopsgate, a 2-minute walk from Liverpool Street Station, and becoming Pan Pacific Hotels Group’s first property in Europe.

The Pan Pacific properties across the globe have been known for their Singaporean hospitality, contemporary design and fantastic food and beverage and you can find that on an elevated experience at this fantastic new hotel.

Headlining the property, designed by Yabu Pushelberg, are the 237 luxurious guest rooms, including 42 suites and a signature Pan Pacific Suite, the Ginger Lily bar, Straits Kitchen restaurant, luxurious day spa and epic 18.5-metre indoor infinity pool that’s fast become one of the most spectacular in London.

Anne, what makes Pan Pacific London one of the British Capital’s best new luxury hotels?

Our people and their unwavering commitment to kindness, inclusiveness and the warmest welcome. Our hotel is beautiful, with gorgeous designs by Yabu Pushelberg and a calm muted palette serve as a perfect backdrop for our ethos of ‘service from the heart’.

What makes the hotel so unique?

We bring a little slice of Singapore to London through our service culture, cuisine, design and service touch points. One example of this is that on your day of departure, as a guest, you are welcome to keep using the hotel facilities until such time as you need to leave to go home.

We don’t just look after your bags after your noon checkout, we look after you as well. At Pan Pacific London you never stop being our guest. We like to think that this contributes to our exceptionally high repeat guest ratio. We love welcoming back so many familiar faces.

Tell us about the stylish rooms and suites on offer at Pan Pacific London.

Our rooms are the facilitator of the residential guest experience. Small touches such as indulgent bathrobes (so many guests ask to take them home), underfloor heating in the bathroom and luxurious king size beds make staying at Pan Pacific London a relaxing experience.

However, the guests tell us that their favourite thing is to keep the curtains open and fall asleep amongst the twinkling lights of the City and its landmarks. The panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows afford a mesmerising view of the cityscape and create a magical environment in which to drift off to sleep.

You have some fantastic bars, restaurants and cafes on offer. Tell us about them.

Food evokes nostalgia and we have created a menu at Straits Kitchen

GETTING TO LONDON

Wayfarer flew to London via Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines, one of the top carriers in Asia. Malaysia Airlines offers double daily flights to London from Kuala Lumpur and in business class, you can expect amazing hospitality, comfortable and spacious seats and top-quality inflight dining headlined by the airline’s legendary satay skewers. It’s an exciting time for Malaysia Airlines at present, with the oneworld carrier continuing to launch new routes across the globe. Malaysia Airlines also offers a free side trip stopover to one of seven different destinations in Malaysia and has upped the ante when it comes to dining and comfort in Business Class. malaysiaairlines.com

that will transport you to South East Asia to sample all of its rich flavours and colour.

There are heritage dishes such as Hainanese Chicken rice (a top favourite) and my personal favourite – the lobster nonya Laksa which is heaven in a bowl. The Sunday Roast at Straits Kitchen is unique and so popular, a South East Asian version of this wonderful British tradition.

We have several bars which each offer unique experiences. Straits Bar pays homage to the traditional flavours of the region creating beautiful mocktails and cocktails with yuzu and spices.

Then there’s Ginger Lily, nestled next to The Orchid Lounge on the ground floor and is home to over 150 mouth-watering rums which are made into refreshing rum cocktails.

Anne, what is the hotel’s x-factor? Without a doubt it is our people. The warmth of our welcome and the care and attention that each member of the team shows to our guests is mentioned time and again in our reviews.

What I am most proud of is the genuine level of detail that goes into ensuring that everyone leaves feeling rejuvenated and respected. When little things are missed our service recovery is genuine, the team respect each other and that shines through in the respect and warmth they show our guests.

What are some of your favourite things to do in the area?

A walk to the River Thames (10 minutes away) and on the way back a visit to Brick Lane for a curry, my favourite restaurant feels like walking back into the 1970’s and is so nostalgic and reassuringly consistent in quality and service.

The street food near Brick Lane is so good – the Greek kebabs are fabulous. I also love the gelato at Eataly, the Jamaican Patties are amazing (Jamaica Patty Co.) in Liverpool Street and Spitalfields market takes some beating for atmosphere and lucky finds.

panpacific.com

LEGENDS OF PARIS

The City of Light had its incredible highlight last year by hosting the Olympic Games and Paris is truly back to its majestic best with remodelled hotels, restored landmarks and refined gardens across the capital of fashion and culture. The city is home to some of Europe’s best hotels and Wayfarer checks in to three that need to be high on the list for your next visit.

Le Meurice

When it comes to hotels in France, few can boast the iconic, legendary and luxurious status of Le Meurice, a celebrity favourite and the location for many top Hollywood films, including Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris.

Le Meurice has some of the most spacious rooms in the Paris, alongside an incredible location and to find out more, Wayfarer checked-in and caught up with Le Meurice General Manager, Franka Holtmann.

Franka, tell us about your favourite things of this amazing property?

There are so many things to say, but one of the most obvious is probably the perfect mix of heritage and modernity. Le Meurice combines 18th-century splendours with the most innovative modern comforts, for example hand-painted Gournay wallpapers, stained glass windows by Duchemin or straw marquetry by Lison de Caunes.

Technology is intuitive and everything has been thought to make you feel like in a stunning Parisian apartment with attention to detail and exceptional fabrics like. Prelle, a renowned silk manufacturer from Lyon since 1752.

Ideally located opposite the Tuileries gardens, between Place de la Concorde and the Louvre, Le Meurice provides a haven of tranquillity to countless important personalities since it opened in 1835.

Tell us more about the stylish rooms and suites on offer. We entrusted Charles Jouffre with the renovations of the rooms and suites. I have been working with him for some time now.

For the latest renovations, he called on a young designer couple, Margaux Lally and Luc Berger, with whom we have selected fine fabrics from Rubelli, Toyine Sellers or Veraseta, bespoke furniture from Charles Jouffre and some beautiful artwork from Carole Benzaken and others to design harmonious Parisian apartments with opulent surroundings.

The most talented French craftsmen have been gathered to give credit to our French savoir-faire.

One of our most requested rooms is the Executive Balcony Room 605 facing the Tuileries gardens. It is an attic room on the sixth floor kept as a Parisian apartment in a classical French style.

The goal was to create a very calm ambience where you can feel a sense of relief while enjoying the view over the gardens.

The unique twist of this room is the beautiful hand painted wallpaper from de Gournay of exceptional quality with themes and patterns of the natural world as an echo to the Tuileries.

Franka, tell us about the fantastic food and beverage on offer, which is some of the best in any Paris hotel. It is my second experience with Alain Ducasse and I would consider him as a pioneer and visionary. His culture and curiosity allow him to be always ahead of the curve.

As a skilled and decisive captain, he federates our teams led by Executive Chef Amaury Bouhours who takes them constantly up to the next level proposing new challenges.

His focus is on the product and those who provide it; he always would prefer seasonal culinary experiences to exotic creations and is an adept of authentic taste while offering a global experience where every detail counts.

Alain Ducasse and Bouhours aim to defend the culinary French heritage that is similar to the identity of Le Meurice where we strive to combine tradition and modernity.

The dining experience is of course about what is on the plate – and Chef Clémentine Bouchon from Le Dalí masters this art at its finest by sublimating and transforming the best ingredients into tasteful dishes – but also about the ambience.

Whereas Le Dalí is the vibrant heart of the hotel and offers the guest a magnificent spectacle of palace life, the gastronomic restaurant elevates the dining experience to another dimension.

There are so many I can think of, but what’s your x-factor at Le Meurice?

It has one of the most incredible penthouse suites on the seventh floor, designed in a contemporary style and featuring a 360-degree view from the landscaped terrace offering spectacular views to iconic landmarks but also to the famous zinc rooftops of Paris.

With our interior designers Lally and Berger, we have selected the best artisans to make this place a harmonious Parisian apartment with enchanting surroundings. The hot spot is the marbled bathroom where you can see Sacré Cœur while taking a bath in the oversized tub. In this unique suite, Paris is yours.

Franka, what are your favourite things to do in the local area?

I like crossing the street and strolling through ‘our’ Tuileries Gardens to take a breath of fresh air which is very valuable in a big city like Paris.

Of course, some shopping could also be part of the plan. And for that, rue Saint-Honoré – right behind the hotel – is for sure the best neighbourhood to find chic and classic French boutiques.

Still, I would probably make a five minutes’ walk detour to the Palais Royal, strolling around this very typical Parisian area where you can find exceptional shops, galleries and authentic cafés facing the apartment of French writer Colette.

From there, it is only a stone’s throw away to the Bourse de Commerce that offers amazing contemporary art exhibitions which are part of the private collection of François Pinault.

Finally, to end with this most perfect day, I would love to attend a representation at the Comédie Française or at the Opera followed by a sparkling midnight drink at their CoCo bar.

dorchestercollection.com

Sofitel Paris le Faubourg

A few paces from the boutiques of the legendary Faubourg Saint-Honoré and the iconic Place de la Concorde the heart of the elegant 8th arrondissement, Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg commands an incredible location in the heart of the city of light.

At the Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg, you can stay in an 18th-century mansion that blends history, luxury and fashion in a style that Sofitel has become famous the world over for.

“Between the prestigious Place de la Concorde, the mythical Champs-Elysées and the elegant Faubourg Saint-Honoré, the Sofitel Paris le Faubourg embodies the City of fashion, art and luxury,” said Sofitel Paris le Faubourg General Manager, Béatrice Schopflin.

“Indulge in the refinement of a 18th century private mansion and enjoy the stunning decoration by Didier Gomez and the “couture” inspiration of the 148 rooms and suites.

“Here you can savour delicious moments at Maison Blossom, our traditional French restaurant, or in our very fashionable bar.

“With exhibitions dedicated to fashion and arts and crafts, with a haute-couture library, the Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg is a destination in itself,” she said.

It has been an exciting time of late for the Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg with the introduction of Maison Blossom, the new name and face of its signature restaurant.

But this transformation goes far beyond aesthetics: Maison Blossom has become a true Parisian home, offering traditional, generous, and refined French cuisine that embodies the very essence of l’art de vivre.

Just steps from the lively Rue du Faubourg SaintHonoré, Maison Blossom reveals itself like a wellkept secret.

Beyond the grand carriage entrance of Sofitel Paris

Le Faubourg lies a soft, light-filled haven where calm prevails – a serene blend of understated luxury and cultivated nature.

The winter garden, bathed in natural light, and the patio with its graceful wrought-iron chairs nestled in a lush oasis, offer a rare breath of tranquility in the heart of Paris.

Whether for business meetings, intimate dinners, or gatherings among friends, Maison Blossom effortlessly combines warmth, elegance, and gourmet pleasure.

It's a place where guests linger, connect, and celebrate – a discreet urban cocoon where every detail, from the tableware to the menu, tells a story of French hospitality.

At Maison Blossom, tradition takes center stage with a bold return to the great classics of French gastronomy. At the helm is Chef Christophe Chottin, who brings his

savoir-faire and inspired interpretation to hearty, precise terroir-driven cuisine. Every dish pays tribute to the quality of the ingredients, the rhythm of the seasons, and the mastery of culinary technique.

Alongside him, Pastry Chef Shereen Khelif crafts a dessert menu that bridges timeless tradition and modern flair. From the iconic œuf mimosa to the rustic terrine de grand-mère, and main courses like veal piccata with flambéed broccoli or roast coquelet with buttery mashed potatoes, Maison Blossom serves up the comforting, elegant cuisine of a beloved family home – authentic, vibrant, never static.

A set menu of weekday classics further enhances the experience, offering signature dishes tailored to each day of the week — eagerly awaited by both regulars and international visitors.

On Tuesdays, for instance, guests can enjoy a Chateau filet of beef with Sarawak pepper sauce and hand-cut fries, while Thursdays might feature the spectacular Merlan Colbert with sautéed green asparagus.

Desserts channel pure nostalgia – a delightfully indulgent Paris-Brest, a perfectly risen chocolate soufflé, or a generous rum baba flambéed tableside with citrus peel syrup and fresh Chantilly cream.

Maison Blossom takes as much pride in the glass as it does on the plate. The wine list pays homage to France’s rich terroirs, with a carefully curated selection of small producers and committed vineyards, many organic or biodynamic.

From a Pic Saint Loup or organic Volnay by the glass, to refined labels like Châteauneuf-du-Pape L’Oratoire blanc or a distinguished Corton Grand Cru “Perrières”, each bottle is an invitation to explore a passionate and sustainable French viticulture, perfectly in tune with the kitchen’s philosophy.

On the mixology side, Maison Blossom partners with renowned mixologist Matthias Giroud, co-founder of L’Alchimiste, to create a cocktail menu that is elegant, inventive, and eco-conscious. Low- or non-alcoholic and lightly sweetened, his creations play with infusions, hydrosols, homemade syrups, and natural ingredients. Signature drinks includethe graceful “Douce France”, with muscat and verbena, or the radiant “Punch No.1”, infused with vanilla rooibos, clementine, and orange blossom.

sofitel-paris-lefaubourg.com

Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra

For over 150 years, Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra has been beating to the vibrant rhythm of Paris and the Opéra district and since it’s major makeover that was completed five years ago, the hotel has written a brand-new page in its history, embodying a new Parisian spirit.

Since its creation in 1863 when it was built as part of the Opéra district’s initial development, Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra has been an essential part of Parisian life.

The city’s alluring department stores, exciting Grands Boulevards, elegant rue de la Paix, luxurious Place Vendôme, world-famous Louvre, charming Palais Royal and beguiling arcades are all nearby.

First chosen as the headquarters of the prestigious Jockey Club, it was the meeting point for the elite of French and European society during the Second Empire.

A true scene of the modernity that saw the birth of cinema, with the Lumière brothers' very 1st world projection in 1895. The hotel was also the stronghold of many visionaries and artists such as Josephine Baker.

Since the makeover, travellers have been able to discover stylish rooms and suites, which reflect the Haussmann architecture of the capital.

An intimate atmosphere of a Parisian apartment where everything is nothing but elegance and refinement, the hotel's rooms and suites illustrate with finesse and style the vibrant city of Paris which represents the French way of life.

To bring the property back up to its rightful elegant level, the owners joined forces with Wilson Associates and its artistic director Tristan Auer and the result was magnificent.

“This is a building that has always been closely connected to images: the moving image - cinema - and photographic images, especially during the war when it was a communications centre,” Auer said.

“It was also the first building in the world to be draped for an advertising campaign. What’s more, it has a fantastic history.”

Auer’s designs for the guestrooms recalled a Parisian apartment, with fireplaces, mouldings, wainscoting and fabric headboards.

Bathroom ceilings reflect the colours of the Opéra Garnier’s ceiling as painted by Chagall, a beautiful reference to the area.

The bas-reliefs, medallions and vases evoke artists’ studios, a nod to Paris museums. A selection of vibrant, colourful works in various abstract styles by young French artists decorates the walls.

The bathrooms feature terrazzo floors, upper wooden moulding evoking a typical 19th-century atmosphere, with superimposed materials, folding screens, ceramics, wood and tiling. Auer specially designed the dressing gown hooks to resemble picture rails. Rose-gold faucets are in contrast to the hotel’s ‘men’s club’ spirit with a soft, feminine touch.

Auer said he wanted to recreate the intense ambiance of Paris nightlife around the Opéra Garnier during the Second Empire, when it was the seat of the Jockey Club.

He skilfully recreated the spirit of a ‘men’s club’ with subtle, refined touches. To contrast with the masculine side, he created guestrooms and a tearoom that are more feminine, angelic and sensitive while revisiting the mood of a Haussmannian apartment typical of Paris.

When it comes to wining and dining, contemporary chic spaces were designed for sharing and relaxation. Headlining the offering is, Rivages, helmed by Chef Martin Simolka and Mixologist Roberto Catalano, who surprise both the connoisseurs and the curious who pass through the doors of this stunning hotel.

The hotel is also home to Scribe and Cie., both a fine boutique and a Parisian café, which opens early in the morning to coffee and tea experts and pastry lovers.

sofitel.accor.com

GETTING THERE

Qantas flies to direct Paris from Perth, with flights operated by widebody Boeing 787-9 aircraft that feature the airline’s signature suite-style Business Class seats that can be reclined for take-off and landing, fantastic meals, premium Australian wines and one of the best in-flight entertainment systems in the sky. The direct hop from Australia to Europe is one of aviation’s great feats and Qantas does it with excellent hospitality and comfortable seats that will ensure a fantastic rest.

qantas.com

Utah’s powder paradise

With two incredible alpine resorts, hundreds of fantastic bars, cafes and restaurants and easy access from an international airport, it’s no surprise Park City in Utah has become one of the world’s best winter playgrounds that’s set to get even better this coming winter thanks to an incredible terrain expansion.

Park City, Utah began as a silver mining town, nearly faded into history as a ghost town, and then re-invented itself as a ski town that has grown into a year-round destination, hosting global events such as the 2002 Winter Olympic Games and the renowned Sundance Film Festival.

Located less than 40 miles from Salt Lake City International Airport, Park City offers days and nights filled with action on the slopes during the day and then enlightening evenings at some fantastic restaurants and bars.

Park City is anchored by historic Main Street, home to theatres, bars,

restaurants, cafes, fashion boutiques, galleries, distilleries and local businesses that both line the old mining town street and those that spur off it.

In town expect a lively atmosphere, while the mountains around it are home to two leading alpine resorts, including Deer Valley – set to get a huge expansion this coming winter – alongside and America’s largest ski resort Park City Mountain, that offer skiing, snowboarding, dogsledding, snowmobiling and snowshoeing in the winter, alongside mountain biking, hiking and ziplining in the summer.

