As you embark on your journey to vitality and wellness, here is World Travel Magazine’s selection of 18 retreats worldwide that will help get things off the ground or continue the progress.

Wellness Retreats in Australasia

Aro Ha, Glenorchy, New Zealand

Located in the Southern Alps in New Zealand’s Glenorchy, Aro Ha is a refined wellness retreat that focuses on creating an atmosphere of vitality and rejuvenation for its guests. The programs at Aro Ha are designed to regenerate the body and mind with the idea that good physical and emotional health can be attained through daily habits.

You will be encouraged to switch from technology and the rest of the world and practice and learn mindfulness & healing bodywork. The retreats at Aro Ha emphasize overall wellness and give you the chance to become healthier.

At Aro Ha, Yoga, nutrition and mindfulness are your chance to relax and make peace with your body and soul. Techniques such as hydrotherapy, reflexology and, deep breathing exercises help to reduce stress and strengthen your immunity. When you’re out on one of the many subalpine trails around the retreat, it’s easy for your mind to wander. The natural beauty all around helps take away any stress or cares that may be weighing down and jump-start the healing journey.

 

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Read More: Wellness Retreats On The Rise

Wellness Retreats in Asia

Ananda In The Himalayas – India

The Anand Spa Resort in Narendra Nagar is the Himalayan Retreat you need to revitalize and rejuvenate your body. Located in the Himalayan foothills, this destination spa has it all. From Ayurvedic Treatments to Healing Experiences, Ananda has holistic remedies for your mind, body and soul.

Housed in the erstwhile Tehri Garhwal Royals Palace, Ananda offers a host of experiences, each rooted in ancient India’s practices. Ayurveda is intrinsic to this spa. It helps guests incorporate changes into their daily life. The Ayurvedic programme is prescribed by the house Ayurveda physician after detailed consultation.

When here, try out the Tibetan Ku Nye Massage that focuses on lymphatic drainage, acupressure and stimulates a free flow of energy within the body.

 

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Vana – Dehradun, India

Vana is a wellness retreat for those looking to restore the equilibrium in their life. You have the chance to shift your focus inwards and attune yourself to your body. Ayurvedic wellness offerings are incorporated in every program, and you can complement your retreat with Sowa Rigpa, the traditional Tibetan medical system, for optimal results.

The wellness of the body and the mind go hand in hand, so here you have the opportunity to strengthen both and bring them up to speed with the other. Detoxifying your body is an integral part of healing the soul, and Panchkarma detox is a great way to venture on that journey. Through consultations with the in-house Ayurvedic doctors, find the perfect detox program for yourself that’ll help you rid yourself of doshas.

Include Yoga to support your physical wellbeing and Sowa Rigpa to support your mental wellbeing when at Vana. Then choose a program, surrender to yourself and boost your wellbeing for the upcoming year.

 

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Six Senses Zil Pasyon – Seychelles

The exclusive resort on the island of Félicité, Six Senses Zil Pasyon, is a paradise where you can be one with yourself and the elements. African inspired treatments that incorporate Félicité’s natural surroundings will help your journey to elevate your wellbeing.

Personalized Wellness is in focus at Zil Pasyon – starting with consultations, Wellness Screenings, to sleep upgrades. “The Wellness Screening” involves non-invasive screening that measures key biomarkers to help you understand what you need most to get a good night’s rest. If you’re losing sleep over sleep, use your personal consultations to rest better by biomarkers tracking and using speciality bedding. Finally, find a program that suits you and rest easier at night knowing that you are in tune with yourself.

 

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Kai Hakone – Kanagawa, Japan

First established in 1914 as a traditional Japanese Ryokan, the Hakone Yumoto Onsen in Kanagawa is a traditional Japanese Hot Springs Inn set along the Sukumo River. Offering lush woodland views and interiors fed with Hakone parquetry, the Ryokan provides an experience fuelled and fed by a 1,200-year-old hot spring.

At the Ryokan, soak in the hot baths with ancient Hinoki Cypress surround you with tea at the traditional teahouse. Then, mix your wellness journey to the Kanagawa prefecture with forest bathing and walking tours.
The Kai Hakone is also an excellent place to learn about the history and the relationship between the concept of hot spring healing and the local population. Enjoy a deep dive into the culture and visit the nearby shrines while keeping the Kai Hakone central for all your local travels.

 

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Fivelements Retreat – Bali, Indonesia

The Fivelements Retreat Bali is a wellness retreat in the quiet village of Mambal, near Ubud, that strives to be eco-conscious. Though it offers traditional Balinese healing and the arts, this resort’s holistic approach will take you on an experience of self-discovery as well.

Healing is an art that has been infused with the Balinese way of life. They encourage us to find greater harmony within ourselves and our surroundings by practising holistic principles like “nurturing” or treating everything as part of one system. Indulge in an ancient, holistic healing tradition that has been passed down for generations. The Balinese-inspired therapies here are administered by traditional healers and use wisdom from the past to improve your well being today.

Read More: Waves & Wellness: Guide To Luxurious Surf Resorts For Grown-Ups

Melukat rituals are a great way to start your wellness journey. You will sit in meditation and have an ancient water blessing while the temple priest chants mantras over you – creating peace within yourself. Book one of the healing rituals that involve a learned healer using intuitive energy healing to rebalance the body and mind or balance the body’s chakras.

The holistic approach at Fivelements continues with plant-based cuisine and meditation. The guests are also encouraged to partake in yoga classes or enjoy a day by the Ayung River for much-needed relaxation time away from busy schedules. The onsite bathhouses and healing water pools at this destination will make you feel like a new person as they release all the tension from your body, allowing for a fantastic experience.

 

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Chiva-Som Hua Hin – Thailand

The 3 to 5 nights Nature’s Embrace Retreat at Chiva-Som Resort is a chance at detoxifying and destressing within the embrace of nature. Through personal consultations, you can find the perfect concoction of wellness that works for you in restoring mental and physical balance.

Access the water therapy suites to relax and include simple treatments such as oriental scalp massages to more energetic fitness activities to complement your destressing process. In addition, a personalized meal program focussed on natural ingredients, probiotics, and fibre helps complete this balancing act.

