Our adventure began on the banks of the Rio Grande, a shimmering expanse of water cutting through the lush greenery of the Jamaican countryside. Perched on a bamboo raft, we embarked on a custom tour that unfolded not just at the pace of the river’s flow but also to the rhythm of our hearts. This was a leisurely journey meant to be savoured, where the destination was as enticing as the voyage itself.

The rafts, previously used to transport bananas from the interior to the coast, were now repurposed for our journey. Skilled and licensed raft captains helmed the rafts, using long poles to navigate the meandering river. Each raft, four feet wide and twenty-five feet long, sported a bamboo seat that invited us to relax and let the current guide us downstream.

Our journey was punctuated by multiple opportunities to stop along the riverbanks at places that seemed too inviting to merely float past. Romantic spots such as Lover’s Lane invited us to disembark for a picnic, while other stretches beckoned us to take a dip in the cool, refreshing waters. Throughout, the scenic backdrop of the Blue Mountains in the distance and the banana and coconut trees lining the riverbanks provided a picturesque panorama that echoed rustic tranquillity and pastoral serenity.

 

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From Bamboo Rafting to Jerk Chicken: A Cultural Journey in Portland, Jamaica

Our destination was Port Antonio, the capital city of Portland. Nestled on the hillsides, the city’s colourful houses were a delightful sight, their hues mirroring the vibrant pulse of reggae that finds its rhythm here. It was easy to imagine the beats of the music emanating from the heart of the city, flowing in harmony with the serenity of the surroundings.

Read More: Private Luxury Guide: 5 Most Undiscovered Caribbean Islands

Portland’s natural charm extends beyond the Rio Grande. Places such as Winnifred Beach and Frenchman’s Cove, with their azure waters, invite visitors to unwind. The vibrant ecosystem of Goblin Hill beckons exploration, while the mystical allure of the Blue Lagoon promises a dip into the fantastical. Reach Falls offers an immersion into the raw power and beauty of nature, and for the adventurous, horseback riding provides an alternative way to experience Portland’s landscape.

No journey to Portland is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. As we journeyed down the Rio Grande, we discovered a hidden gem – Belinda’s Café. Only accessible by bamboo raft, this rustic café is an eco-paradise for food lovers. The curried goat, rich and tender, was a delight.

 

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At Cynthia’s at Winnifred Beach, we savoured the local favourite, Ackee and Salt Fish, an explosion of flavours that pay homage to Jamaican culinary traditions. Woody’s offered a contemporary twist with their burgers paired with sweet, ripe plantains. And at Gurleys at Boston, we enjoyed authentic Jamaican jerk chicken and curry lobster, each bite a testament to the island’s rich culinary heritage.

Read  More: Antigua & Barbuda: A Superyacht Haven In The Caribbean

Portland, Jamaica is more than a vacation destination; it’s an enchanting world where nature, culture, and history dance in harmony. It’s an eco-paradise where one can experience the joy of floating down a river on a bamboo raft, swim in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, explore the lush greenery, and lose oneself in the rhythm of reggae. This is the essence of Portland – the beautiful parish on the northeastern coast of Jamaica, where time seems to slow, and where every moment invites you to embrace the beauty of nature and the warmth of its people.

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Anchored by a passion for enriching culinary experiences, these new excursions embrace a holistic approach to gastronomy. These aren’t fleeting encounters with local cuisine; they’re immersive, in-depth explorations into the heart of a region’s culinary identity. The spirit of these excursions is grounded in a hands-on approach, powered by a collaboration with local culinary experts, chefs, and knowledgeable guides.

