The Lux Collective’s award-winning resort - LUX* South Ari Atoll is excited to announce a partnership with The Clay Studio Maldives to bring a pottery pop-up to its Junk Art Studio, starting 20 December 2024. This collaboration introduces a hands-on creative activity to the resort’s vibrant programming, providing guests of all ages with a chance to embrace their artistic side while supporting a local Maldivian business.
Photo credits: LUX* South Ari Atoll
The pottery experience includes a diverse schedule of workshops such as wheel-throwing, hand building, and the popular “Paint a Pot” sessions. Tailored options for children and private sessions for couples and families are also available. Each class is led by skilled artisans and designed to inspire creativity while offering an engaging activity for participants.
John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative: "We are delighted to bring this hands-on pottery experience to our guests, in collaboration with The Clay Studio Maldives. As a resort that celebrates creativity and connection, this partnership allows families to create meaningful memories while supporting local artisans."
Photo credits: LUX* South Ari Atoll
The launch coincides with the resort’s festive celebrations, which include a variety of traditions, dining experiences and activities designed to create an unforgettable holiday experience. This announcement follows the resort’s recent accolade as "Best for Families" at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards For Excellence 2025, underscoring its reputation as a leading family-friendly destination.
For resort activities and pottery workshops, please visit Festive Programme. To secure the relaxing holiday bookings, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.
Jumeirah Bali proudly announces the expansion of its luxury accommodation portfolio with the introduction of exceptional new One- and Three-Bedroom Residences. Set against the dramatic cliffs of Uluwatu and offering direct access to the pristine Dreamland Beach, these residences are a masterful blend of Indonesian tradition and contemporary luxury, designed to provide the ultimate retreat for couples, and multigenerational groups.
Photo credits: Jumeirah Bali
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by the sophisticated artistry of Javanese wood carvings, crafted using a time-honoured painting technique. These elements, blended with the architectural philosophy of Geoffrey Bawa's 'tropical modernism', foster a profound harmony between the villas and lush surrounding landscape.
The One-Bedroom Residence – a secluded haven perfect for couples or small families – features a private pool set within vibrant gardens, offering an oasis mere step from the sandy white shores and crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean. The Three-Bedroom Residence – 1,600 square metres of curated, light-filled living space designed for families and groups – blends luxurious interiors with lush gardens and a tranquil pool area, crafting an unparalleled setting for memorable gatherings with loved ones.
Photo credits: Jumeirah Bali
Each residence is infused with design elements inspired by the Majapahit empire, bringing Bali's rich historical tapestry to life through intricate carvings and serene landscaping. Masterfully crafted by the renowned designers at Denniston, known for their commitment to contextual and innovative design, this thoughtful integration of history and nature with sleek modern aesthetics ensures a truly immersive experience that is both deeply rooted in cultural heritage and resolutely forward-looking.
“Our new residences are designed to encapsulate the essence of Balinese beauty and cultural depth,” comments Ram Hiralal, General Manager at Jumeirah Bali. “They offer more than just luxurious accommodations; they serve as a majlis, a gathering place where global culture and connections thrive, ensuring that each stay resonates deeply with both the heart and spirit.”
Guests of these residences will enjoy complimentary daily breakfast, exclusive beach access, full use of the fitness centre, entry to the Peafowl Kids Club, and participation in wellness activities such as yoga and meditation. They will also enjoy discreet and comprehensive butler service including in-villa check-in for a seamless arrival.
This launch meets the growing demand for private, luxurious accommodations, whilst reinforcing Jumeirah Bali's philosophy of blending heritage with modern sophistication.
Set amidst the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, Angsana Velavaru invites travellers to rediscover the magic of overwater living with the refreshed design of its iconic InOcean Villas. Recognised among the Top 20 Resorts in the Indian Ocean by the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, the resort reimagines these sought-after retreats to blend contemporary elegance with the soothing simplicity of island life.
Photo credits: Angsana Velavaru
Perched on stilts above a vibrant coral reef, the InOcean Villas have long defined the essence of Maldivian escapism. The latest enhancements introduce lighter, modern furnishings that complement the panoramic views, creating an ambiance of understated refinement. These enhancements amplify the villas’ enduring charm, ensuring a peaceful sanctuary for those seeking quietude and escape.
Each villa is designed to complement the natural beauty of the island, from the infinity pools that stretch over the reef to the rooftop pavilions perfect for unwinding with spa treatments under the vast island sky. Guests staying in the newly refreshed InOcean Pool Villas will find serene spaces where king-sized bedrooms open to sweeping terraces, complete with sunbeds and overwater catamaran hammock. For couples and families seeking more space to reconnect, the Deluxe InOcean Pool Villas and Deluxe InOcean Two-Bedroom Pool Villas offer spacious layouts that seamlessly blend privacy with stunning ocean views.
