For unique rates and more information contact

Unique Family Travels 

Danielle@uniquefamilytravels.com

 

www.uniquefamilytravels.com

You are immediately in awe of the incredible colour Platte on display (and one of my favorite combinations), green, white and blue – green from the lush vegetation, the white pristine beaches and blue for the most amazing colour of the ocean – certainly no filter required here!

 

The beauty of this island is that it's a long, vertically shaped with the beach villas on one side, the water villas on the opposite side and in the middle is the most amazing, crystal-clear shallow lagoon with the lagoon retreat villas circled around it.

 

The lagoon is perfect for families especially for young children to play as the ocean is calm and shallow and home to many marine life. Around the lagoon you will find the Retreat Villas -one bedroom duplex villas perfect for couples and small families and offer sunrise and sunset views.

You enter the villa from the beach side and as its positioned on stilts as the swimming pool and deck sits over the ocean. With a large living room and an additional bathroom downstairs, upstairs is a beautiful large open plan bedroom with an oval bath directly in front of a non obstructed window with a view that goes for miles offering calming vistas of the blue, azure ocean.

All the villas on the island have this unique wall composed of shutters so you can open them to hear the sound of nature at its finest – the perfect white noise for relaxation.

 

Next to the lagoon and the Retreat villas is “The Retreat” a restaurant with a sunset bar and a swimming pool. It gives a very chic vibe with the built-in nets/hammocks sitting over the water, perfect for sunbathing and sipping on a cocktail.

 

The water villas are available in one and two bedrooms and at the very end of the jetty is a huge 3 bedroom for large, extended families. The beach villas offer family size, 1 and 2 bedrooms, some with beach views while the others sit a little back in totally privacy with their own beach access.

 

My favorite of all the villas is the stunning “Royal Beach Residence”. It's a three-bedroom villa with three buildings.  The master bedroom is upstairs in the main building and spread across the entire floor, meaning its huge, while downstairs is the living and dining area. One of the other bedrooms has its own private pool. The main pool is in the centre with a large outdoor seating and dining area. The entire villa is private with an abundant of trees around the villa with direct access to the beach via a narrow path.  This villa is great for families or a big group of friends. The villa comes with a private chef, nanny and if you stay over 5 nights your seaplane is complimentary. Staying in this villa, you will certainly feel like you are on your own private island escapism.

 

Restaurants

 

Café Umi is the all-day dining restaurant, located on the beach and next to the large swimming pool. It offers a buffet and al la carte breakfast, and, in the evenings, you can enjoy the teppanyaki experience.

 

The Fish Market is an interactive way of dining. It contains a great sunset bar and a private dining area inside the wine cellar. There is also a sunset bar.

 

The Lighthouse – is where you get al fresco Mediterranean cuisine. Start the evening at the top of the light house with 360 views of the island then move down to the restaurant for a family style serving meal. A great option as it fully encapsulates the charm of the island.

 

The Collective is the pizzeria, located next to the beach and pool and the perfect option for families and kids.

 

 

Planet Trekkers Kids Club.

As a mum of three I can spot a great kids’ club from a mile away. Not only does it have to cater for kids of all ages, but it has to be spacious with a great indoor and outdoor area. Planet Trekkers ticks all the boxes. The outdoor area has splash pools and climbing walls while the indoor activities revolve around marine life. Its also located only a few footsteps from the beach and the Umi restaurant, so parents can dine as the little ones play.

 

Avi Spa

The spa is set in 6 overwater villas offering an array of massages and treatments. The gym and yoga deck is next to the spa as is the location for the house reef.

 

Marine Life

The island offers its guests a house reef where the marine life and coral is abundantly thriving. As we were walking down the jetty, two spinner nose dolphins swam past us, leaving us in awe.

 

One of the standout features of Intercontinental Maldives is the Manta Trust, which is one of the worlds leading manta ray research organizations and they have their very own research centre based on this island. You must visit the team to learn more about these majestic giants. Enjoy a short boat ride with the marine biologists and the manta ray experts to see the rays and their pups glide through the ocean.

 

Do ask the team about the “adopt a manta ray” initiative so as you can stay in touch with the island team and track the works of these gentle giants once you leave the resort.

 

Its always the little touches that make an island special for me. At the Intercon they had put my initials on my bike and bikes are available in all sizes for kids. They had personalized a pillow on my bed. The skin care products are by Byredo, great touch. The island isn’t ultra luxury but its certainly up for there with the best of them – an added “luxury” I would say is that it’s a wonderful family resort where you can let your kids roam freely.

 

During my stay, I really fell in love with this island – it offers a great vibe, be it for couples, groups or families, with different areas you can enjoy depending on the mood you are in. I highly recommend a visit especially for families.

 

 

For unique rates and more information contact

Unique Family Travels 

Danielle@uniquefamilytravels.com

 

www.uniquefamilytravels.com

Soneva Secret 

Back in 2021 I was let into a secret shared with a small circle of people who were informed about the development of the new island from Sonu (the founder and visionary of Soneva).

