Royal Hotel Sanremo, Italy – Luxury and Relaxation with spectacular Sea Views

A Jewel in the Heart of the Italian Riviera with Fascinating History

The Riviera of Flowers (Riviera dei Fiori) is blessed with an unusually mild, subtropical climate with 2 900 hours of sunshine per year. Since the middle of the 19th century, German emperors, Russian tsars, and English lords have spent the European wintertime in Sanremo – one of the most prestigious resorts on the Italian Riviera.

The Royal Hotel Sanremo is an oasis of relaxation amidst the colorful hustle of the Riviera.  It is situated in a prime spot – right on the beach in a subtropical park on the palm-fringed sea promenade. The beach and the historic city center are just a stone’s throw away. You can smell the scent of flowers everywhere, and the view from the suites, the restaurants and the pool overlooking the Mediterranean Sea is breathtaking.

This historic, famous hotel celebrated its 145th anniversary in 2017. It was built in 1872, and many celebrities, aristocrats, rulers and discerning guests from all over Europe have stayed here.

The service is very attentive and the staff friendly. Right from the first moment, you know that you will be well taken care of.

“The magnificence of the past and the comfort of the present combined together for your pleasure” -Oscar Wilde

Amidst the Mediterranean flair and the abundance of tropical plants prevails a very relaxing and luxurious atmosphere – the charm of the Belle Époque is still very much alive here.

Pool

The famous architect, Giò Ponti, designed the big seawater pool in 1948. In summer, it is heated to 27 °C and offers numerous lounging areas and great sea views.

“I hate rectangular pools. Are lakes and rivers rectangular? I like to design swimming pools fit for water nymphs, where you can jump in from a tree, with a bar on the water’s edge.”“ -GioPonti, 1948

Next to the pool is the Pool bar Corallina. The bar offers light lunches, pizza and much more.

The Kid’s Club is also located in a small area, close to the pool, so that parents can also relax and unwind.

Beach

The lively sea promenade separates the hotel from the beach. As the hotel is situated somewhat higher, you can hardly see the street from the pool. From the restaurants, the road is not visible at all.

The beach opposite the hotel can be reached in just 5 minutes on foot. There are public beach chairs with umbrellas reserved for hotel guests. Important: Don’t forget your towels!

Rooms & Suites

All rooms are individually furnished and offer either great views of the Mediterranean Sea or the mountains.

Every room has its own unique style, and a variety of fabrics and colors have been used. Over the years, it has been gradually renovated.

“There are only two ways to live your life: Either as though nothing is a miracle, or as though everything is.”” -Albert Einstein

Executive Suite Sissi 

“One last, long look at you, beloved sea! Then farewell, however difficult it may be.” -Elizabeth of Bavaria

The suite, loved by Empress Sissi, has a formal living room with dining area, a bedroom, a massive terrace with Jacuzzi and a marble bathroom.

Junior Suite Deluxe

“The little luxuries are the most significant.” -Alfonso Signorini

The 38 square meter junior suite, has a large, private terrace with a fantastic view.

The spacious suite with its huge bed successfully combines the modern with the more traditional.

Since the suite is on the 5th floor, you virtually stay at the same height at which the albatrosses fly. They come flying by all day long. Really cool!

Restaurants & Bar

Creative, Mediterranean cuisine by Chef Moreno Picchietti is served in all the restaurants.

Bar delle Rose
Cozy bar with live music in the evening

Breakfast 
Breakfast can be enjoyed in the Fiori di Murano restaurant, or outside Il Giardino, with a stunning view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Lunch /Corallina
Pool bar with snacks and pizza for lunch by the pool.

Dinner /Fiori di Murano
Gourmet restaurant with panoramic views of the ocean ​​and exquisite Murano glass chandeliers.

Dinner /Gourmet Il Giardino
The romantic open-air restaurant is perfect for candlelight dinners.

Olive Oil Tasting Menu 

The Olive Oil Tasting Menu is a great way to taste the subtle differences between the various olive oils of the region that are among the best in Italy. Each olive oil is carefully paired with a course of the 4-course menu. At Taggiasca-Olive you can then buy your favorite.

A particular highlight is the warm Chocolate cake, instead of the usual oozing chocolate, its center is made of olive oil!

With the view of the full moon and the song of two wonderful singers in the background, this was the perfect romantic evening.

Royal Wellness

At the beautiful spa, you can enjoy the Jacuzzi, the Vitarium at 60 °C, the Turkish steam bath with its mother of pearl mosaic, and afterwards unwind in the pleasant relaxation area with its warm colors.

Quality treatments, rituals, and massages with the exclusive Mei SPA line are offered. The natural Phyto-cosmetic ingredients are all extracted from medicinal plants in Italy.

There is also a hairdressing salon, where manicures and pedicures are offered. Elisa’s pedicure was excellent!

Honeymoon & Wedding

This idyllic atmosphere is perfect for weddings. The wedding ceremony, for example, can take place under this gazebo.

