In the hushed passageways of meticulously restored riads, sun-kissed palazzos, and centuries-old kasbahs, something more profound than mere architecture lingers. A whisper of memory. A trace of spirit. In today's global real estate market, these historical homes are no longer just places to stay—they're passports to the past. The Allure of old Walls Across Marrakech, Palermo, Oaxaca, and beyond, a new generation of buyers is falling in love with old walls, not for their perfection, but for their patina. For the stories they tell. But when a traveler becomes an owner—when heritage be…

 Every so often, the cosmos offers a reason to stop, look up, and feel small in the most magnificent way. In 2026 and 2027, two total solar eclipses will sweep across some of the world’s most storied destinations — from the sun-drenched plains of Spain to the temple-lined banks of the Nile. These aren’t just astronomical events; they’re invitations to experience light and time differently, to stand in ancient lands as day turns briefly into night. Whether you're drawn by science, spirituality, or sheer spectacle, this is your chance to plan a journey not just around the globe — but around the…

Hidden just off the coast of Abu Dhabi lies a sanctuary that defies expectations—Sir Bani Yas Island. Often overshadowed by the UAE’s skyscraper skyline, this island is a reminder that true luxury doesn't always wear a tuxedo—it sometimes comes dressed in acacia trees, giraffes, and barefoot serenity. For the discerning traveler looking to unplug without compromising comfort, Sir Bani Yas offers a retreat where sustainability and sophistication coexist in harmony. This isn’t just another island resort. It’s a living, breathing nature reserve, born of a visionary’s dream and grown into a fu…

Dubai’s Sustainability Pivot: More Than Just Image Dubai’s real estate story is evolving fast. Known for its spectacular skyscrapers and luxury lifestyle, the city is now reshaping its identity with a surprising new headline: sustainability. Behind the scenes, the emirate is working to become a global leader in eco-conscious urban development. Guided by the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, the city is transforming its vision into reality — dedicating 60% of its land to green and natural spaces and redefining what luxury living means in the Gulf. What’s emerging is a new standard of real estat…

In a region known for rapid urban expansion and striking skylines, it’s easy to overlook the silent stewards of the natural world. Yet beneath the canopy of Ghaf trees and among the dunes of Abu Dhabi’s desert parks, a different kind of ambition is at work—one that doesn’t build upward, but nurtures outward. Welcome to Barari Natural Resources, where environmental preservation meets visionary planning in the unique and challenging context of the UAE's arid environment. A Mission Rooted in Stewardship Established by the Government of Abu Dhabi, Barari Natural Resources (BNR) manages o…

Talking about Norway means talking about one of the most unique and fascinating destinations in Europe. A country where northern lights light up the skies, where fjords cut deep into the land like giant crystal-filled blades, and where quality of life is not just a promise but a daily reality. Norway not only dazzles with postcard landscapes; it also surprises with a modern, sustainable society deeply connected to nature. Traveling to Norway means immersing yourself in a culture that values balance, harmony, and respect for the environment. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, ch…

In a fast-moving world that often confuses luxury with depth, Bhutan gently reminds us what true richness feels like. Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, this tiny kingdom may be small in size, but its spiritual presence is vast. Known as “The Land of Smiles”, Bhutan isn’t just another pin on a spiritual traveler’s map. It’s a breathing, prayer-flag-draped meditation in motion—a country where spirituality isn’t curated for tourists, it’s simply how life is lived. Here, the mountains are sacred, the pace is intentional, and Gross National Happiness takes precedence over economic growth. In Bh…

It all started over thirty years ago when De Niro stepped foot in Matsuhisa restaurant in Los Angeles and found inspiration to establish a restaurant in New York. This vision became reality in 1994 with Nobu in Tribeca. The venture instantly became the hottest restaurant in the city, if not in the country. From there, things continued to grow, and what began as a shared love of food soon expanded into the hotel business. There is no passion to be found playing small in settling for a life that is less than the one you're capable of living. Nelson Mandela They say that passion is t…

