Varun Sharma
Contributing Writer
With a distinguished career spanning more than a quarter-century, Varun Sharma stands as a leading authority in luxury travel journalism. Trained at the BBC, Varun's expertise has shaped content across prestigious platforms including the BBC, The Telegraph (UK), MSNBC, Travel Channel, and Condé Nast Traveller. His extensive journeys have taken him to more than 100 nations, where he has reviewed hundreds of the world’s most iconic hotels, resorts, and premium airlines. Beyond travel, Varun has collaborated in the kitchens of Michelin-starred chefs—many of whom appeared on his acclaimed global television series, Inside Luxury Travel. Varun’s hands-on approach and deep industry insight ensure his reviews deliver both authenticity and a discerning perspective valued by sophisticated travelers.
Posts by Varun
Review of The Silo Hotel
The Silo hotel is located on the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. This 28-room luxury boutique hotel is part of The Royal Portfolio, which boasts a string of prestigious properties in South Africa. The Silo is built in the elevator portion of a historic grain silo, occupying six floors above Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, which houses the continent's largest collection of modern indigenous art. The hotel itself is ‘a celebration of art, architecture, style and design’ - industrial yet extravagantly chic. At 57 metres (190 feet), the silo was the tallest building in Sub-Saharan Africa when it was opened in August 1924. The original building was a huge concrete grain silo used to store wheat, maize and soya that was shipped around the world. Derelict after operations ceased in 2001, it became a focus of the massive regeneration of the waterfront which has changed the cultural landscape of the city. It is still the tallest structure on the Waterfront offering fantastic views of the harbour, city, and the iconic Table Mountain. The Silo Hotel is featured on the Businessclass list of The Best Luxury Hotels In Cape Town
Feb 9, 2026
Review of Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong
Hong Kong boasts some of the finest hotels in the world and they do not come any better than the Four Seasons Hotel, Hong Kong. Ask any frequent traveller for the names of the best luxury hotel brands and guaranteed, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts will feature prominently. Four Seasons do luxury and service so well; it’s ingrained – and unthinkable to them not to do their best. It may come as no surprise that the award-winning 399-guestroom – including 54 suites - Four Seasons Hotel, Hong Kong is pretty much as good as it gets for both business and pleasure travellers. The hotel boasts an incredible SEVEN Michelin stars – three each for Lung King Heen (Cantonese) and Caprice (French) and one for Sushi Saito – which magics up some of the finest sushi outside Japan. The hotel has an Executive Club Lounge on the 45th floor – which boasts stunning views over Hong Kong, two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre and a spa & wellness centre. The vistas from the infinity pool at Four Seasons Hotel, Hong Kong are truly spectacular.
Feb 3, 2026
Review of Four Seasons Hotel Doha
The Four Seasons in Doha opened in 2005 and is considered by many to be the grande dame of Doha’s luxury hotels. With 175 guest rooms and 57 suites spread over 17 stories, the property boasts a stunning spa split over three levels, a fitness centre, steam rooms, sauna and yoga studio, nine restaurants and bars, two tennis and two squash courts, three grotto-style pools and two family friendly pools, a private beach and marina. It is almost impossible to believe but around twenty years or so ago, Doha was a relatively little-known, sleepy desert backwater of a capital of the former British protectorate Qatar. Today, thanks to its free-flowing oil wealth, Doha has invested millions in creating luxurious hotels, shopping malls and a full tourism infrastructure whilst retaining a link to its Islamic heritage and way of life. To some, Doha was but a luxury stopover en route to the Maldives but now it has really come into its own as a rich cultural destination in its own right, particularly in the spring with its guaranteed sunshine. No doubt with the World Cup scheduled to take place in 2022, the spotlight will further enhance the country’s reputation and Qatar will come into much further prominence on the global field.
Dec 23, 2025
38 Best Luxury Hotels In Paris
Discover the epitome of luxury and opulence in the City of Lights. Uncover the best luxury hotels in Paris, offering exquisite accommodations and unrivaled hospitality
Dec 17, 2025
Review of The Lowell
If you prefer a luxurious residential atmosphere reminiscent of a private townhouse with impeccable service and a welcoming warmth rather than the more anonymous charms of a larger hotel, then head for The Lowell, New York. Located in the city’s most exclusive and fashionable Upper East Side in a seventeen-floor landmark building, the hotel offers just 74 rooms including 47 suites: thirty-three of these rooms have wood-burning fireplaces, fourteen have terraces and almost all offer fully equipped kitchens. Attention to detail and personal, thoughtful service are key elements in The Lowell’s extensive repertoire which unsurprisingly has a repeat and well-heeled guest ratio of 75% – gourmet minibars; custom sheets by Frette; cashmere throws; packing and unpacking service; personal trainers; massage therapists – you name it, they supply it. They can even arrange a private sunrise visit to the Empire State Building! Four footed friends are welcome and the property has a Pet Menu and a dog walking service. On the food side, gastronomic repasts can be enjoyed at Majorelle, Jacques Bar, The Club Room and the Pembroke Room whilst any excess pounds can be worked off in the inhouse fitness facility or at Equinox, just two blocks away. The Lowell is family owned.
Dec 8, 2025
Maldives Travel Guide
With a wonderful year-round climate, pristine coral sand beaches, superb resorts, clean and warm seas, delicious cuisine, relaxing spas, plentiful sporting facilities and genuinely friendly people – Maldives is ideal for families, honeymooners, couples, and solo travellers. As a bucket list destination, Maldives offers amazing and diverse facilities and activities – with underwater restaurants, overwater villas, seaplanes, semi-submersible submarines and some of the best diving & snorkelling in the world. Maldives is home to over 2,000 species of fish. On land you will see fruit bats, lizards, and birds and underwater there are sharks, dolphins, coral, turtles, manta rays … the list is endless and is there to be explored! Located in the Indian Ocean, just south of Sri Lanka and east of the African continent, Maldives is made up of just under 1200 islands, of which 200 are inhabited. Maldives is spread out over 96,000 square kilometres of ocean and also crosses the Equator.Maldives is a bucketlist destination in every way. There is an island, there is a resort, there is a beach for everyone in Maldives …
Nov 26, 2025
10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Experience the ultimate holiday delight with our 2025 guide to the top 10 Christmas markets in Europe. Unwrap festive magic now!