Sanremo

From the hotel, you can explore the picturesque town of Sanremo. It is situated in a beautiful bay (Riviera di Ponente) between the nearby French border and the city of Genova.

There is a fantastic market hall near the Via de Benedetti, where fresh local fruit, vegetables, mushrooms, ham, olive oils and much more are on offer.

Conclusion

In our opinion, there is nothing more beautiful than the view of the ocean, and here, you have a truly remarkable one. The hotel has a friendly and relaxed ambiance. You can really spend a few more days here – relax on the beach or by the pool, explore the quaint little villages or combine it, as we did, with a trip through the picturesque Liguria.

Rooms: 126 rooms including 13 suites
Flight duration: Non-stop from Dusseldorf to Nice in less than 2 hours (Unfortunately, we cannot recommend Euro Wings as our flight was canceled a day before departure!)
Road trip:  1140 km from Dusseldorf (Approximately 10.5 – 13 hours by car)
Transfer: It is about 45 minutes by car (65 km) from Nice Airport, about 90 minutes (130 km) from Genoa Airport and about 30 minutes (45 km) from Monte Carlo.
Check-in / check-out: 15:00/ 12:00
Air Temperature: 4 – 27°C
Water Temperature: 12 – 23°C
Best Travel Time: All year round. The region has a mild climate throughout the year, as the northern Apennines and the Alps, deter the cold from the north.
Time difference: none
Price: From 311 EUR / night including breakfast
Activities: Tennis, mini golf, excursions on request, golf in the “Golf Club degli Ulivi ”
Special offers: ROYAL WELLNESS EXPERIENCE incl. 150 EUR spa voucher from 439 EUR / night. This includes: a 2-night stay, a bottle of sparkling wine with fruit basket in your room upon arrival, breakfast buffet with organic corner, 150 EUR voucher, entrance to the wet area of the Royal Wellness Spa, with hydromassage pool (18+), massage showers, Turkish bath, Vitarium, relaxation area with herbal tea and juice corner, fitness room, Wi-Fi in the hotel and an outside parking space.
Special features: Huge seawater pool, located directly opposite the beach, individual and spacious rooms and suites with great sea views
Perfect for: Couples, families, gourmets, honeymooners

Royal Hotel Sanremo
C.so Imperatrice 80
18038 Sanremo (IM), Italy
Tel. +39 0184.5391
Fax. +39 0184.661445
reservations@royalhotelsanremo.com
www.royalhotelsanremo.com

Leading Hotels of the World

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Please Note: The Royal Hotel Sanremo kindly sponsored our stay. Thank you! The opinions expressed in this article are as always 100% our own!

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Nihi Sumba Island, Indonesia – Wild Romance in the Tropical Luxury Hideaway

Luxury Tourism & Social Engagement in an Exotic Jungle Paradise

Nihi Sumba Island by Christopher Burch – wild, romantic and perfect for anyone that would like to escape to paradise. This exotic luxury hideaway can be found secluded in a beautiful bay in the middle of the tropical jungle on Sumba Island. In true Sumbanese style, it offers luxury and relaxation to romantics, adventurers and surfers with a private beach and a view to die for.

After the American entrepreneur, Christopher Burch, fell in love with Sumba himself after visiting several times,  he decided to buy the small surfer retreat from fellow American couple, Claude and Petra Graves in 2012. Together with the hotelier James McBride, he completely transformed it into the luxurious and romantic hideaway with a charismatic profile – Nihi Sumba Island, formerly known as Nihiwatu. Chris strives to preserve the innocence of the island and in spite of all its luxury, keep its carbon footprint as low possible. He, for example, bought an additional 230 hectares of land for nature conservation, of which only a maximum of 26 hectares should ever be built on.

The travel world is ready for change. The idea of a traditional five-star resort, in which we bring all our expectations of glamour and home with us, then sequester ourselves in a gated property that tries to deliver them, is fading. Instead, we increasingly want basic humble things and meaningful connections. And of course, people want authenticity.”
-Chris Burch

Luxury holiday with Purpose
Sumba Island is twice as big as Bali, but with only 750,000 inhabitants sparsely populated. To date, the island has preserved its original beauty and Sumbanese culture – wildly romantic, like Bali 30 years ago. However, many people are still impoverished on this remote and untouched island. Nihi Resort now offers employment to some of them and thus the prospect of a better life.

With almost 400 employees (mostly locals) for the 32 villas, Nihi has an impressive staff-guest ratio. And thanks to the Sumba Foundation, the core of Nihi Sumba, it also makes an essential contribution to the local people as far as malaria control is concerned. In many places employees can now also build new houses for themselves and their families.

“The Edge of Wildness”

Already at Denpasar airport in Bali you will be picked up by one of the friendly Nihi staff members and escorted to the gate or the lounge. After a short 50-minute flight with Garuda Indonesia, offering daily flights to Sumba, you will reach the small airport, Tambolaka.

From here your journey continues with a safari jeep to the resort. With fresh coconuts in hand and exciting views of the island, you then reach the resort after an hour and a half’s drive.

