We travel extensively to gather insider knowledge and first-hand experience of some of the worlds most luxurious destinations. Here are just a few of our latest travel highlights...
Island hopping in the Caribbean: Lisa Fitzell, Managing Director
"Our first stop was Grenada - an island with a laid-back and authentically Caribbean vibe. It was amazing to see how little had changed since my last visit 15 years ago! Our first hotel was the contemporary Silversands on Grand Anse Beach, where every detail has been considered. There's a state-of-the-art spa, dreamy dining options and one of the most 'Instagrammable' pools I've seen. We then moved to the fabulous, family-run Spice Island Resort, where the service is unmatched. By the time we left, the staff felt like old friends! While in Grenada, we also hired a car to explore the island - from hiking to the Seven Sisters Waterfall to chocolate tasting at the Belmond Estate."
Grand Anse Beach, Grenada
Poolside with ocean views
"After a night at Young Island in St Vincent and the Grenadines, we took the ferry to the tiny island of Canouan. On our short journey from the bustling harbour to the Mandarin Oriental Canouan, we were treated to stunning sunset views and glimpses of the land turtles that come out at dusk - an amazing first impression! The hotel was everything I had hoped for and more. There was amazing service, to-die-for food and huge rooms with great views. Guests can also access the selection of restaurants and facilities across the wider Canouan Estate, our favourites of which were the chic Sandy Lane Yacht Club and new Soho House."
"Our final island was beautiful Bequia, which we fell totally in love with. A hotspot for luxury yachts, Port Elizabeth had such a bustling vibe (particularly on a Friday night!) and the locals made us feel so welcome. We stayed at The Liming - a really special spot that's made up of luxury bungalows with private swimming pools. The owner also has a lovely property in St Vincent and can whisk you between the two in just 30 minutes on his speed boat. Some of our island highlights included sipping sunset cocktails on the unique floating bar and dining at Fernandos - a local who opens his home to share his delicious cooking and incredible stories. "
Beach at The Liming, Bequia
The best of Marbella: Katia Tartaglia, Product Executive
Girl on path surrounded by plants
"My Marbella adventure began at the stunning Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa ,which is surrounded by tranquil gardens filled with water features, meditation spaces and chirping birds. While every aspect was amazing, the kids' club is here is well worth a mention, offering a range of enriching activities that celebrate the local area. Next, I spent two nights at Puente Romano Beach Resort Marbella and Nobu Hotel Marbella. Designed to resemble a bustling Andalusian village, it's home to 15 restaurants and bars, my favourite of which was Nobu! There are also 100 unique experiences on offer here - from sangria making to flamenco lessons. I tried out tennis at the truly world-class tennis club, as well as a luxury sailing excursion from Puerto Banus harbour."
A Cretan cultural discovery: Lucy Evans, Marketing Communication Manager
"On my first visit to Crete, I was lucky enough to stay at the oh so 'Instagrammable' Nana Princess Suites, Villas & Spa in Hersonissos - where luxury pool suites slope down towards the beautiful beach. The food here was incredible, as were the extensive spa facilities and sunset views (best enjoyed with a cocktail!). A selection of excursions invited me to discover the rich culture and history of Crete. The first was a boat trip to the UNESCO recognised island of Spinalonga - a former leper colony with a truly fascinating history. I also got the chance to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Minoan Palace of Knossos - Greece's second-most visited archaeological site after the Parthenon in Athens! I would highly recommend booking a private tour guide for a personalised experience."
Outside Seating Area at Nana Princess Suites, Villas & Spa
Montenegro in style: Vicky Arrowsmith, Luxury Travel Specialist
Indoor Pool at Chenot Espace Spa
"Set on a beachfront beside the entrance to Boka Bay, One&Only Portonovi is the brand's first resort in Europe, and it was even more amazing than I anticipated. I took a guided boat tour across the bay, admiring the dramatic scenery, cute villages and impressive hilltop monastery nearby. Back at the hotel, I made the most of the vibrant beach club, beautiful pools and exceptional Chenot Espace Spa, where I was treated to a unique detox massage using glass cups. The dining options are fabulous too, with an impressive amount of local seafood on the menu. I even took part in a cookery class in the Japanese restaurant, learning how to make the ultra-fresh sushi I'd eaten the night before."
Luxury yachting in Mallorca: Marie Williams-Cooke, Head of Marketing
"Back in June, I was kindly invited by Marriott Hotels & Resorts to spend two nights at the stunning St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort - backed by the Tramuntana Mountains and overlooking the Bay of Palma. During my stay, I experienced the ultra-exclusive Super Yacht Cup 2022, watching the races in style from the deck of a luxury Sunseeker Yacht! I also enjoyed a fascinating guided tour of the Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca in Palma, which took an incredible 500 years to build, as well as embracing the fabulous facilities at the hotel - including the Michelin-starred restaurant, Es Fum, and an absolutely amazing spa."
Terrace at Restaurant Es Fum, St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort
Dubai family fun: Rebecca Turner, Head of Product and Communications
Aquaventure Waterpark, Atlantis, The Palm
"During May half term, I spent four nights at Dubai's legendary Atlantis, The Palm with my husband and two daughters - aged 10 and 13 years old. To say it was unforgettable would be an understatement. After a seamless check-in at the Imperial Club Lounge, where we enjoyed food and drinks throughout the day, it was time to embrace the incredible facilities. All guests get unlimited complimentary access to the seriously amazing Aquaventure Waterpark (the largest in the world!), as well as the Lost Chambers Aquarium, where we watched the crazy evening feed. Our own dining highlight had to be Hakkasan - I promise you won't be disappointed by the dim sum!"