Review of The Four Seasons Langkawi - Malaysia

The island of Langkawi (officially Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah) is home to some of the most spectacular beaches where you are sure to be in awe as you gaze upon the soft, white, iridescent sand. We were lucky enough stay at the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi on this beautiful island and even though we had experienced Four Seasons stays before we are always so pleasantly surprised as to how accommodating and incredible our stay always is. Surrounded by bold blue skies, lovely teal oceans and an abundance of Malay jungle, nature lovers are sure to feel as though they’ve gone to heaven at the Four Seasons. The property also boasts a 1.4 km long immaculate beach surrounded by beamingly green rainforests.

Watch the Sunset and enjoy a drink at Rhu Bar

Langkawi was our first introduction to the country of Malaysia, drawing us in as it was very easy to travel to by plane from Australia and as we soon found out is honestly just as much of a paradise island as the Maldives or any other island you may have on your bucket list. We spent our time enjoying all the experiences the resort had to offer and sipping on cocktails made by their very own mixologist Surinder while watching the sunset on the striking beach at Rhu Bar.

Even though we were in Langkawi during the so-called rainy season (between May and September), we can tell you that there was hardly any rain during our stay. On the days that it did rain it would happen very early in the morning and completely clear up in an hour or two with no signs of it ever having rained at all. We were told that this was quite common in Langkawi and that it very rarely rains for a whole day straight.   

The Four Seasons gave us the pleasure of spending a few nights in two different rooms on their property which were both equally as exquisite as each other. Our first room was perched up on the second floor, the stairs and the façade of the room had a very rustic and bungalow-like feel which matched its surroundings fantastically. As we reached our room we saw that the walls were glass doors which looked out onto the impeccably trimmed green field which led to the adult quiet pool. The view of the greenery on this property was breathtaking as each hedge was trimmed and each flower pruned to perfection. The interior of the room was enormous with extremely high ceilings to match making you feel as though you were outside even though you weren’t. With dark stained flooring and furniture to match we felt very luxurious while also being able to enjoy a jungle inspired theme.

The second room was on the ground floor with the same exquisite glass walls which looked out onto the ocean in the distance. The interiors of both rooms were consistent in décor but this time we had a large outdoor jacuzzi/bath in the backyard. This was such a unique experience as the tall trees surrounded our jacuzzi tub from all angles. We sat there gazing onto the forested hills above while relaxing in our oasis of bubbles.

Our second lower level Villa at the Four Seasons Langkawi

Wherever we went on the resort we could hear the gorgeous chirping of many species of birds, monkeys and other fascinating creatures. However, if you think you can hear monkeys you may want to check twice as the drongos birds have a talent of imitating them quite well. If you are in an adventurous mood you can also take hikes into the dense rainforests and experience these creatures in their natural habitats.

Dine on the Beach at Kapala Grill, Four Seasons Resort Langkawi

Morning Yoga at the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi

One of our favourite activities on the island was the complimentary morning yoga class held at the Four Seasons green field which had a view of a large lily pond and of course the glorious ocean in the background. It was just the most ideal way to start the day with the most unreal view accompanying it. We also thoroughly enjoyed the mangroves tour we took with the Four Seasons’ resident and most experienced naturalist Aidi Abdullah. It was a leisurely 3-hour tour through the mangroves of Langkawi taking the best stops along the way to gaze upon hundreds of soaring eagles, getting up close and personal with the monkeys, vipers, crabs and gliding through narrowly gaping caves which many bats call home. It was an experience we will never forget and we learnt so many amazing things along the way. Aidi’s passion for the mangroves is inspiring and contagious, we would recommend this activity to everyone.

We spent our evenings exploring our enormous resort and dining at the incredible Malay restaurant called Ikan-Ikan as well as the beautiful ocean front restaurant Kelapa Grill where you can let your hair down and feel the soft ocean sand nestled underneath your feet while you dine. There are also activities outside the property you can do if you want to venture out and visit the local town center where they host the night markets or go to the cable cars and Sky Bridge.