Nov 19, 2025
The Best Luxury Hotels in Mauritius
Mauritius is part of the continent of Africa, is located around 1,120 kilometres (700 miles) east of Madagascar and around 1,900 kilometres (1,200 miles) from the African mainland. The Mauritian main island is just 45 kilometres wide and 65 kilometres long.
Nov 19, 2025
10 Best Luxury Hotels in Prague
An enchanting air envelops a city of ancient bridges and cobbled streets, where one can time travel back to the gothic, baroque, and neoclassical eras.
Nov 11, 2025
10 Best Luxury Hotels in Abu Dhabi
In Abu Dhabi, the concept of having it all is a tangible reality. Merging Arabic tradition and splendid modernity in equal measure, Abu Dhabi offers unlimited sunshine, world-class attractions, and a reputation for being the United Arab Emirates’ cultural heartbeat. Perched on a collection of 200 islands off the mainland in the Persian Gulf, the UAE’s capital city has its focus on oil exports and commerce, something that is reflected in the soaring skyline and mega shopping centres such as Abu Dhabi, The Galleria and Marina Malls. Exclusive hotels and a myriad of theme parks and recreational centres makes Abu Dhabi one of the most developed cities in the Middle East.
Oct 28, 2025
Review of Copacabana Palace - a Belmond Hotel
A grand Art Deco statement oozing old world glamour, the Copacabana Palace – a Belmond Hotel - has been a Rio de Janeiro landmark and a lure for the world’s elite for nearly a hundred years. Today’s property offers 239 rooms and suites, designed in a bright, classic style with bathrooms of pink and white Brazilian marble. It is, however, the seven penthouse suites on the sixth floor looking out over the ocean which catch the eye and they share an exclusive black pool available just for those on this floor.For assuaging hunger, the hotel has it covered with two Michelin starred restaurants – Mee for pan-Asian dishes with a formidable sake menu and the Ristorante Hotel Cipriani for an Italian feast with an accompanying chef’s table for customised dining. With panoramic windows and a mirrored ceiling, Pérgula offers Mediterranean-Brazilian fusion with a grill offering sizzling cuts of meat with a selection of sauces and garnishes. Whilst the pool bar has tapas on tap, head to the Piano Bar to see the A-listers at play. Facilities wise, the main building and a newer tower wing (opened in 1948) encircle an enticing half-Olympic sized swimming pool itself circled by sun loungers whilst for those who like to feel the sand between their toes, Copacabana Beach opposite enjoys a full hotel service with sun loungers, umbrellas, and water on call. The Copacabana Palace Spa stands ready to pamper and rejuvenate their clients with seven treatment rooms, two of which are for couples, a sauna, steam room and a relaxation area. There is also a spa boutique and a beauty salon. For the active, there is a fully equipped and air-conditioned fitness centre with a first-floor rooftop tennis court offering views out over the ocean and the city.The property has also re-opened the doors to their legendary Copacabana Palace Theatre, a listed heritage building dating from the 1950s which has just enjoyed an extensive renovation. Theatre guests may have a bite to eat at the re-designed café or sip a cocktail in the intimate theatre lounge.
Oct 15, 2025
10 Best Luxury Hotels in Tenerife
"Indulge in opulence with our top picks of 10 best luxury hotels in Tenerife. Experience ultimate comfort and sophistication for an unforgettable stay."
Oct 8, 2025
Review of Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus
A former 19th century Ottoman palace now luxurious hotel, the elegant Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus stands proudly on the European banks of the Strait of Istanbul. This waterway is significant as it forms part of the continental boundary between Europe and Asia - which connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. Once known as Atik Pasha, the palace was originally built as a secondary residence near the Sultan’s summer palace and is suitably impressive, opening as a Four Seasons property in 2008 and offering 145 beautiful guest rooms and 25 suites arranged over four floors. There are six restaurants and bars offering everything from fish and seafood in the main restaurant to international favourites to teatime treats and Turkish specialities. To work off any pounds gained, there is a fully equipped fitness centre and two swimming pools, one heated and overlooking the Bosphorus and the other within the 2,100 square metre (22,605 square foot) spa, complete with ten treatment rooms, a sauna, traditional Hammams decorated with Marmara marble and a hair salon. This is the sister – and complementary - hotel to the more intimate Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet - located in the very heart of the city, close to Topkapi Palace. Both are part of Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts.
Sep 24, 2025
Sri Lanka Travel Guide
The teardrop isle in the Indian Ocean reverberates with the unspoilt idyll of its 1,790-kilometre palm-fringed coastline, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, emerald-green terraced tea estates and ruins of ancient civilisations. Sri Lanka's tropical allure is finally coming into its own, and how!
Sep 23, 2025
Review of COMO The Halkin
COMO The Halkin is widely regarded as the “mother” of London's ever-expanding offering of amazing boutique hotels. It was opened in 1991 by the visionary Singaporean hotelier Christina Ong and was the first COMO hotel in the group. Featuring just 41 rooms & suites, COMO The Halkin is tucked discreetly in the heart of Belgravia - just moments from Hyde Park Corner. In its early years, the rich, famous, power couples and royalty flocked to The Halkin as it was the best of the best. With it's flawless service, superb cuisine (the hotel has - in the past - held numerous Michelin stars), location and most importantly, privacy, the hotel was ideal for the Concorde-flying jet-set. The recently renovated Halkin Bar is a favourite for hotel Guests and local Belgravians, the COMO Shambhala Afternoon Tea is the most original culinary offering in London, there's a small gym, and Guests have free access to COMO Shambhala London at The Halkin's sister property - COMO Metropolitan London - just a few minutes walk away. Here they can be pampered and preened to their heart's content. Nealy 35 years years since opening, COMO The Halkin still has a healthy following and certainly holds its own in a city that is famed for its fabulous boutique hotels.