Park City

Park City is home to two amazing alpine resorts, including Park City Mountain, the largest ski resort in the United States, offering over 3,000 hectares (7,300 acres) of world class terrain for skiers and riders of all levels.

Here you can ski or ride directly from Park City Mountain’s epic terrain to vibrant Park City Main Street, where you’ll find some of the best après in the United States.

Park City’s two distinct base areas bustle with yearround activities, thrilling family adventures, nine hotels, and more than two dozen restaurants.

Canyons Village at Park City Mountain is a guestcentric, pedestrian village with world-class slopeside lodging and dining year-round.

Here you can level-up your skiing or riding with

a lesson from Park City’s comprehensive ski and snowboard school programs.

Impressively, Park City Mountain aims to achieve zero waste to landfill, zero net emissions, and zero net impact to forests by 2030, as a part of Vail Resorts’ EpicPromise Commitment to Zero.

During Winter 2023-2024, Park City Mountain revealed that with the Elektron Solar project coming online they were able to run 100 percent of their electric usage on renewable energy.

Park City Mountain also installed new snowmaking equipment on popular runs last winter and coming next, the new Sunrise Gondola will open for Winter 2025-2026 transporting skiers and snowboarders from Canyons Village to mid-mountain, bringing another lift servicing the Canyons Village.

If you plan on visiting during summer, expect long sunny days, cool mountain air and a variety of outdoor activities.

In the summer, thrill seekers can enjoy a ride on one of the world’s longest alpine slides or explore miles of stunning hiking and biking trails.

You can also take in the views with a scenic lift or gondola ride or spend the day on the greens with friends at Canyons Village’s 18-hole golf course.

GEAR UP

If you are travelling without your ski gear, book premium ski rental from the team at Black Tie, the best way to rent skis and snowboards in Park City and Deer Valley.

You can simply reserve your gear online and they will deliver it to your hotel, lodge or condo upon your arrival and swing by for a custom fitting.

Black Tie offers an extensive selection of the leading skis and snowboards from a variety of top brands including Blizzard, K2, Nordica, Peak Skis, and more. Custom fittings are tailored to each guest based on your rental package, ability level, and the current snow conditions.

WHERE TO STAY

The team at Park City Lodging is celebrating over 39 years of service in 2025 and the company, winner of Best of State in the vacation rental category over several years recently, offers vacation rentals right across the region.

Whether you prefer the action on Main Street, or the ambiance of Deer Valley, Park City Mountain, or Canyons Resort areas, you can choose your favourite location from over 260 unique properties.

“We have cozy studios, comfy condos, spacious townhomes, and luxurious private homes – just the right place to unwind after a day in the mountains,” said Park City Lodging President and Founder, Rhonda Sideris.

“We cater to any size group or budget, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family reunion or a group outing.

“Our accommodations are conveniently located just minutes from the best skiing, shopping, dining, and nightlife, and many are located near the free town shuttle stops.”

To be part of the action, choose a location near Main Street and enjoy the après of this fantastic year-round town, like the Blue Church Lodge, which offers stylish, spacious loft apartments.

Over near the base of Park City Mountain, the 127-room Park City Peaks Hotel has been one of the area’s favourite boutique properties for skiers and boarders for years, thanks to its mountain mid-century design, top restaurant and unique indoor-outdoor pool.

Now the property is undergoing a US$21 million renovation to convert it into Hotel Thaynes, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, which the name change and makeover expected in October 2025 in time for the 2025-2026 ski season.

Lodging Dynamics will manage the property and the company’s President and CEO, Jamie Caraher, said the comprehensive renovation will transform the property, “seamlessly blending common areas, guest rooms and other spaces with the Tribute Portfolio’s signature warm and eclectic design, highlighted by bold colours and striking art installations”.

He said select rooms and suites will feature balconies, while expansive, spa-inspired bathrooms will include walk-in showers with high-end finishes and ample vanity space, creating a sophisticated yet relaxing space for guests to unwind after a day on the slopes or trails.

The hotel’s redesign takes inspiration from Park City’s pioneering spirit, paying homage to the legendary Thaynes Canyon mining district through thoughtfully curated artwork, design and immersive guest experiences.

A highlight of the transformation is Versante Hearth and Bar, the hotel’s beloved on-site restaurant, which will continue to be an integral part of the property.

Known for its inviting atmosphere and flavorful menu, Versante will maintain the dining experience that guests and locals already love while being seamlessly incorporated into the hotel’s refreshed design.

EAT AND DRINK

Park City is home to nearly 200 restaurants, cafes and bars, with restaurants featuring a variety of culinary styles, influences and cuisines, and bars, clubs and historic saloons home to live music and craft cocktails.

Book a table at Loma, one of the town’s newest eateries located on Park City’s Lower Main Street. Loma is a casual, upscale restaurant influenced by Italian techniques and cuisine where you can expect house-made pastas, seasonal specialties and wood-fired pizzas.

The cuisine leans into the simplicity, freshness and quality ingredients found in both Italian and Mediterranean seasonally relevant dishes.

Loma is Adam and wife Meisha’s second restaurant venture joining Twisted Fern under the couple’s

DAY TRIP: THE HEBER VALLEY

A 30-minute drive from Park City is the stunning Heber Valley, known for the mountain town of Midway with its heritage shops, cafes and restaurants, and adventures on the nearby peaks including mountain biking and snowmobiling. Start the experience off with a walk around Midway, then call in for lunch at the Midway Mercantile Restaurant, an elevated American gourmet eatery on Main Street that serves up fresh and locally sourced cuisine from the Heber Valley. Built around the four pillars of family, friends, food, and fire, this hearth-to-table restaurant features dishes like the Utah Lamb Shepherds Pie, Cornflour Dusted Calamari and the Campfire Idaho Trout. After a hearty lunch, head off for a snowmobiling adventure with Wasatch Excursions, the leading tourism operator in the Heber Valley. Wasatch Excursions offers exclusive guided recreational tours in the pristine 22,000 acres of the Wasatch Mountain State Park in Midway. They offer year-round adventures featuring snowmobiles and tracked UTV rentals in the winter and ATV and UTV rentals in the spring, summer and fall. One of the most exciting experiences in winter is snowmobiling and you’ll go high up into the Wasatch Mountain State Park where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Heber Valley and nearby ski resorts, including Deer Valley, while also enjoying the adrenalin rush of taking the snowmobiles for a spin. Take advantage of Wasatch Excursions’ exclusive guide service, which we recommend, or you can rent the machines self-guided. Other fun activities in the area also include hiking, mountain biking, rafting and generally exploring the great outdoors. goherbervalley.com

ownership and direction and both restaurants prioritize sustainability through a commitment to local purveyors and conscientious business practices.

A local's standard for 40 years, Grub Steak has built a fantastic reputation for serving prime cuts of charbroiled beef, fresh fish and seafood, chicken, lamb, pork and game entrees.

The famed 45-item salad bar, fresh home-baked desserts and breads are available as well as children's, young adults and gluten-free menus.

The atmosphere is casual with a large, rustic rock fireplace and Western memorabilia covering the walls and expect live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights.

On Main Street, The Eating Establishment is a local institution known for their breakfast and comfort food that is owned by actor Ty Burrell of Modern Family fame.

Opened in 1972, The Eating Establishment has been a beloved diner to three generations of locals and visitors to Park City and under the guidance of chef Brendan Kawakami, the menu preserves the original spirit of a ‘breakfast all day’ restaurant while adding a few new comfort food elements to round out the day and night.

Nearby, Red Banjo Pizza is one of Park City’s longest running business. Their story began in 1962 before the ski resort opened and Park City was still a mining town.

It has continued across four generations and 60 years and they specialise in hand-tossed fresh-baked pizzas alongside sandwiches, pasta, salads, and a full bar.

At Chimayo, find Southwestern throw pillows in each booth and an authentic Mexican tile floor at this Mexican den.

Start with a signature Chimayo Margarita and don't miss the dipping sauce that's served with the freshly baked bread. Favourites include the Crown Roast of Barbecue Spareribs with a chipotle and caramelizsed pineapple glaze.

Pine Cone Ridge serves up elevated contemporary American cuisine with a focus on farm fresh ingredients.

Expect a thoughtfully curated menu by Chef Gudrun Thorne-Thomsen and a variety of craft cocktails and extensive wine lists from around the globe in a dining room surrounded by nuances of Americana artwork, emerald, green tufted booths and Brazilian hardwood flooring.

Since 2003, Purple Sage has been serving American Western cuisine in the Rocky Mountain Bell building in the middle of historic Main Street.

Their cuisine focuses on the bold and rustic flavours of the West with a modern and sophisticated twist, like the signature meatloaf with sugar and chili cured duck, and fresh Utah trout.

For a taste of the Far East, book a table at Shabu, which has received consistent praise for its unique freestyle Asian cuisine that blends the region’s celebrated dishes with fresh, global flavours.

At the Riverhorse on Main, savour Prime steaks, scallops and lobster tail or delight in the signature macadamia nut-crusted halibut. Dishes feature farm-totable fresh, local and organic vegetables and local lamb and wild game.

There’s no shortage of fantastic bars and classic saloons in Park City, which are certainly thriving during the Sundance Film Festival.

The Park City Social Aide and Pleasure Club is open daily from 3pm-9pm in winter and here, find craft cocktails and home-made pies in a microdistillery setting.

Most nights the pies will sell out as they prefer to keep them local, fresh and hot and have one alongside an Old Fashioned or Gin Bramble. The Alpine Pie Bar here is part of Alpine Distilling, which is a premium craft distillery specializing in flavoured cordials based in Park City.

The distillery's first two products, Preserve Liqueur and Stone Fruit Primrose Bourbon Whiskey, pay homage to classic spirits inspired by alpine settings and those who enjoy recreating in them.

At the recently opened Old Town Cellars, the philosophy is a simple blend of quality wines, authentic mountain town ambiance and a local culture of outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. The team here source from top wine growing regions to blend and bottle on site at at the Main Street establishment.

The No Name Saloon is the busiest bar in Utah and a must-swing-by watering hole on Main Street. With global and local nostalgia covering the walls and ceilings, it is as much a visual delight as it is a one-of-a-kind experience.

Here you’ll find three bars and 17 large screen TVs, which also make it ideal for catching major sporting events or just Sunday football when all games are on offer.

Over at the Spur Bar and Grill, find well-regarded bar food with alongside top wines, craft beers and signature cocktails from local distillers, alongside live music every night with local, regional and national music acts from all genres.

In historic Old Town Park City, High West Saloon is the world’s only ski-in gastro distillery that serves up fantastic cocktails and food.

The bar and restaurant is part of the High West Distillery, was founded in 2006 by David Perkins and his wife, Jane, and supplies spirits to many of the leading bars, restaurants and hotels in Park City.

David, a former biochemist, said he was inspired to open his own distillery after seeing the parallels between the fermentation and distilling process and his own work in biochemistry during a trip to the Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky.

For dining between runs at Park City Mountain, stop by Red Pine Lodge at the top of Red Pine Gondola, a quick service style restaurant perfect for families with a wide array of menu options.

Also have a meal at Tombstone Grill, located at the base of the Tombstone, Over ‘n Out, Timberline Lifts, which serves brisket, pulled pork, smoked wings and more all smoked on-site daily.

In the afternoon, head to the Viking Yurt at the top of the Crescent Express chairlift for a buffalo brat, washed down with a Glogg (non-alc spiced berry cider), before making last tracks down to the base.

Over at Canyons Village, our picks are the Red Tail Grill, located within the Grand Summit Hotel and serves classic favourites and local libations, and the Umbrella Bar, which offers outdoor dining and provides cold beers and quick eats in an ideal location to watch live music on the Canyons Village stage.

SEE AND DO

Go on a snowshoe walk with All Seasons Adventures, who offer a 2.5-hour journey across the hills between Park City and Deer Valley. Go on a Treasure Hunt Snowshoe Tour, complete with a guide and all the gear (dress in ski gear and bring water). You’ll be given a map with clues to help your kids find buried treasure left behind by the miners of Park City’s past.

Olympic buffs and sports fans generally will enjoy a visit to the Utah Olympic Park and Alf Engen Ski Museum.

Built for the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games, Utah Olympic Park is a 400-acre venue that houses one of only four sliding tracks in North America, six Nordic ski jumps, a 2002 Winter Games museum, and a multitude of adventure activities.

The Alf Engen Ski Museum is one of two impressive anchor exhibits at the Utah Olympic Park, alongside the George Eccles 2002 Olympic Winter Games Museum, and it is home to a handful of interactive exhibits and is totally free.

A popular spot on Main Street, the Park City Museum is a lively non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving, protecting and promoting Park City's rich history and culturally significant sites.

Their solid 40-year history as one of Utah's most popular and successful cultural anchors has resulted in numerous awards, accolades and regular inclusion in national and international travel guides as a top ten Park City attraction.

For a spot of shopping, the Park City Junction Commons has over 60 brand name outlet stores to choose from including Nike, Polo, Tommy Hilfiger, Columbia, Michael Kors, Under Armour, Brooks Brothers, Mammut, J. Crew and more.

Deer Valley

They call it the ‘Deer Valley Difference’ in Utah’s Park City and they aren’t wrong, because this is a skiing enthusiast’s paradise unlike few others on the planet.

At Deer Valley, a skier-only resort just minutes from Park City, find 21 lifts, 103 ski runs, and 820 hectares of terrain, for every skill level, spanning novice to expert, with a good mix for all abilities.

Part of the resort’s Deer Valley Difference is prioritising guest satisfaction by limiting daily skier numbers, ensuring an optimal mountain experience for all on the mountain and it’s truly noticeable.

Here don’t be surprised when you have runs to yourself and chairlifts with no queues, most accessed by resorts, hotels and lodges that offer ski valet, ski-in, ski-out facilities and if you choose to drive here, there are staff to carry your skis from the car to the lift.

It’s part of the offering that includes impeccable service, a high attention to guest satisfaction, luxurious lodging and award-winning dining.

With a legacy spanning over 40 years, Deer Valley has continuously set the standard for excellence in ski resorts, pairing superior customer service with culinary delights and pristine grooming.

Recently, the resort has been embarking on a new chapter called ‘Expanded Excellence’, a visionary initiative to enhance and enrich the Deer Valley experience, which, incredibly by the 2025-2026 ski season will see the resort double the skier terrain, add a new portal as base area in the Deer Valley East Village and start on the long-awaited Snow Park base transformation.

The good news is Deer Valley Resort is on track to deliver the largest ski resort expansion in history in time for the 2025-2026 ski season.

This coming Northern winter, Deer Valley will debut seven new chairlifts—including the East Village Express, a 10-passenger gondola linking the new East Village to Park Peak—and more than 80 new ski runs.

Deer Valley’s East Village Gondola, East Village Express, is expected to open in December 2025, conditions permitting.

It will be Deer Valley’s first 10-person gondola, which will connect the Deer Valley East Village to the top of Park Peak in Deer Valley’s existing footprint.

Deer Valley will also welcome its second 6-person chairlift with a bubble, Pinyon Express, along with the other new chairlifts Revelator Express, Galena Express Neptune Express and Pioche Express.

For the 2025-2026 ski season, Deer Valley East Village will also offer a Deer Valley Skier Services building that includes a rental shop, complimentary ski storage, and ticketing.

These additions bring the resort’s total to 10 new lifts and over 100 new runs since December 2024, marking a defining milestone in Deer Valley’s transformation.

“With multiple large-scale projects underway, we’re strategically focusing our efforts to ensure success at every step,” said Deer Valley Resort President and COO, Todd Bennett.

“This winter’s terrain expansion—more than doubling our skiable acreage—is a once-in-a-generation transformation, and it deserves our full attention.”

Deer Valley now boasts 31 chairlifts, over 200 ski runs, seven bowls, 300 inches of annual snowfall, and 4,300 skiable acres, firmly making it one of the world’s premier ski-only mountains.

The resort has a number of fun options when on the mountain, including the unique ‘ski with a champion’ offering, where you can hit the slopes with an Olympic snowsport athlete.

The athletes are available to ski with individuals, families and groups for exclusive half- and full-day adventures at Deer Valley Resort and the program includes Olympic athletes Shannon Bahrke, Fuzz Feddersen, Kaylin Richardson, Jillian Vogtli, Chris Waddell, Trace Worthington and Ashley Caldwell, each a champion in their respective skiing disciplines.

You can also make the most of your day by taking your skiing to the next level with Deer Valley’s Gold Standard of Instruction.

But Deer Valley isn't just a winter wonderland. In summer, the resort comes alive with outdoor concerts and a plethora of activities, boasting 112 kilometres of mountain biking and hiking trails, alongside scenic chairlift rides.

WHERE TO STAY

Deer Valley is home to some of America’s leading alpine hotels, resorts and lodges where hospitality, style, comfort and luxury all go hand in hand.

Leading the way at this fantastic ski resort is Stein Eriksen Lodge, nestled amid the alpine serenity of Deer Valley and identified both across America and worldwide as a legendary luxury ski hotel.

Stein Eriksen Lodge is an authentic year-round European lodge offering an elegant blend of contemporary sophistication and nostalgic grace.

Inspired by the Olympic legend and his Norwegian heritage, this traditional ski lodge was the first luxury property in Park City and today it remains one of the best in the region.

Adorned with oversized leather chairs, crackling fireplaces, and a welcoming ambiance, Stein Eriksen Lodge provides guests fantastic service, comfort and an exceptional ski-in, ski-out location in Deer Valley.

