Black Tomato

Cocoa Island

Alice — Tue, 22 May 2012 15:45:10 +0000

Get rid of your shoes and step out onto the soft, white sand of Cocoa Island, a private island resort in the Maldives, or little piece of heaven as we like to say. Continue this ‘foot in the sand’ attitude as you have dinner with the lagoon water lapping at your feet, take a dip in the hydrotherapy pool or find yourself swimming amongst a tropical world surrounding this idyllic island.

Location

Known locally as Mukunufushi, Cocoa Island is located amongst South Malé’s coral atolls in the Maldives. Land at Malé, jump on a speed boat and let yourself be whisked off to an island of paradise….very James Bond.

Your room

Inspired by the traditional dhoni boats, the rooms at Cocoa Island are completely unique and luxurious. In a contemporary style, the boat shaped rooms still have a local rustic feel to them as they sit on the peaceful lagoon. Lie in bed and look out over the Indian Ocean and if you can’t resist the temptation, take a step outside onto your private deck and dive into the irresistible azure water.

Why we like it

We love the infinity pool at Cocoa Island. Although deceiving, the feeling as though you are swimming off into the far far distance is exhilarating and liberating.

Soneva Fushi

Alice — Tue, 22 May 2012 11:16:42 +0000

Step foot onto your very own Robinson Crusoe idyll and gaze into a clear azure ocean that is fringed by white sand beaches. Although a desert island feel is very much apparent, Soneva Fushi also includes the finest comforts and luxuries. Remote and charming, this chic sandy hideaway offers barefoot sophistication in a way that makes you feel utterly relaxed and pampered at the same time. Welcome to a luxurious experience in which the natural authenticity of the island bonds modest yet refined style.

Location

Just 1,400 meters long and 400 meters wide, this island of utopia is intimate luxury at its best. Soneva Fushi is based on the tropical island of Kunfunadhoo in the North of the idyllic Maldives. Jump aboard your private sea plane and within half an hour you will land on the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean and at your island paradise.

Your room

Choose from a wide range of rooms at Soneva Fushi, but each guaranteed to be as luxurious and heavenly as the next. Blending in with the natural surroundings, unwind on your private balcony whilst looking out over the Indian Ocean as it shimmers in the sun, not to mention relaxing on your very own stretch of pristine white sand just steps away from your tranquil haven.

Why we like it

Dining at Soneva Fushi is something pretty spectacular we must admit. With a range of restaurants on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice and we’re afraid we’ll have to leave you to pick your favourite; the decision is too much for us. Whether it be enjoying a refreshing, freshly-churned ice cream, tailored wine tastings including cold cuts and cheese or the organic food at a restaurant overlooking the banana plantations, you are bound to fall in love with this magnificent Maldivian wonder.

Mahoora Safari Camp, Yala

alex — Mon, 21 May 2012 15:38:41 +0000

Delve into the wild depths of Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park at Mahoora Safari Camp, a luxury tented encampment that couldn’t get any closer to the action if it tried. Here, the stunning natural landscape takes centre stage as you spot elephants, crocodiles and leopards by day, and by night dine under a star-swathed sky and rest your ahead in canvas-clad comfort as you drift off to the sounds of the wild. With exceptional service and delicious, freshly prepared cuisine, Mahoora is our pick for a little pocket of canvas couture amongst a startlingly beautiful and remote corner of Sri Lanka. It’s luxuriously comfortable, but fittingly so for a safari camp, so you never lose a sense of how close you are to your astonishing natural surroundings.

Location

At this place, it’s all about the location. And for nature-buffs, they simply do not come better than this. Mahoora Safari Camp is one of the only places where you can stay within the Yala National Park, a nature reserve stretching over Sri Lanka’s lush south-eastern corner, so there’s no long drives to get to the action for you; you’re already right in the thick of it. Yala is home to the highest concentration of leopards in the world and considered to be one of the best locations for spotting this otherwise elusive feline, along with a kaleidoscope of other wildlife. Manoora’s luxury tents are located right in the reserve’s heart, dotted throughout the trees and close to a river bank full of bird-life, surrounded by an untouched landscape made up of riverine forest, grasslands, sandy beaches and freshwater lagoons.