Sep 23, 2025
Review of Foxhills Club & Resort
Foxhills Club & Resort is located in one of the most beautiful parts of Surrey - and just an hour’s drive from central London. There are 66 rooms & suites at Foxhills – catering for singles, couples and families.With two Championship golf courses, a fun par-3 nine-hole course, 14 courts - tennis, padel and pickleball, spa, wellness centre, five pools – outdoor and indoor, Finnish saunas, steam room, gym, fitness classes, yoga, walks, a Zen Garden, and over 200 weekly activities for adults & children, Foxhills offers an activity for everyone.Catering for all, there is a selection of restaurants from The Fox fine dining rooms, brasserie cuisine at Nineteen, and family-dining at Flo’s. While the Manor Lounge is ideal for cocktails … and a cheeky after-dinner whisky.The Pavilion is very much aimed at families – with heated swimming pools, play areas, and a crèche.The whole estate centres around a 19th-century Manor House – which was once home to the politician Sir Charles James Fox. There are no bedrooms in the main house but it is where you check-in, relax, meet friends, enjoy breakfast, and formal dining and drinks.Foxhills is the perfect family escape from London – especially if you enjoy sport. It is not a one-night stay hotel – with all the activities on offer, aim for at least three – that way you can exhaust yourself (& family) while de-stressing and escaping from the world outside.
Sep 23, 2025
Review of Grove of Narberth
Grove of Narberth is a delightful 25-bedroom country house hotel - located in the county of Pembrokeshire - at the southwest tip of Wales.Dating back to the 15th century, Grove was in a total state of disrepair when purchased in 2007 by its owners Zoe & Neil Kedward - who have lovingly restored the whole estate into the gem-of-a-hotel that it is today. The Grove is set in 26 acres of woodland, gardens, meadows - basically, heaven!There are 12 bedrooms in fabulous cottages and the historic Longhouse that are located a very short walk from the main house - which itself offers a further 13 rooms & suites. While enjoying the tranquility & beauty of the Welsh countryside is certainly a highlight of a stay at Grove, enjoying the superb restaurants is another. Under the toque of Executive Chef Douglas Balish, Fernery has established itself as one of the most acclaimed fine-dining restaurants in Wales. The hotel also offers the Artisan Brasserie which serves a more laid-back menu. Chef Balish uses only the best quality, local ingredients - and as this part of Wales is the food bowl of the country - those ingredients are flasus.The hotel does not offer a spa, swimming pool, tennis courts, golf course or fitness centre, but that's what makes it so special. Guests visit Grove for the food & drink, friendly & efficient service, the grounds - which include kitchen and walled gardens, peace & tranquility and as a luxury hub from which to explore the diverse, picturesque and wonderful county of Pembrokeshire. Grove of Narberth is the flagship of the Seren Collection which includes : Penmaenuchaf - a small hotel in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park - Northern Wales, the one Michelin Star Beach House restaurant in Oxwich - Gower - South Wales and Lan y Môr - a restaurant just a 20-minute drive from Grove, at Saundersfoot, which serves the highest quality surf, turf, snacks, small plates and snacks - washed down with cocktails. It enjoys superb views over the Bristol Channel.
Sep 23, 2025
Review of Raffles London at The OWO
Raffles London at The OWO opened to huge fanfare on Friday 29th September, 2023. In less than a year, it has earned its place as one of the finest luxury city hotels in the world - even rivalling its sister property Raffles Singapore which has stood for over 135 years.Old War Office (OWO) was built in the early 20th century and used by the UK Government until 2016. Its close proximity to 10 Downing Street - the British Prime Minister's office in London - and its stunning architecture - has allowed OWO to standout from many of the other grand Heritage buildings in Whitehall.The new OWO is the creation of the mega-wealthy Hinduja family. It comprises of nine restaurants, three bars, 85 branded residences (service by Raffles) and the Raffles London hotel.There are just 120 rooms & suites in Raffles London at The OWO, a Guerlain Spa, Pillar Wellbeing health club - complete with a magnificent 20-metre underground heated indoor swimming pool, The Drawing Room, Pillar Kitchen, The Spy Bar, and The Guards Bar and Lounge. All the hotel's food & beverage offerings are overseen by one of the most talented chefs in the world, Mauro Colagreco. He has already earned three-Michelin stars for his Mirazur restaurant in the South of France. Mauro has brought his incredible talent - and Team - to Whitehall and heads up Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London at The OWO, Mauro’s Table and Saison by Mauro Colagreco - all as magnificent as each other. A great deal has been reported on how much The OWO cost to buy and transform from what was an office building into this luxury hospitality destination in the centre of London. The transformation took 7 years and the quality of the renovation is truly remarkable. Indeed, in my view, it was money well spent and with its highly-trained and experienced Staff, Raffles London at The OWO is now easily in the “Top 3” of the city's incredible collection of luxury hotels. For the film buffs among you, the Old War Office appeared in five James Bond outings. As the home to MI6 and the fictional