We understand that travel is as individual as you are, and that everyone has a slightly different definition of the perfect luxury holiday. Whether you're seeking pure relaxation, eye-opening cultural encounters or mind-blowing gourmet delights, our experts are committed to crafting your escape, your way...
For Luxury-Loving History Buffs
Set upon a hillside in the upscale area of Elounda, Blue Palace Resort & Spa, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Crete looks across the blue hues of the Cretan Sea towards the UNESCO World Heritage Spinalonga Island. This tiny isle has a rich and fascinating history, once a leper colony and now housing an intriguing blend of medieval, Venetian, Turkish and Greek architecture. The hotel's private boat will whisk you across the gulf to the island, while engaging guides are always on hand to show you around. Before you visit (or even while you're soaking up the sun beside Blue Palace's swimming pool), read The Island by Victoria Hislop, an award-winning novel that highlights the history of Spinalonga. We also recommend visiting at sunset for seriously special views and a different side to the inspiring island.
![Spinalonga Island from Blue Palace]()
Spinalonga Island from Blue Palace
For Wine Connoisseurs and Foodies
Just a short drive from Cape Town, yet a world away from the buzz of the city, Franschhoek - which translates to 'French Corner' - is a must-stop destination for wine lovers that want to sip their way around the region's wineries. Here, Mont Rochelle is a boutique, Richard Branson-owned property that has been lovingly restored into a stylish retreat. There are two restaurants to please every palate, both of which embrace the area's wonderful produce. The Country Kitchen is ideally located next to the award-winning wine cellar and is the perfect place to head for hearty locally sourced dishes, guided wine tasting and gourmet picnics for two. For superb, seasonal cuisine that celebrates the flavours of South Africa, as well as 180-degree views over the Franschhoek valley and vineyards, discover the flagship restaurant MIKO.
![Country Kitchen at Mont Rochelle]()
Country Kitchen at Mont Rochelle
For All-Inclusive Enthusiasts
For laid-back yet luxurious living, tranquil tropical surroundings and fabulous facilities, look no further than OZEN LIFE MAADHOO. Changing the game for all-inclusive holidays, The Atmosphere INDULGENCE plan invites you to enjoy all meals in a choice of amazing eateries. Start the day with a brilliant breakfast spread at The Palms, feast on sushi for lunch at RAW, grab an afternoon snack at super-chic poolside Joie De Vivre, and opt for flavoursome South Asian dishes for dinner at IndoCeyclon or Far-Eastern flair at Peking. The INDULGENCE offering also includes one dinner per stay at the speciality underwater restaurant, M6M. Located six-metres below sea level, look forward to views of thousands of fish (and maybe an eel or baby shark) behind the windows. As well as fabulous food, the rate includes premium wines and spirits, a twice-daily replenished mini-bar, non-motorised watersports, children's activities, a couple of excursions, and selected spa or dive services... meaning you can forget the credit card and simply relax.
![M6M at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO]()
M6M at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO
For Fun-Seeking Families
Part of the magnificent Madinat Jumeirah resort in dreamy Dubai, Jumeirah Al Naseem artfully balances contemporary luxury with Arabian flair. While the adults-only guest rooms and pool make it a top spot for a romantic trip, families are also kept more than happy here. The exclusive KiDS at Jumeirah Al Naseem programme encourages little ones to make the most of their holiday alongside new friends, providing planned games, innovative activities and locally inspired crafts. Meanwhile, hours of fun await youngsters in the spacious outdoor area, complete with thrilling splash pads, swing sets and a unique jungle gym. Kids can also enjoy complimentary access to the outstanding Sinbad's Kids' Club - a true dream world for children, with over 1,000 square metres of play areas and pools. Of course, the whole family can expect adrenaline-pumping adventures at the world-class Wild Wadi waterpark, to which Al Naseem guests enjoy complimentary access.
![Children's Activities at Jumeirah Al Naseem]()
Children's Activities at Jumeirah Al Naseem
For Beach Lovers and Romancers
Blending colonial-style architecture with contemporary design, Fairmont Royal Pavilion is a stylish beachfront bolthole that's (understandably) a longstanding Barbadian favourite. The collection of buildings nestles right on one the very best beaches on the island, inviting you to embrace half a mile of perfect white sand and tranquil turquoise waters that are ideal for swimming. With the precious natural environment in mind, a range of complimentary non-motorised water sports is yours to enjoy. You may choose to explore the coast by kayak, test your balance on a stand-up paddle board, or head beneath the waves with the top of the range snorkelling gear. This dreamy location also lends the resort perfectly to romance. Lovers can toast to each other with cocktails as they admire the spellbinding sunset, before a tikki torch-lit private dinner on the beach.
![Aerial of Fairmont Royal Pavilion's Beach]()
Aerial of Fairmont Royal Pavilion's Beach
For Seekers of Sheer Seclusion
If it's short-haul seclusion you're searching for, the mesmerising island of Mallorca may be more your style. On Sir Richard Branson's sun-drenched Son Bunyola estate, privacy is plentiful, and the villas are nothing short of sublime. The four-bedroom Son Balagueret's interior incorporates colourful local paintings, charming 13th-century turrets and rustic wooden beams, laid around a private courtyard with a heated pool, dining pavilion and views to the Mediterranean. It's also serviced by housekeeping, a garden attendant and private chef, ensuring worry-free, all-inclusive relaxation for everyone. While seriously relaxing, the estate's location amid the Tramuntana Mountains also provides plenty of super-scenic hiking, while adventures from the nearby coast include sailing and deep-sea fishing.
![Son Balagueret Exterior]()
Son Balagueret Exterior
For Devotees to Decadence
A symbol of Arabian indulgence, you can reach the iconic sail shaped Burj Al Arab Jumeirah in serious style... by its fleet of phantoms or private helicopter. Expect plush fabrics, elaborate waterfalls and more gold than you could dream of, along with the hotel's famed duplex suites, top-class spa and infinity pool. Exceptional eateries include the underwater Al Mahara by three Michelin-starred Chef Kim Joinié-Maurin, and Sal, a chic new beach dining experience. For utter decadence (even for Dubai!), indulge in the royal tradition of Afternoon Tea on the 27th floor, enjoying delicious delights and panoramic views, or spend an evening at exclusive nightclub Gold on 27, where both the walls and cocktails are bedecked in gold leaf - what more would you expect from one of the world's most luxurious hotels?
![Gold on 27 at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah]()
Gold on 27 at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah