SUMMER 2026 Ultratravel

Unforgettable Journeys

Stay Somewhere That Stays With You

THE WORLD’S MOST EXTRAORDINARY INDEPENDENT HOTELS

Iconic addresses in capital cities and remote retreats. Historic sites and mountainsides. Local landmarks, luxury lodges and modern grand hotels. Michelin stars, storied bars and escapist spas.

NOBODY DOES IT BETTER™

Spaciously Intimate All-Suite, All-Balcony Ships

Welcoming No More Than 822 Guests

Nearly One Dedicated Crew Member Per Guest

Exquisite Fine Dining, Wines and Spirits

Sailing the World with Over 3,400 Included Excursions

One All-Inclusive Fare

THE JOY OF DISCOVERY

15 • Editor’s Letter

Some places never truly let you leave, even after you’ve departed. By Farhad Heydari

19 • Island Invitation

New destinations, strategic partnerships and branded residences are creating fresh opportunities to explore — and invest. By Yasmin Harake

24 • The Shortlist

From collectible timepieces to signature scents, discover the latest additions to our luxury wish list. By Ultratravel editors

IN THIS ISSUE

27 • Where Journeys Begin

The future of flight may unfold in the air, but it is shaped on the ground. By Nigel Tisdall

33 • Timely Arrivals

This year’s edition of Watches & Wonders proved that even centuries-old crafts can still defy expectations. By Chris Hall

SUMMER 2026

38 • Kyoto, Quietly

For those who wander, Japan’s cultural capital offers more than its photographed landmarks. By Danielle Demetriou

45 • Azure Appetite

The Riviera’s restaurant scene is entering a vibrant new chapter, balancing heritage with innovation. By Lanie Goodman

52 • White Lotus

Some cars tell you where a brand has been. The Emeya hints at where it’s going. By Adam Hay-Nicholls

COVER IMAGE: KIYOMIZU-DERA TEMPLE PAGODA, KYOTO. ADOBE STOCK

EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Farhad Heydari farhad@ultratravel.com @MrFarhadHeydari

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Andrew Cowan

SENIOR EDITOR: Yasmin Harake

CONTRIBUTORS

Danielle Demetriou, Lanie Goodman, Chris Hall, Adam Hay-Nicholls, Nigel Tisdall

PUBLISHING

CHAIRMAN

Nick Perry nick@ultratravel.com @MrNickPerry

EUROPE NEIL SARTORI neil.sartori@mediainterlink.com

UNITED KINGDOM NICK SARGENT & JULIETTE OTTLEY sargent@ultratravel.com, ottley@ultratravel.com

© 2026 Published by PGP Media Limited on behalf of UHC Cayman Holdings Limited, Northside House, Mount Pleasant, Barnet, Hertfordshire, EN4 9EE, England, UK. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this publication, no responsibility can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork submitted. The information contained in this publication is correct at the time of going to press. Views expressed are not necessarily those of

MEANINGFUL MOVEMENT

With sweeping views of

Farhad Heydari EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ultratravel

Time and again

For many travellers, Japan is a destination. For others, it becomes an obsession.

I first visited more than three decades ago and have been drawn back again and again ever since. In that time, I have watched the country evolve at a remarkable pace while somehow remaining reassuringly true to itself. It is a place where centuries-old traditions sit comfortably alongside cuttingedge innovation; where extraordinary hospitality is effortless; and where even the most familiar destinations continue to reveal something new with each visit.

Perhaps that is why Japan exerts such a powerful hold over seasoned travellers. Long after the photographs have been shared

and the souvenirs unpacked, its influence lingers. It might be the memory of a perfect sushi counter in Tokyo, a ryokan tucked away in the mountains, a fleeting glimpse of Mount Fuji from a speeding train or the quiet ritual of an evening spent bathing in the healing waters of an onsen. No matter how many times I return, I always leave with a list of places I still want to revisit — and several more I have yet to discover.

That enduring sense of curiosity feels particularly relevant to this issue of . As international travel continues to flourish, we explore a collection of destinations, experiences and innovations that remind us why the journeys themselves

matter. From a new generation of airports opening up previously distant corners of the globe to the evolving culinary landscape of the Mediterranean, from exceptional timepieces and motoring icons to the latest developments across the Global Hotel Alliance portfolio, this edition celebrates the thrill of discovery in all its forms.

Yet if there is one lesson Japan continues to teach me, it is that the most rewarding journeys are rarely about ticking boxes. They are about returning, looking more closely and allowing a place to reveal itself over time.

I hope this issue inspires a few such journeys of your own.

ISLAND INVITATION

Some addresses are investments. Some are lifestyles. Nikki Beach’s first resort in the Western Hemisphere intends to be both bringing branded residences and beachfront living to Antigua’s west coast. By Yasmin Harake

ARTFUL ADDRESS

European refinement arrives in Miami, where Kempinski is bringing more than 125 years of hospitality expertise to one of the city’s most creative neighbourhoods.

As branded residences continue their rapid expansion across the luxury hospitality sector, Kempinski is preparing to bring its own interpretation of the concept to Miami. Rising in the heart of the city’s Design District, Kempinski Residences Miami (kempinskiresidensesmiami.com ) will pair the Germanfounded, Geneva-headquartered brand’s longstanding reputation for service with a neighbourhood celebrated for its concentration of art, architecture, fashion and design. Scheduled for completion in 2029, the development has been conceived by Arquitectonica, with interiors by Rockwell Group and landscape architecture by Enea. Together, they will create a collection of residences shaped

With direct access to one of the Caribbean’s most breathtaking shorelines, the development by White Sand Development Ltd., a subsidiary of the Ayre Group, will draw inspiration from its eye-catching surroundings. ROAM Interior Design has envisioned interiors featuring neutral tones, sea-glass greens, ocean blues and warm wood detailing that will reflect the laidback rhythm of life for which Antigua is known.

Owners will be able to immerse themselves however they choose in these chic surroundings – whether unwinding at the on-site beach club, enjoying the 11,000-square-foot spa and wellness centre or relaxing in the Residence Owners Lounge. Oceanfront pools and expansive terraces will further enhance the littoral experience.

The project arrives amid a wider boom in branded residences across the luxury hospitality sector. Increasingly, leading brands are looking beyond traditional guestrooms towards ownership models that combine private residences with resort-style amenities and services. Within the Global Hotel Alliance portfolio alone, distinguished marques such as Anantara, Kempinski (see sidebar) and Viceroy to name just three, have embraced the model, reflecting growing demand among affluent buyers for homes that offer both lifestyle benefits and global brand affiliation.

Bringing the tropical tranquillity of Antigua’s west coast together with the signature sophistication for which the brand is known, The Residences at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Antigua will offer more than a sanctuary on the sand. As a member of the GHA DISCOVERY programme,

“The Residences at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Antigua will offer more than a sanctuary on the sand”

GSTRENGTH IN NUMBERS

A quintet of independent hotel brands join GHA, strengthening its global reach while preserving the individuality that defines each collection.

lobal Hotel Alliance has expanded its collection of member brands with the addition of five new member groups, broadening the presence of GHA DISCOVERY across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East while establishing a significantly stronger position in Japan.

