Archive for the ‘luxury travel’ Category

The Top Eco-Resorts from around the World

Awasi Patagonia

Awasi Patagonia

Imagine yourself cocooned in a natural paradise. A pristine, untouched landscape stretches out before you; fresh, clean air invigorates your senses; beautiful birdsong awakens you every morning; each day is filled with authentic safari experiences or just pure relaxation. All this, and you can still contribute to sustainable environmental practices and do your bit to empower local communities.

Sounds like a dream come true?

Say hello to the Enchanting Top 10 resorts that exist in harmony with their local environment. Secluded, exclusive, and deliciously plush, these resorts spell perfect vacations for nature enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike. Come and live the experience!

SOUTH AMERICA

Tierra Chiloé

The uniquely designed Tierra Chiloé occupies pride of place in the mysterious Chiloé archipelago, offering breathtaking views of the islands from its 12 exclusive rooms. The hotel has been built to optimize the use of renewable resources, and benefit the local community through employment opportunities and low-impact tourism, while offering every conceivable luxury on your trip to Chile. Enjoy leisurely boat rides through tranquil waterways, see a host of wildlife, and learn about local legends and customs from the expert Chilean staff.

Awasi Patagonia

To the nature enthusiast, it would seem that Awasi Patagonia was built around nature rather than being surrounded by it. Glorious views of the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile await at your exclusive, private villa at Awasi Patagonia. Each villa is fashioned after traditional Patagonian outposts that are built on raised stilts. Spaciously constructed with local material, this is your ticket to luxurious living in wild Patagonia. Venture into the vastness with your personal guide, go off the beaten path to observe animals in their natural environ, and enjoy the serenity on your private tour of Chile.

Chile - Rapa Nui.jpg

Explora Rapa Nui

Explora Rapa Nui

Untouched nature and mysteries of a lost civilization await you in the midst of the Pacific. Explora Rapa Nui is a harmonious blend of luxurious comfort, modern architecture and ecological consideration. Built with the philosophy of paying tribute to the past, appreciating the present and paving the way for a better future, the resort offers guests a chance to interact with raw nature and contribute towards  conserving nature and the local community at the same time.  There is something for anyone who wants to experience adventure tours in Chile – from excellent opportunities for hiking, to cycling and snorkeling. Witness the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Moai statues that keep a silent vigil over this remote and carefully conserved island.

ASIA

Six Senses Koh Yao Noi

Rustic, tranquil and utterly luxurious, all 56 villas at Six Senses Koh Yao Noi in Thailand have been built amid a former rubber plantation. Today, the plantation is gone, but several of the glorious, giant trees remain. The vast gardens and landscape are specifically designed to preserve untouched native flora and fauna, and there is a dedicated sustainability policy for the entire resort focusing on community development and careful use of resources. Whether you go exploring in the adjoining mango grove, snorkeling in the cobalt ocean or simply lounge in your private pool ensconced in lush greenery, incredible experiences await you.

Four Season Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai

Four Seasons Tented Camp

Four Seasons Tented Camp, Chiang Rai

When it comes a secluded natural paradise, far away from the sea of humanity, Four Seasons Tented Camp in Chiang Rai, Thailand, does not disappoint. From handcrafted furnishings to private encounters with friendly elephants and nature-inspired treatments in an open-air spa, the property offers many unique experiences. Spacious and luxurious tents offer every modern comfort, while the digital detox of TV and radio ensures complete peace and quiet, punctuated only by the harmonious sounds of the forest. The tents are specifically designed for active adults with a penchant for adventure.

INDIA

Treehouse Hideaway

Live the real Jungle Book experience perched high above the treetops inside a popular tiger reserve – Bandhavgarh National Park in India. Spread over a large forested estate, Treehouse Hideaway strikes the perfect balance between rustic-chic and luxury, with high exposed beams framing the ceilings and plush furnishings to keep you comfortable. Each hideaway is built locally sourced materials that blend in effortlessly with the natural surroundings, quite literally placing you in the lap of nature. All eight stilted rooms offer superb views of the landscape with plenty of wildlife to keep you company.Watch animals roam freely in the wild from your vantage point atop the machaan (platform).