The luxury resort offers the following: 32 individual and spectacular pool villas, a unique spa, NihiOka, an open-air restaurant with ocean views, the Nio Beach Club, a Boat House with a bar, a yoga pavilion, a chocolate factory, horse stables and a fantastic infinity pool directly by the sea.

Since the beach belongs to the hotel, it is as deserted as these pictures show. You will only encounter a few riders on horseback and if you are lucky, a Buffalo herd that the Sumbanese farmers bring out to the beach every day.

© Jason Childs

The Perfect Place for Romance
After we got married on the dreamy beach, Anse Source d’Argent in the Seychelles in 2012, the extraordinary Nihi Sumba Resort would be the romantic and special place where we would renew our vows in October 2017 on our the 5th wedding anniversary.

©Jason Childs

Villas

All the villas in this resort have exotic Sumbanese names and are entirely different and unique in their design. The villas have one to five bedrooms, signature canopy beds, carefully selected furniture, are decorated with attention to detail, have chic mini-bars with liquor and handmade chocolates, pools and often dramatic views of the Indian Ocean.

Mendaka

This beautiful one bedroom duplex villa was our home for our vow renewal ceremony. Together with five other villas, it is the crown jewel of Nihi Sumba Island and is part of the estate owned by Chris Burch.

The villa has a covered terrace, a semi-open living room, an outdoor lounge, a quaint open bathroom, a metal bathtub on the terrace on the first floor and a pool with breathtaking views – all in all strikingly beautiful!

The bathtub from which you can watch the stars at night and have incredible views to enjoy during the day is a dream!

In the mini-bar, you will find everything your heart could desire!

You also have panoramic ocean views from the open bath and outdoor shower.

Lulu 

This villa offers spacious rooms, great stylish design with a lot of natural stone, one to two bedrooms, a fabulous outdoor patio with a Bale, an infinity pool and a chic outdoor shower.

Lamba 

The Villa Lamba 1 is situated directly next to the Boat House. It has a massive terrace with infinity pool and sitting area, a stunning semi-open bathroom with a gigantic bathtub, an outdoor shower and signature Nihi canopy bed.

The other villas with melodic names such as Haweri, Puncak, Santoro, Wamoro, Kasambi, Marangga, Kanatar and the Mamole Tree House, also offer exceptional luxury in their own unique way. The Mamole Tree House was just chosen as the “Most Beautiful Treehouse in the World” by the Telegraph.

Restaurant & Bar

Ombak Restaurant | Breakfast

Breakfast is served in this open-air restaurant with magnificent sea views. While watching the surfers riding the waves, you can enjoy some delicious egg dishes, freshly squeezed juices and fresh fruit.

Nio Beach Club | Lunch

The Nio Beach Club is located directly next to the pool and in the afternoon grilled dishes, burgers and freshly prepared pizzas baked in a wood-fired clay oven are served. Lunch and snacks are also served by the pool…

… but you can also enjoy lunch on the terrace of your villa if you prefer to do so.

Boat House und Bar | Sunset Cocktail

The quaint Boat House is the meeting place for surfers and water sports enthusiasts and in the evening a beautiful place to enjoy the sunset from with an exotic cocktail in hand.

Ombak Restaurant | Dinner

In the evening, the Ombak restaurant is the hub of social activity and it has a very romantic ambiance. If you would like to, you can even dine with your feet in the sand. Fresh produce from the organic garden and local fresh fish are served.

For special events, there are many romantic spots – also directly on the beach.

Barbecues
On select evenings a scrumptious Barbecue buffet is served.

Chef Clinton stems from  South Africa. He and his team serve mouthwatering local and international dishes.

The overall mood at the resort is very relaxed with a feel-good atmosphere.

Wedding & Honeymoon

For our 5th wedding anniversary, we renewed our wedding vows at Nihi Sumba. The vow renewal ceremony took place on this fabulous beach with Sumbanese priests. An extraordinary experience – report to follow!

© Olaf Kotzke (Nihi)

Renewal of Vow Package from USD 981++

  • NihiOka Spa Safari, including a visit to a nearby Sumbanese village, breakfast and lunch on the cliffs, as well as a range of spa treatments, from massages and reflexology to salt scrubs and mud wraps
  • Traditional Sumbanese vow renewal performed by Sumbanese high priests
  • Romantic dinner in a restaurant of your choice

© Nina (Nihi)

In the evening we had a very romantic dinner in the Nio Beach Club complete with wedding cake, serenade and stunning fireworks on the beach.

Experiences

Water Sports

With this cool crew, you can surf, fish, paddle or go snorkeling.

The waves in the bay are perfect for surfers. Surfers from all over the world come here to surf “Occy’s Left.” To ensure that everybody gets a turn a maximum of only ten surfers are allowed at the resort.

Spa & Wellness
At the NihiOka Spa, approximately a half hour drive away, you will be spoiled all day long with unlimited spa treatments at this genuinely unique Spa. Our report >>

Horse riding
The resort has its own stables on the beach. If this is your thing, I can’t imagine anything more beautiful than a horse ride on this beach!

