Luxury Travel

There are some hotels that feel instantly recognisable, and The Find is one of them. Sitting at the far end of Kabalana Beach in Ahangama on Sri Lanka’s south coast, the boutique hotel has become known for its distinctive pink facade and interiors, something that now feels completely synonymous with the property itself. Yet after speaking to owner Myles, I discovered the hotel was never actually meant to turn out quite so pink. Inspired by the colour of traditional Sri Lankan pottery, the shade developed into something far bolder and more memorable than originally planned. The result is effortlessly iconic.

Set just moments from the Pantheon in the heart of Rome’s historic centre, Orient Express La Minerva marks the return of one of the city’s most storied hotels. Originally opened in the 17th century before becoming Hotel de La Minerva in the early 1800s, the property has welcomed writers, aristocrats and travellers for generations, occupying a privileged position overlooking Piazza della Minerva.

Located on a prime 700-metre stretch of private shoreline, the Mina Seyahi collection serves as a prestigious gateway between the Dubai Marina and the Arabian Gulf. This sprawling estate integrates three distinct Marriott properties—the neoclassical luxury of The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, the mid-century chic Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark, and the ultra-modern, adult-focused W Dubai - Mina Seyahi.

PALM Hotel opened in 2019 on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, by Londoners Miriam and Laurie. It sits on four acres of a former coconut plantation, surrounded by rice paddies and tropical greenery. The property is roughly ten minutes from Ahangama’s surf beaches and around two to two and a half hours from Colombo and Bandaranaike International Airport. The hotel’s layout spreads its accommodations across the site to give privacy while keeping a central hub for socialising, creating a modern take on coastal living in Sri Lanka.

Dubai's luxury scene just got a significant upgrade with the arrival of Iliana, the glamorous new Greek-Mediterranean destination nestled within the breathtaking Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Inspired by the simple elegance and vibrant flavours of the Cycladic islands, Iliana first opened its doors earlier this year, quickly establishing itself as a sophisticated, three-part venue. From its chic restaurant offering authentic coastal cuisine and its luxurious pool club perfect for day-long relaxation, Iliana is already a must-visit. Yet, the final, and perhaps most anticipated, element of this concept has just been unveiled: the stunning Iliana rooftop.

If you only have two days in Dubai, planning your time carefully is essential to make the most of your short stay. The city is packed with towering modern landmarks, historic neighbourhoods, traditional souks, world-class dining, and desert adventures, meaning it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by choice. This insider’s itinerary is designed to highlight the experiences and attractions that can realistically fit into 48 hours, combining the city’s most iconic sights with local favourites that give a true sense of Dubai’s character.

Perched 2,000 metres above sea level on Oman’s Green Mountain, Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa is the ultimate summer escape from the desert heat. Often called the Grand Canyon of the Middle East, this rugged plateau offers a completely different world just a few hours from Dubai. We left 42-degree heat behind and arrived to crisp 28-degree temperatures in August, with refreshing rain showers and cool breezes we hadn’t felt in months. Being able to sit outdoors comfortably, surrounded by dramatic canyons and terraced villages, felt incredible. The hotel sits right on the edge of the mountain, offering uninterrupted views across deep gorges and rocky peaks that stretch for miles.

The Ritz‑Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is a five‑star resort set in the North Malé Atoll, around 50 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport. Part of Marriott International and designed by Kerry Hill, it sits within the Fari Islands, a new luxury development that brings together three resorts — The Ritz‑Carlton, Patina Maldives and the upcoming Capella Maldives — as well as the Fari Marina Village. This village is home to the Fari Beach Club, boutiques and a collection of shared dining and cultural spaces. While guests are free to explore these wider facilities, The Ritz‑Carlton itself feels self‑contained, offering overwater and beachfront villas, a full‑service spa, multiple restaurants and bars, a dive centre and a wide range of recreational and wellness activities.

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is a five-star property located in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives. Part of Marriott International, the resort follows Westin’s global wellness philosophy built around six pillars: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. This ethos is reflected throughout the island — from the brand’s signature Heavenly Beds and daily yoga sessions to nourishing dining options and a focus on rest and renewal.

The resort features spacious overwater and beachfront villas, a dedicated spa, and a range of wellness and fitness programmes. Its location also offers seasonal access to Hanifaru Bay, one of the world’s top sites for snorkelling with manta rays. Designed with sustainability and comfort in mind, The Westin caters to travellers looking for a quieter, more balanced Maldives experience.

I’ve just returned from a week in the Maldives, spending three nights at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort and two at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Both resorts were incredible — everything you expect from the Maldives: crystal-clear waters, top-level service, delicious food, and excellent amenities. However, these resorts belong to different tiers. While nearly every resort in the Maldives is considered as luxury, a select few are truly ultra-luxury. In this post, I’ll explore the difference between the two. At first glance, there may be little to separate them, but it’s the small, thoughtful touches — and the noticeable jump in price — that elevate some properties to that next level of luxury.