This latest transformation at Angsana Velavaru coincides with the resort's growing international acclaim, further establishing its reputation as a distinguished destination. The recognition in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards reflects the resort’s enduring appeal, where world-class facilities and heartfelt service combine to create memorable stays.
To celebrate the unveiling of the newly refreshed InOcean Villas, Angsana Velavaru introduces the Come Closer offer. This exclusive package is crafted to experience the best of the Maldives, with up to 25% savings on your stay and 20% savings on return seaplane transfers, daily breakfast and dinner, a private beach or rooftop dinner, a sunset cruise, and a couple’s spa treatment.
From southern Thai islands to coastal Vietnam, and from the Indonesian archipelago to the cultural heart of Cambodia, Southeast Asia is home to some of the world’s most celebrated travel destinations. Luxury resorts in the region increasingly entice travelers with exclusive private villas offering unparalleled opulence and seclusion. Here is a look at some of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive private villas.
Photo credits: Balcony Media Group
A Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa
Used recently as the location for a finale of US hit TV show The Bachelor, this majestic villa enjoys pride of place directly in front of tranquil Tubkaek Beach, some 30 minutes’ drive from the popular town of Krabi. It can be reserved as a three-bedroom unit or combined with two adjoining family beachfront villas to create a 7-bedroom wonderland of saltwater pools, canals, and balconies. Designed as a retreat for multigenerational family vacations and intimate wedding celebrations, Banyan Tree Krabi’s Presidential villa commands no less than 466 sqm and a palatial 1,240 sqm as a seven-bedroom arrangement. Among the additional amenities, guests will find four Smart TVs, a fully equipped kitchenette, a Nespresso coffee machine, a safety box, a Bluetooth clock radio, pillow menu, wine fridge, private pool and jet pool, as well as private gardens, terraces and balconies galore. Among several luxury options for guests - a private barbecue on the terrace of the beachfront villa with one’s own chef!
Photo credits: Balcony Media Group
The Ultimate in Privacy in Southern Vietnam
Azerai Ke Ga Bay, an elegant and sophisticated beachfront resort in southern Vietnam, offers three extraordinary private villa options for guests. The 130sqm Pool Villas and 145sqm Pool Deluxe Villas feature private plunge pools (larger in the Pool Deluxe Villa), writing desks and spacious bathrooms with views to a private garden and a tub for soaking. The spacious Ke Ga Bay Villa is the ultimate couples retreat, boasting 185sqm of space with a master bedroom upstairs with ocean glimpses and multiple relaxation areas below including a large pool and terrace. The tasteful décor of the villas display a muted color palette of whites and granites echoing the shades of local sand and stone of the bay. Azerai Ke Ga Bay, situated 2.5 hours drive from Ho Chi Minh City, overlooks an expansive 5km stretch of white sand along the East Sea. This lush and private resort is nestled in 4.5 hectares of verdant gardens and its distinctive location provides a tranquil setting, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Photo credits: Balcony Media Group
French-Cambodian Style, Luxuriously Updated for Modern Tastes
The two-bedroom Royal Villa at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor offers the ultimate in residential luxury, with a butler, pool access, master king and twin bedrooms, a spacious living and dining room and private terrace, three bathrooms, and a kitchen with views of the landscaped gardens at the historic heritage hotels’s iconic swimming pool. The 318sqm villa can accommodate up to six guests and, like all of the rooms and suites at the hotel, it is elegantly decorated in the French-Cambodian style of a bygone era, luxuriously updated for modern tastes. Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor was named one of the world’s “500 Best Hotels” by the industry-leading Travel + Leisure magazine in April for a third straight year. Originally opened in 1932, the hotel was built as a rest stop for archeologists and adventurers seeking to explore the ancient kingdom of Angkor Wat, which is today one of the most popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Photo credits: Balcony Media Group
Spacious Oceanfront Luxury Villas in Da Nang, Vietnam
Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang launched earlier this year in central Vietnam. The spacious beachfront resort overlooking the East Sea is spread across more than 15 hectares, with the palatial Five Bedroom Beachfront Pool Villa standing as the epitome of coastal bliss. Spanning an expansive 717sqm of indoor space, the villa comprises a majestic two-story main house featuring four king-size ensuite bedrooms and a twin room, complemented by large dining and living areas. The villa also offers a 150sqm private lounging area and pool, providing the utmost in tranquility on Non Nuoc Beach. Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang offers 85 upscale private villas in addition to a 157-key hotel tower.