Chris & Charly´s Chocolate Factory

In the chocolate factory, you can learn how to make chocolate. The mini-bars in the villas are also stocked with these delicious chocolates.

Yoga, Yoga Retreats, Waterfall Hikes and visits to a nearby Sumbanese village are also on offer.

Sumba Foundation

While we stayed at the resort, there was a touching presentation on the Sumba Foundation that took place during a Barbecue evening. It is a private, non-profit aid organization that the former owner of Nihi, Claude Graves, founded in 2001 and that has since then provided humanitarian aid.

“Its not about perfect, its about beautiful” -Chris Burch

On this evening, the owner of Nihi and supporter of the Sumba Foundation, Christopher Burch, even attended the presentation. He supports the local Sumbanese population with a lot of heart and has expanded the work of the foundation considerably.

With education and through the construction of seven malaria clinics, Malaria has already been reduced by 75% on the island and around the Nihi resort by 93%!   Over the past 14 years, the foundation has established more than 11 elementary schools and has also equipped a mobile ultrasound for pregnant women, built 48 wells and provided clean water to 172 villages. (More info)

Every day the children in the schools get a free lunch. On tour, Nihi resort guests can also help to hand out the meals, if they would like to.

You can either have a look on the website at “Pack for a Purpose” or ask Nihi Resort before your trip what the children’s needs are at that moment. We brought along coloring books, pencils, erasers, crayons and footballs  – they just loved it!

You should definitely join the Sumba Foundation’s Project Trips and visit a malaria clinic and a school. It is fascinating and absolutely impressive to see what they have already achieved here. The passionate Rainy accompanied us on our trip.

Sumba Foundation
Kenny Knickerbocker, +62 (0) 813 3956 6103, Kenny@sumbafoundation.org
www.sumbafoundation.org

Conclusion

The resort, the natural surroundings and the villas are a dream. The view from the pool at Villa Mendaka is spectacular! The local staff is lovely and warm-hearted! We had an idyllic vow renewal. Unfortunately, some things went wrong during the organization and planning, so not everything was perfect. So what? As Christopher Burch said – it’s not about being perfect, it is about being beautiful. And it indeed is beautiful here! This almost untouched island has such flair. With a heart for its employees, an extraordinary concept, tasteful and unusual design, its nonchalance and social commitment, it is no wonder that the NIHI resort has been chosen as the “# 1 Hotel in the World”  for the second time in a row.

Room: 32 spectacular villas (1 to 5 bedrooms)
Flight duration: About 50 minutes from Denpasar Airport, Bali
Transfer: About a 90-minute drive from Tambolaka Airport. Shuttle service from the airport to the resort in a Nihi Jeep is an additional USD 250 -per person
Air Temperature: 20 – 32 degrees Celsius
Best Time to go: Dry season: May – October; Rainy season – 3 months in the East and up to 5 months in the West: November – April; Best Time to go: April – July and from October to mid-December in the Southwest; Surfing season: May – September
Time difference: CET +8 hours
Price: From USD 750- per night per double room. Fully inclusive of the following: Full board and Soft drinks, Butler-Service, Minibar (stocked up once daily, including beer and spirits), Laundry, Sumba Foundation Project Trips, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Snorkeling, Group Yoga and Meditation Courses at the Yoga Pavilion. A minimum stay of three nights applies. Rates >>
Specials: Stay 4 & Pay 3; Stay 7 & Pay 5
Special features: Unique location in a beautiful bay, magnificent deserted beach, exceptional villas, incredible spa safari, easy going atmosphere, travel and making a difference
Perfect for: Surfers, couples, nature lovers, romantics, honeymooners and adventurers


NIHI SUMBA ISLAND
Front Office: (+62) 811 3978 550
fo@nihi.com
www.nihi.com

Leading Hotels of the World – Elite member
The World’s Most Romantic Hotels – Travel+Leisure 2018
#1 Hotel in the World – Travel+Leisure 2016, 2017
Destination Resort of the Year – AsiaSpa Awards 2015

More interesting articles:
Travel+Leisure – The Rebirth of Indonesia’s Sumba Island
The Points Guy – Video Interview With Chris Burch and James McBride

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Please note: Nihi Sumba Resort partially sponsored our stay. Thank you so much! The opinions expressed in this article are nevertheless 100% our own!

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MAIA Luxury Resort & Spa, Mahé, Seychelles – a luxury hideaway with style & heart

A paradise for honeymooners at Anse Louis

If you are looking for the perfect place to recharge your batteries, propose to your loved one, go on honeymoon or have your dream wedding on the beach, then the MAIA on a private peninsula in the Seychelles is just the place to be! The Seychelles itself is pure relaxation – but at the MAIA you enter a sanctuary of tranquility!

Rediscover dulled senses and restore yourself on a private peninsula!