Whether you’re a beach bum or an occasional stroller by the sea, the waters are perfectly warm and inviting making each dip a most pleasant experience. We advise you to roll out your towel on the soft sand and have a dip in the ocean at least once. If you are not interested, there are many pools which cater to non-beach goers. The quiet adult pool was a very relaxing and indulgent experience but there is also a family pool which is just a beautiful and kid friendly. The property also offers archery classes for their guests, rock climbing, sailing, surfing, canoeing and much more if you are so inclined.

The adult quiet pool at the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi features private enclaves for couples to enjoy the uninhibited infinity pool views of the perfect sunset.

It is safe to say that we look forward to exploring more of Malaysia in the near future and cannot wait for another opportunity to return to the Four Seasons Langkawi and bask in its glorious beauty once again.  

Sofitel Queenstown - Hotel & Spa | Luxury accommodation in the Centre of Queenstown - New Zealand

New Zealand. Australia’s little cousin to the east. What’s the appeal? We recently discovered it after our stay at the elegant and re-imagined Sofitel Queenstown.

Queenstown is a visually beautiful resort town situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu on New Zealand’s South Island. The city and its natural surrounds are a mecca for adrenaline junkies year round with beautiful snow making it one of the best ski spots this side of the World.

Following a scenic 2 hour something flight from Sydney, we were collected and whisked away in a hotel supplied luxury transfer. Within 10 minutes we arrived at our destination. The Sofitel Queenstown. One of the few hotels right in the centre of Queenstown and, in our view, the leading traditional luxury property in the region.

We were greeted at the door and escorted directly to our room - Penthouse No.10 - with an in-room check-in. I am unsure whether in-room check-in is standard at the property, but it is one of the little benefits that kicks any stay off on a great note.

But what is Penthouse No.10? It’s not the 10th penthouse. The property only has 2 penthouse type rooms. The other, being the junior penthouse so to speak, is Penthouse No.5. While it’s on the top level, that’s only level 6 and not level 10. My best guess at solving the riddle of the name is that it is a 10 out of 10 room.

General Manager Jeremy Samuels explained that the room was recently renovated to make it a true catered penthouse. And the team behind it did an incredible job. Without exaggeration, Penthouse No 10 at the Sofitel Queenstown is one of, if not, the best designed and appointed rooms in the classical luxury style we have stayed in.

The penthouse in its single bedroom layout is 225sqm (or 2,422sqft). It features a perfectly appointed and spacious dining and lounge room with mountain views, opening up onto balcony some 25metres in length. From the balcony you can enjoy unihibi

ted views through Queenstown, the nearby mountains, or the iconic Lake Wakatipu. But if you want to take the experience to the next level, you would notice the full sized hot tub/jacuzzi. We noticed it and had a hard time leaving.

For the cold nights, we made the cinema room our sanctuary. For ambience, it featured a beautiful gas fireplace. For entertainment, the impressive flat screen had Netflix (with a Sofitel Queenstown account), an Xbox Live and AppleTV. But there was more on offer with a sound system fitte throughout, controllable via provided iPads.

The master bathroom was decked out floor to ceiling in elegant stone, with a stylish freestanding bathtub, large double shower, twin vanities for him and her, and bathroom amenities by Parisian fashion house Hermes.

What we love

• Lake and Mountain Views.

• Centre of Queenstown.

• Huge Penthouse

• Balcony with 6 seater Jacuzzi.

• Breakfasts at Left Bank Cafe
  
  

Ajman Saray - Luxury Waterfront in the Emirate of Ajman, UAE

We all know Dubai - a part of the United Arab Emirates oozing with luxury in every niche. But the United Arab Emirates is more than just Dubai. A short drive north from Dubai (and through the emirate of Sharjah) is the Emirate of Ajman.

After an incredible stay at the newly opened Renaissance Downtown Hotel (with incredible views of the Burj Khalifa) we had plans to extend our journey to the UAE’s smallest Emirate. We booked an Uber (which in Dubai means a licensed private limousine service) and after only 40 minutes found ourselves at Ajman Saray, A Luxury Collection Resort on the pristine coast of Ajman.

Ajman Saray is located on an absolute waterfront resort strip in good company, with the 5 star Fairmont Ajman, Ajman Hotel and Ajman Palace as neighbours. On arrival you are greeted by a beautiful traditional grand Arabic designed driveway.

