Seven Dream Destinations for the Summer
Summer is fast approaching and it’s time to start thinking of where we can retreat to and live the lives we deserve. I don't know about you, but a girl needs it! What I've got in mind is delicious food. Lots of food. Pornstar martinis on the beach and most of all plenty of vitamin D from the sun. So if you are in need of a little bit of inspiration, let us be the helping hand. Here are a few destinations that will satisfy your luxury needs.
1. Lewa Wilderness, Laikipia (Kenya)
Within a few hours of journeying towards the safari lodge and conservancy near the foot of Mount Kenya, you've probably already seen all the animals in the Big Five- buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhino. Lewa has become one of the most sought out community conservancies in the world. It is also an extremely pleasant place to vacation, from the rustic cottages with fireplaces offering a panoramic view of the Eastern Marania Valley to the communal outdoor meals prepared with the finest sourced ingredients.
At Lewa Wilderness, you are transported into a world far away from your own. You’re never a shy away from having a great time, with the breathtaking scenic flights in the retro WACO bi-plane to the unforgettable horse riding safaris and even camel riding. If you’re looking for a private, restful and elegant vacay, then this is the perfect place. Like they say in Swahili, “Karibu (Welcome)”.
2. Maldives
The Maldives is a dream destination for that slow summer living. You will be transported into a world of white sand beaches bordered with glistening azure waters. Do you wonder what it feels like to sip on a cocktail from your own private sun deck whilst soaking up the Maldivian sunshine on powder soft sands? Let us give you a tour of the islands.
Perhaps you fancy a secluded stay surrounded by endless waters at the Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives. An island hotel crafted with a blend of modern and Maldivian architecture with magnificent views of the sandy beaches and azure waters of the Indian Ocean. This resort is tailored to those that desire luxurious living, with breathtaking aesthetics.
The Maldives may be known for its honeymoons, but its private island resorts are the stuff families dream of too. Let me introduce you to Meeru Island Resort & Spa. Experience luxurious paradise on a secluded island escape with friendly hospitality and tropical accommodation. The adult only zones are an ideal space for the most beautiful romantic retreats, whereas the family -friendly spaces offer fun activities at the Komas Kids’ Club.
For unparalleled luxury and an ultimate paradise island experience, the Maldives is the perfect destination this summer.
3. Forte San Giorgio (Tuscany, Italy)
Want to step into a renaissance painting? Then Tuscany is the place for you! With its lyrical landscapes, incomparable art and architecture, sensational gourmet cuisine, the Tuscan experience is truly your holiday dream.
Forte San Giorgio, Tuscany is the rare Italian monument in which you can bask away overnight. This ethereal location is surrounded by pools, tennis courts, illustrious courtyards and a cavernous TV and games den. This secluded stay is bound to keep you in a relaxed state of mind.
Perhaps you want to live like a local and book an apartment in Livorno. Here you can dine at family run restaurants, wander through the streets massed with boutique stores and antique shops, along with a day trip to see the iconic leaning tower of Pisa.
If the history of Tuscany is what interests you the most, then lose yourself at the Gallerie Degli Uffizi or the Siena Cathedral. There are truly a vast amount of museums, churches and galleries that are ready to be admired.
4. Jamaica
White sand, endless sunshine, rum galore! What’s not to love? To add to that dramatic scenery, jungle-clad mountains and locals are as laid back as you would hope and expect. Jamaica has always been a long attracted holiday destination with a fascinating culture and ravishingly stunning coasts.
Take the 90 minute drive from Ocho Rios into the interior to Nine Miles to visit the birth and burial place of Bob Marley or see the waterfalls at Dunn’s River Falls at Ocho Rios. Visitors can climb up the rock pools and watch the water fall right into the sea.
Most visitors favour the resorts of Negril, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. The best known resort in Montego Bay is Round Hill, an elegant beachside hotel with rooms styled by Ralph Lauren. Whilst, Rockhouse in Negril is perched on the cliffs with lush gardens and pool built into the rocks.
If you are looking for some of the most authentic Jamaican cuisine, then it is always found amongst the locals. For an authentic plate of curried goat and roti, search for Moby Dick in Kingston.
There is nothing like relaxing in the Jamaican heat surrounded by great Reggae music, some rum punch and sandy beaches.
5. Thailand
Thailand is known to be the ‘Land of Smiles’. Best for their diverse landscapes, ravishing waters and friendly locals. This summer destination will surely put a huge grin on the face of any holidaymaker.
For the explorers out there, go shopping at floating markets, discover the remote jungles, dive among whale sharks and manta rays and visit the most peaceful temples.
Take a trip for a few days in Bangkok, the Thai capital, manoeuvring between the Grand palace, Wat Pho temple and the Chao Phraya River.
Bangkok is filled with some of the most prestigious hotels. Lining the banks of the Chao Phraya River, lies the glorious Mandarin Oriental hotel. This hotel offers you premium quality customer service and delicious food.
Thailand is truly an enchanting and heavenly destination to spend your summer. Don’t be the one to miss out!
6. Dubai
It’s impossible to talk about luxurious holidays without mentioning Dubai. Dare I say it is a crime, ha! The hotels are second to none, with lavish suites, award-winning spas and fine dining restaurants. Not to mention Dubai’s gravity defying skyscrapers, The Burj Khalifa.
Your moments aways from statement shopping malls and record breaking buildings. You won't struggle finding any designer store to your preference, you're truly spoilt for choice.
Dubai is truly child-friendly to the nth degree, crammed with fantasy themed parks, Disney styled water playgrounds. Add dune bashing and desert safari day trips. Let’s not forget the beaches with soft white sand and turquoise waters. I repeat “you're truly spoilt for choice”.
The Palm Jumeirah is one of the more notorious hotels in Dubai. The Palm, is the epitome of Dubai hyperbole, built on a manmade island with a huge waterpark and aquarium. If grand and luxury is what you are looking for, then I would definitely advise this hotel.
No visit is complete without visiting the Burj Al Arab. If you're desiring to see its sci-fi atrium, brag-worthy restaurants and Skyview Bar, then this place is for you.
7. Seychelles
Seychelles works hard to preserve its habitats, with entire islands dedicated to nature reserves. The country favours luxury lodges that don't dominate but melt into the landscapes. Once you've been pampered in the world class spas and have eaten at the finest restaurants, you can spend days hiking through the forests seeking out the wildlife.
The Seychelles is more than sand and sun. On Mahé, have a try at the Creole lingo whilst cruising through Victoria Market as you browse and barter for scrumptious tropical fruits and souvenirs.
Climb the highest mountain in the archipelago, Morne Seychellois or Morne Blanc. Both mountains are inside Morne Seychellois National Park, which is filled with hiking trails- the 45 minute Copolia trail is the most favoured.
Mango House Seychelles, Mahé is better suited to adults that value their privacy and enjoy eating lobster whilst playing a game of chess on the hand painted tables at Moutya seafood grill. Mango House gives you the feeling of being a celebrity. Featuring an infinity pool, Vogue worthy decor and an illustrious spa.
We all have a desired destination that we would want to travel to this summer, but with these seven destinations, you are guaranteed to enjoy the fruits of your labour.