Photo credits: Balcony Media Group
Paradisiacal Privacy in Phuket
One of Phuket’s most desirable properties, Trisara is renowned for its paradisiacal privacy. Its collection of residences perched directly over the resort’s bay — which range in size from two-bed units to multi-bedroom configurations—rank among the most spectacular in Thailand. The pick of the residences is Villa Sawan, an eight-bedroom “resort within a resort”. Home to ocean-facing views, lush gardens, and use of a cove with a private beach at the foot of the property, Villa Sawan is the ultimate exclusive escape. Guests can take a dip in the Andaman Sea or unwind by swimming laps in the 25-metre swimming pool. Staff are available and on-call throughout the stay. The villa also features a home cinema, a well-equipped gym, and spa facilities. Expansive suites, sea-facing verandahs, and extensive swimming pools are prominent in all the residences’ blend of indoor and outdoor spaces that lend themselves to intimate gatherings. Adding lustre to the proceedings is the fact that all the villas are catered for by a dedicated maid and chef who prepares home-cooked Thai and Western dishes on demand and by request. With privacy guaranteed, the residences are also perfect for special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, marriage proposals or celebrations with extended family or with groups of friends.
Photo credits: Balcony Media Group
Infinity-Edge Pools With Mesmerizing Sea Views
Laguna Lang Co has burnished its status as one of Vietnam’s most alluring integrated destinations courtesy of its recently launched three-bedroom Banyan Tree Seaview Pool Villas. Laid out along a jungle-clad mountainside at the northern end of the property and perched at an altitude of 45 to 75 meters above sea level, the ultra-luxe villas rank among the most desirable accommodations in the nation. The villas, each of which spans an expansive 260sqm, offer three bedrooms with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass that optimizes the mesmerizing sea view. Private living spaces feature tasteful, contemporary furnishings, carefully chosen artworks and subtle exterior and interior design influenced by the traditional architecture of Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, which is an hour’s drive north of Lang Co. Each unit has its own outdoor heated infinity-edge pool. Long views over the ocean towards Laguna’s 3km-long stretch of private beach are arguably the most outstanding feature of the villas.
Photo credits: Balcony Media Group
A Famous Indonesian Architect’s Former Abode in Ubud
Once the private retreat of one of Indonesia’s foremost designer-architects, the Hadiprana Estate at Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana, is a sanctuary within a sanctuary. The 570-square-meter (6,135-square-feet), two-bedroom villa features private en-suites, with the master bath anchored by a secluded, sunken outdoor Jacuzzi. A spacious deck and bale surrounds a 10-meter long swimming pool. A museum-worthy collection of art and artifacts, collected by the late Hendra Hadiprana himself, graces the white-washed brick walls and complement the modern Balinese furnishings of this completely private residence.
Photo credits: Balcony Media Group
Multigenerational Travel a Breeze at Cavernous Oceanfront Pavilion
Alma’s crisp and contemporary three-bedroom oceanfront pool pavilions each command some 224sqm on the buttermilk sands on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula. The luxurious pavilions each afford a private pool with an infinity edge, four bathrooms, a vast living room and kitchen just a few steps from Long Beach’s aquamarine waters with islands strewn offshore. The design of the oversized accommodations caters to multigenerational travel for up to four generations; there’s a bathroom and toilet each for the children, the parents, the grandparents and either the great-grandparents or the in-laws. A big fold-out sofa and a large table in the living room encourage families to come together to talk, share a meal and play board games.
Photo credits: Balcony Media Group
Dreamy Villas For The Honeymooners
The Anam Cam Ranh, a luxurious 12-hectare resort overlooking Long Beach on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula, is home to two exquisite villas just for honeymooners, each replete with a private pool, jacuzzi, steam and sauna room and daily afternoon tea. With a design inspired by Vietnam’s Indochine era, the 180-square-metre ‘Honeymoon Villas’ are both set on 400 square metres of lush hillside land located adjacent to the grounds of the resort’s tranquil 10-treatment room spa. The picture-perfect one-bedroom villas each feature a separate living room, jacuzzi, steam and sauna room and private terrace with sun loungers overlooking a glassy-surfaced 40-square-metre private pool. The villas’ romantic appeal draws on the Indochine period with the likes of imperial style roofs, big-bellied water vases, lanterns, and customized mosaic tiles.
The festive season is a time for celebration, reflection, and cherished moments with loved ones. This year, Angsana Velavaru, nestled in the idyllic Maldives, invites guests to embrace the spirit of the holidays with a series of unique events and unforgettable experiences from 21 December to 07 January, the resort will host a series of exclusive events and activities that capture the heartwarming essence of the holidays while celebrating the beauty and culture of the Maldives.