Being Utah’s longest-running Forbes Five-Star hotel and spa, Stein Eriksen Lodge ups the ante when it comes to luxury lodging in this state and here, guests can experience the best mid-mountain access at Deer Valley Resort, award-winning dining (including the brilliant Alpen Globe dinner experience), indulgent spa treatments, and always entertaining après, making Stein Eriksen Lodge a fantastic year-round offering.

At Trail’s End Lodge, bright woodsy accommodations place you right at the base of Deer Valley’s fun slopes.

Here, you can choose from one- to four-bedroom spacious residences fitted with private outdoor hot tubs, stone fireplaces and inviting living areas to settle into after the day’s adventures.

The Lodge has ski-in, ski-out access with valet facilities and there’s complimentary breakfast on the second floor,

Luxury style at Stein Eriksen Lodge

ideal before heading out and being on a chair for your first run within minutes of finishing your coffee.

Trails End is part of Deer Valley Resort’s Collection Properties and popular for families from across the world.

The newest resort in the area is the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley, which made its debut in November 2024 in time for the last ski season.

The resort anchors the newly developed Deer Valley East Village – the first luxury alpine village of its kind in North America since 1981 which includes 300-plus new skiable acres, 20 new runs and three new chairlifts – and set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains.

The resort features approximately 436 luxury accommodations, including 55 residences, which offer breathtaking views of the iconic Rocky Mountains, Heber Valley and Jordanelle Reservoir through oversized windows that frame the stunning landscape.

Grand Hyatt Deer Valley has also introduced seven culinary concepts to the new East Village, headlined by Remington Hall, where you can experience Rustic American fare by acclaimed Culinary Director Chef Marc Marrone.

EAT AND DRINK

Headlining the dining experiences in Deer Valley is found at the luxurious Stein Eriksen Lodge, where you can dine in an Alpen Globe on the terrace.

Six life-size Alpenglobes sit atop the deck of the Mountain Lodge and these unique, clear domes offer a climate-controlled and fully enclosed atmosphere with captivating, panoramic Deer Valley views for our guests to enjoy outdoor dining and lounging.

Four globes seat up to six guests and two seat up to eight guests and reservations are US$200 for a 90-minute breakfast or lunch, and US$250 for a 90-minute dinner meal period.

Dining selections in the Alpenglobes come from the menus at the Troll Hallen and Glitretind restaurants and they are loaded up with local produce.

At Glitretind, renowned chef Enrico Arcita offers a twocourse menu with highlights like cured Ora king salmon, lobster and Osetra caviar, a wild mushroom pot pie and Hamachi crudo for the first course, followed by some fantastic main dishes, including an Iberian Duroc pork tenderloin, bison ribeye, Double R Ranch beef tenderloin and a delicious Maine tuna and Peekytoe crab with charred brassicas, horseradish cream, trout roe and bonito oil.

Here also expect fantastic views of Deer Valley Resort and on Sundays, Glitretind’s famed brunch starts at 11am.

Well known for its lively après, light lunch or dinner, Troll Hallen is all about enjoying American classics, local spirits, brews and the best cocktails on the mountain, including the Stein’s Norwegian Toddy.

Head here for the Lodge’s take on après classics, like Stein’s garlic cheese fries, devilled avocados and egg, truffle cheddar fritters and the legendary Mountain mushroom ‘Cheesesteak’, with Jarlsberg cheese, smoked onions, bell peppers and roasted garlic smear on a hoagie roll.

Alongside fantastic cuisine, Stein Eriksen Lodge is known for its impressive wine cellar that includes over 20,000 bottles worth over US$2.6 million, highlighted by some of the world’s leading labels, spanning the United States, France, Italy, Australia and more.

Held at a constant temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit and 60 percent humidity, the wine cellar features floorto-ceiling redwood racks and a tasting room for up to 10 guests.

Whether you pop in for coffee in the morning, take in the lively après or have dinner in the Alpenglobes offers fantastic experiences all day long.

For another unique taste of the European Alps in the mountains of Deer Valley, head to Fireside Dining, where an eventful experience awaits.

Here, there’s a four-course experience menu with chef’s stations set up at open fires around the traditional dining hall. You’ll lead off with the fan favourite, Warm Swiss Raclette, served from stone fireplaces and accompanied by

a selection of cured meats, potatoes, chutneys and freshly baked baguettes.

Then there’s a choice of soups and salads, some warm specialties like beef and wild mushroom stew, seared salmon and seared venison medallions. You’ll need to save room for the carvery through, because what awaits is a delicious prime rib roast and the leg of lamb.

In true European style, it finishes with a fondue dessert station accompanied by cookies, cinnamon pound cake, candies, fruits and key lime tartlets.

If you’d like to arrive in style, book a horse-drawn sleigh ride, available Wednesday through Sunday, for US$50 (up to six guests) and amplify the European experience.

For a hearty on-mountain lunch after some morning runs, head to Royal Street Café in the Silver Lake Lodge for creative American and international cuisine with scenic deck dining.

Here, the menu options include creative appetizers, sandwiches, Deer Valley’s Turkey Chili, fresh salads and specialty entrées, alongside a tempting assortment of desserts.

Deer Valley Creamery’s refreshing selection of homemade ice cream is also available and it’s a great way to finish the meal.

Right above Royal Street Café is one of the newest après experiences in Deer Valley, The Sticky Wicket, a vintage bar that evokes the Golden Era of skiing. Serving lunch daily and open late for après, the menu includes appetizers, sandwiches, crisp salads and desserts large enough to share. Some of the favourite dishes here are the Sticky Finger Brisket Fries and the Nashville Fried Chicken Sandwich, served alongside hand crafted cocktails, as well as a wide selection of wine, ciders, seltzers, and local Utah craft beers.

The brand-new Grand Hyatt Deer Valley has seven culinary concepts to the new East Village, including our favourite Remington Hall, where you can experience Rustic American fare by acclaimed Culinary Director Chef Marc Marrone.

Open from breakfast to dinner, the menus offer fresh regional produce highlighting Utah and the American West. In the evenings, starters include favourites like crab dip, a colossal shrimp cocktail and a bison tartare with cured egg yolk, truffle aioli and thin cheese croutons.

For the mains, meats headline the show and cuts like a Bone-In Grilled Pork Chop, Center Cut Bison Filet, Boneless Ribeye and a 32-oz dry-aged Niman Ranch porterhouse lead the way, of course alongside some classic favourites like a pan seared salmon and seared scallops.

The wine and cocktail lists also impress – order a Barrel-Rolled Boulevard with High West Bourbon (from Main Street, Park City), Dolin Blanc, Sherry and Frambois – which can also be enjoyed in the Remington Hall Lounge, which also offers après-ski bar bites, like wagyu ‘pigs in a blanket’ and caramelized onion dip served with chips and caviar.

deervalley.com

GETTING THERE

Wayfarer recommends flying to Salt Lake City, Utah on United Airlines, which offers daily flights to the city from across America (including New York, Houston, Los Angeles, San Francisco and more) and connections from around the world. united.com

Orchard delights

Singapore’s famed Orchard district has been undergoing an incredible hotel renaissance of late, with stunning new properties opening and others undertaking a major makeover. Wayfarer heads to three of the best that need to be on your radar.

Sky high luxury at Pan Pacific Orchard

Pan Pacific Orchard

Singapore has been home to spectacular hotel debuts of late and high on that list is the Pan Pacific Orchard, which combines style with sustainability, greenery and luxury hospitality.

It was back on June 1, 2023 when Pan Pacific Hotels Group, a member of Singapore-listed UOL Group (UOL), unveiled its spectacular flagship hotel Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore and since then the hotel continues to mesmerise business and leisure travellers like.

Developed by UOL, the 23-storey hotel features intricate and imaginative design by WOHA Architects.

Arising amidst the cityscape with dramatic terraced greenery occupying over 300% of the hotel’s land area, Pan Pacific Orchard is a headline act as part of the green rejuvenation of the Garden City’s famed Orchard Road district.

This luxury hotel also marked a new era of graceful luxury from Pan Pacific, which is now seen around the world from London to Singapore, Perth and beyond.

“With the Pan Pacific Orchard beautifully designed by WOHA, Pan Pacific Hotels Group is making our mark in Singapore’s luxury hospitality segment,” said Pan Pacific Hotels Group Chief Executive Officer, Choe Peng Sum.

“It is at the heart of the Pan Pacific mission to deliver authentic and memorable experiences to our

guests, and we are excited to showcase our promise of sincere service and our vision of graceful luxury.”

Envisioned by WOHA as a new prototype for highrise tropical hospitality, Pan Pacific Orchard is one of Singapore’s only luxury hotels designed with the environment in mind, brimming with 14,000sqm of foliage and water features, a high-ceiling openair lobby and energy-saving features like rainwater collection, solar panel technology and a biodigester system.

Nature is architecturally celebrated with four high-volume terraced environments: Forest, Beach, Garden and Cloud.

Dramatic 120m green columns tower through the terraces, creating a spectacle of thriving flora.

Mirrored ceilings reflect each unique landscape, from the sparkling pools of Beach Terrace to the manicured lawns of Garden Terrace and open-air spaces welcome abundant fresh breeze and natural daylight for exquisite alfresco experiences.

Arriving at the Forest Terrace, guests can enjoy a breezy check-in surrounded by tranquil greenery.

Its 347 rooms and suites are meticulously designed for comfort and luxury, including cosy 400-thread count cotton bedding and luxurious bath amenities by Jo Malone.

Our pick of the rooms are the 32-sqm Beach Club Pool Access Lofts, which feature a unique design that lets you wade directly into the swimming pool from your room. You’ll also get your own mezzanine lounge and calming rain shower complete your private retreat.

Encouraging guests to adopt sustainable practices are in-room filtered water dispensers; reusable bottles made with ocean-bound material are also available in the room.

Club guests can enjoy an extra special stay with dedicated check-in, late check-out and exclusive access to the plush 130-seater Pacific Club Lounge within the Garden Terrace.

Fitted with custom-designed furnishings and counters topped in Italy-treated leathered marble, Pacific Club Lounge presents a private retreat with indoor and outdoor alfresco spaces, overlooking the landscaped lawns and cabanas of the Garden Terrace.

With distinct dining concepts at Pan Pacific Orchard, guests can explore signature restaurant Mosella,

overlooking the greenscape of Forest Terrace and offering Mediterranean cuisine with a Peruvian twist.

Heading up to the Garden Terrace, guests can soak in the district’s latest destination bar Florette, featuring one of the city’s best Champagne lists—from growers to rare vintages and the classics—perfectly paired with the season’s freshest oysters.

The 18th floor of the dreamy Cloud Terrace presents a collection of resplendent spaces for “events in the clouds”.

The centrepiece is the exquisite pillarless 600sqm Claymore Ballroom – one of the highest in the city –providing immersive visual experiences with a panoramic LED video wall, natural daylight filtering in from floor-toceiling windows and enchanting garden views.

With a sweeping capacity of 420 people, Claymore Ballroom opens out to the outdoor terrace for exceptional alfresco receptions.

It all adds-up to an exceptional experience and Pan Pacific Orchard has set a very high benchmark for hotel stays in the vibrant city.

panpacific.com

Hilton Singapore Orchard

After a stylish makeover, the Hilton Singapore Orchard made a stunning debut recently in one of the city’s most thriving areas and the property has quickly become a favourite for locals and travellers alike. To find out what makes the property so unique, James Wilkinson caught up with Hilton Singapore Orchard General Manager Rupert Hallam recently.

Hilton Singapore Orchard has been popular on so many levels since it opened, from the location to the lobby, design, rooms and food and beverage on offer. Tell us about your favourite things of the property. My favourite thing about Hilton Singapore Orchard is the team and the camaraderie between team members – often going the extra mile to look after each other and our esteemed guests, especially in this large 1,080room hotel.

It’s undeniable that a great team makes a great Hotel. People aside, I do enjoy the hotel’s strategic location which is in the heart of Orchard Road, Singapore’s

premier entertainment and shopping district that is only a 25-minute drive from the Airport.

Our strong design narrative is something that I find myself enjoy sharing when we have guests all over the world. ‘The Orchard Trail’ design concept stems from the roots of our location, Orchard Road. It used to be a plantation in the olden days.

Drawing back to that history, we took those elements to weave it in our botanical-inspired rooms and 16 versatile meeting spaces, and even through to our awardwinning F&B establishments which all has a rich design story-telling.

Tell us about the stylish rooms and suites on offer, which have fantastic views over the city.

We have 1,080 rooms in Hilton Singapore Orchard, Hilton’s flagship and the largest property in Asia Pacific.

Our rooms take on the same overarching design narrative that story-tells the narrative ‘The Orchard Trail’ and how Orchard used to be a plantation before its revamp to the vibrant precinct we all come to love.

We have incorporated botanical-inspired elements from the headboard, painting to carpets within the rooms, and adopt colours like forest green and neutral tones to pair with wooden elements that pay homage to the landscape and plantation past.

The second layer of the design inspiration is based on the idea of Orchard Road being a fashion and retail belt.

To exemplify this, guests will notice elements of retail like an open-concept wardrobe and dresser that they can use to showcase their clothes and fashion hauls instead of hiding them in the closet after a day of shopping.

Strategically located mirrors and lighting are also in place, so that they take photos of themselves to appreciate their hauls.

The bathroom for instance has reflective dark green walls inspired by fashion retail stores to give a perception of luxury and space.

Located in the heart of Orchard, our room views are spectacular – those on the higher floors will be treated to a sweeping view of the Marina Bay area with iconic landmarks in sight on one side, and on the other side, Orchard Road views are also amazing in its own right.

Rupert, tell us about the fantastic food and beverage on offer, which is some of the best in any Singapore hotel. We’re proud to position ourselves as a dining destination with our award-winning food and beverage establishments that cater to every palate.

Estate, our all-day buffet restaurant featuring elevated international and regional flavours, Ginger.Lily, our botanical lobby lounge and bar serves up elegant afternoon tea, artisanal cakes, and craft cocktails, Osteria Mozza, our famed Californian-Italian restaurant from Los Angeles with a Michelin star helmed by celebrity chef Nancy Silverton, Shisen Hanten, another Michelin-starred restaurant serving quality Szechuan cuisine, and Chatterbox, a heritage brand that dishes up local favourites and known for their Hainanese Chicken Rice. There’s truly something for everyone.

What’s your X-factor at Hilton Singapore Orchard? I believe that the people makes the place. That is why I’ve introduced ‘ONETeam’, a Family Culture which I encouraged my team to embrace alongside me.

The culture focuses on nine core elements, including: open communication, respect, being the best, make commitments and keeping them, embrace flexibility, leading by example, drive for success, trust one another and acting with humility and authenticity.

Each of the nine boxes reflect a key focus which outlines the core of what we do every day.

I firmly believe in the trickle-down effect that good leadership starts at the top. In the same fashion that Hilton’s corporate leadership has continuously strive to create a welcoming, diverse and inclusive environment in and outside of the workplace, I too strive to lead by example within Hilton Singapore Orchard and inspire our team to go above and beyond to exceed our guests’ expectations while taking a humble, genuine and warm approach to hospitality.

How

important is the loyalty, particularly given the popularity of Hilton Honors?

Given the competitive nature of the Hospitality industry, having a strong loyalty program like Hilton Honors is vital to the long-term success of our network of hotels, including Hilton Singapore Orchard.

We have now more than 200 million Hilton Honors members globally and a large percentage of our guests is driven through the loyalty to Hilton Honors, encouraging return guests and stays.

The program is well-positioned and always looking to reward our esteemed members – from complimentary room upgrades, preferential check-in experiences, early check-in and late check-out to exclusive access to our Executive Lounge for our Diamond guests.

The convenience and ease of the program also means that the guest benefits from many industry-leading enhancements to improve guest experiences from streamlined booking process to automatic upgrades, Digital Key, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms.

All of these improve our guest satisfaction and loyalty. Not forgetting that Honors members can also receive points for Meetings, Events and Weddings booked at the hotel. Whether you are here on Business or Leisure, there is always a good reason to belong to our Hilton Honors family.

Rupert, what are some of your favourite things to do in the local area?

For me, there’s no better way to bond than over food. Here in Orchard Road, there is a myriad of dining options and experiences from the local hawker fare to fine-dining MICHELIN-starred restaurants that cater to the budget of every traveler.

Beyond food, I enjoy spending time with friends and family at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is also a 10-minute drive away from the Hotel and Orchard Road – a good way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and also relaxing by another popular local attraction; Sentosa’s beach clubs.

Those who enjoy shopping will love to be where Hilton Singapore Orchard is located with a long stretch of luxury and upscale iconic shopping malls within walking distance. hilton.com

The Singapore Edition

Marriott’s hyper cool, luxurious Edition hotels brand made its long-awaited debut in South East Asia in late-2023 with the opening of the Singapore Edition and the property has continued to create headlines since. Wayfarer checks in.

Masterminded and conceived by the legendary Ian Schrager in collaboration with interior design firm Cap Atelier, the 204-room Singapore Edition hotel is located just off the west end of the city’s iconic upper Orchard Road.

“It was a thrill for us to do a hotel in Singapore and to come up with a project as sophisticated and beautiful as the city itself,” Schrager said.

This once bucolic country lane lined with fruit orchards and pepper and nutmeg plantations is, today, transformed into a heaving stretch of restaurants, tree-shaded boulevards and marbled emporia bustling with bold-faced named fashion and lifestyle brands.

Accessed from Cuscaden Road, the hotel’s main entrance with its cobbled stone driveway opens into a private, white-hued oasis that stands singularly apart from the bustle of upper Orchard Road.