Sonu explained his vision and how this island would be located in a more remote atoll and how it would only have 14 villas.

 

Now that I have witnessed for myself this remarkable vision come to life.  I can honestly say that Sonu and Eva have done it again, raising the proverbial bar to a stratospheric level and bringing with them an entire new meaning to a personalized luxury experience.

 

Maldives has something for everyone – if you prefer more refined and polished luxury experience rather than what Soneva specializes in which is raw, natural beauty, what they call “barefoot luxury” - I can totally understand that, but let me tell you, if you are looking for something that blows you off your feet and transports you to a level of travel very seldom experienced, than Soneva Secret is the answer!

 

Let’s see if I can tempt you with what I’m going to share and what I personally experienced during my stay on the island.

 

The location

Soneva Secret is located in the Makunudhoo Atoll, so remote that there are no other islands in sight – the closest is a local island.

A 75 min sea plane from Male and only a 30 min flight from Soneva Fushi (so the option I recommend to my clients is to team up your stay and visit both resorts)

 

As the water was a little choppy and being a windy day, our sea plane landed on the water’s edge, close enough to jump off the plane directly onto the beach - this was certainly a first for me and instantly gave me the impression that this was going to be an experience like no other.

 

The Service

From the moment your feet touch the sand you are introduced to your personal butlers – known in the Soneva world as your “Barefoot Guardians”.

They come fully prepared, fully aware of your personal preferences (as on booking your stay you will receive an email requesting all your preferences, such as your favorite scent, dietary preferences, favorite drinks, music, books, bathroom requirements, activities you enjoy etc etc) and believe me this is all you need to do pre-arrival and the rest is taken care off during your stay.

 

The Villas 

Soneva Secret has only 14 villas in total, which include 1-bedroom beach and water villas, 2 x 2 bedroom residences – beach and water and soon to be a one-of-a-kind - floating villa. The island is so exclusive that even when at maximum occupancy there will only be 64 guests spread across the island. This uber exclusivity adds to the mystique of the resort, where you feel like you are on your own personal luxury island.

 

The villas are all open plan and extremely spacious with concertina glass doors around the bedroom which fully open up bringing the outside in. The deck area is huge with a dining area, sunken seating area, a nice size swimming pool and a living room with TV. The kitchen is separate as is the

small fully equipped gym, and spa/massage area.

 

The one-bedroom villas have 2 bathrooms with outdoor showers and come with a secret door that opens up into another king bedroom. This means all of the 1 bedrooms are actually 2 bedrooms and the 2 bedrooms are 4 bedrooms.

In true Soneva style the water villas all come with a slide and all villas include their latest feature of the retractable roofs so you can stargaze from the luxurious comfort of your own bed.

 

The fully equipped kitchen has everything you require from their standard well stocked SMEG fridge, Nutri-Bullets and coffee machines. This is where your personal chef will prepare your meals – more on that below.

 

Dining

Soneva have always taken great pride in their dining experiences and the cuisine they offer to their guests, always setting trailblazing standards that entice foodies from all over the world - but Soneva Secret has taken this even further.

 

If you truly are a sophisticated foodie - you may not want to eat for a month before you arrive as I promise you this is a full-blown foodies’ paradise.

 

Breakfast is served at the Living Room – the heart of the island or it can also be served in your villa.

 

Soneva Secret offers its guests 14 different cuisines such as

South American, Italian, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Chinese 

Sri Lankan, Middle Eastern, Maldivian, Indian etc. The Chef will prepare your lunch at your villa whilst your barefoot guardian sets up your table and serves the food. There is no menu as every dish is designed to your preference with many courses to enjoy - the presentation of each dish is picture perfect and the taste is universally divine.

 

Your guardian will also schedule into your itinerary a Culinary Journey at “Out of this World’ - true to its name and thanks to the brilliant Brazilan Chef Henrique Lork.

The journey starts at the ‘Living Room’ with a glass of Delamotte champagne served by resident sommelier Rebecca and served with a amuse bouche. Then you will zip line to ‘Out of this World” which is 330 feet off the shoreline.

You will zipline straight into the extensive wine cellar and experience another unique creation by Chef Lork.

From there you will then go upstairs to the roof top and open kitchen where Chef Lork will prepare a wonderful 5 course delight, each aspect of this culinary journey is his interpretation of the “Universe” - each dish served on recycled glass plates designed and hand-blown by the chef himself at the custom Soneva Fushi glass studio.

 

Even for an expert traveler, this culinary experience is beyond anything I have seen or experienced so I can't truly give it enough justice and I have to let Chef Hork describe it:

 

 

“Perception of the Universe by Chef Henrique Lork”

 

Imagine the universe as a vast cosmic menu where each element from gravity to light plays its unique role. In a similar way our tongue is the organ responsible for the perception of flavours each associated with specific molecules that stimulate our taste receptors.

Just as astronomers explore the far reaches of space to understand the composition of the universe our taste buds explore the diversity of flavors. Astronomers seek to identify elements and substances in outer space while our taste buds distinguish between sweet, salty, sour and umami.