Photo credits: Angsana Velavaru
The festive journey at Angsana Velavaru is designed to create magical memories through 101 exciting ways to celebrate. From the arrival of Santa to an exclusive New Year’s Eve countdown party, each moment promises to immerse guests in the joy and warmth of the season. The island’s vibrant celebrations begin on December 21, with the lighting of the resort’s grand Christmas tree. This spectacular moment marks the beginning of an unforgettable holiday experience, where guests can bask in the festive glow of the tree and prepare for the exciting events to follow.
On December 24, the island comes alive with the arrival of Santa, who brings joy to all with his merry visit. Later, guests are invited to a festive cocktail party where holiday carols fill the air, followed by a lively red-and-white DJ party at the Kuredhi Pool Bar. For those seeking a more tranquil celebration, the resort offers a Christmas Eve Gala Dinner at Kaani Restaurant, where guests can indulge in a specially curated feast that combines local Maldivian flavours with global festive favourites.
The magic continues on December 25 with a Santa Meet & Greet, where children can meet the jolly man in person, creating cherished memories. Afterward, the resort will host a special Christmas Movie Night under the stars, offering guests a chance to relax and enjoy festive films in a magical tropical setting.
As the year comes to a close, the festive spirit peaks with an Innovative Cocktail Counter on December 31, where guests can indulge in creative cocktails that add an extra sparkle to the final moments of 2024. The highlight of the holiday season arrives with the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and Countdown Party, offering a glamorous celebration to bid farewell to the old year and welcome in the new with style.
Festivities at Angsana Velavaru extend far beyond seasonal events. The resort offers an extensive range of activities designed to engage all guests, regardless of age or interests. Watersports enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, with an array of exhilarating options available,
Once a misunderstood term, 'influencer' has now become one of the most sought-after careers, with over 98,000 creators in the UK alone reaching an audience of 5,000 or more followers on Instagram. For aspiring (and existing) influencers – that dream is now within reach. Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, an all-natural island floating on crystal-clear waters in the remote Shaviyani Atoll, has unveiled its 'Millionaire for a Month' giveaway where one lucky winner will enjoy a 30-day escape to this breathtaking 120-villa, 5-star Maldivian resort, experiencing their full spectrum of villa accommodations, thrilling island adventures and a secluded slice of paradise – 'filling their feed' with pictures of paradise.
Photo credits: Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort
THE PRIZE
As the “Millionaire for a Month” winner, you and your guest will enjoy a 30-day escape at Sirru Fen Fushi, rotating weekly through the resort's most exclusive villas. The stay progresses from the Sunset Deluxe Beach Villa in week one, to the unique Safari Tent Villa in week two, the Water Villa Sunrise for an overwater experience in week three, ending with the luxurious Grand Water Villa in the final week. This all-inclusive retreat covers gourmet dining, seaplane transfers, and an itinerary filled with unforgettable experiences: private beach dinners, dolphin-watching, rejuvenating spa treatments, snorkelling adventures, and evenings at the jungle cinema.
TO ENTER
The competition is open to Instagram users aged 18 or older at the time of entry. Multiple entries are allowed, as long as each submission adheres to the specified competition guidelines. Best of all, there's no minimum follower requirement – as long as you have a public Instagram profile, you're eligible to enter. Entries will be judged by the creativity, quality, and engagement and can be submitted until 26th November 2024:
• Step 1: Follow @sirrufenfushi.maldives on Instagram
• Step 2: Post your most profound travel memory or a Maldives-inspired photo using the hashtag #SirruMillionaire
• Step 3: Tag a travel buddy in your post with whom you'd like to share this adventure of a lifetime with
• Step 4: Share your post on your Instagram story as well, tagging @sirrufenfushi.maldives
ISLAND CONTENT CREATOR
The winner will capture and share their island experience in line with the following requirements:
• Daily Content: A minimum of three Instagram Stories posted each day on specified social channels, tagging @sirrufenfushi.maldives
• Weekly Posts:
- At least three permanent posts per week on Instagram or other agreed-upon platforms
- Five Instagram Reel videos per week, with each video showcasing different aspects of the stay in 10-15 second clips
- A set of 50 high-quality images delivered weekly, highlighting the villas, island scenery, and experiences. Final edits must be provided with full usage rights granted to Sirru Fen Fushi, including non-exclusive, worldwide, perpetual, and irrevocable rights for digital and print publication, including third-party use.
For more information and T&C's, visit https://sirrufenfushi.com/millionaire-for-a-month/.
Sun Siyam Resorts is enhancing the all-inclusive experience in the Maldives with the launch of its 24-hour, resort-wide all-inclusive plan, available across all properties as of November 1st 2024.