Your room

At Mahoora you stay in tents, but this is anything but your typical camping affair. There isn’t a roll mat or sleeping bag in sight at this place which proudly uses only the finest materials to hand-make each of its canvased private quarters. Luxuriously spacious and fully carpeted, with full length double beds, a seating area, private ensuite bathroom (complete with flushable loo and hot and cold shower) and patio space in each, they are like a little home-from-home in the middle of the Sri Lankan wilderness. It’s as five star as camping can get.

Why we like it

Mahoora isn’t just somewhere to lay your head at night, staying here is an experience; where wandering off the beaten track is rewarded with unforgettable memories and up-close encounters with some of nature’s most majestic creatures. Bringing a camera is an absolute must, but for us, there’s still nothing quite like just walking out of your tent and silently drinking in the breath-taking natural beauty that greets you every morning.

Mahua Kothi

Alice — Mon, 21 May 2012 12:06:04 +0000

High in the Vindya Hills and amidst the four hills of the Bandhavgarh National Park lies Mahua Kothi, a quaint and rustic bolthole with the charm of a country house and the luxury of a palace. With inspiration for the hotel taken from the Madhuca Indica (butter tree), Mahua Kothi is at the centre of a unique and delightful experience, much like the white flowers of the butter tree that take centre stage during traditional festivals.

Location

Spread out over 40 acre grounds, Mahua Kothi blends into the natural surroundings of the Bandhavgarh Nation Park in Northern India. In the perfect location to try your luck at spotting the infamous tiger, this luxury hotel is also close to the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

Your room

With just twelve individual cottages, each room is complete with traditional touches. From the tapered hand finished walls, to the handmade pottery roof tiles, you will be surrounded by local charm and exquisite ambience that will suit you perfectly as you disembark from your dusty safari.

Why we like it

Mahua Kothi is so close to the tiger sanctuary, you’ll be in the best position to spot these magnificent creatures and if the 4×4 isn’t adventurous enough for you, why not hop on the back of an elephant for a safari with a difference? If you start to feel peckish, enjoy a picnic by a watering hole to combine tantalising food with beautiful, serene surroundings.

Galle Fort Hotel

alex — Mon, 21 May 2012 10:25:20 +0000

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the wonders of Sri Lanka’s historic past at the Galle Fort Hotel. A former merchant’s mansion, this boutique bolthole has film-set looks and a delightfully unruffled, at-ease atmosphere that cannot help but make the place feel like a wonderfully charming, high-end home-from-home. Perfectly positioned right in the heart of the fort and with a blow-you-away selection of sumptuous suites to choose from, the Galle Fort Hotel is our perfect pick for an authentic yet luxurious Sri Lankan escape.

Location

Perched on the edge of Sri Lanka’s scenic southern coast, the hotel lies in a picture-perfect location, nestled deep within the walls of the historic 17^thcentury Galle Fort. A haven of calm right in the heart of the action, the Galle Fort Hotel makes an ideal base from which to explore the area’s stunning surroundings; a delightful patchwork of lush tea plantations and rolling hills, with swaying palms lining golden strips of sand against an azure sea.

Your room

Galle Fort Hotel is home to just twelve individually designed and supremely elegant rooms and suites that open out onto the columned central courtyard, giving the place a welcoming, yet discreet and intimate atmosphere. Each suite is extraordinarily spacious with high ceilings and original shuttered windows letting the light flood in. Dark teak, antique rugs and crisp white sheets on canopied four-poster beds echo a colonial grandeur of times gone by, but with a refreshing and comfortable atmosphere brought up to date with all of modernity’s luxury comforts. We were blown away by the sheer expanse and beauty of the Grand Apartment which, as one of the biggest suites in the whole of Sri Lanka, stretches across the entire top floor of the property’s old wing.

Why we like it

A hotel to match the majesty of the fort itself, the Galle Fort is the kind of place where days effortlessly drift into weeks in the blink of an eye. The hotel’s sublime Asian-fusion cuisine has gained rave reviews, and deservedly so; the sorbet alone was enough for us to declare our undying allegiance. But, for that perfect afternoon, tuck yourself away in a secluded pool-side corner with fragrant cup of local tea in hand, and just drink in the enchanting, frangipani-scented atmosphere.

