The Luxury Traveller

The Hottest Luxury Travel Trends for 2009

As 2009 draws to a close I'd like to take a moment to pay homage to the little bits of luxury that made this year great.

Roof Top Dining in Asia
Asia has, and will always, hold a special place in my heart.  It combines everything I love about travel… fabulous hotels, endless shopping, endearing locals and divine cuisine.  This diverse continent also manages to push the envelope time and time again.  Something I've noticed take off in a big way is roof top dining.  Vertigo Grill & Moon Bar at The Banyan Tree, Bangkok sets the standard and Breeze at Scarlet in Singapore is a hidden treasure.  Siam @ Siam also in Bangkok has recently joined the race.  For breathtaking views, mouthwatering cocktails and something a little bit special dine on top of the world next time you’re in Asia.

Luxury Train Journeys
Cruising is so 2008.  2009 and onwards is all about luxury train journeys.  A respectful nod to classic luxury travel, train journeys are capturing the imagination and heart of seasoned travellers looking to experience everything that travel was and should be.  Discover India on the Maharaja's Express, blow the budget on the Venice Simplon Orient Express, survey the savannah on The Blue Train or traverse Asia onboard the Eastern & Oriental Express.

Premium Economy Class
One good thing came from the GFC… more carriers than ever are offering premium economy cabins on long haul flights.  It cost 10-15% more than economy class but it's definitely money well spent on those 8+ hour flights.  Virgin Atlantic is reputed to have the funkiest option, QANTAS will always be up there with the best and Air New Zealand aren’t too bad either.  The lovely people at Seat Guru will give you all the facts and figures you need.

2009 has given us a lot… but onward and upward… 2010 here we come!

This post is part of the 2009 Group Writing Project.

Ultra Fabulous Luxury Hotels in Asia

The era of bland hotel interiors is over. As technology has ushered people into the ultra modern era, so too has it invigorated a previously neglected industry. Hotels have become funky, uber modern and a little bit cheeky with their decor. Asia has been leading the pack for quite some time.

Reflections Rooms, Bangkok
Reflections Rooms is, at its heart, an art project. Its concept is to wed artistic expression with living space. The tone is always colourful, kitsch and accessible to everyone. Each room is inspired by the individuality of artists, freedom of expression and recycling for the uber modern lifestyle.

Reflections Rooms has 17 unique rooms, each specially designed by talented Thai artists, commissioned by art impresario and owner Anusorn Ngernyuang. The artists also create innovative products for everyday use which are on sale. Their expressive paintings and objects are on display at the funky gallery-restaurant, combining artistic soul, great food, and the buzz of Bangkok street life.

Ultra hip and ultra modern, this hotel also delivers on the technology front. Rooms feature: internet connections, satellite TV, DVD player, air conditioning, a mini bar, karaoke, and an international phone.

Gallery Hotel, Singapore
It's not difficult to spot the Gallery Hotel with its vivid facade overlooking the Singapore River. In fact, its unconventional architecture drew much interest from the public when it first opened. One of its most eye catching features is its cantilevered lap pool, walled by glass on three sides, with a partially exposed bottom, while another wow factor would have to be the "smart wired" rooms that have lights and air-conditioning controlled by computerized sensors.

Coined the "Hotel that Inspires" - the Gallery Hotel is Singapore's first hip art design hotel. This 223-room hotel features award-winning architecture and colourful interiors. Situated in the heart of the trendy Robertson Quay, Gallery Hotel offers a delightful waterfront experience.

Four Seasons Marunouchi, Tokyo
Prominently placed In the Marunouchi CBD, Four Seasons features a contemporary setting within 5-star luxury. Minutes from the Imperial Palace, Four Seasons is a quiet, luxurious haven of 57 spacious guest rooms and suites. The hotel is ultra modern in every sense of the word - from the polished minimalist decor to plasma TVs, egg-shaped bathtubs, an elite spa and gourmet dining. This 66-seat restaurant offers modern French cuisine in a setting overlooking historic Tokyo Station.

Amenities include: a fitness centre, business centre, high speed internet and spa. The spa offers shiatsu, steam sauna, a traditional Onsen bath, aromatherapy and reflexology - for the ultimate in relaxation.

Hotel 1929, Singapore
In a traditional city bathed in the glow of modernity, Hotel 1929 beckons with a whimsical mix of old world architecture and art nouveau chic.