Photo credits: Sun Siyam Resorts
The new 24-hour all-inclusive plan has been launched following the success and demand for Siyam World's premium 24 hour all-inclusive which has laid the foundation for its expansion across all resorts. Additionally, in resorts with multiple meal plans, booking data indicates that in 2024, 85% of British guests choose all-inclusive over BB, HB and FB options.
Aside from dining options in multiple restaurants and premium drinks, the popularity of Sun Siyam Resorts all-inclusive product is due to the extensive selection of activities – all included. From snorkeling safaris and dolphin cruises to sunset fishing and spa or watersports credit, each curated experience caters to every traveller, whether they seek relaxation, adventure, or both.
With this new 24-hour all-inclusive approach, Sun Siyam Resorts sets a new benchmark for flexible but attainable, worry-free travel, delivering incredible value and endless ways to enjoy the beauty and culture of the Maldives without add-ons and hidden costs.
Photo credits: Sun Siyam Resorts
Each resort brings its own unique touch to the all-inclusive experience: Iru Veli's premium all-inclusive Signature Plan covers activities like paddleboarding, windsurfing, and even offers jet ski or spa credits along with three excursions. At Siyam World, the WOW! premium all-inclusive plan offers unlimited access to Siyam Water World—the Maldives' largest floating water park, various excursions to choose from, and 24/7 dining and entertainment within 18 bars and restaurants. Iru Fushi's all-inclusive package and dine-around meal plan in more than 15 restaurants and bars, offers serene, day-to-night luxury, delivering drinks and bites on demand, while Vilu Reef and Olhuveli both feature all-inclusive dine-around packages with waterfront bars that welcome guests at all hours.
For more information visit www.sunsiyam.com
This holiday season, Palace Hotel Tokyo is presenting travelers with the opportunity to celebrate ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ in splendor and style, replete with artful Christmas cakes and a host of fine-dining experiences to choose from.
Photo credits: Palace Hotel Tokyo
As one of the city’s most lauded hotels, Palace Hotel Tokyo is also one of the most elegant each festive season. This year, the centerpiece, 16-foot Christmas tree standing tall in the lobby moat-side will be decked out in red and gold baubles while elsewhere, installations inspired by snow-kissed treetops reflecting the golden hues of moon-lit nights bring a hint of the outdoors in.
Designed to bring a touch of home to a luxurious holiday getaway, ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ includes:
One night’s accommodation in a choice of a Deluxe with Balcony or Grand Deluxe room
Choice of breakfast in-room or at Grand Kitchen
An assortment of home-made Christmas cookies presented in a limited-edition tin
A 5.5-foot-tall, in-room Christmas tree decorated with lights and red and gold ornaments
Available for stays between December 20-25, rates for ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ start at JPY 183,000.*
*Inclusive of consumption tax, excludes 15% service charge & accommodation tax of JPY 200 per person, per night
Additional festive touches on offer include Champagne or a beautiful Christmas bouquet in-room as well as a Gâteau aux Fraises resembling a snow-kissed flower and made with strawberries grown at a farm in Ibaraki prefecture especially chosen by the hotel’s pastry chef.
At Esterre, the hotel’s one-Michelin-starred contemporary French restaurant in partnership with DUCASSE Paris, a six-course Christmas dinner menu will feature lobster bisque, steamed ezo awabi (abalone) with barigoule-style vegetables, and beef tenderloin with truffled winter vegetables.
At Wadakura, Palace Hotel Tokyo’s signature Japanese restaurant, its exquisite winter kaiseki course menu will be all about crab – including Kobako hairy crab, crabmeat dumpling, sashimi with Matsuba crab, and grilled Taraba crab with crab cream croquette. At GO, the hotel’s popular teppanyaki grill, a Christmas menu featuring seared red bream, Zuwai crab and Matsusaka beef will be served up.
Those who enjoy European-style Christmas breads and cakes but expect to miss out on them while spending the holidays in Japan will be delighted to discover that the hotel’s pastry shop, Sweets & Deli, presents an array of home-baked stollen, kugelhopf, berawecka and panettone each December – including some with a uniquely Japanese twist.
In addition to classics – such as berawecka packed with nuts and liquor-soaked dried fruits, and panettone with orange peel and sultana raisins baked with home-made panettone yeast – there’s a bohnen stollen made with yuzu-flavored marzipan and kinako (soybean flour), a ruby stollen made with dried rambutan, cranberries and almonds, and a limited-edition praline stollen featuring fruits soaked in litchi liqueur. There’s also a kugelhopf de Noël baked with sweet chestnuts mixed into its moist matcha dough and finished with a raspberry chocolate glaze.
Located in the city’s upscale Marunouchi district, Palace Hotel Tokyo is situated a stone’s throw away from Marunouchi Naka Dori, the tree-lined boulevard that’s breathtakingly illuminated each winter season along the 1.2 kilometers that stretches from the hotel past the landmark Tokyo Station to Yurakucho, at the edge of Ginza.
