MAGAZINE CARRIER
Issue 06 / Spring 2015
SPOTLIGHT: AMERICAN BEAUTIES Two epic all-season escapes that capture the remote beauty of the USA wilderness. Plus: TRENDING: GREEK ISLAND HOPPING HOTEL WITHIN A HOTEL ROMANTIC ESCAPES
An Introduction Pinnacle Worldwide is proud to partner with Carrier to showcase the latest news from the world of luxury travel. Over the following pages, you will find features on captivating destinations, the latest luxury hotel updates and fascinating travel experiences. We hope you will find plenty of ideas to inspire your next holiday. We choose our tour operator partners carefully and over the years we have worked very closely with Carrier to ensure our clients receive the very best in quality and service. If you are interested in any of these features, or should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Conor Magee
CARRIER MAGAZINE /
/ SPRING 15
CONTENTS ALSO IN THIS ISSUE Regulars
CONTRIBUTORS
10 Trending: Greek island hopping 12 Be inspired From the reopening
of an iconic safari camp in Kenya to spacious new accommodations in Borneo
20 Picture story Senior Marketing
LYNN BARBER has worked for a host of publications throughout her career and now writes interviews for The Sunday Times – which have won her six British Press Awards. She is also the author of two books of memoir, An Education (made into a successful film starring Carey Mulligan) and A Curious Career.
ISSY VON SIMSON started her career at Condé Nast ten years ago working on the supplements, she also wrote and edited the Tatler Schools Guide. But travel was her calling and, after two stints of maternity cover as Tatler’s Travel Editor, she is now Deputy Editor at Condé Nast Traveller.
Richard James
Executive, Sarah Lancashire, explores the French Riviera
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17
16
Nature’s playground... Carrier sends the first journalist to experience the new second island at NIYAMA, Maldives.
32 60 seconds with… presenter and journalist, Claudia Winkleman
33 6 hotels for… Romantic milestones 36 It’s all about…Turks & Caicos – now within easy reach thanks to new British Airways flights
42 Room with a view
D-Hotel Maris, Turkey
44 Chosen by… Head of Marketing,
Maxine Roberts, recommends the best of Barbados
Features
Hotel within a hotel... The overwhelming impression of these residences, villas and apartments is one of space. These distinctive dwellings have turned the standards of private living into a new art form, boasting enough facilities and staff to be hotels in their own right.
08 American Beauties
Aman casts its subtle sophistication and smart rustic charm across remote America
15 Eagles Palace
The ultimate for family fun
22 Redefining luxury on the
DYLAN JONES is the award-winning Editor of GQ, receiving the BSME Editor of the Year award a record nine times. Dylan has also penned several novels and is the Chairman of London Collections: Men. In 2013, he was awarded an OBE for services to publishing and the fashion industry.
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Mediterranean with the launch of Regent Seven Seas Explorer®
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Insider’s Africa… City, Winelands, safari, luxury rail: four classic South African experiences conveyed by those who know them best.
27 A Maldivian Trailblazer
Huvafen Fushi continues to raise the benchmark for indulgence
30 Bermuda: The reinvention of a mid-Atlantic masterpiece
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It’s Aman’s world...With the power to capture the imagination of keen travellers the world over, we put the spotlight on Aman and discover the unique guest experiences that take centre stage in Indochina and Sri Lanka.
40 Malaysia Genteel traditions and nostalgia at YTL Hotels’ coveted properties
46 Thailand From a teeming concrete jungle to exotic real life rainforest
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CARRIER: What’s new /
/ CARRIER: What’s new
USA •
EUROPE
The Knickerbocker hotel (pictured) in New York reopened its doors in February. Reputedly the birthplace of the Martini, enjoy the legendary cocktail in the impressive 7,500 square foot rooftop lounge.
• Paloma Faith travelled with Carrier on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express with a stay at the Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice. See page 19 for details of this romantic voyage.
• Dylan Jones, Editor of GQ travelled with Carrier to Miami and the Keys. See page 38 for his Miami style guide.
• Experience a deeply-rooted Tuscan way of life at Castiglion Del Bosco (pictured) – nestled in the breathtaking UNESCO protected site Val d’Orcia.
• An exciting addition to our USA portfolio, the Carolinas are the setting for famous scenes from Forrest Gump and Gone with the Wind.
• The Greek Islands continue to entice; we have expanded our portfolio of intimate, boutique properties for 2015/16. Island hopping is the focus on page 10.
OUR LUXURY TRAVEL PORTFOLIO
A round-up of new destinations, hotel openings, unique experiences and Carrier introductions...
AFRICA • Following a multi-award winning refurbishment, Finch Hattons reopened in February. Be inspired by this wildly elegant resort on page 13.
TRAVEL IS THE ONLY THING YOU BUY THAT MAKES YOU RICHER April marks the biggest pensions reform in over a century – and with this comes a whole host of opportunities for those aged 55 and over. We know that some of you may take advantage of greater power over how you spend your money to tick a few ‘holidays-of-a-lifetime’ off your list whilst still in good active health. With that in mind, we have curated four holiday collections to inspire and excite.
Grandkid Getaways taps into the increasing trend toward multi-generational holidays, Honeymoon Recollection rekindles the romance and Mind, Body & Soul perfectly blends zealous and Zen with exhilarating and enlightening escapes. Discover more online... at www.carrier.co.uk/magfreedom
From far-flung destinations to unique adventures, Carrier’s Once in a Lifetime recommendations span all corners of the globe and are the making of bucket-list musings. Whether discovering the Himalayas’ last remaining kingdom, taking a longed-for trip out to the Great Barrier Reef or embarking on an epic safari to spot the Big Five, we’ve got it covered.
06 / Call our specialists on 0161 820 6002 or visit www.carrier.co.uk/magazine
• From June, Elewana introduce a Kenya SkySafari. Enjoy a seven night itinerary with direct flights between lodges on their executive plane.
CARIBBEAN •
Following a three year closure and an 18 month end-to-end redesign, Malliouhana (pictured) in Anguilla reopened in November, exactly 30 years after its initial debut in 1984.
• Claudia Winkleman travelled with Carrier to Antigua. See page 32 for 60 seconds with the presenter. •
Due to high demand, British Airways will launch a second weekly flight to Providenciales, Turks & Caicos via Antigua in October. See page 36 for ‘It’s all about… Turks & Caicos’.
• Wilderness Safaris have launched Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp (pictured) – ideal for adventurous travellers looking for an off-thebeaten-track destination.
INDIAN OCEAN & ARABIA • In the Seychelles, the exceptionally beautiful and secluded Fregate Island Private (pictured) is now a member of the Oetker Collection – an inspiring selection of the world’s ‘Masterpiece Hotels’. • Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai recently revealed three new additions to their restaurants and bars. These include an all-new North Indian restaurant Nay, evening bar Beach Lounge and restaurant and beach club Cove Beach. • Raffles Praslin Seychelles welcomes Executive Chef Chris Meredith to take over the culinary reins of the resort. Chris joins Raffles from the iconic Sandy Lane, Barbados.
INDIAN SUBCONTINENT, FAR EAST & AUSTRALASIA • Kata Rocks (pictured), a sophisticated resort in Phuket, has unveiled its exclusive new Spa Pool Villa. Launched in March, the new accommodation is ideal for the ultimate in pampering. Enjoy personalised therapies from the resorts’ Infinite Luxury Spa in your private sanctuary overlooking the Andaman Sea. • British Airways is to resume direct flights to Kuala Lumpur from London Heathrow from May 2015. • Emirates have announced they are to launch a new daily service from Dubai to the beautiful island of Bali from June 2015.
Call our specialists on 0161 820 6002 or visit www.carrier.co.uk/magazine / 07
SECTION COPY CARRIER: Inspiration GOES HERE / /
/ CARRIER: Inspiration
(all 25,000 square feet) is a vast complex of stone, water and light complete with a number of unique treatment venues including a water pavilion and flotation pavilion. The central swimming pool wraps around a huge rock and the desert lounge transforms into a sunset cinema. At Amangiri, light changes by the minute as colours dance across the land shifting from ochre and bright pink to soft yellow and flaming red.
American Beauties Aman casts its authentic spell across remote America with two check-me-in-now properties…
An in-house team of guides oversees horse riding, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, canyoning, hot air ballooning and ferrata excursions (fixed rung climbing routes – not for the vertiginous). Head further afield to the Grand Canyon (two and a half hours away), take a boat trip on Lake Powell for access to some of the area’s most amazing scenery or float down the Colorado River between 300 metre high sandstone walls. This is epic America infused with Aman authenticity.
Amangani was the first Aman resort in North America, an all-season Wyoming wilderness with total wow factor. Clinging to a crest in Jackson Hole, immense views of the Grand Tetons and Snake River Valley unfurl from every window. Meaning ‘peaceful home’, Amangani is a clever cross between rustic ski chalet and luxury five-star hotel, completed by a laid back Wild West vibe.
The wood-panelled interiors are filled with fauxfur covered chairs, Native American art and lit by crackling fires; the suites all come with huge beds and uber-deep bathtubs. No room is left wanting, but the wrap-around vistas from the four corner suites pip the others to the post. The restaurant is all rawhide and rattan with banquette seating and a grill that produces melt-in-the mouth bison ribs, Kobe beef and beautifully cooked fish. The cosy Zinc Bar is the perfect chill-out zone where you can prop up the bar or relax around one of a handful of tables. But the icing on the very large cake has to be the outdoor heated swimming pool with 360 degree mountain views, a hot tub and under stone heating to ensure never a cold toe. In winter, Jackson Hole is a wonderland of snow. Voted number one ski hotel in North America by US Condé Nast Traveler, there is no better place than Amangani for snow bunnies to bed down. Just 20 minutes away is Teton Village, the base for all alpine adventurers. Shops, restaurants, cafes and bars line the streets of this mountain resort where Amangani has its own ski centre from which you can explore more than 1,000 hectares of terrain. Beyond two skis or a snowboard, guests can try anything from cross-country and snowshoeing to dog sledding and moonlit sleigh rides. When winter melts into spring, a different Jackson Hole comes alive. The mountain trails wind through wild flowers; safaris go in search of grizzly bears, elk, bison and bald eagles; there’s fly fishing, canoeing and white water rafting on Snake River and brilliant mountain biking through the forests of Grand Teton National Park.
08 / Call our specialists on 0161 826 2583 or visit www.carrier.co.uk/magazine
“THE REGION IS SPARSELY POPULATED, YOU FEEL THE STRONG PULL OF SOLITUDE... THIS IS EPIC AMERICA INFUSED WITH AMAN AUTHENTICITY”
Clockwise from left: Amangani lounge in winter, Amangani swimming pool in summer, Amangiri pavilion and swimming pool, Amangiri Mesa View Suite
Another epic all-season escape is Amangiri in southern Utah, near where it meets Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado. Meaning ‘peaceful mountain’, it is hidden away in Canyon Point amid 600 acres of private land and within easy reach of the Grand Canyon, Colorado River, Monument Valley and Zion National Park. This natural stone resort blends into its surroundings, where deep canyons and towering rocks create a raw landscape of stark beauty. The region, home to the native Navajo and Hopi tribes, is sparsely populated and you feel the strong pull of solitude. The 34 suites are simple but gorgeous with clever concertina glass doors that open out onto private desert courtyards. The restaurant features an open kitchen with a wood-fired oven; the walk-in wine cellar is a must-peek and the spa
Call our specialists on 0161 826 2583 or visit www.carrier.co.uk/magazine / 09
CARRIER: Inspiration /
TRENDING: GREEK ISLAND HOPPING Greece and her islands is the destination of choice for multi-centre exploration in 2015.
