As travel restrictions ease up gradually and airlines start operating again, it’s time to address our wanderlust. Here are some travel ideas worth considering.
a stellar retreat in africa
To be considered world travellers, we’ll need to have Africa on our bucket list. And we’ve set our sights on andBeyond’s Sossusvlei Desert Lodge. It’s a 90-minute helicopter ride from Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. This means we’ll already get an eagle’s eye view of the landscape prior to arriving at the resort. From this vantage, we won’t be needing a drone to capture spectacular aerial images.
The retreat offers sophisticated accommodations in stone-and-glass suites. These are all built with sustainable, environment friendly designs. Aside from being a luxurious and tranquil resort in close proximity to Namibia’s iconic star dunes, it boasts an observatory that allows guests to scrutinise the constellations that shimmer above in the desert skies.
Of course, no one goes to Africa without also intending to see the big five of African wildlife. Or to experience the rich culture and learn the land’s history for perspective. It is useful to note that andBeyond has a collection of lodges across the continent catering to a variety of interests. The Sossusvlei lodge definitely makes a perfect cap to what could be an epic trip.
Preview the andBeyond properties and itineraries here.
Riviera Glamour
For many, Monte Carlo has long been the world’s capital of glamour (sorry, Paris). It is often referred to as the playground of the rich and famous, and has also been immortalised in songs and in films. Who would forget Sir Alfred Hitchcock’s To Catch A Thief (1955)? The classic film noir featured the late Princess of Monaco herself, HRH Grace Kelly.
Beyond just hype, it is culture and sophistication that have continued to feed into the coastal city’s mystique. Central to this is the multiple award-winning Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel, which offers a modern experience of the Riviera’s golden era through its intimate service. Indeed, to vacation there is to be in the milieu of a rich tapestry woven from elegant soirees, convivial society, virtuoso performances and Michelin starred cuisine. It’s the perfect way to get a taste of Riviera life.
Access glamorous holiday inspirations here.
beethoven knocks
In commemoration of the 250th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s birth, Bonn has launched a campaign to give visitors a truly meaningful experience of the musical virtuoso. And to make up for the disruption from COVID-19, the city has extended it till September 2021.
The Beethoven festival offers a treasury of organised opportunities for people to enjoy the musician’s work in various ways. Apart from guided tours that trace his life and timeline of achievements, visitors can also play the Ninth Symphony with the legendary composer and snapping a “live” photo with him, among other novelty events.
Fun fact: Beethoven was not totally deaf as commonly believed.
See details here.
fifty shades of gorgeous
Who needs any persuasion to go to the Maldives when it easily tops the list of dream destinations. The real challenge lies in deciding which of the many beautiful and luxurious resorts to stay at.
One of the the most stunning we’ve seen this month is Cheval Blanc Randheli, on Noonu atoll. There are 46 villas, designed to make the most of their situation – whether it’s by the ocean, a garden or a lagoon.
While every villa offers thoughtful details for comfort and tranquillity, some of them also feature living rooms that open on to private pools and sun terraces. So if the pool proves too tame, one can slide into the turquoise ocean to play with the reef fish. Better yet, grab some snorkelling or diving gear to venture into the deep blue.
With sunshine, clean air, gentle breezes, a great spa and, of course, world-class cuisine from its restaurants and bars, Cheval Blanc Randheli has everything the doctor ordered to exorcise the ills of protracted cabin fever.
Discover more here.
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