Each excursion is a passage through the countries of France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Turkey, serving up a diverse palette of experiences, from exclusive wine tastings to cooking classes, all curated to reveal the secrets of authentic cuisine.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ 128 innovative culinary-focused shore excursions

Unfurl the delectable canvas of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ 128 innovative culinary-focused shore excursions as we sample a taste of their epicurean adventures. In the ancient city of Heraklion, Greece, you’ll unearth the culinary secrets of the Minoans amidst the serenity of olive groves. The hands-on cooking class invites you to experience the Minoan diet firsthand, revealing the stories and flavours of Crete’s early inhabitants. Dishes are prepared using organic ingredients, some of which are baked in a Minoan-style oven, all paired with wine made from grapes cultivated in the park’s vineyards.

The adventure continues in Dikili, Turkey, where the shores of the Aegean Sea meet remnants of ancient Greek and Roman civilisations. In this historic backdrop, guests will partake in a cooking class led by a local chef. The menu is a showcase of seasonality and locally sourced ingredients, embodying the essence of traditional Turkish cuisine. Dishes such as the shepherd’s salad, yuvalama soup, and the succulent adana kebab are prepared under the chef’s expert guidance, providing an authentic culinary experience.

The tranquillity of the Amalfi Coast in Italy offers a serene setting for another culinary experience. The “Farm to Table Amalfi-Style” tour is hosted at a family-owned organic farm in the 4th-century hilltop village of Scala. Walk amongst thriving fruit orchards, vegetable fields, and vineyards, while learning about organic farming methods. Each visit culminates in a lunch prepared with fresh ingredients plucked from the farm, the flavours of the produce accentuated by the stunning view of the Italian countryside.

Read More: Epicurean Ideas: Gastronomy & Glamour At Balearic Islands

Porto, Portugal, renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and iconic port wines, is another highlight of the culinary journey. Here, guests embark on a scenic drive through Porto’s UNESCO-recognised historic district. The architectural marvels of Porto are coupled with an immersive cultural experience at Graham’s Port Lodge in Gaia, where the nuances of port wine production are explained. An exquisite tasting session featuring appetisers expertly paired with various port wines wraps up the experience.

The luxury of this culinary voyage reaches a pinnacle in the Provence countryside, France. After exploring the glamorous Saint-Tropez, guests are transported to the breathtaking Ultimate Provence, an eco-friendly wine estate nestled in France’s largest nature reserve. Here, the gastronomical journey unfolds with fresh oysters, succulent seafood, and French cheeses like abundance, carefully paired with a selection of wines, including Ultimate Provence’s award-winning rosé blend.

In Menorca, Spain, the quintessential island experience is fused with a culinary tradition that dates back a century. At Sa Llagosta restaurant in Fornells, guests savour the island’s signature lobster stew, a testament to the culinary prowess of Chef David Coca. The culinary experience is made even more memorable by the stunning vistas of the island, including the panoramic view from Monte Toro, Menorca’s highest peak.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Epic Mediterranean Food Expedition, images were provided by Regent Seven Seas Cruises®

Such extraordinary culinary-focused shore excursions form the cornerstone of Regent’s “Epicurean Perfection” program, underscoring their belief in luxury as an all-inclusive indulgence. Each curated adventure is a testament to the line’s vision of luxury cruising as an enriching journey that goes beyond picturesque locales and dives deep into the very soul of a destination – its cuisine. So, for the avid traveller yearning for an unparalleled blend of travel and gastronomy, the Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers an invitation to embark on a voyage that promises to engage, educate and inspire, one port at a time.

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A crowning centrepiece in the COMO Orchard, an opulent 19-floor tower dedicated to immersive experiences, the hotel elucidates the group’s seamless amalgamation of hospitality, fashion, wellness, and cuisine. With the spirit of COMO suffusing every element of the hotel, COMO Metropolitan Singapore is set to transform Singapore’s landscape into a vibrant tapestry of luxury lifestyle experiences.

Stretching across 11 floors, the hotel brims with bespoke offerings. A resplendent roster of 156 rooms, each a veritable haven of tranquillity, boasts city views. A battalion of design virtuosos, including Italian architect Paola Navone, Japanese interior design consultant Koichiro Ikebuchi, American-Thai designer Preeti Sriratana, and Norwegian digital artist Thomas Hilland, have cast their creative spells to fashion an aesthetic that marries city living with wellness.