Read More: RAKxa, Bangkok’s Unique Urban Wellness Resort For A Green Escape

The Senior Wellness retreat focuses on anti-ageing through the lens of diet, exercise and lifestyle choices that help preserve health and vitality. Gentle physical activities and biofeedback are at the heart of this retreat in Thailand.

 

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Wellness Retreats in Europe

Schloss Elmau – Krün, Germany

Schloss Elmau is a luxurious wellness retreat in the Upper Bavarian Alps in Germany. Schloss Elmau offers excellent luxury spa breaks for solo travellers, couple’s getaway, families with kids or for a group of friends looking to recharge.

In addition to having a good selection of programs, you can personalize your retreat after consultation with the hotel’s Medical Spa director. The soothing combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Yoga will help you rediscover your footing in life. Traditional Chinese Medicine is at the heart of the hotel’s Turtle Spa Concept. Think of Traditional Chinese Medicine as the performance booster when combined with a Five Element Nutritional analysis and Personal Qi Gong for a balanced body and mind.

Schloss Elmau is a haven for wellness enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to unwind and relax or exercise in pristine nature with family members, there are plenty of spas to choose from that offer something unique – all year round. This retreat offers six separate pools heated by steamy hot water year-round: one outdoor lap pool where folks can cool off after exercising; another located inside as well, which features an Oriental Hamam soaping oneself silly or a Japanese Onsen while surrounded by stunning views of the German Alps.

 

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Valsana Hotel Arosa: Eco Spa and Ski Resort – Arosa, Switzerland

Based in the mountains of Graubünden, the Valsana Hotel Arosa is a true Swiss winter wonderland. With a view of the mountains, you can enjoy a delightfully unique wellness experience at this winter escape.

Health improves with great aromas as you experience wellness enhanced with essential oils during aromatherapy sessions. Adventure is not far away either, with many experiences involving Moving Mountains training, pilates, snow show hiking and TRX Ski Workouts. Through this training, you can move about mountains and experience the richness of pure alpine air by working functional fitness and Yoga.

Read More: Switzerland’s Ultimate Wellness Getaways

Head out to the great outdoors for skiing at sunrise, indulge in Avalanche Rescue Training, Ice bathing, mountain ‘snurfing’, and Telemark Skiing. But, of course, no trip to Switzerland is complete without breaking out the cheese fondue set and dipping your favourite bread into gooey goodness. The opportunities, just like the snow, are endless.

 

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Monchique Resort & Thermal Spa – Algarve, Portugal

Located in the mountains, the Monchique Resort and Thermal Spa is the perfect spot to recuperate and revitalize. Spending time outdoors and with nature is a great way to restore balance within the body. Far away from the city, you can promote positive emotions in your body through experiences of tranquillity in nature.

This is not your average wellness retreat. You’ll be surrounded by unspoiled forested mountains and enjoy the pretty town of Caldas de Monchique, known for its thermal waters nearby. The resort is now part of a large international company that owns Vila Monte and Praia Verde. The two activities in the morning are yoga sessions followed by trail running, while at lunchtime, there are healthy cooking classes on offer with walking tours to the town centre.

You can enjoy spa treatments such as thermal circuits drawing from Monchique’s natural surroundings or sensorial showers, which include salt walls sauna facilities along with other indoor poolside activities – all this whilst being surrounded by nature every moment.

The ‘Monchique Us’ spa day for you and your partner or the ‘All about me’ spa day will boost energy and revitalize. In addition, sports in the great outdoors are an excellent stress booster and focus enhancer – cycle or play golf, enjoy an afternoon at the Santa Clara Dam, and surf, paddle and horse ride, all at the Monchique resort.

 

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Vilalara Thalassa Resort – Porches, Portugal

With access to a beach and a place dedicated to your optimal wellbeing, a holiday becomes the healthiest thing for your body at the Vilalara Thalassa Resort in Portugal. You’ll be situated between 11 hectares of seaside garden with access to one of the world’s best Thalassotherapy centres.

Thalassotherapy refers to the use of seawater in cosmetic and health treatment. It is very helpful in getting in shape, quitting smoking, destressing and treating a bad back, all through specialized therapies. Thalassotherapy for the back will help you mitigate pain, restore your muscles to their natural, relaxed states and help with joint mobility.

For the anti-smoking program, adding acupuncture and homoeopathy will promote a nicotine detox. Naturally, water and ocean activities are a must with the ocean so close by. You can wash away your stress with standup paddling, kayaking, and snorkelling. You can even watch birds in their natural habitat and learn more about the art of being free.

 

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Wellness Retreats in North America

Palamaia, The House of Aia – Quintana Roo, Mexico

Palamaia is a spectacular tropical paradise surrounded by freshwater cenotes located between the jungle and the Caribbean Sea in the Yucatan Peninsula. For a relaxing holiday in the sun with spiritual and ancient practices to promote overall wellbeing, their spa in the jungle will be the centre of your healing journey.

The resort offers a wide variety of retreats and healing experiences to choose from. The traditional dances and Chi Kung will help you explore your subconscious to understand your body better. You can destress and regenerate with gong baths, the Cacao Ceremony Mayan Cleansing Rituals and the Ritual of Transmutation. This retreat is your rite of passage to a healthier and fuller life.

 

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Chablé Yucatán – Chocholá, Yucatán, Meixco

The Chablé Yucatán is a royal Mayan retreat in Chocholá, Yucatán, right in the lap of luxury and nature. The happiness program at the hotel will help customize your wellness experience and spend a blissful vacation. Upon arriving, all you have to do is complete the “Bliss List” – a simple list of things that bring you joy in life – it is the key to your personalized itinerary.

Focus on inviting positive energy into your life and help your body feel better inside at a cenote. In the heart of the jungle, peace and restoration come through Mayan ceremonial rituals. Wellness Golf is for you if the preference is for wellness that comes from a more athletic route. Then, you can actively pursue your happiness and experience true bliss, all while making your body stronger.