The additions underline the continued appeal of collaboration among independent hospitality groups, particularly at a moment when scale, loyalty and distribution have become increasingly important without requiring brands to surrender their own identities. For GHA DISCOVERY’s 35 million-plus members, the move broadens choice in established destinations including Hong Kong, Barcelona, Vienna and Prague, while extending the alliance’s reach across Japan and taking it into Zagreb, Croatia, and Rabat, Morocco, for the first time.

A family-owned approach to hospitality arrives via Almanac Hotels (almanachotels.com), whose collection of boutique properties in Barcelona, Vienna and Prague has built a reputation for combining contemporary design with a strong sense of local identity. Founded by Austrian entrepreneur Herbert Haselbacher and his daughter Tina, the group places considerable emphasis on neighbourhood connections, regional gastronomy and collaborations with local creatives.

Adding significant scale to the alliance is Regal Hotels International (regalhotel.com ), the Hong Kong-based operator whose portfolio spans 11 properties across the Regal, Regala and iclub brands. Established in 1979, the company operates approximately 6,800 rooms alongside an extensive collection of restaurants, bars and event spaces, reinforcing GHA’s presence across one of Asia’s most important gateway cities.

A more resort-focused perspective arrives with STORY Hotels & Resorts (story-hospitality.com) whose five-property portfolio stretches from the Seychelles to Morocco and the Middle East. With an emphasis on destination-led experiences, wellness and architectural sophistication, the collection includes STORY Seychelles at Beau Vallon Bay, one of the Indian Ocean’s most recognisable luxury addresses.

Above: Almanac’s Viennese flagship occupies one of the city’s grandest historic addresses; Below: Prague’s Almanac X Alcron brings a modern edge to the brand’s design-led ethos

A more intimate dimension comes courtesy of TemptingPlaces Collection (temptingplaces-collection. com), a curated portfolio of boutique hotels united by a shared focus on character, cuisine and wellbeing. Inspired by the French art de vivre, the collection includes Château d’Augerville Golf & Spa Resort in France and Dent Blanche Resort in Switzerland.

Bringing further momentum is Tokyu Hotels & Resorts (tokyuhotels.co.jp/en), the first Japanese hospitality group to join GHA. With 61 hotels across Japan under brands including The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, Tokyu Hotel, Excel Hotel Tokyu and Tokyu REI Hotel, the group enhances the alliance’s position in a market enjoying record inbound tourism growth. The addition provides GHA DISCOVERY members with broader access to destinations across Japan, while introducing Tokyu’s local approach to hospitality to a wider international audience.

by contemporary design, generous living spaces and a strong sense of place.

The setting is equally compelling. Long regarded as Miami’s creative epicentre, the district continues to attract collectors, entrepreneurs and tastemakers from around the world. For Kempinski, whose portfolio spans grand city hotels (including the newly acquired Augustine Hotel, Prague), storied resorts across Europe, the Middle East and Asia, it represents a natural evolution — one that feels perfectly attuned to the rhythm and ambition of modern Miami.

The announcement caps a busy period of expansion for GHA. Alongside the addition of five new brands, existing members have also introduced 14 hotels and resorts worldwide since January, including Capella Kyoto, Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi Florence, Corinthia Rome, Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp in Zambia and Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel on Australia’s Sunshine Coast.

For GHA, the significance extends beyond simple growth. The latest additions enhance the alliance’s central proposition: independent brands can retain their individual identities while benefiting from a shared loyalty platform and greater global visibility. For travellers, the result is a vast network spanning European cultural capitals, Japanese city escapes (see page 38 for a quieter take on these) and much more – all connected through a single loyalty ecosystem.

SLOW LIVING SERENITY

Above: Discover a lifestyle that will be defined by slow afternoons, sun-soaked loungers and the unhurried ease of turquoise waters; Right: One of seven beachfront villas envisioned for residents to settle in and stay for longer

the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, owners will be able to enjoy privileges extending far beyond Antigua, including the ability to earn and spend DISCOVERY Dollars across a portfolio of more than 1,000 hotels and resorts worldwide.

And for those who wish to fully embrace the local lifestyle and permanently put down roots, the project has been approved for Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Programme, which provides buyers with the opportunity to acquire citizenship while securing a stake in a fully managed resort community in Antigua. For a destination that has never needed to shout to be heard, it feels a fitting next chapter. ownnbantigua.com

For more information or to join the programme for free, visit ghadiscovery.com or download the GHA DISCOVERY mobile app.

NEW DIRECTIONS

Residential living in Dubai and a new hotel in northern Brazil signal the next phase of development for Cheval and Tivoli.

Agrowing collection of resorts, residences and leisure attractions is beginning to reshape Dubai Islands — and Cheval Collection (chevalcollection.com ) is preparing to become part of the story. The group has unveiled plans for Cheval Residences Dubai Islands, a 114-key waterfront development overlooking the Gulf that will bring its hospitality-led residential model to one of the emirate’s most closely watched master-planned destinations. Scheduled for completion in 2028, the project will add a distinctly residential dimension to a district that is rapidly emerging as a focal point for tourism, lifestyle and real-estate investment.

Elsewhere, attention is turning to northern Brazil, where Tivoli Hotels & Resorts (tivolihotels.com ) has announced the Tivoli Maiorana Belém Pará Hotel. Developed in partnership with the Maiorana Group, the property will rise on the shores of Guajará Bay in Belém, a city that continues to attract growing international attention as the principal gateway to the Brazilian Amazon. The hotel will form part of a wider mixed-use scheme incorporating residential, retail and commercial elements, while further strengthening Tivoli’s presence in one of Latin America’s most dynamic hospitality markets.

Though separated by geography, the two projects share a common thread: a belief in the enduring appeal of destination-led development, whether on Dubai’s evolving coastline or in one of South America’s most culturally significant cities.

SENSORY SPACES

Above: Dining at Tivoli Maiorana Belém Pará Hotel unfolds as a sensory experience

Left: At Cheval Residences Dubai, refined residential living meets the city’s dramatic skyline

SPICE OF LIFE

The pinnacle of Caribbean luxury. This breathtaking beachfront residence offers uninterrupted sea and Piton views, featuring nine luxurious bedrooms, world-class amenities, and the unparalleled service of Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort. Enjoy the expertise of a private chef and daily dining experiences tailored to you.

www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/sugar-beach sb.reservations@viceroy.com

THE SHORT

What’s hot, what to buy and what to know, as compiled by Ultratravel editors

THE DAZZLING DOZEN

Richard Mille (richardmille.com) is marking two decades of watchmaking for women with one of its most ambitious creations to date. The RM HJ-02 In-House Automatic Tourbillon comprises 12 unique timepieces, each conceived around a kaleidoscope of precious and ornamental stones that shape not only the watch’s appearance but its very structure. Organised into four colour families — pink, violet, blue and green — the collection blurs the boundaries between haute horlogerie and high jewellery, pairing a newly developed in-house automatic tourbillon calibre with intricate gem-setting techniques that extend from the case and buckle to the movement itself. Drawing inspiration from Art Deco geometry while remaining unmistakably Richard Mille, the result is a series of highly individual pieces where mechanical ingenuity and artistic expression are given equal billing.

