Flash forward and in the blink of an eye, 2021 is within reach. Now more than ever, open spaces and expansive destinations where we can escape the crowds and get away from it all rank high on the list, as we start making plans for our future trips. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, land right on white sandy beaches with open coastlines, nestle in the heart of a safari, or dream about all that you can do under a mesmerising star-studded night sky, we’d like to propose the following options for your consideration. Paradise isn’t so far away after all.
One&Only Desaru Coast
Located on the south-eastern shoreline of Malaysia, One&Only Desaru Coast is the ultimate ultra-luxury tropical retreat. The first One&Only resort in Asia is nestled in 128 acres of unspoilt wild flora, lush rainforests and a secluded coastline of pristine golden sands. Just a two-hour drive from Singapore, the resort has an intimate collection of just 42 Junior Suites, two expansive two-bedroom Grand Suites and an exclusive four- bedroom Villa One. Each self-contained suite is perfectly framed by nature, offering exceptional levels of privacy, either facing the ocean or wrapped by rainforests.
More information on the resort as well as its extensive array of unique offerings, from vibrant dining experiences to transformational wellness experiences available here. High-res images available here, credited to One&Only Desaru Coast.
andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Explore the ultimate desert escape by staying at the andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in Namibia, which re-opened after a refurbishment in November 2019. Set amidst an ocean of dunes, rocky outcrops and gravel plains, the sheer tranquillity and extraordinary clarity of light make this area one of Africa’s most compelling landscapes, inviting you to reconnect with yourself and nature.
Nestled deep in the heart of Namibia’s ancient Namib Desert, the lodge offers travellers several experiences during their stay to help understand and immerse themselves in the unique environment that surrounds them. Desert drives that continue after nightfall reveal an array of unusual desert-adapted fauna and flora that thrives in the area while marvelling in the stark desert scenery. The exploration of the Namib Desert’s incredibly clear night skies can continue back at the lodge, which features a state-of-the-art observatory and telescope. With almost no impact from artificial light and on the best dark skies in the world, guests can discover the constellations of the southern sky under the guidance of a resident astronomer. Adventurous guests can also take the time to explore the desert trails on their own either by hiking or ebikes.
Sustainability and uncompromised luxury go hand in hand at Sossusvlei. Ten beautifully appointed stone and glass suites are spread out along the curve of the escarpment, open onto ever-changing outlooks. Each spacious air-conditioned suite offers a secluded, shaded veranda complete with private plunge pool, a living room with a fireplace, a large retractable skylight above the bed, and an ensuite bathroom with a glass-encased rain shower offering 180º desert views.
Suite rates start at NAD 9,265 per person sharing. More information and high-res images available here.
Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel
No trip to Monaco is complete without visiting Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel. This glamorous, Green Globe certified seaside hotel, designed by architect India Mahdavi, is an ode to the Mediterranean with its private beach, Olympic-sized pool and spa. This ideal setting with its private beach and chic striped canvas beach cabins, the Monte-Carlo Beach Club, is the perfect spot to enjoy the French Riviera in complete privacy, away from the hustle and bustle.
Sustainability is at the core of Monte- Carlo Beach’s ethos, now more than ever, with the creation of a reef dyke and the classification of the Pointe de la Vigie as a bird protection refuge. Monte-Carlo Beach is back with its long-standing favourites for another season of tranquility and self-care, in particular the Tigre Monte-Carlo. Back for an inspiring and reinvigorating 2nd season, guests can attend Pilates and yoga classes between the sea and the pine forest (ashthanga, hatha, vinyasa, kundalini), massages and signature treatments such as the Massage du Tigre, a powerful and beneficial treatment to restore balance and energy and to restore the mind and body in the present moment, with the exclusive line of 100% organic cosmetic products by TATA HARPER. High-res images available here.
Cheval Blanc Randheli (open to international guests since 15 August)
Cheval Blanc Randheli, situated in the impossibly tranquil Noonu Atoll, is part of LVMH Hotel Group. The ultimate location for exclusivity and renewal, Cheval Blanc Randheli is a spacious hideaway made-up of islands, each offering a unique and dedicated experience.
Jean Michel Gathy is the guiding vision behind the design of Cheval Blanc Randheli, which is created in synergy with the natural surroundings. 45 loft villas all feature a private 12.5m infinity pool, dining pergola, a private beach and spacious overwater decking.
Elegant, refined and designed for stylish barefoot living, great attention has been given to the discretion of guests, ensuring a feeling of private space. This is reflected in the sophisticated design of each villa where lofty cathedral-style ceilings are framed by seven-metre-high handcrafted doors that create a strong sense of openness or when closed, an intimate atmosphere.
Cheval Blanc Randheli has curated tailor-made activities and unforgettable experiences including; marine biology conservation, one of the world’s only dedicated spa islands with bespoke Guerlain rituals, mediation, yoga and mindfulness, and the world’s most secluded tennis island – home to two lagoon-front US Open and Paris Masters standard courts.
High-res images are available here, to be credited to Cheval Blanc Randheli.
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok (newly opened, accepting reservations from December 2020)
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Set along 200 metres of uncluttered riverfront, the new Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River is a work of art conceived by designer Jean-Michel Gathy. Described by Gathy as “Sometimes dramatic. Sometimes intimate. But always charismatic”, high ceilings and glass walls are fundamental to the design of the new hotel, while pools and flowing water echo the constant movement of the Chao Phraya River. A series of cascading buildings, courtyards, terraces and water features spread across the 9 acres along Charoenkrung Road. A dedicated Art Space within the hotel’s premises will showcase contemporary Thai artists, celebrating the country’s legendary craftsmanship and artistry.
