“The most beautiful thing in the world is, of course, the world itself.”
Summer ignites the wanderlust within us all and this season, Life N Style helps you steer away from the familiar tourist trail and towards extraordinary escapes. Scattered across the globe lie hidden gems – destinations that are meant for the discerning traveller.
These havens offer a unique blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and luxurious pampering, promising unforgettable memories and venturing beyond the expected, exploring the exceptional locales that deserve a coveted spot on your travel bucket list.
JAPAN
From the bustling streets of Tokyo, where opulent five-star hotels and world-renowned Michelin-starred restaurants await, to the serene landscapes of Kyoto, where traditional ryokan inns offer unparalleled hospitality and tranquil onsen baths, Japan caters to the discerning traveller seeking the ultimate in refinement.
Imagine exclusive guided tours through ancient temples and impeccably manicured gardens, bespoke shopping experiences in Ginza’s high-end boutiques, and private tea ceremonies that provide an intimate glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. For those craving adventure, the powdery slopes of Niseko provide world-class skiing, while the idyllic beaches of Okinawa offer a secluded paradise.
Whether you’re indulging in the country’s exquisite culinary offerings, enjoying top-tier accommodations, or exploring its stunning natural beauty, Japan promises an unforgettable journey that is sure to leave an indelible mark on your soul and it’s the reason why we rank it first on our list.
Our lodging recommendations showcase two very distinct sides of Japan. First up is Niseko, a renowned luxury destination in Hokkaido. This year-round haven is celebrated for its pristine, powder-covered slopes, and provides exceptional skiing and snowboarding experiences.
Our recommendation here is the Higashiyama Niseko Village, a prestigious Ritz-Carlton Reserve. It’s the first of its kind in Japan which offers a luxury experience that is very different from anything you might have experienced. Rooted in the philosophy of Kachou Fuugetsu — self-discovery through nature — it boasts over 2,100 acres of skiable terrain in winter and a plethora of outdoor activities amidst lush summer landscapes.
No trip to Japan is complete without exploring Tokyo, a city pulsating with rich culture and a high-energy metropolitan vibe. As you wander its streets you are bound to stumble upon ancient temples like Senso-ji and Meiji Shrine and around the corner, Akihabara explodes with neon lights, a vibrant hub of anime, manga, and cutting-edge tech. This thrilling clash of old and new, tradition and future is what makes Tokyo unlike anywhere else.
Foodies ourselves, here at Life N Style, we have to talk about the vibrant food scene. From Michelin-starred marvels to hidden ramen gems, Tokyo is a culinary playground for food enthusiasts. With the maximum number of Michelin-star restaurants in the world (194 at the last count) Tokyo tantalises the taste buds with a mind-blowing array of gourmet experiences.
Soaring above the vibrant heart of Tokyo is the Bulgari Hotels & Resorts. Occupying the top floors (40th to 45th) of the Tokyo Midtown Yaesu skyscraper, the hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, encompassing the historic Imperial Palace and the famed Ginza luxury shopping district.
This stunning property seamlessly blends Italian sophistication with Japanese refinement. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey savouring both phenomenal Japanese omakase experiences and exquisite Italian fine dining. Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, the hotel’s Italian restaurant, has already garnered a coveted Michelin star within just eight months of the hotel’s opening, a testament to its culinary excellence.
Luxury extends beyond the plate at Bulgari Tokyo. Each of the 98 immaculate rooms, across seven suite categories, reflects the hotel’s meticulous attention to detail. From the entry-level Superior Rooms to the expansive 45,000-square-foot Bulgari Suite (starting at a cool $30,000 per night), every space boasts hand-painted ceilings adorned with five layers of gold leaf.
MADAGASCAR
As an island steeped in extraordinary biodiversity, almost 85% of the plant and animal species found in Madagascar are found nowhere else in the world! This land of unparalleled adventure and indelible memories beckons the luxury traveller with the promise of verdant rainforests and pristine golden beaches as they present a rich tapestry of experiences that are as captivating as they are exhilarating.
Nestled in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar is a sanctuary of endemic wildlife and exotic flora. And the perfect place to take family, kids and loved ones if you want to reconnect with and explore nature in all its abundant glory. Here, the air is filled with the melodic chirping of frogs, the whimsical waddle of chameleons, and the vibrant flash of helmet vangas darting through the trees. Yet, it is the lemurs, with their fox-like faces, bright eyes, and plush fur, that truly captivate visitors, embodying the enchanting spirit of this island.
Madagascar’s national parks, such as the Andasibe-Mantadia and Isalo, offer further exploration into the island’s pristine wilderness. Andasibe-Mantadia’s lush rainforest, with its towering hardwood trees and cascading waterfalls, and Isalo’s dramatic Jurassic-era landscapes provide breathtaking backdrops for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Madagascar’s allure extends beyond its wildlife. The island’s natural splendour is complemented by luxurious retreats such as Nosy Be (pronounced Noosh Beh), an island infused with the sweet scent of ylang-ylang and lined with palm-fringed shores which is very popular with discerning French and Italian tourists.
