From new openings to transformative redesigns, milestones are being celebrated the world over...
When you’ve ventured on a savannah safari to see springbok leaping from the grass and lion cubs playing in the dirt, you’ll need time to take it all in. For the most enviable end-note to your trip, there’s a private island, unexplored and in one of the most unique locations in Mozambique. The new Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira (pictured above) opens late 2022 and brings you close to the wild outback but in complete tranquillity on its own private island. At the 100% solar-powered resort, the names of the 40 new pool villas set the tone: Bliss, Serenity, Harmony – thoughtfully designed and culturally inspired these are private spaces with the ocean right on your doorstep. While you’re here you can go whale watching, swim through shipwrecks or indulge in holistic therapies for a little me-time.
Domes Resorts have been the talk of Crete and Corfu for some time, with each property enticing people with their chic beach-front locations, photoworthy architecture, Michelin-starred menus and authentic experiences. The brand’s ever-growing cast list now includes Domes Lake Algarve, a €7 million refurbishment of the previously named The Lake Spa Resort. From head to toe, every single room, restaurant and relaxation area has been reinvented, reflecting the soul of the legendary Domes Resorts. For those in a relentless pursuit of their passions, opportunity beckons with immersive experiences that allow you to remain in sync with the landscape and food that will leave you endlessly inspired and surprised. This is where the sophisticated go for a relaxed lifestyle in world-class accommodation.
Dubai is a place that doesn’t hold back, especially when it comes to architecture and design – which makes it one of the most indulgent places to escape to. Even more so now, with the new opening in 2022 of Atlantis The Royal in Dubai. Resembling a giant game of Jenga, the building’s 43 storeys will never fail to impress. Cascading water features that erupt with both fountains and fire, and 24-carat gold gilded floors certainly give the wow factor. With the largest private beachfront in Dubai, the world’s best chefs across 17 restaurants, including Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, garden suites and a Sky Pool that floats in the air – you’ll be living your best life at The Palm’s most exclusive address.
Later this year, designer and architect extraordinaire Bill Bensley will open a new five-star resort inspired by the humble railway. Harking back to the locomotive revolution during King Rama V’s reign, Bensley is upcycling abandoned train carriages to form the unique structure of the Intercontinental Khao Yai National Park in Thailand. The Art Deco interiors will bring the glamour of old-school travel to your bedside with inflections of the green mountainous national park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) outside. Sat amongst 100 acres of lush foliage, bountiful trees and seven lakes, it’s like a dream brought to life.
Opening to grand acclaim on the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula at the end of 2021, Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection, Riviera Maya heartily embraces the rich surrounding nature. Etéreo means ethereal in Spanish and is the founding core of a resort that encourages you to connect with the landscape and culture through visceral senses and new rhythms. Away from the distractions of modern life, discover wellness rituals to calm the mind and reduce stress. Nurture a deep connection with Mayan culture through art and culinary experiences, while stories with the inhouse Shaman and expeditions with the in-house archaeologist bring Mayan wisdom and findings to life. The best bit? Design your dream bath and it will be ready for you to sink into in the evening.