Head of Secret Intelligence Service - M, the building featured in Octopussy, View to a Kill, Licence to Kill and Spectre. And finally in Skyfall - Bond (Daniel Craig) is seen glaring over London from a nearby Whitehall building and one of the famous OWO domed towers is clear to see.OWO was once filled with spies-in-training, career soldiers, experts in espionage (including Ian Fleming - the creator of James Bond), parliamentarians and Heads of State. It was a very private & secret, and imposing building, situated right in the heart of London's political landscape. Now, it's very public - with all-comers offered the chance to stay, eat, drink, enjoy, and explore one of the city's most important landmarks. Raffles Hotels & Resorts is part of the mighty French hospitality group ACCOR. There are currently 24 properties in the Raffles stable - which is continually expanding - including London, Singapore, Paris, Türkiye and my favourite, in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Sep 23, 2025
Review of The Beaumont Hotel
The Beaumont is one of most wonderful luxury hotels in London. Located in the city's most affluent district - Mayfair - The Beaumont opened in September 2014 and features 72 rooms & 29 suites.Embodying the elegance of Art Deco and the golden age of transatlantic travel, The Beaumont is a quintessential retreat of refined luxury. Privately owned and independently operated, the hotel has gained a reputation for exemplary service and sophistication, blending classic British hospitality with a distinctly modern flair. Following a meticulous refurbishment in 2021, The Beaumont now features an additional bedroom wing, two private dining rooms, and subtle yet impactful updates to colours, textures, and furnishings. These were all designed by the late, great French interiors maestro Thierry Despont. Accommodation highlights include the extraordinary ROOM by Antony Gormley - the award-winning artist - and The Roosevelt Suite, which can expand to a five-bedroom private wing.The hotel features the Colony Grill Room - open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the delightful Gatsby's Room - for all-day dining and the impressive La Magritte Bar & Terrace - which celebrates all things American - as seen in 1920s Paris or London. The cigar humidor in the Lobby is one of the best in town. For those needing a daily workout, there's the Resident's Gymnasium, plus steam room, sauna, dry heat, men's grooming, therapies - massages & more, and hair & beauty treatments.The Beaumont is very much like London's The Connaught and The Stafford - it offers the best of the best, to the best of the best.
Sep 23, 2025
The Best Luxury Hotels in Hawaii
Hailed as the 50th state in the United States of America, Hawaii is located east of the mainland – 3,200 kilometres into the Pacific Ocean.
Sep 23, 2025
Review of The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong
The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, one of the world’s highest hotels, is a 312 roomed property which starts on the 103rd floor of Kowloon’s International Commerce Centre, sitting at an dizzying elevation of 488 metres, 1,600 feet above sea level. An eighty-second elevator ride brings you from the ground level lobby up to the entrance of the property. There are five dining venues offering Chinese and Italian fare, a lobby lounge, a buffet restaurant and a rooftop al fresco bar; a Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge; a business centre; a health club and spa with an indoor infinity pool with mirrored ceiling and LED wall display and a fitness centre.
Aug 26, 2025
Review of Thornbury Castle
Thornbury Castle - set in 15 acres of glorious, verdant English countryside - boasts a history that dates back to 1511. It is the only Tudor-castle-hotel-experience in England. With just 26 bedchambers, this castle hotel is a must for any luxury traveller who appreciates fabulous cuisine and history. Notable visitors to Thornbury include King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Queen Mary 1st, Sophia Loren and Laurence Olivier. In the 1970s, Thornbury Castle was home to an acclaimed restaurant which was the first outside London to receive a Michelin-star. While the Castle's fine dining restaurant no longer holds this accolade, it probably should do! The Castle offers a selection of historic pastimes including longbow archery, axe throwing, croquet, and falconry. There's clay pigeon shooting (30 minutes away). Thornbury Golf Course is an (unspoilt) walk away and the world famous Celtic Manor (Wales) is just a 30-minute drive. While there is no formal spa facility, the Castle offers a treatment room for massages and facials. The three standout activities are a tour of the Castle's superb gardens, history tour of the property and a favourite - becoming a Tudor Queen for a day.The cities of Bath and Bristol are close by and Wales is a short drive away.For those who worry that the Castle is any way too antiquated, let me put your mind to rest. Thornbury was purchased in 2019 by a renowned UAE-based hotel group which has renovated & refurbished Thornbury Castle to the very highest standard. While still authentically “Tudor” in design, the bedchambers and public areas have all the contemporary additions expected from a luxury hotel. The bedchambers are among the best I have seen in England.Thornbury Castle is one of the finest “castle experiences” in England.
Aug 26, 2025
Maldives Bucket List
Plan the perfect trip to the Maldives – our complete bucket list will show you everything you need to know before you go!