 

 

 

After this gastronomic delight and before or after your dessert, in true Soneva style, resident astronomer Moosa will take you on an actual star and planet gazing experience. Moosa showed me pictures on his phone from the last few nights as it had been a full moon - he compared his pictures with pictures taken by NASA and they were pretty impressive in how identical they were; this is what happens when you go live on the edge of the world, as far away as possible from the noise and pollution of mankind!

 

Marine life 

While standing on the Soneva Secret island, in one direction is Somalia and in the other direction is Sri Lanka, which means the island sits in a virtual ocean corridor for migrating whales. Since being on the island, which is only a few months, the marine team have spotted numerous blue whales and sperm whales – that just shows how untouched and magnificent this location is. The coral reefs are incredible and in more bloom than I have seen anywhere in the Maldives. They don’t have a house reef as such but the reefs are only 10 mins by boat. They have great dive sites close by and as the area is untouched you will get to experience incredible marine life and dive sights not many have witnessed.

 

Even while just walking on the beach, I saw many eagle and sting rays and there are many Manta-Ray cleaning stations around the lagoon. The team have spotted many mantas and turtles on a daily basis, they have also found a huge pod of dolphins (spinner and bottle nose).

 

While Maldives is getting cluttered around Male, the capital and the centre of this archipelago of islands, its now resorts and islands like Soneva Secret that are opening up the rest of this magical place to marine life lovers.

 

For Kids

The Den on the island is smaller than the Den at the other Soneva properties but that doesn't mean theres not much for kids to do. The team will keep your kids busy with lots of outdoor activities and they can shadow the marine biologists.

 

Soneva Fushi was the first island to have a zipline which soared above the trees on many short wires and also offers a dining experience. A fun experience for all and one my kids absolutely love. At Soneva Secret the zipline goes across the ocean from The Living Room to the Out Of This World restaurant.

You can also enjoy the zipline throughout the day (max weight 30kg). I know my kids would spend most of their day on the zipline as its so much fun!

 

Spa

As well as the individual and private spa rooms in each of the villas, Soneva Secret has a standalone spa where you can hear the ocean in the background, providing the perfect nature soundtrack as you drift into relaxation bliss.

 

 

Sustainability

Sustainability is one of Soneva’s core pillars and one of the key reasons why I am a huge advocate of intelligent luxury properties. Having known and worked with Soneva for many years, I have learnt so much about sustainability thanks to Sonu, Eva and their efforts at not only education but providing practical solutions.

 

Their DNA includes using ingredients which are local or grown onsite, plastics are banned and much of the resort is solar-powered. But Soneva’s commitment to long-term environmental and community projects is what truly sets them apart. A percentage of the proceeds from each guests’ stay are channeled into the Soneva Foundation, which supports reforestation efforts, provides communities with access to clean water and restores coral reefs, amongst many other endeavors. Actions have always spoken louder than words and Soneva is a shining example of harnessing the true power of sustainability and applying it to any aspect of luxurious hospitality.

 

 

 

With a nightly rate of approx. $5,000 for the 1 bedroom villa, including full board and all activities, I can assure you that you get more for your money than you can possibly imagine. A city hotel may charge you the same nightly rate - which may come with a beautiful view, butler and a wonderful breakfast, but let’s be honest, it’s not on a private island, with endless views, a dining experience like no other, your own chef and butlers, and a remoteness that re-connects you to your soul – it's honestly the best kept secret - its Soneva Secret. 

 

 

For unique rates and more information contact

Unique Family Travels 

Danielle@uniquefamilytravels.com

 

www.uniquefamilytravels.com

 

 

For unique rates and more information contact

Unique Family Travels 

Danielle@uniquefamilytravels.com

 

www.uniquefamilytravels.com

 The only way one can properly experience this part of Indonesia is by living on a boat and we were about to do that for 10 days! The wonderful owners and team of Allikai, a luxurious sailing yacht, had offered us their sailing home and we could not be more excited..

 

But first, how to get to this slice of paradise? It can be quite tricky as it’s a remote part of the world but there are plenty of local Indonesia airlines operating, you just have to find the best option. For us, coming from Bali, it made sense to take a 1 hour flight from Bali to Jakarta and then 4 hour flight to Sarong - just shows how big Indonesia is. But don’t be put off by the flight time as the result is truly amazing! 

 

Sarong was a bustling little airport and town, but the moment we walked out, we were met by the wonderful Eko from Alikai Voyages, whisked into a couple of cars and driven just 10 min to the nearby port; we were effortlessly moved to a speeding boat and after an exhilarating 10min ride we came upon the majestic Aliikai sailing yacht.

 

Allikai means “queen of the sea” and she certainly lives up to that exalting title. Comprising of 7 cabins, meaning only a maximum of 14 guests, it has the appropriate space and size to offer everything a boat needs and present it in a very luxurious feel. Joining us on the boat were two other couples from the US, meaning there were only 9 guests for this trip so sometimes it felt like we had the whole boat to ourselves. But the beauty of these live-on-board experiences is that you get opportunities to meet people from different parts of the world and bond through a collective adventure and that was certainly the case with us as 10 days later we can consider them as part of our family and people we will certainly keep in touch with for the rest of our lives.

 

As we settled in and checked out the yacht with the kids scrambling to find their preferred cabins, it was only 8am so we had breakfast and waited for the rest of the guests to arrive. Once everyone was onboard we started sailing and Eko (the Aliikai Team Leader) introduced us to the 15 crew members (from Alex and Bose the stewards, to the captain, the chef, the deckhands and dinghy drivers) who were about to become our family for the next 10 days. Everyone was pretty exhausted but excited for what was about to unfold and just on queue, as we began our journey and began leaving the Sorong port area, we were greeted by a breathtaking display of dolphins sliding and jumping through the waters – this sent an adrenaline rush through everyone – our Great Raja Ampat adventure was truly on!

 

Our first destination was at least a day away in what is known as the South Misool area, so we had nearly all the day to lounge around, get comfortable with the beautiful yacht, become familiar with the crew and the rest of the guests and start drifting into “boat life”. Our first lunch on board, elaborately setup on the large outside dining table, consisted of fish, chicken, salads, spring rolls and rice, all amazingly prepared. It was quite evident that food over the next 10 days was going to be simply remarkable. As we rapidly sailed towards our first destination, the beauty of Raja Ampat started coming into view, endless green islands dotting the blue horizon. Around sunset we stopped briefly so everyone could jump into the clear waters for a “sunset dip”. We then witnessed our first sunset, the sky turning fiery red and orange, sending goosebumps through everyone.

 

Dinner on the first night was soup, steak, vegetables and fish and salads. What I love about our travels is how the kids have become so sociable and have great conversations with all kinds of people. They first showed this when we were traveling on the Rovos Rail from Zimbabwe to Pretoria. Sitting in the lounge with other guests, they would introduce themselves and freely begin conversations. Similarly on the boat they immediately hit it off with our 2 US couples. The kids would chat endlessly and the guests were kind enough to play card games and ask the kids questions. 

It’s great to see when they can hold their own and share their own memories. 

 

While the kids had 2 cabins right in the front of the yacht. I had a room right at the back, a lovely cabin, with a queen size bed, a big terrace with two day beds and with the bed facing the terrace, I would just sit there and admire the view and watch sharks and dolphins swimming past. The inside of the cabin was like the rest of the boat, beautiful wooden floors and Boho chic furniture all white coverings, so spacious with lots of different areas to relax and communal areas for dining and for the movie nights under the stars. There was turn down service every night which after a sumptuous dinner and drinks, just felt divine, I would snuggle into my covers and stare out through the back, watching the islands whisk by as we effortlessly glided along the flat waters.

 

For the next 4 days we were going to explore the area around Misool which is basically the southern part of Raja Ampat. To make things more interesting and adventurous, this was also the area where there was essentially no WiFi. For 4 days we were truly cutoff from the rest of the world. It was an exhilarating and also a nervous feeling for me as on one side I fretted about my clients not having access to me while the other side of me implored me to just let it go and just experience the next 4 days for just what they were: a chance to disconnect from the material work and deeply connect with the nature world.

 

And wow did we reconnect with Mother Nature. Over the next 4 days, all we did was dive. Up to 3-4 times a day, with the divers going for night dives, we just simply slipped into a routine of diving/snorkeling, eating, sleeping – rinse and repeat. We would move the yacht around to various spots which would then be the base from which we would take smaller dinghy’s to the actual dive spots, the scuba divers jumping in and going deep meanwhile we donning our snorkels and fins and exploring the magical marine life. The kids became so comfortable with them easily free diving, getting close to the coral reef and playing with the various fish and fauna. On Day 3, we got up early to dive/snorkel and see manta rays – the gentle giants of the underworld, gliding along silently and mesmerizing us with their effortless movements. On Day 4, we changed it up a bit, going for a exhilarating hike up a sharp mountain, reaching the top from which we looked down onto a “Love Lagoon”, a heart shaped pool of water, strikingly pearl blue, surrounded by ultra green mountains – the quintessential postcard image that perfectly reflected the unique beauty of Raja Ampat.

 

Early on day 5, we grabbed our snorkeling equipment and headed towards these special caves that get darker and darker as we swam more inwards (requiring flashlights) but then saw this blinding white light in the distance which turned into this wide gap in the cliff side, opening the caves onto the rest of the island. Quite the adventure as swimming in the dark can be quite a unique experience. Then we hiked up another mountain, navigated towards the peak and from there treated ourselves to the incredible views of the Raja Ampat archipelagos in all their glory. 

