Other worldly hotels
Travel might not be on the cards right now but what's to stop us planning ahead? We've complied the very best places to be, you can add to your wishlist now, ready for once this phase has passed...
Bulgari Resort, Bali
The lowdown: The pristine setting – on the decadent south-western shore of Bali – is utterly awe-inspiring. The resort’s sleek and modern 59 villas are perched atop a lush hillside near Uluwatu, which is one of Bali’s most sacred temples.
The rooms: Frangipani-draped stone pathways wind between gorgeous thatched-roof villas constructed of local hand-cut volcanic stone and bangkiray wood. A sophisticated bathroom, breezy pavilion for dining and a plunge pool complete the look.
The food: For your palate, the Il Ristorante – Luca Fantin is the resort’s signature Italian restaurant set in a sophisticated openair dining room with mesmerising views, especially in the evenings over a reflective pool laden with floating candles. Or walk through to Sangkar for your fill of local and international choices where you can sit at a Teak wood art table and watch magnificent sunsets from the ocean-view deck.
The pampering: The cliff-top spa with views to-die-for offers the ultimate pampering for mind and body. Surrender yourself to the hands of experienced therapists how will melt the stress away.
Bulgarihotels.com
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
The lowdown: With its extensive private wooded reserve, stunning riverside setting at the foot of the mountains, terraced hills and waterfalls this is a haven of Andean charm. The rooms: The low-slung colonial style casitas, rough cobbled footpaths and spacious rustic-chic guest rooms with marble bathrooms and open-air showers are extremely elegant to cosy into.
The food: The all-day Café Inkaterra with its thatched palms and exceptional views of the Vilcanota River serves up great salads and Peruvian staples.
The pampering: After an excursion of the woods or the iconic ruins lie down to rest your tired bones at the UNU spa. Its location near the Andean sauna and the springwater plunge pool makes for an extremely soothing setting. Inkaterra.com
Hôtel Costes, Paris
The lowdown: The beautiful and luxe Costes is practically an institution for the most wellheeled celebrities and fashionistas alike. Its lavish décor, satin wallpaper and gleaming gilt is in keeping with the glitz of Rue Saint Honoré and also reminds you of the glamour of past eras. This is for the cool crowd.
The rooms: Lavish comfort and style is the essence here. Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, a visit has to be on your to-do list.
The food: The courtyard terrace is magical to dine in with its graceful statues, verdant plants, delightful views and subtle lighting The pampering: Curently closed. Hotelcostes.com
Narain Niwas Palace Hotel, Jaipur
The lowdown: Traditionally ‘Niwas’ means a home of the royals. And, royal it is. With acres of beautiful gardens and orchards, the high ceilings, exquisite chandeliers all speak eloquently of Rajput elegance.
The rooms: Boasting subdued colours, discreet patterns, rich fabrics and classic paintings, give you a feel of living like a Royal. And each of the room has spacious windows and provide breathtaking views of the gardens, too.
The food: Bar Palladio located within the grounds of Narain Niwas is as grand as they come. A gourmet feast for the eyes and your palate. Food is looked as a form of art in Rajashtan and authentic royal Thikana recipes are on offer.
The pampering: Along with the tranquil setting, the subtle fragrances of lavender, jasmine and lemongrass to greet you and indulgent massages and therapies on the spa menu, you are bound to leave feeling renewed and regenerated. Hotelnarainniwas.com
D Maris Bay, Turkey
The lowdown: The fabulous setting above a scenic cove where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean in this sun-kissed destination, surrounded by jagged volcanic rocks, five white-sand beaches, hillside lush and more, makes it probably one of the best luxury resort.
The rooms: Most of its 196 rooms have views of the sea, while the rest overlook a mountainous landscape with private balconies and terraces to relax in.
The food: Incredible flavours of the East and West are available to feast on. Zuma for the best sushi, Rüya for the Antolian and Turkish fare, Nusr-Et where dining under the stars is an option or the Terrace where a sumptuous morning buffet awaits.
The pampering: It’s really worth taking the time to pamper yourself at this wonderous property. The therapists at Myntha Spa will ensure you leave feeling good inside out. Dmarisbay.com