The Ananda

Alice — Fri, 18 May 2012 12:07:34 +0000

The history of The Ananda dates back to the reign of the Maharaja with the elegant reception area hosting members of India’s head of state. Now, it prides itself on being a spiritual pathway with expertise in the traditional Indian wellness regimes, Ayurveda, Yoga and Vedanta. With an emphasis on holistic living, The Ananda is the ideal place to indulge in traditional luxury and enjoy the unique and specialist detox techniques of the Indian culture.

Location

The Ananda is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, in between the mythological cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh and surrounded by the graceful Sal forests. The remote location of this Indian retreat means you can fully unwind in amongst the stillness of the hills and natural flow of the rivers.

Your room

Stylish and elegant, your room is designed using colours that eco nature in an enchanting and relaxing way. Look out over the natural beauty of the foothills and admire the authentic and elaborate yet understated traditional touches. Your room at The Ananda is the ideal place to drift off into a peaceful slumber during your refreshing stay.

Why we like it

The Ananda’s commitment to everything natural it’s nothing short of inspiring. With garden fresh fruit and vegetables, personal and individual spa treatments and service with a completely natural smile, your stay is guaranteed to be entirely subjective to your own needs, tastes and preferences leaving you refreshed, cleansed and utterly pampered.

The Peninsula

Alice — Fri, 18 May 2012 10:11:05 +0000

With a river theme meandering its way through the hotel, The Peninsula perfectly combines traditional culture and modern luxury. By day explore the electric atmosphere of Bangkok and by night enjoy an intimate taste of home-style Thai cooking washed down with cocktails overlooking the Chao Phraya River.

Location

The Peninsula sits on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in the heart of the bustling city of Bangkok. This city is home to cultural traditions such as the exquisite open air markets as well as the contrasting modern culture of the twenty first century portrayed by its famous sky train. Uncover the mystery of over four hundred temples, explore the range of traditional and luxury shops and after a busy day, retire to your centrally located bolthole.

Your room

The Peninsula’s ‘W’ shaped design means that the rooms are hosts to stunning panoramic views of its riverside location. The silk furnishings make sure that you are surrounded by the height of luxury whilst a private balcony satisfies your need for that cityscape panorama. Look out over the Bangkok skyline and still enjoy unrivalled peace and tranquillity in traditional luxury.

Why we like it

The service at The Peninsula is second to none, the local staff go out of their way to make sure that your every need is catered for and make you feel like royalty. Whether you want your favourite cocktail by the three tiered pool or a recommendation for your perfect and personal spa treatment, The Peninsula has it all.

The Four Seasons, Chang Mai

Alice — Thu, 17 May 2012 16:25:36 +0000

They don’t call it the Rose of the North for nothing. Set in the stunning area of Chang Mai, the Four Seasons is a timeless classic which will satisfy your thirst for luxury and relaxation. Spend your days admiring traditional temples, exploring the Chiang Dao caves or just enjoy the calm serenity of this luxury bolthole.

Location

The Mae Rim Valley, often referred to as the Lanna Kingdom meaning ‘land of a million rice fields’ is home to Chang Mai, a city known for its beauty and spirit. Surrounded by green rice fields and an abundance of charm, the Four Seasons is the perfect spot for your Thai getaway.

Your room

Elegant and luxurious, charming and detailed, the rooms at the Four Seasons are complete with Thai decorations and Siamese artwork meaning you can be completely submersed in the Thai culture whilst being surrounded by complete luxury. Crafted from teak and tropical rosewood, each room has a calming and authentic feel yet in keeping with the chic luxury you love and crave.

Why we like it

Dining at the Four Seasons is not just your average dinner, it’s an experience. Choose between many a location at this awe inspiring haven. Wake up to breakfast in the rice paddies, the perfect way to start your day and to end it to an equally high standard, dine in the private rice barn and make a wish as you release your own Krathong (traditional banana leaf cup) into the pond. For those who want to recreate the culinary masterpieces on offer, take a seat at the chef’s table and watch the expert whip up your favourite local dish right before your very eyes.

