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WINTER HOT SPOTS

Written by Timmy Coles-Liddle

WINTER HOT SPOTS

Seven Stars Resort, Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos Islands

Whether you seek a sophisticated four-bedroom suite or a modest junior one, this super-luxe resort offers 107 of them to choose from.  Marble bathrooms, granite kitchens and all the mod cons one could wish for, along with stunning views to the forty different Turks & Caicos Islands from your private balcony.

If exhileration is your thing, whizz off into the ocean on a wakeboard, or try parasailing, kayaking or windsurfing with your very own instructor.  Why not take one of the resort’s bicycles for a spin and explore the beautiful surroundings before returning to the resort’s spa for a hot stone therapy massage?

Indulge in the ultimate holiday treat: freshly prepared seafood and crisp salads served at your cabana bed by the pool overlooking Grace Bay.  For the ultimate in holiday decadence, NINE recommends the mojito!

Desroches Island, Seychelles

Desroches Island, Seychelles

Surely one of the most breathtaking and lush of private islands, set miles and miles away from anywhere in the Indian Ocean’s Amirantes group of islands, Desroches offers marine life and beautifully clear coral reefs in abundance.  One of very few tourist islands that is devoted to conserving its natural environment.  Eco-friendly travellers who possess a penchant for luxury will revel in the luscious surroundings, dense woods and pure, un-spoilt sandy beaches.   

Tantalise the taste buds with traditional Indian Ocean cuisine at the Michelin-starred Terrace restaurant while gazing into the deep blue sea beyond.  Rest assured almost all of the produce served has been locally sourced and guests are invited to select a favourite tipple from the extensive international wine list. 

The retreat within a retreat Escape Spa offers a marvellous array of Indian-inspired treatments to calm, stimulate and harmonise the body and soul.  We suggest the Ayurveda body massage - essential oils are warmed before being applied to the skin.  Absolute bliss!

The Residence Maldives

The Residence Maldives

Located 242 miles away from the nearest airport, Male, this ultra exclusive resort offers privacy and tranquility in abundance.  Approached by a private seaplane and then a small boat, the natural surroundings of the Maldivian coast will excite and relax in equal measure.  Each of the spacious villas is decked out beautifully with traditional materials and chic, contemporary interiors.  Why not slip into the sea via your private jetty and explore the stunning reefs with a dive expert?

Both restaurants serve an eclectic mix of Western, Asian and Indian cuisine with freshly caught seafood and healthy salads featuring highly.  For the ultimate in romantic dining, the hotel will whisk couples off to a private castaway island where a dinner will be served in absolute privacy.  Sheer bliss!

Ayana Resort and Spa, Bali

Ayana Resort and Spa, Bali

Offering outstanding views of the Indian Ocean nestled perfectly within its own tropical gardens, Ayana sits atop the stunning yet tranquil Jimbaran Bay, just ten kilometres from the airport.  Whether you choose one of the super-luxe private villas or a hotel room, you will receive exceptional, highly personalised service by the genuine and charming Balinese staff.

Experience the award-wining Spa on the Rocks for the ultimate in tranquil escapism: a private spa villa perched on a rock above the crystal clear waters below. 

If you can bear to tear yourself away from the superb restaurants, the four swimming pools and the private beach, a visit to trendy Rock Bar is an absolute must.  Situated proudly in a striking and exhilarating position on the cliffs high above the crashing waves beneath, the bar offers the ultimate in cool, chic contemporary drinking