Personal travel is returning, and with it a more conscious mindset
Personal travel is returning, and with it a more conscious mindset
MINDFUL VACATIONING
From zero-waste kitchens and recycling marine plastic, to giving free dive lessons to children to nurture next-generation respect for the ocean, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands is driven by a commitment to the health of the planet. Opening in Q2, the inaugural property from the new lifestyle brand by the Capella Hotel Group will advance the concept of purposeful travel with a hands-on, data-led approach, reflecting a brand-wide pursuit of perpetuity.
Patina is dedicated to making a difference. Its efforts include addressing waste in its supply chain, and ensuring energy-positive operations. It leads the way as the first resort in the Maldives with 100 per cent solarpowered kids’ club and dive centre.
As well, its vibrant Beach Club offers charming boutiques and a selection of upscale food and beverage options. Thoughtful designs by architects from Studio MK27 (by Marcio Kogan), Kengo Kuma & Associates, and Kerry Hill Architects achieve a fine balance between serene and social, all to ensure satisfying experiences for guests.
A RESTORED RYOKAN
Kyoto is the place to experience the cultural heart of Japan. A restored ryokan, the Sowaka Kyoto property fuses ancient traditions with cool modernity. Bedrooms and suites are discreetly arranged among green courtyards, with long corridors designed to evoke Kyoto’s alleyways. Traditional ryokan elements such as paper sliding doors are interwoven with modern comforts.
Every detail showcases local customs. Bath amenities are made with Japanese camelia oil, and the hotel’s water is drawn from its own underground spring. The intimate bar is the perfect setting to sample a curated selection of the finest Japanese whisky, sake and shochu. And the Michelin-starred La Bombance Gion restaurant lets you relax in true Japanese style
At Sowaka Kyoto, the ancient capital is on your doorstep, with private tours available to escape the crowds. Take a morning stroll among cherry blossoms in spring, and sample a tea ceremony in Kodaiji Temple. Visit the Unesco World Heritage site of Kiyomizudera Temple to see the sun rising over the city’s rooftops. You might even catch a glimpse of the maiko (geisha in training) as you wander the beautiful streets of Kobu or Shirakawi-dori.
TINY GREEN LIVING
Green sustainability is hardly a new-fangled thing for Biohotel Grafenast. In operation for almost a century now, it is a quiet and powerful place that is perfect relaxation and refueling soul and body. Located on 1,330 metres, with a stunning view of the Tyrolean Inntal, the property reflects the philosophy of striving for unity with nature.
All its rooms are built according to the strict criteria of sustainability and ecology. There are no television screens in sight anywhere on the property, so that guests can focus on nature and relaxation. An organic restaurant showcases the natural flavours and sweetness of regional produce. We are really more excited about a new experience it is offering. The biohotel has recently added a Tiny House as a holiday home for its guests at the edge of the property. The caravan offers space for a maximum of two adults and two children. With a gathered wood-burning stove, its own organic toilet, and “green water purification” including a spacious shower, the minimalist holiday home allows for a self-sufficient stay in the middle of nature.
A DIFFERENT KIND OF SPA
Asia is unarguably spa heaven. All throughout the continent, spa and wellness indulgence can be found in every price bracket. But if you’re ready for something less familiar, consider a holiday in the Alps, no matter which season, for the chance to try out a different approach to wellness.
Surrounded by the rugged beauty of Zermatt, the Cervo serves as a gateway to the mystical mountain world of the Alps, inviting guests to explore the impressive nature that surrounds the resort. A collective of seven lodges and 54 rooms and suites, it offers casual luxury in modern designs, warm colours and natural materials.
More than a genuine Alpine experience, it also offers a mountain spa dedicated to cajole body and mind into a state of harmony. Various traditional bathing cultures from all over the world have been studied and combined to create a unique flow at the foot of the Matterhorn. While it takes inspiration from the Japanese onsen, the Bhutanese hot stone baths and the Northern European sauna art, the new interpretation facilitates a journey into the inner self, making for a fresh and rewarding experience.