COMO Metropolitan Singapore

Lovers of gastronomy will rejoice in the presence of three distinctive dining establishments. The hotel plays host to COTE by Simon Kim, the Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse from New York and Miami, in its first-ever international location. Simultaneously, COMO Cuisine teases the palate with all-day dining classics, Singaporean favourites, and healthful offerings from the renowned COMO Shambhala Cuisine. The sweetness of life will be personified by the Asian debut of the iconic French pastry chef Cédric Grolet, who will entice guests with his exquisite confections.

Luxury extends beyond the dining and into the recreational with a rooftop pool bar, ideal for sundowners against the Singapore skyline, and an expansive 9,000-square-foot wellness centre. An ode to holistic well-being, the wellness centre features a plethora of services, from spa treatments to fitness regimes such as yoga, Pilates, and Gyro, along with diagnostics for gut health and body composition.

Read More: Bulgari Hotel Roma: Rome’s New Icon Of Luxurious Hospitality

For those inclined towards fashion and retail, the hotel promises a curated offering. The COMO-curated life is a vision brought to life, a reflection of the group’s integrated approach to living well. Wellness packages, workshops, and classes abound, allowing guests to choose their wellness journey or have one personalized.

COMO Metropolitan Singapore is more than a hotel; it will be a veritable cultural landmark of Singapore, an inspiring gathering spot that caters to every mood, from dawn to dusk. It encapsulates the group’s vision of authenticity and luxurious living, encapsulated in the signature COMO service.

Read More: 18 Retreats Perfect For Your Wellness Journey

As the clock ticks towards the grand opening, the city-state holds its breath in anticipation of a refreshing gust of luxury, courtesy of COMO Metropolitan Singapore. The hotel promises to redefine the concept of luxury hospitality, providing an unparalleled blend of sumptuous accommodation, gourmet dining, holistic wellness, and stylish fashion in the ever-bustling landscape of Singapore.

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Defying altitudes and bridging borders, the cableway will seamlessly ferry passengers from the dizzying heights of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise mountain station perched at 3,883 meters, to the Testa Grigia valley station nestled at 3,480 meters. This groundbreaking journey charts a path across the time-sculpted Theodul glacier, a thrilling four-minute ride that eclipses conventional mountaineering.

Redefining Mountain Travel with Matterhorn Glacier Ride II

This state-of-the-art cableway is an engineering marvel. With a capacity to transport up to 1,300 awestruck passengers per hour, the Matterhorn Glacier Ride II promises to redefine the alpine travel experience. The fast paced journey spans 1.6 km and leverages advanced 3S cableway technology for a comfortable, wind-resistant ride. Add to that a max speed of 7.5 meters per second, and you’ve got an adrenaline-fueled alternative to traditional skiing and snowboarding.

MATTERHORN GLACIER RIDE II, copyright of Zermatt Bergbahnen

But the real showstopper? The cableway’s 10 Crystal Ride cabins with 28 seats each. These mobile observatories, suspended in the Alpine heavens, feature a transparent floor offering an immersive, bird’s-eye view of the glaciated landscapes below.

Read More: A Canton Of Contrasts: Experience The Best Of Switzerland In Valais

Scenic trip around the Matterhorn, from Zermatt to Breuil Cervinia

From the quaint charm of Zermatt, a village that’s held the Matterhorn in its constant gaze for centuries, to the undulating meadows of Furi mountain station at 1,867 meters, every point of this journey is a postcard brought to life. From there, passengers head towards Schwarzsee via the Matterhorn Express, as the majestic Matterhorn poses against the clear alpine sky.

At Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the world morphs into a stunning spectacle of 38 peaks reaching past 4,000 meters and 14 glistening glaciers. As passengers cross the border at Testa Grigia, Italy beckons, revealing panoramic views of the glacier.