A fantastic beach, lush tropical gardens, huge granite rocks; Cheerful staff who greets you by placing their hands on their chests; A dedicated butler who warmly welcomes you; Absolute privacy; The finest all-inclusive à la carte cuisine; Sweeping ocean views from your villa’s private infinity edged pool and a Balinese spa with open-air treatment rooms – these are just some of the highlights you will get to experience at this romantic “Leading Hotel of the World“!

MAIA Mythology – the luxurious five-star resort “MAIA” has been named after the oldest, most timid and most beautiful daughter of the Greek titan, Atlas and the Roman goddess of spring – here it symbolizes rejuvenation, beauty and discretion!

I see – the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, award-winning exotic gardens and magic tropical sunsets…
I hear – the chorus of tropical birdsong…
I smell  delicate jasmine, exotic spices and the ocean…
I feel  revived, relaxed and radiant…
I taste – a romantic dinner under the stars with only the Indian Ocean for company…
I sense  tranquility, serenity and complete happiness…

Special MAIA Experiences: Collection of Emotions

The exceptional design of the resort is inspired by Bangkok-based designer Bill Bensley. It is a blend of African and Asian influences, with thatched roofs, giant wooden doors, natural stone, precious wood and mosaic floors, warm wooden tones and creamy elements.

“The site was fantastic, and has the world’s oldest rocks, which are granite, and huge boulders. We placed wooden bungalows among the boulders, to make one feel as if it grows out of the earth. There was not one tree felled.” -Bill Bensley

On this island sanctuary, everyone can feel as if they are on honeymoon, because everything that is usually available to honeymooners only, is already included here. For example: Champagne on arrival, a romantic dinner on the beach or in the villa and a romantic bath in your private outdoor bath. For newlyweds on honeymoon another special treat is added – a 75 min massage in the beautiful MAIA Spa!

Next to the dreamlike turquoise Indian Ocean with its white sandy beach, there is a large pool with breath taking views of the ocean, a sun deck and sun beds. (Activities brochure >>)

Ultimate privacy in spectacular pool villas

The 30 private villas are beautifully integrated into the natural surroundings and all have their own private infinity pool, an outdoor pavilion with daybed and dining area, discreet butler service, Hermès toiletries, a custom-made minibar, an entertainment system and a great bathroom. They are about 250 square meters and are hidden between the granite rocks and surrounded by tropical vegetation.

Ocean Panoramic Villas

There are 13 Ocean Panoramic Villas situated on the top of the hill and they offer spectacular views of the ocean and the bay. We stayed in one of these great panoramic villas almost on top of the hill.

We were warmly greeted by our personal butler, Delfi.

Apart from us, only Delfi was allowed to enter our villa. If you would not like to be disturbed, you simply hang a coconut in front of the gate. We did not even need to do that, because Delfi was very discreet, yet always there when we needed him.

Delfi is from Jakarta in Indonesia and is a really witty and lovable guy. We had a lot of fun with him.

The design of the villas as well as the view of Anse Louis Bay is simply breath taking. Although the resort is 10 years old, everything looks brand new thanks to the clear and simple design as General Manager Lionel Ferrari explained to us.

The villa itself blew us off our feet! Simply breathtakingly beautiful! And the view – just WOW!

To welcome us, a bottle of champagne and all sorts of snacks were awaiting us.

Gracious. Spacious. Secluded. Sublime.

Great furniture, noble fabrics, superb floors and many warm light sources create an incredibly noble and warm ambience.

This view is unbeatable – there is no better view than one of the ocean!

The bathroom is also very special with its outdoor bath, antique fittings, exquisite toiletries and a glass exterior shower! To have a bath here – whether during the day or at night – unique!

MAIA Signature Villas

The Signature Villas are widely scattered in the tropical garden and some even have their own beach access.

They are perfect for families because they are connected by garden paths.

The villas are far apart, some also high on the hill – but one of the friendly buggy drivers will pick you up and drop you off again anytime.

Whatever. Whenever. Wherever.

The MAIA has a very special BEYOND ALL-INCLUSIVE concept – you can eat whatever you want, whenever and wherever you feel like doing so! Whether you would like to eat in the villa, on the beach or have a romantic dinner on the helicopter landing area – anything and everything is possible! You could even order breakfast in the afternoon. All your wishes are fulfilled and you can plan your time according to your own wishes. Just great!

Sunset Pool Bar

In the cozy Sunset Pool Bar there are, of course, delicious cocktails and everything else you could feel like eating and drinking. Everything is, of course, included, except for certain food and drinks that has a price tag. But, this only applies to the very expensive items.

Must try: Bartender Jeromo’s self-made rum with Passionfruit!

Tec-Tec Restaurant

In the open-air Tec-Tec restaurant you can choose between Mediterranean, Asian, Creole, Italian and Indian cuisine. And even if something is not on the menu, the staff do their best to accommodate individual requests.

Insider tip from the general manager, Lionel Ferrari: The pomelo salad with giant prawns and the Wagyu Beef burger – so delicious!

In the evening, everything is bathed in a completely different light – then it is really romantic here!