After a quick pit stop back at the yacht for lunch we continued our adventures with a simply surreal experience. We were heading to the “Jellyfish Lake”, which was literally what it meant and we were going to swim in it! I have to be honest I wasn’t that excited to swim in jellyfish lake given its name but we were told the jellyfish don’t sting. My nervous apprehension was tempered slightly by the exciting rock climbing route/trail we had to take in order to access the jellyfish lake. Well this was pretty amazing. Millions of jellyfish of all sizes. As you entered the lake it felt quite normal, but as you swam more towards the middle, you started seeing the jellyfish. Next minute, you are simply surrounded. These fascinating creatures were everywhere and you had no choice but to let them envelop you. They gently caressed you, bouncing off your skin. Increadible sensation.The twins had no fear whatsoever and helped me and Amara conquer our fears of jellyfish. This was easily up there in terms of the most unique and surreal activities I have ever done. And another powerful reminder of the various incredible complexities of Mother Nature.

 

Halfway through our 10 day adventure and we were heading to the central part of Raja Ampat which meant an 18 hour sail through the night. But bright and early on Day 6, we woke to another part of paradise and finally (for some!) Wi-Fi. As everyone on the board scrambled for their phones, even the crew finding time to check messages, it was interesting to reflect on what we had done and not done in the previous days without Wi-Fi. Did we actually miss it? And did we actually miss anything?

 

Day 7 consisted of an early morning snorkel/dive and then moving to a specific dive site which was known to be a Manta Ray cleaning station. Here we saw lots of mantas, swimming majestically beneath us. After lunch we sailed to another area for a dive and then sunset drinks on a nearby sand bank - we all started playing games - clearly started by the kids -  with group tag involving the guests and crew being the most fun and funniest. Kids really do bring out the fun side of any situation – imagine playing tag literally in the middle of the ocean!

 

Day 8 was Beach Day! A full day on a private beach. The crew set up beds, umbrellas, a volley ball court, a well stocked bar and even racked the sand to perfection! We enjoyed paddle boarding, kayaking and donuts from the back of the speed boat. Then it was time for a special adventure. We had asked beforehand if the kids could be introduced to scuba diving and Eko obviously obliged and agreed to conduct their first “fun dive” especially as he was a Dive Master and very adept at handling multiple first divers. Amara was so excited as shes wanted to dive for a while while the twins were initially slightly apprehensive and nervous but Eko was such a pro, managing to relax them, building up their confidence and then just getting on with it. 30 mins and 7 meters depth later they were back feeling very accomplished and proud of themselves. It certainly seems that we will be doing more trips that revolve around deep sea diving! That evening we were back on the island for an incredible bbq dinner as the crew had removed the beds and set up the dinner table, with lights. A beautiful setting with exhilarating food. After dinner, we had a good, old fashioned party around the fire, with the crew and especially the chef (who was an accomplished guitarist as well) serenading us with Indonesian classics.

 

After the full on activities of day 8 and our Raja Ampat adventure nearing an end, Day 9 was a much more chilled affair, as some of the guests headed for a morning hike and some bird watching whilst others lounged around the boat and I started the thankless chore of packing, the kids already saying they didn’t want to leave! For our last activity we headed towards the famous “blue lake”, a shimmering, ice cold, crystal blue water oasis that required taking the speed boat deep into a water jungle, ditching the speed boat and then traversing on foot, through marshes and jungles towards this water hole that sprung up in the middle of the jungle.It was so pretty but oh so cold.

Back on the boat for our last dinner on board but the crew wasn’t done yet as they surprised all three kids with birthday cakes and another impromptu singalong. Day 10 was a melancholy day as we headed back to Sarong in order to leave the boat and go to the airport.

 

We had never experienced a live-on-board travel itinerary before and we had wondered if 10 days was a bit too much yet at the end we all wanted to stay on longer - we could have easily stayed another 10 days. And even though Raja Ampat and its captivating beauty played a large part, in equal measure, it was Allikai and its crew which made this trip that extra special and one that we will not only never forget but which now sits up there on the “best ever” list. As a luxury travel expert and being fortunate enough to have experienced some of the best travel around the world, I tend to very careful in assigning rankings and preferences but in the case of Raja Ampat and Allikai I do have to say that this ranks in the “Top 3” of my experiences so far.

 

For more information on this “bucketlist” experience, please contact Unique Family Travels; we have an excellent partnership with Allikai and I’m sure we will create something that will be a true luxury travel wonderland.

 

Please Note: Days of sailing vary. Raja Ampat is normally Nov - April

While the Komodo islands are in the summer months.

 

For unique rates and more information contact Unique Family Travels 

Danielle@uniquefamilytravels.com

 

www.uniquefamilytravels.com

As you arrive at the property you are greeted with the most beautiful welcome area with huge wooden doors opening into a tropical haven. Once checked in the buggy will take you to your villa which is located down the hill towards the ocean.

 

Rooms

The 71 spacious suites and villas have been covered with eco-friendly roof gardens and embedded into the jungle landscape. Categories range from hillside pavilion suites with plunge pools that can be interconnecting and two-bedroom villas with infinity pools, grassy courtyards and access straight onto the beach.

Entering the villa you are greeted by a very neutral pallet of soft furnishing with a hint of baby blue along with a black wooden floor, providing a very chic interior. The main large room is cleverly divided into a living room and bedroom with a giant mirror giving the illusion of bringing the outside in.