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River will offer 299 guest rooms, including suites with garden terraces and an extraordinary, two-storey Presidential Suite; an urban spa with a focus on mind, body and soul; two infinity pools overlooking the river; thoughtful amenities for families including a fully-supervised complimentary kids club; a private boat dock; extensive event spaces highlighted by a waterfront ballroom and terrace; and world class culinary offerings. The hotel is now accepting reservations from December 2020. More information and images here.
TURN UP THE ANTE WITH THESE ULTRA LUXE OPTIONS
andBeyond Benguerra Island, Mozambique
andBeyond Benguerra Island is an exquisite piece of Indian Ocean paradise situated off the coast of Mozambique. In the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, the island retreat is set on a protected lagoon. Guests can hideaway a variety of luxurious thatched accommodation complete with private wooden deck and pools. Guests can enjoy castaway picnics on secluded untouched islands, sunset cruises, swimming with horses as they ride bareback into the warm ocean or even spot a rare Dugong as Benguerra is home to one of the last remaining viable population. Guests are bound to see more wildlife than people!
The lodge has a range of luxurious thatched accommodation. For families or small groups, the exclusive-use Casa Familia is an ideal option with three ensuite bedrooms, a large deck area and private pool overlooking the beach. Set amidst lush island forest, there are two cosy cabanas, ideal for couples or honeymooners, and the slightly larger 10 casinhas. Cabanas and casinhas all offer private timber decks, rim-flow pools, sun loungers and private salas with irresistible hanging daybeds.
Rates for the Casinhas start from US$940 per person per night based on two sharing on an all-inclusive basis. Alternatively, the island is yours at a price tag of US$30k per night buy out. High-res images here.
andBeyond Ngala Treehouse Lodge
With some of the most breathtaking national parks, lush forests, dramatic mountains, and amazing wildlife, South Africa has some spectacular locations for your next escape. Added to the mix is the newly launched andBeyond Ngala Treehouse Lodge – a remote, overnight retreat that offers guests a luxurious private sanctuary and the ultimate in sleep-under-the-stars experience.
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With a design inspired by the natural landscape, Ngala Treehouse offers a majestic view over the pristine natural terrain guests will be dreaming of for years to come. Rather than staying in a standard hotel room, the four-level treehouse features two sleep areas; the third level is covered and weatherproofed, while an elevated sleep-out platform set beneath a retractable awning invites you to stargaze on the rooftop.
Guests can choose to arrive at the Treehouse in time to toast the sunset with cocktails after their late afternoon game drive. Then, enjoy a tapas-style picnic dinner – set up in the safety of an enclosed boma beneath the stars.
Surrounded by home comforts, a stocked bar and a selection of midnight and breakfast snacks, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in a lodge. Completely off the grid, this treehouse promises luxury and comfort while offering the most exclusive wilderness experience.
Not designed for long-term stays, the andBeyond Ngala Treehouse Lodge is an innovative overnight wilderness experience that complements your stay at one of the andBeyond Ngala Private Game Reserve’s two permanent lodges, andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp or andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge.
andBeyond Ngala Treehouse Lodge opened in February 2020 and rates start from ZAR 8,500 per night per person sharing. High-res images available here.
Villa La Vigie – Monte-Carlo
Located on the cape of the Monte-Carlo Beach, and nestled amid a tree-filled park, Villa La Vigie offers unparalleled views of the Mediterranean, the Principality and the bay of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. Overlooking the coastline, La Vigie stands proudly above the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel. A strategic location that earned the name “La Vigie” – which translates to The Look-Out in English.
Acquired by the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) in 1952, “La Vigie” was rented year-round to the legendary Karl Lagerfeld. In return for a rather modest rental price, Lagerfeld undertook extensive restoration work in the villa, ensuring that its exotic garden and panoramic terrace overlooking the sea retained their neoclassical charm. This prestigious villa was where he lived regularly between 1986 and 2000.
The artistic director of Chanel also used the site to display his art collections, marked by the classicism so adored by this baroque and offbeat creative. He used this setting as a backdrop for his work as a photographer, his second passion after haute couture. Notably, the members of the Casiraghi family were photographed here several times.
Spread over three levels, and offering 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 dressing rooms, high-end appliances and discreet and elegant décor, it also boasts a superb 237-square-metre terrace. Marble, columns, fireplaces, parquet flooring and high ceilings create a modern and sophisticated ambiance.
The Villa La Vigie can be rented on a weekly or monthly basis. The villa has its own private road and is surrounded by a tree-covered park so you can arrive by helicopter and be whisked off in a luxury car transfer and arrive at the villa in minutes!
Visit www.montecarlosbm.com for further information. High-res images available here.
Cheval Blanc Randheli Private Island Villa
For the ultimate in privacy, Cheval Blanc Randheli Private Island Villa, which spans across 1-ha, is only accessible from a private berth and jetty. This four-bedroom villa with over 1,000 sqm of space is the epitome of lush, modern island living with exceptional indoor and outdoor spaces, a private spa, a dedicated team of Ambassadeurs and a vibrant array of tailored services and amenities. In the main house, three light-filled successive reception rooms align a 25-metre-long swimming pool. A fleet of traditional dhoni and expedition boats are available for private excursions throughout the atoll.
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