For more information on Palace Hotel Tokyo, please visit: www.palacehoteltokyo.com.
The landmark hotel, residing within a 1930s Grade II listed building in the heart of London, will unveil a unique "Reader's Retreat" suite, specially curated by Emily to immerse The Level guests in the world of literature during their stay.
Meliá White House's premium service, The Level, offers guests staying in Level Rooms or upgraded suites an elevated experience, including a turn down service, complimentary breakfast, and upgraded amenities. Each Level stay will also offer access to The Level Lounge, London's first members-style service, serving tapas, snacks and drinks throughout the day.
Photo credits: Meliá White House
The recently renovated hotel will transform its largest and most luxurious Level rooms and suites into a poetic paradise for book-lovers and culture enthusiasts to enjoy and unwind. The Reader's Retreat will feature an eclectic selection of handpicked books reflecting the essence of Meliá White House and the local area.
The Level guests can request a set of books in their room with the concierge on arrival, or enjoy the collection as they relax in the exclusive Level Lounge.
Dive into Emily's top picks for perfect winter reads: The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier, a spellbinding novel; cosy crime short stories Silent Nights, edited by Martin Edwards; the classic The Lonely Londoners by Sam Selvon; The Siege by Ben Macintyre, a gripping account of the siege of London's Iranian embassy; and Right Kind of Wrong: How the Best Teams Use Failure to Succeed by Amy Edmondson. Guests can purchase their own copies at beloved local bookshop Daunt Books.
Emily Rhodes is a renowned writer and literary leader, with features and reviews published in the likes of Financial Times, Spectator and the Guardian. Since 2012, Emily has hosted a Walking Book Club in Hampstead Heath and recently launched the club in Regent's Park, just a stone's throw away from Meliá White House. Each guest staying in the Reader's Retreat suite will receive a personalised invitation to join Emily's Walking Book club, alongside a community of literary enthusiasts from across the world.
Emily also founded the Daunt Books Festival in 2014, and more recently the phenomenal charity Bookbanks, which brings books to food banks across London.
On 20th November, the launch of Reader's Retreat will be celebrated with the third Supper Club hosted in the hotel's Mediterranean-inspired Arado Restaurant, offering an evening of inspired dining and conversation. Guests can dive into discussions about their favourite reads with Emily herself, alongside discovering her journey as an leading female writer, journalist and founder.
The Q&A will be followed by a seasonal three-course meal, curated with locally sourced ingredients and a nod to Meliá's Mediterranean heritage. Delicious canapes will be served ahead of a range of sharing starters, before your choice of main and dessert. Vegan options will also be available.
Start the evening with a selection of canapes including Truffled Brie & Plum Chutney Bruschetta, Porcini mushroom arancini, Grilled Octopus with Chimichurri Sauce or 24 hour Smoked Short Ribs with Tamarind & Pomegranate Glaze.
For mains, the Beef Wellington is served with a warming Dauphinoise Potato, roasted baby vegetables, carrot puree, wild mushrooms & red wine jus. Guests can also choose from the Duo of Black Cod with Confit peas, clams, sea asparagus & burnt leek puree with a seafood bisque sauce or Pecan Nut Roast, paired with Beluga lentil, chestnut mushroom, cheddar cheese, port & cranberry jus.
Tuck into a perfect winter dessert and choose from the Christmas Pudding, brandy sauce and fresh berries, Sticky Toffee Pudding with pistachio ice-cream and caramel sauce, Petit Four, a Christmas classic Mince Pie, or Vegan Cheesecake. You can view the full menus HERE.
Tickets to the third edition of the Meliá White House Supper Club Series with Emily Rhodes are priced at £60 per person, this includes a three-course Festive Menu, a welcome drink, wine and soft drinks. Book now via Eventbrite.
Emily Rhodes shared her excitement about the project: “I've always believed that what we read can profoundly influence our interpretation of where we are. It is a privilege and delight to curate a collection of great books for people staying in the heart of London, and I can't wait to share it with others through the upcoming Supper Club.”
The Reader's Retreat will be available for bookings from November, offering guests a peaceful sanctuary to unwind, reflect, and indulge in the timeless pleasure of reading.
Meliá White House last year revealed an extensive £40 million transformation; uncovering a new soul for the superior deluxe hotel. The hotel has been reimagined as a true destination hotel upscaling its bedrooms & suites, restaurant and hotel spaces including The Level service & lounge.
Carbis Bay Estate are delighted to announce the launch of POD St Ives, a new luxury glamping offering set amidst the scenic beauty of St Ives and Carbis Bay defining 'The Art of Glamping.'