Throughout the entire villa going into the bathroom there’s a touch of brass fixtures, from lights to the bathroom faucets. The bathroom also comes with an outdoor bath and shower. All the villas are smart living and run on a central touch button system for the lights, music and blinds.

The outdoor area has a nice private pool, with a large day bed and a seating area for in-villa dining .

You can enjoy the beautiful beach or the hotel’s large gorgeous swimming pool which is wrapped around palm trees and floating platforms. The pool is split into sections for all ages including an adults only pool. The staff are all well dressed wearing panama hats and a chic uniform. The stunning Mai restaurant & pool deck is very Tulum style with elegant dining areas and a great menu.

 

Kids Club

 

Hidden in the heart of the resort, out of sight but within easy reach of the main swimming pool you will find the Explorer's Club for children aged three to eight. There's a terrific variety of activities, a wooden pirate ship, splash area all with a focus on sustainability and cultural awareness – Thai language classes, umbrella painting, picking herbs, digging for worms and tree planting. Along with cooking classes in the outdoor large kitchen children can easily idle the day away in this thoughtfully designed space.

 

 

Asaya Spa

On the hillside, Asaya, the Rosewood Group's first spa concept, is already one of the best in a country and I would not hesitate to say its truly up there in terms of world-class wellness facilities. More than just a pretty space, it offers life and relationship coaching, holistic bodywork therapies and bespoke retreats designed to help you eat, sleep and generally live a happier and healthier lifestyle.

Dining

Red Sauce is the all day dining area and the location for breakfast. I really loved the breakfast as you can enjoy part buffet part menu. The menu offered such healthy items such as power balls, protein bars, overnight oats, detox drinks, elixir shots and a large selection of gluten free items. In the evening the menu offers Italian cuisine.

The Shack is a laid back dining experience with freshly prepared seafood

 

Ta Khai – designed to look like a rustic Thai village, its situated next to the ocean  and delivers an authentic array of dishes with the daily fisherman’s catch being a crowd favorite. Not much else needs to be said when the following accomplishments adorn the front door:

2019 MICHELIN GUIDE, 2020 MICHELIN GUIDE, 2021 MICHELIN GUIDE, 2022 MICHELIN GUIDE; 2019 TRIP ADVISOR CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE

 

 

 

 Green Credentials

This hidden gem of a property also has impeccable green credentials –

ecologically-sound architecture and sustainable practices such as 100 per cent rainwater harvesting, coral reef restoration to the largest solar energy system in Phuket as well as villas topped with roof gardens to help naturally cool the interiors.

Constructed from indigenous stone and timber, its minimalist lines merge into thick jungle greenery; tin-roofed restaurants sit under hundred-year old banyan trees; and retractable glass panels open onto Andaman Sea views, with hanging ferns and fabulous rattan sculptures.

 

Overview

 

Rosewood Phuket is a very chic family friendly resort, which ticks every box for the modern traveller. I highly recommend the property, from the climate conscious traveller bringing a large family to a travel savvy couple just seeking a little down time. Rosewood Phuket carries that incredible energy of making everyone that walks though the door, immediately feel like they are home.

 

 

To book your stay please contact:

Danielle@uniquefamilytravels.com

www.uniquefamilytravels.com

 

The hotel's showpiece is its insanely photogenic “Hilltop” infinity pool, simply let the day pass while enjoying the incredible views directly in front of you. On the same side of the island is a gorgeous white beach with some great snorkeling on its rocky corners. Other activities on the island is a 4 hour bike tour around the island. During my bike tour the rain came and went which added to the fun, 26km of riding up and down hills, through the paddie fields and rubber plantations and stopping at a waterfall.

Hiking trails are around the property, a Muay Thai booking ring on the waters edge and of course yoga classes add to the active, healthy vibe.

You can also enjoy an hour’s kayak through the mangroves, where we saw snakes lying on the tree branches.

You can’t stay on the island and not enjoy a day trip to one of the close by islands. You can book a long boat or private yacht for some island hopping -  Phi Phi Island, James Bond Island and the islands of  Krabi.

 

 

Villas

With an emphasis on space, privacy and nature, each of the thatched-roof villas ramble across different levels, with large decks, outdoor salas, dining areas and a private swimming pool. Every villas comes with it's own GEM (guest experience manager) for all your concierge needs.

The interior is designed with drift wood, a beautiful bed in the centre of the room, a sunken bathtub in the huge bathroom along with an out door shower.

The entry level rooms are beautifully located in the lush jungle but the sea view villas are the ones to book providing the most incredible views of Phang Nga Bay so you can enjoy the sunrise and sunset. I would say for two guests book “The View” an Ocean Panoramic villa and for large families “The Ocean Retreat” or “The Hideaway” as they are real Robinson Crusoe tree houses!

 

 

 

Dining

The Living Room is the International all day alfresco dining restaurant located close to the beach which serves a breakfast buffet with healthy options direct from a menu. For dinner every night the menu changes for wok, grill and buffet options.