Renowned hospitality, panoramic vistas and exceptionally fresh seafood, the Greek isles have it all… The allure of Greece continues to entice, the destination proving to be very much en vogue for 2015 – and it’s all about the islands. Popular yet still offering a small and intimate experience, the islands are world-famous for their beauty, hospitality and wonderful climate, regularly appearing in media round-ups as the most beautiful in the world – including both reader-voted and editorial shortlists from Condé Nast Traveller. Greece has around 6,000 islands and islets scattered in the Aegean and Ionian seas, of which only 227 are inhabited. The Holy Trinity for Greek escapes this year is Crete, Greece’s largest island, Santorini and Mykonos – all also named in the recent ‘Best Greek Islands’ review by The Telegraph. So, how to choose between the three? Simple – don’t. Combine all for the epitome of Greek chic; the perfect opportunity to soak up the culture and splendour of this magnificent country. Crete The fifth-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, and the largest in Greece. Heraklion, the capital, is served by many UK airports and makes the ideal starting point for Greek gallivanting. The island is mountainous, formed by three separate ranges, and with this comes lush valleys teeming with gorges, rivers, lakes and caves – one of which is said to be the birthplace of Zeus. Travellers seeking Cretan couture head to Elounda, located to the east of the island, which offers stylish accommodation on captivating shores. Be sure to visit the small traditional fishing village of Plaka, the ideal spot to watch fishermen haul in their prized catch, which serve the local restaurants with the freshest fish imaginable. Hidden treasure: Enjoy a private boat trip to Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony until 1957, and the inspiration for best-selling novel ‘The Island’ by Victoria Hislop.
Santorini Both Santorini and Mykonos belong to a group of islands known as The Cyclades. Meaning ‘circular islands’, they surround the sacred and uninhabited Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Famed for its colourful cliffs, whitewashed architecture and blue domed churches, Santorini is a true gem sat amidst the gleaming waters of the Aegean. Santorini, or Thíra, is the largest island of a small archipelago of the same name, but remains the star of the show, and for good reason. Here, fine wineries, art, gourmet food and ancient history, oh – and of course the renowned and exquisite Santorini sunsets, blend together to create a quintessentially Grecian experience. Hidden treasure: Take the cable car from the harbour to the town of Fira for panoramic sunset vistas of the Santorini caldera. Mykonos Mykonos has a glamorous reputation that it is not afraid to live up to, with an outgoing and cosmopolitan lifestyle paired with a whimsical landscape, made up of rugged hills, powder soft beaches, white chapels and traditional architecture. Mykonos Town is a maze of tiny streets, paved with houses and churches, which gathers around the harbour. Over to the west you will find Little Venice – a picturesque hub abuzz with bars and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy fresh fish or a chilled glass of wine whilst admiring the Venetian-modelled houses that line the waterfront. For the best views on the island, head to the traditional windmills atop a hill that look out over the town. Hidden treasure: Linger over a fresh seafood lunch complete with crisp Greek salad at the local Babulas Tavern on the water’s edge.
10 / Call our specialists on 0161 826 2584 or visit www.carrier.co.uk/magazine
CARRIER: CARRIER:Inspiration Edits / /
SHANGRI-LA’S RASA RIA RESORT & SPA, KOTA KINABALU, BORNEO Orang Utans in their jungle habitat. Hiking up brooding Mount Kinabalu. Inviting Pantai Dalit beach. The area has a number of calling cards, and, pegged as one of the six best hotels in the world for outdoor experiences by Carrier specialists, Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria provides the perfect base to explore from with their new Ocean Wing rooms. There is a distinctly Malaysian flavour to the décor of the 90 rooms, offering soft earthy tones and intricately carved panels. With spacious balconies, double bath tubs and take-your-breath-away sea views courtesy of the higher floors, the Ocean Wing is actually more suited to couples. This wing has its own free-form swimming pool set amidst acres of tropical gardens, ideally situated away from splash-inducing water babies at the main pool. Breakfast is exclusive too – highly acclaimed Coast, with a beachfront location and under the sea décor, is reserved for guests of the Ocean Wing. You’d be forgiven for wanting to while away your time here or on the sands of Dalit Beach, but the activities are certainly worth dragging yourself away for – in addition to the resort’s watersports and 18 hole golf course, Borneo’s wildlife can be discovered in the company of a ranger in the hotel’s own nature reserve; or there’s horse riding and deep-sea fishing.
BeINSPIRED
A new level of accommodation
/ CARRIER: / CARRIER: Inspiration Edits
A new era for a Saint Lucia institution
EAST WINDS, SAINT LUCIA
TAKE INSPIRATION AND HEAD FOR UNIQUE RESORTS, UNCHARTED TERRITORIES AND TIMELESSLY CLASSIC DESTINATIONS.
Earlier this year, one of the oldest and most established hotels in the Caribbean saw a change in management. Set in 12 tropical acres, this cottage style all-inclusive property has been successfully and lovingly run by Gareth Leach for over two decades. Repeat guests rest assured that Jesse Hamilton – previously General Manager of a lakefront all-inclusive resort and championship golf course in Canada – will not be changing the essence of the hotel. It will remain as a place of understated elegance. A place where you can enjoy delectable cuisine and outstanding service in a tranquil environment. Any changes Jesse Hamilton makes will only serve to enhance this slice of paradise. Social events are one of the first tweaks; the sunset cruise with Champagne and canapés is proving popular on Thursday evenings. Pre-select your mini-bar items with the new pre-arrival concierge service, order drinks from the waiters that now come to the beach or savour delights from the all-day light bite menu. Coming soon: One of the garden pavilions will feature a small gym and there will be an openair massage space. The rest of the staff remain unchanged – from Henry in the bar to Nico at the waterfront. First-timers, who experience these enhancements alongside the popular lobster grills prepared by the award-winning chef and the relaxing sands of La Brelotte Bay, will likely return year after year.
12 / Call our specialists on 0161 820 6002 or visit www.carrier.co.uk/magazine
A peaceful haven, a buzzing hub
VILLA SAMADHI, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA Will you opt for a city break or a resort for your next trip with your loved one? Villa Samadhi could very well be the answer. Just ten minutes from KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) and Bukit Bintang (shopping and entertainment district) lies one of Kuala Lumpur’s best kept secrets. Picture your own private villa, a sort of home away from home in an upscale neighbourhood of this vivacious capital. Once through the discreet gate, you are likely to forget where you are. Surrounded by embassies and consulates, Villa Samadhi proffers a cluster of 21 rustic-luxe rooms, all with a distinctly Asian flavour, yet each one displaying its own individual character. ‘Sarang’ has a kitchen whilst on the highest floor, ‘The Loft’ features a shallow lap pool with far-reaching views – including a glimpse of the Petronas towers. Expect all-wood interiors, large bathrooms and rainwater showers, high plush beds, comfortable day beds around the lagoon-shaped pool and delicious food at all-day hexagonal-shaped restaurant Mandi-Mandi, that is just open for guests. Devour traditional Malay or international cuisine for supper – the marsala marinated skewered seafood comes highly recommended. First come, first served: rooftop Bumbung Bar is the place to be for laid back sunset cocktails, but only seats six. Adventure seekers are also taken care of with activity programmes that can be enjoyed from the hotel including white water rafting, high ropes courses and abseiling.
Out of Africa’s glamorous colonial lifestyle
FINCH HATTONS, TSAVO WEST NATIONAL PARK, KENYA Realise the golden era of safari whilst enjoying breathtaking landscapes of Mount Kilimanjaro at this iconic tented camp. Denys Finch Hatton, an aristocratic big-game hunter, travelled to Kenya in 1911 (then known as British East Africa) and was enraptured by the wilds of the country. Becoming a safari guide for fellow aristocrats, he is credited for introducing tourism to Tsavo National Park. Lover of Baroness Karen Blixen (pen name Isak Dinesen), who wrote about him in her autobiographical book, Out of Africa, this legend was the source of inspiration for Finch Hattons over two decades ago. Meticulously planned by renowned South African lodge architect Francois Theron, the property reopened in February after undergoing a multi-million dollar remodel and refurbishment. Set around natural spring pools inhabited by hippos and an ideal place to unwind post safari, this remarkable camp preserves the ideals that Denys lived by – a passion for the thrills of Africa coupled with elegance, style and home comforts – Mozart, multi-course gourmet meals and cut crystal were a necessity to him. Beautifully styled history has been retained; there are now 17 tented suites each with a private outdoor shower and deck to take in Kenya’s most striking vistas. A stargazing terrace with incredible 360 degree panoramas is perfect for enjoying sundowners as the sun sets over Kilimanjaro. Practicing yoga on the deck overlooking the Chyulu Hills and a massage by Valentine at the spa are not to be missed. Discover more online... Read Product Manager, Suzanne Walford’s personal review.
Call our specialists on 0161 820 6002 or visit www.carrier.co.uk/magazine / 13
CARRIER: Inspiration /
/ CARRIER: / CARRIER: Inspiration Edits
Food and spa gurus await
GRAN HOTEL BAHIA DEL DUQUE, TENERIFE Located in the central square of the hotel, emblematic restaurant, La Brasserie, reopened in mid-March with a fully renovated design – inspired by traditional Parisian brasseries, there is furniture from French Provence, lamps from the 19th Century and chairs from the sixties – and a refreshed dinner menu with a renewed concept by prestigious Belgian chef Pierre Résimont, expert in international cuisine. Savour Mollet eggs, cépes soup, croutons and foie gras. “Passion, creativity and flavours are the ingredients of my cuisine and I hope the guests of Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque enjoy it” states Résimont. The pièce de résistance has to be the new open kitchen.
Clockwise from left: The Blue Flag beach, Kids Club, seawater swimming pool
The more health and wellbeing conscious guest will be keen to visit the large spa which features thalassotherapy treatments and hot stone massage with lava rocks. There’s a sauna, Turkish bath, a healthy-eating restaurant, a thalassotherapy pool and a beauty salon with a full menu of treatments. And a Kinesis Gym and Chi studio – for the free Pilates sessions. The highlight – prestigious sports physiotherapist Michal Novotny has a practice within the Bahia Spa. First-class sports massage techniques with osteopathy, overall posture re-education and anti-aging treatments await – if he’s good enough for the likes of Nadal, Federer, Sharapova and Gulbis, then you’re in the right hands. Want an excuse to visit the practice? There’s golf, tennis and a host of watersports available at ths resort.
A refreshing blend of old and new
MARBELLA CLUB HOTEL, GOLF RESORT & SPA, SPAIN
In days gone by, the Spanish fishing village of Marbella was turned into a world-famous resort by playboy and businessman, Prince Alfonso de Hohenlohe-Langenburg. At the peak of his fame his hotel, The Marbella Club, situated on the Golden Mile, was Audrey Hepburn, Cary Grant and Sir Laurence Olivier’s hangout of choice. This party pad of the fifties is now firmly established as the ideal escape for all. Set in the heart of the hotel, the Minimec-designed 5,000 square metre Kids Club educates and engages children in a playful, dynamic and stylish environment. Adults will enjoy the luxurious beachfront Thalasso Spa and the Dave Thomasdesigned 18 hole golf course within the hills of Benahavis.
