resort spa in the world

 

Whatever And Whenever Service At The Luxurious W Retreat & Spa, Maldives

Located in the North Ari Atoll, the luxurious W Retreat & Spa Maldivesis just a 25 minute seaplane transfer from Male and is the original chill-out destination.  A sophisticated luxury playground, W Retreat & Spa Maldives offers exclusivity, escape, and indulgence in a pristine seaside sanctuary. Guests may choose from the overwater Ocean Oasis or Beach Oasis with upstairs lounge.  The villas are a perfect blend of W’s forward-thinking design and contemporary living esthetics combined with island life simplicity.
Credited with having the best home reef in the Maldives, each of the Ocean Oasis villas feature glass floors offering an insider’s view to a world of sea turtles, manta rays and colourful reef fish.  The DOWN UNDER dive centre has everything from PADIbeginner’s course to overnight trips to one of the Maldives’ most incredible dive sites, Hammerhead Heaven.  Furthermore guests can indulge their inner water-baby with kite surfing, water skiing, windsurfing, and wakeboarding.
ESCAPE, the W Retreat’s luxury two cabin yacht, is a traditional two masts Gullet which has been stylishly refurbished to reflect the laid-back vibe of W.  For private hire, ESCAPE is a chance a drift away in the turquoise world of coral reefs, deserted islands and pristine dive sites.  For those looking for the ultimate Robinson Crusoe experience, take the 10-minute boat trip to uninhabited Gaathafushi Island, W’s own secluded island available for private rental.   *Beach Oasis from £541 per room per night


Current Starwood Offer: W Retreat Maldives 20 per cent Savings off Standard Rates with Breakfast for 2 people: www.starwood-ap.com/resorts2011 This promotion can be booked from now until 14 December 2011 and is valid for stays till 31 March 2012.

 

The Luxurious W Retreat Koh Samui, Thailand

For people looking to enjoy a Thai beach experience at its best, Koh Samui is the go-to island.  Blessed with some of the world’s ultimate white sand beaches, balmy weather and happening nightlife Koh Samui  is the perfect destination for the luxury traveller and W’s coolest resort. 
Set on the remote north shore, W Retreat Koh Samui, with its luxury 75 private villas, offers forward-looking design and panoramic sunrise and sunset views of the Gulf of Thailand from its exceptional beachfront location, you wont be disappointed.
The luxury Thai retreat has been designed as a modern paradise where the day is dedicated to individual moments in which guests can slip away from themselves and each other to refuel for what comes next.  When night falls, the people and the Retreat come to life – nocturnal in nature like the W brand, full of energy and ready to mingle.
W Koh Samui’s signature services and amenities bring a new level of indulgence to a renowned Thai island.  Exclusive experiences can be arranged from a Champagne brunch on a deserted beach to an intimate sunset wedding on a stretch of Koh Samui’s glistening sand or an impromptu island-hopping excursion. A masterpiece of modern design, W Koh Samui’s Away® Spa comprises 576 sqm indoor and outdoor spa treatment areas that allow for total privacy, as well as TONIC juice bar and the first “Thaimazcal” treatment facility.  The first of its kind in Asia, the Thaimazcal treatment is based on a Mexican tribal ritual of rebirth, using local Thai ingredients. *Jungle Oasis from £425 per room per night.
For other luxury Starwood Hotels click here.

Bailey Robinson (01488 689700; baileyrobinson.com ) has 7 nights at W Retreat Koh Samui from £2850 (low season) and £3350 (high season) per person on a b&b basis including flights and transfers.

 

Luxury ITC Mughal’s Kaya Kalp – The Royal Spa, India

It may be said that every living soul hankers for a glimpse of paradise. The Mughals in particular sought ‘Jannat’ or Paradise by ensuring perfection and balance in all facets of their lifestyle.  ITC Mughal’s Kaya Kalp – The Royal Spa, is where rejuvenation comes through an experience of unmatched luxury and total well-being.

