Perched high above the Indian Ocean on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, Bvlgari Resort Bali is one of those hotels that feels completely removed from the rest of Bali. The moment you arrive, the atmosphere changes. The roads leading to the resort are chaotic and busy, but once the large carved wooden doors open, everything becomes quiet. You hear the ocean immediately. The air feels heavier from the humidity and sea breeze, and the entire property smells faintly of frangipani and wood smoke.

The resort sits on a dramatic limestone cliff roughly 160 metres above the ocean, and nearly every part of the property faces the water. Unlike many luxury hotels in Bali that lean heavily into tropical softness, Bvlgari Bali feels darker, moodier, and more architectural. Black volcanic stone, teak wood, hand-cut lava rock, and traditional Balinese alang-alang roofs are mixed with sleek Italian furniture and clean contemporary lines. It somehow manages to feel both very Balinese and unmistakably Italian at the same time.

The Service

The service here is extremely polished, but not overly formal.

Each villa comes with butler service, and the staff quickly learn your routine. By the second day, they usually remember your coffee order, preferred breakfast time, and even small details like where you like to sit at the pool.

One thing that stands out is how calm the service feels. Nobody rushes you. Meals move slowly, housekeeping appears almost invisibly, and requests are handled quietly through WhatsApp or directly through the butler team.

There’s also a level of generosity that you don’t always see anymore at luxury hotels. Guests receive complimentary pressing and laundry service, an included minibar, and 24-hour breakfast.

The Villas

The villas are the reason many people book this hotel. Even the entry-level villas feel enormous. The layout is very private, with high stone walls surrounding each space, so once you’re inside, you barely see another guest. Most villas open into an outdoor living room with a plunge pool facing directly toward the ocean. The pools are not oversized, but they’re long enough to properly swim in, and because of the cliffside positioning, the views feel endless.

Inside, the rooms are intentionally dark and cocoon-like. There’s a lot of polished wood, textured stone, bronze details, and heavy linen fabrics. The bathrooms are particularly beautiful, with oversized soaking tubs, outdoor showers, double vanities, and enormous sliding doors that let the sea air move through the space.

One thing the hotel does especially well is lighting. At night, the villas become incredibly atmospheric. Small lanterns are lit throughout the pathways, candles appear during turndown service, and the pools reflect the lights from the cliff edge. It feels cinematic without trying too hard.

The Ocean Cliff Villas are worth the upgrade if privacy and view matter to you. They sit closest to the edge of the cliff and have the most unobstructed ocean views in the resort.

The Food

The food at Bvlgari Bali is surprisingly strong for a luxury resort.

Breakfast at Sangkar is one of the highlights of staying here. The terrace overlooks the ocean, and in the mornings the light across the cliffs is beautiful. The Indonesian breakfast is particularly worth ordering, especially if you’re tired of standard Western hotel breakfasts after a few days in Bali.

The Italian restaurant, Il Ristorante by Luca Fantin, is where the hotel becomes more distinctly Bvlgari. Dinner there feels much more like dining in a luxury European city than in a tropical resort. The tasting menu is refined and very technique-driven, but still light enough for Bali’s climate.

The bar becomes especially lively around sunset. This is probably the most social part of the resort. Guests gather for aperitivo while the sky changes from orange to deep pink over the Indian Ocean. It’s one of those hotels where sunset genuinely becomes part of the daily rhythm.

Facilities

The main infinity pool is one of the most beautiful parts of the resort. It sits directly along the edge of the cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, and because the water almost visually blends into the horizon, the entire area feels suspended above the sea. Unlike many large luxury resorts in Bali, the pool area here remains surprisingly calm and quiet. There’s no loud music or crowded atmosphere. Most guests spend the day either in their villas or move slowly between the pool, spa, and restaurants.

The design around the pool is also very characteristic of Bvlgari Bali. Black volcanic stone, teak wood loungers, oversized umbrellas, and traditional Balinese elements make the space feel dramatic rather than overtly tropical. In the late afternoon especially, the lighting becomes beautiful as the sun starts reflecting against the cliffs and ocean below.

The spa is another highlight of the resort and feels intentionally secluded from the rest of the property. The treatment rooms are oversized and designed almost like private villas, with open-air relaxation spaces, deep soaking tubs, and views overlooking the ocean and tropical greenery. Treatments combine traditional Balinese techniques with more modern wellness rituals, using volcanic stones, oils, herbs, and deep-pressure massage techniques.