MATTERHORN GLACIER RIDE I, copyright of Zermatt Bergbahnen

VALLEY STATION MATTERHORN GLACIER RIDE II, Copyright © 2022 Zermatt Bergbahnen AG

As the journey continues, passengers descend to the Cime Bianche Leghi station, where a landscape of lakes spreads out under the shadow of the ice and rock. Finally, the cableway reaches its terminus at the Italian resort of Breuil-Cervinia, the sister city to Zermatt, under the shadow of the Matterhorn’s Italian face, the Gran Becca.

Read More: Get Ready For A Winter Dream – Ski, Sledge, Relax & Recharge In Valais

This ambitious venture isn’t merely about conquering altitudes or pushing the limits of engineering. It’s a symphony that plays to the rhythm of the mountains, a tribute to the Alpine spirit that is now accessible to all – on foot, on skis, and high above in the new Matterhorn Glacier Ride II.

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Situated in Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City, the city’s tallest urban lifestyle complex, The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka graces the topmost nine floors of a 25-story glass tower. Designed by Tokyo’s renowned architectural firm Kume Sekkei, the hotel delivers an exquisite blend of modern design and beautiful panoramas. Nestled adjacent to Tenjin, the city’s vibrant hub, the hotel places its guests at the heart of a bustling metropolis teeming with cultural experiences and vivacious nightlife.

Itoshima, Präfektur Fukuoka, Japan, Photo by Jan Bouken, Pexels

The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka exudes a sophisticated charm inspired by the traditional Hakata-ori, Fukuoka’s age-old silk and kimono weaving craft. This fusion of local artistry and contemporary luxury is embodied in each folding screen, sculpture, and woven textile adorning the hotel’s interior, crafted by the talented hands of local artisans.

Explore Fukuoka: From Shoreline Adventures to Cultural Treasures

A gateway to the rich heritage and diverse attractions of one of Japan’s most populated cities, the hotel serves as an ideal base for exploring Fukuoka. Known for its beautiful beaches, natural parks, and historic landmarks such as the 12th-century Shofukuji temple and the Fukuoka Castle ruins, the city brims with unforgettable experiences.

Fukuoka’s natural splendours do not stop at the city limits. Its shoreline provides ample opportunities for watersports, while a more leisurely pace of life can be found amidst its mountainous trails. The region’s world-class seafood and ramen are gastronomic delights not to be missed. Adding to the city’s cultural richness is the 800-year-old Hakata Gion Yamakasa summer festival, a captivating spectacle recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka: Traditional Elegance and Modern Luxury

Within The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka, each of the 167 rooms, including 20 premium suites, are designed to cater to the discerning needs of contemporary travellers. Adorned with elegant décor, these accommodations offer breathtaking views of the city, the tranquil Ohori Park, or the stunning Hakata Bay. The hotel also dedicates its topmost floor to The Ritz-Carlton Club, an exclusive lounge designed for club and suite guests, ensuring an enhanced experience of luxury and privacy.

South Japan’s New Luxury Hotel The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka Deluxe Suite

Dining at The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka promises a culinary journey highlighting local ingredients. Viridis, one of the hotel’s four restaurants, specializes in Western cuisine, while the stylish Genjyu pays homage to Japan’s culinary traditions through its Kaiseki, sushi, and teppanyaki menus. In the Lobby Lounge & Bar and Diva, guests can partake in light meals, decadent desserts, and an afternoon tea experience celebrating Kyushu’s renowned green teas.

South Japan’s New Luxury Hotel The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka – Bay

The hotel’s bay-facing restaurant, Bay, draws inspiration from Hakata Bay’s passing ships. It offers an eclectic mix of original cocktails paired with chargrilled dishes and tapas, all to be savoured on its scenic terrace. This fusion of innovative cuisine and stunning views results in a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, on the 24th floor, is the hotel’s wellness haven. Guests can immerse themselves in tranquillity in the indoor swimming pool that overlooks the bay or indulge in treatments using local ingredients and products from ESPA.