Jul 22, 2025
43 Best Luxury Hotels in Maldives
Experience pure luxury of our handpicked luxury hotels in Maldives, and make this trip unforgettable for you and you'r loved ones. Best of travels -businessclass
Jul 22, 2025
Review of Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
Istanbul is a bustling, bewitching city of mystery, intrigue and history – a history that lives on at the Çırağan Palace Hotel Kempinski. As the name might suggest, the main public areas and key suites are located in a former nineteenth century Ottoman palace overlooking the Bosphorus. The property offers 310 rooms and suites, the majority of these are situated in the main hotel section, with just eleven suites located in the Imperial Palace itself. There are six restaurants and bars, a shopping arcade of boutiques and a luxury spa with a fitness centre, indoor pool, an authentic Turkish hammam for traditional massage and bath, a whirlpool, sauna and steam rooms. There is also an outside children’s pool and for those who like to blow in and out quickly, a helipad. The most popular facility however must be the outdoor infinity main pool, located in front of the hotel, set in landscaped gardens, overlooking the mighty Bosphorus. The Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul is featured on the Businessclass list of The Best Luxury Hotels in Istanbul
Jul 16, 2025
Review of Corinthia London
Opened in 2011 - Corinthia London - with its consistently excellent service and superb facilities - has steadily crept up the “10 Best Luxury Hotels in London” leaderboard. Situated just a few minutes walk from Downing Street (home to the British Prime Minister) in Westminster, the hotel was created from two historic buildings - the Metropole (itself once a hotel) and 10 Whitehall Place (a Ministry of Defence building). Corinthia London features 283 guestrooms - including 58 suites, 3 restaurants, 2 bars - including Velvet by - The Maestro - Salvatore Calabrese, a floral boutique and ESPA Life at Corinthia - complete with underground heated swimming pool - one of the finest spas in London. The Full Moon Chandelier that greets guests upon entering The Crystal Moon Lounge is one of the most memorable pieces of “art” in any city hotel that I have visited. Made up of 1,000 pellucid - and just 1 red orb - of pure Baccarat crystal glass, this Chafik Gasmi creation is breathtakingly spectacular! The hotel is frequented by the Hollywood A-list including actor Tom Cruise and singer Beyonce - while movies (e.g. Red Sparrow starring Jennifer Lawrence) and award-winning televisions shows (e.g. Slow Horses with Gary Oldman) have also been filmed here. Being such a sizeable hotel - with so many guestroom categories, it is ideal for couples and families alike. Corinthia is a luxury hotel group - founded in Malta in 1962. It currently features nine hotels including those in London, Prague, Budapest and Lisbon with imminent openings in Rome, Bucharest, New York (The Surrey), Qatar and Maldives. Corinthia London is its flagship hotel.
Jul 16, 2025
Review of La Mamounia
Arguably the most famous and luxurious city hotel in North Africa, La Mamounia has provided a peaceful oasis in Morocco’s capital of culture, Marrakech, for almost a century. This palatial hotel with its fabulous tiling, silk draped ceilings and marble fountains has provided respite from the buzz of the Moroccan city’s medina since 1923. Set in eight hectares of perfumed, flower-filled gardens, La Mamounia offers 135 guestrooms, 71 suites and three standalone riads (Moroccan houses). There are ten restaurants and bars including offerings by the multi-Michelin starred winning chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and renowned pastry chef and chocolatier Pierre Hermé, a kitchen garden, a cinema, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a 2,500 square metre spa with two traditional and one private Hammam, hairdresser and barber shop, two boutiques, a flower kiosk, two meeting rooms and a games room. There is also a fitness centre, two clay tennis courts, table tennis and a French bowling pitch. This beautiful grande dame hotel has recently undergone a stylish multi-million-pound makeover by the design duo Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku, creating new spaces and re-imagining old ones with style and panache – but still in keeping with the original hotel. It took three months and 300 dedicated craftsmen to rethink and redesign this palace to keep its rightful position as one of the most famous, luxurious, and intriguing hotels in the world.
Jul 16, 2025
Review of The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel
The Carlyle enjoys one of the most prized addresses on the Upper East Side, the most affluent neighbourhood in New York. The streets are literally paved with multi-million-dollar brownstones, luxury boutiques, and some of the finest & grandest hotels in the city. The Carlyle features 189 rooms and suites, spa, fitness centre and restaurants & bars. The hotel attracts affluent, sophisticated travellers who demand – and receive - faultless service and superb facilities. The Carlyle exudes a timeless elegance that has made it one of the most revered addresses in New York. The Café Carlyle has – over the years – become one of the city’s most popular and intimate jazz venues – hosting musical royalty. With its close proximity to Central Park and only short cab ride/walk to Midtown, the Carlyle offers guests privacy but also accessibility to the many delights of the Big Apple.
Jul 16, 2025
Review of The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort
Set on eight kilometres (five miles) of pristine white sandy beach along the North Shore of the aptly named Paradise Island, the ultra-luxurious Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas is located within 14 hectare (35 acres) of verdant gardens and is comprised of 107 rooms, suites, plunge pool villas and villa residences. There are also five restaurants, lounges and bars including gourmet treats from the acclaimed chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, facilities are numerous and include three pools – a lagoon style one with refreshing waterfall and aqua toys, perfect for families, an ocean pool ideal for soaking up the rays and the Versailles pool, which offers an elegant, adults-only sanctuary. There is also access to the nearby Atlantic Resort’s waterscape park which is ideal for children with a complimentary shuttle service available. For pampering and relaxation, there are eight award-winning Balinese-inspired spa villas, a Fitness Centre with Techno Gym equipment and dedicated rooms for stretching, Pilates and an outdoor free-weights platform. Other activities include yoga, jogging trails, biking and six tennis courts (three for night play). The Ocean Club Golf Course, with views of Nassau Harbour and the Atlantic, is a challenging yet scenic 18-hole, par 72 course designed by Tom Weiskopf. There is also an academy plus golf shop. Other amenities include the Carlo Milano Boutique with designer collections from Céline, Chopard, Hublot, Prada, Tom Ford and Versace and a 12th century Augustinian Cloister and classical statuary set in beautifully maintained gardens.
Jul 16, 2025
13 Best Business Class Airlines in the World
Explore the 13 finest business class airlines of 2024. Elevate your travel with luxury, comfort, and top-notch service on these premium carriers.