The hotel features 32 individually designed rooms decked in a mix of classic designer and retro vintage furniture. The beauty of 1929 is that no two rooms are alike, from furnishing and beds right down to bathrooms. The hotel evokes the nostalgia of a bygone era, with the foyer showcasing photos from the early 20th century and a collection of unusual chairs from the owner's private collection. Highlights of the collection include a Joseph Hoffman 'Kubus' sofa designed in 1910, Arne Jacobsen 'Swan' and 'Egg' chairs, a pair of Poul Vaoulther 'Corona' chairs, plus many more.

Due to the history of the building 1929 is protected as a 'conservation' building, which serves as a fabulous juxtaposition to the flat-screen LCD TVs, CD players, digital phones and broadband connections that feature in every room.

Cosmo Hotel, Hong Kong
Cosmo Hotel in Hong Kong is a hip boutique hotel that surpasses the hotel tradition through its sleek interior, funky colour-coded rooms and ultra-modern amenities. Its charm lies in its inventive use of colour - soft orange originates from the reception area in the Lobby, while all the guest rooms are colour-coded in bright orange, mint green or pastel yellow.

Reminiscent of the sixties, the wallpaper blends seamlessly with the overall trendy, contemporary design of the hotel. The Nooch Bar is a highlight of this hotel, offering the most chic experience in town with award-winning cocktails, crystal decoration, and live music.

Speak to luxury holiday experts Travel Associates to book your next fabulous holiday.

Ultra Fabulous Luxury Hotels in Europe

Looking for chic ultra modern hotels in Europe?  There is a great range offering fantastic funky furnishings, art, music and food to delight the senses on all levels. 

Sanderson in London
While in London the place to stay is the Sanderson, London.  Located in the West End this hotel has been absolutely transformed by Phillippe Starck.  From the funky seats to the stained glass wall in the billiard room, the Sanderson truly offers modern luxury within a stone's throw of the best that London has to offer.  Even the music hits the right notes with tracks by the Arctic Monkeys, Super 700 and Mark Ronson.  From your special private fitness area to the elegant Egyptian cotton sheets, the Sanderson creates a combination of extravagance and pure simplicity. Suka Restaurant, nestled at the end of the Long Bar, combines both British and Malaysian foods and was created by the celebrated chef Zac PelaccioIt. After a sumptuous meal, retire to the Courtyard Garden and relax amid the flowering plants, mosaics and fountains.  The Sanderson is a truly surprising and sensual experience, nestled within the heart of London.

Hotel Sezz in Paris
A protégé of Starck, Christophe Pillet created a contemporary hotel with absolute harmony of space at Hotel Sezz in Avenue Fremiet, Paris.  With its acid colours, masculine furniture, leather and chrome beds and oversized bath tubs built for two, he has melded modern funk with comfort and luxury.  When you first enter The Sezz, you are met by a personal assistant to make your stay enjoyable, instead of a clerk behind a desk.  The Hotel offers personalised visits to the Veuve Clicquot cellars, accompanied shopping and gallery visits.  Spend some time in the Jacuzzi and steam room before heading over to the bar with its incredible grey and fuchsia intimate seating.   A short walk to the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadero Gardens, The Sezz offers authenticity with its natural fibres and rich woods. 

Aleph in Rome
Over in Rome, the Aleph is home away from home.  With its rich colours Adam D. Tihany has performed magic in this old bank building.  A few steps away from the Via Veneto, the Aleph offers minimalist design and an eclectic Italian design.  With Tihany’s larger than life photographs of a day in the life of Rome, the senses are delighted.  The gourmet food in the Maremoto Restaurant is basic Mediterranean style, superbly cooked and presented.  Savour the fiery red accents along with your food.  The old bank vault is now a pleasurable paradise of massage and body treatments, thermal pool, sauna and Turkish baths.

Radisson SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen
Arne Jacobsen let himself go in his work at the Radisson SAS Royal Hotel, nestled in the middle of Copenhagen.  A landmark building of the jet age, this Hotel stimulates the senses.  Its recent renovations have kept the contemporary Danish design.  With its funky swan and egg chairs to the individual check-in platforms, the lobby sets the scene for a truly remarkable experience.  The sweeping glass and chrome staircase sits amid the twinkling lights.  Your room oozes comfort and appeal and you may book a room overlooking the famous and fabulous Tivoli Gardens.  The innovative Scandinavian design is apparent everywhere you look, from the classic beds to the bathrooms.  The suites are spacious, with contemporary Danish furnishings. 