Read More: Luxury Family Getaways In Japan

With its combination of luxury, culturally inspired designs, and world-class service, The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka is poised to become a coveted destination for global travellers when heading to Southern Japan. Offering a rich tapestry of local heritage and modern sophistication, the hotel beckons guests to embark on a journey of cultural exploration and top-tier indulgence.

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Open from June 29 to September 3, 2023, this rooftop paradise exudes an ambience reminiscent of an English garden concealed from the outside world. With the harmonious blend of live acoustic performances and the soothing murmur of nature sounds, guests can immerse themselves in a serene haven adorned with lush foliage, pot gardens, and fairy-lit decking under the shade of spacious terrace umbrellas.

An Epicurean Journey Under the Sky at The Dorchester Rooftop

Guided by Martyn Nail, The Dorchester’s Culinary Director, the rooftop offers a summer-inspired gastronomic journey. The menu, designed around the concept of shared brunch-style dining, boasts a selection of dishes that blend luxury and comfort.

Savour British Summer At Mayfair’s Hideaway The Dorchester Rooftop

Food lovers can anticipate an array of delicacies like sea-fresh oysters, a variety of seafood platters, grilled Cornish lobster fregola, and more indulgent offerings like the rich côte de boeuf and creamy truffle risotto. For those with a penchant for sweets, summer berry cheesecake and The Dorchester’s exclusive 68% chocolate parfait are among the delightful treats on offer. The menu also features lighter bites such as ponzu mayo-dressed tempura prawns, rooftop sliders, and truffle-infused eclairs.

The Dorchester Rooftop’s summer menu – Cote du boeuf

The Dorchester Rooftop’s Rooftop Sliders & Cocktails

Sip the Summer Breeze at The Dorchester Rooftop

Pairing perfectly with the sun-drenched days and warm evenings, a cocktail menu rich in herbs and botanicals awaits visitors. Standout drinks include the ‘Endless Summer’ and ‘Prairie Breeze’, each garnished with striking floral accents.

The rooftop restaurant and bar will operate from Thursday to Saturday, serving lunch and dinner, while Sundays will feature an enticing lunch service.

Read More: Symphony Of Style: Prada Caffè Opens At Harrods, London

A History of Gastronomic Wonders at The Dorchester Rooftop

In previous years, The Dorchester Rooftop has hosted an impressive lineup of chef residencies and culinary pop-ups. These included Tom Booton’s British summertime menu and The Grill, Mario Perera’s Sri Lankan specialities, and Jean-Philippe Blondet’s Mediterranean-themed delights in 2022.

This tradition of culinary excellence extends beyond the rooftop at The Dorchester. The hotel’s illustrious dining establishments range from the three Michelin-starred Alain Ducasse to China Tang, The Grill by Tom Booton, and the timeless afternoon tea.

Read More: Luxurious Wellness Oasis: Raffles London’s Guerlain Spa

With the reopening of The Dorchester Rooftop, the hotel continues to elevate its gastronomic reputation, creating a summer experience that offers guests breathtaking views, exceptional dining, and a captivating ambience.

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© This article was first published online in July 2023 – World Travel Magazine.

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From June 13 to August 6, 2023, visitors can bask in the Dioriviera collection’s allure showcased in a romantic dusk pink setup at the Ember Beach Club, against the backdrop of Malaysia’s beautiful coastline.

An Ocean-Side Runway Experience at Desaru Coast

The Dioriviera collection, known for its vibrant palette of soft hues from pink to gray, and cream to blue, will transform the resort into a beach-side fashion hub. Apart from the collection’s eye-catching outfits, Dior’s enchanting motifs will be splashed across dining areas, sun loungers, cabanas, and pools, turning the resort into a scenic venue that breathes the spirit of Dior.

