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The 2026 edition of the Surfing Champions Contest promises a unique experience in Sultans break, complete with first-class surfing, sun-soaked shores, and exclusive access to one of the sport’s most highly anticipated events. Surfing’s finest will travel from every corner of the world to catch some waves in this iconic Indian Ocean paradise. In one of the Maldives’ most well-known reef breaks, surfers will compete across three board disciplines: single fin, twin fin, and thruster, to be crowned champion.

The Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa will serve as a garden-island base for competitors, judges, and guests throughout with the 2026 contestants due to be announced in waves in the months leading up to the competition. The Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy was brought to life in 2011 and the first edition set the bar high with Mark Occhilupo winning all three divisions before going on to defeat world longboard champion, Josh Constable, in the Grand Champions Final. Over the years, the contest has seen iconic moments to remember with surfing royalty often passing through, including world champions, Olympians, and legends, with high hopes for this year’s lineup. Each year brings a high level of competition to Kuda Huraa’s shores, with winners being among some of the most decorated names in surfing.

Read our review of the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River

For those looking to get in on the action, the “Surf’s Up” package at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa elevates your experience from spectating to surfing alongside the greats. This package is full of activities and experiences you won’t forget, including guided boat trips to legendary breaks and four days of expert coaching with Tropicsurf pros. Everything is taken care of, from the surfing equipment to round-trip speedboat transfers, perfect for those looking to learn the basics or hone their skills. The Surf’s Up package starts the day off right with breakfast included in addition to daily yoga sessions and provides the perfect ending at ŪRJĀ Naturopathy Island in the form of a post-surf massage. This luxury package is topped off with a lavish Four Seasons cocktail party, set up around the island in picturesque settings, serving specialty cocktails and indulgent cuisine prepared by private chefs. These parties offer an idyllic backdrop to relax, chat, and unwind with the pros.

Discover more luxury hotels in the Maldives

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What differentiates Nala from other hotel experiences in the Maldives is its dual-island concept. Guests have access not only to the seclusion of Nala itself, but also to the fuller roster of restaurants, sports facilities, and experiences at the neighbouring Jawakara Island, a convenient three minutes away by speedboat.

Nala’s 80 one-bedroom villas are arranged across four categories: Sunrise Beach Villas, Romantic Beach Villas, Sunset Beach Pool Villas, and Ocean Pool Villas. Tropical interiors give way to private porches, select villas run on solar-powered energy systems, and every category offers either a private pool or direct lagoon access. The views, in every direction, are uninterrupted.

The Sulha Spa has a Himalayan Salt Room, Red-Light Therapy Room, Sauna, and Cold Bath, sitting alongside a full menu of treatments: traditional massage, hydrotherapy, Ayurveda therapies, yoga, and organic skincare rituals. It is a programme that understands wellness not as an add-on, but as the point.

Three dining destinations are on offer. Velu presents international cuisine through live cooking stations, Milos brings a Mediterranean sensibility to the lagoon’s edge and Kumo offers vibrant Asian flavours for those who prefer spice over salt air.

On the water, kayaking, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, snorkelling, wakeboarding, and jet skiing are all on offer and below sea diving in partnership with Prodivers Maldives, with access to more than 60 sites across Lhaviyani Atoll and a full suite of PADI-certified courses. On land, tennis, padel, futsal, volleyball, badminton, pétanque, and a serious fitness centre. And via Jawakara a 9 or 18-hole golf course, complete with a driving range.

The Details

Rates at Nala Maldives by Jawakara start from £750. Reservations and further information are available at nalamaldives.com.

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This spectacular corner of Kyoto was first developed as an imperial palace in the 13th century, later absorbed into the great Tenryu-ji temple complex, and then acquired by Baron Shozo Kawasaki, the industrialist whose family company would become the world-renowned Kawasaki Heavy Industries.

Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, opened on this site in 2015, amd has careful retained historical elements, including Kawasaki’s 1899 summer villa, which is now the Kyo-Suiran restaurant.

The Arrival

Arashiyama undoubtedly draws crowds. The bamboo groves, the Togetsu-kyo bridge, the riverboats and the temple gardens are all captivating experiences that bring international day trippers. But pass through the hotel’s private gate and all the bustle disappears. We arrived late afternoon, when the sunlight filtered through the delicate leaves of the maple trees in dappled patterns of amber and green. Through the branches, you could catch glimpses of the river, where visitors in little blue wooden rowing boats were enjoying the last of the afternoon sunshine, their gentle chatter and laughter carrying faintly across the water. A majestic cedarwood entrance gate opens onto a path shaded by twisted pines and maples, meandering through gardens carpeted in soft, verdant moss and decorated with stone lantern sculptures. The only sounds were birdsong and the distant murmur of life on the river. This has to have been one of the most magical hotel entrances I have experienced.

The team, in elegant modern Japanese uniforms, take your bags as you leave the car, leaving you free to meander to the reception pavilion. Check-in is in the lounge. There is no wait at a check in desk, just a warm smile, a welcoming tea, seasonal treats, and time to flick through the coffee table books as you ID is checked.

The Room

We stayed in a Tsukinone Superior Twin on an upper floor, a 39 sq m room with a long terrace balcony running the length of the exterior wall. Floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors opened onto a spellbinding view of the forested Arashiyama hillside in full autumn blaze, scarlet and gold maples against the grandeur of cedars and pines.

The room was a mix of western and Asian décor, with a distinctly Japanese balance of simplicity and quality. On the table, a black lacquered tray held a sturdy iron teapot, two dark ceramic bowl cups on saucers, a gift tin of seasonal sweets and a plate of shining fresh mandarins alongside the welcome card. The minibar had the ubiquitous hotel coffee machine and a wonderful selection of premium Japanese teas.

Beds can be King or twin queen, and at turndown, expect a tray placed on the bed with tea and a little wooden gift box of seasonal dried fruits as an evening treat.

In the bathroom, details included glossy black lacquered boxes on the vanity that discreetly held amenity items, while the handmade Kyoto soap, wrapped in rice paper and tied with a silver cord, was a yuzu citrus blend with mandarin orange, bitter orange, gardenia, myrtle and cedarwood bark, presented on a scarlet wood lacquered dish. The bathroom cups were hand-crafted Japanese ceramics. Le Chemin by Byredo provided the shower and bath amenities.

The bathroom itself could be left open plan, with the vanity extending into the room to share the panoramic hillside views or closed off with a sliding partition for privacy.

The next morning, I woke just before seven and slid open the balcony doors, greeted by a chorus of songbirds and the early sun igniting the colours of the tree-covered slopes. It was one of those unforgettable travel moments that stay with you. I can imagine this setting is remarkable in every season, wityh the luminous green of spring, the balmy warmth of summer evenings, the blaze of autumn, the stillness of the hillside covered in snow.

The Onsen Hot Springs

Suiran is an onsen hotel, so a hot springs experience is a requisite. Seventeen ground floor rooms have their own private open-air onsen bath, but all guests can also book one of two private hot springs set within secluded Japanese gardens. There’s one with a contemporary design with bamboo detailing, or the classic which we chose, with a natural style with river stones and boulders.

In the suite, I changed into the hotel yukata, a beautiful blue and white cotton robe printed with scenes of birds, a crescent moon, bamboo, and maple leaves. Then over it, a blue yukata jacket for warmth, and spa slippers. A spa attendant arrived to escort us to the onsen, a small ritual in itself that builds the sense of occasion.

The private cabin had showers and all the amenities you need. Outside, a landscaped bamboo garden with carefully placed stones included the large open-air onsen, where you soak with your partner and use a bamboo bucket to bathe yourself, or simply sit and enjoy the moment of mindfulness. The soft and mineral-rich water, drawn from the Arashiyama hot springs, is surprisingly hot at first, but your body adapts within moments, and the heat accelerates a deep, full-body relaxation. As you lie there, looking at the sky, watching bamboo leaves drifting down you begin to reset.

