ANANTARA PALAIS HANSEN VIENNA HOTEL VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Occupying a heritage-listed palace built in 1873 by renowned architect Theophil Edvard von Hansen, Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel is the city’s first luxury urban resort. The storied neo-renaissance landmark on Vienna’s famous Ringstrasse Boulevard boasts a central yet secluded location in the historic financial district and near Servitenviertel, one of Vienna’s most charming residential areas. Within walking distance, Hansen-designed icons like the House of Parliament and the Vienna Stock Exchange give the city’s historic core its distinctive identity.
During its 150 years, Palais Hansen served many purposes, first commissioned as a luxury hotel for the 1873 Vienna World Exhibition, then as a residential complex and public administration building, before returning to its hospitality roots in 2011. That year, the building’s inner courtyard, originally designed for horse-drawn carriages, was converted into an impressive lobby, while two other courtyards were transformed into a ballroom and a restaurant. The heritage-listed staircases with their original handrail and wedge steps, as well as the Ionic columns designed by Theophil Hansen, were carefully restored and continue to delight guests to this day.
In March 2024, the palace started its next chapter under the Anantara brand with a full redesign that infused public and private areas with modernity while preserving a sense of place. Anantara’s in-house design team refurbished all 152 guest rooms and suites with a blend of historic appeal and contemporary sophistication. Rooms, many with balconies, feel extra spacious thanks to 3.5-metre ceilings and oversized windows, while triple-glazing ensures quality sleep. Those overlooking inner courtyards enjoy natural light and tranquility, while magnificent views of the tree-lined Ringstrasse belong to the most exclusive suites. The star of the hotel’s extensive suite collection is the 280-square- metre Presidential Suite, Vienna’s largest. With seven French balconies and a sumptuously appointed lounge with a grand piano, the apartment epitomizes European refinement.
The Michelin-starred EDVARD offers a refined dining experience, blending seasonal tasting menus by Chef Paul Gamauf with a focus on sustainable, local ingredients. THEO’S Lounge & Bar serves Viennese pastries by day and transforms into a stylish cocktail destination by night, featuring locally inspired drinks and live entertainment. The Private Lobby exudes elegance, while Brasserie Sophie, opening in spring 2025, will provide flexible all-day dining.
The 800-square-metre Anantara Spa offers signature treatments, medi-spa therapies, and hydrotherapy pools, complemented by a fitness centre and scenic jogging routes. For events, the Theophil Hansen Ballroom accommodates up to 265 guests, while additional meeting spaces provide elegant settings for intimate gatherings. The hotel seamlessly blends heritage with contemporary luxury, offering an exceptional experience in the heart of Vienna.
CEVAL BLANC SEYCHELLES TAKAMAKA, SEYCHELLES
Nestled along the pristine shores of Anse Intendance on Mahé Island, Cheval Blanc Seychelles offers an exquisite retreat that harmoniously blends luxury with the natural beauty of the Seychelles archipelago. This Maison, part of the esteemed Cheval Blanc collection, provides guests with an unparalleled experience amidst lush jungles and crystal-clear waters.
Cheval Blanc Seychelles is thoughtfully designed to celebrate the island’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Architect Jean-Michel Gathy has crafted 52 villas that serve as modern interpretations of traditional Creole architecture, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding environment. Guests can choose between villas nestled on the beach or perched on the hillside, each offering spacious living areas and stunning views. The interiors feature lavish bathrooms with adjoining dressing rooms and living spaces that open onto tropical outdoor patios. Private gardens boast 13-meter-long swimming pools, outdoor showers, terraces, and pergolas, creating intimate spaces for relaxation and reflection.
The resort’s culinary offerings are as diverse and vibrant as the island itself. With five distinct dining venues, guests are invited to embark on a gastronomic journey that spans French haute cuisine, Asian delicacies, and Mediterranean flavors. Each restaurant is designed to provide a unique ambiance, ensuring that every meal is a memorable experience.
For those seeking rejuvenation, the Cheval Blanc Spa offers an exclusive sanctuary amidst the island’s lush greenery. Partnering with Guerlain, the spa presents bespoke treatments tailored to individual needs, inviting guests to indulge in ultimate relaxation. Complementing the spa experience, the resort features a state-of-the-art gym equipped with the latest Technogym machines, a 25-meter swimming pool for invigorating laps, and facilities for yoga and meditation, all designed to promote holistic well-being.
Adventure enthusiasts will find a plethora of activities to engage in. The resort offers tennis and padel courts set against the backdrop of the vibrant Seychelles sky, providing the perfect setting for friendly matches. Unique to the property is a surf simulator, catering to both novices and seasoned surfers seeking the thrill of riding waves in a controlled environment. Additionally, guests can embark on scenic helicopter flights, offering breathtaking aerial views of the archipelago’s pristine landscapes. For a more intimate experience, private boat excursions allow exploration of secluded coves and beaches, with options for romantic picnics as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
Understanding the importance of family experiences, Cheval Blanc Seychelles provides dedicated spaces for younger guests. Le Carrousel, the resort’s kids’ club, is a haven for children, offering a range of activities that inspire adventure and creativity. The club is designed to engage young minds, ensuring that even the youngest guests have a memorable and enjoyable stay.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the resort’s commitment to integrating contemporary art with the island’s natural elegance. Curated artworks are thoughtfully placed throughout the property, creating an immersive environment where creativity and nature coexist harmoniously. This artistic approach enhances the overall aesthetic of the resort, offering guests a culturally enriched experience.
Cheval Blanc Seychelles stands as a testament to refined luxury, offering guests an immersive experience that celebrates the natural splendor of the Seychelles while providing world-class amenities and services.