 

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Four Seasons Sensei Lana’i – Hawaii

The Sensei Lanai’ is an adults-only wellness enclave located within the pine-covered mountains of the Hawaiian island of Lanai’. Curate your journey with wellness consultations, treatments and programs to find what you need the most and works the best for you, all of this amidst the spirit of old Hawai’i, surrounded by local boutiques, restaurants and art galleries.

If you crave adventure, well, all the peace and tranquillity at the resort is matched by their offerings of adventure. Try your hand at scuba diving, horseback riding, golfing and sailing. Aquatic bodywork and the Sensei Optimal Well-being program ensure that Hawai’i, wellbeing, sports and peace are all yours to enjoy as you please.

 

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Castle Hot Springs – Arizona, USA

Castle Hot Springs is an oasis in the Arizona desert, perfect for an epic adventure and a hot springs experience. These deep rock hot springs have been popular from native Americans to frontier ranchers. Natural Hot Springs, Yoga, meditation and a wide range of massages await you at this desert hideaway. A steaming soak in the natural Hot Springs with mineral-rich water will soothe the body and soul.

Relax your muscles, rejuvenate your spirit and channel energy all in one soak by adding the Cold Stone Face Massage. For something more robust, the Sonoran Desert Transformation is recommended. A brisk dry brushing to stimulate blood flow and gently exfoliate, a purifying clay wrap along with a face & scalp massage and intense moisturizing treatment and a reflexology foot massage boosts circulation and overall wellbeing.

If you prefer the great outdoors, farm tours and desert e-bike tours will help you find yourself in the lap of nature.

 

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Blackberry Mountain – Tennessee, USA

Located in the heart of nature in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Blackberry Mountain is a wellness adventure retreat that needs to be on your travel radar. Every experience here includes wellness, outdoor adventure and cuisine are connected through nature and art.

At this retreat in the mountains, it is all about enjoying the simple pleasures in life in a refined manner leading to fulfilling experiences. Every moment here is an invitation for personal development. Outdoor activities here include hiking, biking, fly fishing, kayaking, canoeing, off-roading in a 4×4 and horseback riding. The stays are also memorable due to the unique accommodations – from stone cottages, stylish mountain homes, watchman cabins, and treehouses.

Curated wellness experiences include Forage, where you begin with an 80-minute hike followed by a 50-minute Herbal Remedy Session and an 80-minute Herbal Poultice Massage. This personalized all-day experience offers a comprehensive plan for relaxing and healing. This will help you boost your overall holistic health and find your creative presence.

 

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The Miraval Berkshires Resort and Spa – Lenox, Massachusetts

The Miraval Berkshires Resort and Spa is your destination for healing the whole self and engaging in the present moment -a simple task that we take a lifetime to master. You can peacefully detach yourself from the world in this digital device-free area. No phone calls, no work emails, or social media to give you FOMO. Just you, and the woodlands, together on a journey to truly connect with yourself.

You can choose from personal retreats that include Pilates and Fitness, Water and winter activities, golf to something extraordinary such as Beekeeping experiences and creative expression. For expecting parents looking to destress the body and gain strength before welcoming your baby, the specifically curated programs for pregnant women will help you settle better into your body as it undergoes the process of creating life.

 

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Placencia Naia Resort – Placencia, Belize

Located in a private reserve on the Placencia Peninsula, the Placencia Naia resort is spread across 19-acres of gorgeous beachfront. The Naia Spa is a hidden sanctuary within this Caribbean paradise. So naturally, a space like that calls for the best experience for healing and rejuvenation.

The idea of wellness can be a difficult concept to define. For some, it might involve sprawling out on the beach with their favourite book and brunch selection from room service while they lounge in between dips into ocean water- but not everyone has time for this. So if you’re looking for more immersional experiences that provide isolation or privacy with minimally invasive travel plans, Naia is ready instead. Each private house at the resort sits by itself along pristine coastlines, so there’s plenty of space dedicated just towards your needs: whether seeking tranquillity alone.

Read More: Wellness, Cuisine & Glamping In Costa Rica

With the pandemic placing the onus of everybody’s physical and emotional wellbeing on the mother’s shoulders, a wellness break that helps them destress and regroup is the call of the day. The “Zoom Mom Detox Package” involves a lagoon kayaking tour and daily spa experiences to help prevent burnout. Deep stretching, Primival Salt Stone Massages and Mystic lights help keep the muscles flexible and work out those stress knots.

 

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Read More: Epic Views & Thrills At Family Friendly Schilthorn, Switzerland
Read More: Travel With Your Family To Zurich And Enjoy The Vacation Of A Lifetime!
Read More: Canton Of Vaud – A Family Destination For Adventure Sports, Culture & Relaxation
Read More: Experience The Thrill Of A Lifetime At The Jungfrau Region  ◼

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© This article was first published online in Jan 2022 – World Travel Magazine.

The post 18 Retreats Perfect for Your Wellness Journey in 2023 first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”We handpick the best for some serious world-class skiing and exceptional pampering”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]The season is off to an early start in many of the ski resorts around the world, and in preparation of your very own ski holiday, this bespoke collection features several of the best locations and hotels for world-class skiing, and first-class services. From grand hotels to boutique chalets, this bespoke collection of accommodations provides guests with exclusive services, customised experiences and luxurious amenities to meet the demands of the most discerning traveller. These dream destinations will provide you with memories to last a lifetime, and the hotels will make sure that you need for nothing while under their roofs. This is a great season to be adventurous and explore one of these picturesque ski villages for yourself.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Fairmont Chateau Whistler in British Columbia Canada

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Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Canada

The ultimate ski-in and ski-out hotel experience in Whistler is waiting for you at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler – a hotel that is so grand that it is often recognised as the heart and soul of this Canadian ski town. Showcasing classic elegance with modern touches, every element of this hotel is dedicated to an elevated guest experience.…Subscribe to the magazine to read the full article[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Deer Valley’s Stein Eriksen Lodge

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Stein Eriksen Lodge, Deer Valley, Utah, USA

The Stein Eriksen Lodge has won numerous awards for a reason – the location, accommodations and all-around amenities and services are worthy of these notable distinctions. Named after Norwegian Olympic Gold Medal skier Stein Eriksen, the lodge is beautifully nestled mid-mountain at the celebrated Deer Valley Resort in Park City, ….Subscribe to the magazine to read the full article[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Hôtel Mont-Blanc, a modern and historic landmark