The public spaces of the property are similarly adorned in the traditional Arabic style. While the lobby does not match the granduer of the neighbouring Fairmont, it doesn’t disappoint.

Lounging on the beach by the sea, or by the pool, was clearly a favourite for guests at Ajman Saray. The pool area was beautifully designed with sufficient privacy provided through a range of lounges and cabanas. Unlike at the neighbouring Fairmont which catered to families, the primary guests at Ajman Saray were couples. This gave it a more peaceful and sophisticated feel to the pool and beach area.

View from the Room

Our westward facing room overlooked the pool which provided us with uninhibited views of an every changing sunset. These could be enjoyed from the balcony, through the oversized windows or from the comfort of the full-sized bathtub.

What We Loved

• Waterfront rooms.

• Beautiful Pool area and Public Spaces;

• Arabic Restaurant on site (seriously - this is rare in the UAE).

• Affordable luxury a stone throw away from Dubai.

Villa Bayuh Sabbha - Bali, Indonesia

Perched on a cliff top, 50 metres above the dazzling azure sea, with spectacular bird’s eye views from the dramatic Bukit Peninsula to Bali’s southern coastline and beyond to Java, five-bedroomed Bayuh Sabbha languishes over three sprawling acres of glorious tropical gardens. This elegant, classic Balinese villa, which includes a self-contained two-bedroom guesthouse, is fully staffed and boasts exceptional facilities, including two pools, a gym, a tennis court and a children’s play area. 

The Silo Cape Town, A Royal Affair

Few hotel openings cause a bigger stir than the one from the iconic Silo hotel in Capetown. The recipe sounded promising, taking an old building with a great location and transform it into something modern and luxurious, while still keeping the boutique atmosphere. Did they pull it off?

The old grain silo complex which is located at the famous Victoria & Alfred waterfront was a thorn in the side for everyone who visited this amazing place. The Royal Portfolio, a family owned and run group of luxury hotels had been looking for a Capetown property for several years and this was the ideal opportunity, though it would be a massive challenge to pull it off. They started working with Thomas Heatherwick to transform the exterior into something contemporary and unique. Besides that, they kept as much of the industrial fixtures as possible on the inside, while only keeping the skeleton of the building on the outside to replace the walls with massive pillowed window bays. This instantly brought all the light inside, while giving the future guests the best views of the city. The interior design was done by Liz Biden, one of the owners of The Royal Portfolio, as she has the amazing gift to decorate their properties like no one else can! Lavish colors, wonderful fabrics, amazing art,… She made sure her eclectic style would give the Silo that edge which people would talk about and remember.

The result is simply stunning and not only is the Silo a new landmark on the Capetonian horizon, it’s also a landmark for the African hotel industry. It might only be open for a year now, but it has already won several awards and it will surely continue doing so. Holding only 28 rooms (8 Silo rooms, 6 superior suites, 7 deluxe superior suites, 4 family suites, 2 royal suites and 1 penthouse) which are spread across the 6 floors, it never feels like staying in a hotel, but more like staying in your private luxury condo in one of the global hotspots.

Upon arrival at the hotel, you’ll straight away get an idea of what’s to come. The small reception area downstairs boosts some amazing artwork, while going hand in hand with some of the architectural remains of the former granary. You’re soon whisked upstairs to be greeted at the main reception area by the friendly staff and a glass of bubbly. Perfect way to start your Silo experience.

We stayed in one of the superior suites and pink was the main color dominating the room. Normally I would avoid such rooms, though in The Silo it just works. The room is divided in two levels, with the lounge, balcony, guest toilet and dining room downstairs, and the bedroom, dressing and bathroom upstairs. The steel beams from the old silo are still visible in the room, though all the luxury and attention to detail makes them almost fade away. And of course, the rooms are covered in natural light thanks to the massive windows which also provides amazing views. From our room we had Table mountain, the Victoria & Alfred waterfront and Signal Hill to greet us every time we looked outside. I’ve stayed countless times at Capetown, but you can’t find better views than these.