THE PENINSULA LONDON LONDON, UK
Situated in the heart of Belgravia, The Peninsula London offers an exquisite blend of luxury and heritage, providing guests with unparalleled views of Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch. This newly constructed hotel seamlessly integrates with its historic surroundings, standing just moments away from iconic London landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Harrods, and Big Ben. The Peninsula London combines world-class hospitality with timeless British elegance, making it a premier destination for discerning travelers.
Designed by acclaimed architect and interior designer Peter Marino, The Peninsula London features 190 elegantly crafted guest rooms and suites. Each accommodation is bathed in natural light, with many offering floor-to-ceiling windows that frame picturesque cityscapes. The rooms and suites are designed to provide a serene and sophisticated ambiance, with luxurious materials, bespoke furnishings, and the latest technology to enhance comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy plush bedding, spacious bathrooms with marble finishes, and personalized services to ensure a seamless stay.
The hotel’s dining experiences are curated to celebrate global flavors while embracing local influences. The Lobby, located on the ground floor, boasts triple-height ceilings adorned with hand-blown crystal chandeliers and hand-painted de Gournay murals that reflect the lush greenery of the hotel’s courtyard and nearby Royal Parks. This elegant setting serves globally inspired cuisine throughout the day and offers the signature Peninsula Afternoon Tea, accompanied by live music, creating a refined atmosphere for guests to enjoy.
For an elevated dining experience, The Peninsula London features several specialty restaurants. Brooklands, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, offers contemporary British cuisine with panoramic views of the city skyline. Helmed by acclaimed chefs, the restaurant presents an innovative menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and refined techniques. Canton Blue, inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Cantonese cuisine, offers an exquisite selection of dishes that celebrate authentic flavors with a modern twist. The hotel’s bars and lounges provide additional spaces for guests to relax, socialize, and enjoy expertly crafted cocktails or fine wines in a stylish setting.
Guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation can retreat to The Peninsula Spa, a sanctuary of wellness and tranquility. The spa offers a range of holistic treatments, from therapeutic massages to advanced skincare rituals, designed to promote relaxation and well-being. In addition to the spa, the hotel provides a state-of-the-art gym equipped with the latest fitness technology, allowing guests to maintain their wellness routines while traveling. A heated indoor swimming pool adds to the wellness offerings, providing a serene space for leisure and exercise.
The Peninsula London also caters to business travelers and event planners with its sophisticated meeting and event spaces. Whether hosting a corporate function, wedding, or private gathering, the hotel provides tailored services, exquisite catering, and elegant venues to suit every occasion. The hotel’s prime location and impeccable service ensure a seamless and memorable experience for all guests.
With its exceptional design, refined hospitality, and world-class amenities, The Peninsula London stands as a symbol of modern luxury, offering guests an unparalleled experience in one of London’s most prestigious locales.
RAFFLES AT GALAXY MACAU MACAU, CHINA
Nestled within the vibrant precinct of Galaxy Macau, Raffles at Galaxy Macau is a landmark of luxury and sophistication, seamlessly blending timeless elegance with modern amenities. This all-suite hotel, the largest in the Raffles portfolio, offers around 450 meticulously designed suites, ensuring an unparalleled guest experience.
The hotel’s architecture takes inspiration from classical Italian design, with a stunning façade illuminated by spectacular LED installations. A 15-meter glass airbridge connects the two towers, offering breathtaking views of Cotai and Old Taipa Village. Inside, the interiors, crafted by Hirsch Bedner Associates, evoke the warmth of a luxurious merchant’s residence, featuring statuario marble, handcrafted crystal chandeliers, and elegant wooden flooring. Select accommodations include private heated pools set amidst lush gardens.
Each suite at Raffles at Galaxy Macau is a sanctuary of comfort and style, ranging from 78 to 228 square meters. The Raffles Signature Pool Suite, spanning 394 square meters, offers floor-to-ceiling views, a 156-square-meter terrace, an outdoor heated pool, and a Jacuzzi surrounded by greenery. All suites are designed with contemporary amenities, including Samsung Frame interactive TVs and a comprehensive pillow menu to ensure ultimate comfort.
Dining at Raffles at Galaxy Macau is a culinary journey featuring renowned chefs and exquisite venues. Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa, the first international venture of three-Michelin-starred sushi master Masaaki Miyakawa, offers a traditional Edomae-style omakase experience, using premium seasonal ingredients flown in from Japan. Teppanyaki Shou provides an interactive dining experience, where expert chefs prepare omakase- style teppanyaki using the finest ingredients. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Raffles Lounge & Terrace serves European favorites and the signature Raffles Afternoon Tea, complemented by live piano music and al fresco seating.
Guests have exclusive access to the Grand Resort Deck, home to the world’s largest Skytop Wave Pool. The 40-meter outdoor infinity pool on the sixth floor offers a tranquil retreat, complete with private cabanas and the Glass Pavilion serving refreshing beverages. Personalized service is a hallmark of Raffles, with a dedicated team of VIP Executives available around the clock to cater to every need, from private in-suite check-ins to bespoke experiences.
For those seeking shopping and cultural exploration, the hotel is directly connected to the Galaxy Promenade, a luxury shopping destination featuring over 200 premium fashion and beauty brands. GalaxyArt enriches the guest experience with rotating art exhibitions. The hotel can also arrange guided tours of Macau’s UNESCO-listed historic center, where guests can explore landmarks such as the ruins of St. Paul’s, A-Ma Temple, and Lilau Square.
With its exquisite design, world-class dining, and personalized service, Raffles at Galaxy Macau redefines luxury hospitality, offering an unforgettable experience in one of Macau’s most dynamic destinations.