Jul 1, 2025
Review of The Dorchester - Dorchester Collection
For nearly a century, The Dorchester - flagship of Dorchester Collection - has been one of the most recognisable and acclaimed luxury hotels in London. Situated opposite Hyde Park on the prestigious Park Lane, The Dorchester has been welcoming guests since 1931 but over the years, the property has undergone several refurbishments to ensure that it moves with the times. The Dorchester offers 250 suites and rooms including three quite special roof suites. The hotel offers the most diverse collection of fine-dining experiences in London - including the highly acclaimed Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester - which holds 3 Michelin stars – one of only two hotel restaurants in the city to earn this ultimate culinary accolade. The Dorchester has served a formal, traditional English afternoon tea every day since it opened. The Dorchester Spa offers a plethora of treatments and guests can use Park Lane's longest swimming pool at 45 Lane - The Dorchester's sister hotel - situated just a few steps away. An opulent building has stood on the site of the hotel since 1751 and Dorchester House - once home to the US Ambassador - was demolished in 1929. Eighteen months later, The Dorchester hotel was opened. It still displays the delightful period Art Deco design that was used so prominently in its construction. The Dorchester is featured on the Businessclass list of The Best Luxury Hotels In London
Jun 27, 2025
Review of Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort - Igloos and Chalets
When the season turns colder .. and winter arrives with its icy grip, Lapland is on most people’s bucket list, wanting to see the marvel of the Aurora Borealis - the Northern Lights - and maybe catch a glimpse of Santa Claus and Rudolph preparing for their big day. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland, ticks every box in that regard, being in the right zone for optimal aurora viewing, reindeer and Santa spotting - although it has plenty to offer visitors any time of year. This family-friendly Kakslauttanen Artic Resort is located in two halves – East and West Villages – offering in total around 190 different types of accommodation - 65 log chalets, 65 glass igloos, 40 Kelo-Glass igloos (a combination of log chalet and glass igloo). The resort’s two restaurants offer à la carte menus packed with local Lappish delicacies. Private celebrations can also be booked in the Santa Claus Celebration House, Korsu “The Underground” Restaurant or the Smoke Sauna Restaurant. There are five smoke saunas, including the largest one in the world, ice swimming and all types of safaris – husky; reindeer; snow mobile; snow tank; riding and ice fishing. Other activities include aurora hunting; cross-country skiing; icebreaker sampo; downhill skiing and snowboarding. In the autumn months, there are horse and ATV safaris; hiking in the Urho Kekkonen National Park; mushroom and berry picking; canoeing in the wilderness; mountain biking and gold panning. Many of these activities can also be enjoyed in the summer but the warmer months also offer Lemmenjoki Cruises and fishing trips. The resort can supply both rental clothing and equipment if booked in advance. For souvenirs and local handicrafts, there is a gift shop in each section of the resort.
Jun 24, 2025
10 Best Luxury Hotels in Copenhagen
Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark, exudes an air of timeless elegance and sophistication, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a taste of luxury. With its charming blend of historic architecture, world-class cuisine, and impeccable design, Copenhagen effortlessly captures the essence of opulence. Luxury is deeply ingrained in Copenhagen's DNA, evident in its array of high-end hotels that cater to the most discerning travellers. From iconic establishments like the Hotel d'Angleterre, renowned for its exquisite decor and exceptional service, to boutique gems like Nimb Hotel, where luxury meets intimate refinement, Copenhagen offers a plethora of options to indulge in lavish comfort.
Jun 18, 2025
The Best Couples & Honeymoon Resorts in Maldives
Unless you are a local, you cannot get legally married in the Maldives.
Jun 4, 2025
Review of Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve
A beautiful wildlife oasis drawing guests from across the world, South Africa’s Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve promises the safari experience of a lifetime. Big game is plentiful, roaming freely around this pristine part of Africa with the Big Five – lion, leopard, rhinocheros, buffalo and elephant – close at hand. Then there are cheetah, wild dogs and some 200 other animal species indigenous to the area – not to mention the Bush, which changes spectacularly with the seasons. For the ultimate in luxurious accommodation, Sabi Sabi is comprised of four separate all-suite lodges with very distinct characters and atmospheres – the heritage, colonial style of Selati Camp (with seven suites), the more contemporary Bush Lodge (with 25 suites), Little Bush Lodge (with six suites) and the futuristic Earth Lodge (with 13 suites). At each lodge, there is back up electricity, boutiques, full bar facilities, lounges, parking, Wi-Fi and swimming pools (Earth Lodge offers private plunge pools). At Bush Lodge, additional facilities include a Children’s Centre (EleFun) and a suite for disabled guests. At Bush Lodge and Earth Lodge, there are Amani spa facilities, gyms and wine cellars.
Apr 25, 2025
11 Best Modern Safari Experiences In The World
Discover the top 11 modern safari experiences worldwide! Unleash your inner explorer and embark on unforgettable wildlife adventures. Start your thrilling journey now.
Apr 25, 2025
Review of Four Seasons Resort Seychelles
Located on a granite plateau with a backdrop of majestic mountains overlooking a protected azure-blue bay, the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles has deservedly topped all the reader best hotel awards since it first opened its doors. With 67 private villas cascading down the hillside to a horseshoe shaped white sandy beach far below, the resort is often referred to as treetop living with villas on stilts enjoying extensive views over the Indian Ocean. Each villa - there are 62 guest rooms and five suites - comes its own private plunge pool, whirlpool, and outdoor shower. There are also 27 residential units, ideal for larger family gatherings or groups. When it comes to dining, there are three restaurants and two bars with cuisine ranging from Creole, to Japanese and Mediterranean. You are spoilt for choice facilities wise on this 69-hectare property, with a beautifully pristine white sandy, palm fringed beach complete with cabanas; a hilltop Le Syel Spa with eight treatment rooms; a 517 square metre main swimming pool; a yoga studio and a 128 square metre fitness facility with personal trainers on demand. There is also a Library and a couple of boutiques. On site activities include anything from birdwatching to boating, hiking to scuba diving with both a water sports pavilion with PADI dive centre and uniquely for the area, a Tropicsurf outlet offering lessons in surfing and paddleboarding. Nearby – offsite - there is yet more to do including horseback riding or jungle trekking, golfing, or deep-sea fishing. Perfect for families, the resort offers a Kids for all Seasons programme with daily activities and a dedicated facility.
