Austria’s leading five-star family and wellness resort, Naturhotel Forsthofgut in Leogang near Salzburg, has been named Eco-Hotel of the Year in the Destination Deluxe Awards 2024.
Photo credit: Naturhotel Forsthofgut
Announced on 19 September at a glittering awards ceremony in Bangkok, it was the first time Forsthofgut had entered. Christoph Schmuck, owner of the wellness retreat said: ‘we are overjoyed to have been singled out for this prestigious accolade. It is a welcome endorsement of our continued team effort to look after our beautiful environment and planet. Every member of staff has had a hand in our success, and I am proud to accept this award on their behalf.’
A panel of 20 respected judges - each an expert in their field - identified Forsthofgut as the Eco-Hotel of the Year in recognition of its meticulous execution of sustainable practice across all departments and an exceptional contribution to the wellness, spa, beauty and travel sector.
Photo credit: Naturhotel Forsthofgut
Examples of Forsthofgut’s eco-practice include: plastic-free and recycled paper, boxes and packaging policy throughout; 100% biodegradable cleaning products; clean energy created by a bio-mass heating plant (fuelled by fallen wood from their own forest) and an R50 menu (all ingredients sourced within a 50km radius). Guests are also offered a linen towel – handmade by a local artisan - as a departing gift.
The Destination Deluxe Awards, now in their sixth year, honour leaders and pioneers in wellness and travel, celebrating their excellence and rigorous standards. Quality, transparency, and originality are key criteria and recognition is for today’s change-makers who push boundaries and innovate in their fields. There are 25 categories of which three are ‘People’s Choice’ inviting the public to vote on the shortlists drawn up by the judges.
The Anam Mui Ne, an Indochine-era inspired resort in Vietnam’s popular beach town Mui Ne, has expanded its spa and wellness offerings with the launch of its “Beach Spa” specialising in express treatments.
Photo credit: The Anam Mui Ne
Adjacent to the resort’s 266sqm saltwater infinity swimming pool and beach lawn, Beach Spa sits at the other end of the beach to the resort’s Lang Viet Restaurant & Bar, bookending the resort’s best view over the waterfront.
Equipped with two massage beds, Beach Spa offers 15-minute and 30-minute head treatments, a 30-minute aloe-vera after sun treatment, 30-minute back treatment, 30-minute head, neck and shoulder treatment, 30-minute foot treatment and a 40-minute organic facial treatment.
The spa’s highly skilled therapists pamper guests with non-clinical treatments that follow a ‘high-touch, low-tech’ approach, infusing ancient techniques from the East with Western healing practices designed to recalibrate and rejuvenate.
Photo credit: The Anam Mui Ne
“We want to offer the best of both worlds; not just the spa and the beach but also the choice between a longer pampering session at The Anam Spa or a 15-, 30- or 40-minute at our Beach Spa,” said the resort’s manager Ye Chang Sheng (Peter).
“Whether you’re looking to briefly unwind after exploring Mui Ne’s attractions, or you’ve had a bit too much sun on the beach, in one of our two vast swimming pools, or at your private swimming pool at your suite, our express treatments are just the ticket if you’re looking for a bite-sized relaxing session before you continue with another getaway experience.”
Open from 10am-6pm daily, Beach Spa’s treatments are priced from VND 300,000 to VND 450,000.
In addition to the Beach Spa, The Anam Spa, situated closer to the resort’s central freshwater swimming pool, five treatment rooms, including three VIP rooms designed for couples - each equipped with two massage beds and a deep-soaking bathtub - as well as two single rooms, two steam rooms, saunas, indoor Jacuzzis and a beauty salon.