The rooms are full of art and beautiful furniture and in every room you’ll find a catalogue telling you the story behind all the art which is mainly sourced locally. The mini-bar is fully stocked and everything is included. Besides a large selection of soft drinks, juices and water, there’s also a bottle of red, white and rosé wine which you can take home, or enjoy during your stay. On one of the side tables there’s a crystal decanter filled with sherry for the ones who enjoy a nightcap.

And while all the furniture, decorations and lovely little details grasp your attention, the “pièce de résistance” has to be the bathroom with its massive free standing bath next to the unique window. There’s a sense of ultimate luxury when entering this part of the room, and you instantly feel transported into a celebrity lifestyle. The opulence just draws you in and it’s going to be a hard task to drag yourself out of that bathroom.

But, the Royal Portfolio always has a trick up their sleeve and this time they know exactly how to get you out of that amazing room. You want to know how? By building a lavish rooftop terrace where you can relax, eat, drink and swim the day away. Most of the terrace is for hotel guest only, though there is smaller section where walk-in guests can also enjoy the views and food. But they have to make a reservation, so it never gets too crowded. The stylish pool is strictly hotel guest only and it’s a real treat cause the views from here are just jaw dropping. The whole city is right in from of you and it feels surreal to be swimming at the top of The Silo while looking over this bustling metropolis.

Rather wind down and relax indoors? No problem, The Silo Spa will make sure you’ll do just that. Located on the 4th floor of the hotel, with views over the Zeitz Mocaa (more on that later) it’s the perfect escape from the city. Not only accessible for guest, but also for people staying elsewhere in the city. The treatment rooms are warm and cozy, and the 24k gold signature treatments will rejuvenate you instantly. Rather break a sweat in the sauna or the gym? It’s at the same location, just a different door.

Of course we need to fuel that body too, so which options would a boutique hotel with only 28 rooms offer? Well, besides The Silo rooftop bar where you can enjoy smaller, though equally tasty dishes, there’s the Willaston bar. Its plush sofas, massive chandeliers and views over the city and Table Mountain are the perfect setting for one of the many amazing cocktails. You can also enjoy an a la carte breakfast here. The main dining experience though can be found in the Granary Café. It’s where the hotel guests enjoy their sumptuous breakfast, but also the place where executive chef Veronica Canha-Hibbert lights up all your taste buds. Reservation is needed cause this place is in high demand. During the weekends there’s the Sunday roast which is already became a favorite among Capetonians. Afternoon tea and the royal tea are my personal favorites at the Granary Café. Nothing beats an afternoon indulgence like this. Contemplating on all of these food options I think it is rather impressive, especially knowing The Silo is located only footsteps away from a vast array of restaurants and even a famous food market.

As mentioned, art is a very important part for The Royal Portfolio family, and not only does The Silo hold many art works in their rooms, they also promote emerging African artists in their own special exhibition space called The Vault. It is located at the lower level and boosts the exposure of the local artists.

If this isn’t enough to satisfy your artistic craving, you might want to check out the Zeitz MOCAA which stands for Museum Of Contemporary Art Africa. It’s the African answer to the Tate Modern in London or the MoMa in New York and it’s located in the former grain silos underneath the hotel. The Silo even includes entrance to the museum for all its guests.

So, looking back at my stay at The Silo, what do I remember most and why would I go back? Well, I will always remember waking up and looking straight onto Lions Head and Table Mountain from my bed. Few thing can beat those views. I’ll remember the interior (room and public areas) even though it might look completely bonkers, it just works and makes sure the past blends perfectly into the present. The Silo promised to be impressive and it absolutely delivered. This new icon just added another star at the Capetown hotel scene, and I’m sure it’s going to shine for a very long time.

Kristof Eyckmans was hosted by The Silo Hotel in January 2018.

Pitalpa Views - Hunter Valley Luxury Home

Pitalpa Views - is a stunning rural retreat in the heart of the Hunter Valley's wine region, a 2 hour drive north of Sydney. The picturesque Hunter region encompasses charming towns and villages, rolling vineyards and olive groves, and splendid national parks of the Hunter Valley, the Upper Hunter and Barrington Tops. The traditionally activities are wine tasting at many of the iconic cellar doors, dining at a range of incredible establishments and, if time permits, playing a round of golf.

