Travel Envy: where our members spend their holidays
Get some inspiration on where to go throughout the year, and dream of this little lot on those dreary, drizzly days.
Get some inspiration on where to go throughout the year, and dream of this little lot on those dreary, drizzly days.
Cheval Blanc Randheli
Where: Cheval Blanc Randehli, Maldives
When: December
Why: This client generally spends the summer in Cap D’Antibes and likes chic contemporary hotels, so we had to find them a similarly stylish pad in the Maldives. Cue Cheval Blanc Randehli, which has slick contemporary water villas, seamless service, and a A-list following.
Sun Rocks
Where: Sun Rocks, Santorini
When: July
Why: Santorini was the dream honeymoon destination for this client, who couldn’t spare a lot of time away from work and therefore wanted somewhere that was quick to get to, yet beautiful, romantic and luxurious. The Sun Rocks hotel combines that quintessential Santorini feel, with cool contemporary suites and mesmerising views of the Caldera. It’s also great value, so you can really indulge in all the amazing restaurants.
Beverly Hills
Where: The Beverly Hills Hotel, Hollywood
When: September
Why: Some newly engaged clients fell in love with the old-school glamour of The Beverly Hills Hotel for their honeymoon, and if it was good enough for Elizabeth Taylor (who spent six of her eight honeymoons there!) we knew it would be good enough for them. Nicknamed ‘The Pink Palace’ The Bev is an institution in Hollywood: a home away from home for the glitterati, and a place where every guest is made to feel a million dollars.
Gaya Island Resort
Where: Gaya Island Resort, Malaysian Borneo
When: July
Why: For a nature-loving client who wanted an unspoilt island hideaway, it had to be Gaya Island Resort in Malaysian Borneo. Accessed only by boat, and with Borneo’s unique trio of pristine coral reefs, beaches and rainforest, it’s a real natural sanctuary. You get a totally authentic experience here, from the friendly Malaysian staff to the traditionally-styled villas which look out towards Mount Kinabalu.
Sandy Lane
Where: Sandy Lane, Barbados.
When: Christmas
Why: Our client wanted a classic Caribbean escape for Christmas, so we recommended the stylish stalwart, Sandy Lane. It has a beautiful stretch of white sand beach on Barbados’ Platinum Coast, and with many an A-List guest it’s the place to see and be seen. Combined with the island’s cosmopolitan foodie scene, Sandy Lane is the perfect reward for the end of the year.
South beach sunsets
Where: Grand Beach Hotel Surfside, Miami.
When: March
Why: The Grand Beach Hotel was the perfect option for our client who wanted something luxurious yet affordable in Miami. Newly opened in 2013, the hotel is on Miami Beach and has that fresh youthful feel our client was after. It also has some of the biggest suites in the city, and a fab rooftop pool where you can sip a G&T and watch those legendary sunsets.
Rayavadee
Where: Rayavadee, Krabi.
When: April.
Why: Thailand is the obvious go-to when you want to chill on the beach, but our client wanted somewhere really special. We recommended Rayavadee in Krabi for its spectacular location: surrounded by the towering limestone pinnacles of the Phra Nang peninsula, on the famous Railay Beach. Our client couldn’t wait to chill on the pavilions which are nestled amongst the coconut groves, and to eat dinner in the amazing cave restaurant.
Chem Chem Lodge
Where: Chem Chem Lodge, Tanzania.
When: December.
Why: A client wanted a family safari that struck the right balance between relaxation and adventure. Chem Chem Lodge immediately sprang to mind as it specialises in “slow safaris” and is ideal for families. The wildlife aspect is definitely covered here as Chem Chem looks right out over the game-teeming Lake Manyara, but you can also relax by the pool with a sundowner, and enjoy a level of fine cuisine you wouldn’t expect from a safari lodge.