The Baby Grand in Athens
Athens has produced some exciting hotels since the Olympics.  The Baby Grand stands out if fun and funky is what you are after.  This five star hotel offers everything you expect and then some.  Stay in one of the quirky deluxe graffiti rooms where different artists have created different themes for each room.  They range from cartoon characters and Chinese landscapes to jungle scenes and Japanese street art.  When you enter the lobby you can't help but notice the book-in desks are two vintage Mini Coopers.  The modern twist of the Meat Me Restaurant to the decadent Spa Carita and the in-tune Moet and Chandon Bar gives you everything you want at your fingertips.  The Baby Grand is a short walk to the Plaka, the oldest section of Athens which sits in the shadow of The Acropolis.   On the other side, this vibrant hotel, in Kotzia Square, is a stone’s throw to the trendy Psirri area with its modern night clubs and bars.

Wherever you are in Europe, you can find the hippest hotels to make your stay enjoyable.

Courtesy of Travel Associates, the luxury holiday experts

Kuala Lumpur Shopping Tips

I've been wanting to do this post for a while.  A friend of mine, Michelle Nickelson, is without a doubt the expert on Kuala Lumpur shopping.  Her shopping tips have become something of a local legend in my part of the world and I am very pleased to be able to share them with you.

Download Shopping-tips   [pdf 127kb]

My favourite mall in KL was Sungei Wang Plaza.  Make sure you dedicate a whole day to this one.  Stay down the road at The Westin KL so you have somewhere fabulous to rest your feet when you're done. 

Enjoy your Kuala Lumpur shopping experience, lah!

Dinner 61 Floors Above Bangkok

As you get to know me better you'll discover that I have a love for travelling in Asia.  I love the hustle of  the cities and the beautiful of the beaches.  I also love a good shopping bargain!  But most of all, I love luxury Asian hotels.  One in particular that springs to mind is the Banyan Tree in Bangkok.  This place is sure to impress.  Last time I was in crazy Bangkok I visited the roof top restaurant, Vertigo.  Simply breathtaking.  The New York Times raved about this place.  Forbes said, "You're on top of the world when you dine at... Vertigo."

If you've got a fear of heights, don't go there.  Standing on the roof of a 61 story building could give anyone the willies.  The food is good (not great) but the views and cocktails will make up for any culinary shortcomings.  Make sure you reserve a table to avoid disappointment.  But most of all, enjoy yourself!  This is what life's all about.

Private Luxury African Safari Houses

A truly authentic African safari is in demand by an increasing amount of discerning world travellers. What better way to get this than to rent your own private house in the middle of Zambia, very wild Africa? This travel trend is on the rise as more and more people want a quiet hideaway, family friendly spaces and an experience that really does reflect real life in Africa. It may be considered somewhat of a luxury especially but take a look at what you get and then you decide if it's worth it!

1. You are still in the African bush surrounded by the standard safari environment of wild animals and thick woodland, except this time you are in a quiet space all to yourself. Just you, your family and friends with no chance of the over friendly fellow traveller or hyperactive group.
2. The freedom to set your own schedule is probably the biggest advantage, especially for families who may have other demands other than to wake up at dawn for the early morning safari.
3. An African safari in a private safari house can be completely tailor made. You decide what you want to do - laze by the pool, sip cocktails as you watch the sun set or track wild animals?
4. Each house also comes with wildlife guides for game drives and walking safaris. These become a truly intimate and personal experience with Africa and its wild population of animals.
5. These private safari houses seem more fitting as eco friendly safaris. Taking up less space and seeing much less yearly traffic than more commercial camps such hideaways are better for the Africa's wild spaces. Also, more and more visitor activities are being built around school and health projects so that local communities can benefit as they should.
6. These are stunning homes, for exclusive group rentals. Expect grand distinctive decor, buildings built from the finest natural materials that sit perfectly within the extensive African grounds.
7. Private safari houses are fully staffed and this can include beauty therapists, chefs, waiters, household help and babysitting services - perfect for families and those who really want the chance to switch off and not have to think about anything - not even the evening meal!
8. Many of these private safari homes also come with modern day amenities like the internet, cable TV and phones - if you want them that is! Though the kids might think they want these mod cons, it's more likely that tracking animals and fishing will be more entertaining once in a life time activities).

As the trend for more personal travel experiences rise, as world travellers become more and more eco aware and as the luxurious travel market expands (even in these economically bleak times) it's a good time to jump on this bandwagon. There are six private safari houses in Zambia - Luangwa Safari House (South Luangwa), Robin's House (South Luangwa), Tangala House (Livingstone), Chongwe River House (Lower Zambezi), and Shiwa Ng'andu (Northern Zambia).