Piltapa itself is a newly constructed modern and luxurious 4 bedroom home set on 4.5 picturesque acres in the heart of the Hunter Valley wine region only 2 minutes from the heritage town of Branxton. The house sleeps up to 8 adults but is also well equipped to handle the rigours of a family vacation home.

On arrival, we were greeted by a large outdoor deck with uninhibited rural north facing views of the Royal Ranges and Barrington Tops. The deck quickly became the epicentre of our 5 party retreat. There we enjoyed a relaxing sunset with our favourite glass of locally produced wine; and enjoyed our mornings while the mist lifted exposing an array of local wildlife.

As the temperature dropped we moved in to the living room, featuring a relaxing log fire place. Firewood is kept on the western side of the yard and kindling is also kindly provided. Later, we moved to the fully equipped cinema room which featured comfortable leather reclining chairs, a large flatscreen tv and an endless library of DVDS.

The house is meticulously appointed with a beautiful gourmet gas kitchen, Nespresso machine, log fireplace, huge covered entertaining deck, gas Beefeater BBQ, media room with Foxtel and best of all 180 degree north facing view of the sweeping rural acres, the Royal Ranges and Barrington Tops National Park. The sunrises and sunsets are divine. For the gourmet enthusiast, the kitchen has every appliance you could ever need, including a gas cooktop, oven, dishwasher, microwave, slow cooker/crock pot, food processor, rice cooker, mix master, cake tins, pizza trays and more.

For the gold enthusiast, there is a local challenging and cheerful course at Branxton. For something more refined, we recommend the Crowne Plaza and Cypress Lakes which are less than 15 minutes' drive away.

Piltapa Views is bookable via Stayz: https://www.stayz.com.au/accommodation/nsw/hunter/hunter-valley/193137

Dom Perignon Suite at the New York Palace Hotel

Halekulani Hotel - Hawaii

The Halekulani is an iconic name on Oahu's Waikiki beach. Recently awarded number 1 on the Condé Nast Traveler Reader's Choice Award, expectations were high.

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa - Hawaii

Located on the pristine shore of Ka`anapali Beach sits the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa. The Hyatt Regency Maui is a large resort with over 800 guestrooms featuring private balconies, many with incredible ocean views.

What We Love

• Japengo Maui - an incredible Asian fusion restaurant + sushi bar serving incredibly fresh and creative sushi dishes.
• Drums of the Pacific Luau - Drums of the Pacific takes you on a journey throughout the islands of Polynesia, complete with a traditional imu ceremony and the exotic flavors of native Hawaiian cuisine.
• Black Rock - while further up the beach from the Hyatt Regency (approximately 10 minute walk), you can enjoy fun and safe snorkeling with the chance of seeing sea turtles.
• Open Air Lobby - the Hotel features an incredible open air lobby, leading up to an elevated viewing platform looking over the main pool and Ka`anapali Beach.
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The Luxury Life Team was kindly hosted by the hospitable Hyatt Regency Maui team which included a subsidised room rate, meals and Club Access.

Cordis Hong Kong

With many visits to Hong Kong under my belt I have never taken the opportunity to stay in the bustling district of Mong Kok. Mong Kok on the western side of the Kowloon Peninsula has been described as the "busiest place in the world" and will not disappoint those visiting for shopping, people watching or just being immersed in the market side of Hong Kong.

As luxury travellers options were limited but one property stood out - Cordis Hong Kong. Cordis Hong Kong, formerly Langham Place Hong Kong, was opened in March 2005 and rebranded in August 2015 as the fist Cordis Hotel.

Our top rated luxuy hotel in Mong Kok, Hong Kong

Dining and Bars

Ming Court

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Two-Michelin Star Dining at Ming Court at the Cordis Hong Kong

Blending exquisite Cantonese cuisine with innovative wine pairing, Ming Court has been recognised by Hong Kong & Macau Michelin Guide for eight consecutive years (2009-2016). Ming Court profiles a sophisticated contemporary menu with influences from China, Europe, Australia and Japan. Gracefully chic and adorned in champagne, mother-of-pearl and moonlit tones matched with deep, dark chocolate, Ming Court’s elegant dining room, extends the hotel’s artistic essences and offer an inviting space for dining, combining modern luxury with contemporary Chinese art.