Grassroots Wayanad (21)

Grassroots Wayanad

Grassroots Wayanad

From your arrival at the foothills of the Vythiri Range in Kerala until your departure Grassroots in Wayanad will have you enchanted! Situated within a coffee plantation, each luxurious Swiss tent offers magical views of the tranquil landscape. Experience a healthy lifestyle vacation with delicious cuisine made from fresh, local produce while you immerse yourself in nature. Your days will pass in a flurry of activity as you hike, trek or wander through the verdant forests, or pop into the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary nearby. Prepare to immerse yourself in nature during your visit to Kerala and return truly relaxed and rejuvenated.

AFRICA

The Highlands

Exclusive, remote and utterly luxurious, The Highlands easily redefines the typical Ngorongoro experience in Tanzania. Each of the eight spacious tented camps are fitted with floor to ceiling bay windows that open up to spectacular views of diverse wildlife species roaming freely. The camp uses state-of-the-art technology, including solar power and rainwater harvesting, to minimize its footprint and invest in a conservation economy that sustains nature and people alike. From exciting game drives, hikes through cattle trails in the forested mountains, excursions to see pink flamingoes at the soda lake and visits to local communities, there are many options when you travel to Ngorongoro Crater. Don’t miss the daily gossip from the resident researcher about the local lions’ latest relationship dramas.

Enchanting Travels - Tanzania Tours - Ngorongoro - The Highlands - Dome exterior

Nkwichi Lodge

The pristine sandy beaches on the shores of the vast Lake Malawi in Mozambique, are a luxury unto themselves. Add to that the eco-friendly comfort of Nkwichi Lodge – a hidden paradise tucked far away from the madding crowd, and you have your perfect vacation. Nkwichi partners with the Manda Wilderness Project to help local communities with environmental conservation and is dedicated to conserving the pristine shores of the lake and its surrounding wilderness. Enjoy true tranquility by the Mozambican lakeshore as you stay in uniquely designed accommodation. For something extra special, settle into the unique Star Bed set on a secluded beach.

Camp Kalahari, Uncharted Africa

Camp Kalahari

Camp Kalahari

Set by the mysterious and timeless Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Camp Kalahari offers an ideal blend of adventure and comfort. Designed in the safari camp style of yore with a blend of colonial and traditional furnishings, this bush camp prides itself on its sensitive treatment towards its surroundings. The eco-friendly camp has initiated a long-term conservation project to protect the wetlands, its biodiversity, and local livelihoods. During the wet seasons, its wildlife sightings are aplenty what with huge herds of zebra and wildebeest making their way through the salt pans and predators on the prowl. The surrounding area receives regular visits from curious meerkats who are determined to keep you company.

If you’re seeking your own eco-adventure abroad, check out Enchanting Travels where they’ll help you create a private and beautifully bespoke trip and…

Unearth the magic of these top 10 eco hotels for yourself because the land needs you, and you need the land.

Sri Lanka’s Latest Villa Rentals

On Houses

A view from On Houses Weligama, Sri Lanka

Lately, Sri Lanka is really making the travel aficionado rounds as the next hot destination. As such, we came across On Houses Weligama, located on the beautiful south coast of Sri Lanka, and wanted to let our readers know about these luxury villa rentals. On Houses, Weligama is in a quiet and secluded bay five minutes away from Weligama Bay. With its four houses built into the hillside and each with uninterrupted ocean views and lush tropical gardens, On Houses, Weligama is the newest addition to the growing portfolio of luxury accommodation and travel options now available in Sri Lanka. 

Imagine awakening every morning on a tropical island, rich in culture and history, unrivaled in its natural beauty, facing the white sands and clear waters of the Indian Ocean, in a home that represents refined taste and tropical modern luxury.