There was once a place where the wind danced unchallenged across endless dunes, where silence reigned at dusk, and the horizon shimmered with heat and solitude. That place was Dubai—a humble desert outpost cradled by the Arabian Gulf, defined not by what it was but by what it dreamed to become. Today, that land glitters beneath the sun with steel, glass, and boundless possibility. Dubai is no longer just a place on the map—it is a global symbol of ambition, vision, and human tenacity triumphing over limitation. Where some see emptiness, visionaries see a canvas. Dubai is proof that eve…

Built into the medieval walls of Marrakech and made up of 53 luxurious riads, each with its own unique charm, the Royal Mansour is not just another luxury hotel in Morocco; it is a philosophy, a feeling, and a state of mind. The hotel not only captures the essence of Morocco but is also a place of memorable moments simply because they break the ordinary and open up the possibility of chance encounters with a different version of yourself. Royal Mansour holds a special place in my heart.  Your room here is not just a traditional hotel room but your little world. Spread over three f…

This is the essence of Hotel The Moore, an intimate 81-room boutique nestled in the heart of Chelsea, one of New York City's most dynamic neighborhoods. Designed by the talented Vanessa Guildford, the hotel pays homage to the legacy of poet Clement Clarke Moore, whose former residence stood on this very site.  With a minimalist yet sophisticated design, The Moore feels as much like home as it does a sanctuary. Its thoughtful design, a unique blend of simplicity and modern comforts, offers a perfect balance of relaxation and elegance. With their single queen beds…

At Four Seasons Marrakech, this art is shaped by a steadfast commitment to service excellence, a passion for creating memorable experiences, and a natural instinct to connect with its guests. “It is the human connection that makes the guest experience extraordinary.” People have always needed to travel. Whether to discover and explore new lands, seek spiritual enlightenment, or an opportunity to disconnect, they are all searching for something that will stay with them forever,  an experience that can be life-changing. Located between the fabled Medina of the Red City and t…

Located just outside the city walls and immersed between lush palm groves, blue skies, and beautiful views of the Atlas mountains, Selman Marrakech is a place like no other.  The hotel is a family-owned palace of distinct, alluring charm, timeless elegance, and harmony, where the love for hospitality and the passion for Arabian horse breeding runs deep in the veins. Owners Saida and Abdeslam Bennani Smires fulfilled their grandfather's dream of creating a successful business in his hometown. Selman Marrakech bears the prestigious signature of French architect Jacques Garc…

This hidden gem, will capture you with its timeless beauty, authentic soul, and inviting atmosphere. Everything at La Sultana tells the tale of Morocco, whether embedded in the architectural details, the hospitality, the cuisine, or the Argan-infused spa. Primely located inside the royal quarter of the Kasbah in the Medina—in the ‘golden triangle' between the Royal Palace and the Saadian Tombs—La Sultana consists of five blissfully quiet riads encompassing 28 rooms, all of them enriched by artworks and decorated in a different style signifying various historical periods. A r…

In the verdant hills of Umbria, where mist curls through vineyards and time walks at a gentler pace, lies a village unlike any other — part sanctuary, part atelier, and entirely unforgettable. Most travelers to Italy flock to the grand halls of Florence, the canals of Venice, or the drama of Rome. But just outside Perugia, nestled amid olive groves and golden fields, there exists a place that defies the usual itinerary: Solomeo — a tiny medieval hamlet, a hidden gem, brought back to life by one of Italy's most quietly influential visionaries. This is not merely a story of restoration, b…

Designed with a strong emphasis on the four elements—air, water, fire, and earth—Mandarin Oriental Marrakech is a mesmerizing place that captures all your senses, filling you with so much joy of living and emotion that you never want to leave.  I never wanted to leave my “room” except to take an early morning walk to enjoy its stunning environment, eager to soak it all up. Nestled in 20 hectares of olive groves and lush gardens dotted with pools and waterworks, palm trees that mingle with bamboo, and filled with the scent of a myriad of different flowers, including roses, jas…