Live like a celebrity and a local
HALF MOON, A ROCKRESORT, JAMAICA Here, an archetypal Caribbean retreat meets with experiential travel. Colonial-style architecture, a sweeping crescent-shaped bay and delectable dining couple with unique recreational offerings. Reserved exclusively for guests, the resort offers swimming with dolphins on site. You can also be guided out to sea where you can swim with a horse – the hotel has their own Equestrian Centre managed by former show jumper, Trina DeLisser. The latest offering – new one-of-a-kind private day adventures to experience the real Jamaica. Guests can ‘live like a local’ as they are welcomed into the homes of notable working families who have made significant contributions to the world of the arts, food and coffee.
14 / Call our specialists on 0161 820 6002 or visit www.carrier.co.uk/magazine
EAGLES PALACE, HALKIDIKI, GREECE
THE ULTIMATE FOR FAMILY FUN Run by the Tornivoukas family for over 40 years, immerse yourself in the familiar and the familial at this well-known resort situated on an unspoilt stretch of the Halkidiki peninsula. On one side you will find the UNESCO-designated Mount Athos majestically dominating its surroundings and on the other a long, sandy beach, widely considered to be one of the best in Greece. From your first steps into the inviting lobby, you are truly welcomed like one of the family here, where authentic Grecian accents meet modern touches. A celebratory glass of Ouzo must be raised to Konstantinos and Lena Tornivoukas who excel at keeping the traditions of their ancestors alive whilst embarking on new projects. The latest of which is the opening of the eagerly anticipated Explorers Club, offering age-themed activities for the tiniest of tots and the most tenacious of teens.
The Nest, a dedicated space within the hotel, welcomes little ones from four months to four years old and features a special sleep room that is perfect for afternoon naps, whilst children between the ages of five and 13 years are seconds from the sand and sea at The Beach Shack. Both are spacious and offer a vast selection of toys, games and entertainment. Fussy eaters are well-catered for with fresh, kid-friendly meals tailored to personal preferences and dietary requirements. Children will make new friends and learn new skills on fun-filled days and harness their imaginations as they become artists, inventors, explorers or chefs, under the watchful eyes of leading childcare professionals. Those children with a passion for all things aqua can become successful seafarers in no time with Aqua Explorers – a specially designed six day watersports programme
for children from the age of five. Under the guidance of RYA-qualified instructors, after learning the important theory, budding Ben Ainslies can build their confidence on the water in a sailboat or kayak and even try their hand at water-skiing, paddle boarding, wakeboarding or windsurfing. At the end of the week, children are encouraged to enter the fun-focused regatta where they can compete for prizes. If that isn’t enough to sate aquatic appetites, the hotel also boasts a PADI dive centre. After an actionpacked day, retire to your elegant two bedroom seafront bungalow with the kids to recharge your batteries.
WANT MORE? Close by is Mount Athos – home to the oldest surviving monastic community in the world. Take a boat around the peninsula with a local guide to explain the rich history.
Call our specialists on 0161 826 2584 or visit www.carrier.co.uk/magazine / 15
CARRIER: In the know /
Nature’s playground...
NIYAMA
A 3G HOLIDAY WITH RENOWNED JOURNALIST LYNN BARBER
This resort has been cutting-edge in the Maldives since its inception three years ago. NIYAMA brought us modern luxe indulgencies including everything from Subsix, the ground breaking underwater music club (now also a venue for lunch and dinner), to little touches like complimentary in-room popcorn machines and ice cream for movie nights in. Per AQUUM continues to innovate with the opening of a second island at NIYAMA – aptly named ‘Play’ – it is heavily family orientated. A short hop across a wooden bridge from the original island, ‘Chill’, it introduces 48 new villas offering the best in indoor-outdoor living, two unique restaurants (Blu is beachside, whilst Nest is six metres above the ground amongst banyan trees) and the only children’s club in the Maldives to accept children less than three years old.
“Jumby Bay is a beautiful 300 acre private island, a couple of miles off the coast of Antigua, with the most perfect whitesand crescent beach I have ever seen. I took my daughter Theo, son-in-law Sasha and their two children Effie, 3, and Enzo, 1, and we were given a lovely villa, Jabberwocky, with an infinity pool overlooking a sheep meadow and then the sea. We had a golf cart and bikes to travel the half mile or so to the hotel – the children adored the golf cart so it was easy to whizz down to the restaurant and the beach, or to the kids’ club where we could
leave the children for a couple of hours to go to the spa. The great thing about staying in one of the gorgeous private villas when you have small children is that you don’t have to worry about them making a noise and you can wake up at dawn (as they always do), go to the beach, nap in the afternoon, and generally arrange your day as best suits you. Our villa had all the equipment for cooking our own meals or having a barbecue if we’d wanted to, but actually we never did because the hotel food was so good. An altogether idyllic holiday.”
ISSY VON SIMSON Deputy Editor, Condé Nast Traveller “It might seem ludicrous to take a seven-month-old baby half way round the world to a tropical hotspot, but the chance to be the first journalist to see the latest excitements at NIYAMA was persuasion enough. The setting is a sensation, a postcard perfect vision of icing sugar sand, the palest blue warm water and rustling palm trees, and there’s now a freshly opened second island, Play, which marks the resort’s dedicated immersion into family friendliness. There, wonderfully smart family villas join the bright and breezy
Blu restaurant and children’s pool. But for all the gloriousness of the hotel itself, it’s the staff that made my stay so relaxing. All of them are outrageously welcoming and ever adoring of the younger guests. Little ones from just 12 months can hang out in the fantastic new all singing, all dancing kids club and for even tinier nippers like mine, there are babysitters on tap. Which meant I could actually swim, snorkel, spa, sunbathe and sleep, making the three flights it took to get here more than worthwhile.”
Hotel within a hotel For anybody who likes to blur the lines between the luxuries of staying in an exclusive hotel and the charm of having a place to yourself, we have picked out distinctive dwellings that have turned the standards of private living into a new art form – these residences, villas and apartments boast enough facilities, space and staff to be hotels in their own right. Estate Homes and Villas at Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort ~ Antigua The three-generation holiday is on the rise. With grandparents enjoying more active, longer and fuller retirements, top of the list are often family holidays for all. With that in mind, Jumby Bay has a multitude of homes that can cater for the whole tribe. Privately owned and each individually designed with its own unique style, 17 luxury villas, four gorgeous beach homes and a dozen exclusive estate homes are sprinkled around this dot
of an island as hidden retreats. Architectural and interior styles vary from neo-colonial to ultra-contemporary Caribbean. Each opening up onto the four mile coastline, these properties feel wonderfully secluded with no need for high walls and are found by following long, meandering driveways through a lush tropical landscape. The overwhelming impression of these residences is one of space; several with pools larger than some hotel swimming pools in the Caribbean. Others boast everything from their very own flood-lit tennis court, personal fitness centre and games room to acres of manicured gardens, a Red-Footed Turtle sanctuary and rooftop tower lounge. All Beach and Estate Homes come with private chef, housekeeper and butler.
Call our specialists on 0161 820 6002 or visit www.carrier.co.uk/magazine / 17
/ CARRIER: In the know
CARRIER: In the know /
Left: Sugar Beach Grand Luxury Villa. Below: The Cane Bar at Sugar Beach, The St. Regis Mauritius Resort beach and Villa. Right above: Villa One at Soneva Fushi. Right below: Aegean Pool Villa at Elounda Gulf Villas.
Soneva Fushi ~ Maldives Barefoot luxury? Check. Castaway chic? Check. Premier dive spots? Of course. Soneva Fushi has proven that beach is beautiful by bucking the regional trend for over-water villas in favour of thatched properties just steps away from the warm, clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Hidden away in jungle foliage, Soneva Fushi offers 57 individually themed eco-fabulous villas, however the impressive six and four bedroom private villas are worthy of a special mention. Fitted with thatch, bamboo and sustainable wood furnishings and complete with a rustic style finish, these villas are the epitome of indoor-outdoor living, fused with an expanse of space.
The Residences at Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort ~ St Lucia It has become apparent that a growing number of the elite are now adapting to the sought after ‘room service’ lifestyle. Many affluent New Yorkers choose to live in iconic addresses such as The Mark or The Plaza – purely for the five-star treatment and services they provide. Recognising this, the Viceroy Group pulled in one of the most renowned architects in the Caribbean and RIBA-member, Lane Pettigrew, to design its West Indian influenced residences, providing a truly spectacular Caribbean home from home experience with all the benefits Sugar Beach has to offer. The views have been carefully plotted from each angle to really make the most of its setting – enjoy breakfast on your spacious terrace with intuitive services by your dedicated butler and relax by your own infinity-edge pool, taking in the panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea whilst listening to the exotic sounds of the rainforest. If you can drag yourself away from your perfect holiday abode, scuba dive through the waters of the nationally protected marine reserve, enjoy a hot rock therapy in one of
Submerge yourself in your own sea water swimming pool whilst your Mr/Ms Friday is on hand to cater to your every need. Oenophiles will love the walk-in mini bar area with substantial wine fridges in the residences, whilst children will love the giant water slide in Villas 11 and 15. Families have the run of their own stretch of beach and the beguiling house reef; take advantage of the resort’s complimentary activity programmes and snorkel below the surface of the Maldivian lagoon or scuba dive with one of the PADIcertified instructors. Wind down at the end of the day by bathing in your open-air garden bathroom and enjoy peace and tranquillity to the utmost level.
the traditionally built tree house treatment rooms or sip on a rum cocktail made by the professional rummelier in The Cane Bar.
The St. Regis Villa at The St. Regis Mauritius Resort This resort has it all, an unparalleled setting, world-class amenities and, reserved only for a special few, The St. Regis Villa – the largest and possibly the most exclusive beachfront address on the island. In today’s world privacy can sometimes be hard to come by so, shielded by luscious tropical surroundings, this palatial home is the ultimate getaway for the reserved traveller. Expect four oversized ocean-fronted suites – three of which have their own individual tempered plunge pools – plush indoor and outdoor living spaces, a gym complete with steam room and direct access to the beach. The attention to detail from your dedicated team of manager, St. Regis Butlers, valets and chefs, sets this villa apart and raises it to be the island’s top contender. They will prepare everything from selecting which of your preferred amenities are stocked (choose
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from Remède, Jo Malone, Aqua Di Parma and Hermès) and sourcing your children’s favourite treats, to arranging a private cinema viewing in La Palme D’Or and scheduling a kite surfing lesson at the infamous One Eye. With an experienced culinary team at your disposal, dining options are endless – a celebratory banquet in your dining room, breakfast in your garden or an informal lunch by the pool. It will be hard to remember that you are in a holiday resort at all, so don’t forget you can also choose from the four distinct gastronomic experiences offered by the main hotel.
Elounda Gulf Villas & Suites Crete, Greece Tucked away on a hillside overlooking the beautiful Mirabello Bay, sits this family-run bolt-hole. Providing you with the warmest welcome, Anna Kadianakis, one of the owners and her daughter Charitini greet you with a delicious Cretan feast to ensure you feel at home from the moment you arrive at your intimate villa. As a proud member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the exclusive resort offers secluded retreats with bountiful privacy. Highly regarded by today’s glitterati, Oscar-winning actress, Jodie Foster, recently enjoyed a stay in a lavish three bedroom villa with her two sons whilst visiting the captivating island of Crete.