On Houses

Take in the views of the ocean from your own private infinity pool

On Houses can be rented out as whole villa rentals, whether only 1 or all 5 bedrooms are being occupied. Each On House rental comes with an in house highly trained chef, as well as housekeeper, waiter, shared gardeners, pool attendant, and security.

Rental of an On House can be best booked and paid for through a variety of property rental services, such as Airbnb, Trip Advisor, Booking.com, Expedia, Vacation Rentals, and others.

On Houses

A room with a view…

Features of the On House include:

  • 5 en-suite bedrooms, each with direct ocean facing views
  • Handcrafted high quality finishes throughout
  • Private infinity edge pool with underwater music speakers
  • Generous terraces and verandahs
  • Spacious living and dining areas
  • Outdoor dining pavilion
  • Fully furnished
  • Private gym/ massage room
  • Enclosed garage
  • Separate two-bedroom staff quarters and laundry
  • Exquisite landscaping
  • On site management, including security, gardening, and maintenance
  • ON House rental program available through ON House management

 

 

A Modern Safari Fit for a King or Queen

The latest Netflix series on our minds (and ‘recently watched’ lists) has without a doubt renewed an interest in the royals and their connection to Africa. andBeyond has created a safari to give guests a taste of the royal treatment…

Kenya and The Crown

cottars-1920s-camp

Cottars 1920s Camp

Home of the classic safari, Kenya has an undeniable connection to Britain’s colonial era with its historical aura of elegance and grandeur. In fact, as documented in the recent television series, it was in Kenya that Queen Elizabeth first received the news of the death of her father, King George, and of her ascension to the throne. Inspired by this and the many other connections between the royal family and this former colonial stronghold, andBeyond has created a modern safari fit for a queen called Kenya and the Crown.

kenya-safari-masai-mara-tours

Lunch with the Masai Mara

This grand itinerary visits places made famous by explorers and royals of old, including special touches like vintage vehicles, which will take the intrepid traveler on a journey far back in time.  andBeyond, one of the world’s leading luxury experiential travel companies, has designed personalized high-end tours in 15 countries in Africa, five in Asia, and four in South America. The company also owns and operates 31 extraordinary safari lodges and camps, which positively impact more than 9 million acres of wildlife land . Taking exceptional care of its guests in order to make a difference; its commitment to sustainable responsible travel, conservation and community empowerment has been globally recognized with multiple awards over the years.

kenya-masai-safari-tours-migration

A Kenyan Migration Adventure

Highlights of the itinerary:

  • Stay in the famous Norfolk Hotel in Nairobi, host to characters such as Theodore Roosevelt on his epic 1909 safari Walk in the footsteps of legends on an historical tour of Nairobi, visiting sites such as the Railway Museum and Karen Blixen’s home.
  • Relax in the lovingly maintained colonial mansion of Giraffe Manor.
  • Experience the wilderness of Tsavo from the luxury private camp inspired by none other than the honorable Denys Finch-Hatton of ‘Out of Africa’ fame.
  • Feel the thrill of walking where the Tsavo man-eating lions once roamed.
  • Ride in a Vintage 1928 International SS motor Truck as driven by Robert Redford in the film ‘Out of Africa.’
  • Explore the Masai Mara celebrating the era of classic luxury at Cottar’s 1920 which is reminiscent of the 1920s.
  • Enjoy a Heliflip to Lake Rutundu for a champagne breakfast where Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton.
  • The obviously excellent photographic opportunities throughout this historical journey.
luxury-africa-safrai-kenya-lewa-downs

The luxurious accommodations of Lewa Downs

Rates:

  • January 1, 2017 – December 31, 2017    
  • Starting from $19,551 USD per person sharing
  • 10 Days / 9 Nights

Make the Most of the Adventure:

Guests can add to this Kenyan adventure by hopping across the border to Uganda, putting them within reach of the once-in-a-lifetime experience of tracking Gorillas and taking them to the end of the ‘Lunatic Line’ in Kampala.

Complement the Northern section by spending a few nights on Lake Victoria – andBeyond’s travel experts can tailor-make the itinerary.

