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The Hot 5: Emerging luxe destinations

Written by Timmy Coles-Liddle

The Hot 5: Emerging luxe destinations

Ariara Island, The Philippines

One of 7,000 islands within Indonesia’s Philippines, and until recently largely undiscovered, Ariara is surrounded by uninhabited, tropical islands – each dense with vivid green vegetation leading down to crystal clear waters.  The private island resort is set amongst 125 acres and provides an ultra-exclusive escape for desert island seekers requiring their very own private getaway.  Just a scattering of eight villas and suites - each generously sized, well appointed and with unobstructed vistas of the aqua marine ocean - provide ultra-luxe accommodation for up to eighteen guests who are greeted by sustainably sourced, hand-crafted furniture and beautifully designed en-suite bathrooms.

For the more adventurous, activities include world-class diving, personal training and volleyball on the beach.  Ariara’s very own 100ft tri-maran offers guests Mediterranean cruising with high-tech gadgets and en-suite cabins for daily ventures.

ariaraisland.com

Bahia Vik Jose Ignacio, Uruguay

Bahia Vik Jose Ignacio, Uruguay

Boasting ten acres of pearl-white sand dunes on the stunning Jose Ignacio peninsula, and with extraordinary vistas over the Southern Atlantic Ocean, this is the third boutique Vik resort in what is fast-becoming a go-to destination for luxury seekers.  Just eleven designer beachfront bungalows have been elegantly and thoughtfully constructed and filled with a revolving schedule of inspiring contemporary art and sculptures from revered local artists, curated by financier and art collector owner Alexander Vik.  

A library, games room and in-house spa complete the set up.  A gentle stroll along the breathtaking coast to check out sister resorts Estancia Vik and Playa Vik is de-rigueur.

bahiavik.com

Hotel Esencia, Mexico

Hotel Esencia, Mexico

Traditional design led architecture and a contemporary, boutique paradise await guests at Mexico's latest luxe opening.  Nestled on the stunning east coast’s Riviera Maya, and originally built as the private home of an Italian duchess, the hotel is located on one of the only remaining undeveloped shores on the Riviera, where the Yucatan jungle dissolves into the pristine sands of the Xph-ha.  

Art, ceramics and furniture features work by Picasso, Guariche and leading modern Latin-American artists.  Should your cultural appetitie tire in nearby Tulum, laze about the pretty resort which includes 29 sleek, spacious villas and guest rooms, an in-house spa, two restaurants and a cool beach bar.  

esencia.com 

Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia

Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia

If you are seeking an undiscovered tropical island hideaway with azure waters and pearl-white sandy beaches, then Cambodia’s untouched Koh Rong Archipelago could be for you.  Two picture postcard islands sit side by side and offer an abundance of lush rainforests and tropical coral reefs for guests to explore.  Each of Song Saa’s boutique luxury villas – just 27 of them – have been sympathetically constructed using age-old principles and materials such as thatch roofs and drift wood.

The boutique resort has an enviable commitment to nature and its rich history.  Founders Rory and Melita Hunter insist on adhering to ancient Cambodian traditions, locally sourced food and materials, and sustainable fishing from locals – a trade that was all but extinct until quite recently.  Replenish the soul and mind at the in-house Song Saa Sanctuary where the holistic wellbeing approach has been inspired by traditional Khmer healing practices.

songsaa.com

W Bogota, Colombia

W Bogota, Colombia

Located in Colombia’s ultra trendy Usaquen and Santa Barbara area, the sleek new W will bring its design-focused style to the urban landscape of cultural South America.  Ultra-modern suites and bedrooms are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and indulgent beds.   Whizz along to the hotel’s hip W Lounge and select a signature cocktail such as the Ginger Margarita or the Lulo Mojito from the carefully curated drinks menu.

Rejuvenate your mind and body at the 300 sq-m AWAY Spa and allow the therapists to tailor-make a treatment just for you, blending prescribed essential oils, to work in harmony with your skin. 

starwoodhotels.com

 

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