One thing the hotel does especially well is creating a sense of calm throughout the spa area. Even when the resort is full, the spa never feels busy or crowded. There are also yoga spaces, relaxation areas, and a small fitness center integrated into the spa complex, all designed with the same dark stone and natural wood aesthetic found throughout the rest of the property.

The Beach

The private beach is one of the most unique parts of the hotel.

You reach it via an inclined elevator carved directly into the cliff, descending through dense greenery toward the ocean below. The ride itself feels dramatic, especially early in the morning or at sunset.

The beach is beautiful, but it’s important to know this is not the calm turquoise-water Bali you see on Instagram. The waves are powerful, and depending on the tide, swimming can be difficult. Most people come down for the atmosphere rather than to spend an entire day in the water.

Still, the setting is extraordinary. The cliffs tower above you, the sand is almost completely secluded, and because access is limited to hotel guests, it never feels crowded.

There’s also a beach club-style restaurant near the shore where you can have lunch without going back up to the main resort.

I recently stayed at the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, and it truly exceeded my expectations. From start to finish, everything about the hotel was spot-on, making for a memorable experience. Here’s what makes it stand out:

Perfect for Every Traveler: This property has something for every type of traveler. Located in Abu Dhabi’s financial district, it manages to offer a peaceful retreat that’s perfect for relaxation, but still close to everything you might want to do in the city. Whether you're looking for a luxurious getaway, a family-friendly destination, or a place to explore the city, the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island ticks all the boxes.

Location: The hotel’s location is top-notch. It's directly connected to The Galleria, a luxury shopping mall, which means you’ve got easy access to high-end shopping and dining. Plus, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is just a 10-minute drive away, and the Grand Mosque is only about 20 minutes away. It’s super easy to get to some of the city’s most iconic sights from the hotel.

Rooms: The rooms live up to the Four Seasons name—luxurious, spacious, and beautifully designed. The calming white and gray tones create a modern, soothing ambiance. Each room has a walk-in shower and a deep soaking bathtub.

But the real standout is the bed. Having stayed in many luxury hotels, I can say that Four Seasons beds are my absolute favorite. They’re incredibly comfortable, with plush mattresses and silky-soft sheets that make it hard to get out of bed in the morning.

Wellness & Spa: Four Seasons Abu Dhabi takes wellness seriously, offering state-of-the-art facilities, including a gym with TechnoGym equipment, saunas, a vitality pool, and a fantastic spa.

The Pearl Spa is a must-visit. I had the 60-minute Holistic Facial, and it was one of the best treatments I’ve experienced in a while. The therapist used over 12 skincare products, leaving my skin glowing and completely refreshed. Between treatments, she also massaged my head, face, and arms—making the entire experience even more relaxing.

The pool is another great highlight—a true oasis of peace with music and panoramic marina views. After exploring Abu Dhabi’s landmarks, I found it perfect to unwind by the pool and enjoy the quiet surroundings.

Dining: A good breakfast is always a highlight for me at any luxury hotel, and this one didn’t disappoint. Guests can enjoy an expansive buffet with just about everything you can imagine, along with a menu of à la carte dishes.

I especially loved the yogurt cart, which comes right to your table and lets you personalize your bowl with seasonal fruit, granola, and nuts — such a thoughtful touch. And the coffee was truly fantastic.

For a light lunch by the pool, there are poke bowls, fresh salads, sushi and fabulous drinks to enjoy while you soak up the sun.

Service: As expected from Four Seasons, the service is exceptional. What stood out to me was how the staff went above and beyond. For example, when I visited the Grand Mosque, women are required to wear a traditional gown and head covering. The concierge provided me with one, so I didn’t have to worry about sourcing it myself. It’s these thoughtful little details that make all the difference.

Perfect for Families: Four Seasons is known for being great for families, and this property is no exception. When I arrived with my toddler, the room was thoughtfully prepared with a baby bathtub, specialty baby soaps, and an adorable mini robe.

At breakfast, they even provided toddler-friendly cutlery, making mealtime so much easier. The kids' club, which is open from 10 AM to 7 PM daily, was filled with toys and activities. My toddler had so much fun, he didn’t want to leave!

I recently stayed at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, and it was absolutely incredible. Opened in 2019, this stunning property is the most glamorous destination on the Athens Riviera. Set across 30 hectares of pine forest and perched on a hill with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, it feels like a private oasis.

It’s the kind of place where you can truly disconnect — while still being just a short drive from Athens’ rich history. Here’s what makes it stand out:

Perfect for Every Type of Traveler: Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family, this hotel is perfect for everyone. The resort is incredibly family-friendly, with a fantastic kids' club that keeps little ones entertained with a variety of activities.