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Hotel Mont-Blanc, Chamonix, France

This legendary hotel at the foot of Mont-Blanc is everything you expect from a hotel with more than 100 years of making history and as one of the true symbols of the Valley. The hotel has been completely renovated to now include modern touches and an entirely new level of high-mountain exclusivity; while still maintaining that Hôtel Mont-….Subscribe to the magazine to read the full article[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Cheval Blanc Courchevel

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Cheval Blanc, Courchevel, France

When only the absolute best will do, Cheval Blanc provides a luxury ski vacation beyond compare – complete with all the experiences that will satisfy everyone in your group. This sleek chalet has direct access to the slopes of Trois Vallées, which happens to have the recognition of being the world’s largest ski resort. Today, it is all about the unique…Subscribe to the magazine to read the full article[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

An elegant stay at Cristallo, Cortina D’Amprezzo

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Cristallo, Cortina  d’Ampezzo, Italy

For the travellers who take comfort in staying with an international hotel brand, Cristallo is part of the Luxury Collection by Marriott, and far from being a standard hotel. The individualised amenities and style of this property are exactly what you expect from a beautiful Italian hotel tucked into this valley with surrounding views of the Alps.….Subscribe to the magazine to read the full article[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Spectacular Germany surrounding Schloss Elmau

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SchlossElmau, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

The skiing at Garmisch-Partenkirchen is outstanding, but to truly appreciate this beautiful region of Germany, staying at SchlossElmau is perfection. A wellness getaway for the mind, body and soul, the services and amenities here include several spas for adults and families; a host of restaurants and lounges; and cultural opportunities in the concert hall.….Subscribe to the magazine to read the full article[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Penthouse stays at Ki Niseko

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Ki Niseko – The Penthouse, Japan

Ki Niseko has managed to execute a hotel experience in Niseko that is not only sophisticated, but also contains that alpine charm perfect for an unforgettable ski holiday. Nestled at the base of Grand Hirafu Resort, the boutique ski-in ski-out hotel is ideally situated for the ultimate in convenience, and the penthouse is simply dazzling.….Subscribe to the magazine to read the full article[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

The Ritz-Carlton Club Vail in Colorado

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The Ritz-Carlton Club Vail, Colorado, USA

As the largest ski resort in the United States, skiers of all levels flock to Vail each year. However, the villages of Vail and Lionshead are what make this destination so special – a true feeling of vacationing in a charming Alpine village, complete with great local restaurants and international boutiques. The Ritz-Carlton Club Vail features 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom….Subscribe to the magazine to read the full article[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Bespoke stays at Chalet N

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Chalet N, Lech Zurs am Arlberg, Austria

When you are fortunate enough to hit the slopes in Arlberg – the birthplace of alpine skiing – an equally impressive place to call ‘home’ while in Austria is a necessity. Look no further than the Chalet N, a boutique travel experience where nothing is overlooked, and the bespoke amenities and services make for a heavenly Austrian ski holiday.….Subscribe to the magazine to read the full article[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Pool with a view at Kulm Hotel

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Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, Switzerland

Switzerland is always a popular winter getaway, and St. Moritz has everything necessary for that quintessential Swiss ski holiday. St. Moritz’s local mountain Corviglia along with the neighbouring ski areas of Corvatsch, Diavolezza and Zuoz promise a first-class skiing experience. Situated in the heart of the village, guests of the Kulm Hotel …Subscribe to the magazine to read the full article ◼[/vc_column_text][vc_basic_grid post_type=”ids” element_width=”12″ initial_loading_animation=”none” grid_id=”vc_gid:1545073406587-cc12f3d2-7af9-7″ include=”16442″][vc_column_text]

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© This article was first published in Dec-Jan 2019 edition of World Travel Magazine.

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The post Best ski destinations for the season first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”India’s colourful cities”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]
Have you ever dreamed of wandering around an indigo metropolis, drenched in soft pink skies as soon as the sun calls it a day? Some call Jodhpur ‘an exploration to the senses’, others would say it’s an intriguing maze of azure alleyways. One thing is for sure: this humming city in the Indian state Rajasthan is full of colours, exciting architecture and ancient traditions.

Alleyways and architecture

In Jodhpur’s lanes, rickshaw drivers and bikes rush to their next destination, accompanied by flocks of pigeons. Tiny courtyards breathe a more peaceful air, a blue serenity that’s rarely found on the main streets of Jodhpur. Here’s where chai vendors sell their milky delights and shoe polishers carefully brush leathery footgear. Certain houses in Jodhpur’s used to be decorated with indigo paste because priests of the Brahmin caste lived there. These days many more buildings are covered in blue, providing cooler air while dispersing the afternoon glow that makes every living creature simmer away in ‘Sun City’.
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Traditional blue windows and wall in Blue City Jodhpur

Interior of Mehrangarh Fort by Don Mammoser

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During a private tour through Jodhpur, one gets to see the lively pathways and serene yards, but also spectacular pieces of architecture. One specific sight that’s hard to miss is the majestically Mehrangarh Fort. Overlooking the entire blue oasis at its feet, this 17th-century stronghold is the icon of this ancient city. Brave souls can choose to see the fortress and its surrounding from above. An adrenaline pumping network of zip lines connects several towers and walls of the ancient fortification, providing a birds-eye view of Jodhpur.
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Old man smoking water pipe by Mark52

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Flying through the air or with both feet on the ground; the guide will provide all information concerning the halls, staircases and rooms and their former inhabitants. In this jewel in Jodhpur’s crown, you’ll follow in the footsteps of mighty rulers and medieval princesses. Seven of the maharajas built their own entrance gate, giving the visitor a choice of where to enter the magnificent fortress. Black kites circulating high in the sky have replaced the traditional royal guards, keeping an eye on Mehrangarh Fort.

Celebrate the Makar Sankranti festival

During Makar Sankranti, the amount of kites in the blazing atmosphere is drastically multiplied. But rather than the birds of prey, this festival revolves around plastic or paper playthings on an invisible string for three days in a row. Makar Sankranti is celebrated every year starting on January 14 and is one of India’s few festivals dedicated to Surya, the god of the sun. Showing gratitude for the harvest in the year that’s behind, the locals send kites and lampions towards the sun. In Jodhpur, the festivities are also held at the Polo Ground.
Scenes of the silhouette of Mehrangarh Fort and the illuminated lampions trying to chase the setting sun will be printed in the visitors’ memories.

Explore the Mandore Gardens

Between the lanes of Jodhpur and the deserted ghost town Mandore lies only ten miles, but the surreal difference in experience seems to tell a time travelling story. Mandore housed the thrones of many kings, but after the construction of an elevated fortress further south, the city lost its once noble purpose. Jodhpur became the most important metropolis in the region, and the citizens of Mandore left their previously beloved capital leaving nothing but silent witnesses. Lovers of royal Indian architecture will bask in the ruins of the Mandore Gardens, the evidence of a glorious king’s residence.
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Umaid Bhawan Palace is today a large luxury hotel by Stefano Barzellotti

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Excursions around Jodhpur

The pattern of rolling sand dunes around Osian ranges beyond anyone’s perception. A sandy ocean called the Thar Desert covers a large part of Rajasthan, including this old town 45 miles north of Jodhpur. It is believed that the people of Osian got converted to Jainism, given the sculptures and shrines enclosed in the city walls. Exploring the stairs, arches and delicate shrines of this sacred well in the desert awakens the fantasy of every traveller without any effort. The imagination might wander off to past times when the kingdom of Marwar reigned in this part of Rajasthan. One of the most exciting ways to explore the vast emptiness of the Thar Desert around town is on the back of a camel. Go for a ride just before sunset, when the sand dunes blush in the lowering sun. In case the appetite increases on arrival, a traditional Marwari style dinner will be served while the last daylight proceeds to the other side of the globe. Private tours that include a traditional meal can be arranged in Jodhpur as well.

Stay overnight in Jodhpur

The Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel used to be the residency of the former Jodhpur royal family. The 4,850 square feet Maharani Suite makes the guest feel like a monarch indeed. A pink bathtub made from Italian marble, a private yoga room and 24-hour in-room dining are just a few of the superior amenities.

Getting to Jodhpur

Jodhpur’s domestic airport is located a mere 5 kilometres from the city centre. The Jodhpur Airport (JDH) is well-connected to other major cities in India, including Delhi and Mumbai, and you’re likely to find multiple flights from Air India and Jet Airways arriving daily.
For the more scenic route, head to Jodhpur by a luxury train. The historic Palace on Wheels, an ultra-luxurious train service that travels through India, offers routes that depart from New Delhi and makes a stop at Jodhpur. Regular express trains also frequently depart train terminals in New Delhi and Mumbai. ◼
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© This article was first published in Dec-Jan 2019 edition of World Travel Magazine.
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The post Discover Jodhpur, India’s Stunning Blue City first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”Tulum, Mexico”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]In Tulum, Mexico, structures made from bejuco vines, plants local to the area, rise from the jungle. A strip of villas skirting treetops look out at turquoise sea. Frothy waves lap white sand below. This is eco-resort Azulik.

Its story starts 20 years ago with Argentinean-born artist Jorge Eduardo Neira Sterkel. While on a sailing trip through the Caribbean, he discovered the town of Tulum and decided to stay. He was a painter and, through the sales of his paintings, was able to purchase land. Without any formal architectural training, he began construction on Azulik.

“I never plan a thing. I never make floor plans,” he says. “A plan does not work if you want to respect nature.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Domo para ceremonias Maya Spa

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Structures at Azulik are built with the same materials Mayans have used for centuries, bejuco and wood, all collected from the area. The first few villas were built in the same ways too – oval-shaped and with thatched roofs.

“The funny thing of the process is that we never know what we will do. Even if I have a previous idea, nature imposes herself. If it can’t be done in a known way, then the answer is to play, to improvise.”

Sterkel works with a team of 200-or-so modern Mayans and describes them as playful and mischievous. ‘It must be something never seen before,’ I tell them, and they laugh as kids planning a trick. When the idea appears, they work to bring new answers.”

Today, trees spring up from the middle of wood walkways. In the villas, sunlight filters through slivers between vine ceilings. There are no phone lines so room service orders are scribbled onto scraps of paper, which are then placed in wooden balls and dropped down a shoot leading to the kitchen.

Sterkel’s plan – or rather, lack thereof – has worked. Nature has not only been respected, but it’s being benefited from too. The water used throughout the resort comes from cenotes, sinkholes the area is known for, and is rich in minerals. No electricity means calming candlelight and no distractions.

For guests at Azulik, a restored connection with the environment, with others and with themselves is inevitable – exactly as Sterkel intended. “That is the purpose of Azulik: to reconnect individuals and tribes,” he says.

From eight villas in 2003, Azulik now has 48. The Jungle, Mayan and Aztec Villas nestle into greenery while the Sea and Sky villas sit seafront. Though the resort is luxurious, it still retains Tulum’s free-spirited ethos with a clothing-optional private beach and mosaic bathtubs replacing showers.

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“The idea behind this is for you to take your time, soak in the tub with bath salts and relax. The shower is an invention of rushed men,” reads its website.

A spa, hair salon, clothing store, apothecary and three restaurants – Kin Toh, Tseen Ja, and Cenote – have also since sprouted up around the property. An eyewear shop is set to open later this year.

It’s the resort’s contemporary art gallery IK Lab however that has garnered the most attention. Opened on April 20th this year, it’s brought Azulik into the architecture world’s spotlight. And while it may have been the gallery’s director Santiago Rumney Guggenheim, the great-grandson of famed art collector Peggy Guggenheim, who gave media outlets their headlines, it was the actual space that had people captivated.

The collaboration came about organically. Guggenheim had recently moved to Tulum and was walking around town when he saw a property with a big round door from the road. Intrigued, he asked to meet its owner. The door was one of Azulik’s and the result of their meeting was IK Lab.

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Casa de la medicina ancestral (Apoteca)

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“End of April, in the heart of one of the most exclusive locations in South America, an unprecedented art gallery project will be launched,” Guggenheim announced on his Facebook page at the time.

