1. Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi, Maldives
This all-villa resort offers up a range of options, from Beach Villas ensconced in mangroves, to rustic-chic Sunrise and Sunset Beach Villas featuring day beds and private plunge pools. The hotel is also home to the first-in-the-world, semi-submerged art space called The Coralarium, which was designed to highlight climate change and the need to co-exist and protect nature.
Guests can also indulge in spa treatments at The Willow Stream Spa including massages, facials and Ayurvedic therapies, along with yoga and meditation; participate in coral restoration efforts with the on-site marine biologist or learn more about Maldivian cuisine in a cooking class with the resort’s chef.
Diving and snorkelling fans will not be disappointed by the unspoilt marine environment and 9km of reef around the resort which include several manta ray cleaning stations as well as plenty of sealife including blackback butterflyfish, blue triggerfish and several species of unicorn fish cavorting in the coral.
2. The Sebel Brisbane Margate Beach, Brisbane
The sweeping peninsula views from this hotel give guests the rare opportunity to spot breaching whales through winter and early spring. Each guestroom has a private balcony (from which to enjoy said views) and offer comforts such as plush Italian leather lounge seating as well as nostalgic, 1920s black-and-white images.
Be sure to explore the surrounding areas, from the full length of the peninsula or Woody Point to Scarborough, made easy with the hotel’s complimentary bicycle-lending programme. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, the on-site restaurant is ready to serve up some deliciously fresh Australian fare. Standout items include the pork belly sharing plate, wagyu burger and salt and pepper calamari.
3. ME Sitges Terramar, Barcelona
Concepted by Barcelona-based studio Lagranja, the hotel’s contemporary aesthetic draws on Catalonia’s natural beauty and vibrant culture to capture Mediterranean living. It’s a habitable muse for lovers of the arts, design and fashion.
A prime beachfront location without the crowds, the hotel is situated on the secluded westerly tip of the palm-fringed Passeig Marítim, with its gardens overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, providing a tranquil setting. Spend some time at the Pool Bar, a glamorous space with laid-back daybeds and all-day DJs, where you can enjoy healthy bites, natural juices and sunset cocktails.
Treat yourself by booking the ME Suite or Personality Suite to enjoy panoramic sea views, 24-hour personalised service from a dedicated Aura Manager, special welcome gifts and a private terrace.
SEE ALSO: Review: Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi, Maldives
This article was originally published in the August 2018 issue of SilverKris magazine.