It also offers a peaceful, romantic ambiance, so it’s equally great for couples. It’s not often that you find a place that caters so well to both families and couples, but Four Seasons Astir Palace has mastered that balance.

Exceptional Service: With a team of 800 staff members, the service here is truly next-level. Everyone went out of their way to make me feel special, and each member of the team seemed genuinely invested in making sure my stay was perfect. For example, the pool attendants, hostesses, and other staff members greeted me by name every time I saw them, and no request was too big or too small. For instance, one day I was craving guacamole by the pool—even though it wasn’t on the menu, they made it for me without hesitation.

A Haven of Peace and Luxury: From the moment I arrived at the Four Seasons Astir Palace, I felt like I’d entered a true sanctuary. With elegant private beaches, sparkling pools, a world-class spa, and beautifully designed spaces, it was almost impossible to leave—I didn’t step off the property once during my entire stay.

Every detail, from the sea views to the peaceful gardens, encourages you to slow down and fully embrace the simple luxury of time.

The hotel blends coastal chic with nature-inspired design and timeless elegance. Sleek interiors flow seamlessly into the outdoors, creating a setting that’s both serene and refined. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and feel as if you’ve found your own exclusive retreat.

Fabulous Rooms: The room’s standout feature was the balcony. It was the perfect spot to relax, with comfy outdoor furniture and sweeping views of the Aegean. I spent my mornings enjoying a cup of coffee there while watching the sunrise—it was a peaceful way to start the day.

The Four Seasons beds are also worth mentioning. With luxurious linens and plush pillows, I had some of the best sleep I’ve had in a long time. The Diptyque toiletries were a nice pampering touch, too.

If you’re planning a stay, make sure to book a room in the Nafsika building. This newer section of the hotel offers modern accommodations with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Incredible Facilities: The resort is a wellness sanctuary. It has an outdoor infinity pool, an indoor pool with sea views at the spa, and a well-equipped gym with TechnoGym machines. I especially loved the hydrotherapy zone, with its aroma steam grotto, chill showers, sauna, and hammam. I spent a lot of time alternating between the indoor and outdoor pools, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

Spa: Be sure to indulge in the spa’s signature treatments, like the 50-minute Armonia Massage and the 30-minute Oxygono Face & Eyes Facial. The products used during my treatments were from a Cretan brand called Bioaroma, and they were amazing—beautiful, local products that left my face and body feeling plumped and deeply rehydrated, results that actually lasted (which isn’t always the case). Afterward, I relaxed in the spa’s quiet room, sipping lavender green tea—such a perfect way to unwind.

Dining: Dining at the Four Seasons Astir Palace is a true highlight. As you'd expect, breakfast is a beautiful, expansive buffet with à la carte options available as well. I highly recommend sitting outside — the view of the water in the morning is stunning.

With eight restaurants on the property, there’s no shortage of variety, but Taverna 37 was the standout for me. It’s easily one of the best tavernas in Athens, serving authentic Greek dishes like smoked eggplant cream and zucchini patties — both of which were among the best things I ate on the entire trip. Go early for dinner if you can; watching the sunset from your table is a beautiful experience.

Another favorite was the tuna poke bowl from the Nafsika poolside menu. It was so good, I ended up ordering it every day of my stay.

Super Family-Friendly: The kids' club is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM and is packed with activities to keep little ones busy. From pottery classes to water sports and tennis, there’s always something happening.

I noticed that the staff treats the kids with the same care and attention to detail as they do the adults, which was really nice to see. I came here with my husband, but I’m already planning to come back with my kids.

Style: Six Senses Shaharut perfectly blends the serenity of the desert with refined luxury. The resort’s intimate, boutique feel offers a peaceful escape, while the world-class amenities ensure maximum comfort throughout your stay.

Rooms: There are just 60 suites and villas, all carved thoughtfully into the hillside. Each of the rooms are designed with limestone floors, neutral palettes, and huge sliding glass doors that open to private terraces with sweeping views of the Arava Valley. Some have plunge pools, but all offer cinematic desert sunrises and star-studded skies.

For me, the highlight of the room was the balcony — it felt like stepping right into the nature reserve. Each morning, I ordered coffee to the room and watched the sunrise from there. It was pure magic.

Dining: Chef David Bitton oversees a kitchen deeply rooted in the land. Many of the ingredients—like Thai basil, lavender, heirloom tomatoes, citrus, and pomegranates—are grown on-site and showcased in unfussy, flavorful dishes.

