EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL
By Paul Knowles
LA ZAMBRA MIJAS
BY PAUL KNOWLES
An Andalusian hideaway meant for discovery’ La Zambra Resort, a 5-star, Michelin-recommended property in Mijas, is nestled in the Andalusian foothills between Málaga and Marbella.
Formerly the Byblos Hotel, the iconic resort popular with A-listers from around the globe has hosted royalty and rock stars since 1986. The
luxury oasis has one of the Costa del Sol’s most expansive spa and wellness centres and not to mention a world class golf resort.
Andalusian architecture boasting charming courtyards, and original stone fountains are framed by picturesque mountains and spectacular sunsets.
Relax at one of the three swimming pools, or sample quality Mediterranean cuisine at the four restaurants.
Every guest room has a private terrace with lush garden views or stunning golf and mountain vistas.
We recommend a junior suite with ground floor terrace and sweeping views of the pool, golf course and mountains. Nestled in a quiet part of the resort off a stunning courtyard with huge fountain, the junior suite has a fully stocked bar, tea and coffee making facilities and plenty of storage space. Luxurious bathrobes and slippers are provided together with a full menu of items from razors to
toothpaste and adapters, chargers and even curling tongs so don’t worry if you’ve forgotten anything, they have it all!
A huge luxury bed commands the room and views with a comfortable corner sofa. A good size digital TV has plenty of channels and lots of English to choose from. The bathroom has double sink vanity, separate toilet with integrated cold or warm water bidet, a separate shower and a stunning deep bath. Plenty of fluffy towels are in keeping with the natural earthy tones of the resort. Plugs and USB charging points are all perfectly placed through the room.
Breakfast has plenty of choices from the usual cereals, fresh fruit, and juices, to eggs however you’d like them prepared by the chefs on hand. The Eggs Benedict is delicious!
12 different varieties of teas and more coffee options available than Starbucks.
For those with a sweet tooth for breakfast there is a full area of cakes and pastries and if that’s not enough the chef will cook to order your favourite pancakes or waffles.
Lunch at La Bartola overlooking the pool provides a huge variety of seafood tapas, light bites, salads and one of the biggest club sandwiches you’ll see. Enjoy local, national and international wines, and we would recommend an Aperol spritz or the famous La Zambra Sangria.
For dinner, you are spoilt for choice with so many options in Malaga, Marbella or Puerto Banus all 25 minutes away but if you want to escape the crowds then enjoy La Zambra’s Picador restaurant with a great selection of Andalucian sharing plates and a huge wall full of every red wine you could desire.
This stunning resort is perfect all year-round for a summer break or some winter sun.
Book online: www.lazambrahotel.com
Tel: +34951311234
Email: mailto:info@lazambrahotel.com
Exclusive Tips:
The guest relations team love to go that extra mile in making your stay memorable. Ask for Juan (Guest Relations Manager) he’s amazing and will guarantee you have the best possible experience.
Check out the secret signs throughout the hotel which reveal secrets and if you are lucky special gifts.
METT HOTEL & BEACH RESORT, BODRUM
BY PAUL KNOWLES
Bodrum is extremely popular in summer as it’s known for its riviera vibes whether it’s the culture, shopping or the highlife. Global celebrities are regularly spotted in the nearby town of Yalikavak also known as Palm Marina. Shop in Louis Vuitton, Fendi or Gucci and
dine in Zuma, Bagatelle or the special Godiva bar as you spot how many yachts have helicopters.
If, however you are looking for more of an understated less pretentious vibe METT certainly delivers. Nestled along the sun-kissed Aegean shores is one of Bodrum’s most pristine beaches ‘Haremtan Cove’, and the exclusive hideaway of METT Hotel & Beach Resort Bodrum.
Just minutes away from Bodrum is one of the most famous landmarks, The Windmills of Bodrum which were built in the 18th century. Their use continued until the 1970s, when they were replaced by motor power.
