While Dubai’s sunny skies and balmy weather make it an ideal home base through the winter months, there’s something thrilling about breaking out of your comfort zone and discovering what other parts of the world have to offer. Whether you’re looking to kick back and relax or fill your days with adventure, travelling allows us to experience new cultures and create lasting memories along the way.
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Location: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Tucked deep within the lush rainforests of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda lies One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, an eco-lodge perched high in the trees. This national park has become famous for its diverse tapestry of wildlife, including over 340 mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and 300 bird species. Carefully constructed to minimize environmental impact, this remote resort offers guests a front-row seat to observe these natural wonders of the jungle straight from your hotel.
Suspended walkways and treehouse suites give visitors sweeping views of the forest canopy and chances to spot native birds flitting amongst the leaves. But the main attraction is closer than expected – families of endangered mountain gorillas make their home within the surrounding bamboo thickets.
Start your day by waking up early for a morning trek through the mist-shrouded forests. Led by experienced guides you will have the chance to witness gorillas emerging just meters away. Young playfully tumbled while silverbacks guarded the perimeter – to witness this spectable is a humbling to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural realm.
The towering bamboo and forest trails surrounding One&Only Gorilla’s Nest lodge offer guests a unique opportunity to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural rainforest habitat.
Each morning, guests can embark on trekking excursions led by local guides who have intimate knowledge of the movements of resident gorilla troops. Traversing the misty pathways, trekkers can witness gorilla families from as close as 10 meters away if they are lucky. Led by silverback males, the troops appear unaware of the human presence while nursing young, playing, or feeding.
Back at the lodge, the day unfolds at the on-site spa. Local botanicals feature prominently in rejuvenating treatments designed to soothe sore muscles. Come evening, the lodge transforms with the light of flickering fireflies. As nature’s symphony rises, guests dine on gourmet fare, energized yet relaxed by the ambiance.
7132 Hotel
Location: Vals, Switzerland
Tucked high in Switzerland’s picturesque Graubünden region lies a mountain oasis worthy of any luxury traveller’s bucket list. The stunning 7132 Hotel marries impeccable Swiss-inspired design with unmatched panoramas spanning rugged peaks as far as the eye can see.
Each of the hotel’s 73 light-filled accommodations – from standard suites to opulent presidential and penthouse options – treat guests to expansive windows framing breathtaking alpine scenery. Cozy up by the fireplace with views of snowcapped giants or gaze upon emerald pastures from the spacious balcony.
After working up an appetite hiking the area’s lush trails, pamper body and spirit at the spa’s tranquil hot spring and hammam. Then refresh with seasonal European fare at one of three unique on-site eateries, like regional specialties prepared with ingredients foraged that very morning.
When it’s time to relax, retreat to the lounge offering curated selections from boutique winemakers and distillers. Elsewhere, a dedicated kids’ club ensures little ones stay entertained while parents reconnect.
With touches like complimentary heli-transfers whisking you between activities with ease, the 7132 delivers the ultimate luxurious retreat for both alpine adventures and hospitality.
Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa
Location: Fasmendhoo Island, Maldives
Nestled in the heart of one of the Maldives’ most picturesque atolls lies the Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, an idyllic sanctuary beckoning GCC travelers with its turquoise lagoons and powder-soft sands.
The resort’s overwater villas and beachfront suites offer front-row views of the Indian Ocean’s kaleidoscopic waters. By day, adventures abound underwater on vibrant coral reefs or at the resort’s infinity pool. Come dusk, the scene is set for sunset cocktails as waves lap gently below.
Those seeking to relax and unwind will find respite at the Emerald Spa. Traditional Maldivian therapies harness local botanicals to rebalance body and soul against a backdrop of swaying palm trees and ocean vistas.
Culinary discovery also awaits with an array of dining concepts showcasing international cuisine. Whether poolside or under a tapestry of stars, flavors are expertly paired with beautiful waters at every turn.
Situated in one of the archipelago’s most idyllic settings in Raa Atoll, the Emerald Maldives offers travellers an authentically Maldivian experience with all the luxuries of a high-end escape. Its secluded and welcoming shores promise the perfect balm for those yearning to bask in the islands’ radiant sunshine.
Ultima Courchevel Belvédère
Location: Courchevel, France
Nestled in the picturesque Savoie region of eastern France sits Ultima Courchevel Belvédère, an exclusive ski-in, ski-out mountain retreat boasting spellbinding views across a landscape dusted with powdery snow.
Nestled at an altitude of 1,750m in the idyllic Sunny Valley, the resort comprises 13 charming chalets providing all the comforts of a luxury ski lodge. Guests here can soak in expansive mountain vistas from the on-site restaurant and cocktail bar.
After exploring over 600km of meticulously groomed pistes on the resort’s doorstep, unwind with spa treatments at the state-of-the-art wellness facilities. Warm up with a steam in the hammam before treating tired muscles to massage.
When darkness falls, it’s just a short shuttle into Courchevel town’s lively bars and restaurants. Or let the expert ski guides show visitors untracked powder stashes across The Three Valleys’ vast terrain.
Non-skiers can cappuccino-sip while boutique shopping, or join cultural excursions to local hamlets with help from the resort’s personal concierge team.
With impeccable service and breathtaking Alpine scenery, Ultima Courchevel Belvédère delivers the quintessential French ski escape just steps from some of Europe’s finest and most extensive slopes.
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