ITC Mughal now has a whole new wing full of 42 opulent suites and rooms where the ultimate endeavor has been to recreate a Mughal Paradise for today’s luxury traveller. The Khwab Mahal- Palace of Dreams, as the name suggests, is the most luxurious room of the royal complex.
Emperor Shah Jahan wanted to build a Khwab Mahal for his beloved begum Mumtaz, and what was created was the much admired Taj Mahal.
The “Palace of Dreams” is another dream realized; A befitting tribute to the bygone royal era.
The largest and most opulent are the two Royal Presidential Suites. These are grand residences, named after Mughal Queens – Nur Jehan and  Mumtaj Mahal. The Spa Presidential Suite comprises of living room, bedroom, private couple massage room with steam room, vichy shower for bespoke Spa Sojourns and an outdoor  temperature controlled personal plunge pool.  These are grand residences, spacious and luxurious with a personal plunge pool, decorated in shades of grey, off-white and gold. In these luxury abodes, the award-winning Kaya Kalp therapies can be experienced in complete privacy, within one’s own spa room. Here a ‘Khidmadgar’, ensures that every whim is a command, while expert spa masseurs create the ultimate luxury of changing fatigue into total rejuvenation.
Amongst the first great hotel resorts in India, and still highly rated amongst the best, the fountains, landscaped gardens, exceptional cuisine at ITC Mughal recreates the luxurious lifestyle of the great Mughals – a memorable experience and an inspired tribute to the grandeur of the Mughal Dynasty. Images courtesy of ITC Mughal.

 

The Luxury Cap Cana Estate, Dominican Republic

Located in the eastern region of the Dominican Republic, only 10 minutes away from Punta Cana International Airport, Cap Canais the ideal destination for those who wish to enjoy a peaceful and safe lifestyle. For its impeccable array of services and amenities, this community has all you need to live with your family and explore the business options that are available. In Cap Cana, you may find the best alternatives for the acquisition of real estate: luxury villas, golf view lots, ocean front apartments, and opportunities for promoters and developers as well.
This exclusive gated community is developed in an area of 30,000 acres, which includes 3.4 miles of beautiful white sand beaches. Within its premises, it has residential projects, a school district with the Cap Cana Heritage School, from Pre-school through 12^th grade, the Cap Cana UNIBE University campus and a business community center.
Buildings and roads infrastructure investment, with more than 33 miles of paved roads, modern telecommunications services, drinking water supply and self generation capacity and distribution of electricity already installed of 34MW, makes this destination the perfect family home. The luxury resort offers a unique experience by providing the best services both to residents and guests.
Cap Cana has entertainment and recreational facilities for the whole family. It has incredible options for adults such as: The Punta Espada golf course designed by Jack Nicklausand the Cap Cana Marina. This luxury destination also has first class spas, 5-star hotels, elegant boutiques, gourmet restaurants and Scape2CapCana, offering adventure and entertainment for the youngest ones of the family. Images courtesy of Cap Cana.

 

The Luxury Conrad, Bali

Conrad Baliis situated on 350 metres of pristine beach front and encircled by 6.8 acres of tropical gardens and lagoons with cascading waterfalls. Opened in 2004 on Bali’s Nusa Dua coast, the resort is a contemporary Balinese design incorporating local timbers and materials. The guest rooms and suites feature tribal Indonesian art together with modern facilities.
Each of the 360 guest rooms and suites reflect the resort’s sense of space and luxury with a private patio or balcony offering panoramic views over the ocean, lagoons or gardens. Exclusively for Club guests, the Club Lounge offers extra privacy and personal attention, providing breakfast, evening cocktails and other enhanced services.
The breathtaking Conrad Bali Suites offer seclusion and sophistication. Set in a private haven, they are surrounded by tropical gardens, reflective pools and ponds. Each suite is exquisitely designed to create a space and atmosphere where you can truly be yourself. As a Conrad Suite guest you enjoy access to a private 25-metre swimming pool, Beach Club and an exclusive Conrad Suite lounge.
Facilities include an award-winning wedding venue, Infinity, restaurants and bars – including the signature beachfront restaurant Eight Degrees South serving Mediterranean cuisine, RIN the resort’s specialty restaurant offering traditional Japanese cuisine with a modern twist, SUKU which serves Balinese and Asian cuisine, the poolside bar AZURE, and the Lobby Lounge EAST – offer a variety of exquisite local and western cuisines.
Conrad Bali is part of Conrad Hotels & Resorts and Hilton Hotels.