When in operation, The Windmills were integral to life in Bodrum and the city’s economy. They had to be sturdily built to ensure their continued operation, and they constantly operated throughout the year because flour would mold and worm easily. So, to prevent the loss of much-needed food supplies,
people would only grind enough wheat to meet their monthly needs.
Just past The Windmills you come to METT’s entrance and an impeccably dressed security guard who smiles as if you have made their day asks for your name. Once through the entrance you are surrounded by perfectly manicured trees, plants and flowers which are in abundance as you drive down the hill. Welcoming you are four staff all dressed as immaculately as the gardens and they accompany you through to reception offering a cold drink and towel.
Reception offers a glimpse into what you can expect at METT with a huge glass window soaking in the shimmering light from the Aegean with Greek Islands in the distance. Did I die and go to Zen heaven?
Check-in was easy and hassle free then we were escorted to our golf buggy with the option of going straight to our villa or a quick tour. We were excited so we opted for the tour.
The private beach and beach club are stunning and Folie Restaurant and Sea is where elegance and fun collide, offering vibrant culinary experiences from seabass to kebabs, various salads to all the usual lunch bites.
There was not one footprint in the sand on the private beach, it was absolutely stunning and for those who don’t like the sand, there are many decked areas and private cabanas if you want even more privacy.
The large outdoor infinity pool was such an Instagramable opportunity #METT. For those wanting to be pampered, MOI Spa has everything including the traditional Turkish Hammam.
We arrived at our home for the next few days: Villa 7010 a three-storey detached villa with infinity pool and full unobstructed views of the Aegean and Islands. A large entrance door opens up to a spectacular three-storey white marble LED staircase. To the right is a fully-stocked chefs’ kitchen. To the left is a huge open plan living room, dining room with floor to ceiling glass on both sides opening out to a decked infinity pool and views to die for.
Downstairs are two suites with dressing areas and ensuite bathrooms. Upstairs another two bedrooms and the master with the same views overlooking the pool, the sea and islands. We were introduced
to our team of staff who were going to be looking after us and they seemed to have the perfect balance of guest services and discretion. We unpacked and settled seamlessly into our home for the next few days. As a regular traveller for over 10 years, amenities are essential - the thread count of the sheets on the luxurious beds was in the thousands and when I say fluffy towels, I mean fluffy!
After an amazing night sleeping on a cloud “The METT Bed” we noticed our villa had its own WhatsApp group so guest services could send daily information (below). What a nice touch.
Breakfast at METT exceeds all expectations with the perfect balance between indulgence and healthconscious choices, all served in an exquisitely decorated setting with a view that takes your breath away.
From the moment you sit down, the attentive table service made the experience feel refined and relaxed. The menu offered a delightful variety, from beautifully poached eggs on sourdough with creamy avocado to a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring a colorful spread of fresh cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, and warm bread. The spinach omelettes were a standout—light, flavourful, and expertly prepared.
To accompany the breakfast, there was a wide selection of drinks, including freshly-brewed coffee, a range of teas, vibrant juices, and nutritious milkshakes made with your choice of milk— including plant-based options. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated, and the quality of ingredients was top-notch.
What truly elevated the experience was the ambiance. The breakfast area is tastefully decorated
with a calm, stylish aesthetic, and the panoramic view creates a serene backdrop that enhances every bite. Whether you’re starting a busy day or simply enjoying a leisurely morning, this breakfast is the perfect way to begin.
For dinner we decided to check out the Isola Manzara Gardens, a unique Italian restaurant listed in the latest Michelin Guide, as we wanted to experience the unparalleled views of Bodrum Castle.
Isola Ristorante pays homage to the essence of the rich culinary traditions of Sicily, Sardinia, and Capri. The home-grown concept by Sunset Hospitality Group transports guests to the Southern Islands of Italy with its enchanting blend of fresh and bright flavours, presenting Italian favorites along with an extensive selection of wine. Isola offers a vibrant ambiance and provides guests with warm, personalised service.