In the Mayan language, ‘ik’ means wind – a fitting name for the gallery’s undulating floors, walls and ceilings. Guests enter through a 4m-high round glass door and, once inside the cavernous space, are requested to remove their shoes. Sunlight spills in through round windows, warming the wood floor. In other parts, the floor is cold and concrete.

“The space is the perfect conversation between nature and human-made, the smooth surface of the concrete alternated with the curves of the raw bejuco,” says Gallery Manager Valentina Bizzotto. “It reminds me also a bit of Antoni Gaudi.”

The gallery is made from wood and fiberglass and has a live tree incorporated into its structure. Everything is handmade and, as a result, susceptible to nature’s elements – like rain.

“Of course we might have some water coming in from the door. Or sometimes the wood expands with the humidity and cracks the fiberglass so we might have a bit of leaking,” says Bizzotto.

“But then the day after, we fix the fiberglass and it’s not a big deal. But it’s very beautiful because the rain here lasts usually one hour and is very strong. You feel so safe in the gallery and the noise is amazing.”

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Sea Villas on the first floor and Sky Villas on the second floor sit ocean-front

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The gallery’s inaugural exhibition Alignments features 20 works by international artists Artur Lescher, Margo Trushina and Tatiana Trouvé that explore the human journey through physical and metaphysical realms. The artworks seem to belong to the space. So much so that walking through the gallery, it’s difficult to discern where the gallery ends and Alignments begins.

It’s something Tulum as a whole does well – blending art with its surroundings. Less than two decades ago, the town, located 90 minutes south of Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula, was only a small hippie community. The hashtagging of its creative, colourful restaurants, environment-embracing hotels and jaw-dropping cenotes has helped to grow it to what it is today.

Its downtown Pueblo area, filled with taco joints, souvenir stalls and dive shops, sits inland. Cenotes dot its side streets. A 15-minute drive to the coast takes you to the town’s ritzier resort zone where you’ll find Azulik. Sprawling, seaside hotels sit on one side of the winding road leading through the jungle. Restaurants and shops, seemingly carved into the jungle, are on the other.

With the stream of tourists multiplying every year, the town is expanding rapidly as it tries to keep up. It’s a similar situation within Azulik. On his 126-hectare slice of jungle, Sterkel says he has plans to add a museum, a recording studio, artist residences, a spa hotel and a wellness hotel.

It certainly seems as if for Sterkel, the sky is the limit. It’s ironic then that his only obstacle is buried deep into the ground. “The one and only rule is not to cut any trees,” he says. ◼

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© This article was first published in Aug-Sept 2018 edition of World Travel Magazine.

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The post A Treetop Night In Tulum first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”Fall barefoot crazy in love”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]A seaplane arrival over turquoise waters of the Exuma Island chain begins your journey to this 72-acre private island paradise. Bury your toes in the Caribbean’s powder-white sand and feel rejuvenated. It’s easy to fall crazy in love here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Island is home to Meridian House a fantastic, whimsical oasis

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]The island is home to Meridian House a fantastic, whimsical oasis with an upscale and tranquil environment. Featuring a 214sqm master suite, you will also enjoy a 12-seat movie theatre, and a grand conservatory featuring a Steinway piano with panoramic views of the sea.

Accommodating up to 28 guests, you’ll enjoy the island’s vast amenities like floodlit tennis, a nine-hole par three golf course, yoga and a fabulous selection of water sports with dockage for a few superyachts.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Amenities include dramatic infinity pools and a 12-seat movie theatre

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Home to the sailing yacht Tenacious, a Ted-Hood designed 34m shallow-draft sloop ideal for shallow Caribbean cruising, charter her as part of an island-hopping excursion or for longer voyages.

Amenities include whatever your heart desires––whether food and wine, or a range of motorboats and daysailers for local waters. After a day on the sea, enjoy exchanging stories at seaside fire pits, or hold a black-tie dinner, your choice. overyondercay.com ◼[/vc_column_text][vc_basic_grid post_type=”ids” element_width=”12″ initial_loading_animation=”none” grid_id=”vc_gid:1541070853413-b7a9d09c-9137-10″ include=”7861″][vc_column_text]

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© This article was first published in Oct-Nov 2018 edition of World Travel Magazine.

If you would like to comment on this story or anything else you have seen on World Travel Magazine, head over to our Facebook page or message us on Twitter.

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The post Island whimsy in the Caribbean first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”Denali’s call to the wild”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Leave the day-trips, shore excursions and leaving-you-wanting-more fly-overs behind, there’s a new way to explore Alaska’s famous Denali National Park. Sitting at 6,000 feet on a rocky granite cliff, called a nunatak, the hexagonally shaped, eco-conscious Sheldon Chalet sits high above the 35-square mile snowy Don Sheldon Amphitheater, offering incredible views of Denali’s peak, the tallest mountain in North America, only ten miles away.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

The setting of the Sheldon Chalet by Jeff Schultz

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Get your winter wonderland on inside the five-bedroom luxurious chalet with off-the-chart adventurous amenities including a concierge, chef and two guides. Cuisine features “Alaskan gourmet” highlighting the bounty of the land with seafood, game and foraged items leading the pack.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

No shortage of food here by Jeff Schultz

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Alaskan artisans crafted the weather-proofed, seismically secure chalet with windows as large as the state of Alaska and an equally large round table out of local birch trees. sheldonchalet.com ◼[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Guest room – an atmosphere of comfort by Jeff Schultz

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The post Northern Lights and Alaskan nights first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”Sensual tranquillity in Bali”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Jungle luxury at its finest, you have discovered the most romantic bedroom in Indonesia. Fantastic bamboo architecture and dramatic construction will sweep you off of your feet and into a cocoon of magic. The Moon House features an open-air shower and copper bathtub, your own butler and private plunge pool. Natural tiered swimming pools with a view of the Ayung River enchant here as do the gardens.