 

The Luxury Racha Hotel and Resort, Thailand

The Racha is Thailand’s premier deluxe island hideaway where people can balance body, mind and spirit in an environmentally friendly space. The luxury hotel is on a magnificent white sand beach on Racha Island, only 12 miles south of Phuket. The resort feature 70 luxurious villas and aims to be a leader in responsible and environmentally sustainable tourism.
All villas are designed in a minimalistic contemporary style and feature luxurious bathrooms and indoor showers, as well as outdoor rain showers. Guests can relax on comfortable day beds both inside or outside on their private terrace. All villas enjoy thoroughly modern conveniences, including LCD/plasma TV, DVD player, Apple iPod with Bose Sound dock, complimentary broadband internet, minibar with coffee & tea making facilities.
The lighthouse is the ultimate luxury accommodation at The Racha. This superb five-storey villa has an observation lounge with majestic 360◦ views of the island and surrounding area. It features two bedrooms, both with private Jacuzzi in the bathroom, and two single rooms ideal for children. The swimming pool and open-air relaxation pavilion are located privately and offer guests an ideal place to relax in a tranquil setting.
Guests can either enjoy alfresco dining in sumptuous surroundings or international cuisine in relaxed and friendly settings in one of six different café bars and restaurants at the luxury hotel.

 

 

The Luxury Leaf House in Rio de Janeiro by Mareines and Patalano

The Luxury Leaf House in Rio de Janeiro by Mareines and Patalano is truly breathtaking. Based on the natural shape of a leaf the six sectioned house creates an abundance of light throughout, the entire roof structure was made ​​of laminated wood of eucalyptus, which due to its manufacturing process can wing large spans (20 feet is the largest in the house) with ease and aesthetic refinement. Photography by Leonardo Finotti & Peter Wolf

Via The Coolist

 

 

The Luxury Laranjeiras Residence, Brazil

Built in a gated community on the southern coast of the state of Rio de Janeiro, this luxury summer property has been designed by design studio Fernanda Marques. The natural beauty of its surroundings has defined its architectural approach – Brazil’s most stunning landscapes.
Steel was used for the structure of the luxury house, its technical features and design provide excellent freedom. The outer shell however, is covered in wood, a device used to protect it from the sea air and make it more familiar looking amid the green Mata Atlântica.
In order to provide maximum integration between the internal and external areas, large glazed windows were used, allowing virtually every room in the house ample interaction with the landscape. To counterbalance the use of timber, the essential element in the project’s aesthetic arrangement, interior areas were conceived with strong emphasis on the dialogue among materials, either finished or unfinished – oscillating between rustic and high-tech.
To that end, one of the main challenges faced by the architect was selecting furnitureand decorative pieces that were contemporary in their look yet were in keeping with the beachfront style. Also, small items were picked so that nothing would obstruct the heavenly sea view.
Fernanda Marques, architect, said: “We mixed sophisticated and contemporary finishes (such as lacquer, mirrors and stainless steel) and more rustic ones (sea-grass, reclaimed wood). The materials had to be suitable for use on the coast.”

 

 

Luxury Resort Ayada, Maldives

Ayada Maldivesis a brand new awe-inspiring destination comprising an opulent 112 villa resort located on the 150,000 square meter paradise island of Maguhdhuvaa in the stunning Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll due to open in November 2011.
From the moment you arrive on the luxury resort’s delicate, powder white sands you will be immersed in a fantasy of luxury, quality and style unique only to Ayada Maldives. Delight in the impeccable service and superb amenities of the seven indulgent restaurants, bars and cafes offering world-class cuisine to tantalise taste buds, the extensive 3,500 square meter AySpa Spa & Health Club by ESPAwill take you to a blissful level of relaxation. Ayada further includes a kids’ club, scuba diving centre and an array of water sports.
The luxury Maldives resort with natural beauty at its heart where you can truly discover the exceptional. From unique experiences of snorkeling and diving in one of the most unspoiled locations in the world to simply relaxing and relishing the views of the azure Indian Ocean from your private pool and terrace.
Be prepared to forget all your cares and pamper yourself with all that Ayada Maldives has to offer, since Ayada Maldives is here to turn your vacation into an unforgettable experience by attending to your personal wishes and needs. Indulge on a journey that will show you a truly inspiring world that you will not so easily forget.
Ayada Maldives is being developed by Aydeniz Group, which was recognised by the World Travel Awards as Europe’s Leading Tourism Development Company and Asia’s Leading Inward Tourism Development Company.