METT is a perfect escape for those craving a weekend getaway or an extended retreat, the 5-star lifestyle resort offers lavish guest rooms, premium suites, lofts, and villas all facing the Aegean Sea, each featuring private pools and lush gardens so it’s perfect for singles, couples, families or larger groups.
https://www.metthotelsandresorts.com/bodrum/
RAFFLES PRASLIN
SEYCHELLES
BY PAUL KNOWLES
Many of us have dreamed of visiting the stunning archipelago of the Seychelles, set off East Africa in the Indian Ocean. e island paradise, which spans 115 islands, is a picture perfect setting of white sand beaches famed for its coral reefs where there is excellent diving to be enjoyed.
Located on the tranquil island of Praslin, which boasts its own microclimate, the luxurious Raffles Estate Praslin is a hidden escape where you can truly relax and unwind whilst experiencing a retreat for the senses. Praslin is the second largest island in the Seychelles, full of bays with turquoise waters fringed with palm trees. e famous brand of Raffles hotels and resorts is world-renowned and synonymous with an unsurpassable level of guest experience. e location for a truly once in a lifetime getaway, Raffles Praslin is a beachside resort which comprises 86 expansive private villas which come with their own plunge pool and outdoor terrace, affording you sweeping ocean views. Guests can expect glorious sunshine during their stay, indeed the average temperatures are always tropical on the island.
ere are so many activities on offer at the resort, such as swimming and kayaking across the crystal
clear waters. Dining options at Raffles Praslin resort are many and varied with a wide selection of options available overseen by Executive Chef Chris Meredith who developed his impressive culinary expertise working at a host of prestigious hotels and Michelin starred restaurants. e elegant and contemporary Losean Restaurant serves a globallyinspired breakfast menu and a dinner menu which draws on Seychellois dishes inspired by the local area as well as those with Creole influences. Choose from indoor and outdoor tables with sweeping sea views where you can enjoy an array of excellent local seafood alongside a wine list which features a choice of classic wines and a dessert menu of patisserie and cakes. Curieuse Restaurant meanwhile serves a selection of sushi and sashimi as well as a pan-Asian inspired fusion menu. When it comes to relaxation the resort is unsurpassable, and The Raffles Spa is the largest in
the Seychelles featuring 13 treatment pavilions, an ocean view tea room, steam whirlpools, experience showers and outdoor lounges with soaking pools as well as a choice of beauty treatments on offer. Yoga and meditation can be enjoyed on the outdoor pavilions giving guests the chance to soak up the stunning views whilst exercising, followed by a relaxing massage.
In terms of excursions there is plenty on offer in the area and a trip to Mahé Island, home to the capital Victoria and a sightseeing trip to the mountain rainforests of Morne Seychellois National Park and the white sand beaches including Beau Vallon and Anse Takamaka, are a must. e Seychelles is home to rare wildlife such as giant Aldabra tortoises and sea turtles, so taking the time to organise an excursion to witness some of these amazing creatures is something not to be missed during the course of your stay. A visit to the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve is another trip which it is worthwhile including on your holiday itinerary, where you can enjoy relaxing walks surrounded by Coco de Mer trees whilst spotting diverse wildlife and hearing about the area from the knowledge guides who are always on hand to tell you fascinating stories. For a truly rejuvenating holiday, Raffles Praslin is an out of this world experience, the island is an idyllic paradise and staying here gives guests the chance to switch off from the stress of everyday life and enjoy an unrivalled sense of escapism.
EXCLUSIVE RECOMMENDATIONS
Ask the resort concierge about arranging a private chef for an unforgettable dining experience.
Swim in one of the two infinity pools at night to enjoy the starry skies above.
Sip the Seychelles version of a Singapore Sling, the refreshing Praslin Sling, at the poolside bar.
Relax at Takamaka Terrace, the only shisha lounge in the Seychelles, to enjoy evening cocktails.