Housed in a Romanesque Revival building from 1890 at the corner of Mercer and Prince Streets in Soho, Hotel The Mercer is in one of the buzziest and best Manhattan locations, abounding with luxury boutiques, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. Discreet, iconic, and unapologetically chic, this gem plays host to famous guests and elite travelers. Behind its brick façade are 61 rooms of quiet rebellion—airy, artful, achingly intentional. The design is a testament to the hotel's unique character, with lofted ceilings, linen beds, and light that seems to be frozen in a film still…

From all-expenses-paid beach getaways to immersive cultural adventures abroad, travel rewards are transforming how organizations recognize achievement and inspire motivation. More than just perks, these unforgettable journeys are emerging as strategic tools for driving engagement and boosting performance and team spirit, fostering customer loyalty, and creating brand awareness. Travel incentive trips have a long-term impact on building high-performing teams.  So, why are more companies trading cubicles for coastlines when it comes to employee incentives? Let's take off and explore. It i…

In today's experience-focused world, where it is a daunting challenge for hotel companies to differentiate themselves, the Andaz brand makes its mark in a crowded marketplace. Getting its name from a Hindi word meaning “personal style,” Andaz celebrates the individuality of every guest and the uniqueness of its properties while providing an excellent value proposition.    Global in scale, but local in perspective Located in lively urban neighborhoods and leisure destinations, Andaz hotels are boutique facilities unique in design and amenities. They are characterized…

Dubai, UAE, 3 March 2025: Emirates, the world's largest international airline, is set to strengthen its presence across Asia by launching daily non-stop flights between Dubai and Shenzhen from 1 July 2025*. The airline will also introduce four weekly services to Da Nang on 2 June and three weekly flights to Siem Reap from 3 June, connecting both cities via Bangkok. The addition of Shenzhen, Da Nang, and Siem Reap strategically positions Emirates ahead of the curve with the largest and most diversified route network of any non-Asian airline in East Asia, offering 269 flights per week from D…

But while thousands of music lovers come here every year to dance and party like there is no tomorrow, many visitors come to the island to connect with nature and to experience its laid-back, Bohemian atmosphere. Beyond the dance beats and beaches, tucked away on the peaceful northern tip of Ibiza, lies a place where you can step back from the demands of everyday life, re-energize and reset.  Its location, Cala Xarraca, is a secluded slice of paradise, surrounded by lush green pine forests dotted with white houses, rugged red cliffs, and rocky pathways. Six Senses Ibiza is a…

So many of us are in search of it, whether it be taking a moment to enjoy an al fresco coffee on a sunny day, sitting down to a candlelight dinner for two, or escaping on an extravagant holiday with no luxury spared. And there is no better time to pursue La Dolce Vita than in the summer when long days and balmy temperatures make the search for happiness so much easier to fulfill. But the summer is not the only ingredient you need. Location is everything, and of all the places I have traveled to in search of the good life, Italy's Amalfi Coast fits the bill like none other. The Amalfi Co…

For many, its allure is probably linked to a collective imagination in which the stories of the “Thousand and One Nights” from childhood memories are interwoven. For others, it is the place that captures all the senses, seduces you with its intimate charms, strikes you with its shimmering colors and the intoxicating fragrance of spices that fill the air, and transports you with the chanting of the daily Muslim call to prayer and keeps you coming back for more.   The legendary fashion designer Yves St Laurent considered Marrakech the “Venice of Morocco, a place out of time”. H…

Formentera’s allure lies in its unique beauty, a blend of simplicity, peace, and harmony with nature. With unspoiled landscapes, sun-kissed paths, and crystalline waters, the island beckons soul-seekers to reconnect with nature and their inner selves. “Small islands are geographically pleasing, appealing to a human disposition towards ‘containedness.' It is possible to visualize, in satisfying detail, the coastline of an island, to know where it begins and ends, to picture where you are spatially at a given point in time.” Pam Allen There are no airports here. No sprawling resort…

