Articles & Opinion

Luxury Link’s 2023 Additions

Habitas AlUla – Saudi Arabia

Welcome to a sustainable home of wonder in AlUla, an immersive experience where nature inspires creative expression, human connection and the pursuit of adventure. Located in the Northwest of Saudi Arabia, Habitas AlUla is nestled among an ancient oasis in a desert valley surrounded by spectacular sandstone cliffs and palm groves with pathways leading up to one of 96 guest rooms, reception, a yoga deck, wellness and fitness centers, restaurant and a swimming pool. Every room is made from ethically sourced organic materials that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings with minimal disruption and a sustainable programming leaving no trace on the environment.

The programming is the backbone for creating magical moments for guests. The six programming pillars, which include: wellness, adventure, culture, learning and F&B are authentic collaborations with the local culture and nature. Tama, the restaurant, is a place to come together and experience an immersive culinary journey through time. With farm-to-table practices and sustainable agricultural methods. The food & beverage concept infuses Saudi & Middle Eastern cuisine, using local, fresh ingredients, such as spices once traded along the incense route, bringing Saudi Arabia’s unique flavors to life.

Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo – Panama

Located right in the center of District of Casco Viejo Panama, a UNESCO protected site, this hotel is the perfect blend of its Spanish and French colonial roots. With wrought iron balconies, wood-paneling, and patterned wall tile, the effortless luxury will have you stepping right into the high society glamour of Panama in the 1900’s.

Built right between the Pacific Ocean and the Panama skyline, the majority of the 159 rooms and suites have a balcony that boast astonishing views. There are five food and beverage venues, all overseen by Italian chef Lorenzo Di Gravio. Chef Di Gravio, a former chef in the Michelin-starred Assaje restaurant in Rome, sources his ingredients locally and makes it a point to highlight Panamanian culture.

Make sure you set aside a day for lounging by the waterfront infinity pool, followed by pampering yourself at the spa. Equipped with a poolside bar that delivers cocktails, beers, juices, and smoothies, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a private oasis.

Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo – Monaco

This quiet spot with access to a private beach and sprawling Mediterranean views offers the best of both worlds, as a five-minute walk will also put you right in the center of bustling main square activity. Spend the day exploring the Opera House, Monte-Carlo Casino, or the dozens of restaurants and shops. Then, come home to the carefree elegance of the hotel. You’re sure to be impressed by any of the 277 rooms or suites. The belle epoque interiors define extravagance with furniture, wallpaper panels, and square footage worthy of royalty.

For dinner, the Michelin-starred Pavyllon Monte-Carlo is a must-visit. Enjoy the delicate Mediterranean creations while taking in the magnificent views from a terrace on the French Riviera. Chef Yannick Alleno’s cuisine is locally sourced and best described as “fine dining without the formality.”

Allow the 6,600 square meter Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo to be the highlight of your trip. All reservations include access to the state-of-the-art preventative care wellness center. Let stress melt away in the heated seawater pool, the solarium jacuzzi, or hammam. Follow it up with one of the many innovative treatments, like Whole Body Cryotherapy, an Electroporation Face and Body Treatment, or a La Prairie White Caviar Illuminating Treatment. No matter your choice, you’re sure to leave Monaco feeling brand new.

La Casa de la Playa – Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

The ideal destination if you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort in which to hide away from the world. Secluded in the luscious rainforest this resort sits with a perfect view of the Mayan Riviera. Designer David Quintana took inspiration from ancient Mayan architecture and created a resort that allows you to appreciate your surroundings with floor-to-ceiling windows, oceanfront terraces, and infinity pools that overlook the beach.

The 63 ocean front suites are just as impressive, each with local decorations that replicate the intimate and welcoming hospitality of Mexico. Suites are divided into three buildings – Natural, Fiesta, and Wellness – with each suite encompassing the building’s mantra. As an all-inclusive resort, each suite also includes butler service, round-trip airport transportation, turndown service, and access to Xcaret parks.

You’ve never experienced food like this at an all-inclusive resort before. Four restaurants helmed by award-winning celebrity chefs, each with their own take on Mexican culture. From the artistic and colorful dishes inspired by indigenous Mexico at Touch de Luna to the lively atmosphere of street food inspired by the north of Mexico at Centli, you’ll find something you’ll want to devour in two bites.

Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort – Greece

This is the place to be if you’re looking for an adults-only island getaway. Set on the eastern coast of the Greek island of Zakynthos, you’ll be perfectly placed to admire the spectacular Ionian Sea views.

Regardless of your activity level, there’s something for everyone to do. For the explorers, there are excursions to the Blue Caves and Marathonisi Island – one of the few places to admire the endangered Loggerhead sea turtle. For those looking to relax, a new outdoor spa area has been created. Guests can indulge in a private couple’s massage while being immersed in the sounds of the impossibly blue waves hitting the shore. Then follow it up with a wine tasting, the hotel’s sommelier will have you learning about the best Greek and international wines.

There are 92 spectacular suites to choose from, each including a beautiful view of the surrounding sea. There are 6 suite categories, some including plunge pools, verandas, or outside whirlpool baths. The gem suite of the hotel is the Royal Grand Suite Sea View with Private Pool. The suite has two floors and is elegantly decorated with an open plan. The bathroom is marbled and includes a separate spa bathtub with a view of the ocean. A private infinity pool is perfectly placed in the terrace and provides a tranquil getaway.

*Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort closes for the season on October 15 and reopens on May 1.

Montage Big Sky – Big Sky, Montana

The perfect hotel for those on the hunt for adventure. Located just 45 minutes away from Yellowstone National Park, Montana Big Sky offers the perfect blend of rustic outdoor experiences with lavish and expansive interiors. Spend a memorable day among nature with plenty of activities to choose from. Montana Big Sky has ski-in/ski-out access to Big Sky Resort, horseback riding, UTV tours, archery, 3 world-class fly-fishing rivers, an 18-hole golf course by Golf Hall of Fame inductee Tom Weiskopf, and much more!

After a day of exploration nothing compares to an invigorating treatment at Spa Montage. This 11,000 sqf spa is inspired by the wilderness and offers 12 treatment rooms. The spa associates use naturally sourced products and an array of techniques, like sound healing, to create an atmosphere of pure relaxation and bliss.

The 139 room, suites, and residences are tastefully designed and inspired by the American West. Neutral Earth tones are complementary of the Spanish Peaks, while contemporary photographs line the walls. As if the spa wasn’t relaxing enough, finish off your day by melting into the large Italian marble tub. Best of all, most rooms and suites have balconies and terraces with stunning mountain views.

Hotel Las Islas – Colombia

Reconnect and refresh your spirit amidst the white sand beaches and turquoise waters of Colombia’s Isla Barú. Located just 45 minutes from Cartagena, Hotel Las Islas is a sophisticated, environmentally conscious retreat, with luxurious accommodations and exceptional amenities.

Settle into your immaculately appointed bungalow, with its views of the sea or of the neighboring Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario y de San Bernardo. Visit one of the restaurants and bars for locally sourced, expertly prepared cuisine. Relax by the freshwater pool, take in the views from the solarium or explore one of the many activities available at the hotel. Throughout your visit, you’ll enjoy the personalized attention of the staff members, all of whom are committed to making your stay truly extraordinary.

Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik – Croatia

With its prestigious location just steps from the UNESCO Old City of Dubrovnik, Hotel Excelsior is ready to showcase its refurbished grandeur as one of the most lavish hotels on the Adriatic. A historic villa built in 1913 and taking full advantage of gorgeous west-facing views of the glorious Old Town, Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik enjoys the most enviable location of any hotel in the city – just a five-minute walk from the medieval fortress walls.

It has long welcomed famous guests including Queen Elizabeth II and Elizabeth Taylor. It’s only when you visit that you fully appreciate the magnificence of the setting – the tranquil gardens in which to stroll, the beautiful beach, and the hotel’s three restaurants all offering spectacular views of the Adriatic. Of course, there’s also an indoor swimming pool, a glamorous spa, and a fitness center.

Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts – Gardiner, New York

It’s time to explore a different side of New York and Wildflower Farms is here to be your guide. Set just 90 minutes north of Manhattan, in Hudson Valley, sits an idyllic working farm with a focus on reconnecting guests with nature.