The whole ambiance is very relaxed, so romantic and the food top class. And since everyone can eat, whenever and wherever they want, it is never crowded. The concept is also great for couples with children, as they can opt to have dinner in their own villa.

Wine cellar
You can enjoy a private tasting in the glass wine boutique.

In Villa Dining

We also made use of this offer by enjoying breakfast in the villa with its magnificent view. Each villa has its own small kitchen and Delphi prepared us a great breakfast with freshly made egg dishes.

In the afternoon, after we had our treatments at the spa, a delicious lunch was already awaiting us in the villa. With Delfi, everything was just a call away! If you would like to, you can even enjoy your own barbecue in the villa!

Find some inner peace in the luxury spa

Great spa treatments make a holiday or get-away perfect. The MAIA Spa is definitely not to be missed! All therapists are from Indonesia and are trained in Balinese techniques.

The three beautifully designed open-air treatment rooms are embedded into nature and only separated by rocks. The ambiance is one of relaxation pure! Homemade massage oils and skin care products with a spa tradition going back over 2,000 years are used, for example, the Hungarian brand “Omorovicza”.

The pavilion where we got to enjoy our MAIA signature massage, even had its own small waterfall.

MAIA Signature massage
A unique fusion of consistent pressure, long strokes and gentle stretching, blended with a soothing rhythmical flow of delivery to ease muscle tension.

Spa Menu

FULL MOON MASSAGE (for couples)
This open air, restorative treatment takes place from MAIA’s highest vantage point, under the Full Moon’s enticing and ephemeral glow, and imbues a sense of calm and inner beauty.
(more info >>)

After a foot bath, our two therapists Karisna and Ari, gave us a wonderful massage and eased all those tense muscles. We asked for a “medium” pressure massage. Karisna told us afterwards, that after a “strong” pressure massage you feel like a new person in just a day or two. This then resembles the “Healing” massages we got to experience in Bali. Good to know!

As relaxing as the massage looks like – it feels even better! A Balinese massage with the right therapist, is in our opinion, the best massage in the world – the Balinese quite simply have it in their blood.

Morning Yoga and Qi Gong sessions are available free of charge.

Flourishing landscapes thanks to many green thumbs

The award-winning 30-hectare tropical garden at the MAIA Resort is the work of Head Gardener Allan Marguerite and his team. 18 gardeners take care of about 300 different species of exotic and endemic plants.

In the small vegetable gardens, you will find all kinds of herbs, bananas and papayas to name just a few.

Honeymoon & Wedding

Honeymoon Special
SPA DELUXE DINING EXPERIENCE
1 candlelight 3-course spa dinner including a bottle of champagne and a 75-minute massage per couple / stay

Minimum stay of 5 nights, can be combined with the special offer of stay for 7 nights only pay for 6.  Valid up to 12 months after the wedding. (weitere Infos >>)

Wedding-Package

FRANGIPANI WEDDING (from 2550 EUR)
Champagne and fruit on arrival, villa upgrade upon availability, wedding co-ordinator, manicure and pedicure for the bride and groom, decoration of the MAIA garden on the beach, bridal bouquet and buttonhole for the groom, wedding certificate, photographer, wedding cake, a bottle of champagne, drinks and canapés during the ceremony and a romantic breakfast (witnesses can be provided).

SIGNATURE SUNSET WEDDING (from 5550 EUR)
As above plus 75 min MAIA signature massage for the couple, 90 min facial treatment for the bride, decoration at Anne Louis beach, Seychellois musicians during the wedding ceremony, 15 min helicopter flight, private candlelight dinner, romantic bath in the villa, romantic breakfast on the beach or in the villa, romantic champagne picnic lunch on a day during your stay, wedding gift.

More information >>

Conclusion

Luxury and pure romance! Here you can really relax and just enjoy! The concept of the MAIA is really great – here the guest is always top priority. After only 2 days, we were already as relaxed, as seldom at any other place! Just perfect for that romantic getaway, for your honeymoon, your wedding or simply to relax and unwind! The attention to detail and the passion of the whole MAIA family is so evident, you feel the difference.

Rooms: 30 villas
Transfer: About 25 minutes from the airport, about 30 minutes from the capital, Victoria
Air Temp.: 24 – 30 degrees Celsius
Temp. Water: 25 – 27 degrees Celsius
Best time: All year round
Duration: Nonstop from Germany to Mahé approx. 10 hours
Time shift: CET + 3 hours, summer + 2 hours
Price: from 1762 EUR / night (All-inclusive concept plus yoga, Qi Gong and diving)
Romantic highlight: romantic dinner on the beach or barbecue in the villa
Special offerings: 7 = 6, 8 = 7, 10 = 8, 9 = 8, 11 = 9, 13 = 11, 14 = 12, 20 = 16
Activities: Water sports activities such as: snorkeling, canoeing, diving and fishing (additional charge)
Special features: stunning villas with sea views, great concept, butler service, excellent cuisine
Perfect for: Honeymooners, weddings, couples, peace and quiet seekers, romantics, families