From April to October, Madagascar’s favourable climate and fewer crowds make it the ideal time to visit. Whether traversing the serene beaches or delving into the heart of its rainforests, a journey to Madagascar promises a luxury travel experience that is both adventurous and profoundly transformative.
Our recommendation for a truly great Madagascan experience is Miavana by Time + Tide, a private luxury island located in a secluded archipelago off the northeastern coast of Madagascar.
It’s a great jumping-off point to explore the mainland but in itself is a great place to experience nature in an authentic and immersive way. Miavana’s story is one of environmental dedication. Over four years were meticulously spent restoring the island’s natural beauty by planting over 100,000 indigenous trees. This commitment to eco-conscious practices extends to the very foundation of the resort, with each of the 14 exquisite villas crafted using only natural and recycled materials.
Dotted along pristine white sand shores and bordering sprawling coral reefs, Miavana offers a luxurious haven for guests seeking an unforgettable experience. There is a butterfly collection, an extinct elephant bird egg, a pygmy hippo skeleton, antique manuscripts, ancient armour and amulets alongside an activities centre you can enjoy scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing, kiteboarding, ocean safaris, a variety of water sports, lemur trekking, quad biking and helicopter excursions among many other fun activities.
SOUTH KOREA
Our hotel of recommendation in South Korea is the Josun Palace, a part of the Luxury Collection Hotels in Seoul. This multi-award-winning hotel whispers grandeur and is located in Gangnam district. It is an upscale and opulent hotel with unique liberally scattered artworks all across the property – 400 to be precise. A part of the Marriott group this hotel is a favourite of the luxury traveller especially because the shopping district is right around the corner.
Under the visionary architectural eye of Humbert & Poyet, the Josun Palace seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with the timeless beauty of Korean design. A word of caution though the social media influencers have discovered it so you might find some posing for the perfect sun-kissed swimsuit photo in the pool area.
MALAYSIA
Did you know that Malaysia’s islands are ranked amongst the top 10 diving destinations in the world? Sipandan, Mabul, Redang the list is endless. Doubtless Langkawi is your first thought when it comes to Malaysia but there is so much more to explore that you may have to extend that vacation of yours.
The country is a captivating blend of ancient wonders and modern marvels. Towering rainforests teeming with diverse flora and fauna life give way to vibrant cities pulsating with multicultural energy. From Kuala Lumpur, where the iconic Petronas Twin Towers pierce the skyline to Melaka, a charming city steeped in history, where the past whispers from every quaint corner – the country has a lot to offer.
For the adventurous soul, Malaysia’s national parks offer exhilarating whitewater rafting experiences. For those who prefer the highlands, Cameron Highlands offers a UNESCO World Heritage site of George Town in Penang is a must-visit for its unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles and vibrant street art.
You will not miss your karak in Malaysia as ‘Teh Tehrik’, is a very close cousin. A food lovers paradise, the country’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavours from different ethnic groups like the Malay, Chinese, India contributing to its unique culinary traditions. Street food is a significant part of Malaysian culture, and cities like Penang and Kuala Lumpur are renowned for their hawker stalls, offering mouthwatering dishes like nasi lemak, char kway teow, and roti canai.
Malaysia’s blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, culinary delights, and adventure opportunities ensure that the country offers an experience that is as enchanting as it is memorable. Our hotel recommendation should come as no surprise – it’s in Langkawi. The Four Seasons Langkawi is cleverly tucked away within a UNESCO World Geopark and has its own private beach. Spread amidst 48 acres of land, the luxury property is lined with mangroves, winding rivers, and ancient limestone caves for guests to discover. The sprawling Geo Spa is perhaps the most innovative facility on the property, allowing guests to indulge in a range of treatments, such as the Marine Flora Immersion ritual, which is said to revitalise the lymphatic and immune systems.
ST. MAARTEN/ ST. MARTIN
This Caribbean gem, shared by the Netherlands (St. Maarten) and France (St. Martin), offers a delightful duality. Cross the open border with ease and discover your perfect vacation vibe.
St. Maarten, the electrifying Dutch side pulsates with casinos, bars, duty-free shopping, and nightlife that keeps the good times rolling.
St. Martin, the French flair meets island charm on this side. Indulge in exquisite cuisine, bask on pristine beaches, and explore breathtaking natural beauty.
Adventure awaits too! St. Martin boasts the Caribbean’s largest regatta (Heineken Regatta) for yachting enthusiasts, and the SXM Music Festival brings electronic music lovers together for a five-day dance extravaganza. Water sports, sailing, hiking, and ziplining are just a few of the other activities that will keep your adrenaline pumping.
Immerse yourself in the epitome of St. Martin luxury at La Samanna. Picture this: dazzling white buildings stand proudly against a vibrant azure sky, framing a platinum expanse of sandy beach sprinkled with inviting cabanas.
This haven, consistently ranked among the Caribbean’s elite, is a garden paradise waiting to be explored. Unwind with an alfresco massage, or simply sway in a hammock lulled by the rhythm of the waves. Embark on a day cruise to discover the island’s hidden gems, or indulge in a romantic private dinner by the shore. Here, at La Samanna, romance lingers in the very air you breathe.
