Architecture aficionados, design buffs and fastidious foodies – the creative class demand more when they travel. From curated curios to Michelinstarred restaurants, boundary-breaking architecture to high-tech mod-cons, from sensational renovations to state of-the-art spas, hotels are transforming into super sophisticated sanctuaries and redefining what it means to ‘travel in style.’
Bajan Bliss
The welcome of a cold lavender scented towel and refreshing drink of your choice upon arrival sets the tone for the truly inimitable Bajan hospitality at The Sandpiper. Within walking distance of lively Holetown, this treasure was built and is still owned by the O’Hara family who have raised the luxury offering at this boutique beachside retreat – in 2015 the Beach House was given an impressive facelift.
Thoroughly indulgent, contemporary in style with neutral palettes or fresh ocean-inspired tones, Beach House Suites have expansive ocean front sun-decks, opulent bathrooms, and ‘media centres’ in the living room. Couples will love the Tree Top Suite Curlew that has all the Beach Suite amenities in addition to a covered balcony with private bar and plunge pool. A second sleek lap pool with sculptural water feature framed by partially sunken sun loungers completes the updated offering.
The same high culinary standards remain, overseen by Executive Chef Christophe Poupardin – enjoy a delectable fusion of European, Asian and Caribbean cuisine at the open-air restaurant fringed by koi-filled ponds. Daytime strolls to the inviting Harold’s Beach Bar are a must to sample a tropical “Harold’s Smile” made by the man himself.
Elegantly Understated Exclusivity
For those seeking a boutique bolthole away from the Caribbean’s busier resorts, Pink Sands Club Canouan is a smart choice. Unashamedly known as the place “where billionaires go to escape the millionaires”, luxury here is surprisingly understated.
The 26 spacious suites and eight patio villas offer a private island-like experience – there are only a handful of hotels here. The epitome of beach chic, classic Caribbean charm is present in cream fabrics, dark woods and signature Grenadian pink accents, whilst pioneering technology enhances the guest experience – in-room amenities, gourmet services and spa treatments are all controlled by a tablet. Prefer your treatments in the spa? You may well do here – nestled on a hillside, indulgent treatments at The Spa all come with breathtaking ocean views.
Golf aficionados will love the Jim Fazio-designed 18-hole course – a design feat in itself – rising dramatically from sea level to the rim of an extinct volcano with sensational views.
For effortless exploring, take your very own golf cart around the 1,200-acre estate in search of wild tortoise, from which the island gets its name.
Back at the resort, indulge in some of the most exquisite culinary experiences in the Caribbean – highlights include pan-Asian cuisine at Romeo and private fine dining overlooking the lagoon at Juliet.
Tin-mining Triumph
A quirky alternative to Phuket’s usual beachside offering, The Slate combines the area’s raw natural beauty with its tin mining past. American architect Bill Bensley has cleverly used bare blocks, wild ponds, poured cement and jungle greenery to great effect and pleasingly, comfort has not been sacrificed for style; sprawling suites and villas feature freestanding baths, private pools and cosy corners. At Coqoon Spa, the concept of being cocooned is taken rather literally with the Nest, an impressive wicker structure suspended in a giant banyan tree.
Sophisticated Apres-Ski
Alpine charm fuses with Asian-inspired architecture at The Chedi Andermatt, a stylish retreat for those who desire sophisticated aprèsski. Designed by starchitect Jean-Michel Gathy, interiors ooze warmth and openness and feature 200 contemporary fireplaces, Rubens-style murals, a Tibetan-themed spa and a sumptuous ski room with sink in sofas, ski butlers, vintage memorabilia and quirky pieces of art. The award-winning Japanese restaurant boasts one Michelin star, 16 Gault Millau points and the most extensive sake selection in Switzerland – 35 to be exact.
Contemporary Cape Town
Opening last year, industrialchic The Silo has elevated Cape Town’s luxury offering through its celebration of art, style, architecture and design. The reimagined historic grain building houses art gallery Zeitz MOCAA – boasting the continent's largest collection of contemporary African art – and the 28 individually styled rooms have been furnished by owner Liz Biden with local pieces. But the real showstoppers are the huge geodesic windows that balloon out from the building’s façade, providing jaw-dropping views of the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain.
Luxury in Times Square
An oasis of calm amongst the noise, neon and crowds of Times Square, The Knickerbocker is a New York institution reimagined as an ultra-modern luxe sanctuary. Built by renowned entrepreneur John Jacob Aster IV in 1906, this BeauxArts beauty has hosted illustrious guests such as J.D. Rockefeller and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Today, guests can enjoy a superb culinary programme spearheaded by award-winning chef, Michelinstarred restaurateur, hotelier and author, Charlie Palmer and mouth-watering cocktails at St. Cloud, one of the city’s most magnificent rooftop bars.