Looking for a wanderlust-inducing stay and budget’s no object? Wonderful. We asked travel specialist Charlotte Craig from boutique-hotel experts Mr & Mrs Smith for her pick of the world’s most luxurious hideaways; read on for incredible design, impeccable service and out-of-this world destinations.
Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
This eco-luxe escape is spread over a pair of pristine islands, with thatched and stone villas dotted throughout the jungle and overlooking the sea: being green has never been so glamorous. Song Saa is just off the coast of Sihanoukville in the Gulf of Thailand, south-west of mainland Cambodia, and it’s one of the most incredibly beautiful places I’ve ever seen. And you arrive there by speedboat – it’s hard to get more thrilling than that!
Smith extra: One 60-minute spa treatment each
Soneva Kiri, Thailand
A winner in the Best for Families category at the Smith Hotel Awards, Soneva Kiri is hard to beat for kids. The kids’ club – the Den – is incredible. It’s shaped like a manta ray with themed rooms for music, fashion and art, and children can get a taste of Thai culture by trying traditional batik or learning the Thai alphabet. It’s extremely eco-friendly, too: they do a lot to conserve the marine ecosystems. Combine all that with the space and privacy of the stunning beachside villas and vast gardens, and you’ve really got something to shout about.
Smith extra: Dinner at either the View or Benz’s restaurants
Fregate Island Private, Seychelles
A mere four degrees south of the equator, this tiny dot in the Indian Ocean is a sensitively developed verdant paradise. Traditional-style villas made from native mahogany and topped with thatched roofs provide your base, while talcum-soft sand will fast become your foot exfoliator of choice. The whole island is part of the hotel, so it’s incredibly exclusive and absolutely everything is taken care of – all you have to do is turn up and relax.
Smith extra: A complimentary 60-minute spa treatment each
Mr & Mrs Smith gives you the best price, guaranteed, as well as a little something extra on arrival. Book online at mrandmrssmith.com or by calling the expert Travel Team toll-free on 800 905 326.