 

The Hilltop - when the sun goes down, the sun loungers are replaced with tables and chairs for the dinner set up. It's the exclusive restaurant on the island. Enjoy drinks at the bar and the feast of a sustainably crafted menu all while enjoying the incredible view.

During the day you can order from the lunch menu.

 

The Den offers Asian tapas and is a great place for a cocktail or two.

 

If you’re looking for a more romantic or private dining experience then you can enjoy in villa dining next to your swimming pool on the terrace of your villa or a private ding experience set up around the island.

 

Don't forget to visit the all day ice-cream parlor next to the Living Room and work your way through the yummiest selection of flavors.

 

 

Spa

Unless you have been hiding under a rock, you will know that Six Senses Spas are known to be top-notch when it comes to their spa and holistic offerings, and this resort is no exception.

Designed as a small stilted village at the heart of the resort, treatments here range from energizing Thai massages to multi-day immersive programs including private chakra meditation and detox diets. There's a juice bar, and an alchemy room where guests can blend their own herbal steam balls and massage oils.

 

 

 

Children’s Activities

The island doesn’t have a kids club they have something better… The Junior Eco Warrior Club which offers a daily activity plan encouraging the kids to be out doors in nature and explore the island. They can go to the farm to learn how to milk goats, collect eggs and a cooking class. There’s also a weekly schedule for the beach cinema.

 

 

Sustainability

Sustainability is at the core of everything they do. Its not just a word that they float around, Sustainability is in their DNA.

They offer guests lemongrass drinking straws and reusable glass water bottles. Drinking water is sourced from the deep wells around the resort.

Guests are given a tour of the small farm which is home to goats, chickens, hens, ducks. There’s also a recycling plant where old furniture is made into nesting boxes for the local hornbill population.

Notes are left around the villas to remind you to turn off all the lights, how to reduce laundry and no plastic items will be found in the mini bar.

 

 

Overview

Having experienced this incredible offering before at another Six Senses property, I can definitely state that I’m a person who really loves the rawness of the island while still offering its guests a 5-star luxury escape. If you’re expecting to be in a resort with AC’s and marble floors than this is not the property for you. However, experiencing Six Senses Yao Noi will surely change your mind and encourage you to book more holidays in nature without giving up on any of your luxury needs.

 

 

 

 To book your stay please contact:

Danielle@uniquefamilytravels.com

www.uniquefamilytravels.com

 

Rooms

The 60 pool villas are all raised on stilts and ocean facing .

The one bedroom villas are extremely spacious with a infinity pool and deck for outside dining.

One is immediately greeted by the grandeur of the king-sized bed which is under a high gabled ceiling. This opens up onto a double vanity bathroom and wardrobes that then lead into a huge bathroom with rain shower and an oval shaped tub. The floor to ceiling windows open up on to the deck bringing the outside in. The villa is complimented by teak furniture, quietly eclectic art and moody lighting. The little touches in your room at turn down service have the quintessential and trademark wonderful FS touch.

If your looking for the higher rooms go with numbers 200/300 as they are close to the spa and the main hilltop restaurant.

 

Residences

There are 10 large residences with 3/4/5 bedrooms which are simply stunning. Huge infinity swimming pools, with separate buildings for the bedrooms and kitchen and dining areas, all located around the heart of the property; and all always overlooking the majestic ocean vistas.

I noticed around the property there were these stunning authentic doors, especially in the residences acting as the double doors opening up into the bedrooms.

For multi generational families traveling together, these are perfect, as you can all be together yet still manage to have your own space. A private chef is on hand at all times, so all you need to do is relax and take in the incredible views.

 

Dining

Koh Thai Kitchen is the restaurant on the hilltop where they serve breakfast and then in the evenings Thai cuisine.

Pla Pla is the beach restaurant offering scrumptious seafood and meat dishes.

In villa dining is a great option as they will set up your villa terrace so you can relax and enjoy your own private views.

Cocorum is the pool bar with great snacks and easy dishes. Once a week there is a bbq dinner on the beach, which is beautifully lit so you can still manage to stargaze.

 

Family Friendly

“Kids for all Seasons” have a tree house located on the beach with a jungle gym inside and arts and crafts. For the older kids the Beach House is a great chill out area with a pool table, table football and table tennis table. 

 

Activities

Like most first class resorts, many water sports are on offer from SUP to Kayaks. The on site marine biologist will assist with snorkeling tours and educate on the surrounding coral and marine life

The pretty Secret Garden Spa has five treatment rooms, there are two tennis courts, the gym is well equipped and there’s a Muay Thai boxing ring and a yoga platform, both with stunning views.

The concierge will book a boat tour so as you can visit the neighboring islands which is a great way to spend the day.

 

The beach is small, untouched with white powder sand. Day beds are scattered around in front of the main swimming pool which is elevated and has a bar area. You will also spot a couple of massage beds on the beach, book a treatment while listening to the sounds of the ocean waves.

 

Service

All over their global portfolio, Four Seasons motto is Luxury is our love language and this is emphatically amplified at Four Seasons Koh Samui. Staff greet you by name, nothing is too much to ask from the friendly staff and if you don't fancy walking down to the beach and back up to your villa, the golf carts are on hand and very quick.