The spacious villas are individually designed to combine luxurious elegance with contemporary comfort. Floor-to-ceiling windows lead to an impressive infinity pool – relax in the glistening waters and take in the sweeping mountain and sea views. Undisturbed isolation can still be maintained even if you wish to leave the resort; the hotel invites guests to rent a remarkable sailing or motorboat to visit alluring beaches, isolated coves, the uninhabited island of Kolokytha and the famous island of Spinalonga. A bespoke itinerary can be created for you to take in as much or as little as you wish.
Want more? Mandarin Oriental Bodrum The apartments here offer the perfect combination of space and style for larger groups. You can choose from one to three bedroom dwellings, with either panoramic vistas over the Aegean Sea or views over the lush surrounding pine trees. But our favourite has to be the four bedroom duplex with private pool.
Anassa, Cyprus Andromeda, Alcyone, Aether and Alexandros are the four available villas; the latter being the most opulent. These whitewashed homes decorated with antiques and original artwork impart all the charm of a traditional Cypriot village. Set within their own gardens, each has its own plunge pool on sea-facing terraces.
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CARRIER: In the know /
/ CARRIER: In the know
I FLY HOME WITH THE SOUTH OF FRANCE IMPRINTED ON MY HEART AND MY HEAD FILLED WITH DREAMS OF A RETURN
Picture story...
LA VIE EST BELLE
this is one property that does not disappoint on the design front with interiors by Jacques Garcia and the ODYSSEY pool area and restaurant designed by Karl Lagerfeld.
The French Riviera. Three words that conjure up images of sophisticated glamour, refined elegance and, oh, so much more. Our Senior Marketing Executive, Sarah Lancashire, discovered that life really is beautiful on the Côte d’Azur. The diversity and beauty of France is never more epitomised than on this stretch of Mediterranean coastline. The contrast of the bluest of blue seas set against the lush green hillside and golden sands is nature’s perfect juxtaposition. Driving along the coastal highway from Nice to Eze, each curve in the road reveals one spectacular vista after another, but none quite prepare you for the sight that greets you upon arrival at Le Château de la Chèvre d’Or. Utterly unique and idiosyncratically charming, the rooms of this property are scattered around a tiny medieval village; perched high on a hillside that cascades down to the sparkling seas below, the views
Clockwise from left: Royal Riviera exterior and pool, terrace view at Le Château de la Chèvre d’Or, entrance to Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo,
Presidential Suite at Le Château de la Chèvre d’Or, La Pergola pool at Le Mas Candille, Junior Suite Sea View at Royal Riviera
from here quite literally take your breath away. Indulgence is enjoying a glass of Champagne (served in bespoke Lalique flutes no less) whilst drinking in the incredible panoramas. I could continue to wax lyrical about this idyllic hidden gem, but my trip had to continue – the uberglitz of Monte Carlo was calling. The high-adrenalin Grand Prix, the superyachtfilled harbour, the streets dressed with designer boutiques and the opulent casinos; Monaco is an intoxicating cocktail indeed. Immerse yourself in this hedonistic heaven and sip a chilled drink at the infamous Café de Paris in Casino Square watching the great and good glide by, surrounded by the irresistible chic of the city. Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo is the perfect base. Imbued with a true sense of style,
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Leaving Monaco, we head to Saint-Jean-CapFerrat – this time taking the lower coastal road that weaves through pretty French fishing towns and tiny ports. In divine contrast to the buzz of Monte Carlo, the Royal-Riviera nestles down by a stretch of beach, shimmering in the sunshine haze with an air of cool and relaxed refinement. Lazing in the sun by the pool on a plush sun lounger, drink in hand or relaxing on the large terrace with cooling sea breezes caressing your skin, you can’t help but feel that this is the quintessential Riviera. Following a refurbishment, the rooms are airy and fresh – with accents of colour such as coral and duck egg blue – and the air is filled with the scent of the bespoke Royal-Riviera perfume. A lovely touch – guests are gifted with a packaged pillow fragrance when they leave; the aroma of the Côte d’Azur can fill your dreams at home! Leaving the beaches behind, we head inland to the picturesque hilltop village of Mougins and hotel Le Mas Candille – an absolute
Clockwise from top left: Dining alfresco, view from Le Château de la Chèvre d’Or, bespoke Lalique flutes, Monte Carlo marina
hidden gem. Timelessly charming with views through the purple haze of distant mountains and landscapes of cypresses and lavender, the contrast is spectacular. Exceptional views aside, this retreat swaddles guests in Provençal charm; each individually designed room is a masterpiece of interior design, the shady grounds and exquisite pool areas provide perfect pockets of privacy and Le Candille restaurant offers Michelin-starred culinary creations to savour. It seems that one cannot help but relinquish everyday worries here; I spent my time at Le Mas Candille in a state of serene bliss. Mougins itself is a gentle five minute stroll away, perfectly positioned for exploration. It has a strong culinary history with renowned chefs such as Roger Vergé and Alain Ducasse having managed restaurants here, whilst art is interwoven into the very fabric of the village. Pablo Picasso spent the last 12 years of his life here; his studio was housed in a building that is now the tourist office. A visit to the Musée d’art Classique de Mougins is an absolute must – the extensive collection is a captivating combination of ancient, neoclassical, modern and contemporary art including the world’s largest private collection of ancient arms and armour. Too soon my French Riviera journey is at an end and I fly home with the South of France imprinted on my heart and my head filled with dreams of a return.
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CARRIER: In the know /
Clockwise from left: Canal in Venice, Regent Suite in-room spa, Seven Seas Explorer, Regent Suite Master Bedroom
REDEFINING LUXURY ON THE MEDITERRANEAN
IT’S AMAN’S WORLD
Regent Seven Seas Explorer®
Summer 2016 will see the launch of the much-anticipated Seven Seas Explorer®, self-proclaimed as the most luxurious ship ever built – the maiden voyage having already sold out within 36 hours of reservations opening. In its first season, the ship will sail to ports in Monte Carlo, Venice, Rome, Lisbon, Barcelona, Athens, Istanbul and Jerusalem. Carrying only 750 guests, she will be the most spacious ship at sea and boast the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the cruising world.
personal guide await you at every port. The upper level suites carry themed designs from the sophisticated summer house-style of the Penthouse Suites to the Park Avenue look and feel of the Master Suites. With a bar replenished regularly with your favourites and daily canapés delivered to your suite, all also come with the services of a dedicated butler who can provide in-suite dining, served course by course.
All-suite accommodations
World-renowned architectural and interior designers have paid attention to every tiny detail. From French restaurant, Chartreuse, having flooring designed to imitate a cobblestoned street, mimicking a Parisian eatery, to the Constellation Theatre – paying homage to ornate show palaces of Hollywood’s golden age with an intricate entry-way mosaic, cabaret-style seating and table-top Murano glass lamps.
The enormous Regent Suite is a one-of-a-kind, new category suite on the highest deck. An outdoor area, aptly named the Vista Garden offers unobstructed 270 degree views over the ship’s bow. Inside, there’s a private in-room spa (a first at sea) where you can indulge in as many complimentary spa treatments as you wish. When you do feel inclined to leave your opulent quarters, a private car with driver and a
Celebrated designers
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Unlimited shore excursions Regent is the only luxury cruise line to offer complimentary unlimited shore excursions in every port of call, all meticulously designed to take in a perfect combination of diverse coastal gems and relaxing sea days. Explore as many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, renowned museums and famous landmarks as your penchant for adventure allows. Learn from the charismatic specialists from The Smithsonian Collection – from art historians to awardwinning authors, sharing their knowledge of the region you are visiting. Three new destinations include historic neighbourhoods in Bastia in France, Portoferraio (Elba) in Italy and La Goulette in Tunisia.
Can’t wait until 2016? Regent Seven Seas Cruises® have a host of special offers for cruises in the Mediterranean departing this summer, on board the Seven Seas Mariner® and Seven Seas Voyager®.
AMAN IS SOMETHING OF A PHENOMENON CAPTURING THE IMAGINATION OF KEEN TRAVELLERS THE WORLD OVER. This is an experiential brand, driving a new kind of luxury travel that inspires, educates and captivates. For this issue we put the spotlight on Indochina and Sri Lanka. Since opening Amanpuri in 1988, Aman has never deviated from its original vision. This is no ordinary world but one that is driven by creativity rather than profit, where the bed count is low, the staff to guest ratio high, the locations perspective-changing and the experience once-ina-lifetime. Never showy, just simple, elegant and destination-led, those who have been caught under Aman’s spell (and there is an ever-growing gang of devotees) rarely break free.
CARRIER: Spotlight /
/ CARRIER: Spotlight
South of Nha Trang and hugged by the magnificent Nui Chua National Park, this is Aman at its contemporary cleverest. The hotel sits on a hilltop with magnificent views of Vinh Hy Bay’s blinding sand and the glinting East Sea. There are 31 idyllic pavilions and five villas but it is the full-service Aman Spa that tops the podium. Built around a tranquil lotus-filled lake and surrounded by lush hills, it combines yoga and tai chi with a brilliant spa menu that uses traditional Vietnamese ingredients including aromatic herbs, rice and coffee. The food is also a highlight and almost guilt-free (Vietnamese is one of the world’s healthiest cuisines): try Muc Rang Muoi Tieu (salt and pepper stir fried squid) or Goi Buoi So Diep (scallop & pomelo salad) and always, always tuck into a steaming bowl of pho. Tear yourself away and explore the region’s natural beauty: snorkel the coral reefs, kayak around the rocky bay, explore local fishing villages or trek through the national park.