Thanks to Sara Brown for this post.  Sara Brown is instrumental in the running of the Best of Zambia site (http://www.thebestofzambia.com/), a website dedicated to putting Zambia on the map by creating a strong internet presence and successfully promoting Zambia and those operating in Zambia.

Aerial Photography of Fabulous Las Vegas

The playground of the rich and famous, known for this extravagance and excess, has never looked better.  Have a look at these amazing Las Vegas photos by Jason Hawkes.

If you're looking for somewhere uber fabulous to stay in Las Vegas take a look at MGM Grand Las Vegas.  All that money you lost won't seem so bad when you're snuggled up here.

Luxury New Year's Eve Ideas

New Year's Eve… the best night of the year.  Right?  I've always been left a tad disappointed by New Year's Eve.  Don't get me wrong… any excuse to drink champagne is ok with me.  But I always manage to pick the wrong party.  In fact, in the not too distant past I was standing in the middle of the dance floor in a nightclub as the clock struck 12 thinking, "I'm getting too old for this." 

So what can we do when we're too old for all night drinking sessions?  I think I have the answer for you…

1. Sydney Harbour
I know I'm not getting points for creativity here but I could hardly leave this one off my list.  Sydney is famous for New Year's Eve.  The Hilton Sydney have some availability through www.travel.com.au in a couple of room types.  The hotel is a stone's throw for the harbour you so can see that fabulous fireworks display. 

2. Edinburgh's Hogmanay Street Party
I did this a couple of years ago and I can honestly say, without a doubt – this was the best New Year's Eve I've ever had.  The Scots sure know how to throw a party.  It's freezing cold but I swear you'll be having so much fun you won't even notice.  You have to buy a ticket and they sell out fast so if this takes your fancy better book right now.  The Radisson SAS Hotel Edinburgh has some availability through www.wotif.com.

3. New York
What a fabulous place to ring in the New Year!  This town needs no introduction.  Much like Edinburgh, you'll freeze your Prada pants off, but you're going to love it.  Brave the cold in Time Square or book yourself a spot at one of the many restaurants.  The Warwick Hotel is in a good spot and has some availability left.  They'll also be able to recommend a good New Year's Eve restaurant for you.

4. Singapore
Although this fabulous city-state is a melting pot of world cultures, New Years Eve is decidedly Chinese.  So much so that New Year's Eve isn't officially celebrated until the end of January.  And believe me when I say that the fireworks in Sydney look like a candle on a child's birthday cake when you compare them to Singapore's.  Do yourself a favour and stay at Raffles Hotel.  If the old world charm of this hotel doesn't captivate you then nothing will.

5. Dubai
I think Dubai would be incredible for New Year's Eve.  No one does luxury like these guys.  If you're really looking to blow the budget stay at Burj Al Arab.  New Year's Eve was cancelled in Dubai in 2009 so keep an eye on the latest news just in case.

A Bed Under The Stars

If anyone ever asks me if I'm into camping I always answer, "I'll sleep under the stars if there are 5 of them."  As you can see, I'm hilarious.  Then I started thinking... what would it take to get me into the great outdoors?  So I've found a few of the ultimate outdoor sleeping arrangements.

Loisaba Star Bed
Located in Kenya, Loisaba Wilderness represents some of the best in African luxury.  Boasting outstanding wildlife (you'll almost certainly see the big 5 here), breathtaking landscapes and friendly locals, this wildlife reserve is a must see.  But let's not forget the best part.  The unique Star Beds allow you to sleep under the stars in total luxury.

Soneva Gili
This post wouldn't be complete without the Soneva Gili in The Maldives.  This resort defines "barefoot luxury."  It would take a lifetime to count all the stars out there but someone has to do it :).  The wonderful staff here will arrange your sleep quarters for you - all you have to do is chill the champagne.

Longitude 131
Head into the Australian Outback and you'll find this little gem.  It's not technically open air but it is fabulous.  Luxurious, eco-sensitive and romantic this 5-star resort in a stone's throw from Uluru (Ayres Rock).  There are just 15 luxury tents here so you'll feel like you and your companion are the only people in the world.

Do you know of any other 5-star open air sleeping options?  Leave a comment for this post

The Hermes Passport Holder

There is something about Hermes that oozes classic travel luxury.  In my globe trotting I stumbled across the Hermès calfskin Flight Envelope and fell in love.  I won't bang on about it but I think it's definitely worth the investment.  It's understated (no logo on the outside) and sexy.  Most importantly, it has a spot for all those important travel docs that I was forever digging in the bottom of my bag for.

The LA Times did a great review of passport holders and cases a couple of years ago, so if this one isn't to your taste hopefully one of the other five they mention will be.