Adding to the experience is the Dior retail space nestled within a whimsical, larger-than-life sandcastle by the ocean. Fashion-forward guests can enjoy a breezy shopping spree under the Malaysian sun, with an array of fashion accessories like deck chairs, surfboards, table tennis rackets, and a set of boules bearing the signature Dior charm on offer.

Dior Meets Tropical Charm at Desaru’s One&Only Resort, photo by ERIC CHOW

Indulging the Gastronomic Senses at the Dior Café

At the heart of the collaboration, the Dior Cafe at Ember Beach Club promises a refined dining experience that blends the culinary treasures of France and Malaysia. The Mediterranean-inspired menu, carefully curated by Raymond Tham, Dior Malaysia’s Chef Partner, pays homage to Malaysia’s fresh local produce with a luxurious French twist.

Chef Tham, known for his culinary wizardry at the popular Kuala Lumpur restaurants Beta KL and Skillet @ 163, brings the art of French dining to the tropical resort, adding an extra layer of indulgence to the high-fashion beach getaway.

Read More: Phuket’s New Floating Party Zone: Yona Beach Club

The Blend of Luxury and Tropical Elegance at Desaru Coast

“We cannot be more thrilled to be the resort of choice to host a high-profile lifestyle event of this scale in Desaru and Malaysia,” said Jerome Pichon, General Manager of One&Only Desaru Coast. “Dior and One&Only are leading icons of exceptional class for our discerning clientele, and we are proud to demonstrate our shared values through this inaugural pop-up experience.”

Dior Meets Tropical Charm at Desaru’s One&Only Resort, photo by ERIC CHOW

Dior Meets Tropical Charm at Desaru’s One&Only Resort, photo by ERIC CHOW

The luxury pop-up promises to bring an element of sophistication to Malaysia’s Desaru Coast. From the fashion-forward crowd to gastronomy enthusiasts, the exclusive pop-up is set to impress with its unique blend of fashion, lifestyle, and cuisine – offering an unforgettable luxury experience for all visitors.

Read More: Indulgence & Adventure: Royal Scotsman Meets Dior & Michelin Chef

The Dioriviera Pop-Up and Cafe will be open from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm daily, offering guests a full day of Parisian sophistication amidst the vibrant tropical vibe of Malaysia. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this luxury escapade, where the world of high fashion meets the enchanting tropical allure of Desaru Coast.

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© This article was first published online in July 2023 – World Travel Magazine.

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As the ninth offering in Bulgari’s portfolio of luxury hotels around the globe, and the second in Italy after the brand’s Milan venture in 2004, Bulgari Hotel Roma is a testament to the luxury brand’s commitment to excellence and refinement. Occupying a sprawling edifice of six floors, the hotel is home to 114 rooms, including 48 suites, each thoughtfully decorated in four distinct colour palettes: white, yellow, red, and green.

 

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Each corner of the hotel tells a story of Rome, its history, and its culture. Designed by architect Vittorio Ballio Morpurgo, the Bulgari Hotel Roma seamlessly integrates the grandeur of Rome’s architectural heritage with Bulgari’s unmistakable touch of luxury. At the entrance, guests are greeted by an imposing marble statue of Emperor Augustus from the esteemed Torlonia collection, a fitting tribute to the city’s glorious past.

Bulgari’s deep-rooted love for artistry and craftsmanship is on full display throughout the hotel. The intricate handmade mosaics inspired by iconic Bulgari motifs, meticulously crafted in the province of Friuli, infuse the hotel with a unique charm. The hand-blown Murano glass lights and the precious Ginori vases from the 1930s further enhance the visual narrative, reinforcing the harmonious fusion of traditional Italian design with modern aesthetics.

Read More: Cortina D’Ampezzo: Italy’s Stylish Mountain Retreat

Bulgari Hotel Roma is not just a hotel; it’s a temple of luxury hospitality. Its appeal lies in the use of precious materials, the embodiment of elegance in its design, and the service it offers guests. The Bulgari suite, covering an entire floor, is a testament to this commitment, offering luxury to discerning guests.