 

Over view

Having stayed at Four Seasons Seychelles the Koh Samui version has a similar look and feel, which ticks every box for me. Breath taking views, incredible villas and impeccable service. There’s nothing quite so beautiful as cliff side properties that merge the lush green hues with the blues of the ocean. That combo is hard to resist.

 

Bonus

A great way to experience, Thailand,  The Land of Smiles is by staying at each of the three Four Seasons sophisticated resorts. Explore the diverse cultures, landscapes and experiences as you journey through a lush valley of rice fields and an incomparable glamping destination in the North, to the white sand beaches of the South.

As different as they are, these three resorts in Thailand will fill your soul, clear your mind and leaving you wanting more.

 

Start at Four Seasons Koh Samui then move to the Chiang Rai staying at the Four Seasons Golden Triangle in a luxury tent in the jungle where you can enjoy nature and get up close and personal with elephants, then move on to experience traditional accommodation set amongst the paddie fields at Four Seasons Chiang Mai.

 

Thailand, through the lens of Four Seasons, is quite clearly the perfect vacation solution.To book your stay please contact:

Danielle@uniquefamilytravels.com

www.uniquefamilytravels.com

 

“Wellness permeates all that we do at Soneva: our sustainable, barefoot philosophy that reconnects our guests to the earth; our life-affirming natural locations; our delicious yet health-focused cuisine; and our life-changing guest experiences,” says Sonu Shivdasani, CEO and Co-Founder of Soneva. “Soneva Soul is the culmination of everything we have learned since we launched our spa at Soneva Fushi in 1995, the very first resort spa in the Maldives. Much like Soneva, at Soneva Soul we are pioneering an approach that combines apparent opposites to offer our guests a transformative and personalised wellbeing experience.”

 

Offering each guest a personalised pathway to health, happiness and fulfilment, Soneva Soul will encompass resort spas; movement, sleep, yoga and meditation programmes; wellness and lifestyle products; a global network of acclaimed wellness specialists; and innovative, regenerative modalities and medical services. As the brand grows, it will tailor integrated care plans guided by the principle of ‘lifestyle evolution’, helping guests realise their utmost potential and achieve their long-term wellness goals.

 

The new Soneva Soul Island Spa at Soneva Jani elevates guests’ wellness experience far beyond the pampering treatments and massages found at a typical wellness centre or resort spa. Linked by raised walkways that wind among the trees, the three-level complex is designed in perfect harmony with its stunning setting on the eastern side of the island. Complementing the existing Over-water Spa at The Gathering, it includes open-air treatment rooms, consultation suites, therapeutic biomodulation rooms, a state-of-the-art gym and juice bar. A yoga pavilion and meditation platform sit high above the tree line, offering 360-degree views across the turquoise private lagoon.

 

The coming weeks will also see the opening phase of an expanded Soneva Soul resort wellness centre at Soneva Fushi. In the longer term, Soneva will also work with like-minded partners to launch one-of-a-kind wellness destinations across the world. Between now and early 2022, each Soneva Soul will establish a permanent team that includes an Ayurvedic doctor, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, integrative medicine doctor and highly trained therapists. The resident team will be complemented by a network of international visiting wellness specialists, selected for their expertise across a full spectrum of wellness practices, healing, fitness and spirituality.

 

Working in partnership with each guest, Soneva Soul’s wellness experts will curate a wellness journey that supports every aspect of their life. This includes rest, recovery and regeneration as well as detoxification, movement, and optimisation, following principles such as balance, mindful living and self care.

 

Based upon outcomes that target guests’ specific needs, the treatment menu at each Soneva Soul unites traditional wellness philosophies, such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbalism and medicinal mushrooms, with cutting-edge treatment methodologies and therapeutic biomodulation, which will include heart rate variability testing, platelet-rich plasma (PRP therapy), nutrient IV therapy, cryotherapy, ozone therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Each Soneva Soul wellness journey can start at any point – whether an individual is looking to kick-start a healthier lifestyle, heal following an illness or injury, improve their physical or mental performance, or simply relax and indulge.

 

Led by master fitness trainers and bodywork experts, the Soneva Soul Movement Programme balances functional gym-based fitness, with natural free movement techniques and experiential fitness, surrounded by nature – such as jungle gyms and deep-water aquatic fitness sessions. Yoga, Pranayama Breathing and Meditation Programmes reinforce the link between mind, body and soul, with one-on-one and group sessions with resident yoga masters and renowned visiting experts. And an expert-led Sleep Programme creates a personalised programme for healthier long-term sleeping habits.

 

Read my blog post:

 

 

Soneva Jani: http://www.uniquefamilytravels.com/2021/07/26/soneva-jani-2021/

 

Soneva Fushi: http://www.uniquefamilytravels.com/2021/07/03/soneva-fushi-maldives-2/

 

Soneva Kiri: http://www.uniquefamilytravels.com/2019/12/02/soneva-kiri/

 

Soneva Jani Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5aj0zyOVoGs&t=1s