The Gardens and beyond

Continuing with the theme quiet contemplation philosophy of mindfulness, we found a small Shinto shrine overlooking the banks of the river. The team at the hotel told me it’s not so much a place of formal worship, but more a focus of mindfulness and good fortune for the hotel. Beyond the beautiful gardens is a riverside trail leading to local sights and taking you into the forest.

Gastronomy

Kyo-Suiran restaurant occupies Baron Kawasaki’s 1899 summer villa, originally named Enmeikaku, the Villa of Longevity. The story goes that Masayoshi Matsukata, Japan’s 4th and 6th Prime Minister, visited the baron, looked out at the view of the river and the Arashiyama hills and declared that the beauty of the scene made his life feel longer, inspiring the villa’s name. His calligraphy of those words was gifted to the baron and still hangs in the restaurant today.

The building is a beautiful piece of Meiji-era architecture, raised from the ground for protection against the river’s historical seasonal fluctuations, a detail that has been retained. Inside, exposed timber and floor-to-ceiling windows looking onto a manicured Japanese garden set the scene for the washoku cuisine, the traditional multi-course Japanese style, here prepared with French techniques.

We took the seasonal tasting menu on an autumn evening. The table itself was simple and precise with a crisp linen cloth, silverware, and chopsticks set on a small glass rest to the right of the place setting, the napkin rolled and tied with a thin, fine gold cord.

Tasting Menu

The amuse was a plate of three small items including salmon, local chicken, and dengaku miso with coffee beans, bottarga, watermelon radish and cheese, served on a bed of vivid green juniper leaves. The seasonal vegetable course was squid with caviar, cauliflower, yuba and endive. The owan was matsutake mushroom with pike conger and ginkgo nuts, served in a ceramic teapot so that you could eat the fish and mushroom with chopsticks through the lip, and pour the rich miso stock into the accompanying cup.

A warm lobster snack with bell pepper followed, then amadai with kujo green onion, taro, aosa seaweed and shellfish. The grilled course was wagyu beef with black garlic, set on a circle of carrot and burdock, with sansho pepper and grapes. A beautiful dish that embodies the autumn colours of the season. To finish, Ryu no Hitomi premium rice with miso soup, and a dessert of sweet potato with vanilla ice cream.

One detail I particularly loved, was that we were invited to choose our own sake cup, the sommelier presents a tray, where each design is different, from delicate glass to little silver ones with a hammered texture and gold interiors. The sake was then decanted at the table into a small, low contemporary silver jug. It is a beautiful gesture that captures everything about the Japanese attention to ritual and personal service.

Café Hassui

The second of the property’s historic buildings, Café Hassui was built in 1910 and sits alongside the river under a thatched roof and a canopy of natural foliage. This was once a gathering place for poets, and something of that ambiance remains. On the wall above the bar hangs a framed calligraphy poem, read left to right, which depicts the micro-seasons of Japan as experienced in Arashiyama. Japan’s traditional calendar divides the year into 72 micro-seasons, each lasting around five days, and this corner of Kyoto, which has inspired artists and writers for over a thousand years, is one of the places where you probably feel those shifts most keenly.

In the afternoon, Hassui serves Japanese-style afternoon tea and its signature hisui-mochi. In the early evening, it becomes the setting for the hotel’s complimentary aperitif hour, with glasses of Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque champagne accompanied by a small bento box of sweet and savoury nibbles.

Breakfast

Breakfast is served in Kyo-Suiran, with a choice of Western or Japanese. Naturally, we chose Japanese, and it was magnificent. Expect a generous array of trays and bento boxes with river white fish, bitter plum, miso, radishes, fruit, and the full works of a traditional Kyoto morning meal, together with a selection of fresh juices served in shot glasses, from green juice to fruit blends. It is a serious, beautiful way to begin a day.