INSIDE INDOCHINA Aman first opened its doors back in 1988 with Phuket’s exceptional Amanpuri. Meaning ‘place of peace’ in Sanskrit, the name is spot-on. Situated in a coconut plantation overlooking the Andaman Sea and snow-white sand of Pansea Beach, this is dreamy world-away territory where time floats by in a tropical haze. The Thai-style pavilions (40) and villas (43) tumble down the hillside, simple sanctuaries with super-sized beds and sunken baths. Amanpuri is also home to the first ever Aman Spa and no stay would be complete without top-to-toe pampering in this light-filled haven of serenity. The food is also exceptional with restaurants serving Thai, Italian and Japanese: try Phuket lobster or pla yang (fish wrapped in banana leaves and grilled). Amanpuri also comes with its own fleet of luxury boats – perfect for no-hassle island exploration. Check out the surrounding area: there are more than 30 Buddhist temples alone on Phuket; take a private cruise to Phang Nga and drift through the labyrinth of limestone pillars; head further afield to the remote Similan Islands for superb scuba diving or island hop around Krabi. But the other beauty of Thailand is that it is brilliantly easy to combine with neighbouring Laos and Cambodia as well as a short hop away from Vietnam. Self-proclaimed Aman junkies will probably already know that all three countries feature an Aman hideaway. Cambodia’s cultural capital Siem Reap, a characterful town just minutes from the World Heritage Site of Angkor is home to the wonderful Amansara. The former guesthouse of King Sihanouk, it has a cool sixties vibe with low-slung chalets spaced around a quirkily shaped swimming pool. Former guests include Charles de Gaulle and Jacqueline Kennedy, but today this residence is a beautiful must-stay 24 suite resort. Amansara retains the ambience of a private home and is a standout base for any trip to the 1000 plus temples of Angkor. Guests can soak up the laidback vibe of Siem Reap, listen to monks chanting, cool down with an Angkor beer and explore the fascinating culture and history of the Khmer Empire. The hotel organises a variety of temple tours and cultural walks or alternatively hire a bicycle and set out independently. Spot orange-robed monks going about their daily lives, branch off to lesser (sometimes deserted) temples, watch the sun sink over 12th Century Angkor Wat and
Clockwise from left: Amanpuri Two Bedroom Pool Pavilion, Amantaka suite pool, Amantaka spa treatment room, Amano’i Cliff Pool, Amansara swimming pool
be moved by the sheer history unfolding before your eyes. Back in Amansara relax in the spa, dine on the roof terrace or just enjoy the peace of this mesmerising part of the world. Just an hour’s flight north of Siem Reap is the picturesque city of Luang Prabang, one of the highlights of landlocked Laos. This country has a gentle spirit, a sleepy nature and is a wonderful add-on to any Southeast Asian trip. Most travellers head for Luang Prabang, the once royal capital tucked onto the banks of the Mekong where French colonial buildings intersperse with glinting temples. Buddhism is
“AMANSARA’S CIRCULAR DINING ROOM FEATURES A STARTLING SEVEN METRE CEILING AS WELL AS A WALK-IN WINE AND CHEESE CELLAR.”
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an intrinsic part of the city and saffron-robed monks aged from eight to 80 are a common sight. It’s impossible not to fall in love with a place where life is so laidback and languid. The streets are lined with bakeries, restaurants and boutiques; the night market is a must-visit, as is one of the many exceptional cookery schools where you can learn the art of preparing noodle soup and spicy papaya salad. And here Aman strikes gold again in the form of Amantaka. Housed in a colonial building, it is within strolling distance of the town centre. Small in size with 24 suites and one villa, Aman junkies can’t stop raving about this boutique bolthole. Fantastic food features authentic Laos and French and the spa has four double treatment rooms. The hotel organises very good city tours taking in many temples, whilst the Pak Ou Caves tour, following in the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims up the Mekong, also comes highly recommended. Next door in en vogue Vietnam, Aman has also made its debut with the staggeringly beautiful beachside resort of Amano’i.
WISH UPON A SPA... Aman’s spas use a unique chemical-free product range that works holistically to nurture the skin and enhance overall wellbeing. Every spa offers an exceptional experience but couples will love the double treatment rooms at Luang Prabang’s Amantaka, while Amano’i’s spa is a destination in itself.
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CARRIER: Spotlight /
Clockwise from left: Amangalla swimming pool, Amangalla exterior, Amanwella swimming pool, Amangalla bathroom
A Maldivian Trailblazer OUT AND ABOUT Drive out into rural Sri Lanka and visit ancient temples and villages where time has slowed to a standstill. Return via Handunugoda tea plantation, just 25 minutes east of Galle, it is the perfect place to refuel on tea and cake.
WHALE OF A TIME Between December and April head 40 minutes out of town to Mirissa Harbour for dolphin and blue whale watching from a local fishing trawler.
MASTERCHEF Guests with a passion for cooking can now learn to prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes with Amanwella chefs at the outdoor coconut grove kitchen. And don’t miss Amanwella’s seafood barbecue feasts on the beach.
SEDUCTIVE SRI LANKA Two’s company with Aman’s Sri Lankan town/beach combo Amangalla sits within the historic ramparts of 17th Century Galle Fort, its narrow streets lined with Dutch and British colonial buildings. The hotel features beautiful 200 year old gardens while interiors evoke old-world nostalgia with wooden floors, rich mahogany and rooms crammed full of antiques and old prints. The bedrooms, chambers and suites are whimsical with four-poster beds and freestanding baths. The two storey Garden House is furnished with original pieces that have been lovingly restored whilst the two bedroom Amangalla Suite is ideal for families. There’s a large swimming pool and an ambient spa with candlelit recesses, tall ceilings and traditional archways. Centrally located, guests are encouraged to stroll out and explore Galle on foot. Visit the old Dutch Church, the spice warehouses; stop to pick up some lace, ebony and polished gems; watch kids play cricket; dodge bicycles and feast on street food. Walk further and visit the lighthouse, sea wall and ramparts before climbing higher to enjoy views across the city. Further afield, the surrounding area is captivating, there are beautiful beaches, temples, rice paddies and local villages.
filled with floor-to-ceiling glass, plus three sets of suites share a connecting door (ideal for families or couples travelling together). The Spa Suites are set within the resort’s coconut grove garden and offer blissful body treatments, whilst wow factor oozes from the 47 metre infinity pool with jaw-dropping views. The beach is on the doorstep, all 800 metres of blissful palm-lined sand. But be sure to break away from the sun lounger to explore Tangalle: watch the fishing fleet head off, pop into the crack-of-dawn fish market; visit the nearby turtle conservation project, explore jungle-edged villages and bird-watch in Bundala National Park. Make time to venture further afield to Yala National Park (two hours north-east of Tangalle) in search of the elusive leopard or to Uda Walawe National Park, home to around 400 elephants.
A two hour drive east of Amangalla along the south coast is the contemporary beachfront resort of Amanwella. Hidden in a coconut grove on the outskirts of Tangalle, this is coastal cool slap bang on one of Sri Lanka’s best beaches. Twenty seven ultra-modern sea-view suites are kitted out with open-plan bathrooms, his-and-her basins; plunge pools and private terraces. Interiors are fresh, calm and light-
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A RICH HERITAGE 1988
Amanpuri, Aman’s first resort, opens on the island of Phuket, Thailand. A secluded coconut grove becomes the setting for this treasured retreat
1998
Aman’s first property in North America, Amangani, launches near Jackson Hole, saddling the Grand Tetons and Snake River Valley
2005
Aman enters Sri Lanka, with two new resorts – Amangalla and Amanwella
2014
Aman Tokyo, which occupies the top six floors of the Otemachi Tower, becomes the brand’s 28th hotel
HUVAFEN FUSHI
Ten years since it first hit the Maldivian scene (and completely won us over), trendsetting Huvafen Fushi continues to wow. Every aspect of the rooms have been thought through in minute detail and are the most innovative they could possibly be. We love the endless list of high-tech gadgets and gizmos – twinkling fibre optic-lit infinity pools, a curated selection of music already installed on an iPod with Bose speakers in the bedroom, bathroom and on the deck, pre-programmed mood lighting, electronic curtains and waterfall showers to name just a few. Elsewhere, it brings us the
world’s first underwater spa, and Vinum, which holds the Maldives’ largest collection of Champagne methuselahs along with 6,000 bottles in a unique cellar cave under the ocean. Constantly pushing the boundaries in delivering the ultimate guest experiences, Per AQUUM’s Dream Calendar is renowned for collaborating with celebrated perfumers, musicians, artists and chefs. An infectious personality and irrepressible hedonism – both above and below the waterline – Huvafen Fushi is still raising the benchmark for indulgence.
CARRIER: Insider’s guide /
/ CARRIER: Insider’s guide
CITY / Steenberg, Cape Town
John Loubser A self-proclaimed foodie with a passion for terroir wine, John has a long and wonderful history at Steenberg – starting off as a Cellar Master in the vineyards, he is now General Manager.
Insider's
AFRICA Four iconic South African experiences conveyed by those who know them best...
Steenberg is truly a feast for the senses. What makes it so special is its fantastic position; a wine farm in a city is rather unique in itself as it offers all the benefits of a country retreat, but is conveniently close to all the city attractions. Over and above that, it is just 10 minutes from the sea – ideal for someone like me who loves spending time in the water, body boarding and surf-skiing with my kids. The soul of Steenberg is the pristine vineyards and the Cape’s oldest farm, and along with these I would have to include the Manor House, which is beautifully preserved in its original state dating all the way back to 1682, as my much-loved elements. Definite must-do’s include trying the tapas at Bistro Sixteen82 next to the crystal clear water features, experiencing the Fynbos on the natural vegetation terroir walk, Sunday lunch under the oaks at Catharina’s accompanied by live music, a cellar tour followed by wine and canapé tasting and don’t miss carols by candle light in the week leading up to Christmas! My favourite room in the hotel is The Khoi-Khoi Heritage Suite – it has a clever fusion of interior design and offers a tranquil escape from the high tempo of modern day living.
WINELANDS / Mont Rochelle, Franschhoek
RAIL / Rovos Rail
Suzanne Walford
Joe Mathala
Carrier’s Africa Product Manager revisited Mont Rochelle last autumn, following its reopening as the latest edition to Sir Richard Branson’s portfolio.
A charming and energetic Train Manager, Joe is one of the most entertaining and well-known characters at Rovos Rail.
My first reaction when I arrived was: this is amazing! Sir Richard has carried out a total transformation, inside and out, and has made this into a completely unrecognisable boutique hotel. I really like the mix of the original style of thatchroofed Cape Dutch house, with the more contemporary and lighter interiors. As you would expect from Virgin Limited Edition, little quirky touches have been added throughout, from a line of colourful ceramic dogs across the fireplace, to Andy Warhol-esque images of Mandela and fun felt sheep in Miko (the main restaurant named after its late proprietor – the first black vineyard owner in South Africa). The Franschhoek Uncorked Festival, now in its seventh year, takes place during the last weekend in September, where a number of wine farms open their doors for free tastings of the new vintage. At other times of the year, the Wine Tram tour is ideal – Mont Rochelle is one of its stops, and rightly so as the quality of the wine here is incredible and exceptionally good value. Wine tasting with resident sommelier, Enrico, in the lounge is not to be missed. Indulge even further with the unique Cape Malay spice spa treatment, where you choose three different spices to mix in with the mud – Luanne the Spa Manager is excellent.
SAFARI / Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
Karl Langdon Karl has been an integral part of the Ulusaba family since joining as a Ranger, being promoted to Head Ranger and finally offered the challenge to run the reserve along with wife Llané. The ultimate destination for spotting the Big Five, Ulusaba brings the thrill, adventure and safari traditions of Africa to life in a magical and exclusive setting. The only difference between the Rock, Cliff and Safari Lodges is location. It’s difficult for me to pick a favourite as each room is unique and has its own special charm, but it is best to split your stay between Rock and Safari Lodge to get the true sense of Ulusaba. Something you wouldn’t know unless you have been to experience it for yourself, is our true sense of family, love and passion – not only for our environment but for our people, guests and communities. Prince Silaule, a young boy in our neighbouring village, inspired me to start and continue with the work we do with Pride ‘n Purpose, our charitable arm. I would highly recommend visits to surrounding villages to see the impact of the initiatives first-hand. It’s also important to me that our guests not only spot the Big Five on game drives but get a truly holistic understanding of what nature has to offer. Other must-do’s include a bush picnic, star-gazing from the observatory and relaxing at the tree house viewing deck with binoculars, a good book and a glass of wine.