“12 unique timepieces, each conceived around a kaleidoscope of precious and ornamental stones that shape not only the watch’s appearance but its very structure”

“The collection nods to the romance of mid-century travel while acknowledging a more contemporary reality”

METAL DETECTOR

For decades, aluminium luggage has been associated with a particular vision of travel: elegant, durable and built to accompany a lifetime of journeys. Now, Carl Friedrik (carlfriedrik.com) is bringing its own interpretation to the category with the launch of Aluminium, a collection that pairs brushed metal shells with the vegetable-tanned leather detailing for which the brand has become known. The inaugural release centres on a 38-litre carry-on designed to balance robustness with refinement, featuring reinforced corners, integrated TSA locks and Japanese-engineered Hinomoto wheels. Available with black, chocolate or cognac leather accents, the collection nods to the romance of mid-century travel while acknowledging a more contemporary reality: travellers are increasingly buying fewer pieces and expecting them to last longer.

TURNING PAGES

Art, aviation and life’s finer accoutrements provide the inspiration for this season’s most enticing reads. In France: In the Footsteps of the Great Artists, Nick Trend traces the landscapes, studios and cafés that shaped some of the country’s greatest creative minds, while Lufthansa: The First 100 Years charts a century of innovation, design and global travel through the story of one of aviation’s most recognisable names. Elsewhere, Ultimate Toys for Men celebrates a curated world of exceptional craftsmanship, from watches and automobiles to tailoring and superyachts. Together, the trio offers ample inspiration for future journeys — whether undertaken from an armchair or a departure lounge.

JEWEL BOX

What began as a one-off collaboration has evolved into something far more enduring. Following the success of a bespoke Bentley Continental GTC unveiled in 2024, Boodles (boodles.com) and Bentley (bentleymotors.com) have expanded their partnership with a design pack that can now be commissioned across the marque’s model range. The first example is an extended-wheelbase Bentayga created through Bentley’s Mulliner division, where subtle diamond-inspired detailing, bespoke badging and jewellery-influenced finishes bring Boodles’ design language into the automotive world. Available in two specifications, the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to craftsmanship and personalisation. For Boodles — long recognised not only for its jewellery collections but also as one of Britain’s leading Patek Philippe retailers — the project represents a natural extension of a world where exceptional design, rarity and attention to detail are paramount.

THE SHORT LIST

“The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to craftsmanship and personalisation”

SCENT OF PLACE

From the mystery and romance of the Middle East to the landscapes and memories that have shaped one of Italy’s best-dressed brands, this season’s most intriguing launches are united by a powerful sense of place. Inspired by Arabian nights, Marc-Antoine Barrois (marcantoinebarrois.com) has created a Harrods-exclusive fragrance, while Zegna’s (zegna.com) Memories collection draws on personal recollections and the spirit of Italy. Bringing the outdoors in, Airy (airyfragrances.com) channels the restorative qualities of nature through its Forest Breath diffuser, while Swiss skincare specialist Niance (niance.com) rounds out the selection with a pair of wellness-focused treatments designed to nourish, restore and rejuvenate. Together, they offer a sensory journey that extends far beyond the bathroom shelf.

GLOBAL DRAMS

The whisky world has never been more diverse. In India, Indri (indri.in) continues to challenge perceptions of what a single malt can be, drawing on Himalayan foothills, indigenous six-row barley and a distinctive maturation environment to help fuel the country’s whisky renaissance. In Tasmania, Sullivans Cove (sullivanscove.com) has unveiled Navigator, a limited-edition 16-yearold expression inspired by Hobart’s historic waterfront and created with food, conversation and conviviality firmly in mind. Completing the trio, Loch Lomond (lochlomondwhiskies. com) is marking The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale with a pair of golf-inspired releases, including a 19-year-old single malt presented in striking vintage travel poster-style packaging. Together, they highlight the spirit’s enduring ability to blend heritage, craftsmanship and contemporary storytelling.

“The whisky world has never been more diverse”

WHERE JOURNEYS BEGIN

FROM CAMBODIA AND GREENLAND TO SAMOA AND SAUDI ARABIA, A WAVE OF AMBITIOUS AIRPORTS IS BRINGING ONCE-DISTANT ADVENTURES WITHIN EASIER REACH.

BY NIGEL TISDALL

Hot or cold? That’s often the first question for intrepid globetrotters looking to take advantage of new airports and their ultra-modern gateways to stimulating and far-flung experiences. If tropical warmth is a must, head for the twin-island nation of Samoa where a $4 million VIP lounge at Faleolo International Airport (samoaairports.com) – orginally built for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2024 – now beckons discerning travellers from all over the world. Once definitively remote, this emerging South Pacific hub is now within reach by way of direct flights from Auckland, Brisbane, Nadi (Fiji) and Honolulu. Offering a compelling fusion of superb beaches and volcanic landscapes, the nation offers visitors with a memorable fusion of natural wonders and traditional Polynesian culture.

On the other side of the world, Nuuk International Airport (airports.gl) unveiled a new terminal and extended runway in November 2024, enabling large aircraft to fly direct to the Greenland capital rather than into Kangerlussuaq, a former US military base 318km north. Mighty fjord cruising, helicopter sightseeing and Arctic-to-table dining are just some of the thrills to be experienced here, but – if your adventures can wait – hold out a little longer for the upcoming Ilulissat International Airport. Set to open in October, the entry-point to the vast World Heritage-listed glaciers and icebergs of Disko Bay will be accessible via a direct, five-hour flight from Copenhagen with Air Greenland.

For design aficionados, Foster + Partners’ $2 billion terminal at Techo International Airport (techoairport.com.kh) – 20km south

VERDANT ARRIVAL

This page: An expansive new gateway to Cambodia, Techo International Airport redefines the airport experience; below right: Foster + Partners’ design pairs monumental scale with elegant, climateresponsive architecture; below left: The country’s latest entry point blurs the boundaries between inside and out

of Phnom Penh – is setting a new benchmark for sustainable aviation. Six years in the making, it opened its doors last September and makes a bold architectural statement: an undulating roof held by structural “trees” with a 36-metre span and finished with 180 skylights to flood the interior with natural illumination. Its debut has already begun reshaping the Cambodian capital, with the arrival coinciding with a boost of riverside energy along the vibrant Chaktomuk Walk Street, a handful of new luxury hotels and the 2027 opening of the 227-room Pan Pacific Phnom Penh.

Another destination on the rise is Angola, where Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport opened in Luanda last October. Offering fast-track introduction to the

“Six years in the making, it opened its doors last September and makes a bold architectural statement”

“In the far north of the Kingdom, it connects travellers to a landscape of remarkable contrasts”

seventh largest country in Africa, it’s now served by major carriers including Air France, Lufthansa and Qatar Airways – but this trending Portuguese-speaking nation remains blissfully tourist-free despite being home to exhilarating sights like the thundering, 105m-drop Kalandula Falls and the elusive giant sable antelopes that roam Cangandala National Park. Also of note is Al-Jouf International Airport which is one of Saudi Arabia’s most intriguing new arrivals and a gateway to a region that calls out to the curious. Opened in February in the far north of the Kingdom, it connects travellers to a landscape of remarkable contrasts: the world’s largest olive farm (which serves as the backdrop to an annual festival every January) and the 6,000 year-old Al Rajajil Columns – towering, enigmatic standing stones that have been dubbed the “Saudi Stonehenge.”

