Cover Sleep under the stars with andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

Channel your inner globetrotter with design inspiration from these unique holiday destinations

As the world begins to open up, the possibility to quench one’s wanderlust is now within reach. With this, there is one trend that is apparent—intentional and slow travel. Gone are the days of multi-destinations, hopping around on tour buses, and ticking off notable sites from a checklist with a customary photo. Today’s well-heeled traveller is following in the footsteps of voyagers of yore with immersive experiences focused on exploration and relaxation and that are anchored in beautifully and thoughtfully designed spaces.

The Venta Suites

Tatler Asia
Above A chic bedroom chamber at Venta Suites
Tatler Asia
Above Venta Suites pond deck

Pampanga, Philippines

Housed in a former wood kiln-drying facility, The Venta Suites is an artsy homage to the owners’ passion for plants and woodcraft. Owned and operated by the Bituin family, champions of local Pampanga craftsmanship since the 1970s and founders of JB Woodcraft and Betis Crafts, the charming Bed and Breakfast features four chambers within a sprawling and lush family compound. Each one has unique features such as a Moroccan-inspired private pool, direct access to the pond deck or a claw-footed tub. Colourful and rustic, each corner is Instagram-worthy, making it perfect for a weekend girls’ trip or a romantic escapade.

Instagram: @theventasuites | email: theventasuites@gmail.com

Camper & Cabin

Tatler Asia
Above Camper & Cabin’s refurbished Airstream boasts a generous underground bathroom, combing the spirit of adventure with luxury
Tatler Asia
Above Camper & Cabin’s refurbished Airstream boasts a generous underground bathroom, combing the spirit of adventure with luxury

Batangas, Philippines

Inspired by Mid-Century Modern’s great architects and designers, notably Frank Lloyd Wright’s ethos of harmony between man and the environment and Le Corbusier’s clean geometric lines, Camper & Cabin is an exceptional escape just a few hours out of Metro Manila on the foothills of Mount Batulao. Conceptualised and designed by the owner, architect Dennis Canonizado, the property features three accommodations: a contemporary studio, a mid-century cabin and a refurbished vintage Airstream camper van. With stunning views of both mountain and sea, Camper & Cabin is a wonderful escape that seamlessly blends great design with the great outdoors.

camperandcabin.com

Amanzoe

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Amanzoe, Greece - Library
Above Amanzoe marries classical Greek architecture with modern sensibilities
Tatler Asia
Amanzoe, Greece - Accommodation, Deluxe Pool Pavilion, Pool
Above Amanzoe marries classical Greek architecture with modern sensibilities

Greece

Sitting on a hilltop on the coast of the Peloponnese, surrounded by olive groves and with unparalleled views of the cerulean sea, Amanzoe is the quintessential Hellenistic paradise. Designed by famed architect Ed Tuttle, the property is a modern nod to classical Greek architecture with its very own contemporary acropolis. Columns and cornices juxtaposed with angular structures in neutral tones result in a stunning setting for rest and relaxation. Layers of natural texture, particularly marble and stone, which Tuttle calls “the most basic and noble materials of Greece”, contribute to the overall design ethos of the Aman group where peace and serenity are at its core.

aman.com

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya

Tatler Asia
Above Maroma blends contemporary luxury with Mexican local materials and heritage
Tatler Asia
Above Maroma blends contemporary luxury with Mexican local materials and heritage

Mexico

Nestled between a dense tropical jungle and the white sands of Mexico’s Caribbean coast is Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya. Set to reopen in May 2023, the property is currently undergoing an extensive renovation under the helm of renowned designer Tara Bernerd whose vision is to honour local materials, Mexican artisanal traditions and authentic craftsmanship. With buildings aligned to the Sacred Geometry of Mayan masons, it is the perfect setting for a soulful retreat by exploring the indoor-outdoor spa and variety of wellness offerings that were inspired by ancient healing rituals.

belmond.com

andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

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Above Sleep under the stars with andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

Tanzania

Under the supervision of Fox Browne Creative for interiors and Jack Alexander for architecture, andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp is being reinvented as the andBeyond Grumeti Seregenti River Lodge and is due to reopen this June. Reimagining the traditional safari tent, the brand-new lodge will stay true to its rustic roots but will embrace a more contemporary and luxurious atmosphere. Sleek structures, earthy neutrals and traditional touches all contribute to a sophisticated and current safari vibe. Equipped with solar power and a water recycling system, sustainability is key for the property. Consider booking one night at their Lake Manyara Tree Lodge for an opportunity to sleep under the stars and truly experience living in the wild.

andbeyond.com

Else

Tatler Asia
Above Peaceful tropical minimalism is at the heart of Else’s design ethos
Tatler Asia
Above Peaceful tropical minimalism is at the heart of Else’s design ethos

Malaysia

Seamlessly blending old and new, housed in a 1930s heritage building in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, is Else’s inaugural hotel. “We created calming and comfortable rooms, living room and library so guests can both unplug and plugin,” says Javier Perez, co-founder of Else. “From floating meditation pods and a gratitude space to a business den and healthful, creative restaurants—everyone will have the opportunity to live well, at their own pace.” Soft palettes and natural tropical textures are combined with a contemporary design to create a calming yet sophisticated space. Combined with a variety of wellness facilities and thoughtful cuisine, Else is the perfect urban hideaway.

elseretreats.com

Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train

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Above Sophisticated sleeper cabins with local Peruvian textiles
Tatler Asia
Above Unwind in the Lounge Car of the Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train

Peru

Experience the ancient kingdoms and natural wonders from Cusco to Lake Titicaca and Arequipa in style as you traverse the Peruvian Andes aboard South America’s first luxury sleeper train, the Andean Explorer. Peruvian accents such as throw pillows and blankets in local textiles complement the classic cabin interiors and ensuite bathrooms and showers ensure a luxurious travel experience. Share tales of adventure with fellow travellers over cocktails at the lounge car, indulge in delicious fine dining Peruvian cuisine, or treat yourself to a massage in the spa car. One thing is certain: in the Andean Express, the journey is more important than the destination.

belmond.com

Nour El Nil

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Photo 1 of 3 Slow travel at its finest with Nour El Nil’s well-appointed dahabeahs
Photo 2 of 3 Slow travel at its finest with Nour El Nil’s well-appointed dahabeahs
Photo 3 of 3 Slow travel at its finest with Nour El Nil’s well-appointed dahabeahs

Egypt

Travel back in time as you serenely float down the Nile River on a modern dahabeah—Egypt’s iconic and historic passenger boats. Travelling between Luxor and Aswan, Nour EL Nil offers six well-appointed boats that are tastefully decorated with colonial and local flair. The Adelaide, with two panoramic suites and ten luxury rooms, is their largest; however, all the boats feature the same signature white walls and wainscotting in the cabins accentuated by vibrant pops of colour and gilded touches. The ultimate in slow travel, the open deck is the perfect place to unwind for sunset cocktails after visiting ancient temples and pyramids.

nourelnil.com

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