The resort’s farm includes a greenhouse that the restaurant, Clay, takes full advantage of. Executive Chef, Rob Lawson, oversees all dishes and pushes for menu items that are inspired by the seasonal vegetables and used as sustainably as possible. The food’s so good you’ll want to learn how to make it for yourself. Maplehouse, the hotel’s farm education center, features a cooking school with events hosted by chefs on a weekly basis. Guests can also participate in the food-making process by joining foraging and vegetable farming groups. Other outdoor adventures include self-guided hikes, biking, rock-climbing, and ice-climbing during the winter months.

There are 60 free-standing cabins and lodges, and 5 suites. From floor to ceiling windows that provide natural lighting and incomparable meadow or mountain views, to private and spacious terraces equipped with a hot tub, Wildflower Farms seamlessly blends nature with the lodging.

Anantara Sahara Tozeur Resort & Villas – Tunisia

Head to the desert for stillness, adventure and breath-taking beauty. Anantara Sahara Tozeur Resort & Villas is your luxurious gateway to the majesty of the Sahara. Wake up to desert sunrises from the privacy of your pool villa at one of the best Tunisia hotels. Drive through the dramatic Atlas Mountains to the abandoned villages of Chebika, Tamerza and Mides.

Unfolding around the resort in the shape of a palm, ground-floor rooms blend into the surrounding desert landscape, with views either from your window or terrace daybed. Return to the resort for poolside bliss, hammam spa rituals, and dining under the stars in Berber style.

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest – Rwanda

Surrounded by swaying eucalyptus trees, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest awakens a wild spirit of adventure. A place that encourages you to gaze into the mirror through eye opening encounters with majestic mountain gorillas and experience the story of Rwanda. Cushioned in the foothills of the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest makes the magical possible as you enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime, personal encounter with the rare and majestic mountain gorillas roaming free in its own natural habitat.

From the moment you arrive, fragrant fauna and flora greet you. A hidden garden atop the volcanic mountains where a world of roses and eucalyptus trees grow all year round in the fertile Rwandan soil. Not only does the plant-life contribute to everything from your welcome drink to your dinner and the logs burning on the fire – every plant and tree is chosen to encourage flourishing wildlife. A perfect ecosystem that is constantly growing – your backdrop, your hideaway and your palate.

Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf – Washington, DC

A striking new destination on Washington’s waterfront harbor, Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf is a timeless testament to our nation’s classic style and grace. Layered with a European-inspired sensibility and Pendry’s signature offering of modern-day hospitality, this polished playground takes the city’s rich history and redefines it for a new era.

Designed for DC. Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf features 131 beautifully appointed guestrooms, including 38 spacious suites, each imbued with a warm, residential-inspired aesthetic that feels comfortable and classic, while also inspiring with incredible detail and design-centric touches throughout. Home to three signature dining destinations welcoming hotel guests and locals alike. From all-day fare to evenings at Bar Pendry to the panoramic waterfront views from Flora Flora, each space is a stunning standout for food, drinks and just the right amount of revelry.

The Langham, Gold Coast & Jewel Residence – Australia

Situated between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, The Langham, Gold Coast and Jewel Residences, managed by Langham rises in the heart of Queensland’s most exquisite beaches, replete with tastefully appointed hotel rooms and residences. Bringing serene sophistication and coastal charm, The Langham, Gold Coast is the first new beachfront luxury hotel to arrive in Australia’s holiday capital in more than 30 years.

With 169 hotel rooms and 170 residences, The Langham, Gold Coast offers a variety of rooms and suites, each presenting a stunning panorama of the Pacific Ocean or the Hinterland.

Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz – Switzerland

Set in an iconic 1864 building, Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski combines elegant European luxury, meticulous service, and grand event venues in the Swiss Alps. Experience a breathtaking mountain setting to unwind in style.

The 228 rooms and suites invite you to indulge in alpine luxury. The Alpine Spa, with a sauna area, pool and gym offer pure relaxation and pampering wellness treatments. Culinary delights can be savored in the Lobby Bar and three acclaimed restaurants, including the Gourmet Restaurant Cà d’Oro.

To view more of our recent 2023 additions, click here.