Specially Created for:

  • History buffs
  • Romance
  • Wildlife enthusiasts
  • Avid photographers

A Luxurious Kenyan Safari fit for a King or Queen

Honduras: An Eco-Resort’s Latest Organic Offering

The Lodge at Pico Bonito’s New Organic Spa and More…

Honduras Eco Hotel

Dinner at The Lodge at Pico Bonito (c) Small Luxury Hotels of the World

We’re back from the holidays and we’re already ready to plan our next vacation. You too? If getting back to the grind is inspiring daydreams of ditching it all for a trip away from it all, we have a great suggestion for you…

The majestic jungles of Honduras!

Because really… there’s nothing like being in the middle of the glorious jungle filled with over 40 different types of tropical butterflies, toucans, motmots, and miles of private trails through canyons, waterfalls, and swimming holes. If that’s not reason enough, how about a mystical Temazcal (Mayan sauna) in the center of the jungle to get your trip – and your soul – steered in the right direction?

The Pool at Pico Bonito

The Pool at Pico Bonito (c) Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Temazcal, which comes from the Nahuatl Word temacalli, means ‘house of heat.’ Originating in the pre-Hispanic indigenous culture in Mesoamerica, legend has it that the dome shape of the steam house represents Mother Earth’s womb, and those taking part in a Temazcal are said to experience a rebirth.

Honduras’ top eco-resort, The Lodge at Pico Bonito, is inviting travelers to abandon the stresses of home, ignite a new outlook on life, and increase circulation of the senses with their new organic spa offerings and we think it sounds like an excellent idea. It’s also been named one of the top 50 eco-lodges by National Geographic Traveler.

Honduras Eco Resort Lodge Pico Bonito

The Lodge at Pico Bonita’s Standard Room in the Center of the Jungle

The new outdoor spa, set to debut on January 15th, will have three circular cabins on stilts to maintain balance and harmony with the natural energies of the environment (one cabin for individual massage, one cabin for couples massage, one cabin with a Vichy shower, one Temazcal, and a nearby plunge pool).

Here some just a few deliciously organic spa offerings:

Revitalizing Cotinga, in the Temazcal, begins with an aromatic steam therapy to oxygenate the pores of your skin. The treatment continues in their Vichy shower with a pineapple exfoliation and a therapeutic anti-inflammatory chamomile mud wrap. (Note: Temazcal rituals need two people per session so bring along your partner for a truly liberating couples experience)

Aromatherapy, or Essential Oil therapy, is also on offer. Taking a holistic approach of using extracts from plants to balance, harmonize and improve the mind, body and soul by using essential oils such as spruce, rosewood spruce, rosewood, frankincense, and blue tansy. Detox relaxes muscles, improves circulation and relieves joint pain by using essential oils such basil, grapefruit, cypress, marjoram, mint, and lavender to drain and remove toxins.

Organic spa treatment

Organic Ingredients Good Enough to Eat!

Organic Fruit Facials incorporate seasonal fruits like cucumber, melon, banana, lychee, papaya, pineapple and passion fruit, along with cacao and honey, to refreshen your face. The best part? Their 50-minute facial only costs US $45. For those feeling even more romantic, there’s the Romantic Rio Coloradito Treatment, a lavender-fused massage to delete back and neck tensions from all those days sitting at the computer. It’s followed with a warm foot purification scrub (using honey and flowers for her and herbs for him) while sipping on a delicious tea from local fruits and aphrodisiac spices.

Honduran Rafting Excursion!

Honduran Rafting Excursion! (c) Small Luxury Hotels of the World

The eco-lodge is worth the escape alone. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World™, its five-star amenities are set on the edge of Honduras’ second largest National Park, ten miles from La Ceiba. There’s a trio of four-story observation decks overlooking the jungle canopy and adventures like white water rafting and jungle safaris through protected mangroves make it an unforgettable experience. Plus, with only 22 private cabins, it’s the perfect place to escape city life, in eco-chic style.

www.picobonito.com