Kahanda Kanda

alex — Thu, 17 May 2012 16:14:06 +0000

Swimming amongst the lush green tea plantations of Sri Lanka’s southern hills, Kahanda Kanda is a small yet perfectly formed boutique hotel. Wonderfully personal and insuppressibly charismatic, the property consists of three large living pavilions and just eight magnificent suites scattered amongst the flourishing grounds, complete with an infinity pool overlooking Koggala lake and a Massage Pavilion with some of the best views that we’ve ever seen. With stunning attention to detail in every aspect – from the impeccable service to the exquisite haute cuisine and finely tuned personal touches in each room – this hotel has us all of a flutter. Go on, run for the hills. This place is worth it.

Location

Set amongst a twelve-acre plantation on a working tea estate, Kahanda Kanda is nestled up in the rolling hills of southern Sri Lanka, just five kilometres inland from the coast and in easy reach of the beautiful and historic town of Galle; a colonial settlement built around the remnants of its fascinating 15th century fort. The hotel provides all the seclusion and picturesque tranquillity of a countryside retreat whilst remaining only a few minutes from local cultural hotspots, glistening beaches and the blissful blue water of the coast. So no matter what you’re mood, you’re never far away from all the best spots the area has to offer.

Your room

Elegance and understated sophistication oozes from every one of the Kahanda Kanda’s eight suites, each set apart in their own grounds with names such as ‘Tamarind’, ‘Tea’ and ‘Peacock’. Authentic antiques and four-poster beds covered in crisp white linen take centre stage in each room, harking back to the lavish colonial days gone by. Step outside onto the sweeping wraparound veranda to take in the staggering natural beauty of your surroundings, sit and read, or simply doze in the shade to the soothing sounds of birds calling through the trees.

Why we like it

The abundance of tropical flowers, mango trees and sheer greenness of the hotel’s surroundings gently lulled us into a serene aura of calm, made all the more sweet by the chic design and natural privacy of the individual suites. Sitting out on the veranda with a plate full of the most mouth-watering local mango is a moment we won’t be forgetting for a while.

Aditya

alex — Thu, 17 May 2012 11:01:15 +0000

Aditya is every bit the sumptuous Sri Lankan hideaway, nestled along the gilded shores and clear blue seas of the island’s historic southern coast. This is a discreet and distinctive boutique hotel whose wonderfully intimate atmosphere will have you feeling like you’ve arrived in an exceptionally luxurious home-from-home. What makes Aditya particularly special though is how it manages to masterfully blend luxury comfort with a strong eco-conscious, without compromising any of its sterling service standards. It’s the perfect place to lay back, relax, and unwind with a peace of mind.

Location

Aditya is located on the outskirts of the beautiful colonial town of Galle, tucked away on the coast of Sri Lanka’s most southerly corner. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Fort, around which the town spreads, was built in the 15th century and remains today as a stunning example of golden-age architecture and an echo of the region’s patchwork colonial past. Taking some time to wander its ramparts is a must, as well as exploring the area’s tranquil temples speckled throughout the lush surroundings and the quiet coastal town of Hikkaduwa, famous for its pristine beach, surf and vibrant coral life. By night, slink down to the coast’s secluded golden beaches to watch baby turtles hatch into the sea.

Your room

The hotel is home to just twelve private suites, each named after one of the solar deities of Hindu mythology. The select number of rooms gives a truly discreet and personalised atmosphere, with each room unique from the next and immaculately decorated with authentic local art and antiques from the region. But what really impressed us was the private balcony or veranda each and every suite comes with, complete with balmy plunge pools to soak in whilst gazing out over the gardens and sea.

Why we like it

Wave goodbye to the usual hotel conventions of restrictive meal times because at Aditya, there are no fixed meal times. You are free to eat when you want and where you want with the fantastic master chef custom preparing all your delicious meals. Staff are happy to set you up a table anywhere you please, from the privacy of your room to the silky sands of the sunset-drenched beach.