Photo credits: Carbis Bay Estate
POD St Ives offers a range of five glamping pods, from quirky one-bedroom mezzanine boltholes with outdoor bathtubs to expansive two-bedroom lodges with private hot tubs.
The PODS start from £295 per night and there are three styles to choose from:
SPA POD: Sleeps 4 in two large ensuite bedrooms with cosy, comfortable beds and soft fluffy duvets and pillows, a living space flooded with light in which to relax and unwind by the fire, and fully fitted kitchens with a stunning breakfast bar and seating provide the perfect perch for gathering while cooking or entertaining. Outside is a snug covered decking area with snuggle-up sofas for evening star gazing, and steps leading to the enclosed Cornish walled garden where a hot tub, outdoor shower and woodstove can be found.
FAMILY POD: Sleeps 4 in two bedrooms, one double and one cosy twin with comfortable beds, home-from-home styling, fully fitted kitchen and open plan living space with TV, sofas and a feature fire. An enclosed Cornish walled garden with hot tub, outdoor kitchen and terrace.
MEZZANINE POD: Quirky and packed with comfort and style, one-bed glamping pods, perfect for a couple's bolthole, feature a mezzanine level which offers a magical glamping experience with a quirky twisting wooden tree-shaped spiral staircase leading to the raised sleeping area. Outside, a decked area with sofa seating leads to the enclosed garden with a copper bathtub and shower for a soak under the stars.
Stays all include a continental breakfast delivered to your door each morning, and whilst guests are welcome to enjoy the restaurants and deli café at Carbis Bay, the Concierge team can also arrange to stock their larder with food and drinks, and any treats for their stay. There is also a delivery menu of grazing boards and handmade pizzas available for 'Pod-service'.
Photo credits: Carbis Bay Estate
All PODS have parking and private enclosed gardens and are dog friendly. Guests can also enjoy access to soon-to-launch "Nest Spa Garden," featuring a treatment room, a sauna cabin, relaxing spa seating and an ice bath for those brave enough for a dip! All guests of POD St Ives also receive complimentary access to the C Bay Spa at Carbis Bay Estate to use the facilities including a heated outdoor swimming pool, hydro pool, sauna cabin, fitness suite, and a yoga room. Spa treatments can also be booked in the privacy of your own pod.
Owner of Carbis Bay Estate Stephen Baker said “We are proud to introduce POD St Ives, part of the Carbis Bay Collection, an innovative glamping experience that combines luxury with the natural beauty of Cornwall's coastline. Our aim is to offer guests an immersive retreat where they can unwind and reconnect with nature, while enjoying the exceptional amenities and comfort that define Carbis Bay Estate. POD St Ives represents our commitment to creating unforgettable, sustainable travel experiences in this incredible location."
POD St Ives provides an oasis of tranquillity in which to reconnect with nature all year round. Located close to the towns of St Ives and Carbis Bay with their many beaches, POD St Ives is perfectly placed to explore the local walks on the doorstep, activities, restaurants, bars, and local events.
Japan’s Setouchi region invites art lovers and cultural explorers to embark on an inspiring journey through its rich heritage and stunning landscapes. This enchanting destination offers a deep dive into Japan’s history of art and cultural tapestry, featuring historic landmarks, traditional craftsmanship, and breathtaking vistas through a variety of unforgettable experiences.
Photo credits: Setouchi Journeys
A Picturesque Voyage Aboard the La Malle de Bois Art Train
Step aboard La Malle de Bois, which translates as ‘a wooden suitcase’, that elegantly winds through the Setouchi region and along the coastline of the Seto Inland Sea. This scenic journey is a moving gallery both inside and out with monochromatic artwork on the exterior and a dedicated exhibition space showcasing works by contemporary artists - presenting travellers with awe-inspiring views and artistic inspirations from the heart of Japan. La Malle de Bois not only provides modern comforts, including bookshelves filled with books about art and space for bicycle storage which is very rare on Japanese trains, but also pays homage to traditional Japanese art and craftsmanship, ensuring a travel experience steeped in beauty and culture.
Throughout the year, La Malle de Bois runs on 4 routes: Okayama–Uno, Okayama–Onomichi, Okayama–Hinase and Okayama–Kotohira.Each of them providing access to major tourist destinations in the SetoInland Sea. Those visiting this autumn, can enjoy "The Forest Festival of the Arts Okayama" with a special route providing access to installations by artists, musicians, architects, flower artists and chefs that celebrate forests and Japanese nature. The festival is being held between 28th September to 24th November in twelve cities and towns including Tsuyama, Nimi, Maniwa and Kagamino in the Chugoku Mountains in the northern part of Okayama.