In Australia, the brand-new Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (wsiairport.com.au) is due to open in October and will be a gamechanger for travel Down Under. Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and local firm COX Architecture, it will initially handle 10 million passengers a year and, unlike the current Sydney Airport, will have no curfew and will therefore operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Good reasons to book a flight to the Harbour City include the revitalised Sydney Fish Market which offers cooking classes and behind-the-scenes tours, while the forthcoming Powerhouse Parramatta, a riverside museum and exhibition venue is the largest cultural investment since the Sydney Opera House opened its doors in 1973. Named after Nancy-Bird Walton, a pioneering Australian aviator who earned her commercial pilot’s licence at the age of 19 and was still flying at the age of 90, this airport is set to carry the same bold energy its namesake embodied. “Keep on flying,” indeed.

TIME AND PLACE

A bold new aviation hub set to reshape Sydney’s global connections for decades to come, Western Sydney International Airport’s architecture will celebrate light, space and a sense of place

“This airport is set to carry the same bold energy its namesake embodied”

A VIEW LIKE NO OTHER

The 2028–2029 Voyage Collection from Regent

Seven Seas Cruises® offers guests immersive discovery, refined elegance and uncompromising luxury at sea

Whether you choose to step aboard the ultra-luxury travel leader’s newest ship, Seven Seas Prestige™, or one of her sophisticated older siblings, such as Seven Seas Grandeur® or Seven Seas Splendor®, you can rest assured that you’re about to embark on the journey of a lifetime. Offering discerning travellers over 230 new itineraries, 80 in-port overnight stays and 14 world-cruise overnight stays, the carefully curated 2028–2029 Voyage Collection invites every Regent guest to cruise in all-inclusive,

Refined, spacious and effortlessly elegant, Regent’s all-suite ships offer an unparalleled ocean experience

unrivalled luxury. Travellers can explore three new ports of call, whether they’re looking to immerse themselves in the 2026 European Capital of Culture, Oulu in Finland; or ease into a slower way of living as they weave their way around the cobbled streets of Šibenik in Croatia. For those seeking a refined escape of hidden gems and lesser-known creative wonders, Dundee in Scotland welcomes its visitors to the UNESCO City of Design by way of a world-class cultural scene and architecture that’s worthy of a double take. Spanning the globe, the 2028–2029 itineraries encompass a selection of destinations from the sun-soaked Caribbean to the tropical shorelines of Asia and the pastel-painted terraces of Europe’s most ethereal seaside escapes. With Regent, guests can look forward to truly immersive shore excursions at every port of call, thousands of which are included at no extra cost, while indulging themselves in unparalleled comfort along the way.

Unsurprisingly, there’s more to the 2028–2029 Voyage Collection than refined land experiences. In addition to its new immersive itineraries and exceptional overnight stays, this collection upholds Regent’s commitment to excellence with its signature all-suite, all-balcony accommodation for explorers to gaze upon the horizon in ultimate comfort. The new collection features three grand voyages and a 2029 world cruise that echo the elegance Regent is known for, as well as nine festive sailings that transform your surroundings into a wonderland on the water.

For a limited time, enjoy a low deposit of just 7.5% when you reserve a sailing from Regent’s 2028–2029 Voyage Collection before 8 July 2026. Visit RSSC.com/order-brochure to discover how you can Experience the Unrivalled® like never before. A REALM OF ITS OWN

TIMELY ARRIVALS

The year’s most significant launches at the annual Watches and Wonders fair in Switzerland were not always the loudest — but they revealed an industry becoming more confident, playful and technically ambitious, finds Chris Hall

Until recently, a new watch from Rolex (rolex.com) meant little more than microscopic changes to an existing model, and, if collectors were fortunate, a new dial colour. But in the last five years, the industry leader has embraced its flamboyant side as well as forging ahead with new technical developments, showing no sign of resting on its laurels. The biggest talking point this year was the Oyster Perpetual 36mm “Jubilee,” with a multicoloured logo print as expressive as a gem-set Daytona, yet far more readily embraced by connoisseurs. In contrast, the most impressive new model from a technical perspective was an unforeseen update to the Yacht-Master II, a watch that has never quite found a foothold amongst the Rolex crowd. Its countdown timer can be set for any duration between one and 10 minutes, and it remembers the previous setting after use, making it one of the cleverest watches announced this year – yet one most people have overlooked.

The insider buzz at Watches & Wonders, however, centred on another ingenious chronograph. The Parmigiani (parmigiani.com) Tonda PF Chronographe Mystérieux doesn’t appear to be a chronograph at all: an additional set of hands is hidden beneath the primary hour and minute display, emerging only at the press of the button before disappearing again when no longer needed. The elegance of such a visually simple concept, underpinned by remarkable engineering complexity, won the hearts of all who saw it – an appreciation deepened by the fact that the company is celebrating its 30th year in business.

SEVENTIES STYLE

Previous page: Vacheron Constantin’s Overseas Dual Time Cardinal Points also comes with a stainless steel bracelet; this page, top left: The Parmigiani Tonda PF Chronographe Mystérieux and Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control, top middle; all three embrace an aesthetic originally defined in the mid-1970s with sharp, integrated bracelets

“The elegance of such a visually simple concept, underpinned by remarkable engineering complexity, won the hearts of all who saw it”

MATERIAL GAINS

Top right: The purpose-built movement in the Ressence Type 11 improves the power reserve to 60 hours; left: Tudor’s Monarch plays homage to its history, but runs on a modern Master Chronometer movement, accurate to five seconds a day; bottom: H. Moser’s Streamliner Pump is cased in forged quartz fibre, a first for the brand

Young independent brands have never been so well represented, and another that stood out from the crowd was Belgian watchmaker Ressence (ressencewatches.com). With its Type 11, the haute horology brand introduces its first proprietary movement, having relied on readily-available ETA calibres since its inception in 2010. Founder Benoît Mintiens says the new movement represents the start of an entirely fresh chapter for the company and will eventually power every reference in its collection. As Ressence rolls out the mechanical update, Mintiens is improving each design –and the Type 11 is a sleeker, smoother version of its original Type 1 as a result.

Much of what impressed at the fair represented an evolution of existing designs, but in some cases, the change was transformative. Take Bulgari (bulgari.com), which downsized its Octo Finissimo automatic from 40mm to 37mm. It might not sound like much, but the difference is pronounced, placing one of the 21st century’s most impressive watches in front of an entirely new set of customers.

Elsewhere, Frederique Constant (frederiqueconstant.com) reduced the diameter of its tried-and-tested Manufacture Worldtimer and cleaned up its dial design. The result is something far more in tune with today’s tastes, and one of the only watches there that could truly be said to feel competitively priced, offering a prestige complication with an in-house movement for £4,395.