MAIA Luxury Resort & Spa
Anse Louis
Mahé Seychelles
Phone: +248 4 390 000
www.tsogosun.com/maia

Leading Hotels of the World
8 of the best resorts in the Seychelles – CNN Travel 2017
World Travel Awards – Seychelles` Leading Luxury Hotel Villa – 2017
World Travel Awards – Seychelles` Leading Boutique Hotel – 2017
SALI (South African Landscapers Institute) – Gold Award of Excellence – 2015
World Luxury Spa Awards – Best Luxury Destination Spa – 2012
The Daily Telegraph – Voted #41 – 50 Best Hotels in the World – 2010
World Travel Awards – Indian Ocean’s Leading Luxury Resort – 2010
The Leading Hotels of the World – Commitment to Quality – 2009
SALI (South African Landscapers Institute) – Best Landscape and Turf Maintenance in Africa – 2008

Our tip for romance, privacy and butler-service in:
Namibia: OKONJIMA Lodge, Namibia – Luxuslodge & gelebter Tierschutz für Raubkatzen
Kenia: MANDHARI, Shimba Hills, Kenia – ein privates Hideaway mit spektakulärer Aussicht

Did you like this article? Then make our day and share it!
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Please note: Our stay was sponsored by MAIA Luxury Resort. Thank you very much! Nevertheless, the opinions expressed in this article is as always, 100% our own!

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Rayavadee – a jungle dream amidst rocks and 3 beautiful beaches in Krabi (+ video)

The 5-star paradise resort with 3 beaches for people in love, beach lovers and rock climbers

The Rayavadee on the Railey peninsula in the Krabi province, Thailand, has been on our wish list for a long time. The pictures on the website are absolutely stunning. We always wanted to stay at the Rayavadee and this year, it finally was time. It was fantastic. We still longingly think back to the wonderful time we had. We will cherish this hotel forever.

Krabi is one of the most beautiful areas in southern Thailand and the Rayavadee is certainly the nicest hotel there. There are lush tropical vegetation and colorful flowers everywhere with impressive limestone cliffs and many beautiful beaches and small islands to explore. The Rayavadee is located approximately 180 km from Phuket and 25 km from Krabi Airport. It is set in a 0.5-hectare nature reserve, the Krabi Marine National Park and is surrounded by lush jungle gardens and the turquoise Andaman Sea.

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This luxury beach and spa resort is part of the “Leading Hotels of the World” and can only be reached by water. You will be picked up by the hotel’s shuttle service, a high-speed yacht with the finest leather, at the Krabi Pier and brought to Nammao Beach in Railey West. If it is low tide, you will be driven to the shore from the boat by tractor. So cool!

You are welcomed at the resort with a delicious ice cocktail in the lobby. It is immediately pointed out, that you are living with wild animals and you should please refrain from feeding them. If you’re lucky, one or the other monkey might just cross your path or otherwise you can observe them in the trees.

The absolute highlight is that the resort is surrounded by 3 beaches. “Phra Nang Beach” in the south is known as the most beautiful beach in Krabi. TripAdvisor again listed it among the top 10 beaches in Asia in 2013. Railey Beach is wonderful for swimming, the scenery is breathtaking and therefore, it is also very popular with tourists. Last but not least, there is Nammao Beach in Railey West. Although it is not suitable for swimming, it is the climbing mecca for rock climbers from around the world. So depending on when it is high or low tide, you are spoilt for choice.

Luxury pavillons

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You can stay in one of 98 luxury pavilions spread out in the vast tropical gardens between coconut trees and fish ponds. They are round, built from natural wood with thatched roofs and fit perfectly into the natural surroundings. You can tell that much emphasis has been placed on sustainability and that no overexploitation took place.

All pavilions have 2 floors with a living room on the lower floor and a bedroom with a large bathroom on the upper floor.

The Spa Pavilions have a private garden and an outdoor jacuzzzi and the Hydro Pool Pavilion a private garden and a hydro pool. There are also 4 huge beach villas and the Family Pavilions which all have an additional bedroom.

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We stayed in a chic 70 square metre Deluxe Pavilion with an outdoor terrace. It is so spacious that 3 people could easily stay here. You immediately feel right at home in the pavilion with its stylish tropical and also very artistic decor with lots of bamboo, polished wood, richly coloured fabrics and handcrafted details. The bathroom with freestanding tub is well designed and offers a selection of care products, including mosquito repellent.

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In the morning you can watch the squirrels from your bed.

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Tip: The 24-hour room service is highly recommended. In the evening, it is so romantic to have dinner in front of your pavilion in the middle of the jungle. The food is great and affordable.

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Pool

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The gigantic pool is set in the most wonderful location between the century-old rock formations and the beach.  From the beach you can jump into the pool and from the pool into the ocean. Simply awesome! The view is incredibly beautiful. It feels as if you are in the movie Avatar. To us, it was the most beautiful pool ever!

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The resort hosts intimate get-togethers with cocktails, canapés and live music, so that the hotel guests can get to know each other and can ask the staff questions.