As part of The Anam Spa’s “Let Your Mind Go, and Your Body Will Follow” mantra, the spa menu includes soothing and stress relieving traditional treatments, detox and slimming programmes and the use of Sothys Paris products renowned for their sublime energizing, hydrating and anti-ageing properties. The ‘Tropical Detox and Slimming’ journey is one of the indulgent spa packages on offer, involving a body massage that promotes better circulation, salt glow exfoliation, a fresh coffee and orange extract body wrap, and steam and sauna treatments to further drain toxins. The spa’s facials are designed to hydrate and brighten the skin, and to combat wrinkles and aging. Body care treatments include the Nepalese style tea exfoliation and Bourbon tea intense body wrap.
For further information or to make a booking, visit www.theanam.com, email info.mn@theanam.com or telephone +(84) 252 628 4868.
The most magical time of the year becomes more enchanting when celebrated beneath the starry skies of the Maldives, with thoughtfully curated festive events. Guests are invited to immerse in Maldivian hospitality, indulging in beachfront feasts, creative children’s activities, and vibrant culinary and musical celebrations. From 22 December 2024 to 7 January 2025, LUX* South Ari Atoll offers a myriad of programmes to create unforgettable memories.
"Our resort is the ultimate destination for the festive season, combining the beauty of tropical island surroundings with a variety of special events," says John Rogers, General Manager, LUX* South Ari Atoll. "Recently named the Best Resort for Families in the Maldives by Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024, extraordinary experiences have been designed to suit every guest, whether they are looking to soak in the festive spirit, unwind with a spa day, or embark on an underwater adventure. Guests are invited to celebrate the season – the LUX* way."
Photo credit: LUX* South Ari Atoll
Expert-Led Workshops
The resort will welcome four distinguished experts who will offer workshops to enrich guest experiences. Painter, Hussain Ihfal Ahmed, known as "Iphpha," will showcase his acclaimed coffee paintings and impressionist works, drawing inspiration from nature. Makers Space, an enigmatic artist from Japan, will introduce guests to distinctive pixelated art style, transforming familiar scenes into vibrant new realities. Jeannine Platz, a versatile artist from Hamburg, will blend her dynamic harbour paintings with performance art, captivating audiences with expressive calligraphy and painting. Additionally, Jochen Schöps, a German volleyball champion, will lead daily workshops, providing guests with a rare opportunity to train with an Olympic athlete.
Festive Highlights
Dining highlights begin with canapés, bubbly and festive cocktails as carols fill the air at an elegant Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on 22 December. MIXE and East Market will be the venues for indulgent Christmas Eve Dinner where international buffet is served in an atmosphere of conviviality, followed by a Christmas Eve Party at Beach Rouge. The big day itself is marked in warm Maldivian style with a Christmas Day Roast. Guests will also enjoy a feast of local flavours and entertainment at MIXE Maldivian Night on 26 December. As the New Year approaches, excitement builds with the New Year's Eve Gala Dinner at MIXE and East Market, before guests head to Senses for the Year-end Countdown Party featuring live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display to welcome 2025.
Kids’ Festive Fun
Children will be captivated by a holiday season filled with surprises. From gingerbread house decorating to writing letters to Santa, little ones’ imaginations will run wild with festive creativity. Santa himself will make a special appearance on Christmas morning, arriving on the beach with a sack of gifts for every young guest. Beach games, treasure hunts and outdoor movie nights ensure endless fun.
Photo credit: LUX* South Ari Atoll
Sun, Sea, and Spa
Guests can create their ideal holiday with a blend of festive celebrations and serene island activities. Daily wellness sessions, including floating yoga and facial workshops, offer relaxation, while the stunning marine life of the Maldives can be explored through guided diving and snorkelling excursions. For those seeking to unwind, the spa offers exclusive festive packages designed to rejuvenate and refresh, ensuring guests feel their best.
Beachfront and Overwater Accommodation
With 10 room categories to choose – from a chic bungalow for lazy mornings, an overwater villa for ultimate privacy, or a pavilion with direct beach access for beachside lounging, there is something to suit both couples and families - for that ideal getaway.
View the Festive programme here.
For booking, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.