The experiences at Bulgari Hotel Roma

Beyond the exquisite rooms, the hotel offers a variety of gastronomic, wellness, and leisure experiences. “Il Ristorante” is helmed by Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito, one of Italy’s top culinary maestros. He, along with Chef Emilio Di Cristo, curates a contemporary Italian menu, transporting guests on a culinary journey through Italy’s diverse regions. From the Bvlgari Bar, guests can relish unparalleled views of Rome while enjoying their favourite drinks.

Bulgari Hotel Roma – Bulgari Dolci

The Spa at Bulgari Hotel Roma provides a sanctuary for relaxation, featuring a Roman bath-style swimming pool adorned with columns, gold mosaics, and a fountain. On the rooftop, the terrace, “La Terrazza”, invites guests to unwind in cabanas and lounge areas while soaking in panoramic views of Rome’s skyline. For those with a sweet tooth, the Bulgari Dolci boutique offers a chance to savour the renowned Bulgari ‘chocolate gem’ along with a selection of traditional Italian pastries from the La Pasticceria – Niko Romito menu.

Bulgari Hotel Roma Spa Pool

The hotel’s renovation was meticulously executed by ACPV (Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel), the architect behind all of Bulgari’s hotels and resorts, further cementing the continuity in Bulgari’s vision for its hotel portfolio. With future openings planned in Paris and Tokyo, Bulgari is set to continue its tradition of bringing Italian elegance to the world, a journey that started with Bulgari’s flagship store opening in 1934 on Rome’s Via Condotti.

Read More: Orient Express Returns To Italy With 6 La Dolce Vita Trains

Bulgari Hotel Roma serves as a beacon of Italian luxury, where the past, present, and future come together to create a unique narrative. It is a space where guests can experience Rome in an entirely new way, steeped in luxury, elegance, and, above all, the incomparable charm of Bulgari.

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© This article was first published online in June 2023 – World Travel Magazine.

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To truly appreciate Hon Kho Island, one must immerse oneself in its maritime offerings. A kaleidoscope of marine life finds its sanctuary here, with snorkelers and paddlers becoming the fortunate spectators. As a local islander and tour guide highlighted, “Every time I dive into these waters, I feel like I’m entering an enchanted kingdom.”

Imagine being on a paddleboard, the golden sunrise or crimson sunset painting the sky and the sea with spectacular hues. The calm yet assertive rhythm of the waves beneath and the cool wind whistling past adds a tingling sensation to the experience. Such are the moments that make Hon Kho Island a place where time seems to stand still.

In the peak of summer, between May and July, a unique phenomenon occurs beneath the shimmering surface of the waters surrounding Hon Kho. A vibrant bloom of seaweed emerges, painting a stunning picture akin to a “golden field” beneath the sea. The arrival of this underwater spectacle marks the season when marine life thrives, creating a surreal snorkelling experience. One of the frequent visitors, Minh Tran, describes it as “Diving into a treasure chest of nature’s best-kept secrets.”

Read More: Luxurious Train Journey In Vietnam With Vietage

The beauty of Hon Kho Island extends beyond the marine spectacle. You can explore the island’s nooks and crannies in a rented boat or canoe. Each row offers a new panorama – the rustic dry cliffs juxtaposed with the vivacious sea, the floating raft nestled close to the shoreline, and the sun playing peekaboo with the clear, blue waters.

 

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Exploring Quy Nhon

Just a 6-kilometre ride from Quy Nhon, the island is marked by its ancient geological history, evident in the parched cliffs reaching out towards the sea. This contrast between the arid cliffs and the vibrant marine life creates a striking paradox, adding to the island’s uniqueness.

While the appeal of Hon Kho Island is unmistakable, the wider region of Quy Nhon in Vietnam also offers a plethora of sights and experiences. From the pristine sands of Ky Co Island to the mystical caves of the Wind Strait and the serene beauty of the Ngoc Hoa Monastery, Quy Nhon is a symphony of awe-inspiring landscapes waiting to be discovered.