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The “Raitalay Terrace”, one of 4 restaurants, is located directly on the beach, has fantastic romantic views and specializes in Mediterranean and international cuisine. Conveniently, they will also serve you snacks at the pool.

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Breakfast

Breakfast is served in “Raya Dining” at the foot of the huge cliffs on Nammao Beach. In the morning, you will also find monkeys here playing on the roofs.

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Strand

Railey Beach

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Although Railey Beach is open to the public and during the day many tourists are brought here with long tail boats, it is not as crowded as one might fear. It is more crowded during high season on Usedom.   This did not bother us at all, as you are almost alone in the evening again.

 

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There is a small shopping street, further down the beach

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Phra Nang Beach

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The infamous restaurant “The Grotto” is located on Phra Nang beach. It is one of the most famous restaurants in Thailand and situated in a grotto-like cave. The resort’s Thai restaurant “Krua Phranang” is also situated here. Both restaurants are located directly on the beach and have wonderful views of the ocean, the cliffs and the islands. Here you can enjoy the sunset.

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Princess Cave

The “Cave of the Sea Princess” is a pilgrimage site for fishermen and perfect for rock climbers.

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Monkeys

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In the morning, you see these cute monkeys as you walk along the pathway leading from Nammao Beach to Phra Nang Beach. They live in the rocks and opportunistically, hope to grab something to eat from the tourists. Thus, they sit in the lianas, almost right in your face.

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Spa

Unfortunately, we did not visit the spa, but it should be great. In a serene atmosphere, you can choose from aromatherapy, body treatments, facials, hot stone treatments, massages, reflexology, peelings, wraps and of course, Thai massages.

Honeymoon

This resort is the perfect destination for honeymooners with its stunning natural beauty. The tropical serenity, the beautiful surroundings, attentive service and the extensive gardens with plenty of privacy are just awesome and incredibly relaxing. For your honeymoon you should also indulge in booking one of the Spa Pavilions with a private garden and an outdoor jacuzzi or a Hydro Pool Pavilion with a private garden and a hydro pool. This way, your complete privacy is guaranteed.

Wedding

The Rayavadee Resort also hosts beautiful weddings. Unfortunately, for us, the beaches are simply too crowded for a wedding ceremony. In our opinion, the Pimalai Resort & Spa on Koh Lanta is definitely a better choice when it comes to that.

Tips

In the evening
In the evenings, it is very quiet here.  So, it is definitely not the place to be, if you are looking for a party. Except for having dinner and walking on the beach, there is not much to do here. Rayavadee is more a resort where you can completely relax and get away from it all.

Massages
 At Phra Nang Beach, you can enjoy a massage for only 5 EUR amongst the trees at the end of the beach. We can recommend the Sand & Sea Spa at Railey Beach. Very good Thai massage, beautiful open-air location and good prices.

Rock climbing
On the walkway on Nammao Beach you can climb to the viewpoint secured by ropes. The ascent takes about half an hour.

Air temperature: 25 – 35 degrees Celsius during the day, at night 20-25 degrees Celsius
Water temperature: 28 degrees Celsius
Best time to go: Early December to mid April
Price: From 303 EUR per night
Special Honeymoon Offer: Welcome cocktail, fresh fruit in your pavilion on a daily basis, a bottle of champagne and flowers on arrival, daily afternoon tea in the Raya Lounge, a 75-minute couple’s massage at the Rayavadee Spa, all included, when staying a minimum of 4 nights.
Transportation: 25 minutes from Krabi Airport, 2 ½ hours from Phuket Airport
Special features: 3 beaches, gigantic pool area with an impressive cliff background, right on the beach, fine dining, great spa
Perfect for: couples, families, honeymooners, a diving holiday, beach lovers, rock climbers

Rayavadee
214 Moo 2, Tambon Ao-Nang, Amphur Muang
Krabi 81000, Thailand
Tel : (66-75) 620 740 – 3
Fax : (66-75) 620 630
E-mail: reservation@rayavadee.com
www.rayavadee.com

Factsheet(English)

Member of “The Leading Hotels of the World”

UK Tatler Travel Guide’s ‘101 Best Hotels in The World’ 2014 & 2013

Winner of Trip Advisor 2013 ‘Certificate of Excellence’

Winner of Trip Advisor 2012 Traveler’s Choice Awards ‘Top 25 Luxury Thai Hotels’

Nominated for Travel & Leisure’s ‘World’s Best Hotels’ Reader’s Choice Awards, 2012

Conde Nast Traveler’s Annual ‘Gold List – World’s Best Places to Stay in the World’ 2010

Excellence Award for ‘Best Hotel Project in Southeast Asia’ – ASEAN Association

Recipient of ‘The Royal Gold Medal for Environmentally – Conscious Architecture’ – Association of Siamese Architects

On our trip to Thailand we also visited the Anantara Riverside Resort & Spa in Bangkok and the Pimalai Resort & Spa in Koh Lanta. We are happy to recommend each of the three hotels we visited as each hotel is unique in its own way.

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