Time away offers an opportunity to ditch the routine and focus on self-fulfillment.
Journeys finds the pleasure principles in some of the world’s most luxurious locations.
Words by Ben Olsen
Immersive Indulgence
Close encounters with nature's largest land animals remain a bucket-list experience for many. Set amid the mountains of northern Thailand, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort offers an opportunity to witness elephants in their natural habitat. The resort's Jungle Bubble experience elevates this further still, allowing guests to spend a night in custom-designed outdoor observatories. With meals cooked by a private chef and served by a dedicated butler, it offers a privileged dusk-till-dawn perspective of the resort's rescued elephants.
Shopping Indulgence
For those seeking retail therapy on the French Riviera, a stay at Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel offers an elevated personal-shopping experience led by in-house stylist Malgorzata. Visiting salons, private collections and hidden gems, this four-hour session takes in the city’s most stylish stores during a bespoke experience shaped by expert advice, which concludes with a fashion illustrator capturing new looks with an exclusive portrait.
Travel Indulgence
Exploring Vietnam is an adventure in its own right, but to discover the lush landscapes and glistening shores between Da Nang and Quy Nhon onboard the country’s finest locomotive is a dream come true. The Vietage by Anantara is a luxury single-carriage railway experience from another era, offering gourmet dining, afternoon tea and unforgettable views along the way. Magical, mesmerising and unique.
Dining Indulgence
Zambia’s Avani Victoria Falls Resort has always had a strong reputation for serving guests superlative menus across its two restaurants and pool terrace. However, its concierge team offers a unique private dining experience that overlooks one of the world’s largest waterfalls. The magnificent Victoria Falls forms an awe-inspiring backdrop to a three-course meal that promises to be one of life’s most memorable.
After-Dark Indulgence
Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam began life as a 19th-century coffee shop,evolving into a destination epitomizing unique luxury travel. Its founder, a trained tailor, is referenced in the name of the hotel’s exquisite bar. Atmospheric, with decor that nods to its namesake’s trade, The Tailor’s cocktail menu – created by some of the city’s top mixologists – excels in elevated classics underpinned by homemade infusions, liqueurs and sodas.
Family Indulgence
Quality time with loved ones is the ultimate privilege for many, yet finding a holiday destination suitable for family groups is rarely straightforward. Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, situated between lush jungle and golden sands, has become a byword for quiet luxury in Thailand, with suites and villas scattered on the hills offering stunning coastal views. This stylish sanctuary sets the tone for a memorable escape, perfect for family-oriented luxury travel experiences.
Musical Indulgence
Harnessing the transformative power of dance and channelling the creative energy of the capital, nhow Berlin has created an events roster that invites guests to tap into techno nights at cult clubs like Berghain and Panorama. Sample workshops at urban dance school Flying Steps and enjoy DJ sets overlooking the city at Solar Sky Bar where visitors can embrace both the mindset and movement of this metropolis.
This article can be read in Edition 5 of Journeys Magazine. Discover it in Minor Hotels’ guest rooms worldwide.