 

 

The Luxury Naladhu, Maldives

Waking up to the soothing roll of waves breaking just feet away. Walking barefoot across power-soft sands to touch the cool of the azure ocean. Breathtaking stillness framed by dramatic sunrises and sunsets. Naladhu– Maldivian for “beautiful island” – offers exclusivity and privacy in an untouched paradise, dotted with only 19 beach and ocean houses, exquisite dining, recreational pleasures and hidden moments of wonder.
Enjoy a warm welcome at Male International Airport by one of their airport representatives who will accompany you to the Naladhu launch.
Your first glimpse of Maldivian beauty on the luxury speedboat, a 35-minute ride through crystal-clear sea, emerald lagoons and untouched islands in your wake. Approaching the pristine wonder that is Naladhu, and the beginning of your story in paradise.
Take residence in one of 19 classic “houses” inspired by colonial elegance.
Step into another time, exotic curios lining the shelves, 300sqm of flowing space an invitation to drift, to explore.
Choose from six beach houses with a back garden and palm-fringed path leading onto the beach on the lagoon side, or 13 ocean houses with a private sundeck extending directly over the rolling ocean. From the king-sized bedroom to the classic comfort of the dressing room, steam room and garden rain shower, the open-air bath adjoining the private swimming pool, gardens, hardwood deck and dining sala, either abode promises unsurpassed luxury and spirited freedom.
You’d be surprised at how much action you can pack into a single day at Naladhu without ever leaving the shore. Sunrise yoga on the beach. Culinary journeys to hone your cooking and tasting prowess. Breathing in the culture and spirit of the Maldives with the enchanting folklores of Ahmed Didi, the island’s storyteller – inspiring tales of generations past in the magical setting of a coconut grove.
Naladhu’s sister resort Kihavah also offers the perfect luxury getaway. Images courtesy of Anantara Resorts.

 

 

The Luxury Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Maldives

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu can be found on the private island of Dhuni Kolhu, in the Baa Atoll, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is the ultimate hideaway in the Maldives.
Set on a beautiful island, the resort is fringed by white sandy beaches, dressed with luxurious tropical vegetation, and hosts a blue crystal clear lagoon for the enjoyment of a vast range of water sports. Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu features delightful thatched villas, either dotted among palm trees in carefully planned tranquility or on stilts over the lagoon, with spectacular views of the sea and nearby desert islands.
Beach villas and deluxe villas have open air garden bathrooms, for showers at sunrise or at night under the stars.
Deluxe villas are complemented with a sunken bath in the open-air bathroom, and a plunge pool on the outdoor terrace. A four-poster bed with mosquito net enhances the romantic mood of the villas.
The  all wood water villas offer extreme indulgence for those who are looking for exclusivity and seclusion. All water villas are fitted with Jacuzzi bathroom overlooking the turquoise waters of the lagoon, plunge pools on the large sundeck, four poster beds and luxurious furniture, fittings and amenities.
If you fancy a real treat, why not for one evening let Coco Palm organise the 154 square meters of one of the most exclusive suites of the Maldives, with a superb plunge pool, Jacuzzi and direct access to the lagoon. With unobstructed ocean views, you could have a truly romantic setting from which to admire the sunset. Awake to the pleasure of enjoying a champagne breakfast served in the privacy of your Suite. (Please note that this experience is subject to room availability). Images courtesy of Coco Palm Resorts.