Value means different things in different contexts, however, and the £34,000 that Vacheron Constantin (vacheron-constantin.com) is charging for its new Overseas Dual Time Cardinal Points – a collection available in four different colourways – is probably undervalued if the initial reaction is anything to go by. Inspired by a limited edition produced in 2021 for mountaineer Cory Richards, the range (from a brand that rarely makes anything so colourful or so overtly sporty) is guaranteed to be oversubscribed for years to come.

While many brands chose to evolve existing collections, it was a strong year for new ideas. Tudor (tudorwatch.com) surprised us with the introduction of the Monarch – an unusual, faceted time-only model with an ‘error-proof’ dial that combines Roman and Arabic numerals, while Bremont (bremont.com) proved it can cater to serious collectors with the launch of a new-old-stock Valjoux 23-powered pilot’s chronograph. A prized vintage movement, the Altitude Chronograph Pulsograph Valjoux 23 looks and feels terrific to operate.

At the other end of the design spectrum sits H. Moser & Cie’s (h-moser.com) Streamliner Pump. A collaboration with Reebok that draws inspiration from the 1989 sneaker of the same name, the new take on the cultural icon is finished with a button that winds the watch when pushed, reminiscent of the original shoe that could be inflated in the same way. The fusion of popular culture and high-end watchmaking is a Moser speciality, and the watches – available in black or white – are as light and comfortable as the shoe itself.

The last word should probably go to Jaeger-LeCoultre (jaeger-lecoultre.com), which introduced a significantly upgraded Master Control model. Completely redesigned with a new integrated bracelet, the watch doesn’t necessarily do anything revolutionary, but adds up to more than the sum of its parts. Well-sized, beautifully detailed and, in today’s climate, not outrageously expensive for such a competentlyspecced movement from a prestige name, it might be the real star of the show once the noise around some of the more flamboyant releases subsides.

Sincerely Yours 80 Houndsditch, London, EC3A 7AB T: +44 (0) 20 7118 6888 enquiry.pplon@panpacific.com @panpacificlondon

Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award 2026

Japan’s ancient capital has long drawn travellers with its temples, gardens, teahouses and ritualised sense of beauty. But beyond the crowd lies a world shaped by artisans, designers, chefs and makers upholding the country’s timeless traditions in a modern age.

Danielle Demetriou reports

At first glance, Kyoto Station seems an unlikely gateway to Japan’s ancient imperial capital: a monumental expanse of steel and glass that hums with the flow of modern travellers. Yet Kyoto reveals its many sides only with time and patience. Encircled by mountains and rooted in millennia of history, this compact city is renowned for its temples and shrines alongside a world-class dining scene. Just over two hours from Tokyo by bullet train, the journey offers occasional glimpses of Mount Fuji (just be sure to find a seat on the right-hand side). Upon arrival, visitors who take a moment to step away from the more obvious tourist trails soon discover another side of Kyoto – one that is quieter, more intimate and refreshingly unhurried. The peaceful stillness of hidden artisan workshops. The ritual of a seasonal dinner in a renovated machiya townhouse. The avantgarde edge of a conceptual fashion boutique spanning a former atelier on a quiet residential street. An edgy local soba restaurant with standing counters crafted by contemporary artists. These are just some of the hidden – and quieter – highlights of Kyoto, a city long famed for balancing its ancient heritage with crafted creativity and a timeless sense of innovation.

WHERE TO EAT

Quietly spanning a wooden machiya townhouse near the greenery of Kyoto Imperial Palace is a hidden culinary gem: MOKO (moko-kyoto.com). Helmed by French chef Alexis Moko and his wife Ayaka, the Michelin-starred restaurant offers an intimate Kyoto dining experience that unfolds in a smoothly renovated space anchored by a central counter. Here, chefs expertly prepare and serve a seasonal modern take on French cuisine, drawing on

KYOTO,

QUIETLY

KYOTO À LA FRANÇAISE

Top: A restored machiya townhouse provides the understated backdrop to MOKO – one of Kyoto’s most exciting dining experiences

Above: Chef Alexis Moko remains unapologetically French in technique while using almost exclusively Japanese ingredients; Above right and below right: local produce and seasonal Japanese flavours shape every plate at MOKO

fresh local produce, including vegetables from nearby Ohara and carefully aged fish and meat. Recent dinner highlights ranged from Kyoto Ohara wild boar with Jerusalem artichoke and rainbow trout with radish, caviar and a scattering of flowers. Meanwhile, the scenic rear garden leads to the kura storehouse – home to an impressive collection of wines. The restaurant accepts babies and children, meaning its fine dining can be enjoyed by those of all ages. For a deeper immersion into Kyoto’s culinary heritage, reserve a table at Hyotei (hyotei.co.jp). Rooted in 400 years of history, the escapist traditional Japanese restaurant (which has three Michelin stars) and teahouse is wrapped in seasonally changing gardens with moss-covered stones and winding paths, just near the entrance of Nanzen-ji Temple. Perhaps surprisingly, it’s known for its soft-boiled eggs – a generations-old tradition from its founder that lives on today. Intricate kaiseki banquets offer a more poetic element after dark, while the restaurant is also famed for its breakfasts – rice porridge in the summer and quail porridge throughout winter. A more contemporary mood prevails at Suba. Picture raw ceramic counter blocks and industrial concrete floors instead of tatami mats and paper screens. Compact and contemporary, the standing-only restaurant serves up some of the most sought-after soba in town. A constant stream of visitors hover over a seasonal menu of tasty soba noodles, presented in handcrafted ceramic bowls. A personal favourite? Their cooling summertime special topped with fresh, finely sliced fig and sudachi citrus fruit.

WHAT TO DO

A linen noren curtain marks the threshold of POJ Studio (pojstudio.com), a serene space that seamlessly blends Japanese craftsmanship with sustainability and storytelling. Here, visitors can browse meticulously crafted homeware, immerse themselves in hands-on kintsugi classes or enjoy traditional shuro brush making workshops. Set in a quiet machiya townhouse in Gojo, POJ Studio’s ground-floor boutique showcases a curated selection of timeless Japanese creations – from

MADE TO LAST

Below, right and below right: POJ Studio preserves centuries-old Japanese techniques in a contemporary setting; Bottom: Kyoto Museum of Crafts and Design is a gateway to the artisans, skills and stories behind Kyoto’s enduring creative legacy

“The larger vision is a broader culture of repair – one that reconnects people with the objects they live with”

ceramics and metalwork to wooden stools. Upstairs, in-house workshops introduce visitors to the world of kintsugi: the ancient art of repairing broken ceramics using natural materials and gold. A guided journey into the world of perfectly imperfect beauty unfolds with a series of instudio kintsugi classes – ranging from one-hour introductions to two-day immersions. “Kintsugi may be the entry point,” says founder Tina Koyama. “But the larger vision is a broader culture of repair – one that reconnects people with the objects they live with and extends the life of materials and craftsmanship.” The same spirit of upholding traditional techniques continues at Kyo Amahare (kyo.amahare.jp). Ceramic plates. Hand-shaped chopsticks. Sake jugs. Paper trays. A cornucopia of objects for daily life, handmade by a curated selection of Japanese artisans, are scattered throughout Kyo Amahare, a beauty-packed boutique which flows through the layered depth of a renovated 130-year-old machiya. Artworks are also regularly exhibited (don’t miss the gallery upstairs, accessible via a washiwrapped staircase). Another highlight? Tea. At the rear of the garden is the atmospheric intimacy of Kyo Teahouse (Sabo Kyo), in a renovated kura storehouse – where Japanese teas are paired with seasonal sweets and crafted tools. Inspired to create something of your own? Make your way to Zuikou Kiyomizudera Studio (taiken-kiyomizu.com). Join a pottery class at Zuikou Gama, which dates back to 1771. Inside its renovated Kiyomizudera studio – just a stone’s throw from the iconic Yasaka Pagoda – visitors can enjoy hands-on English classes that span from 20 minutes to an hour. After finishing your creation, staff glaze and fire the vessels before shipping them to you at home.