At the core of the architecture and interior design of The Singapore Edition is seamless access to nature with sweeping vistas and greenery integrated throughout, including a skypark and lushly planted, sunken garden that offers a tranquil escape from Singapore’s bustling Orchard Road shopping district.

Unfolding like a theatrical play, every level of The Singapore Edition takes on a different personality, offering unique guest experiences.

Each individual element stands on its own but when combined, the sum of these individual parts exceeds its sum, creating an alchemy where magic happens.

The Lobby Bar, for instance, is an eye-popping space sheathed in sharp pink velvet where a rose-colored pool table of Calacutta marble and oversized pink backlit bar display hold center-stage.

Christian Liaigre doe leather chairs and lamps accent the space, while the bar itself is styled with Lalique-inspired crystal decanters and sculptures.

Flanking the soaring white aerie of the lobby and reception is a high vaulted-ceilinged, timber-lined restaurant spearheaded by celebrated Sydney chef Josh Niland.

Aptly named FYSH at Edition, this lofty space is the acclaimed Australian restaurateur and multi-awardwinning chef and author’s first restaurant outside of Australia, and it features an impressive sustainable seafood-focused steakhouse menu alongside responsibly sourced vegetables and meats.

Anchored by a custom-made marble bar in green

scalloped Antico Verde marble, and a large show kitchen, the main dining room seats 80 across intimate jade velvet banquettes and booths with Calacutta white marble tables.

Art works frame the space; with 14-carat gold leaf etching greeting diners at the entrance, while a custom piece by the artist Christian Furr sits over the bar.

A leafy conservatory has capacity for 22; this indoor garden is home to over 300 plants and 162 suspended preserved fern spheres, all born in Southeast Asia. A Luna Alabaster sculpture by Jan Vanderlaan finishes the room. An outdoor pergola provides a perch for a further 44 diners when the cooler tropical evening arrives.

From the lobby, a sculpted, white Venetian plaster staircase spirals elegantly down to the garden courtyard level to a dramatic bar lounge, ideal for a pre-dinner aperitif or a late evening cocktail.

For those wishing to extend the evening’s libations, an inconspicuous side-door leads to the adjoining Punch Room – Edition’s signature bar concept that is a global brand in itself – where punch is championed as both a cocktail and a lifestyle necessity.

Swathed in a shade of Yves Klein blue, the intimate bar is an indulgent cocoon. Lined with oak panels on the walls and ceilings, a sculptural blue ceiling pendant designed by

the Parisian artist Eric Schmitt, and a stone fan-shaped floor mosaic, the space channels the intimate mood of a classic London gentleman’s club serving brandy with a modern and deviant approach.

The cosmopolitan vibe is enhanced by a handsome bronze bar behind which the mixologist shakes up a unique punch cocktail menu inspired by Southeast Asian spices and imaginative bar snacks.

The spacious guest rooms unfold over six light-filled floors. Here, every detail has been designed to ensure that the experience of spending the night or a longer stay is as seamless and soothing as it is sophisticated. Every detail has been considered to ensure a comfortable and serene haven that is both sophisticated and simple, appealing to the in-the-know guest.

In every guest room, warm white rugs clad the customized white oak-planked floors while decorative pots of orchids and thick drapes frame the broad bay windows.

The rooms also feature deep-seated sofas, and handsewn damask throws that swathe the beds. Temperatures are kept cool, literally, with layers of curtain sheers, black-out shades, and white exterior louvres that can be electronically adjusted to filter the sun while providing both views and privacy.

In a hotel already filled with so many unforgettable memories, The Singapore Edition saves its bravura moment for the swimming pool and rooftop terrace.

Accessible via The Roof bar, the pool is framed with languid day beds and stretches a full 43-m from tip to tip, seemingly floating like an all-white space vessel over the garden courtyard nine floors below.

Here, vast swathes of stone and landscaping create a relaxed, one-of-a-kind outdoor oasis in the sky; though a further surprise awaits swimmers as they dive in and discover that the pool’s white-tiled base is embedded with a transparent acrylic oculus that provides them with surreal views into the garden courtyard far below.

editionhotels.com

GETTING TO SINGAPORE

Wayfarer recommends flying to Singapore in Business Class on Singapore Airlines, which offers daily flights to city from over 130 destinations around the globe. Singapore Airlines operates several aircraft types to Singapore, including the Boeing 777-300ER, the Airbus A350-900 and the Airbus A380-800. On flights to Singapore, you can ‘Book the Cook’ and reserve your main course up to 24 hours before you fly, including creations by notable chefs from the carrier’s International Culinary Panel. You’ll dine in restaurant setting onboard with full table service, and wines to match the food and altitude. There’s free WiFi available for Business, First and Suites customers and alongside fantastic food, hospitality and comfort, find thousands’ of hours entertainment on demand including new-release movies, TV shows, music, games and more. singaporeair.com

WILD CEYLON

For years Sri Lanka has been one of the world’s most underrated destinations thanks to its spectacular scenery, abundance of wildlife, pristine beaches and more recently, incredible hospitality, largely thanks to the passion and growth from luxury hotel operators Resplendent Ceylon.

The name Resplendent Ceylon certainly evokes mystery, elegance and luxury and for discerning travellers, it has quickly become synonymous with amazing escapes on the Indian Ocean island of Sri Lanka.

Conceived by the Fernando family, Sri Lankan tea producers and founders of Dilmah Ceylon Tea, Resplendent Ceylon’s collection of boutique resorts offer the luxury traveller an incredible journey across Sri Lanka.

The collection features five unique resorts, Ceylon Tea Trails in the tea Highlands, Wild Coast Tented Lodge beach-side at Yala National Park and Cape Weligama on

the south coast near Galle and two beachside villastyle stays, Kayaam House in Tangalle and Ahu Bay in Ahungalla.

Given the Fernando family’s global reputation for producing fine tea that’s available to be enjoyed globally through their Dilmah brand, it is no surprise the Ceylon Tea Trails retreat in the Highlands garners most of the worldwide attention and remains one of Asia’s most in-demand hotels.

Down on the nation’s rugged and spectacular coastline however, Wild Coast Tented Lodge and Cape Weligama have firmly appeared on the global magazine hot lists of late thanks to their experiences, luxury accommodations and fantastic hospitality.

Wild Coast Tented Lodge

Resplendent Ceylon’s most striking creation is Wild Coast Tented Lodge, adjacent to the world famous Yala National Park, renowned for being home to 215 bird species and 44 mammalian species including the Sri Lankan leopard.

This spectacular luxury tented camp, a UNESCO design award winner, is situated in a stunning location where the jungle meets a pristine beach, overlooking the blue waters of the Indian Ocean.

Wild Coast Tented Lodge’s unique design, masterminded by a consortium of Dutch, English and Sri Lankan designers, sees the man-made structures blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape thanks to the use of carefully selected natural materials.

The use of arched fabric structures allows each of the 28 cocoon tents to take on the shape and colour of the rocks and boulders that lay scattered nearby, whilst a clever layout in the shape of a leopard’s paw print alludes to the area’s most famous resident.

While their main buildings, made of bamboo, blend in with the distinctive rock formations of Yala, their uniquely shaped tents, called Cocoons and Urchins, represent a luxury five-star resort room under canvas, offering state-of-the art amenities including air-conditioning.

There are three kinds of accommodations on offer, the Cocoon Suites, Cocoon Pool Suites and the Family Cocoon Suites.

Cocoon Suites boast soaring vaulted ceilings, offering jungle views from the double-height double glazed facades.

The interiors fuse colonial expedition chic with contemporary design innovations, from freestanding handmade copper bathtubs to sumptuous fourposter beds.

Teak floors and canvas walls complement dark leather touches and repurposed metallic hardware for an eclectic and design-led aesthetic.

The Cocoons are also dotted around watering holes attracting wildlife, which can be viewed from outdoor decks.

Four secluded beachside Cocoon Pool Suites also offer private plunge pools, while the Family Cocoon Suites sport an adjoining twin-bedded 20m Urchin, perfect for older kids, offering privacy and space for parents and children alike.

All of the rooms feature air conditioning, teak floors, WiFi, an all-inclusive minibar and Sonos audio.

The open-air bamboo-clad Bar and Dining Pavilion – designed to mirror the boulders scattered across the golden beach beyond – wrap around the resort’s enormous free-form swimming pool.

Guests can enjoy creative daily-changing menus of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in the restaurant, as well as sundowner cocktails and picnics al fresco on the sand dunes, watching dusk settle over the Indian Ocean.

When dining at Wild Coast Tented Lodge, guests will be treated to an array of gourmet safari cuisine with a Sri Lankan flair, served in the elegant bamboo Dining Pavilion open to the ocean breezes. Alternatively, guests can dine romantically in the beautiful natural beach garden under a star-studded Sri Lankan night sky.

Breakfast features a wide array of traditional Sri Lankan and international breakfast offerings, while lunch is a la carte with perennial favourites with a wild coast twist, comfort food, healthy options and more.

Post evening game drive cocktails and snacks takes place on the stunning beach outside the Lodge and dinner features uniquely Wild Coast fare, inspired by nature and the freshness of local produce.

There’s a library at the Lodge, which also doubles up as an educational centre where guests learn about the wildlife in the park and watch documentaries, further explained by the lodge’s expert guides.

The Sanctuary Spa at Wild Coast Tented Lodge rounds out the experience and boasts treatments that include two native Sri Lankan ingredients, Ceylon Tea and Ceylon Cinnamon, used in the spa’s oils, scrubs and poultices.

All Resplendent Ceylon resorts are underpinned by an unwavering commitment to sustainability and ethical business practice, which Wild Coast certainly exemplifies.

Water is desalinated from the ocean and recycled into water holes for animals to drink from, a solar plant meets energy needs and organic waste is composted on site.

The Lodge is also building a conservation centre dedicated to monitoring and protecting vulnerable wildlife within the surrounding area, including the Sri Lankan leopard, which you could be fortunate enough to see on one of the daily game drives at the lodge.

A nature-lover’s paradise, Wild Coast offers exceptional wilderness experiences, allowing guests to immerse themselves in some of the richest biodiversity in Sri Lanka.

Vehicles will whisk guests to the quietest corners of Yala National Park, whilst their rangers will be on hand to talk guests through the incredible diversity of flora and fauna, including elephants, sloth bears and leopards.

A variety of lectures and workshops, with focuses ranging from wild elephant behaviour to bird watching and nature walks, will offer an insight into the fascinating natural surroundings. In addition, the lodge also offers excursions to ancient Buddhist and Hindu sites.

The Wild Coast Tented Lodge offers a truly remarkable escape in a part of South Asia that’s remarkably still so undiscovered.

Cape Weligama

Cape Weligama has reopened its doors following extensive refurbishments, revealing a new look and facilities that meld minimalism with tropical island living.

From its origins as a sleepy fishing village, Weligama, which recently marked 10 years of operating, has blossomed into the epicentre of the Southern Riviera, with a vibrant beach scene, world-class surfing, historic cinnamon estates and an influx of emerging restaurants and bars - it was Cape Weligama that put the destination on the map for the luxury traveller, a decade ago.

Its crescent-shaped bay is a surfer’s paradise, offering consistent waves and golden beaches, while for travellers seeking culture, nearby landmarks such as Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the hand-carved rock temple of Mulkirigala provide glimpses into Sri Lanka's storied past.

Whilst nature enthusiasts will revel in whale-watching excursions, while divers can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life and with its temperate tropical climate, Weligama promises year-round allure.

Located on one of the island’s most impressive coastlines, guests can now enjoy a brand-new safe and secluded beach and beach club alongside innovative culinary offerings, updated family suites and an all-new ‘Forest School Kids Club’.

Cape Weligama’s new look and facilities highlight the brand's continued mission to bring together a community of like-minded travellers to the southern shores of this mighty island.

Guests of Cape Weligama now have direct access to the new Cove Beach, a secluded and safe beach offering easy access to golden sands and gentle waves.

The new Cove Beach Bar will offer guests refreshing cocktails and Sri Lankan light-bites all enjoyed with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

Honouring the deep roots of Ceylon’s renowned tea heritage, The Society, the lounge and bar at Cape Weligama has also relaunched with a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.

Featuring ambient spaces, an extensive book collection, and panoramic views, guests can enjoy traditional Ceylon high tea ceremonies and sunset cocktails.

private dining experiences, corporate meetings, intimate celebrations. It also features an adjoining garden, providing an additional outdoor setting for events, plus there’s a new gift shop with carefully curated clothing, jewellery, teas, spices, books and accessories from across the island.

Cape Weligama is an exciting getaway for little travellers with activities designed for children of all ages, no matter the weather.

The new Forest School Kids Club is a natureinspired programme designed to nurture creativity and independence whilst showcasing the island's vibrant wildlife and natural landscape. Activities include tree climbing, sand building and vegetable gardening.

Cape Weligama’s 39 suites and villas have also expanded to cater to more multigenerational trips, with eight sets of two-bedroom interconnected suites, comprising a Master Suite and Junior Suite.

As well as three new Cape Residences, totalling 310 square metres, these Residences feature a Prestige Villa, complete with a private infinity pool on the upper floor and an internal staircase offering total privacy.

The resort' timeless interiors will continue to celebrate the South Coast's vibrant local culture, natural beauty and tropical ambience.

Further updates include the Moon Room, a versatile space designed for a variety of activities, including

There are also upgraded food and beverage options across the resort including a special in villa dining experience and the owners undertook technology upgrades in all rooms including premium Ruark audio.

resplendentceylon.com

GETTING THERE

Wayfarer recommends flying to Colombo on Sri Lankan Airlines, the nation’s flag carrier, which offers fantastic meals, onboard entertainment and legendary South Asian hospitality. Sri Lankan Airlines flies to Colombo from across the world, including London, Sydney, Melbourne and more, on the carrier’s Airbus A330 fleet that feature spacious flatbed seats in Business Class and comfortable seats in Economy Class. Onboard across both cabins, expect delightful Sri Lankan and western dishes in both cabins, plus leading movies and TV shows on the airline’s inflight entertainment system. . srilankan.com

Style leaders: The Maybourne Beverly Hills and Santa Monica Proper (right)

California cool

From the hustle and bustle of Hollywood to the South Bay beaches, shops of Rodeo Drive and hikes in the hills, Los Angeles offers incredible experiences for a short or long stay. Wayfarer checks in to five hotels that need to be on your hit list for your next visit to the City of Angels.

The Maybourne Beverly Hills

When Maybourne Hotel Group opened the company’s first property in Los Angeles in 2023, it firmly upped the accommodation ante in Beverly Hills, bringing European luxury style and epic dining just steps away from Rodeo Drive.

The Maybourne Beverly Hills is one of the most exciting new hotels in Los Angeles. It spans nine floors with panoramic sun filled balconies, overlooking the Beverly Cañon Gardens, dotted with swaying palm trees and verdant gardens.

Maybourne’s guestrooms and suites were artfully designed in collaboration with designer Bryan O’Sullivan, resulting in bright, spacious interiors with bespoke furniture and a soothing Californian pastel palette, but all with a European flair.

“An exquisite blend of superlative design and contemporary comfort, our new luxury rooms and suites are a sanctuary from which to discover a city steeped in Hollywood history and cultural cachet,” says The Maybourne Beverly Hills General Manager, Sam Jagger.

“Wide, floor-to-ceiling windows welcome the subtle glow of the same technicolour skies that inspired the formidable filmmakers of the Golden Age.

“From the armchairs to the ottomans, luxurious takes on mid-century classic furniture hark back to L.A.’s rich design heritage – after all this was the home of such pioneers as Charles and Ray Eames and Richard Neutra, who worked prolifically in the shadow of these very hills. “Highly collectible artworks, sumptuous marble bathrooms and 600-thread count linens provide the most exquisite finishing touches to the finest of stays,” he says.

Our favourite room category is the Rodeo Suite, which is sleek and spacious, yet calm and cocooning. Expect 1,000 sq ft of light-filled space dotted with nooks for leafing

through the curated library of contemporary art, fashion and photography books.

In the Rodeo Suite, curved furnishings, calming tones and crisp linens define the interiors, a modernist interpretation of mid-century design. Find a dash of deco in the fluid, rounded lines and fluted features.

The Suite also features marble bathrooms, while the elegant dining table serves up an invitation to entertain over stylish suppers or cocktails.

With the Hollywood Hills in the distance, the scene is set and that’s accentuated with all of the brilliant suite freebies, including a bottle of Billecart-Salmon Le Réserve NV Champagne, seasonal amenity, fresh flowers on arrival, complimentary unpacking, packing and pressing up to five items, complimentary John Lobb Shoeshine service and access to a BMW i7 and usage for up to four hours per day.

All rooms also include a minibar stocked with Californian treats including complimentary soft drinks, complimentary bottled water and access to the house car service.

Guests also have access to a 24-hour fitness centre equipped with Peloton bikes, Technogym elliptical trainers and dumbbells by Pent, alongside preferred bookings at the largest luxury spa in Los Angeles, featuring a mineral pool, steam rooms and sauna.

Art is central to the design and guest experience at each Maybourne property and here you can expect stunning artworks and photographs across the hotel alongside

stunning, instagrammable floral displays that change regularly in the lobby.

Atop the hotel is the heated rooftop pool and private cabanas, with food and drinks – sip on a freshly-squeezed juice and enjoy a light salad or treat yourself to a chilled glass of rosé and a selection of sharing snacks – from one of Los Angeles’ best bars and restaurants, Dante.

Wayfarer’s favourite hotel bar in Los Angeles, Dante arrived at the property in Spring 2023 and brought a taste of Australia and New York City to the roof of the Maybourne Beverly Hills in stunning fashion.