The only luxury rail company in the world that is privately owned, we started with one little tour and now operate eight journeys – we go as far as Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and all the way to Swakopmund in Namibia. My favourite itinerary is definitely the African Collage – a panoramic journey winding its way from Pretoria to Cape Town. The Cape Garden route has to offer some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. I would say that the best element of the trains is the Observation Car with the open-air balcony. We don’t travel fast, never more than 50 kilometres an hour, so guests can sit out there all day, sipping on tea or a good Chardonnay, and soak in the sights and smells of the country as it glides past. It really is special. A key part of each journey with us is the excursions that allow guests to experience as much as they can. This was of most significance to owner Mr Vos, when he set up Rovos Rail. He is fascinated with history, especially South Africa’s, and I know he didn’t want to just provide a mode of transportation – he wanted those onboard to get to know our country so each journey includes historical, cultural or safari experiences.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Mont Rochelle, Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, Rovos Rail, Steenberg
Discover more online... Read the full interviews with our Africa Insiders.
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CARRIER: Insider’s guide /
FORT ST. CATHERINE
BERMUDA: THE REINVENTION OF A MID-ATLANTIC MASTERPIECE The chosen setting for Shakespeare’s The Tempest and quoted in Edmund Waller’s poem, Battle of the Summer Islands, Bermuda has been known as paradise since the 17th Century. It is impossible not to be left breathless by this mid-Atlantic archipelago. The island is a symphony of colours from the glistening blue waters to the pastel coloured homes and not forgetting the renowned pink sands, it is clear to see why some 400,000 people holiday in Bermuda each year. Often mistaken to be part of the Caribbean, it is unknown to many that this rose tinted island is actually set in the Atlantic and perfect for a summer holiday. We recommend you visit the island in June to September, the air temperature is rising and the waters are getting warmer which means clear visibility for those who wish to dip below the surface and snorkel around the striking coral reefs.
THE CHOSEN SETTING FOR SHAKESPEARE’S THE TEMPEST AND QUOTED IN EDMUND WALLER’S POEM, BATTLE OF THE SUMMER ISLANDS, BERMUDA HAS BEEN KNOWN AS PARADISE SINCE THE 17TH CENTURY
If you caught an early morning flight from London, you could be dining on a private Bermudian beach by dinner. With just a seven hour flight, this island is closer than you think. Or, if you would prefer a few days of fast-paced city living before you enter a state of islandinduced serenity, why not team this holiday with a trip to New York or Boston. A short flight time of two and a half hours makes this possible and is becoming increasingly popular.
ROSEWOOD TUCKER’S POINT
WHERE TO STAY
ROYAL NAVAL DOCKYARD HOME TO THE FAMOUS Oscar-winning stars Michael Douglas (mother Diana Douglas is Bermudian) and Catherine Zeta-Jones asked decorator Stephen Ryan to create an island sanctuary in the parish of Warwick.
Elbow Beach Hotel Perfectly positioned directly on the pink sands of the eponymous beach, a calm swath of the South Shore greets the resort’s restaurants and pastel-toned beachfront cottages. First opening their doors in 1908, revel in the hotel’s history and take a look at iconic photographs in the library and lobby.
DEVIL’S HOLE FLATTS VILLAGE PINK SAND BEACHES
WHERE TO STAY
HAMILTON
HORSESHOE BAY
ELBOW BEACH HOTEL
HEAD TO ELBOW BEACH TO SWIM WITH SQUIRRELFISH AND SNAPPERS WHILST GLIDING PAST THE MASSES OF INTENSELY HUED REEFS 30 / Call our specialists on 0161 826 2581 or visit www.carrier.co.uk/magazine
CRYSTAL COVES
Rosewood Tucker’s Point Concealed from the island’s main port, this British-colonial style manor house is described as the ‘little known jewel’ of Bermuda. Dine in the hotel’s exquisite restaurant, The Point and be captivated by the extraordinary 80 foot long mural from the exclusive Sky Club of New York’s MetLife Building.
A pastel paradise awaits you on Horseshoe Bay beach – the most famous pink sand beach on the island. This natural rosy-huephenomenon is created from tiny grains of pink coral that have been washed up on the beach and blended with the sand.
Discovered in 1907 by two teenage boys when their cricket ball disappeared into a hole several yards from where they were playing – they had no idea they were about to enter a magnificent natural wonder. Visit a world of spectacular crystal formations shaped around azure blue water lakes, one of Bermuda’s true hidden treasures.
RUM PUNCHES HAMILTON
Neither shaken nor stirred, the secret is in the swizzle for Bermuda’s national drink – The Rum Swizzle, concocted using the ubiquitous Black Seal Rum, a splash of soda, lime juice and sugar. Sip the drink in the legendary Swizzle Inn – Bermuda’s oldest and certainly most famous pub.
A traditional city with a cosmopolitan edge, Hamilton is the heart of the island. Sit back in a century-old waterfront restaurant and watch the hustle and bustle of the city pass your eyes – keep an eye out for shorts and knee-high socks!
REEFS
FRONT STREET – HAMILTON
From the vivid coral reefs to a shipwreck shrouded in mist, explore the depths of the alluring Atlantic Ocean. Head to the beautiful public beach – Elbow Beach, to swim with Squirrelfish and Snappers whilst gliding past the masses of intensely hued reefs.
Front Street is the pulse of the city; this harbour front road contains rows of colourful stores, restaurants and bars. Many have overhanging verandas where you can casually linger over a rum cocktail whilst watching the boats sail across the water.
You must also try a Dark ‘n’ Stormy. Invented by sailors sometime in the very early 1900s, ginger beer – a well-known tonic for seasickness – was mixed with dark rum to create what can only be described as a “two great tastes that taste great together” moment.
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CARRIER: Insider’s guide /
/ CARRIER: Insider’s guide
6 HOTELS FOR...
ROMANCE
60 SECONDS WITH...
CLAUDIA WINKLEMAN Claudia started her journalism career as a travel writer, and has since contributed to numerous publications including Vogue, Tatler, The Sunday Times and The Independent. Co-host of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, she also presents The Great British Sewing Bee and Film programmes. Every Friday night listen to her on BBC Radio 2 hosting ‘The Arts Show with Claudia Winkleman’. Claudia is a huge supporter of Comic Relief, hosting Red Nose Day, Sport Relief and Let’s Dance for Sport Relief/Comic Relief. In 2015, she is presenting The People’s Strictly for BBC One, a ballroom dance competition featuring six inspirational but everyday heroes and heroines.
There are many different romantic milestones that warrant a special holiday. Finding the perfect setting is just as important when toasting your silver wedding anniversary as it is for the proposal. These are your most treasured moments, so allow Carrier to give you a destination master class with romance at the very heart.
1 A most decent proposal
Cap Maison St Lucia
DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN THREE WORDS: Lazy, hard-working, maternal. WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE GROWING UP? A marine biologist or an art historian. WHO INSPIRES YOU? My children. TELL US A SECRET ABOUT YOURSELF: I have a nap every single day. IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHO WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO BE STRANDED WITH (DEAD OR ALIVE)? My husband (and we'd squeeze the three children into a rucksack). WHERE IN THE WORLD DO YOU FEEL HAPPIEST AND WHY? I feel happiest in my home. I love pottering about, chatting to my family, baking inedible cakes and cuddling the small people. WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT AT WORK? Sleep, read, watch movies, plan holidays, eat sushi, chat with girlfriends, go to the theatre. IF YOU COULD SIT NEXT TO ANYONE ON A PLANE WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHY? Um, you hate me right? Husband or the kids. I'm allergic to famous people. Although if I had to pick someone I think Leonardo da Vinci would be a good bet.
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DURING YOUR CAREER AS A TRAVEL WRITER WHERE HAS BEEN THE MOST UNIQUE DESTINATION YOU HAVE VISITED? I think it would have to be Portofino. I can still remember every single thing about it (often a good sign), I can smell the sea, see the view, taste the extraordinary food. If I could only go to one place for the rest of my life it would be there. It is frozen in time without being twee. Amazing... WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE HOLIDAY HOTSPOT? Almost all of Italy is worth revisiting. Venice, Rome, Bologna, Sienna, the Amalfi Coast. Anywhere in Italy. I love the atmosphere, the food, the art and the women. NAME THREE ITEMS YOU WOULDN’T TRAVEL WITHOUT. A book, sun-cream, black eye liner.
Discover more online... Claudia Winkleman needed a break, and she found it with Carrier at Carlisle Bay in Antigua. Read her full review for Tatler magazine. “No decisions, no hassle, no stress. Carlisle Bay might be the most relaxing holiday we’ve ever had. The only decision you will have to make is to book it.”
Within this elegant boutique hotel and spa resort lies Rock Maison, a unique and private dining spot surrounded by cerulean blue sea. Built on a shoal below the Cliff at Cap Restaurant on the water’s edge, this hidden treasure allows couples to enjoy the ambience of the ocean, exquisite wine and fine dining in ultimate privacy – all the makings of a memorable evening. A highlight is the Champagne zip line, which allows drinks to glide to your table from the restaurant above via zip wire and basket. For a truly magical moment, arrange for something sparkly to be hidden in the basket and delivered at just the right time. We recommend sunset – the views are phenomenal from here.
2 Valentine’s Day
Baros Maldives North Malé Atoll Couples head to this scenic resort throughout the year, renowned for combining luxury living – in the form of overwater and beach villas – with the natural environment. February is in high demand, with the archipelago enjoying some of its best weather during this time. For a real show-stopping Valentine’s Day, there is no better place. From private barbecues on the beach to candlelit picnics in a palm grove, there are many intimate spots for romantic moments alone. The Spa offers four private suites for couple’s treatments, ideal for relaxing amidst the lush tropical gardens.
Carrier recommends… On this exclusive private island, Mr Shijah is renowned for creating the most personalised, romantic, Maldivian experiences. Set the scene for an intimate proposal by tying the ring to a shell and having it placed on the shoreline of an isolated sandbank.
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CARRIER: Insider’s guide /
/ CARRIER: Insider’s guide
4 Honeymoon
Maia Luxury Resort & Spa
3 The Big Day
Columbia Beach Resort Pissouri Bay, Cyprus Greek mythology has it that Aphrodite, the goddess of love, emerged from the waves near the shores surrounding this captivating hotel. We can see why she left the water – this award-winning, all suite resort is a breathtaking oasis that offers unrivalled views of the glistening Mediterranean Sea, beautifully landscaped gardens and unique architecture, modelled on a traditional Cypriot village. There is even a traditional tiny chapel just moments from the beach, complete with spectacular interior. Dedicated professionals on-site take care of all arrangements big and small, from food to fireworks, and promise special extras for the happy couple – including room upgrades, a candlelit dinner for two and wedding cake.
Mahé, Seychelles Many couples want to relax and rejuvenate after such a busy yet enjoyable period, and there is no better place to unwind and kick-start wedded bliss than at Maia. Newlyweds will love the all-villa residences – nestled into 30 acres of award-winning gardens, these secluded sanctuaries offer uninterrupted views of crystalline waters and bright white sand and come complete with butler service. Honeymooners can also look forward to a candlelight dinner at the Maia Spa and a couple’s massage with our compliments. A great way to celebrate as Mr & Mrs.
Carrier recommends… Enjoy magical Maia moments on your first trip as man and wife. The resort can help with any request, from preparing a rose-petal bath at twilight upon your return from the beach, to fine dining for two by the sea.