Read More: Explore Con Dao, Vietnam’s Hidden Island Getaway

A trip to Hon Kho Island isn’t merely a journey – it’s a harmonious symphony of land and sea, offering an unparalleled experience of connecting with nature. Here, every moment is laden with the enchanting tranquillity of the untouched environment and a refreshing dose of ‘Vitamin Sea’.

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The Rissai Valley, situated in southwestern China, lies in close proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jiuzhaigou Valley and the World Biosphere Reserve. This location is an emblem of exceptional natural beauty, with towering alpine mountains that rise above dense forests, glimmering lakes, and cascading waterfalls.

The Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area, encompassing a vast expanse of 72,000 hectares, is a national nature reserve protected for its unique ecosystem. The forested landscapes of the Jiuzhaigou National Park serve as a sanctuary for China’s cherished and endangered species, the giant pandas, making this location a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Visitors to the Rissai Valley have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the extraordinary surroundings, whether through a peaceful hike in the national park or indulging in traditional Tibetan cuisine. Aspects of the resort pays homage to the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders that envelop it.

“We are thrilled to debut Rissai Valley, China’s first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Jiuzhaigou, one of the most stunningly beautiful and culturally rich areas of the world,” said Tina Edmundson, President, Luxury, Marriott International. “Rissai Valley is the sixth property in a rare portfolio of exclusive estates worldwide, offering an intimate and transformative experience rooted in heartfelt care and human connection.”

Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

A stay at Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

The Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Rissai Valley consists of 87 intimate villas, each designed to blend seamlessly with the enchanting landscape. The architectural firm WATG has masterfully combined traditional building forms with locally-sourced materials, paying homage to the region’s natural surroundings and Tibetan heritage. The interiors, curated by renowned designer Jaya Ibrahim, echo the beauty of the landscape, incorporating palettes of forest greens, emeralds, and icy blues to mirror the jewel-coloured lakes and waterfalls of Jiuzhaigou.

In the tradition of true luxury, each villa at the Rissai Valley Reserve is assigned a personal host, or a “Nieba” in the local language. Acting as a personal butler, the Nieba caters to guests’ needs, enhancing the personalized experience the resort promises to deliver.

Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – Cai Lin Xuan

Culinary explorers will find themselves delighted by the diverse dining options at the resort. The all-day dining venue, Bo Ri Village, offers a unique gastronomic journey set in the charm of an idyllic ancient village. For those inclined towards local flavours, the refined Sichuan restaurant Cai Lin Xuan highlights local specialities. Additionally, La Montagne offers a western menu, complemented by al fresco barbecues and breathtaking views of the stunning landscape.

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Relaxation and rejuvenation are integral to the Rissai Valley experience, and the Rissai Spa does justice to this promise. The spa menu comprises a selection of healing practices like singing bowl sound therapy and yoga sessions that take place beside a cascading waterfall. The experience is elevated by an infinity swimming pool that seems to merge with the surrounding landscape, further blurring the lines between the resort and the valley.

Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

“Rissai Valley is a truly magical place, nestled in the landscapes and surroundings of one of the most mythical natural wonders of the world,” said Marcel Damen, General Manager, Rissai Valley. “As the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in China, we look forward to welcoming guests to a place of marvellous beauty and to experiencing the many curated experiences that connect guests with the rich local culture.”

In essence, the Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is more than a luxury resort; it is a passage into the heart of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, where the grandeur of nature, the allure of Tibetan culture, and the charm of luxurious living intertwine to create an experience like no other. It invites guests to experience, explore, and immerse themselves in a distinctive natural beauty, culture, and luxury blend. Whether spotting a giant panda in the wild, tasting local delicacies, or simply unwinding in your villa under the majestic alpine mountains, every moment here is bound to be an unforgettable memory.

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© This article was first published online in June 2023 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve: Tibetan Treasure Unveiled first appeared on World Travel Magazine.