Masterfully blending Baroque grandeur with theatrical flair, L'Oscar London will astound you. Its design is a unique blend of seductive, unconventional, and unapologetically opulent elements, making it a standout masterpiece by celebrated French architect Jacques Garcia. His signature touch, also gracing icons like Hôtel Costes in Paris, La Mamounia in Marrakech, and New York's NoMad, is evident in every corner of L'Oscar London.Once a 19th-century Baptist church, the building has been transformed into a temple of indulgence, a metamorphosis that will leave you intrigued and amazed. Garci…

For anyone dreaming of the day when the love of their life says “I do,” the institution of marriage still holds a strong fascination. In recent years, the legalization of same-sex marriage in many countries has meant that the LGBT community can now plan romantic weddings like never before. At present, sixteen countries worldwide allow same-sex marriage, along with seventeen of the US states. So let's get all romantic and look at some of the world's most romantic destinations to tie the knot for a gay wedding. The power of love is that it sees all people. San Francisco, Califo…

Set amidst  65 acres of lush gardens along one kilometer of private coastline, the spectacular Royal Mirage resembles an Arabian palace from the Thousand and One Nights book.  As you step into its palm-lined driveway, you're immediately transported into a dream turned real. The architecture, a testament to the region's rich past, is a captivating blend of domes, archways, hand-carved wooden screens, and candle-lit courtyards. This regal yet intimate space provides a stunning backdrop for your photos, leaving you in awe of its unique design.  A Sense of Place The ho…

Chedi Al Bait, a jewel of the Emirates, is GHM Hotel Group's newest destination for a dreamlike escape beyond compare. Once abandoned and lost to the world outside, the Al Bait Sharjah, now the Chedi Al Bait, has been beautifully restored into a boutique resort. Meaning ‘The Home,' the hotel is part of the UAE's preservation project called “Heart of Sharjah.” It is located in Sharjah's cultural heart, making it its most astonishing resort. The Chedi Al Bait is a unique property built on the original foundations of old 19th-century coral stone houses. It features historical pathways to souq…

Amid the beautiful Myeik Archipelago, a cluster of 800 islands off the southernmost tip of Myanmar, you will find the perfect place to unplug and zone out. Intimate, unpretentious, and luxurious, the privately owned Wa Ale hotel sits in a beautiful protected cove, overlooking a pristine beach and majestic rock formations. It was entirely built with reclaimed and sustainably sourced materials, ensuring an exclusive and unique experience for its guests. The tented villas have acres of living space, private teak terraces, king-size canopy beds, and outdoor showers, and they blend in seaml…

Filled with character and opportunities to experience all that is genuine and authentic, the 17-acre estate is conveniently located just one hour from Lisbon. It's an area home to Portugal's best beaches and unspoiled nature, making it the perfect escape from the city. Stretching across several buildings, the Main House, the Guest House, and the Villas. The cool white-on-white rooms and suites exude minimalist luxury and stylish simplicity. The 160 m2 Villas are a contemporary take on Comporta's traditional “cabana” houses. They include two bedrooms with private bathrooms, underfloor heati…

Yet Puerto Banus, constructed from scratch by José Banús in the 1970s, is but one new addition to the ever-sprawling suburbs of this renowned town in Southern Spain. Attracting party-goers from around the world and even inspiring a “Marbella Sessions” soundtrack from the famous Ministry of Sound, Marbella is quickly gaining a reputation akin to the party paradise of Ibiza and Magaluf. Yet that reputation belies the true heart and soul of a town which, at its centre, boasts one of the most spectacular and quaint historic quarters in all of Andalucía. Marbella's “Casco Antiguo” (old quarter)…

This c. With striking scenery and captivating wildlife, only a handful of experiences are on par with an African safari. But Africa is not a country; it's a continent made up of 54 culturally and geographically diverse countries with different climates and offering different experiences. Whether you are planning your next vacation or your honeymoon, the most critical decision you'll need to make is where to go. While African safaris can generally be broken down into three seasons: the dry season (June to October), the mixed season (November to March), and the wet season (March to May)…