5 Just because…
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express & Belmond Hotel Cipriani Italy There need be no excuse for embarking upon the epitome of romantic journeys – gliding into Venice on the majestic Venice Simplon-OrientExpress. Travelling in exquisitely restored carriages, re-live the golden age of travel, with some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations providing a dreamlike backdrop. On board, you’ll enjoy indulgent afternoon tea, an elegant three-course dinner and breakfast with a view. Once in Venice, enjoy a stay at Belmond Hotel Cipriani. Standing in mature gardens, the hotel is located on an island just four minutes by private launch from Piazza San Marco and offers gourmet delights, an Olympic-sized pool and Casanova spa.
6 Special anniversary
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Riviera Maya, Mexico Whether you want to celebrate as a couple or renew your vows with family and friends, this idyllically poised resort welcomes you to the Riviera Maya with open arms. Located on a pristine expanse of sand, fringed by the Yucatan jungle on one side and the clear blue Caribbean Sea on the other, this all-suite hotel does not disappoint in terms of that special setting. Boasting an exemplary all-inclusive option, dining here promises memorable meals in beautiful spaces, with acclaimed chefs from around the world. Adult-only Grand Class suites provide the ultimate in coveted privacy, complete with hot tubs and stellar sea views. Couples can enjoy time in the exquisite spa set in the lush jungle and complete with hydrotherapy rituals.
Discover more online... Tsara Lawrence travelled with Carrier on this iconic journey, read her review.
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SECTION COPY CARRIER: Insider’s GOESguide HERE/ /
/ CARRIER: Insider’s guide Clockwise from left: Amanyara bar terrace, shoreline, ocean cove dining, coral reef diving, Amanyara Pavilion
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Sky high... These pristine islands are now even easier to reach. British Airways now flies to Providenciales via Antigua – which means guests can board an early morning flight from London and touch down on the glistening archipelago in time to enjoy one of the highly anticipated sunsets. To truly appreciate what the Caribbean has to offer, we suggest combining these two serene islands on a twin centre break. The airline has also announced a second flight due to commence in October 2015.
It’s all about...
Turks & Caicos This enticing archipelago is now within easy reach thanks to new flights with British Airways. Discover pristine Caribbean perfection at Amanyara. An enchanting and virtually unspoilt Caribbean enclave, the Turks & Caicos islands are an escapist’s paradise. A string of over 40 coral atolls each encircled by brilliant white sands which fuse with warm turquoise waters create a diver’s bliss. Admire some of the world’s largest coral reefs, with over 250 miles to explore whilst gliding amongst turtles and delicate seahorses.
Thirty eight timber-shingled guest pavilions are nestled amongst luscious green foliage, dotted along the coast. Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, the Belgian architect merged indoor and outdoor spaces by using floor-to-ceiling sliding-glass doors that make it possible to open the pavilion on three sides, allowing wonderful views of the ocean and beyond.
With only eight of the breathtakingly pretty cays inhabited, this is a true chance to discover an abundance of untouched natural beauty. Charter a sailing boat for the day and hop from island to island – the perfect opportunity to distinguish their distinct personalities and the unique experiences on offer at each.
Set on icing sugar sands adjacent to the pristine reefs of Northwest Point Marine National Park, Amanyara is a premier destination for beach and watersports enthusiasts. Try your hand at paddle boarding or learn more about the unparalleled marine environment of the Turks & Caicos islands in the National Discovery Centre.
Arrive on Providenciales and stay in one of the most exclusive resorts in the Caribbean – Amanyara. Derived from the Sanskrit word aman meaning ‘peace’ and yara meaning ‘place’ – this secluded hotel is hidden away on the western shore; a ‘peaceful place’ indeed.
The resort boasts a mouth-watering menu which blends classic Asian and modern Mediterranean dishes. Enjoy these specialities dining al fresco. Alternatively, sample the island’s culinary delights and head to Lower Bight Road on a Thursday evening for the
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Grace Bay Club Renowned as Providenciale’s first luxury resort, Grace Bay Club still retains its original charm. There is something for everyone here – children enjoy the Very Important Kids (VIK) programme and exploring ‘Kids Town’, whilst older guests can indulge in a heavenly cocktail at Infiniti Bar – reportedly the longest bar in the Caribbean stretching 90 feet across the Grace Bay Club beach. It is easy to see why the island’s first ever five-star hotel continues to have all-round appeal.
weekly Fish Fry. Mingle with the locals and enjoy fresh seafood, rum punch and live music and entertainment.
CARRIER RECOMMENDS: Visit the famous Crackpot Kitchen. The set for a popular local TV cooking show, it has now been transformed into an impressive restaurant which serves an array of authentic Turks & Caicos dishes. Satisfy your sweet-tooth and indulge in a selection of creative homemade ice creams, coffees and Champagne at Melt – a creative dessert bar with a vibrant atmosphere to entertain both children and adults.
Parrot Cay by COMO Set on its own private island, this is a Caribbean hideaway par excellence. Experts from around the world work hand-in-hand with the award-winning COMO Shambhala Retreat to create a haven for holistic rejuvenation. Relax on the mile-long stretch of supremely beautiful beach and enjoy views of the picturesque dunes and remarkably white sand. Place a little flag in the ground near your sun lounger and a member of staff will come to take your drinks order. This is exclusive relaxation epitomised.
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/ CARRIER: Style guide
SUNSPEL POLO SHIRT Simply put, Sunspel make the very best polo shirts, and I usually take about half a dozen navy blue shirts with me when I go on a road trip in the US – which is every year!
ORLEBAR BROWN SWIMMING SHORTS
You can wear these when you drive, as you walk into a hotel lobby, by the pool, even at dinner. They are the epitome of smart casual.
MIAMI STYLE Renowned for its laid back vibe and Art Deco chic, this is a city abuzz with fun and fashion, culture and design. Dylan Jones, Editor of GQ, recently travelled to Miami with Carrier. This is his curated South Beach style selection…
RICHARD JAMES BLAZER
One of the very best Savile Row tailors, they make the very best blue jackets (as seen on model, left), and I always take one with me.
OLIVER PEOPLE’S SUNGLASSES
I’ve been wearing this brand for years. In fact, I like their sunglasses so much that I recently asked them to make me some clear reading glasses, too.
DYLAN JONES / “SOUTH BEACH IS SO SLICK, IT FEELS LIKE IT’S SPENT TEN YEARS IN POSTPRODUCTION”
Dylan Jones is the award-winning Editor of GQ, esteemed author and Chairman of London Collections: Men. Dylan studied at Chelsea School of Art and then St. Martin’s School of Art and in June 2013 was awarded an OBE for services to publishing and the fashion industry. He has written and published several books, including the best-selling biography Jim Morrison: Dark Star and the much-translated iPod, Therefore I Am and Mr. Jones’ Rules. Dylan was also nearly a member of the Buzzcocks!
Discover more online... Read the full article ‘City of Magic’ by Dylan Jones for GQ magazine.
CONVERSE JACK PURCELL SHOES
On holiday you need shoes that can be worn by the pool or in the car and these are perfect. They are chic, but functional, cool but not too annoyingly trendy.
THE SETAI, MIAMI BEACH
An intimate oasis of tranquility amidst the energy of South Beach and renowned for excellent service, the hotel has introduced the innovative ALICE (A Life Improving Customer Service) app. The app allows guests to remotely request in-room dining, spa services, their car from valet, lunch by the pool or beach, dining reservations and much more – from their hand-held or desktop device, whether you are on or off property.
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/ CARRIER: Destination focus
CARRIER: Destination focus /
SKY HIGH: BRITISH AIRWAYS RETURNS TO MALAYSIA In response to strong customer demand, British Airways will be stepping up their Far Eastern presence this summer as they resume direct flights from London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur from 27 May 2015.
Fourteen years since British Airways last flew to the Malaysian capital, the service from Terminal 5 will mean 12 additional First class seats and 48 in Club World daily to the country.
restorative properties of tea form the basis of revivifying treatments at the spa. Top tip: Explore the Jim Thompson Mystery Trail, a complimentary trek inspired by the disappearance of Jim Thompson, an American architect and former member of the early CIA.
PANGKOR LAUT RESORT Located in the straits of Malacca, this resort boasts an entire tropical island all to itself. Villas are set on the beachfront, tucked into the hillside, or the most striking of all – those perched on stilts above the water. Choose to uncover the fascinating insights of a two million year old rainforest with the resident naturalist or opt to unwind on Emerald Bay – ranked among the world’s best beaches. In the evenings, stroll across the wooden walkway past lapping waters to Uncle Lim’s Kitchen. The 80 year old namesake has been at Pangkor Laut since its opening and still enjoys the boat ride from the resort every morning to Pangkor Island to select fresh ingredients for the day. The roof of the restaurant resembles an open umbrella and you can catch glimpses of fishing boats chugging past as the sun sets. Top tip: Experience the resort’s four-acre spa haven with treatments inspired by the healing therapies of the Asian region. Arrive early to enjoy the 45 minute pre-treatment bath ritual that is an experience unto itself.
Clockwise from left: Picnic experience at Cameron Highlands Resort, The Orchid Conservatory at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Emerald Bay, Sea Villas at Pangkor Laut Resort
Malaysia A LAND OF GENTEEL TRADITIONS AND NOSTALGIA Teeming cities, glittering bays and dense mangroves; a stay in Malaysia stirs and soothes the senses in equal measure. Colonial influence runs deep within the roots of Malaysia’s history, and nowhere more so than at YTL Hotels’ coveted properties. We believe their offering takes in the best of what this vibrant and diverse country has to offer. Unwind in the grand colonial décor at a historic gem in the centre of Kuala Lumpur; head off to cooler climes and the tranquil tea plantations in the highlands. Beach hedonists can easily sail across to a private island.
THE MAJESTIC HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR Following years of development, most will assume Kuala Lumpur’s historical landmarks have faded into the shadows of the giant
Petronas Towers, yet this property carefully preserves its heritage. The elegant building, which dates back to the 1930s, is situated on the historic road of Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin and has been beautifully restored to its former glory. Conjuring memories of the halcyon days of British Malaya, it stands as an art deco monument and icon of Malaysia’s golden era. Designed to mimic the art nouveau style of Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s famous Willow Tearooms of Scotland, The Majestic Spa offers treatments including the intriguingly named ‘Queen Victoria’s Lavender’ and ‘English Afternoon Tea’, homage to the many British expatriates who once called this place home. Top tip: For some gentlemanly pampering, head to The Smoke House for the ‘Scotch and
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Shave’ treatment by renowned world leaders Truefitt & Hill.