 

 

Luxury Anantara Kihavah Villas, Maldives

Luxury Anantara Resorts opened Anantara Kihavah Villas earlier this year in the beautiful Maldives. Located on the Baa Atoll, only 35 minutes by seaplane from Male International Airport.
You can expect the morning sun dappling the crystal-clear waters of a secluded lagoon. And your afternoons spent sunbathing by your private infinity pool, just steps from the Indian Ocean. An evening stroll across soft white beaches, the moonlight casting shadows on the sand. Nights spent dreaming to the sound of the waves in an overwater villa. Imagine life on a luxurious deserted island – an island of swaying palm trees and unending horizons of blue.
A haven of pool villas, Anantara Kihavah Villas Maldives offers the ultimate in privacy and luxury, your own sanctuary within a sanctuary. Expansive space that opens on to brilliant tropical nature, with private pools, high ceilings, timber interiors and marble floors. Flavours of culinary art and wine served amidst a panorama of aquatic life in the world’s only underwater restaurant and wine cellar. The luxury resort features 74 one-bedroom villas and four two-bedroom suites.
Enjoy idyllic sunsets from your hammock or dining pavilion by the pool. Snorkel through crystal-clear waters or float above the surface aboard a private sailboat. Spend the day rejuvenating at the Anantara Spa. Discover new meanings of paradise and luxurious seclusion at this unforgettable Maldives resort.

 

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama by BFLS

BFLS have designed the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff, Wales. The building is spacious, comfortable and lavish, yet still effective and efficient.
The winning design of an international design competition, the project includes three performance and rehearsal spaces, teaching rooms, studios and library facilities and is set in a Grade I listed Royal Park, adding a touch of class and luxury to the architecture. This background of beautiful wildlife emits a calm, relaxing feel, which is encapsulated within the building as well. The unusual shape of the predominant exterior building immediately grabs the attention, as does the excellent use of colour and shade here. A heavy saturation of windows also cancels out the need for artificial light.
The interior of the building continues the comfortable, efficient and lavish theme. A huge-reaching ceiling brings an overwhelming feeling of spaciousness, and the beautiful, sleek furnishings are comfortable and luxurious. The performance and rehearsal spaces offer vast areas within which to use, as well as a large amount of seating spaces, perfect for its purpose.
The building will achieve BREEAM ‘Excellent’ by incorporating sustainable solutions; a green roof, natural ventilation and ground source heating and cooling, further consolidating the point of efficient yet lavish architecture.

 

The Luxury Anantara Veli Resort & Spa, Maldives

Anantara Veli Resort & Spa, Maldives, is a sensual island living over a turquoise lagoon that will put you in a natural mood for romance in one of 50 over water bunglows. This stunning resort is only a 35-minute speedboat ride from Male International Airport, yet the white sands, endless blue sky and lush foliage seem a world apart.
Walk hand in hand on idyllic sands. Cool down in the crystal clear waters that lie just beneath your luxury private bungalow. Contemplate the oceanic light as it evolves from morning glow to dusk, savouring time that is luxuriously well spent in between.
For that extra treat pamper yourself at the Veli Garden spa retreat, lounging at the ocean side infinity pool, or cruising on a dhoni at sunset alongside dolphins. Then freshen up for an evening of fine dining where international cuisine is served at your table – a highlight being the best Thai cuisine, set out over the water where ocean and lagoon converge.
36 over water bungalows luxuriate in the contemporary decor of your spacious 63-square metre bungalow on a pristine stretch of tropical paradise with hardwood floor and a coconut thatch roof and king-sized beds fitted with Egyptian cotton linen.
Another 14 deluxe over water bungalows 92 square metres of relaxation under the charming coconut thatch roof, your deluxe accommodation is a sanctuary overlooking the vast seascapes, with a spacious open-air bathroom and a tub along the tiered sundeck. Unwind on a daybed or lounger on the sundeck. There is no more place idyllic than this spot of paradise to enjoy leisurely quality time with your loved one, including all the luxurious amenities of your luxury over water bungalows.
Between the temptations on offer at Anantara Veli and those of Anantara Dhigu, an array of casual and fine dining destinations is yours to savour. 73 Degrees, Dhoni, Baan Huraa or the Geckos are some of the eateries on offer to tickle your taste buds. Images courtesy of Anantara.

 

The Luxury Dhigu Resort, Maldives

 

Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spais nestled on Dhigu island in the South Malé Atoll, surrounded by tranquil turquoise waters, this is a resort where relaxation is guaranteed. Each private villa, furnished with luxury furniture,  has it`s own stretch of pristine beach, providing a fantasy private sanctuary in the tropics. The 9 luxury restaurants on the resort offer a range of gastronomic food created by high-grade chefs and the kitchen staff.