Your stay is an adventure in itself. Enjoy the sustainable kolam, or swimming pond, made out of all natural materials leaving the usual concrete and chemicals of resort pools behind. Find tranquillity in the wonderful harm-free environment with a turn on the rope swing, rest in the deck chairs as you take in the beautiful view, or take a refreshing swim in the pool and admire the natural mountain stone hardscape as you float along with a few fish.

Indulge your inner child by playing the musical strings of the minang harp, an installation by visiting sound architect Rudiger Schodel. Enjoy restoring your own inner harmony in the magical world of sound therapy and vibration therapy. Cultural immersion includes participation in Balinese blessings and ceremonies, and a bamboo tour where you can learn how to make an architectural model taught at a local bamboo factory. bambuindah.com ◼[/vc_column_text][vc_basic_grid post_type=”ids” element_width=”12″ initial_loading_animation=”none” grid_id=”vc_gid:1540514320714-988540fa-e771-0″ include=”16012″][vc_column_text]

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The post Moon House, bamboo, music and romance first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

As teenagers, Eddie and Jack worked together in an Edinburgh bar where they decided to build a boat and hire a local fisher-pirate captain to explore the islands around the Philippines. After their money ran out, they invited tourists to join them onboard for a fee, arranging for their accommodations with islanders. The rest is history.

Over a glass of jungle juice––the Tao signature cocktail a soothing blend of rum, pineapple juice, and water––you meet your expedition leader and a few dozen travelling companions. The next five days will be epic in ways you can’t imagine. Onboard you receive a little more information about the next five days. The handout says it all––

“We call it an expedition because we are exploring the islands together….the experience is all there for you but it cannot be listed on a menu, you have to explore it yourself.” There is no plan. Only the promise that exploration can take many forms. The exploration of the outside world is what lured you here to Camp Ngey! Ngey!, but you hadn’t expected waking up every morning in an open-air bamboo ‘Tuka’ hut. After an ocean breeze coaxes you out of bed, you dive into crystal clear waters in the early morning. This exploration puts a new twist on the typical fun and sun package.

Camp Ngey! Ngey!

Family-style meals feature Tao Chefs to cook up fresh fish caught by Islanders and produce from the Tao organic farm. Adventure comes easy here. Exploring the island’s jungle trails as you skirt wild beaches and windswept cliffs, brings a discovery of hidden caves. Enjoy snorkelling around the island’s preserved reefs rich with a variety of sea life and shipwrecks too on an escape to this Neverland of wonder and freedom. taophilippines.com ◼

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© This article was first published in Oct-Nov 2018 edition of World Travel Magazine.

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The post Welcome To Neverland, An Off-The-Grid Luxury Escape first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”The slow food that defines the region”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Walking through the tundra lands of Swedish Lapland, the region’s respect and reverence for nature is evident. Swedes abide by the tenet of “Freedom to Roam” — the freedom for all citizens to explore nature, to roam free in the country’s woods, forests and tundra — a law that, in turn, has developed the regional culture. And, as in any outdoors-oriented region, the local cuisine has evolved to support these pursuits.

The diet of the indigenous, nomadic reindeer herders of the region, known as the Sami, is dictated by the place itself. Local cuisine relies heavily on the tundra and the creatures upon it; reindeer, game birds and local fish such as trout, grayling and whitefish are featured heavily in the cuisine, served dried, fresh and every way imaginable.

Bierggojubttsa, a traditional soup with meat (often reindeer), potatoes, carrots and other root vegetables, is an example of a traditional, hearty meal that can readily be prepared on a rural farm but also is served in trendy restaurants in northern towns such as Kiruna. Outdoor adventurers who visit the fishing camp of Tjuonajokk, accessible only via a helicopter ride or long hike from Kiruna, will find Chef Tim in the kitchen, creating excellent, restaurant-quality meals using basic ingredients sourced locally and from the surrounding tundra.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Gáhkku, the Sámi flatbread, is usually cooked over an open fire and served alongside most meals, as is the ubiquitous coffee, served in a guksi, the traditional Nordic drinking cup. While staying at the Sami eco-lodge of Guenja, visitors can experience the hospitality of Mikael and AnkiVinka, who craft sustainable, hearty meals as the Sami have for generations — over a fire in a simple log cabin.

Sustainable, fresh and healthy, the food of the Sami is quite simple yet showcases the fresh ingredients that are often hand-harvested from the sweeping, marshy tundra and the cold, wild rivers that run through it. The meals pay homage to the region’s rich Sami history while also celebrating a continual love affair with the outdoors and the cuisine it provides on a seemingly harsh landscape.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Meals are served inside the main cabin at Guenja

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]This is “slow food” at its most elegant — unique flavours best enjoyed slowly, to be relished, in the very environment from which they came. Whether on the tundra enjoying a glass of wine and reindeer stew at the fine Mat &Dryk at Hotel SPiS in Kiruna, the food alone is reason enough to travel to the Arctic Circle and live as the Swedes do. Jess McGlothlin

Tjuonajokk  fishyourdream.com/en/locations/tjuonajokk

Guenja swedishlapland.com/place-story/geunja-sami-ecolodge/  ◼[/vc_column_text][vc_basic_grid post_type=”ids” element_width=”12″ initial_loading_animation=”none” grid_id=”vc_gid:1539883319041-616472c8-701d-6″ include=”13437″][vc_column_text]

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A green sea turtle surfaces near your kayak as you  paddle through an electric Kool-Aid blue lagoon surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Your destination? A pristine palm tree shaded beach without another soul in sight. This is just another day in Palawan, an archipelago of 1,780 islands south-west of Manila in the Philippines.

guests sleep in their own private luxury “Nest” perched in the canopy

Yet, this scene has become increasingly rare around the world. Things like empty beaches, biodiversity, cultural authenticity and clean oceans are becoming scarce. The price of standing in the world tourism spotlight is high.

low impact activities like kayaking and paddleboarding are the preferred way to see the Big and Small Lagoons at the El Nido Resorts

Case in point: Boracay. Waste management and environmental concerns so plague the tropical hotspot that on April 26, 2018, President Duterte officially closed Boracay to all visitors for six months.

