Comfort, style and adventure go hand-in-hand at these resorts and hotels
WINTER PLAYGROUND
Experience an array of snow activities on and off the slopes at the newly opened Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido. The resort is a haven for thrill seekers and those seeking relaxation, with beautiful mountains covered with soft, powdery snow, contemporary Japanese-inspired lodging and easily accessible ski facilities. There are 29 ski courses spanning 21.5 kilometres, with four ski trail ratings to accommodate all levels of skiers. Meanwhile, non-skiers are not left out as they can go on a biking adventure, try snow trekking or sledging, visit a nearby ice village or grab a drink at Bar Icewood. Between November and April, guests will have the option to take a break from the cold with a trip to Mina Mina Beach, which houses the largest indoor heated wave pool in Japan.
COLONIAL ROMANCE
Cruise down the mighty Mekong river like an explorer as Mekong Kingdoms Cruises by Minor Hotels takes guests on a river adventure teeming with images of old Indochina, mystical temples and stunning, untouched nature. Enjoy gourmet meals and plush cabins aboard a fleet of five vessels. The flagship, Bohème, is a 13-cabin luxury barge, complete with an expansive sundeck, wine cellar and spa. As you journey from Chiang Rai and Chiang Khong to Luang Prabang, and back upstream, an array of activities awaits on-shore, including guided jungle treks, a visit to the Pak Ou limestone caves, as well as a traditional weaving class at Ban Baw. For those craving an intimate escape, board the Gypsy, an exclusive two-cabin cruiser, while shorter day trips can be done on the Nomad, providing couples with a romantic getaway for sunset cruises.
ROMANCING THE RAILS
Be transported back in time to the golden era of travel aboard the Venice Simplon Orient Express, a private luxury train service that runs from London to Venice, as well as several European cities. Featuring original carriages from the 1920s that have been restored to their former glory, the historical train’s art-deco style oozes elegance and nostalgia. Spend a night in one of three private Grand Suites, each named after a romantic city to which the train travels. Opulent Istanbul is celebrated with hand-carved timber and embossed leather, whilst the haute couture of Paris is referenced with chic and elegant furnishings. The grandeur of Venice is interwoven with silk fabrics, hues of silver and grey, and Venetian glass adorning the baroque-style furnishings. All suites feature private bathrooms with showers, double beds and a living area for the ultimate in style and comfort. Guests travelling in the three suites will also enjoy private transfers to and from the train, where they will be welcomed by their personal cabin steward.
ULTIMATE GETAWAY
Enjoy the best of land and sea at The Slate Phuket with the Amphibian package, which combines ocean activities with ground adventures on top of a relaxing stay at a private pool villa. Get up close with diverse marine life and corals on a half-day snorkelling trip, then head on an excursion to meet local monks at a beautiful temple, or follow the resort’s chefs to local markets for a taste of authentic Thai cuisine. Return to unwind at the Coqoon Spa, where a selection of rejuvenating treatments is available. The package is inclusive of daily breakfast and dinner for two, and is valid for stays until 1 August.
