From the outside the Lyall hotel looks pretty posh- all polished brass and stylish lettering. But here the formality ends as the staff greet you with exceptional warmness which reflects that this is a small owner run boutique hotel where everyone pitches in to make sure their guests are very well looked after. Thick carpets, muted lighting and original artwork give it a cosy vibe, and you can easily picture yourself curled up in one of the plush sofas reading a magazine by one of the fires central to each floor.
Each of the 40 rooms is actually a suite, with a leafy balcony, a spacious bathroom, a convenient kitchen and TVs you can watch from the lounge, the bed or bath. The hotel is situated on a quiet tree lined street minutes from the hub of South Yarra- so perfect for boutique shopping, grabbing a bite or even an afternoon people watching from a street-side terrace.
From US280+ per night
– Great location, close to the city and shops/ restaurants
– Spacious rooms with kitchen
– Amazing a-la-carte breakfast
– Not enough outdoor space
Chris & Hannah
Directors
Most luxury seekers have heard of Bora Bora, a spectacular island in the Pacific nation of French Polynesia. Its where you go if you want to join the crowds looking for that perfect jewel of rock-salt hued sands and infinity-pool-blue lagoons. But here’s a secret. There’s a place, not far from there, where you get the dream without the hype; the splendour without the tarnish; the raw beauty without the golf carts. But don’t worry, you still get to see the sunset over Bora Bora every evening with your much anticipated cocktail.
The Vahine Island Resort is a very special place. It comes at a price, but it does have a fabulously deserted –paradise quality– combined with all the highest standards of comfort and luxury. It’s a small resort, just 6 beach bungalows, 3 over water bungalows and serene palm fringed beach hugging most of the shore. Whichever room you choose you’ll find yourself content to while away hours gazing at the breathtaking beauty of your surroundings.
From US$550+ per night
– Stunning location on a paradise island
– Amazing food – 3 course evening meal
– Friendly staff and high level of service
– Plenty of activities to do during the day
– Expensive but this is a ONCE in a lifetime destination
Chris & Hannah
Directors
If you’re looking for stunning views in an unpretentious setting in the legendary Bay of Islands we may have found just what you have in mind.
If nothing else, New Zealand is known for its wow-factor landscapes and the Crisdon castle definitely uses its assets to full advantage. Perched on top of a hill in an unassuming suburb, the panorama takes in the changing moods of a tidal harbour, a mossy blanket of headland reserves and a big, big sky.
The accommodation itself ticks the right boxes if you like tasteful decor in natural tones, the romance of candlelight and natural oils, and sink-into-deep- slumber soft bedding. Check your room has the best views, some are tucked back a little. It’s worth paying that bit extra for the real deal.
From US170+ per night
– Stunning views over the Bay of Islands
– Stylist room and super comfortable bed
– Great cooked breakfast..Eggs Benedict!
– Friendly and helpful owners
– Around 10 minutes outside of Paihia
Chris & Hannah
Directors