For me, Alpine chalets conjure up images of single beds, scratchy blankets and gloomy decor. Then we discovered the bright, light and uber luxurious Secret Chalet.
The Secret Chalet (built in 2012) is spacious, modern and chic. Perched high above the valley floor it’s nestled amongst the mountains, forests and meadows of the Grand Massif ski area. We first visited in the spring when the cows would wander down the hill and pose through the generous west window, presenting a rustic ‘living picture’. Lazy afternoons were spent in the sway of the hammock and evenings ideal for French style barbeques. With so much to do in the local area we were spoilt for choice whether at home or out exploring.
This place had such a lovely ambience that we couldn’t wait to return, just 6 months later, to enjoy a thrilling winter break. This time we shared the chalet with 5 other couples, and found that after an exhilarating day on the slopes it was a warm and spacious place to spend sociable evenings round the long dining table. We complimented the day’s skiing with night air soaks in the 40 degree hot tub or chatting around the purpose built bar. The under floor heating kept us so cosy we had to turn the heat down, and that’s before we soothed our aches and pains in the sauna! When we fancied some quiet time the separate snug was ideal for reading or a movie, although , as it turns out, also easily able to accommodate a crowd eager to play quiz games on the Playstation and 40 inch TV.
Finally, rounding off the evening with a late night soak in one of the three baths before collapsing into the Egyptian cotton sheets set us up perfectly for another day of snowy adventure.
From US350+ per night
– The most amazing jacuzzi and valley views
– Close to one of the prettiest villages in France, Samoens
– No open fire for those winter nights
Chris & Hannah
Directors
The X2 Samui sits on the coast of the Thai island of Koh Samui, a short flight away from Bangkok. Away from the airport and heavily trafficked tourist areas, the X2 provides a sense of privacy and tranquility.
A highlight of the resort is the long and golden private beach that provides a sense of space, and where you can walk along the sand with your feet in turquoise waters. But most come here for the ultimate luxury – the fact that the majority of the stylish and well-appointed Villas have their own pool and waterfall feature. The Villas feel spacious, with crisp white linens, and facilities include Apple TV, a rain head shower and one of the deepest baths you’ll have ever seen.
They have an excellent Spa, with a range of luxurious treatments, and helpful and gracious staff. Should you choose to move from your Villa, you can also take part in a large number of activities including kayaking, releasing Thai Lanterns, beach dining, and many others.
From US200+ per night
– Most Villas have a large private terrace and a pool
– Rooms provide an indulgent sense of space, quiet and minimalist comfort
– Only one restaurant, so for variety you may need to leave the sanctity of the resort
Ellen Bard
Review Team
Entering into the lobby of the Hyatt Amritsar is like stumbling upon an oasis in the middle of the desert. The warm scent of incense and the richly hued lobby bring a sense of calm to an otherwise hectic scene outside. The chic, modern, decor continues in the rooms and suites with wood floors, deep soft beds, and rain showers ensuring comfort.
It’s the staff that really shine here though. Friendly smiles, attention to detail, and a desire for you to have a relaxing stay are the hallmarks of great service. Whether enjoying a cool gin and tonic in the book lined cocktail lounge or basking in the sun on a comfy poolside lounger there will always be someone nearby to ensure that you are well taken care of.
With a dining room set to prepare both international and local cuisine and a spa to soothe and pamper there really is no need to leave this perfect oasis.
From US115+ per night
– Excellent service
– Good value
– It’s a bit out of town
+91 183 287 1234
amritsar.hyatthotels@hyatt.com
Gillian and Jason
Review Team
In the heart of Bangkok, the Hotel Muse’s interior provides a sense that you’ve traveled to a different age. You’ll feel like a 19th Century explorer in the mix of Asian and European décor, surrounded by dark wooden trunks, teak floorboards and safari hats, and more so if you visit the hedonistic Speakeasy Bar on the 24th and 25th floors, a rooftop bar where you can enjoy a signature martini as you look across the Bangkok skyline and watch the sunset.
The hotel’s rooms continue the 19th Century explorer theme, whilst providing 21st Century comforts, including iPod docks, wall-mounted TVs and even a coffee machine!
Despite being a large hotel with 174 rooms, the discrete layout gives you a sense of space and privacy. With touches like welcome drinks ‘tasters’ whilst checking, it ensures your stay is luxurious from the word go.
From US160+ per night
– The breakfast is lavish
– Variety of stylish, good quality restaurants and bars within the hotel
– The décor has a slightly more masculine than neutral feel
– The pool more for dipping than swimming
Ellen Bard
Review Team