Palawan is a diver’s dream with hundreds of unique species found only in its water

Boracay is an extremely popular destination for domestic and international travellers. According to the Boracay tourism office, the island made a record US$1 billion dollars as it played host to over 2 million visitors from all parts of the globe.

one of the greenest ways to see Palawan is aboard a sailboat

With Boracay off limits, it’s time to look for a new favourite island destination while simultaneously figuring out a way to preserve the slices of paradise we so love.

your stay at the Birdhouse starts with a 187 stair climb, but don’t worry, the view is worth every step

El Nido: The Green Alternative to Boracay

Enter El Nido. Armed with its spectacular natural beauty and forward-thinking approach to sustainable tourism, this charming little town is the perfect launch pad to see Palawan. Get acclimated while staying in a luxury bell tent at the Bird House El Nido. The Bird House is a “glamping” eco-resort that is perched in the jungle canopy 187 stairs above Marmegmeg Beach.

sweet Filippino sausage, fresh vegetables, and eggs raised on site compliment the view at breakfast at the Nesting Table

The owners of the Bird House said that they were quick to recognise the growing need for businesses built around an environmental ethos in El Nido and the greater Philippines. The Bird House is now leading the green tourism initiative in the area with composting toilets, a greywater system, a garden-to-table restaurant and an entire operating system based upon the ideals of permaculture.

a tiny ziplining tourist whizzes through the view from one of the “Nests” at the Bird House

Beyond being entirely self-sufficient, the Bird House lures flocks of travellers to its canopy-top perch because of its luxe bohemian interiors, comfortable beds and unique outlook. Nowhere else in El Nido will you find a 180-degree birds-eye view of the exquisite Bacuit Bay. Down the stairs, adventure beckons. Options include kayaking to Papaya Beach, sunbathing at Marmegmeg Beach or trying the 750-meter zipline that sends tourists hollering from the top of Marmegmeg Beach to a neighbouring island.

From the beach below the Birdhouse you can paddle to several secluded beaches

A Healthy Dose of Vitamin Sea: Palawan by Sailboat

The Bird House may seem like the sky’s limit, but the reason most people visit Palawan is the islands. Out amongst the atolls, your toughest daily decision may be whether to explore what’s above the surface or what’s below. Sheer limestone cliffs that flank lagoons of crystal clear, bright blue salt water are a photographer’s delight. Yet, for divers, what lies beneath is more enticing. Palawan is world-renowned for scuba and free diving because it is home to hundreds of unique species of coral and fish.

Not far from El Nido, the ultimate island shack sits waiting for its keepers

One of the best ways to see more of the islands, skip the crowds and reduce your carbon footprint is to rent a skippered private sailboat. Several outfitters run trips throughout the year with best sailing months being January through March.

The Maremegmeg Beach Bar is a great place for a bite to eat, people watching and a sundowner

Once you’ve met your boat and captain, you motor out of Corong Corong harbour, put up the sails and leave the rest to the wind. You’ll soon find that the slow pace of travel is not only relaxing but the best way to see the seemingly endless sugar-white beaches, jungle-covered deserted islands and deep blue fantasy lagoons of the area.

Live out your castaway fantasy somewhere in Palawan

El Nido Resorts: Where Luxury Meets Sustainability

Of course, not everyone has found their sea legs. If you’re a landlubber looking for a luxurious but remote alternative to sailing, try one of the El Nido Resort’s four island outposts. All four – Apulit, Miniloc, Lagen, and Pangulasian – are located on secluded private islands accessible only by boat. The El Nido Resorts group prides itself on offering exclusive high-end experiences to its guests while working with the local community to protect traditions and the environment.

The slow pace of sailing is extremely relaxing and naps on the bow are common

Choose your island based on your mood or purpose for the trip: Miniloc for fun, Pangulasian for opulence, Lagen for sanctuary, or Apulit for adventure.

It’s easy to nd a private slice of paradise in Palawan

While it’s hard to look past the original – Miniloc Island was the first resort of any kind in Palawan when it opened its doors to divers back in 1982 – Pangulasian is the showstopper. The resort is located on a private island called the “Island of the Sun” for its incredible sunset and sunrise views. Pangulasian is known equally for its impeccable service and private pool villas as it is  for its natural beauty. Frolic on the 750-meter stretch of snow-white sand before taking part in numerous activities like lagoon and island hopping tours included with your accommodation.

Pangulasian Island specializes in once in a lifetime experiences, think your honeymoon

Regardless of which resort you chose, you’ll be able to soak up this luxury experience guilt-free knowing that El Nido Resorts is committed to protecting this unforgettable place. The entire operation is designed to be as low impact as possible on the environment and culture. The Resorts seek to enhance the natural experience and thus prohibit jet skis and motorised sports equipment. Their team has also installed 21 moorings around Bacuit Bay to protect the coral reefs from destruction by anchors dropped by tour boats.

A private sailboat lets you see parts of the archipelago otherwise unreachable

The El Nido Resorts are tailored to make sure you have the best of both worlds luxury and adventure

The iconic overwater villas at Miniloc Island are the perfect place to base your aquatic adventures

Saving the Philippines’ “Last Frontier”

El Nido is often called “the last frontier” because, as the legend goes, the area was not discovered until 1979 by a team of stranded divers. But this nickname also describes the area’s unadulterated natural beauty, intact biodiversity and untouched islands and beaches. The fact that El Nido stayed out of the tourism spotlight until relatively recently created an opportunity for proactive preservation.

As luck would have it, stewards like the owners of the Bird House and the El Nido Resorts group are stepping up to preserve the natural splendour of El Nido and prevent it from becoming anything like Boracay. The future of the Philippines’ marvellous natural resources depends on our choices as travellers. ◼

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© This article was first published in Aug-Sept 2018 edition of World Travel Magazine.

If you would like to comment on this story or anything else you have seen on World Travel Magazine, head over to our Facebook page or message us on Twitter.

And if you liked this story, subscribe to our bi-monthly World Travel Magazine, a handpicked selection of editorial features and stories from Global Destinations, Inspire Me, Insider, Style File, Wellness & Travel, City Travel, Suite Life, At Leisure, Short Breaks and much more.

The post Discover Palawan – Philippines’ Sustainable Island Hotspot first appeared on World Travel Magazine.