Dante hails from Greenwich Village in New York City and opened in 2015 before quickly earning some of the world’s most major awards in the bar and restaurant industry, including number one and number two on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, Time Out New York’s Bar of the Year, and World’s Best Bar and Best American Restaurant Bar at the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards.

The Dante brand, which now has four venues in New York alongside Beverly Hills, is helmed by Australians Linden Pride and Nathalie Hudson, who have a focus on celebrating the traditional way of community, good living and dining.

Dante Beverly Hills serves up its signature, awardwinning, aperitivo-style cocktails, paired with an Italian and Mediterranean inspired food menu centred around a wood-fired oven, showcasing fresh ingredients sourced from small, local producers.

“We couldn’t be happier to have immerse ourselves in the Los Angeles community and grown the Dante brand in an authentic, organic way,” Pride says.

From leisurely lunches to sundowners, signature spritzes are paired with Mediterranean-inspired dishes, beautifully prepared in the wood-fired oven.

Here, it’s easy to settle into the shifting, pastel-hued interior for hours while enjoying freshly shucked oysters, followed by crispy king salmon and a velvety panna cotta. Or you can soak up panoramic vistas over pizza bianca on the alfresco terrace, dotted with white marble and verdant foliage.

There’s also live music every afternoon and don’t miss Dante’s $10 Martini Hour, from 3pm-5pm daily.

While Dante might be our favourite spot, the hotel is also

home to several other top venues for drinking and dining, including The Maybourne Bar for cocktails, The Terrace for a delicious lunch or dinner and an exceptional Spritz, plus The Maybourne Café for a fantastic chai latte.

The hotel has also recently introduced Prêt-à-Portea, the legendary fashion tea from its London sister hotel, The Berkeley.

After nearly two decades of delighting guests in London, the beloved high fashion take on afternoon tea has made its American debut with Prêt-à-Portea: The Red Carpet Collection.

A favourite among fashionistas with a sweet tooth, Prêtà-Portea has redefined afternoon tea with playful couture cakes turning celebrity fashion moments into edible art.

Prêt-à-Portea: The Red Carpet Collection, reflecting its new LA home will feature a curation of cakes that pay homage to iconic red carpet moments, from Björk’s famous Oscar swan dress by Marjan Pejoski to JLo’s infamous green Versace gown at the Grammy’s.

Served in the hotel’s Terrace Tearoom just round the corner from fashion favourite Rodeo Drive, guests will enjoy a glamorous tea experience where English garden charm meets Hollywood chic.

The pastries, crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Brooke Martin, are presented on peach and white striped bone China by French porcelain brand Bernardaud.

“We are honouring the tradition from London with a unique LA spin paying homage to our destination in celebrating some of the most iconic moments in Red Carpet history,” Jagger says.

Prêt-à-Portea: The Red Carpet Collection is served Friday through Sunday each week with two seatings at 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm.

The experience includes a selection of delectable tea sandwiches, scones, and savoury delights, along with nine gorgeous couture-inspired desserts, and a glass of champagne.

Whether you’re here to relax by the pool, shop along Rodeo Drive or have some of the world’s best cocktails at Dante, The Maybourne Beverly Hills is one hotel that needs to be high on your Los Angeles hotel list.

maybourne.com

Pendry West Hollywood

When the Pendry West Hollywood opened in Los Angeles in April 2021, it created a major buzz in the heart of California’s thriving nightlife neighbourhood and now, thanks to the City of Angels being one of the world’s hottest destinations, the property is winning over travellers from across the globe.

Over the past nine years, the Proper Hotels brand has been setting benchmarks in the United States accommodation scene, particularly with its properties in California, headlined by one of our favourites in Santa Monica.

Located at the site of the former House of Blues, Pendry West Hollywood is firmly in the centre of the action of Los Angeles’ popular Sunset Strip and at this stunning new luxury hotel, you’ll find 149 rooms and suites alongside some of the best bars and restaurants in the city.

Here, it’s all about a fantastic sleep in luxurious comfort, enjoying epic views of Los Angeles from the rooftop pool and bar, tasting exceptional food and wine at Merois and hitting the lanes at Pendry West Hollywood’s own bowling alley in the private members club.

While we love the property’s stylish and comfortable rooms and suites, where the hotel truly excels is in the bars and restaurants on offer, under the guidance of legendary restaurateur Wolfgang Puck.

“Sunset Boulevard has always held a special place in my heart,” Puck said at the hotel’s opening and what he has delivered is something exceptional.

Leading the way is Merois, which has a menu that Puck infused with what he describes as “sophisticated subtleties of Japanese, Southeast Asian and French-California cuisine”.

Signature dishes include Crispy Scale Whole Black Sea Bass, Japanese A5 New York Strip alongside Vegan Sushi and Squid Noodles, made from thinly sliced calamari with Thai Basil in a Ginger-Garlic Clam Broth.

For those that don’t want to go for the whole restaurant experience, Bar Merois offers fantastic bar bites, great wines by the glass and a cocktail list that’s the standout on this end of the Sunset Strip.

pendry.com

Terranea Resort

Located on the rugged and luxurious Palos Verdes Peninsula, Terranea Resort is incredibly unique to Los Angeles and unexpectedly amazing in so many ways.

Easily one of the best luxury oceanfront resorts in Southern California, Terranea features 102 acres of unparalleled Pacific Ocean views.

The property opened in 2009 and offers world-class accommodations that range from hotel suites to bungalows, oceanfront casitas and luxurious villas.

Terranea is home to some fantastic amenities, including The Links at Terranea, a nine-hole, par-3 golf course, an epic award-winning 50,000-square-foot oceanfront spa, fitness and wellness center, four swimming pools, 140-foot waterslide, luxurious boutiques and eight dining venues showcasing its farm-to-Terranea culinary philosophy utilizing local and seasonal ingredients.

Terranea's bountiful land boasts herb and vegetable gardens, lemon groves and more, which are found in all of the property’s restaurants, including signature restaurant Mar'sel, casual Southern California lifestyle fare at the popular, bluff side Nelson's, all-day dining venue Catalina Kitchen, Bashi which offers a contemporary blend of Asian cuisine and local flavours, The Grill at the Resort Pool, The Spa Café at solviva, the Lobby Bar and Terrace and the inventive grab-and-go offerings at Sea Beans.

At Wayfarer’s favourite Mar'sel, expect New American dishes featuring farm-to-table creations using ingredients

from Terranea's herb and vegetable garden and from nearby Catalina View Farms alongside an epic wine list.

Mar'sel's wine collection of 375 bottles provide guests with a fantastic selection of both New World and Old World varietals – California cult, French Bordeaux, Burgundy and many others from Italy, Portugal, Oregon, Germany, Australia, Austria, New Zealand, South Africa, Chile, Argentina, Hungary and Spain.

The 5,000-bottle wine cellar is meticulously maintained with prestige and vintage wines offered through the Coravin system to preserve optimal freshness and quality. In addition, Mar'sel teammates collaborate with guests to present outstanding, bi-monthly, interactive vintner dinners.

The entire dining experience is complemented by the sound of crashing waves and panoramic Pacific Ocean views.

At the Catalina Kitchen find one of the best buffet-style restaurants in America and with the Pacific Ocean outside, expect some fantastic seafood, like Shrimp Cocktail, Wakame Salad, Dungeness Crab, Fusilli Pasta Salad, Salmon Poke, Shrimp Aguachiles, Ahi Tuna Causa, Seafood Dip, Tempura Shrimp, Steamed Crab, Freshly Shucked Oysters and Whole Roasted Striped Bass with tomato confit and more.

From the Stone Oven, expect dishes like Pizza with figs, blue cheese and arugula; a pizza with short rib, grilled onions and mushrooms; and one with three cheeses, while from the Carving Board, choose from delights like Herb Crusted Prime Rib, Grilled Tomahawk Steak, Rack of Lamb, Whole Roasted Chicken or Andouille, Bratwurst and Italian Sausage.

For the sweet ending, a must visit is the Pastry and Dessert Station filled with tempting pastries for kids and adults alike.

At Bashi, which offers a contemporary blend of Asian cuisine, expect favourites like Surf and Turf Sushi Roll with seared wagyu beef, spicy lobster, avocado, tobiko and eel sauce, Singaporean-Style Chili Lobster Tail and for dessert, Lemon Ginger Crème Brûlée.

Specialising in Coastal Cuisine, casual Nelson's has some fantastic meals like the signature burger or Seared Lemon Pepper Salmon served with roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans, balsamic glaze and baked potato with chives and sour cream. Don’t skip the Pomegranate Margarita made with Tanteo Blanco Tequila shaken with pomegranate juice and housemade maple syrup.

Alongside the fantastic restaurant, bar and café offerings, there’s plenty to explore here, including Terranea's rich terrain that includes miles of scenic coastal trails, a secluded beach cove and ocean environments.

Fun, enriching programs and activities such as falconry, archery, kayaking and paddle boarding also abound.

One of the most exciting things at the property recently has been the US$4.5 million refresh of The Spa at Terranea, an absolute coastal Southern California wellness standout.

“We are thrilled to elevate the guest experience and create a luxurious yet approachable waterfront space for our visitors," says Terranea Resort President, Ralph Grippo.

“According to new data, with travellers engaging in more self-care experiences, the global spa market is expected to increase to over US$156 billion by 2027.

“Our intentional upgrades masterfully capture both the energy and serenity of the stunning Palos Verdes Peninsula.

“The new interior design accents and fine touches enhance the spa's breezy indoor/outdoor motif, eliciting a delicate harmony with nature while enriching our worldclass facilities and amenities to accommodate a rising demand,” he says.

Masterminded by Los Angeles-based RVD Associates, the top-to-bottom update of the 50,000-square-foot oceanfront space melds seamlessly with the region's unspoiled natural habitat with airy new modern décor throughout, a dramatic new entry and lobby, modernised locker and bathrooms, refreshed treatment rooms and lounge areas and a revitalization of the lush, outdoor areas.

RVD Principal, Rodrigo Vargas, says the new design draws its inspiration from the raw coastal beauty of the surrounding area - with a fresh colour palette of soft blues, sandy neutrals and organic materials punctuated by soft tactile accents and bold contemporary artwork.

He says luminous new modern light fixtures lend dynamic dimension while refurbished stone flooring and custom Venetian plaster walls infuse refined elegance with key enhancements.

Alongside an upgrade of the lobby and relaxation areas, the spa's 25 treatment rooms have all been refreshed as well with new paint, cabinets in rich dark cherry wood, Living Earth Crafts spa beds, hot towel warming cabinets and other equipment to enhance the guest experience.

The Spa's stunning oceanfront outdoor spaces - lush gardens surrounding the private spa pool and hot tubs, relaxation lounges and fire pits - deepen a connection to the natural habitat and have been rejuvenated with fresh greenery and vibrant plantings.

The oceanfront spa pool – our pick of the pools to relax at – also features new outdoor furnishings, patio umbrellas and freshly recanvassed cabanas.

Also situated to allow breathtaking ocean panoramas, the 5,000-square-foot fitness and wellness center features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows to bring the beauty of nature indoors, and has been upgraded with state-ofthe-art Precor equipment, offering everything from free weights to cardio and strength training machines.

New additions include two Peloton bikes, a Peloton rowing machine, nine TRM treadmills, two stair climbers, an air bike and more.

As part of its renovation, the spa has introduced two rejuvenating treatments, the Harmonic Aura Awakening – a treatment that harnesses the healing vibrations of Himalayan singing bowls, which are expertly placed on and around the body to awaken the body's chakra points – and the HydraFacial, which deeply cleanses the skin through hydra-dermabrasion and a gentle peel, extracting impurities while infusing potent antioxidants and hydration.

Terranea offers a fantastic escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles and you are also close to so many great spots, like the South Bay Beaches and Disneyland not far south.

terranea.com

The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills

The

London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills is tucked away off the Sunset Strip, commanding great views of Los Angeles from its popular rooftop pool.

Ideally located at the crossroads of Beverly Hills and central LA, The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills is a stylish hotel that epitomises modern luxury for the business and leisure travellers like.

With spacious, all-suite accommodations, seamless service, inspired culinary options, and excellent amenities – including a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city and beyond – our hotel is a great urban refuge in the heart of West Hollywood.

The hotel’s 226 spacious suites combine sophisticated comfort, fantastic views over the city and a signature sense of California cool.

In the suites designed by David Collins Studio and Richard Design, expect oversized spa-like luxury baths by Waterworks and comfortable beds, including ultra-luxe ones by Bryte.

The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills recently teamed up with Silicon Valley’s Bryte to create The Bryte Sleep Experience in six of the hotel’s signature London One Bedroom Suites and select Gate Suites.

Featuring The Bryte Balance Bed, this enhancement represents the most cutting-edge sleep technology available in hotels worldwide and guests of The London West Hollywood can be among the first in the world to experience what will surely become the future of sleep.

Bryte Balance with Restorative AI allows guests to

personalize their sleep experience and is designed with purposeful, connected technologies that work together to unlock restorative sleep.

Fall asleep faster with Somnify, a library of sleep content that syncs gentle, head-to-toe motion in the mattress with curated audio and wake less often with Bryte Balancing Technology as it actively removes pressure imbalances for longer periods of uninterrupted sleep.

You can also independently choose your comfort with Dual Comfort Tailoring, all using your own device.

Guests of The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills who enjoy the Bryte Balance Smart Bed and wish to bring the experience back home with them will receive a special discount to purchase their own.

When it comes to food and drinks, there’s Boxwood restaurant, the London Bar and Sitting Room and a delightful afternoon tea. Expect very good cocktails alongside steaks, meats, seafoods and salads, with the winner firmly being the Maine lobster.

The absolute winner at London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills is without a doubt the rooftop pool, which is exclusively reserved for hotel guests and features a spacious sundeck, private cabanas, firepit and panoramic views across Los Angeles.

thelondonwesthollywood.com

Santa Monica Proper

When it first debuted in mid-2019, the Santa Monica Proper Hotel quickly became one of the hottest hotels in Los Angeles and thanks to its brilliant style and hospitality, it’s remained incredibly popular since.

Over the past eight years, the Proper Hotels brand has been setting benchmarks in the United States accommodation scene, particularly with its properties in California, headlined by one of our favourites in Santa Monica.

The Santa Monica Proper Hotel is firmly an architectural wonder just seven blocks from the crashing waves of the ocean, spanning two stylistically disparate buildings linked by an artfully crafted bridge.

With interior design by Kelly Wearstler, the hotel is a lesson in restrained elegance—think nature-inspired palettes, light hardwood floors, and organic textures augmented by artworks from emerging local artists.

The exquisitely pared-down aesthetics provide the stylish backdrop to the neighbourhood’s only indooroutdoor rooftop playground, complete with pool, cabanas, restaurant and bar.

Located at 700 Wilshire Blvd in Santa Monica’s downtown core, the property is housed across two buildings that present contrasting styles; one is a

1928-built Spanish Colonial Revival landmark building and the other is a sleek, contemporary new-build.

Linked by a suspended bridge, the resulting structure not only stands as a striking architectural standpoint in the neighbourhood but also optimises the ocean breezes and abundant Californian sunlight.

The rich Moorish detailing and Art Deco ornamentation of the older building have been conserved and updated, while the sweeping new build is monolithic in nature, creating a soothing palette for the multi-faceted design.

Santa Monica Proper’s interior design finds inspiration in the tones and textures of the neighbourhood’s famed Pacific coastline.

A neutral colour palette is heightened by bold patterns and silhouettes, while organic, natural materials such as wood and stone provide an experiential element to the aesthetics.

Supporting the hyper-local visual concept, artwork has been sourced from emerging and established L.A.based artists such as Ben Medansky, Morgan Peck, and Tanya Aguiniga.

“As with the design for all of the Proper properties we were intentional about working with local artists to bring a truly authentic and localised experience to Santa Monica Proper,” said Wearstler.

“Earthy, raw materials, organic textiles and a layering in of art and landscape bring a rich sensory feeling into the hotel.”

Ranging from 325 to 925 square feet, the design of the hotel’s 271 rooms and suites is playful yet placid, layering muted tones and tactile textures with striking geometric shapes.

Informed by the kick-back L.A. lifestyle, the result is one of chic comfort defined by over-sized, statement headboards and an eclectic collection of vintage and modern furniture.

Many guestrooms offer living spaces, while balconies and terraces invite guests to embrace the seemingly endless days of summer. The Garden Terrace King Suites offer the epitome of outdoor living with expansive terraces featuring an inviting daybed.

The airy, flowing layout of the guestrooms extends to the bathrooms, accessed through a sliding door and outfitted in peach-toned stone. The obsidian-framed windows flood the space in natural daylight and brushed silver and gold accents add a touch of discreet elegance.

Santa Monica Proper’s crowning glory is the sweeping rooftop deck and pool, complete with a sleek pool, poolside cabanas, and a restaurant with beach-inspired bar.

Located on the 7th floor, the rooftop is the perfect perch from which to take in the Westside’s spectacular sunsets, naturally accompanied by a meticulously crafted sundowner.

Calabra, the rooftop’s striking inside-out bistro and bar, pairs ocean views with Mediterranean and Californian inspired cuisine and exceptional cocktails from the talented team of mixologists.

Where the hotel also excels is on the wellness front. Presided over by internationally renowned Ayurvedic guru Martha Soffer, the hotel’s Surya Spa offers customdesigned programs supporting physical and mental health.

Traditional massage therapies and treatments sit alongside yoga, meditation, and cooking sessions to ensure corporal and spiritual wellness.