WHERE TO SHOP

Not a typical clothing store, Stactile (stactile-kyoto.com) is progressive, unexpected – and a perfect expression of contemporary creative Kyoto. A carefully considered concept space that’s home to a selection of Japanese fashion brands, the store’s location is key: it sits on a quiet residential street in Nishijin, the traditional textile district and a world away from

the downtown tourism crowds. It spans a cavernous former workshop for kumihimo (traditional braided cords), where its industrial-edged renovation balances the original high timber trusses and earthen walls with minimal lines of concrete and a monolithic counter in reflective red lacquer. Visitors will also find a large garden, complete with a long dining table that always appears ready for a party (a permanent installation) plus a café in the rafters. Led by the curatorial vision of local creative Masakazu Kuroda, the space blurs the boundaries between art and fashion, creativity and everyday life. Highlights include taking in pieces by Japanese brands TOGA, BED j.w. FORD and RAINMAKER, while exploring the unexpected layers of the space itself. “Our approach has never been limited to the idea of ‘fashion first,’” Kuroda explains. “This space was conceived around ideas of quiet beauty and deep experience.” For a different perspective on Kyoto’s creative energy, make your way to Issey Miyake (isseymiyake.com). Set within a meticulously restored 140-yearold machiya townhouse, the brand’s flagship Kyoto store is serene, quiet and atmospheric. The historic structure serves as the backdrop for rainbow-bright bursts of colour, courtesy of pieces from the Issey Miyake Men’s collection and the brand’s signature Bao Bao bags. Wander into the back garden and discover, among a sea of grey pebbles, a stone kura storehouse, transformed into a small gallery – with regular exhibitions offering a glimpse into Issey Miyake’s creative world. The conversation between craftsmanship and daily life continues at D&Department Kyoto (d-department.com). A temple might not sound like the obvious place to head for a retail fix – unless, of course, you happen to find yourself in Kyoto. Bukkō-ji, a 14th-century temple just south of Shijo-Karasuma in downtown Kyoto, is home to D&Department’s concept store, showcasing a covetable selection of timeless and authentic Japanese offerings – from chopsticks and kettles to jewellery. Best of all? After shopping, visit the nearby d Shokudo, a café nestled inside the temple, to enjoy an enticing, home-cooked Japanese lunch or to pause and reflect with comforting tea and sweets.

WHERE TO STAY

In a city defined by tradition, one address is writing its own story

AURBAN HERITAGE

Above: A bridge between Kyoto’s contemporary creative scene and its artisanal history, Stactile gives visitors a glimpse of both

sense of stillness defines the arrival experience at Capella Kyoto (capellahotels. com), where a journey through layers of inner spaces and paper screens, lined with contemporary craftworks, leads into its heart. Positioned just next to Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, Kennin-ji, in the Miyagawa-chō district, the luxury Singapore brand’s Japan debut is a masterclass in quiet luxury, with Kengo Kuma’s low-rise architecture designed to blend into the surrounding cityscape. Featuring traditional details, the interiors by Brewin Design Office offer a soothing space reminiscent of a private machiya residence. Home to an inner garden with a scene-stealing cherry blossom tree, 89 guest rooms (picture carpets marked with tatami lines, oak furniture and calligraphic woven panels above the bed) and six onsen suites. A highlight among a string of food outlets is SoNoMa restaurant by SingleThread, where Californian influences meet Kyoto’s seasonal ingredients across a 12seat counter and lounge bar. Both here and in the quieter, lesser-known corners of the city, the past and present do not compete for attention – they coexist with a quiet confidence that is uniquely Kyoto.

HUSHED HIDEAWAY

Above: Natural materials and artisanal details define Capella Kyoto’s interiors; Above left: Japanese ingredients and refined mixology come together after dark; Left: Set in historic Miyagawachō, Capella Kyoto offers a refined retreat in a quiet district rooted in heritage

K EMPIN SK I PALACE ENGELBE R G: WHE R E S OUL MEET S S UMMIT

Defining the Art of Raw Luxury

In a world of constant motion, Kempinski Palace Engelberg offers an extraordinary return to what is essential. Located just 75 minutes from Zurich, this Five-Star superior architectural masterpiece has been meticulously reimagined as a sanctuary of understated grandeur. It is a place where the historic heritage of the Belle Époque meets a modern, cozy soul – a grounded, authentic hospitality that serves as the refined gateway to the „Raw Luxury“ of the surrounding nature.

A Landscape of Vitality

As Central Switzerland’s largest summer and winter holiday destination, Engelberg is a landscape of profound energy. The region is home to renowned ‘Kraftorte’ – natural power spots – where dramatic waterfalls and ancient rock formations evoke primal wonder. Guests are invited to immerse their senses in this raw, high-alpine vitality: whether finding focus on the emerald fairways of the 18-hole golf course,

exploring the valley by mountain bike, or embarking on the scenic Four Lakes Hike, the journey is one of both physical movement and profound inner clarity. Sanctuaries for the Senses

The restoration continues at Kempinski The Spa. Perched on the rooftop, this sanctuary is designed to harmonize the mind and body. Whether floating in the glass-framed infinity pool or unwinding in the warmth of the saunas and steam bath, the experience is defined by a panoramic dialogue with the surrounding peaks. Bespoke treatments offer a final, transformative touch, ensuring a deep and lasting sense of well-being.

The culinary narrative is equally evocative. Days begin with a healthy power breakfast at Cattani Restaurant, where Mediterranean-inspired flair meets the finest Swiss products. The experience evolves through sundrenched terraces, seasonal pop-up concepts, and elegant Afternoon Tea in the Wintergarden. As evening falls, The Palace Bar remains the village’s most vivid venue for live music and expertly crafted cocktails.

An Icon Reimagined: The TITLIS Tower

High above the valley, the skyline has gained a new, avant-garde silhouette. Opening in early June 2026, the TITLIS Tower is a 70-metre masterpiece of glass and geometry. Designed by the world-renowned Herzog & de Meuron, the tower evolves the summit into a landmark of contemporary design.

Reached via the Rotair – the world’s first revolving cable car – the tower’s horizontal volumes are fully glazed. These house a restaurant and a bar, as well as the world’s highest Rolex boutique, while the Horizon Deck viewing platform offers 360-degree vistas.