Apr 1, 2025
Review of Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is one of three distinct and stunning island resorts operated by the Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts in the Indian Ocean, the others being a property at Landaa Giraavaru and the private island of Voavah on the Baa Atoll. The first of the three resorts to open (1998), Kuda Huraa offers just 96 guest rooms with pools inspired by traditional Maldivian thatched architecture both on the beach and over water. There are four restaurants including Baraabaru which also offers cooking lessons, the Reef Club with Italian cuisine, the casual Café Huraa with its signature dish, Maldivian curried lobster and Kandu Grill. There is also a poolside bar to refresh those taking a dip or sunbathing. For pampering there is a spa with a difference – one located on its own island and reached with a two-minute boat ride. There are seven thatched roof treatment pavilions with louvred side walls to let in the ocean breezes and wooden floor decking with a portal included beside each massage bed through to the marine life below. Other highlights include a private garden courtyard with open air shower, a Night Spa and a Kuda Spa Kids and Teens menu offering 12 treatments especially for children and teenagers aged between six and sixteen years of age. Leisure facilities wise, there are two beaches on either side of the island, two swimming pools – an infinity edge freshwater pool with a large sun deck and the adults only Serenity Pool, both with pool service together with a children’s pool adjacent – plus a 150 square metre fitness facility overlooking the ocean. Other wellness activities include a jogging trail plus group yoga and meditation sessions held at the yoga pavilion facing the ocean. Water sports abound at the resort offering anything from Dolphin Cruises to fishing, kayaking to snorkelling, wakeboarding to surfing with a dedicated surf school, Recreation Centre and Dive Centre. Young guests are also catered for with Kuda Mas Kids’ Club with a wide range of supervised activities both indoors and outdoors with the Furaavaru Teen Centre for those a little older. This is also the home port to the Four Seasons Explorer, a luxury catamaran available for three-, four- and seven-night cruises. The resort has its own resident marine biologists overseeing an Interactive and educational Marine Discovery Centre with a turtle rearing programme, available to impart knowledge about the marine life and coral reefs surrounding the resort.
Mar 26, 2025
The Best Family Resorts in Maldives
"The memories we make with our family is everything ..." and the wonderful memories a family can make on a resort in Maldives will last forever!
Mar 26, 2025
Review of LUX* South Ari Atoll
LUX* South Ari Atoll offers a contemporary Maldivian experience with all the 193 beautifully designed bungalows, villas and pavilions located either on the lagoon or strung out along the long sandy beach. With a laid-back ambiance and the opportunity to explore the best of what the Maldives has to offer, the architecture is a modern take on the traditional Maldivian thatched roofed architecture. Here, you will find chaise longues temptingly located on the four kilometres of sandy palm fringed beaches, staircases down to the ocean from the water villas and seven dining concepts to suit every palate from Japanese to the Oriental, international cuisine to Italian or a café serving signature coffees roasted in house. Bar-wise, there are five around the resort to quench your thirst with one a fully-fledged beach club with a floating dance floor. For wellbeing and fitness, there is the award-winning LUX* Me Spa offering 15 exclusive spa villas (including four over water); an outdoor relaxation area; a sauna and hammam; plunge pools, man-pedi facilities; a hair and bridal studio; a Spa Boutique and yoga classes in a Yoga Grove with sea views. The state-of-the-art LUX* Me Fitness Centre offers a range of TechnoGym equipment and fitness, stretching, progressive and adapted exercises. There are several water sports offered on a complimentary basis including snorkeling trips to the house reef, canoeing, pedal boats and kayaking. Other sports offered by the Dive Centre include diving, windsurfing, waterskiing, jet skiing, kite surfing, flyboarding and much, much more. On land, enjoy table tennis, two floodlit tennis courts, two resort swimming pools, billiards, Pétanque, bicycles and beach cruisers. For mini travellers, PLAY is a specially designed programme to entertain kiddies from three to eleven years with a wide range of thoughtful and expertly curated age-appropriate activities. Other facilities include an on-site clinic, hotel boutique and a range of excursions available including island tours, speedboat trips or sunset cruises on Dhonis (the local boat), luxury catamarans or other crafts. If that is not enough, the resort offers pop-ups and surprises that are visual, aural and gustatory.
Mar 21, 2025
Review of The Peninsula Tokyo
The Peninsula Tokyo’s design is based on a traditional Japanese lantern. It stands proud 24-floors high at the entrance to Marunouchi and Ginza. With 314 guest rooms including 47 suites, with views out over Tokyo and the Imperial Palace, there are nine restaurants, lounges, cafés and bars, two ballrooms, a wedding chapel and a traditional Shinto ceremony room. The hotel also features a thousand pieces of Japanese artwork. The Peninsula Spa is located on the sixth floor with individual treatment rooms and a relaxation area with a thermal suite and aromatic steam rooms, dry saunas, lifestyle showers and shaved ice fountains. The Health Club on the fifth floor offers a well-equipped gym, a 20-metre heated indoor swimming pool and an adjacent vitality pool with a balcony overlooking the Imperial Palace and Hibiya Park. As with all Peninsula properties, the hotel has a fleet of signature Brewster Green luxury vehicles for travelling around the city in style. The fleet includes two Rolls-Royce Extended Wheelbase Phantoms, one restored 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II, two BMW 7-Series and two MINI Cooper S Clubman cars. There is also a Tesla Model S. The Peninsula Tokyo is part of The Peninsula Hotels group, Asia’s oldest hotel company. The group was established in 1928 in Hong Kong and now operates prestigious luxury properties in ten major cities, all synonymous with heritage, innovation and glamour.