A 2,500-square-foot gym will share Proper’s dedication to fitness and more than 24,000 square feet of indooroutdoor meeting and event space including various meeting areas with capacity for up to 500 will make this Santa Monica’s most proper place for corporate and social gatherings.

The Santa Monica Proper Hotel has been one of Wayfarer’s favourite hotels since its debut and it’s no surprise it continues to be the toast of L.A.’s westside.

properhotels.com

GETTING THERE

Qantas operates direct flights to Los Angeles from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney with Airbus A330s, A380s and B787s that feature the airline’s suite-style Business Class cabin.

Qantas’ Business Class cabin is headlined by a ‘suite’ seat – now available on all the Boeing 787-9, Airbus A330-200 and Airbus A330-300 jets in the fleet and select Airbus A380-800s – that has been popular with executive and leisure travellers since it first arrived on the scene in 2016.

This fantastic Business Class seat from the Flying Kangaroo can be reclined for take-off and landing, and the cabin offering also includes top Australian food and wine and world-class entertainment qantas.com

Rustic luxury

From afternoon tea in the treetops to swimming in waterfalls, enjoying outdoor showers, indulging in massages and enjoying some delicious Thai cuisine, Soneva Kiri offers an Asian escape that’s barefoot luxury at its finest. James Wilkinson checks-in.

In the most South-Eastern pocket of Thailand where the nation connects to Cambodia at the sea, one resort stands tall as the nation’s most unique island escape where sustainability meets luxury in the finest way.

That resort is Soneva Kiri and soon after walking off the private flight from Bangkok at the remote Ko Mai Si Airport, where you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve landed in the middle of the jungle, you quickly get a sense of what you’re in for.

From the remote airstrip. you head on a boat across to the island of Koh Kood, home to Soneva Kiri and known for its waterfalls, ancient rainforest and a lack of big brand resorts.

Here, it’s like heading back 40 years before tourism started booming in Thailand and as soon as you hop off the boat, you quickly get a feel for the unique style of the resort, which feels like a treehouse with subtle but beautiful tropical luxury touches right across the property from the villas, which are the size of houses, through to the outdoor cinema, myriad of restaurants, reading rooms and the spa.

When it comes to accommodations, the 32 private villas are all unique in their design and interiors and range in size from one to five bedrooms. They are found across the resort, from beachside to hidden in the jungle, on the hillsides and the clifftops, where you can expect spectacular views across the Gulf of Thailand.

Each is incredibly spacious and feature a private pool – some that are almost bigger than the villa interiors – alongside oversized indoor and outdoor living spaces and impeccable verdant gardens. Expect outdoor showers, relaxing areas, comfortable oversized beds and plenty of space to unwind.

The villas come complete with an electric buggy and bicycles to cruise around the property’s winding paths, explore the beaches and soak up the jungle atmosphere the resort offers.

As part of the ‘barefoot luxury’ this resort and all Soneva properties are known for, there’s also a butler –here known as a Barefoot Guardian – and you can expect excellent hospitality that’s available any time of the day or night.

One of the first things you should get the Barefoot Guardian to do is arrange afternoon tea high in the jungle as part of the resort’s Treepod Dining Experience. You’ll walk through the trees and then take a seat on the banquette in a bamboo pod, which is then raised high up into the tropical foliage of Koh Kood’s ancient rainforest.

As you gaze out across the trees and boulder-covered shoreline into the ocean, you’ll enjoy small plates of tasty Thai treats and matching fresh mocktails, all delivered to you on a zipline by your waiter.

While several times of the day are on offer for the experience, afternoon tea with the waves crashing onto the shore below is when this dining offering is at its best.

Another unique dining experience that is also incredible here is found by booking a table at local restaurant Kruua Mae Tuk, also known as Tuk’s Kitchen, where you can expect the best Traditional Thai food on Koh Kood.

Now this isn’t any ordinary restaurant because it’s not one that can be booked for anyone else on Koh Kood as it’s only available for guests of Soneva.

First, you’ll take a boat journey from the resort along the island’s beaches and then head up a river to a shack that sits on stilts.

It has a unique stylish tropical rustic feel which you

quickly sink in to, but the real winner here is the ‘nomenu’ dining concept, which offers a vast selection of dishes that are inspired by ingredients grown on Koh Kood, Koh Chang and seafood caught by local fishermen.

Back over at Soneva Kiri, score a table on the outdoor, open-air terrace amongst the trees at The View, where you will find a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, known as Nikkei, alongside a fantastic wine list and stunning views out across the Gulf of Thailand.

If the views and setting don’t win you over, the menu will and highlights include the Koh Kood spicy crab roll, pork belly and the salmon salad, best matched with a malbec from Mendoza after a chilled glass of Champagne.

What also impresses is the wine list and Soneva’s cellar features more than 350 labels in a climate-controlled cave, with organic and biodynamic wines making up more than 50 per cent of the collection.

If you’re after lunch on the beach or dinner under the stars, Coconut Grove is where you’ll find local and international delights, such as tandoori fish, Meen Moilee and fantastic local prawns.

Still on the dining experiences, when it comes to breakfast, the resort also impresses well with Thai and western cooked and chilled dishes alongside some of the most delicious fresh juices you’ll try in Thailand.

Given Soneva Kiri is a true destination resort, having this quality of food and beverage offerings really makes this property stand out and you know you can do a week here and have a fantastic array of cuisines to enjoy.

You’ll find wellness offerings in the menus across the property and the inspiration comes from the Soneva Kiri Spa, another standout offering at the resort.

The Soneva Kiri Spa is hidden away within Koh Kood’s pristine rainforest and it is an idyllic setting infused with traditional Thai charm.

Find eight couples’ treatment rooms, four include private steam rooms and a yoga pavilion that includes aerial yoga equipment. The spa also has three treatment spots by the beach, plus the men’s and women’s relaxation areas also include steam rooms and infrared saunas, while outside there is a tranquil organic spa garden, with four stone beds and a bamboo mist shower.

In keeping with the wellness and active theme there is also a lot to explore on the island, from Koh Kood’s hidden waterfalls to strolling on white sandy beaches and snorkelling in the marine park.

At night, head to the resort’s own state-of-the-art observatory, which offers 360-degree views of the starstrewn heaven, identifying constellations with the property’s resident astronomer. Given the resort’s remote location, you’ll have an incredible stargazing experience when the sky is clear and far from the light pollution of the mainland.

With so much offer, you can certainly have a fun-filled escape on Koh Kood. But then, you can also have the ultimate relaxation because that’s what Soneva Kiri is all about.

soneva.com

GETTING THERE

Soneva Kiri offers direct flights for guests from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport to airport island of Koh Mai Si, a five-minute boat ride from Koh Kood. Flights take around 90 minutes and round-trip journeys are priced at US$750 per adult and US$375 per child. Singapore Airlines can get you to Bangkok in style from across the globe via the carrier’s hub at Changi Airport. Flights are regularly operated by the carrier’s Airbus A350 aircraft, which offer one of the best Business Class cabins in Asia, complete with a ‘Book the Cook’ service. singaporeair.com

High flying on Cathay Pacific and Qantas (right)

BUSINESS LEADERS

From Sydney to Vancouver, Hong Kong and more, carriers across the globe have been upgrading the business class experience, from top-notch food and wine to Bluetooth capabilities. In a special report, Wayfarer reviews six cabins that need to be on your radar right now.

AIR CANADA

Air Canada’s Signature Class has been one of North America’s business class cabins since the product was launched on the Boeing 777 and as the carrier continues to spread its wings globally, the offering keeps excelling, as James Wilkinson discovers.

With fantastic Canadian hospitality, great food and wine, spacious sleeper seats, thousands of hours of entertainment and stylish amenity kits, Air Canada’s Signature Class has been one of North America’s best business class cabins for years.

As the carrier continues to open-up new routes like Hong Kong recently, the business class product has never been so popular.

The journey in British Columbia starts in style, because Air Canada’s airport experience is highlighted by the Signature Suite lounge in Vancouver and what’s on offer is exceptional.

The Air Canada Signature Suite lounge offers the best the nation has to offer in terms of food, design and comfort, alongside fantastic views of the airfield.

Ideal before a long-haul flight, particularly Australia and Asia, guests can sit down for an à la carte meal courtesy of a brilliant menu from renowned chef David Hawksworth, which is loaded up with local produce aplenty.

You’ll find a range of appetisers and mains and the starters include Soup Dumpling (Xiaolongbao), Beet and Chicory Salad, Mushroom Bisque, Hamachi Crudo, Roasted Squash Agnolotti and the headline order, the pan seared Hudson Valley Farm Foie Gras from Quebec.

When it comes to the mains, expect Beef Tenderloin, English Pea Falafel, the signature Hawksworth Beef Burger and our favourite, Poached British Columbia Halibut with maitake, peas, lardon and vermouth sauce.

Make sure you save room for dessert, which includes a Chocolate Pot de Crème, Earl Grey Panna Cotta, an Affogato and a daily selection of house-made ice cream.

On the wine front, the Air Canada Signature Suite lounge absolutely excels, with a line-up worthy of a leading Vancouver restaurant. Expect several wines from British Columbia’s leading and emerging wine regions, like the 2020 Clos du Soleil Chardonnay from the Similkameen Valley, the from the Okanagan Valley, the 2019 Mission Hills Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2020 JoieFarm PTG which is a blend of Gamay and Pinot Noir, and for dessert the 2018 Sperling Late Harvest Vidal.

There’s also a range of excellent cocktails on offer, including the Air Canada Signature concoction, a take on an Old Fashioned, made with Bulleit Rye, Averna amaro, sweet maple syrup and vanilla bitters.

Also expect an Espresso Martini, a New York Sour, Hemingway Daiquiri, a Classic Poloma and a tasty original drink, the Gate E77, made with Don Julio Blanco, Chartreuse, agave, lime, cucumber, mint and jalapeño salt.

With such an impressive food and drink list, you do genuinely feel like you’re dining in one of Vancouver’s best restaurants that would be more than worthy of a Michelin star.

Alongside the food and wine, the Signature Suite also offers areas to relax in pre-flight and the interiors are courtesy of acclaimed Montrealbased Heekyung Duquette, who brought in loads of natural light to the lounge alongside Canadian style aplenty.

The lounge features floor-toceiling bronze panelling, bar tops made from local stone and a custom chandelier, while design is complemented by art from some of Canada’s greatest talents, with contemporary furnishings “representing the pinnacle of craftsmanship and quality”, according to the airline.

When it comes time to freshen up, expect an array of premium

products, including luxury skincare amenities from Molton Brown.

It all adds-up to an excellent pre-flight experience highlighted by some of the best airline lounge food you’ll ever try.

After a fantastic meal, it’s time to hop on board and you’ll find the Signature Class experience onboard the Boeing 777 and Boeing 787 fleet that operate Air Canada’s longhaul routes.

The widebody aircraft feature an ‘Executive Pod’ in Signature Class, which feature lumbar support and a massage function and convert to a fully flatbed up to 203.2 cm (6′ 7″) long.

When it comes to sleeping, expect a pillow, duvet and mattress topper, while for eating and working, expect a large tray table and ample storage.

On the entertainment front, Air Canada’s inflight system has thousands’ of hours of movies, TV shows, podcasts, music, audio books and games on demand and featuring some of the latest Hollywood blockbusters and Emmy Award-winning TV shows.

Tune in with noise-cancelling headphones or bring your own cans, plug in easily and you’re away.

Air Canada also provides amenity kits for Business Class passengers that feature beauty products as well as socks, a toothbrush, toothpaste, eye cover, glass cloth, and earplugs.

Canada is known for its amazing array of produce and when you step aboard Air Canada, that’s exactly what you can expect like in the Vancouver Signature Suite lounge.

When it comes to the dining experience, you won’t be disappointed thanks to the meals once again being curated by Chef Hawksworth.

You’ll find an excellent menu with an appetiser, several mains and desserts, alongside delicious options for breakfast before landing.

On my flight to Sydney, the appetiser was a Mediterranean Mezze loaded-up with Hummus, roasted eggplant salad, Muhammara and Za'atar seasoned feta.

There were then four options for the mains, including a braised chicken thigh, roasted mushroom ravioli, tamari roasted sablefish and a true North American classic, barbecue pork baby back ribs with truffle mac and cheese topped and with a toasted breadcrumb garnish.

For dessert, there was cheesecake with streusel and raspberry compote and the cheese options were oka, cheddar and brie with grapes and crackers.

A number of inflight snacks are also available and these include delights like a chicken pot pie with potato wedges or a plate of tomatoes, bocconcini, basil and olive oil.

On the wine front, the onboard list is curated by award-winning Sommelier Véronique Rivest, one of most respected sommeliers in Canada and abroad. Her lists feature both Canadian and international wines, headlined by the small-production Jean-Noël Haton Champagne Brut Cuvee Classic from France, the Weinhaus Ress Dry Riesling from Rheingau, Germany and the Henry of Pelham Pinot Noir from Canada’s Niagara Peninsula.

Impressively, Air Canada also has several onboard cocktails on offer in Signature Class, including an Aperol Spritz, Classic Caesar, Rye and Ginger and our favourite, the Garibaldi with Campari and orange juice.

With fantastic onboard hospitality, top food and wine, comfortable seats and brilliant lounges, Air Canada offers one of the best experiences in the sky.

If you are looking at heading to their home nation of Canada or beyond to the United States, Europe, South America and more, you can expect a hospitable journey that truly showcases the best the nation has to offer.

EXPRESS TRANSIT TO THE USA IN VANCOUVER

One of the best things about flying Air Canada to North America is the express transit for onwards connections to the USA at Vancouver Airport.

After landing, you take a special path that leads to security and then US immigration, where you are processed before heading to the gate for your next flight without having to leave the terminal.

Then once you land in the United States, you simply collect your luggage and leave the terminal.

Air Canada offers fantastic connections to many top US destinations – including New York (Newark), Los Angles, San Francisco and more – and the express transit makes for a very simple journey.

aircanada.com

CATHAY PACIFIC

It’s no secret that Cathay Pacific’s Business Class cabin has been one of Asia’s best for well over a decade thanks to the spacious, lie-flat seats, exceptional hospitality, great inflight entertainment and high-quality food and beverage.

The best part? The experience keeps getting better, as James Wilkinson discovers on a journey to Hong Kong and London.

Cathay Pacific’s Airbus A350s and Boeing 777300ERs offer a fantastic flying experience from nose to tail, whether you’re in First, Business, Premium or Economy and that’s because this leading global carrier pays a lot of attention to its customers in knowing what they want.

Back in January 2024, Cathay Pacific elevated the dining experience for Economy and

Premium passengers thanks to a partnership with with Eaton Hong Kong’s Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Yat Tung Heen that saw signature dishes take to the skies.

“Teaming up with Yat Tung Heen, a culinary powerhouse in its own right, allows us to transform our inflight dining experience into something even more memorable for our customers,” said Cathay General Manager Customer Experience and Design Vivian Lo.

“Our hope is to enrich every traveller’s journey by giving them a taste of our home city’s unique and iconic flavours, brought to life by the culinary craftsmanship of Cathay Pacific and Yat Tung Heen.”

So, if you think about the quality of what the carrier is offering Economy and Premium passengers, then you’ll love what’s on offer in our favourite cabin onboard Cathay, being Business Class.

As someone who has flown

Cathay Pacific in Business Class more than 20 times in the past 10 years, I can say they have elevated the food onboard now to a point that it has never been better.

The current menu offers a fantastic taste of both Cantonese and international dishes and it is hard to choose a dish with so many tasty meals on offer, like braised pork belly with Shanghainese pak choy, roasted chicken breast with bread sauce, spice crusted cod with roasted cherry tomato sauce, beef brisket and tendon noodle soup, Japanese pork katsu with curry and rice, slow cooked lamb shoulder and more.

While lunch and dinner is most certainly a highlight on the latest Cathay Pacific Business Class menu, the best might be saved for morning arrivals with five breakfast offerings onboard.

Leading the way, impressively, is the wellness breakfast, which includes seasonal fresh fruit and a warm pastry selection alongside a delicious cacao chia seed pudding with coconut yoghurt and blackberries.

The lighter breakfast is also a winner and that is led by a twice baked souffle omelette, sauteed kale and cherry tomatoes, while the Chinese breakfast includes a salted chicken and mushroom congee and pan-fried turnip cake with XO sauce.

Should you be hungry during the flight, Cathay Pacific has some fantastic inflight bites, including a classic beef burger with gruyere cheese, coleslaw and gherkins on a toasted brioche bun with fries.

If you want to go healthier, the roasted cauliflower with chickpea stew and mint raita is also a delicious option.

Another way Cathay Pacific has been impressing on the food and drinks front inflight is with the ‘Discovery Wine’ menus that showcase top drops from across the globe.

Right now onboard, you’ll find a selection of Chinese wines that more than impress and showcase the rapidly rising high-quality

drinks the nation is producing. Expect up to three Discovery wines and at the minimum at least one very good one.

“Welcome to a journey of diverse flavours through Chinese wines that reflects its vast landscapes, distinct terroirs and cultural history,” the carrier says on the menu.

“Each bottle tells a unique and passional story of individuals that celebrates the growing reputation of Chinese wines on the world stage.”

Leading the way with the Chinese wines onboard is the 2018 Tiansai Skyline of Gobi Marselan Selection from Xinjiang, China.

“Founded by Chen Lizhong in 2010, Tiansai Vineyard is one of the first vineyards to be certified organic,” Cathay Pacific’s sommelier team says. “It also has one of China’s foremost wine experts, Li Demei, as its consulting winemaker.