Train prices range from £6.40 to £13.40 depending on destination. Reservations for meals can be made
from one month prior and up to three days before the journey. Options include a Setouchi Sweets Box (Yen 1,500 Yen) of five mini tarts using local seasonal fruits, and an Okayama Barazushi Travelling Small Box (Yen 1,350) featuring local specialities from the Seto Inland Sea. Reservations for bike storage space can be made from 10.00am one month prior up until a day before travel.
Photo credits: Setouchi Journeys
Explore the Historic Charm of Takehara Townscape Conservation Area
Step into history in Takehara City, Hiroshima, where the Takehara Townscape Conservation Area offers a glimpse into Japan’s storied past. This area boasts over 100 well-preserved townhouses dating back over 400 years and testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Stroll the streets, visit the Takehara City Museum of History and Folklore (open 10am-4pm with last admission at 15:30, closed on Tuesdays and between December 27-January 3) or time a visit during seasonal events including the springtime Hinamatsuri festival - a display of Japanese “Hina Dolls” where visitors pray for the growth and happiness of girls, or the autumn Illumination festival when the town is lit up with bamboo candles.
Visitors can also discover the time-honoured tradition of bamboo craftsmanship and try their hand at traditional bamboo weaving with instruction from an expert craftsman. Renowned for its bamboo works, this city has been a central hub for this art form since the era of salt production. Its name synonymous with this tradition, Takehara, meaning bamboo plain in Japanese. Today, Takehara’s bamboo artisans continue to create a diverse array of items, from practical tools to intricate decorative pieces such as bamboo baskets and ornaments.Visitors can join the bamboo craft experience, learning this age old tradition of experts and take home a memento. The Takehara Machinami Bamboo Workshop is open between 9:30 and 16:00 (closed for national holidays and over the new year).
Photo credits: Setouchi Journeys
Immersion in The Art Islands of Setouchi
Visit the Art Islands of Setouchi - Naoshima, Teshima and Inujima - as part of a four-day tour of an areawhere contemporary art and traditional Japanese culture coexist. The combination of striking architectural designs, innovative art installations, and serene island landscapes creates a rich cultural fusion that attracts global art lovers, architects, and travellers seeking a unique and immersive experience.
Naoshima is the most famous of Setouchi’s art islands and The Benesse Art Site Naoshima project, overseen by art collector and patron Soichiro Fukutake, has transformed Naoshima into a canvas for contemporary art. The project integrates art with architecture, creating a blend of modern design and the natural landscape. Here visitors will find Tadao Ando’s unique architecture, masterpieces by Monet and Warhol, and the Art House Project which transforms traditional Japanese houses into art spaces.
Opened in April 2022, Naoshima Ryokan ROKA is a luxury ryokan that exemplifies the fusion oftraditional Japanese architectural style with modern design elements. This ryokan reflects the island’s art trend by integrating contemporary artworks into its space, providing eleven suites with open-air baths,Awaji earthen walls used in art sites, handmade Japanese paper from Tosa that conveys a thousand years of history and tradition, stepping stones from Aji, the highest quality and most expensive stone in Japan. And floor to ceiling picture windows that allow guests to immerse themselves in the island’s artistic atmosphere.
Photo credits: Setouchi Journeys
An Artistic Base in Okayama
A&A HOTEL is a unique concept in Okayama - a series of rental accommodations created in collaboration with world-renowned contemporary artists and leading Japanese architects that act as a portal to experiencing the city. The idea behind the project, launched by the Ishikawa Foundation, is to promote art and culture in Okayama, blending contemporary comforts with local hospitality and revitalising the local community. Currently there are two houses available offering two double bedrooms and an extraordinary experience staying in a work of art. A&A Jonathan Hasewaga, is a merging of three spaces with three with distinct personalities, which provides a unique experience as guests transition through the different spaces. A&A Liam Fuji is a mathematical tribute to Syukuro “Suki” Manabe, Liam’s esteemed Nobel Prize winning physicist Syukuro “Suki” Manabe and the science of climate change.
The project is expected to continue to add more spaces for visitors to enjoy over the next two decades. Rates start from £221 per night (correct as of September 2024), check in from 3pm-8pm and check out at 11am.
All these experiences are part of Setouchi Journeys, a series of 23 carefully curated tours through the Setouchi region that last between three and five days. For more information visit https://www.setouchi.travel/en/setouchi-journeys.
The Setouchi Region is located in western Japan and surrounds Japan’s largest inland sea. To access the region from the UK there are direct flights to Tokyo from London Heathrow with British Airways and Japan Airlines, from there it is a 4.5 - 5 hour journey via Shinkansen to stations in the region including Shin-Kobe, Himeji, Okayama, Hiroshima and Shin-Yamaguchi.