Together with the Cliff Walk suspension bridge, it represents a striking union of architectural innovation and the raw, unyielding power of the glacier.

From the high-altitude views of the Titlis to the warm, modern elegance of your suite, Kempinski Palace Engelberg remains an alpine original - a destination where history, nature and contemporary luxury converge into one unforgettable experience. To mark the Fifth Anniversary in June 2026, a curated offer will celebrate this milestone from April through June.

Kempinski Palace Engelberg

Dorfstrasse 40 · 6390 Engelberg

Switzerland T +41 41 639 75 75

reservation.engelberg@kempinski.com kempinski.com/engelberg

T HE

AZURE APPETITE

From revived institutions in Cannes to boundary- pushing kitchens in Nice, the Côte d’Azur is proving there’s far more to the region than beach clubs and rosé. By Lanie Goodman

CULINARY RENAISSANCE

Previous page: Magma’s dishes reflect the elemental force that inspired the restaurant’s name

Below: Il Grande Palm Beach is among the Riviera’s most coveted new tables; below far right: Sea views at Tetou; below middle: Chef Samuel Victori brings creativity and precision to every Magma plate; bottom right: A tribute to Italy’s beloved nonnas, Tina Trattoria celebrates simple ingredients and soulful cooking; right: Refined Riviera dining with a distinctly South African soul, courtesy of Le Bistrot de JAN

Picasso came for the bouillabaisse; Francis Picabia once traded paintings for dinner. After years of closure, renowned Riviera seafood institution Tetou (tetou-restaurant.com) has reopened at Cannes’ Pointe Croisette, reviving one of the Côte d’Azur’s most storied tables. Founded in 1917 by fisherman Ernest “Tetou” Cirio, the restaurant built its reputation on sprawling platters of Mediterranean fish, grilled spiny lobster and the legendary fish soup that drew generations of artists, actors and film-festival regulars to Golfe-Juan. After a languorous lunch, visitors would lounge at their beach club while gazing upon the Lérins Islands.

At the reborn Palm Beach Cannes (palmbeach-cannes.com) – once the Riviera playground for late-night glamour, hosting everything from cabaret and casino nights to glittering galas – Il Grande Palm Beach (ilgrandepalmbeach.com) brings a touch of cinematic Italian flair. Conceived by French-Mexican architect and design darling Hugo Toro, the restaurant channels the hedonism of 1960s Italy through deep red hues, Murano chandeliers and candlelit drama. Chef Yiannis Kioroglou’s menu matches the mood with truffle arancini, veal scaloppine al limone and rich pappardelle ai funghi finished with parmesan and wild mushrooms. After dinner, slip through the hidden door and find yourself at FLASH (flashcannes.com), a secretive speakeasy that serves agave cocktails under soft amber lights.

In Nice, the port has emerged as the city’s most dynamic dining quarter, where Mediterranean traditions

“Slip through the hidden door and find yourself at a secretive speakeasy”

PERSPECTIVES

FRESH

Below left: Zeniro’s interiors balance Mediterranean warmth with contemporary elegance; below middle: Chef Selim M’Nasri brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Epicentre’s evolving culinary identity; bottom right: From its terrace, Anantara Plaza Nice offers sweeping views across the Baie des Anges and the Mediterranean beyond

meet global influences. With its zinc-topped bar, candlelit tables and deep forest-green walls, Le Bistrot de JAN (janonline.com), beside Michelin-starred JAN, feels as though it were lifted from another era. Here, chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen pairs French classics like sole meunière with the nostalgic South African dishes of his childhood – from lentil bobotie to creamy chicken pot pie with truffle sauce and malva pudding – all of which are inspired by his grandmother’s recipes.

In this corner of Nice, memories of long family meals run deep: a few steps away, Tina Trattoria (tinatrattoria.com) is where Michelin-starred Argentineborn chefs Florencia Montes and Lorenzo Ragni –who opened this eatery down the street from Onice (restaurantonice.com) – revisit the recipes of their Italian grandmothers with a more modern approach and the freshest ingredients from Piedmont. Expect black-andwhite photographs of Italian screen idols and a cosy neighbourhood atmosphere. Try the vitello tonnato, the Milanese risotto or the long-simmered ossobuco, but don’t decline the homemade stracciatella ice cream and featherlight tiramisu.

Char, smoke and flame define the menu at Magma (lesagitateurs.com), a pocket-sized restaurant with an open kitchen and lava-red interior, where Michelin-starred chefs Les Agitateurs take things one step further with Asian-inspired small plates, fresh market produce, live fire cooking and an infusion of spices. The volcano motif includes everything from barbecued carrots in a curry

“An intimate bistro recently awarded a Michelin star, it’s led by chef Sélim M’Nasri, who orchestrates a sevencourse ‘surprise’ tasting menu every night”

sauce and caramelized spicy duck with nems to desserts like vanilla crème brulée with miso. The nearby Cagnard (lecagnard.fr) – the chefs’ fourth restaurant – will soon offer a contemporary interpretation of traditional Niçois recipes. For a more adventurous palate, head to Epicentre (restaurant-epicentre.com). An intimate bistro recently awarded a Michelin star, it’s led by chef Sélim M’Nasri, who orchestrates a seven-course “surprise” tasting menu every night. From the open kitchen emerges exquisitely prepared local fish and vegetables, with dishes shaped by a carefully curated collection of spices, from green cardamom to black lemon. And for a Japanese twist on Provençal flavours, Zenirō (zenirorestaurants.com), tucked behind Place Garibaldi, combines a sleek urban aesthetic with a rooftop terrace that comes alive during summer evenings. Try the Omakase menu, centred on black cod glazed with orange miso, and an apricot-and-lavender baba for dessert.

After exploring the Riviera’s evolved eateries, the Anantara Plaza Nice (anantara.com) – a restored luxe hotel, once a jewel box Belle Époque landmark – offers a refined retreat. Set atop the iconic hotel, SEEN by Oliver (seennice.com) occupies one of the city’s most coveted rooftop settings. Serving everything from oysters and beef Wagyu to sushi and lobster linguine, the menu conveys the effortless indulgence of Nice’s eclectic dining scene.

A Constellation of Discovery

Nestled amidst the serene hills of the Algarve’s Barrocal region, Viceroy at Ombria Algarve offers a luxurious retreat that harmoniously blends with nature. This newly unveiled five-star resort presents an authentic Portuguese experience, far removed from the bustling coastal crowds, bringing new life to the region’s inland charm.

Recently inaugurated in the picturesque village of Tôr, near Loulé, the resort stands out for its fusion of contemporary elegance with the character of a traditional Algarvean hilltop village.

Home to 76 rooms and suites, as well as 65 branded residences, the hotel offers a distinctive accommodation experience, enhanced by refined culinary offerings that celebrate the region’s ingredients and heritage.

At the heart of the resort’s central square is Solalua, the culinary crown jewel, where the menu pays homage to the land and sea through a modern interpretation of southern Portuguese flavours. Just next door, Café Central offers a relaxed setting for light bites, fresh pastries and artisanal snacks — the perfect invitation for both guests and passersby to unwind in comfort.