Mar 21, 2025
Review of Heckfield Place
Heckfield Place is an exceptional English country house hotel, a 90-minute drive from central London. Originally constructed in the 18th century, the Main House is set in just under 440 acres of carefully protected & nursed countryside, which includes lakes, walled gardens, woods, terraces, and an organic, biodynamic farm complete with greenhouses and spacious verdant fields - home to cows, sheep, chickens, and there is even a sizeable pig den.This independent hotel is the brainchild of an American billionaire whose impeccable taste and attention to detail have led to this masterpiece in hospitality.Heckfield features just 45 perfectly appointed & unique guestrooms, spa - The Bothy by Wildsmith, which opened in 2023, complete with treatment rooms, an indoor chlorine-free infinity swimming pool, a steam room, a sauna, and an outdoor hot tub. There’s a gym, a superb, plush underground cinema, and all the food served in the hotel has been designed by the great Skye Gyngell - Michelin-star holder and champion of farm-to-plate cuisine. Enjoy meals at Marle (Michelin Green Star) and Hearth (an indoor barbecue) and sup on perfect cocktails in the Moon bar.All the hotel’s General Managers are ex-AMAN – old school AMAN – where faultless & exemplary service are their watchwords.Expect & enjoy the very best at Heckfield Place.
Mar 4, 2025
Review of The Connaught
Situated in the heart of affluent Mayfair, The Connaught is one of London's most quintessentially British hotels, traditional yet continually evolving its offerings to offer the best of old and new to its clients. With 121 rooms and suites spread out over six floors, furnishings are modern and bright contrasting well with the marble floors, wooden panelling, and mahogany staircase of the original 1897 building. The Connaught Butler will be on hand to help with any request or arrangement whilst there is also a John Lobb-trained shoeshine service on request. Named for one of Queen Victoria’s sons, The Connaught has become a gastronomic destination in its own right with three-star Michelin-starred Hélène Darroze at The Connaught and Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s interpretation of classic dishes in The Connaught Grill and his eclectic menu in Jean-Georges at The Connaught. For cocktails or a glass of wine, head to either the Red Room, the Coburg Bar for rare vintages and premium spirits or the award-winning Connaught Bar for its innovative cocktails. There is also the Champagne Room for special occasions, the Sommelier’s Table for something a little different, The Chef’s Table for an interactive bespoke menu and The Connaught Patisserie for miniature pastry masterpieces throughout the day or to take home. Just unveiled, The Connaught Cigar Merchants offers one of the finest collections of cigars in the capital under the watchful eye of Adam Lajca, Head of Cigars. For a spot of pampering, the beautifully serene Asian-inspired Aman Spa is hidden away at the heart of The Connaught, the first of its kind to be built outside of Aman Resorts. Holistic treatments tailored to individuals with specialists offering a range of consultations for wellbeing are at the heart of the spa which also features a 15-metre black granite swimming pool and a 24/7 bijoux gym, personal trainers on demand. Children are more than welcome at The Connaught and a whole host of goodies including Connaught activity books with pencils, organic baby amenities, umbrellas, bathrobes and slippers, children’s menus, a Children’s Concierge and much, much more.
Mar 4, 2025
Review of Hotel Eden - Dorchester Collection
Hotel Eden Rome is an icon of timeless luxury and Italian charm, offering guests a tranquil sanctuary high above the bustling streets of the Eternal City. Since welcoming its first guests in 1889, this historic property - in the affluent Ludovisi district - has been a beacon of refined hospitality, blending its turn-of-the-century heritage with modern sophistication. World-renowned designers have carefully restored the hotel, preserving its classic Roman soul while introducing contemporary elegance.With just 98 bespoke guestrooms and 30 suites, the hotel offers intimate luxury and spectacular views of Rome’s skyline, with natural light pouring through tall windows to create warm, inviting spaces. Its rooftop terrace, a signature of the property, captures the romance of the city, making it a favourite spot for artists, royalty, and filmmakers, including Il Maestro, Federico Fellini.Culinary excellence is at the heart of the experience, with La Terrazza’s Mediterranean cuisine and the all-day dining at Il Giardino Ristorante offering locally inspired dishes against stunning backdrops. Paired with the serene Eden Spa, impeccable service, and a legacy that spans over a century, Hotel Eden Rome is an elegant haven where the past and present intertwine, promising an unforgettable Roman Holiday.
Feb 24, 2025
10 Love-liest Romantic European Getaways
Imagine strolling through the winding lanes of Paris, the "City of Love," where every corner promises a romantic vignette. Couples can share intimate moments beneath the Eiffel Tower or cruise along the Seine River, basking in the city's timeless charm. Or think Venice, with its labyrinth of canals, offers a unique romantic experience. Gondola rides under starlit skies, serenaded by the gentle lapping of water and the soft melodies of a gondolier, create an atmosphere of unparalleled romance. Greece's Santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings and stunning sunsets over the Aegean Sea, is a haven for lovers. The tranquil beauty of this island sets the stage for unforgettable romantic moments.Yes - love and Europe fit together like red roses on Valentine's Day.Looking for some ideas for some of Europe's most romantic getways? Look no further … each of our chosen destinations offers a unique experience, combining the allure of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them quintessential choices for a romantic European getaway.
Feb 4, 2025
The Best Spas in Maldives
Every resort in the Maldives features a spa, with offerings ranging from intimate spaces to expansive wellness sanctuaries. Regardless of scale, guests can expect exceptional treatments delivered by highly skilled therapists using premium products.Spending time on a secluded island in the Indian Ocean is the ideal way to reset, focus on the present, and plan for the future. Treatments take place either on the island or in serene overwater villas. Picture being massaged while watching tropical fish glide beneath you, visible through a glass floor – pure bliss.
Jan 29, 2025
20 Best Luxury Hotels in Seoul 2025
A city of pop culture and connectivity, South Korea’s Seoul is cutting-edge cool.
Jan 14, 2025
10 Spookiest Places to Celebrate Halloween - 2025
Do you want to bring halloween this year to the next level? If so, this guide will show you the 10 spookiest places you can visit! so get you'r costume on.
Jan 14, 2025