Raffles Praslin Seychelles Anse Takamaka, Baie Ste Anne, Seychelles www.raffles.com/praslin
AVALON PALM SPRINGS
BY PAUL KNOWLES
The desert city of Palm Springs is not necessarily the first choice of many when considering a holiday in California, but the charming area boasts many examples of stunning architecture, which along with the hot springs and the sunny climate make this a destination which is definitely worth visiting.
For old school glamour and echoes of the charm of a bygone era, the Avalon Palm Springs has plenty to o er and it makes the perfect choice for a relaxing getaway. e hotel is something of a hidden gem with plenty of character and a secluded feeling which makes it ideal for a romantic break.
e four star boutiue hotel has a stunning interior design aesthetic created by Kelly Wearstler, who designed a style and colour scheme which seeks to combine the best of classic and modern elements - think rooms with neutral tones paired with bright splashes of colour, comfortable armchairs and deluxe beds. e hotel lies nestled between the downtown Palm Springs area and the stunning backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, which means there are some marvellous views to be enoyed. e Avalon group discovered the property back in 2003 and the accommodation consists of 67 sumptuous rooms and 13 villas with one
or two bedrooms, which are equipped with every convenience. It is easy to imagine stars of the silver screen both past and present checking in to this resort to enjoy seclusion and tranquillity, and indeed it is always a popular choice of hideaway for those looking for a sense of escapism.
e hotel has three pools, a spa and restaurant as well as expansive grounds and it has long been regarded as a desirable place to stay, due to the winning combination of location and facilities. All of the accommodation is bright, spacious and airy with lots of natural light flooding in.
ere are plenty of good restaurants to choose from in the area, and e Chi Chi Restaurant within the hotel serves a menu which fuses Latin-style cuisine with modern Californian influences, serving dishes prepared using the best of locally sourced fresh produce. Diners can expect hearty fare such as empanadas, tacos and burgers served alongside all-day breakfasts, a varied cocktail menu and a selection of juices created to give you everything from glowing skin to mental clarity.
Executive Chef Tara Lazar has developed a menu inspired by many of the dishes she encountered during her travels, which she has put her own spin on using the best ingredients to devise innovative dishes which give a nod to the South of the Border. The rooms and suites at The Avalon all come equipped with every amenity you could desire during your stay and the welcoming feeling makes you feel as though the hotel is a home away from home.
Relaxing by the pool is the ideal way to unwind during your stay, with comfortable loungers to recline on beneath the shade of parasols. There are beautiful views to behold everywhere, with lush palm trees and colourful flowers creating a pretty ambience. Poolside dining is available from Chi Chi too, with the emphasis on a relaxed, grazing style of dining of light dishes which can be enjoyed throughout the day.
The sprawling manicured gardens are full of picturesque fragrant flowers which create that classic Palm Springs ambience which the area is
so renowned for. is is the place to switch off your phone, soak up the sun and forget about your everyday cares. e peacefulness of the environment is complemented by the hotel’s Estrella Spa which offers a choice of treatments and therapies, designed to relax mind, body and soul. e focus here is on treatments which concentrate on wellness rather than solely beauty, and the spa is a retreat which centres on relaxation, balance and harmony.
For more active pastimes, the surrounding Coachella Valley is renowned for outdoor pursuits and stunning scenery, and there is plenty to choose from when it comes to activities such as hiking on some of the winding trails, horse-riding and cycling which are all available locally.
EXCLUSIVE RECOMMENDATIONS
Ask the hotel concierge about booking a hot air balloon ride (available locally) which is a unique way to get a superb aerial view of the area.
Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum to soak up a little culture during your stay and enjoy collections of work by western and contemporary artists.
Book a walking tour with the Palm Springs Historical Society to take in the celebrity homes and mid-century architecture the area is famous for.
For shopping enthusiasts, the Downtown and the Uptown Design District has a vast selection of stores selling artisan goods, fashion and antiques.