CAMERON HIGHLANDS RESORT Famed for its ‘Trails, Tales and Traditions’ tagline, this quaint resort boasts a grand ambience and is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. In the genteel and tranquil surrounds of tea plantations, rose gardens and strawberry patches, nostalgia and English custom is the order of the day. A cool and refreshing 1500 metres above sea level, on the edge of a bluff and with commanding views of the undulating hills, the Boh Tea Plantation is the ideal spot for a sumptuous picnic spread. Back at the hotel, the time-honoured tradition of afternoon tea has become a daily ritual at the Jim Thompson Tea Room, whilst the
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THE DATAI LANGKAWI Only a short one hour flight away from Kuala Lumpur, the famed ancient rainforests, inviting crystalline waters and pristine beaches of Langkawi also beckon. Over on the island, meet Malaysia’s answer to Sir David Attenborough at The Datai – where all manner of wildlife is truly on your doorstep. Trek through centuries-old jungle on a nature walk with renowned naturalist Irshad Mobarak (pictured), whose illustrious career spans over 25 years. A guide’s knowledge is paramount to any experience and Irshad does not disappoint, having spent his childhood exploring the wilderness with his father, running with Orang Asli children through the forests and picking up the skills of indigenous tribes. Walking among ancient meranti and keruing trees, inhaling the spicy aroma of a crushed ginger leaf, listening to the mysterious laughter of a great hornbill and watching a family of dusky leaf monkeys
peek from the rainforest foliage are just some of the encounters to experience with Irshad. The resort itself is thoughtfully orchestrated; the journey from suites with canopy views from private balconies, to stand-alone villas in the heart of the jungle, or the newest offering – contemporary Beach Villas – all the way to the half-moon crescent of white sand beach, is one of discovery. Did you know: Not even a year old, The Els Club Teluk Datai, redesigned by four-time Major Champion Ernie Els and his team, has already earned a reputation as one of the most scenic of Asia’s golfing venues and was awarded prestigious golf awards within weeks of its opening.
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/ CARRIER: Destination focus
A ROOM WITH A...
view
D-Hotel Maris, Turkey
Poised on the top of a soaring cliff with a breathtaking landscape of magnificent pine forests, small islands, volcanic mountain ranges and the glistening waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, D-Hotel Maris offers a sensational vision of the Datça Peninsula. The Dogus Group set about renovating the hotel in 2011 and were under strict instruction that the land where they were building – a vast, untouched nature reserve – should not be changed. As a result, they have transformed the resort into an exquisite design space offering exotic elements of the East and modernity of the West. The original walls of the resort are finished with richly hued woods, refined marble surfaces and subtle chrome accents; D-Hotel Maris was designed as a big-scale boutique hotel with sublime attention to detail. The unique location enabled the designers to create distinctive indoor and outdoor spaces. Five beaches with brilliant white sand – imported annually from Egypt – surround the resort. Each have individual concepts such as the lively Bay beach, which has DJ performances in the afternoon, to the technology-forbidden Silence beach for guests who want complete serenity. Paça, the hotel’s 100 foot sailing yacht is also available to guests who would like to island hop throughout the day.
THE ARRIVAL EXPERIENCE Let Carrier Concierge arrange for the hotel’s private helicopter to collect you from either of the two Turkish airports. Take in the spectacular aerial views of the D-Hotel as you hover across the clear waters on approach to this magnificent resort.
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/ CARRIER: Destination focus
CARRIER: Destination focus /
and palm green accents giving a fresh colour pop. Once again, the highlight was the outdoor terrace space; the pièce de résistance is the plunge pool with views directly over the cove – surely the ultimate luxury on Barbados where oceanfront private pools are a rarity.
Top to bottom: Saint Peter’s Bay beach & master bedroom, Sandy Lane terrace, the beach at Cobbler’s Cove.
Chosen by... Maxine Roberts, Head of Marketing
Barbados “I’ve just found another bathroom” said the other half on day two of our stay, giving you some idea of the size of our three bedroomed ‘home’ at Saint Peter’s Bay Luxury Resort & Residences. We stayed in Penthouse 505 but the basic footprint of each residence is the same, so this space was not an exception to the rule. The accommodation here feels homely and the grounds feel decidedly less of a resort than they look on their official photographs. As the newest of our featured Barbados properties, the décor is impeccable. The best feature is the terrace, leading upstairs to a rooftop complete with sunbeds and Jacuzzi. The terrace has a convenient lift directly down to the beachfront area, where you will also find a swimming pool and the hub of the resort, the Gazebo, serving drinks and light meals throughout the day. The Gazebo is the domain
of Gilbert, an older, humble gentleman with a megawatt smile, who I suspect every guest here secretly loves. On our second night, we indulged in a private dinner. One of the chefs visited us in advance to discuss our preferences, with the finishing touches of the three courses later prepared in our apartment and served on the candlelit terrace. It was the best meal of our holiday. Saint Peter’s Bay is quietly attracting quite the A-List crowd (apparently I was following in Will Smith and Robin van Persie’s footsteps) and it’s easy to see why; it’s luxurious but understated and offers bags of space. You will also not find better value for money accommodation at this level on the island. Our home for the next two nights was Cobbler’s Cove, next door to Saint Peter’s Bay but a world apart. This property is the English colonial contrast to their neighbour’s contemporary American aesthetic. English traditions such as afternoon tea endure. Colleton is one of two suites in the original Great House, and I was pleasantly surprised by it. Traditional, yes, but it felt characterful not chintzy, with white-washed walls and shutters,
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Cobbler’s Cove is convivial. The Great House hosts a central bar which opens out onto the pool deck and is the setting for the manager’s cocktail party every Tuesday (formal invitations are left in your room); the oceanfront restaurant Camelot – helmed by Chef Michael Harrison, who trained under Michel Roux Jnr – is always busy. By contrast, the gardens are peaceful and a source of great pride to the hotel. Green monkeys travel along the coast through the tree canopies, arriving at Cobbler’s Cove around 4pm, coincidently the same time that afternoon tea is served daily back at the Great House. I really enjoyed staying in St Peters for a change from St James. Our favourite spots nearby are Mullins Beach Bar – great live bands on a Sunday – and, further up the coast, The Fish Pot, for delicious seafood lunch platters. On recommendation from Geoff Farmer, the genial General Manager at Saint Peter’s Bay, we also headed to Animal Flower Cave on the northern tip of the island. Here, we descended down steps into the caves where the sea washes in creating natural rock pools in which to swim; there are magnificent views of the Atlantic beyond. We also visited St Nicholas Abbey, which if you haven’t before you really should. The great house is a wonderfully preserved Jacobean mansion and the grounds are beautiful.
Back to the west coast and our last night was spent, where else, but Sandy Lane, where the VIP treatment is in full flow from the moment you arrive. A congregation is ready to greet your car, drinks and cold towels are proferred, porters gather the luggage and the General Manager Randie Wilkie welcomes you in person – a nice touch – before you are whisked to your room for an easy check-in.
Clockwise from below: Restaurant terrace at Lone Star & exterior, colourful Bajan chattel house, view from within Animal Flower Cave, St Nicholas Abbey.
I stayed in a Luxury Oceanfront Room and here we have another huge bed, a remote control that manages TV, lighting and drapes and a balcony overlooking the most paparazzi-observed stretch of coastline in the world… it’s all about the beach at Sandy Lane. Every guest is allocated their own space on the beach for the duration of their stay to avoid any sunbed wrangles – as long as you get the spot you want, that is. I challenge you to want something for breakfast that Sandy Lane doesn’t serve. The spread at Bajan Blue is phenomenal; it took me ten minutes to walk around it all, never mind actually decide what to eat. Quite an unbelievable operation. Two things struck me when I was sitting at Bajan Blue: 1. Numerous times I noticed people walking around having rather serious conversations on their mobiles or Skyping; this is a place of relaxation for people who cannot necessarily switch off; and 2. the staff were the warmest of the three hotels I stayed at. They struck the balance perfectly between good service and friendly conversation. Sandy Lane has the kudos and the standards, but doesn’t stand on ceremony.
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LONE STAR
To say that Lone Star has opened rooms is rather understating things; designed by Lynn Pemberton, these are arguably some of the most stylish rooms on the west coast and they are practically set on the beach. They offer a boutique hotel experience alongside the famous Lone Star restaurant and bar, making it unique on the island. There are just six rooms in all, although they can be configured in a mind-boggling array to create larger suites or an entire beach house; all are named after vintage cars, a reference to Lone Star’s former life as a 1940s garage. Guests are not left to their own devices; the lovely Belinda acts as their concierge whilst the hotel is fully staffed and offers a complimentary beach service for residents. The restaurant continues to be one of Barbados’ hotspots – it was fully booked when we dined there on Thursday night - and there is no denying the buzz of the place. If stylish beachfront living with a sociable twist is up your street, Lone Star is it.
Discover more online... Read Maxine’s full review.
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CARRIER: Destination focus /
traditional Thai décor and cutting edge art. Striking, bold and laced with historic detail, the resort was designed by architect Bill Bensley, known for infusing properties with soul and surprises. At Coqoon Spa, Bensley takes the concept of being cocooned rather literally with the Nest, an impressive wicker structure hung from a giant banyan tree. At sunrise, for a spiritual start to the day, cycle down to the local 200 year old temple and join the monks as they perform their morning rituals. At sunset, head to the markets to discover the hubs as daylight dims and vendors, farmers and local chefs converge under city lights. For those looking to pick up a new skill, join Moo’s Kitchen cooking classes to learn about the complex interplay of the five fundamental taste senses of Thai cuisine or join a tropical floral art lesson with specially trained florists at the dedicated flower gallery.
Clockwise from left: Bangkok skyline, beach at Indigo Pearl, One Bedroom Pool Villa Plunge Pool at Conrad Koh Samui, Indigo Pearl lobby
Kick back on Koh Samui
Thailand FROM A TEEMING CONCRETE JUNGLE TO EXOTIC REAL LIFE RAINFOREST
Discover more online... Carrier interviews owner Wichit Na-Ranong’s daughter, Khun Moo, who worked closely with Bill Bensley in the artistic creation of Indigo Pearl.
Bustling Bangkok A city break in Bangkok is an ideal gateway to exotic southeast Asia – the intoxicating mix of both past and present is most evident at The Peninsula Bangkok. The best way to explore is meandering through the bustling city arteries on one of the hotel’s iconic green tuk tuks, or a cruise along Chao Phraya River in a beautifully restored rice barge, passing the grand palaces and temples that line the banks. Courtesy of the ‘W’ design of the building, all rooms here have breathtaking views of this working river and the city beyond. Get under the skin of Thai culture, lifestyle, cuisine, art and history at The Peninsula Academy, which offers a range of eclectic experiences including Senses of Thainess to Muay Thai Kickboxing.
The island of Samui, just one hour’s flight from Bangkok, is the perfect destination for some R&R. Conrad Koh Samui in particular is gloriously isolated on the south west coast. Spread over 25 acres of lush coconut plantations, individual accommodations perch on stilts against a steep hillside, a coveted vantage point from which to take in uninterrupted views of the Gulf of Thailand, the five fabled outlying islands and the mainland beyond. Perched high above the resort, Aura Lounge offers the best views. Indulge your adventurous side with an elephant-trek through the lush jungles, zip-line through the rainforest canopy, or make the most of the onsite diving and sailing booking centre. Every Wednesday and Friday, enjoy the excitement of the live fire dance show at Azure Bar & Grill.
Piquant Phuket If you’re looking for something decidedly different from the usual Asian beach resort, head to the northern shore of Phuket, where the Indigo Pearl beckons. Set against a backdrop of dense rainforest filled with rare wildlife, the resort is a unique piece of art. For owner Wichit Na-Ranong, the hotel is a tribute to Phuket’s tin mining history and his family’s role in that once-flourishing trade. The metal is punctuated throughout the hotel; alluringly mixed with Terms & Conditions
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All holidays are subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. All information correct at time of going to print – Spring 2015. Please speak to our specialists for up-to-date information, prices and special offers for any of the properties or itineraries featured in the magazine.
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