“With a leafy, gamey nose and hints of red fruits, it opens on the palate to offer fresh blackcurrants, juicy red cherries and herbs, soft, earthy tannins, and an attractive long finish.”

Also look out for the 2022 Kanaan Winery Lao Wang Syrah from Ningxia, China, as well as the 2021 Starting Point Cabernet Franc from Ningxia, China, which are also delightful.

The delicious food aside, Cathay Pacific’s Business Class is headlined by spacious flatbeds seats that feature plenty of storage and space, alongside a sleeper service with large pillows and duvets, and hundreds’ of hours entertainment on demand.

Business Class is in a 1-2-1 layout, meaning all seats have direct aisle access and are some of the most spacious to be found in the sky.

The first thing you will notice is the amount of space available, from the side storage, which can fit a handbag, laptop or magazines, plus the side cabinet for headphones, valuables and even iPads, and also the shoe locker.

There’s an oversized tray that’s ideal for working or dining on and once a meal turns up, you’ll find room to place your computer or iPad to the side and still have access to the full tray table.

The generously-wide 21-inch seat then reclines a full 82-inches when retracted into bed mode and there is a generous 29.5-inch width when the armrest is retracted.

The experience then gets better when duvets, blankets, pillows and cushions help create a comfortable and restful sleeper service, ideal for the night flights to destinations like Sydney, New York and London.

If you’re travelling with a companion, it would be best to book a pair of seats in the centre of the aircraft, which are gently angled towards each other and can slide forward, allowing you to chat or dine together with your friend, colleague or loved one.

Don’t fret if you score one of the centre of the jets if travelling alone though as there is a screen for added privacy.

On the entertainment front, Cathay Pacific’s Business Class seats feature flatscreen touchscreen TVs that are loaded-up with the always impressive StudioCX entertainment system, named best in the world by Skytrax in 2023, which offers a range of Hollywood blockbusters, cinema classics, TV shows, music albums and games.

If you want to work on your laptop or device or play content from them, in the seat you’ll also find a universal Power Supply outlet, a multiport connector and a USB port.

When it comes to sleep, get ready for a relaxing ride thanks to large pillows and duvets and when you wake, grab some luxury Bamford skincare products from the amenity kit you’ll want to keep and you’ll arrive fresh and ready for the day ahead.

Before departure in Hong Kong, head for the Wing or the Pier Business Class lounges – depending on the gate location – and have a glass of wine or a snack (save room for the onboard meals) to round out your travel experience, which, once you include the impeccable Cathay service, is nothing short of exceptional.

cathaypacific.com

FIJI AIRWAYS

Fiji Airways continues to be recognised as one of the world’s best airlines and once you’ve experienced Business Class on a long-haul flight, you quickly know exactly why. James Wilkinson looks at what’s on offer during an A350-900 trip recently.

Since Air Pacific became Fiji Airways, the alwaysenjoyable Nadi-based leisure airline has had a solid offering in Business Class led by wonderful Fijian hospitality, fresh produce and comfortable, spacious seats.

That’s something that was firmly elevated in 2020 when the carrier introduced the Airbus A350-900 to the fleet, thanks to not just an upgrade in the seat product, but a significant jump-up in the quality of meals on offer.

When Fiji Airways introduced the A350, the carrier, now part of the oneworld alliance, firmly became one of the world’s best boutique airlines and it shouldn’t come as any surprise they have won a swag of awards in the process.

“We are immensely proud of our recent accolades and the international recognition our National Airline has received,” Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO, Andre Viljoen, told Wayfarer.

“It's a testament to the dedication, grit and tenacity of our team to continue to innovate and provide the highest standard of offerings to our guests.

“We have made great strides as an airline over the recent years and it shows our strength and ability to bounce back following the pandemic.

“I believe it's because we bring our genuine FIjian Hospitality to every customer perception point,” he said.

The arrival of the A350 saw Fiji Airways introduce a new suite style seat to the carrier’s Business Class offering, in the form of the popular Collins Aerospace ‘Super Diamond’, set out in a 1-2-1 configuration offering all-aisle access for every passenger.

The leather seats come alongside spacious tables, several storage spaces, 17-inch personal entertainment screens, a USB port, in-seat power and a seat pitch of 62 inches.

Fiji Airways’ large Business Class screens are great for catching some excellent inflight entertainment, which now includes programming from Disney Plus and HBO, alongside our own Wayfarer travel TV show that offers guides to several global destinations including Adelaide, Los Angeles, Singapore and more.

A nice wine and meal are ideal accompaniments to the entertainment experience and this is where the carrier has continued to excel since the Airbus A350s arrived in the fleet.

The Nadi-based dining team has created onboard menus that are inspired by the vibrant culture and abundant

natural bounty of the Fijian Islands using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create an onboard experience that’s both nourishing and enjoyable.

They are proud to showcase the diverse influences of the Fiji Islands and the South Pacific through the meals onboard, which continue to get better as the carrier expands in size and route coverage.

In Business Class you can expect dishes like the signature Ika Vakalolo with grilled walu and prawns with mashed sweet potatoes, sauteed spinach, lolo (coonut cream), green oil and roasted cherry tomatoes.

Also expect a western dish onboard, such as Chicken Provencale, alongside a vegetarian option like vegetable linguine, alongside several delicious sweet treats on offer, headlined by Fiji Airways’ new signature dessert, Fijian

Purini, a steamed coconut caramel pudding with vanilla anglaise, salted caramel mousse, roasted pineapple and a coconut twist.

The Business Class drinks experience features two red and two white wines showcasing top Australian, New Zealand and USA drops, plus a Champagne, with G.H Mumm currently served onboard.

Top spirits, liqueurs, Cognac and Port are also available, alongside tea, coffee and non-alcoholic offerings.

Impressively, as most Fiji Airways guests are going on holiday, they offer a Mimosa service with breakfast on overnight flights and ordering is courtesy of a hotel-style room service order card.

When it’s time for sleep, Fiji Airways offers duvets on long-haul and night flights, alongside premium mattress toppers that elevate the experience for a relaxed snooze at 38,000 feet across the Pacific.

For those that need to stay connected, the carrier offers inflight WiFi that’s free for Business Class guests and while you can’t stream live NBA basketball (I wish you could as Fiji Airways sponsor the Los Angeles Clippers), it is perfect for staying connected to family, friends and getting the important work emails knocked out.

LOUNGING AROUND IN NADI

At the carrier’s home base of Nadi International Airport, you’ll find the flagship Fiji Airways Premier Lounge,

which has consistently impressed since it debuted several years ago.

The experience begins with a smile from the staff at the desk, then a live greenery wall which forms the backdrop of the main seating area. On the ceiling above, find constellation lighting which represents the Fijian summer and winter skies.

The lounge features over 200-seats, including a ‘Quiet’ zone, private dining room, booths, group areas, individual seating and a restaurant and dining room. There’s also a media room that features a TV with sports and news, plus magazines, alongside a business centre with printing facilities.

Impressively, for those travelling with little ones, there is a ‘Lailai Land’ kids play centre with a qualified nanny and children’s meals are available upon request.

On the food front, there is a locally-inspired a la carte menu in the private dining room, alongside buffet stations, barista coffee and a full bar with leading Australasian wines on offer.

For those wanting to freshen up between flights, there are showers that feature premium Pure Fiji amenities.

The Fiji Airways Premier Lounge is truly rounded-out by the fantastic Fijian hospitality on offer and overall, it makes for one of the best airport experiences in the South Pacific.

fijiairways.com

QANTAS AIRWAYS

Qantas’ Business Class cabin is one of the leading offerings in the sky, thanks to restaurant-quality meals, fantastic wines, flatbed seats and terrific entertainment and it makes for a brilliant journey on one of the world’s longest routes, Perth to Paris, as James Wilkinson discovered.

Being able to fly nonstop between Europe and Australia has been a long-held dream ever since Qantas flew from London to Sydney direct for the inauguration of the carrier’s first Boeing 747-400 Longreach aircraft in 1989.

For many passengers, the idea of non-stop flights between Europe and Australia is the ultimate feat in aviation and when Qantas launched direct flights from Perth to London in 2018 with the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, that dream became a reality.

Now almost seven years after the London launch and two more routes on offer, Qantas is continuing to operate flights from Perth to London, Paris and Rome and it’s not surprising they are consistently incredibly popular for both business and leisure travellers alike.

While the journeys from Perth to Europe are up there with the longest flights in the world (Perth to London is number four at 14,498 km), they are a very enjoyable experience, particularly when you are up the front of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

If you are travelling from Sydney to Paris, the journey starts in the Harbour City and heads west to Perth on a 4.5-hour flight and then the same aircraft heads onwards for the 14,270km hop to France, which is around 16 hours and 45 minutes.

The flight departs from the international terminal in Sydney and that offers access to the First Class Lounge for Qantas Platinum and oneworld Emerald frequent flyers, ideal for a Neil Perry-curated meal alongside excellent wines before the flight.

The carrier also has an excellent Business Class lounge for passengers in the Business cabin and both are worth stopping by for three hours ahead of the flight to Perth.

On the first leg across Australia, you can expect lunch after take-off, led at present by a delicious red wine braised beef short rib with potato purée, green beans, balsamic glazed eschallots and salsa verde.

Other lunch options include a big bowl of sweet corn soup with roast tomato salsa, hot and fragrant prawns with garlic and egg fried rice, alongside a salad of za'atar chicken breast with smoked eggplant, red cabbage, roast cherry tomatoes and lemon dressing.

A selection of fine Australian cheese is available to

finish, led by a delicious Woombye cow’s milk ash brie, alongside Pyengana cow’s milk matured cheddar and a Berrys Creek cow’s milk blue vein.

For those with the sweet tooth, there is also a selection of gourmet Maggie Beer ice cream available onboard.

When it comes to drinks, Perry and the Qantas sommeliers have a range of alternating Australian wines onboard all Qantas flights in Business Class on the global network – from producers such as Shaw and Smith, Taylors, Vasse Felix and more – alongside French Champagne from Duval-Leroy, Jacquart and Lombard.

The crew can also mix-up a Bloody Mary, Campari and soda, Four Pillars Rare Dry gin and tonic or an Absolut Vodka and ginger beer. Other top spirits and liqueurs onboard include Bundaberg Dark Rum, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey, Chivas Regal 12yo blended whiskey and the Singelton 12yo Dufftown Single Malt whisky alongside H by Hine VSOP Cognac and Baileys Irish Cream.

With your sweets, the crew will also have Australian fortified and dessert wines available and again, these rotate on Qantas flights in Business Class.

When you make it to Perth, Qantas offers an international transit lounge that features spaces to relax, dine and work both inside and on the outdoor terrace. You’ll find a buffet for snacking and dining alongside showers for freshening up along the journey.

After a stop in Perth – which varies between 1.45- and 2.5-hours depending on the direction of travel – you’re off across the Indian Ocean, Middle East and finally Europe before touching down at Paris’ legendary Charles de Gaulle Airport almost 17 hours later.

While the flight time is long, those who fly regularly between Australia and the United States will find it

similar to travelling from Dallas Fort Worth to Sydney or Melbourne and it’s not much longer than the Harbour City to Los Angeles or San Francisco.

The departure time from Perth is 7:35pm, making it ideal for dinner and a movie onboard before a good sleep and waking up over Europe.

Qantas’ Business Class dinner menu from Perth to Paris is fantastic and it makes for a tough choice when it comes to the main dish.

The headline act is firmly the seared Humpty Doo Barramundi with fennel puree, caper and lemon burnt butter and sauce gribiche and it’s one of the best inflight dishes globally at present.

Other top options at present include a big bowl of tomato and fennel soup, spaghetti with lentil and tomato ragu, stir fried chicken with plum sauce and a red wine braised beef short rib with potato puree, green beans, balsamic glazed eschallots and salsa verde.

You’ll find the same selection of cheese on offer, alongside a Pat and Stick’s ice cream sandwich and a dark chocolate mousse with yoghurt ganache, wattleseed strawberries and macadamias.

During the journey to Paris, there are also mid-flight snacks on offer, including a toasted meatball sandwich, a warm tart of roast eggplant and crudites with Kalamata olives, tzatziki and grilled pita bread.

Before landing, breakfast and served and that’s ordered through a hotel room service-style breakfast card and expect fresh fruit, yoghurt, sourdough toast, pastries including croissants and pain au chocolat and toasted muesli with cranberries.

With the warm options, find scrambled eggs with bacon, sauteed spinach and braised beans; an egg white omelette with herbed ricotta, sauteed kale and tomatoes and sunflower seed romesco; and caramelised apple crepes with lemon ricotta, pistachio nuts and salted caramel sauce.

While the food and hospitality onboard is exceptional, you’ll also firmly fly in comfort and style courtesy of the

suite-style Business Class seats the airline debuted on the Airbus A330 over eight years ago.

The design of the innovative seats mean you can recline your seat from take-off through to landing, plus there’s a large table that’s ideal for working and dining, storage space for headphones, laptops and water bottles, plus a power socket and a USB port for charging.

When it comes to rest, the fully-flatbed seats turn into a single bed thanks to the seat topper, 100% cotton duvet and European style pillow.

Qantas also offer pyjamas in Business Class (the carrier was one of the first airlines globally to do this and it’s a shame many others don’t offer it) for long haul flights, alongside amenity kits from Koskela that are loaded up with wellbeing products from Li’Tya, including a hand cream, face cream and lip balm alongside socks, an eye mask, toothbrush and earplugs.

On the entertainment front, Qantas is well known for its excellent selection of new release, vintage and Australian movies and the choice onboard now is excellent.

When it comes to TV, Qantas has deals in place with Paramount Plus, National Geographic and HBO and the choice of shows, including full seasons of new programs like The Agency and Lioness has made the offering all the more better.

There’s also music, games and wellness programming, including meditation and yoga videos.

With such a fantastic onboard experience, a journey that sounds incredibly long turns into one that’s wonderfully easy and despite no WiFi on the Qantas Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners at present, it is genuinely as close to a perfect Business Class flying experience as you’ll find anywhere.

We can’t wait for Qantas’ Project Sunrise, which will connect Sydney directly to London and New York City in 2026 with Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft, marking the final frontier in aviation, but for now what you can expect in Business Class is truly world class.

qantas.com

SRI LANKAN

Right across Asia, many of the large carriers garner a lot of the attention when it comes to travelling in style, yet there are a few hidden gems and one of them is Sri Lankan Airlines, which flies to Colombo from across the globe, including London and Sydney, as James Wilkinson discovers.

Colombo-based Sri Lankan has been a rising star for years when it comes to flying to Asia, South Asia and beyond and for those who like to travel in style, the carrier has a formidable Business Class offering that includes excellent cuisine, flatbed seats and top-notch entertainment.

Sri Lankan’s Business Class is headlined by the comfortable and spacious ‘Cirrus’ seats on offer, which are laid-out in a 1-2-1 configuration and are a similar style to what you’ll

find on fellow oneworld carriers American Airlines and Cathay Pacific.

The Business Class cabin on the A330-300 features 28 lie-flat seats and they have a pitch of 77-79 inches and a width of 21 inches.

You’ll find a number of storage spaces around the seats, which all have direct aisle access, plus charging ports and inflight entertainment is available on 15.4-inch screens that feature 50 TV channels, 120 movies from Hollywood and Bollywood, an extensive library of audio albums, radio channels and games.

The cabin also has relaxing mood lighting and on selected aircraft, night sky displays adding to the sleeping experience, alongside an Aigner amenity kit which includes essential cosmetics and toiletry items.

When it comes to dining onboard, Sri Lankan offers a delectable choice of meals, which can be pre-ordered on flights from Colombo.

Highlights include the local Sri Lankan dishes, including a Kandyanstyle five spice chicken curry with steamed basmati rice, carrot and leek curry, Malay pickle and fish cutlet; a Sri Lankan fish curry accompanied by cashew and pea curry, brinjal pahi and vegetable fried rice; and Lamb biryani with mirchi baingan ka salan and mint chutney, garnished with nuts and raisins.

You’ll also find an excellent selection of dishes for breakfast, including a Traditional Sri Lankan one that features Kiribath or Milk Rice, a rice dish cooked using coconut milk, paired with Fish ambul thial Sri Lankan style and ‘Seeni Sambal’, an onion preparation simmered in tamarind, sugar and spices.

Another excellent option is a savoury omelette topped with creamed leek and corn, accompanied

LOUNGING AROUND IN COLOMBO

Sri Lankan’s Business Class starts at the airport, where travellers will find priority check-in at the silk route and complimentary access to the Serendib Lounge of Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo.

The Serendib Lounge, available for the carrier’s valued premier customers, is located on the first floor

of the departure hall at Bandaranaike International Airport and it overlooks the aircraft gates at the terminal.

With a seating capacity for 80 people and dining capacity for 20, the lounge features places to relax, work and dine and it features a buffet, wines, beers, spirits, coffee and tea.

Overall, the carrier offers a delightful experience for business travellers and is a fantastic alternative when heading to key destinations in Asia, South Asia and globally.

srilankan.com

with rösti potato, creamed spinach in tomato cup, pan seared chicken, cheese and onion sausage.

SINGAPORE AIRLINES

From the days when Singapore Airlines flew the Big Top Boeing 747-300 in the 1980s to the Airbus A380, Boeing 777, Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 now, the carrier has had an exceptional offering in Business Class that continues to evolve and improve as time goes by. James Wilkinson reports.

Singapore Airlines has always been known for its famous ‘Singapore Girl’ hospitality onboard, no matter which cabin you fly, and while the carrier has excellent Suites, First and Premium Economy offerings, the Business Class cabin is the perfect way to fly this airline.