Avalon Palm Springs 415 S Belardo Rd Palm Springs CA 92262
United States
www.avalonpalmsprings.com
TAJ EXOTICA MALDIVES
BY PAUL KNOWLES
The 5 star Taj Maldives Exotica Resort and Spa is a dream destination, set in lush landscaped grounds on the private island of Emboodhu Finolhu, which is located just a 15 minute boat ride away from the capital Malé. e Maldives is renowned for its tranquillity
and a sense of wilderness abounds as soon as you arrive at the picturesque resort.
e luxurious location makes an ideal place for a romantic getaway, a honeymoon or simply for the holiday of a lifetime. is is a truly stunning escape, surrounded by the crystal clear waters of one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives. e horseshoe shaped resort comprises 64 private villas which overlook the azure waters, each of which come with their own plunge pool and a relaxing and contemporary neutral colour scheme. e white sand beaches are the perfect place to relax with a good book and soak up the sun, before enjoying a bite to eat in one of the many dining options available.
e 24 Degrees serves food all day with menus which draw their influences from a Pan Asian and European style of dining. Teppanyaki is available with a selection of seafood, meats and vegetable dishes which cater to all tastes.
e Deep End is the more upscale and fine dining choice at the resort, where the team of talented chefs create beautifully plated modern European food which fuses the best of Mediterranean flavours.
Ingredients are carefully sourced with a preference for local provenance and sustainable produce.
e resort’s Jiva Grande Spa is an authentic Indian style spa which o ers an expansive range of beauty and wellness treatments designed to rebalance mind, body and soul. Aromatherapy massages, yoga, meditation and traditional bathing rituals are sure to leave you feeling completely rejuvenated.
For those who prefer slightly more active pursuits, the resort has an extensive range of watersports on o er such as water skiing, banana boat rides, windsurfing, snorkelling and diving. It is even possible to get up close and personal with some of the sea life during the course of your stay, with shark and stingray feeding available as an excursion. Another must during your stay is to visit the National Museum located in Sultan Park Malé which showcases the fascinating history, culture
and society of the island with displays of historical artefacts. Check the opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment however, as they vary dependent upon the season!
If you are looking for the type of holiday where you can retreat completely from the world, Taj Exotica is just the place and there is even personal butler service on o er to make every part of your stay stress free. Your butler can arrange everything from breakfast on your villa terrace to tailor-made excursions and romantic private dinners. Every element of your stay can be created to your preference and it is easy to see why this magical paradise is an award-winning resort. For an unforgettable holiday experience this is an ideal choice, a true haven in every sense of the word. e privacy and seclusion is second to none and the facilities are such that everything you need is available within the resort.Taj Exotica is often ranked as one of the best resorts in the world, and you simply will not want to leave this oasis of calm.
EXCLUSIVE RECOMMENDATIONS
Ask the concierge about arranging a private dining champagne breakfast for a truly memorable experience.
A private sunset cruise is a must for an unforgettable romantic experience.
Try the local Maldivian cuisine during your stay which centres on excellent seafood, curries and delicious fresh coconut.
Visit The Equator Bar at the resort for music and a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy a superb wine list, cocktails, cigars and shishas.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives P.O. Box 2117
South Malé Atoll Republic of Maldives www.tajhotels.com
FAIRMONT MIRAMAR SANTA MONICA
BY PAUL KNOWLES
Situated just 8 miles from LAX, Santa Monica is the beachfront destination where you can truly wash away your cares and relax. e area is famous for its easygoing vibe and life centres on the beach where even a simple walk is a pleasure. With sweeping views of the glittering Pacific Ocean, palm trees and blue skies, there is no better place to spend a relaxing stay in Santa
Monica than the luxurious Fairmont Miramar. e 10-storey tower hotel was established in 1921 and it boasts a selection of rooms and suites equipped with every amenity you could possibly need including Wi-Fi, flat screens, and co ee makers. Upgraded rooms also feature balconies or patios, a ording guests beautiful panoramas. e restaurant and heated outdoor pool make the Fairmont Miramar the perfect holiday destination where everything you need is on hand and the sun shines throughout most of the year if you want to top up your tan whilst relaxing poolside.