Open to the public, the THE SPA by Viceroy at Ombria Algaver is a 2,000m² sanctuary of wellness, designed to foster reconnection — with oneself, with others, and with the surrounding nature. Featuring holistic treatments, an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and panoramic treatment rooms, the spa offers a deeply restorative experience in tune with the calm of the landscape.

For golf enthusiasts, the 18-hole course winds gently through the natural terrain, blending seamlessly with the surroundings while delivering both challenge and breathtaking scenery.

Discover a new luxury destination in the Algarve where countryside tranquility meets refined sophistication and world-class service.

NIYAMA PRIVATE ISLANDS MALDIVES Unveils

EVOLVED AND MORE TANTALISING THAN EVER

EVOLVED AND MORE TANTALISING THAN EVER

Niyama Private Islands Maldives is proud to reveal its THIS IS NIYAMA transformation - extraordinary with fully refurbished villas and facilities, heightened levels of luxury, new experiences that immerse guests in all the beauty of the Maldives, and a newfound sense of freedom - an invitation for guests to live life on their own terms, unscripted and unbound.

Niyama Private Islands Maldives is proud to reveal its THIS IS NIYAMA transformation - extraordinary with fully refurbished villas and facilities, heightened levels of luxury, new experiences that immerse guests in all the beauty of the Maldives, and a newfound sense of freedom - an invitation for guests to live life on their own terms, unscripted and unbound.

Now, it ups the ante, as e ortless luxury is draped with the avant garde, the surreal, the one of a kind.

Now, it ups the ante, as e ortless luxury is draped with the avant garde, the surreal, the one of a kind.

The new Niyama sees the stylish and thoughtful evolution of the resort’s villas, restaurants and leisure facilities across twin islands Play and Chill, infusing each with an energy uniquely Niyama.

The new Niyama sees the stylish and thoughtful evolution of the resort’s villas, restaurants and leisure facilities across twin islands Play and Chill, infusing each with an energy uniquely Niyama.

WHITE LOTUS

With the Emeya, the iconic British marque trades minimalist sports-car purity for all-electric grand touring luxury – and the result is far more convincing than anyone expected. Adam Hay-Nicholls gets behind the wheel

RAISING THE BAR

As well as a minimalist interior, the Emeya boasts the thinnest RGB dynamic LED rear light bar ever placed onto a production car

This is a Lotus unlike any Lotus you might have driven before. For more than seven decades, the British firm held a reputation for building very light and delicate cars that handled beautifully but were rather badly built. Its Norfolk factory smelled overwhelmingly of glue, and things had a habit of falling off. There’s an old industry joke: what does L.O.T.U.S stand for? Lots of trouble, usually serious. Yet the Lotus Emeya is as wellbuilt as a Mercedes-Benz. Both the design and finish are light-years ahead of anything else we’ve seen with Colin Chapman’s initials stamped on it. Compared to this, an Elise might as well be a skip.

Chapman, whose engineering genius helped Lotus secure multiple Formula One drivers’ and constructors’ World Championships between 1963 and 1978, had a central philosophy: simplify, then add lightness. I wonder what he would make of the four-door all-electric Emeya, which tips the scales at 2,580kg. That’s almost eight times the weight of a Series 1 Lotus Seven. Chapman suffered a fatal heart attack in 1982. If you approach his grave, one suspects you may detect a spinning sound.

However, the Emeya is as impressive as it is surprising. It’s one of the few EVs that looks more expensive than it is. It’s priced from £84,990 in the UK, which undercuts the Porsche Taycan. Those slender, glowering running lights and thick fins in the front air dam give it a menacing presence. Despite no less than 13 Lotus logos being featured, you’ll probably have to explain to people what it is. The gorgeous materials and design are every bit the

equal of the Taycan’s, and – because it’s much rarer – it’s the more eye-catching of the two, both inside and out.

While the proportions look strangely elongated in photos (it’s over five metres long and two metres wide), it’s exceptionally sleek and finished with clever little details. From the driver’s seat, the Emeya’s functionality relies too much on the touchscreen and some of the features feel unnecessary, but the UX system doesn’t miss a beat thanks to its 15.6-inch OLED screen running the fastest processes in the automotive world. The steering wheel in particular looks and feels great. There’s loads of space inside. The boot is cavernous (509 litres), and the rear seats would comfortably accommodate three NBA players. The cabin is airy and less austere than the competition. It is so roomy, you may wish to choose it over an S-Class or 7-Series, seriously.

Lotus isn’t the first exotic brand to move from the two-seat sports car market into family-sized four-door GTs. This, electrified, is where the market has gone. As a result, there’s little Lotus DNA here. It’s not built in Hethel, Norfolk, you’ll be shocked to hear, but in Wuhan, China, in a dedicated facility overseen by parent company Geely (which also owns Volvo, Polestar, Smart and the company that builds London’s black cabs). As a result of its Geelybacked Chinese development, the Emeya is equipped with LiDAR and advanced driver assistance systems, though functionality is limited to Level 2 autonomy in Europe –adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, plus a chorus of warning bongs you’ll need to silence via the touchscreen.

The Emeya 600 Sport SE tested by Ultratravel costs £106,219. For that, you get 603bhp and 710Nm of torque from motors front and rear, 0-62mph in 4.15 seconds and a top speed of 155mph. The range is approximately 360 miles, and it can charge its battery from 10-80% in just 14 minutes. It’s also got dual-chamber air suspension and self-closing doors. The Sport SE spec also comes with big wheels, ventilated massage seats, active aerodynamics, rear-wheel steering, an electrochromic panoramic roof, an incredible 23-speaker stereo and Lotus’s intelligent anti-roll control.

Despite its battery-necessitated girth, the Emeya does a very good job of disguising this in the corners. So does the Taycan. Lotus has always been renowned for its chassis tuning and damping, and it has done its best here, but there’s no doubt the result is less involving and exciting than its internal combustion counterparts. Unlike the Taycan, it hasn’t been given a gimmicky faux-engine soundtrack, which means you’ll sometimes find yourself approaching corners a little faster than you realised. It’ll bolt from 50-75mph in less than two seconds, but the overall driving experience is comfortable and serene as opposed to sporty. Think Gulfstream rather than a fighter jet.

If you did a DNA test of the Emeya, the results would come back saying its engineering is unmistakably Chinese rather than Chapman-era British. It wears the badges and starts with an E, but that’s where the bloodline to the Elan, Esprit and Elise runs out. However, it’s a stunningly well-designed, expertly engineered four-door luxury GT that feels more stylish and individual than its rivals (lotuscars.com)

Your key to the most exclusive hotels, resorts and palaces worldwide.

Ultratravel Collection is where GHA DISCOVERY brings together its most exceptional stays, carefully chosen for travellers who know exactly what they like, and refuse to settle for almost.

Expect luxury that goes well beyond the basics. Remarkable settings. Dining shaped by the local landscape. Spa and leisure experiences designed to restore, not just impress. Cultural access that feels personal, not packaged. Quiet elegance, impeccable service, and detail that never asks for attention because it never misses.

All with GHA DISCOVERY generous rewards and exclusive privileges.