AlUla is one of Saudi Arabia’s most remarkable destinations, located in the northwest of the country within the Medina region. Known for its dramatic desert landscapes and archaeological significance, it is home to Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as ancient rock tombs, historic dwellings, and striking sandstone formations. In recent years, AlUla has opened up to international tourism with new infrastructure, seasonal events, and luxury accommodations, making it an ideal destination for travellers interested in history, culture, and nature.

This isn't the result of a viral post making the rounds on social media - Marriott Mena House in Cairo has been captivating visitors for over a century. Nestled just down the road from the Great Pyramids of Giza, this iconic hotel is the pinnacle of ancient history and luxury, offering guests a front-row seat to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. If the Great Pyramids are on your bucket list - as they are for so many - then Mena House is the perfect place to stay, while you give this extraordinary wonder, one big tick.

Planning a trip to the Maldives? This Indian Ocean paradise is every bit as beautiful as the photos suggest — turquoise lagoons, powder-soft sand, and the kind of serenity you only find when you’re miles from anywhere. But behind the dreamy scenes are a few practical things worth knowing before you go. From how seaplane transfers really work to what to pack (and what not to), local customs, tipping etiquette, and choosing the right island — this guide covers everything you need to help you plan the trip properly and make the most of your time in the Maldives.

Dubai doesn’t slow down for summer — it simply moves indoors, underwater, and after dark. While the temperatures soar, so do the experiences, from world-class spas and immersive museums to rooftop pools and desert safaris designed with the heat in mind. Whether you're chasing thrills, culture, or just somewhere beautifully air-conditioned, here are 15 of the best things to do in Dubai this summer.

Set above the shoreline at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Ginger Moon offers something new to the city: a beach club experience without the beach. Overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Dubai Harbour, with the towers of Dubai Marina rising behind, it’s a relaxed space designed for long afternoons and evenings.

At its centre, a large olive tree grows up from the valet area two floors below and stretches through the heart of the restaurant, forming the bar canopy with seating all around. The kitchen is open, so you can see the chefs at work, and there’s a choice between indoor tables or breezy outdoor seating. We visited for dinner (kindly gifted) and stayed well into the night.

Seychelles is known for having some of the clearest water, finest beaches, and most striking granite boulders in the world—a true island paradise scattered across the Indian Ocean. Whether tucked behind a luxury resort or hidden at the end of a hiking trail, every beach in Seychelles is public, meaning you’re free to explore them all. From postcard-perfect coves to long, shallow bays ideal for swimming, snorkelling and diving, the islands offer something for every kind of beachgoer.

Tucked away on the northwest coast of Zanzibar, Riu Palace Zanzibar is a luxurious adults-only, all-inclusive resort that looks out over the island’s iconic turquoise waters. We visited last July for our mini-moon, and it was exactly the kind of place we’d hoped for—peaceful, romantic, and effortlessly beautiful. Zanzibar itself feels like a tropical dream, with white sand beaches, crystal-clear shallows, and sunsets that light up the sky in every shade of gold. For honeymooners looking for a mix of laid-back luxury and postcard-perfect surroundings, this is an easy one to recommend.

There’s something cinematic about arriving in AlUla for the first time. Set deep within the Ashar Valley, this design-led retreat brings a new kind of luxury to the desert: 45 gleaming Airstream caravans, each thoughtfully placed to blend into the Mars-like surroundings. The site itself is more than a place to sleep—it’s a communal experience. Food trucks serve up regional flavours, gathering spaces encourage connection, and activities draw on local Bedouin traditions. For those chasing something different, Caravan AlUla captures the wild beauty of the desert without compromising on comfort.

Set against the backdrop of one of London’s most iconic buildings, art'otel London Battersea Power Station brings a new kind of cool to the capital. Located within the vibrant Battersea Power Station development, the hotel is part of a bold transformation that’s turned this once industrial landmark into a buzzing cultural and lifestyle hub. With shops, restaurants, art spaces and riverside walks, Battersea is quickly becoming one of London’s most exciting areas—and art'otel fits right in. We stayed last September and loved everything about it. For anyone looking to experience a different side of London, this hotel delivers.

Perched above the turquoise curve of Petite Anse, nestled within Mahé’s lush jungle hills, Four Seasons Seychelles is one of the most exclusive resorts in the world. Known for its private hillside villas, impeccable service and £2,000+ per night price tag, this is the kind of place most only dream of staying. But what many don’t realise is that you don’t actually have to book a villa to enjoy it for the day.

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa sits in the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, about 45 minutes from Downtown Dubai. Originally opened in 2004, the resort underwent a full renovation and reopened in 2023 with a fresh new look and upgraded facilities. The redesign kept the resort’s desert‑fort aesthetic while adding new restaurants, updated rooms and villas, and refreshed facilities. There are 115 rooms and suites in total, three swimming pools, and seven dining and lounge venues. The resort is surrounded only by sand dunes and wildlife like oryx and gazelles, which makes it feel far removed from the city despite the short drive. After nearly seven years of living in the UAE, this is still, without a doubt, my favourite resort in the country.