e Exhale Mind Body Spa o ers a range of relaxing therapies such as massages, whirlpool baths, and restorative treatments. e spa menu is designed around the principles of ancient and contemporary therapies combined and the glow body scrub and Hammam detox therapy are the perfect treatments to get your body beach ready during your stay!
e most intriguing aspect of this resort is the option of bungalow accommodation, giving you the chance to enjoy your stay in total seclusion and privacy whilst still taking advantage of the hotel facilities and central location. e 32 garden bungalows are designed to feel like a home away from home, with a sense of comfort and classic style as well as a private patio. e jewel in the crown of these opulent bungalows is Bungalow One, which was recently renovated by Robb Report Home & Style. e elegant 2500 sq.ft bungalow has a mid-century yet modern aesthetic, with three bedrooms and the feeling of a relaxing retreat where you can truly unwind. e space is light and airy and the colour scheme is neutral with local vintage artwork adorning the walls, soft lighting and a selection of organic textures which convey the ‘surf modern’ ambience created by Los Angelesbased interior designer Michael Berman who drew inspiration from the beach and the relaxed local
vibe to create an easy breezy seaside feel. Bungalow One manages to be plush yet laid back, stylish yet understated, in short, everything you would want from holiday accommodation just a short walk from the beach. No element of comfort is overlooked in Bungalow One, with Scandia Linen and 100% Egyptian cotton bedding as well as Michael Berman custom designed furniture throughout, a La Cava Tub in the wet room and Molton Brown products in the bathrooms. Samsung Smart TVs are fitted throughout the bungalow and there is a Keurig co ee maker and True Beverage Center to provide refreshments. Venturing out in the local area, the beach is of course the first destination to head for during your holiday, with stunning views, a selection of watersports available and plenty of beachside restaurants for a spot of lunch overlooking the sea.
e shopping in the area is renowned for an eclectic mix of art shops, homeware stores, small fashion boutiques and famous brands within the locale.
Santa Monica Place is the area to visit for designer labels, with renowned fashion houses situated in the downtown area and of course no trip to Santa Monica is complete without paying a visit to Fred Segal which plays host to a range of emerging labels and designers.
After a long day of shopping, you can retire back to the secluded patio of Bungalow One which overlooks Miramar Gardens. This is the ideal place for a pre-dinner cocktail before heading to the hotel’s FIG Restaurant which has a casual dining style and serves a menu developed around the use of locally sourced organic produce selected from the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market. FIG serves everything from breakfast to dinner and having brunch there is a fun way to start a relaxed day, with a menu including eggs benedict, wa es, sandwiches, salads and burritos. In the evening, the menu centres on sophisticated and contemporary dishes including steamed Manilla clams, Baja seabass and prime ribeye steak with butternut squash and salsa verde.
e Fairmont Miramar is an impressive resort which has so much to offer and staying in one of the private bungalows is an unforgettable experience. Bungalow One is the ideal choice for a holiday of total relaxation and indulgence, with no attention to detail spared and an attractive beachside design style which makes you feel as though you do not want to leave.
EXCLUSIVE RECOMMENDATIONS
The traditional Lloyd’s Barbershop within the resort o ers male grooming with a complimentary drink of Bourbon, Cognac, or Scotch.
The Vilebrequin store at the Fairmont Miramar sells a selection of swimwear and resort wear, should you have forgotten to pack anything!
Dine at Valentino Santa Monica on Pico Boulevard for delicious Italian food in a stylish setting.
Visit the Santa Monica pier for a traditional seaside experience, including restaurants, shops and amusement park.
Fairmont Miramar 101 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States www.fairmont.com/santa-monica