Mornings begin with both a buffet and à la carte mains. The buffet is fantastic and expansive — think local cheeses such as Hameri, oven-warm bread, za’atar-spiced salads, seasonal fruit, and fresh-pressed juices.

Lunch is a more casual affair, whether you're dining poolside on grilled fish, steak, and mezze at the Pool Bar, or enjoying lamb kebabs and light bites like mini burgers at Jamillah Lounge.

During sunset hour, you absolutely must grab a glass of wine (the second glass is 50% off) at the Jamillah bar. They serve a great selection of Israeli wines — then head out to watch the sunset. It’s breathtaking.

Come evening, dinner at Midian turns refined, with Mediterranean dishes that celebrate regional produce and tradition. The sommelier offers thoughtful wine pairings with a focus on small Israeli vineyards.

Facilities & Activities: The outdoor pool is a highlight of the resort, offering panoramic views of Jordan’s mountains. It’s where we spent most of our stay. Also, in case you get to hot, you can go lounge at the beautiful indoor pool.

Guests can enjoy daily complimentary hatha yoga sessions at 8 AM, with space for only 12 people, so be sure to sign up early. Don’t miss the Alchemy Bar, where you can create your own spa oils, mud masks, or body rubs using herbs from the resort’s organic garden.

For adventure seekers, there’s no shortage of exciting activities like trekking through the desert, biking, stargazing, camel riding, and exploring the dunes in a 4X4 vehicle.

Here’s what makes it special:

Style: Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, the resort is known for its contemporary Alpine architecture paired with sleek, Asian-influenced interiors. Instead of gingham and stuffy décor, you’ll find black stone, dark wood, soft lighting, and orchids—a fresh, modern take on Alpine hotel design.

The Location: Andermatt is a tiny Alpine town in central Switzerland with fewer than 1,000 residents — quiet, picturesque, and postcard-perfect.

Getting there is easy: the hotel can arrange a private transfer from Zurich (about 90 minutes by car), or you can take a direct train from Zurich (1.5 hours), Milan (2 hours), or Munich (4 hours). I took the 1.5 hour train ride from Zurich, and it was a stunning train ride through the Alps. I highly recommend it.

The Rooms: Each room feels like a private chalet with extra polish. They’re gorgeously designed, spacious and cozy at the same time, with king-size feather beds, warm oak floors, and plush furnishings in neutral tones. Bathrooms are oversized and indulgent, with a freestanding tub at the center, a rainfall shower, and full-size Acqua di Parma products.

Facilities & Activities: The Chedi Andermatt is a kind of place you check into — and will never want to leave! The spa is the heart of the hotel — and one of the best I’ve ever experienced. There’s a 35-meter indoor pool with mountain views, plus a heated outdoor pool if you want fresh air. The gym is stocked with Technogym equipment and feels more like a boutique fitness studio than a hotel gym. Facilities include steam rooms, infrared saunas, plunge pools, and hydrotherapy circuits.

If you book one thing, make it the Chedi Alpine Massage. You’ll start in the wet and dry saunas, then move into a deeply relaxing treatment that blends Asian techniques with Alpine aromatics. It’s the perfect way to end the day — especially after a long hike or ski day.

In summer, guests hike, bike, and climb. In winter, the Chedi offers ski-in/ski-out access, snowshoeing, and guided mountain adventures. Private yoga, Pilates, and personal training are available year-round.

Dining: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at The Restaurant, which offers both European and Asian dishes — think buttery rösti with eggs in the morning, truffle pasta or spicy Thai curry at night.

One of the first things you’ll notice is the glass-walled Cheese Cellar near the entrance, stocked daily with a rotating selection of Swiss cheeses. I found it especially memorable—I've never stayed at a hotel with a dedicated cheese cellar before.

The real standout, though, is The Japanese by The Chedi Andermatt — Switzerland’s highest Japanese restaurant, perched at nearly 2,300 meters above sea level. There’s also a Michelin-starred version of The Japanese located on the hotel grounds, offering a multi-course omakase-style experience. If you love sushi, sashimi, or anything tempura, you won’t want to skip it.

Bottom Line: The Chedi Andermatt is one of those rare hotels that’s just as magical in winter as it is in summer — and equally suited for families, romantic getaways, or solo travelers looking to unplug and breathe in the mountain air. It’s not just one of the best resorts in Switzerland; it might be the best reason to visit Switzerland in the first place.