The experience starts with the carrier’s lounges and the flagship is the SilverKris Lounge inside Terminal 3 at Singapore’s Changi Airport.

Singapore Airlines recently spent SG$50 million redesigning, upgrading and expanding the SilverKris Lounge precinct, which includes the Private Room, the First Class section of the SilverKris Lounge, the Business Class section of the SilverKris Lounge and the KrisFlyer Gold Lounge.

These lounges can collectively accommodate around 1,150 customers within their 6,100 square-metres, translating to 30% more seats and space than the former offerings.

If you are flying in Business Class, you’ll have access to the Business Class section of the SilverKris Lounge, which offers four distinct seating sections.

These include a quiet rest area to sleep before the flight, a main dining hall with an extensive self-service buffet, a living room area with sofa seats and productivity pods, as well as an open concept courtyard-style area that offers light bites for the traveller on-the-go.

“These choices give our customers the flexibility to work, dine, or rest in comfort, whether they are travelling alone or with companions and loved ones,” the carrier says.

There’s also a full-service bar, with a barista in the morning and bartender service in the evening, complete with Singapore Slings, classic cocktails, a fantastic selection of wines and non-alcoholic options, all with a view of aircraft taking off and landing.

While the lounges are a great way to begin the journey, the hospitality firmly elevates once you board and the carrier’s latest long-haul Business Class seats can be found on the Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

These new Business Class seats –handcrafted from Scottish leather and diamond-stitched –offer two new seating positions, dubbed the ‘Lazy Z’, a cradling position that ensures your weight is centered and balanced when you’re sitting down and the ‘Sundeck’, a lounging position that extends the base and foot of your seat so you can stretch and rest your legs on the ottoman.

The 30-inch wide seat then transforms into a fully flat bed at 76-inches long, with a cushioned headboard for sleeping comfort and the experience is completed with linen, a duvet and pillows.

It’s a unique design for Singapore Airlines and it offers space aplenty for working, dining and resting, something ideal on many of the carrier’s long-haul and ultra-longhaul flights across the globe.

The seats are also very practical and feature a side console, that was specially designed to sit above the armrest and it lets you stow your laptop and reading materials, while you are in both seat and bed mode.

The seats also feature several ports – eXport, HDMI and USB – alongside

a power outlet for charging laptops and other devices with great speed.

Singapore Airlines also offers WiFi onboard the Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A350-900 aircraft and it is free for Business Class guests and also KrisFlyer members in any cabin on the aircraft.

For those who want to switch off and relax with a TV show or a movie, the KrisWorld inflight entertainment system is one of the best in the sky and you’ll find 1,800 options, including movies, television programmes, music, games and apps, accessed on a video touchscreen handset and viewed on 18-inch HD enabled LCD screens with noisecancelling headphones.

When it comes to dining, here is where Singapore Airlines truly stands out, thanks to the ‘Book the Cook’ offering.

You can reserve your main course up to 24 hours before you fly, including creations by well-known global chefs from the airline’s International Culinary Panel.

You will dine in a restaurant setting onboard with full table service and wines to match the food and altitude.

The range of meals on offer is exceptional and the dish to order is firmly the delicious Lobster Thermidor, the classic French dish, where the lobster meat is cooked in a rich cream sauce, enhanced with Cognac and Dijon mustard. With the

addition of button mushrooms and herbs, the Lobster is returned to the shell, topped off with grated cheddar cheese, and finished off to create an oven-browned cheese crust.

Other top orders include Charcoal grilled Australian black Angus beef tenderloin steak, served with creamy polenta, red wine sauce with seasonal vegetables; Bak Chor Mee dry style thin noodles with seasoned vinegar sauce, garnished with sliced and minced pork, pork ball, braised mushroom, fried pork lard and dried sole, served with chilli sauce and additional black vinegar on the side; and the famed Malay Nasi Lemak, being fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, accompanied by spicy sambal prawns, fried chicken, fried anchovies with peanuts, an omelette wedge and otah (grilled fish cakes).

Impressively, there are over 40 dishes to choose from in Business Class and the offering also includes wellness cuisine specially created by Como Shambhala for Singapore Airlines, highlighted by spiced buckwheat and pumpkin pancakes, aromatic barramundi, aromatic yellow fish curry and spiced braised chicken.

No matter your choice of main, the meal service starts with the carrier’s famed Singapore satay sticks and they are that good you’ll be ordering a second round without a doubt.

Being able to choose from so many dishes is a wonderful x-factor when flying the carrier and it’s something we wish more airlines around the world would offer – and would you believe, it is also now available for guests in the carrier’s fantastic Premium Economy cabin, which we fly several times a year to events.

Singapore Airlines also have amenity kits available on demand, alongside slippers for added comfort.

The carrier’s Business Class is firmly one of the best in the sky and if you aren’t flying on the new seats on the Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A350-900 aircraft, you’ll still find a great seat product onboard the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner.

singaporeair.com

Antler’s stylish new Heritage Collection

Antler has released the Heritage Collection – a modern evolution of 110 years of British luggage design. Two years in the making, the collection redefines premium suitcase design, marrying archival details with modern engineering.

The Heritage Stripe Cabin and made-to-order Heritage Stripe Trunk blend archival craftsmanship with contemporary innovation. Featuring lightweight polycarbonate, aluminium frames, reinforced corners, and Antler’s first replaceable wheels, each piece is built for lasting performance.

Available in Sandstone and Basalt, the collection captures timeless travel elegance with thoughtful functionality for the modern voyager. antler.co.uk

Beats launches new charging cable range

Beats has released its first-ever collection of reinforced charging cables in an assortment of lengths and colours. Beats Cables are available in four electric colours—Bolt Black, Surge Stone, Nitro Navy, and Rapid Red—at $28.95 (AUD) for a single cable and $54.95 (AUD) for a pack of two. They are made with a tangle-free woven design for increased durability and to prevent fraying.

The Beats Cables are also available in two convenient lengths – 1.5 meters and 20 centimeters (8 inches) – for both stationary and portable use and are offered in a variety of configurations, including USB-C to USB-C, USB-A to USB-C, and USB-C to Lightning. When used with compatible hardware, USB-C to USB-C also supports fast charging up to 60 watts and can transfer data at USB 2.0 rates. beatsbydre.com

Belkin launches all-new gaming portfolio

Belkin has launched into the gaming accessories space with the launch of a new line-up designed for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2.

“Gaming is a natural extension of the Belkin brand. With our legacy of creating products that empower people to ‘be ready for today’, we’re excited to bring Belkin’s trusted accessories into the world of gaming,” said Belkin CEO, Steve Malony.

The new range includes elevated accessories designed to enhance the gaming experience, featuring on-the-go charging solutions, audio gear, robust screen protection, and new travel cases built for effortless portability and protection. belkin.com.au

Pixel’s headline act

It’s been quite the journey for Google when it comes to smartphones and as cliché as it sounds, the company’s devices continue to get better with every release, including the latest headline act, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

Surely improving with every release is what you’d expect from any leading global tech firm, but when it comes to phones, Google has come a hell of a long way in a short period of time compared to its competitors and frenemies.

From the first Pixel phone to the Nest, Buds, Watch, Tablet and now the Fold, the journey truly is remarkable given how far the quality, practicality and style has come in that time.

You always wonder if Google will continue to out-do itself and that’s exactly what has happened – now not surprisingly – yet again with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold which has been every minute of the wait.

While some other manufacturers have had fold phones in the market

for some time, Google waited until it was ready and what the Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers is everything you’d want in a fold phone.

First, you can expect fantastic styling and design like what’s found on the Pixel 9 Pro XL – which is undoubtedly Google’s best looking and feeling device to date – alongside the company’s biggest ever display on a phone which transforms into thin foldable device.

“Pixel 9 Pro Fold combines the best of Google hardware and software with a sleek and sophisticated design, an advanced camera system, multiple screens to get more done, and our most powerful Tensor G4 processor to fuel the Pixel features you know and love,” said Google Australia and New Zealand Director, Device and Services Business, Rory Charlston.

He’s right because the Pixel 9 Pro Fold sure is impressive when it comes to performance thanks to the Tensor G4 processor.

When you put the Pixel 9 Pro Fold next to the Pixel 9 Pro XL, you’ll find the Fold is barely thicker than the XL, yet inside you’ll find a huge 8-inch display, which is at its best when watching TV on steaming apps.

It feels like you have a mini tablet on your hands yet is foldable and versatile. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a fluid-friction hinge that easily opens fully flat with a satisfying snap so you can enjoy the big, bright Super Actua Flex display, which is almost the clearest I’ve ever seen on a phone before.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold also features scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and boasts an IPX8

rating for water resistance of up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes of submersion, adding to the peace of mind with such a large device when unfolded.

“Whether you’re at home or on the go, feel like you’re part of the action with the 8-inch Super Actua Flex inner display,” Charlston said.

“The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the perfect device for hands-free viewing. Set it on a surface in tabletop mode for an easy, convenient way to watch your favourites.

“Or kick back, relax and play a video game on the large screen. And you can multitask without missing a thing,” he said.

With Split Screen, you can stream on one side and do something else on the other as the Pixel 9 Pro Fold lets you enjoy big-screen entertainment and effortless multitasking from anywhere.

“The innovative foldable form factor of Pixel 9 Pro Fold works in tandem with on-device AI to help you do more while saving time,” Charlston said.

“You can easily Split Screen paired apps to multitask with ease, drag and drop photos, and use Dual Screen with Google Meet, so the people on your call can see your face and what you’re seeing.”

Powered by Google’s new Tensor G4 chip, Pixel 9 Pro Fold delivers improved performance and increased efficiency across a range of experiences for everyday use.

“Your favourite time-saving Google AI features on Pixel are coming to Pixel 9 Pro Fold too, including Pixel Screenshots, Pixel Studio, Circle to Search, and Gemini, plus some world-class photography features including Magic Editor, Best Take, Video Boost, Add Me, and Pro Controls,” he said.

What is gained in the brilliant large screen for viewing is certainly not lost when it comes to the performance of the camera too.

As found on the entire Pixel 9 phone range, Pixel 9 Pro Fold harnesses the power of Google hardware and AI capabilities with an ultra-thin advanced triple rear camera system.

“We’ve also taken Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s cameras to the next level with an upgrade to the ultrawide camera — which now supports Macro Focus — and both front cameras, which now support Face Unlock whether folded or unfolded,” Charlston said.

“With a flexible design and an ultra-thin advanced triple rear camera system with AI built in, it’s easy to snap brilliant selfies, take incredible group pics and add custom edits.

“The Pixel 9 Pro Fold camera has incredible wide, ultrawide and telephoto lenses with 5x optical zoom and up to 20x Super Res Zoom. So that you can get super sharp closeups from far away.

“Use Macro Focus to reveal vivid colour and striking contrast in photos and videos of even the smallest subjects. With Pro controls, you can unlock advanced camera settings, including manual focus, for more creative control over your camera.

“The Pixel 9 Pro Fold also has cutting-edge video processing. With Night Sight Video, you can take amazing videos from dusk ’til dawn. After you’ve recorded a video at night or in low light, Google’s advanced AI applies noise reduction to boost video quality. So that you capture rich detail and colour, at night or in low light.

“In addition to existing features like Dual Screen Preview, Tabletop Mode and Rear Camera Selfie, we’re bringing a new camera feature to Pixel 9 Pro Fold that’s perfect for parents: Made You Look.

“It helps get your little one to smile for a photo by displaying an animation on the outer screen to grab their attention while snapping a picture,” he said.

Gaming is also a standout on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the company has partnered with several game developers to offer optimised experiences in games like Asphalt Unite and Disney Speedstorm, which support tabletop mode on the large inner screen.

From the style to the hardware, software and everyday practicality, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a true standout for Google and the best device the company has ever released. Once you have your hands on it, you’ll quickly see why.

Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold is now available on the Google store and at leading retailers globally.

store.google.com

Inside line

The latest motoring news and accessories from premium brands.

Swedish electricity

Volvo’s latest fully electric SUV, the EX-90, is continuing to take the world by storm thanks to its high-quality finishings, amazing driveability and durability.

James Wilkinson reports.

Volvo Cars’ Chief Executive Officer, Jim Rowan, says the company remains committed to be a fully electric car business as the latest offering, the EX-90, continues to receive worldwide acclaim as the best SUV EV ever built.

Speaking after the launch of the all-new, all-electric and all-exciting EX90 SUV in California recently, Rowan expects the car to be a game changer for the company and one that will drive significant growth.

“I can confidently say that the EX90 is the best car we have ever made,” he said. “After driving it for 950 kilometres through three states (from the production plant in Charleston, South Carolina to California) in the US in various driving conditions and road surfaces, I only have positive memories.

“The charging, the handling, the ride comfort, the silence of the cabin and the epic sound system, the reliability, the tech and the feel of the UI – I’ve never driven a Volvo car like it.

“The EX90 is the start of a new era for Volvo Cars and it begins now.”

With five fully electric cars (EVs) already on the market and another five models in development, full electrification remains a key pillar of Volvo Cars’ product strategy and what Rowan expects the company to grow on the back of.

Rowan said it is Volvo’s long-term aim to become a fully electric car company and it also aims to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.

“We are resolute in our belief that our future is electric,” he said. “An electric car provides a superior driving experience and increases possibilities for using advanced technologies that improve the overall customer experience.

“However, it is clear that the transition to electrification will not be linear, and customers and markets are moving at different speeds of adoption.

“We are pragmatic and flexible, while retaining an industryleading position on electrification and sustainability.”

Rowan said while Volvo Cars will retain its position as an industry leader in electrification, it has now decided to adjust its electrification ambitions due to changing market conditions and customer demands.

He said going forward, Volvo Cars aims for 90 to 100 per cent of its global sales volume by 2030 to consist of electrified cars, meaning a mix of both fully electric and plug-in hybrid models – in essence, all cars with a cord.

The remaining 0-10 per cent will allow for a limited number of mild hybrid models to be sold, if needed. This replaces the company’s previous ambition for its line-up to be fully electric by 2030.

By 2025, it expects the percentage of electrified products to come in between 50 and 60 per cent. Well before the end of this decade Volvo Cars will have a complete line-up of fully electric cars available.

He said that will allow Volvo Cars to make the move to full electrification as and when the market conditions are suitable.

Volvo Cars’ share of fully electric cars stood at 26 per cent during the second quarter of 2024, the highest share among all its premium peers. Its electrified share – EVs and plug-in hybrids – accounted for 48 per cent.

Rowan said Volvo Cars remains committed to its long-term ambition of full electrification, and the company’s long-term investment plan and product strategy remains geared towards fully electric cars.

He said the adjustment to its ambitions is not expected to have any material impact on the company’s capital expenditure plans.

Since the company laid out its ambition to go fully electric, it has launched five fully electric models: the EX40, the EC40, the EX30, the EM90 and the EX90.

The EX30 is currently ranked as the third best-selling EV in Europe, according to the latest available industry data, while the EX90 is firmly the hottest SUV in the global market.

At the same time, according to Volvo, there has been a slower than expected rollout of charging infrastructure, withdrawal of government incentives in some markets and additional uncertainties created by recent tariffs on EVs in various markets.

“With this in mind, Volvo Cars continues to see the need for stronger and more stable government

policies to support the transition to electrification,” according to Volvo.

As a result of its adjusted ambitions on electrification, the company is also updating its ambitions on CO2 reduction, which remain leading for the automotive industry.

By 2030, the company aims to have reduced CO2 emissions per car by 65-75 per cent compared to a 2018 baseline, an adjustment of the previous 75 per cent reduction ambition.

For 2025, the company aims for a 30-35 per cent reduction versus a 2018 baseline, instead of the previous aim of a 40 per cent reduction.

Rowan said Volvo Cars plans to make further progress, including by working with its suppliers to continue to reduce CO2 emissions from materials across the company’s value chain.

During the first half of the year CO2 emissions per car were 25 per cent lower compared with its 2018 benchmark.

He said with the small EX30 SUV continuing to perform strongly and the first customers of the fully electric Volvo EX90 flagship receiving their

cars during this month (September), the excitement about the opportunities for Volvo Cars’ fully electric product range is stronger than ever.

According to the company, Volvo Cars has also seen the popularity of its plug-in hybrids grow, with the XC60 the best-selling plug-in hybrid model in Europe this year, according to industry data.

“Plug-in hybrids provide customers with an opportunity to experience electric driving if they are not yet ready or able to switch to fully electric cars,” according to Volvo.

Many of the company’s plug-in hybrid customers already travel widely on zero tailpipe emissions, Volvo says.

Volvo Cars’ most recent data shows that around half of the kilometres covered by the latest plug-in hybrid Volvo cars are driven on pure electric power.

As such, the company says it will continue to upgrade its plug-in hybrids, to further increase electric usage and range, and improve the customer experience.

volvocars.com

One perfect stay

The Berkeley,London

Nestled between leafy Belgravia and bustling Knightsbridge, The Berkeley, part of Maybourne Hotel Group, is filled with contemporary chic and innovative luxury. With stunning rooms and suites, a rooftop pool with views over Hyde Park, as well as cocktails in the Bryan O’Sullivan-designed The Berkeley Bar and Terrace, The Berkeley provides the ultimate urban retreat in the heart of London. Guests can also step up to the Chef’s Counter of world-renowned pastry chef Cédric Grolet – his first home outside Paris – selling his signature colourful patisserie creations, and dine at La Môme London, from the team behind legendary restaurant in Cannes. Hop on Cathay Pacific (cathaypacific.com) to get you to London in style before a luxurious stay at this brilliant hotel.

the-berkeley.co.uk