Alibi

Located on the fifth floor of the hotel, the 5,500 square foot urban chic space presents all that a bar should have and a little more, as well as be true to its namesake – a place to escape, wine, dine and be social. Homegrown talent, a wine wall, award-winning mixology and creative cuisine make up the spacious and vibrant venue, styled by award-winning team at Stickman Tribe Design of Dubai and Hong Kong.

Unique to Kowloon, Alibi offers multi-dimensional experiences above the bustle of the city including lunch, afternoon tea, drinks, dinner and after dinner drinks, with wine tastings, mixology art, creative shared plates and signature coffee artistry, influenced from Asia and Europe.

The Place

All day dining restaurant, The Place unveils a fresh new look after a stylish makeover. Styled by the award-winning team at Stickman Design of Dubai and Hong Kong, The Place features an interior design and décor in tones of light oak, herringbone patterns and pops of lime and white, conveying a bright and inviting atmosphere for diners.

The 8,600 square foot restaurant offers foodies a variety of popular buffets, its classic all-day à la carte menu, a wellness afternoon tea, plus grab and go choices.

Highlights include tempting, jet-fresh seafood from the three-metre Seafood Bar, Asian and Western favourites at the live stations, dim sum delights from Michelin-starred Ming Court, and South American and African chocolate-infused desserts.

The Backyard

Designed for grown-ups, the 6,000 square foot outdoor paradise, namely The Backyard features European lounge furniture, sweet scented mango trees, chill-out music and a waterfall and water feature that streams throughout the space.

Champagne flows freely, cocktails are available by the glass – or jug, and beer comes in more than 20 different varieties.

Chill out with great beats, homemade gourmet pizzas and organic, freshly-muddled cocktails using fresh herbs from the very own organic herb garden.

Chuan Spa, Hong Kong

Perched on the 41st and 42nd floors at the top of Cordis, Hong Kong, Chuan Spa is a haven of luxurious, oriental pampering and wellbeing.

Guided by the pillars of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Chuan Spa provides not only conventional treatments, but a holistic, regenerating journey that nurtures, heals and restores.

Keeping in line with tradition, Chuan Spa’s treatments are guided by the TCM pillars of Wu Xing (the Five Elements), Yin and Yang, and Jing Luo (the Meridian System)

. “At Chuan Spa, our guests experience not only a single treatment, but a sojourn that triggers the re-birth and re-balancing of the being. Assisting our guests in the journey to restore balance and harmony in life is an essential part of any Chuan Spa experience”, says Shane Pateman, managing director of Cordis, Hong Kong

The journey begins as guests step through the Moon Gate on the 41st floor sanctuary.

As a prelude, guests can enjoy the delights of a sauna, steam and oriental hot tub before descending along a candle lined staircase to the exquisite private treatment room.

A therapist will then take guests through a five elements questionnaire to determine which element is out of balance. Guests can select from over 60 treatments or have a treatment tailor-make to suit their individual requirements.

Chuan Spa, Hong Kong is also complemented by a rooftop swimming pool, Jacuzzi and the state-of-the-art fitness studio. Guests will be sure to attain balance and wellness in body, mind and soul.

The Location - Mong Kok

Mong Kok is Hong Kong’s most congested shopping and residential district, but don’t let that scare you away. The neon-bathed historic streets that wind through one of the densest parts of the world are worth visiting - just for the ‘peoplescapes’ alone. It just so happens that the shopping is excellent too.

The neighbourhood includes one of Hong Kong’s most popular markets, the Ladies' Market, and also has a ton of shopping streets, which are a common feature in southern China. Conveniently, these are where a cluster of merchants sell one type of product on a single street. Mong Kok has entire streets and street sections dedicated to the sale of goldfish, flowers, birds, sneakers, and kitchenware.

Just about everything from bargain household objects to luxury jewellery is bought, sold and haggled over in Mong Kok. Sai Yeung Choi Street sells electronics, cosmetics and clothes; Shantung Street and Dundas Street are where you can pick up the latest Japanese and Western fashion and accessories; while Langham Place is one of the many malls where you can do your Mong Kok shopping in air-conditioned comfort.