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Location: This hotel is the ideal option for both leisure and business. While it’s located in the business capital of South Africa—Johannesburg— it truly is an “urban oasis”. Being originally from Johannesburg, I can say the stunning, panoramic views from atop the hillside make it feel as though you’ve escaped the city and entered serene nature.

The gardens on the property are exquisite, with every type of flower—from brightly colored bougainvillea to elegant roses and expertly clipped topiary. A visit to the rose garden, filled with hundreds of roses—the chef of Flames restaurant’s personal favorite spot—overlooking a beautiful canopy of urban trees, is perfect for moments of calm. I highly recommend an afternoon stroll there during the summer months when the roses are in full bloom.

Luxurious Rooms: The 80 (soon to be 117) guest rooms and suites are spread across nine hillside villas. They carry the charm of the property’s origins as private residences, with a spacious, homelike feel and balconies—both private and shared—that open onto panoramic 240-degree views of Johannesburg’s high-rise skyline.

I always love a good pair of hotel slippers, and these were honestly the best I’ve ever worn. The bathroom in my suite was luxurious, with two basins, a deep soaking bath, a spacious shower, and plenty of hanging space.

The mattresses are custom-made for The Four Seasons, and after sleeping on one, I could tell—I haven’t slept that well in a long time. A lovely touch is that each suite also has embroidered pillows, handcrafted by local artisans.

Wellness & Spa: As expected, The Four Seasons Hotel The Wescliff offers state-of-the-art wellness facilities, including a gym with TechnoGym equipment that stays open 24/7, a sauna and steam room, a temperature-regulated lap pool, and a fantastic spa. Above the spa is the city’s only outdoor spa lounge, Après-Spa, overlooking the pool—the perfect spot to relax and order something light to eat between treatments.

I especially enjoyed alternating between the sauna and steam room, cooling off at the specially designed ice station in between sessions.

A thoughtful touch in the gym was the refreshment station, complete with cool scented towels, bottled still and sparkling water, fresh fruit, and even homemade protein bars. Small details like these made the experience feel personal and indulgent.

Dining: One of the most magical parts of The Four Seasons Johannesburg reveals itself before you even sit down to eat. As you ride the glass lift up to Flames, the hotel’s signature restaurant, you’re treated to sweeping views of the gardens below and Johannesburg’s glittering city center — a breathtaking prelude to what’s to come.

At the helm of Flames is Chef Rudi Liebenberg, whose world-renowned, fire-driven style defines the restaurant’s menu. He recommends starting with the crayfish Caesar salad — baby cos lettuce grilled over the flame and topped with bacon bits — followed by the smoky ribeye, served in a simple, perfectly balanced sauce. For dessert, his favorite: a hazelnut chocolate bar filled with cream and nuts. To complete the meal, he suggests a Bordeaux-style wine from the Western Cape.

Flames itself is an experience. About half of the diners aren’t hotel guests but locals who come specifically for the culinary destination it’s become. During my stay, small fires flickered around the terrace, adding warmth and atmosphere on a chilly evening. When I arrived, a blanket was already waiting on my chair — a small but thoughtful touch that captures what makes this hotel so special.

Breakfast at Flames is just as memorable. Open from 6:30 am to 11 am, it caters equally to early risers, business travelers, and those lingering over a slow morning. The buffet is beautifully arranged, with every fruit, cheese, and pastry imaginable, along with a menu of hot dishes made to order. With a barista waiting for your coffee request, a waiter offering a breakfast mimosa, and a view of the lush gardens stretching out below, it’s impossible not to start the day feeling completely spoiled.

Exceptional Service: The service at The Four Seasons is nothing short of spectacular. From the option to check in online before arrival and valet parking, to the complimentary chocolate mousse and coconut treat, as well as a fruit basket and bottles of both still and sparkling water waiting in the room upon arrival—every detail is designed to make guests feel cared for. The 24-hour room service adds an extra layer of comfort.

The staff go to extraordinary lengths to ensure every stay is seamless. During my visit, it was raining as I left the spa, and a staff member immediately offered me a golf cart ride back to my room. When I mentioned that I had planned to walk the grounds, he left and returned almost instantly with a massive umbrella.

Another detail that sets this hotel apart is the flowers. Every single day, all arrangements—at the breakfast buffet, next to the elevators, by the bar—are replaced with fresh ones, a task handled by a staff member hired specifically for it. Their commitment to quality is truly next level.

As I mentioned earlier, the weather was unseasonably miserable during my stay, but I cannot wait to go back on a sunny day and finally experience the pool that teased me from my balcony.