The Location

Arashiyama has been admired for over a thousand years for its outstanding natural beauty. The hotel sits on the western edge of Kyoto, on the banks of the Hozu River, directly adjacent to the World Heritage Tenryu-ji Temple. The famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a ten-minute walk. For a quieter alternative, take a short taxi ride to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, a remarkable temple with its own intimate bamboo forest and thousands of ancient moss-covered stone statues representing the souls of the forgotten dead. It is one of the most atmospheric places in Kyoto. The Arashiyama Yusai-Tei Gallery, which requires advance booking online, is also well worth a visit.

Kyoto Station is approximately 30 minutes away by car, and the hotel offers a complimentary one-way taxi transfer from the station on arrival. A complimentary one-way rickshaw ride is also available to or from Saga-Arashiyama or Keifuku Arashiyama stations. Beyond Arashiyama, the wider treasures of Kyoto, from the Golden Pavilion to Fushimi Inari, are easily accessible by taxi.

Final Thought

Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto is certainly a hotel for all seasons. The natural surroundings, the private onsen, the century-old restaurant and café, the Shinto shrine by the river, the gardens; every detail has a sense of place and season.

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Rolling into Thimphu, one’s eyes are immediately drawn to the huge golden Buddha Dordenma statue perched on a hillside, a gleaming golden giant watching peacefully over the city.

Thimphu is Bhutan’s capital and government seat, located in the country’s western interior at 2,334 metres. The city is known for its colourful festivals and Buddhist sites, including the Tashichho Dzong, a huge, gold-leafed fortified monastery and government palace.

At the heart of the city is Pemako Thimphu, the largest hotel in Bhutan and an urban sanctuary conjuring up medieval fortress vibes. A sister property to Pemako Punakha, this hotel has its own unique character and charm, yet delivers the same level of outstanding service and attention to detail.

On arrival, guests are greeted with prayers and blessings from the resident monk, before a cultural introduction through song and dance performed in front of a large prayer wheel on the outdoor terrace.

Pemako Thimphu offers a contemporary yet understated sense of luxury, deeply rooted in Bhutanese culture. The hotel offers modern Bhutanese hospitality with a thoughtful, measured approach.

The 66 rooms and suites are decorated with traditional Bhutanese influences, with hand-painted murals, spiritual motifs, traditional woodwork, luxurious marble bathrooms, and high ceilings that give a feeling of space. 

The Lotus Realm Spa offers treatments inspired by traditional medicine to restore the body and mind. There’s a heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room and fitness centre. 

Pemako Thimphu offers several dining venues. Chig Ja Gye specialises in authentic Bhutanese cuisine, while Thongsel is an all-day dining restaurant boasting views of the surrounding mountains. Ara, a contemporary Bhutanese bar named after the local rice wine, serves an international selection of premium drinks and spirits.

From the towering Himalayas to lush forests and sacred rivers, Bhutan feels untouched and timeless. This magical kingdom is where the soul finds space to breathe, where monasteries cling to misty cliffs, prayers drift through valleys, and every path invites quiet reflection. In this serene kingdom, my personal Gross National Happiness soared.

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With a mandatory guide and driver, the drive from Paro to Gangtey takes around 6.5 hours and covers 195 kilometres, climbing from 2,400 to 3,300 metres along a scenic route to the Dochu La Pass (at 3,088 metres). At the Pass are 108 Druk Wangyal chortens symbolising spiritual reverence, and prayer flags adorn the high point of this switch-backing route. Dropping into the Phobjikha Valley, there is a vast expanse devoid of trees yet dotted with farmhouses and the magnificent Gangtey Goenpa (monastery). 

Oozing rural luxury, Gangtey Lodge sits at 3,300 metres and has one of the best views of the valley. Taking time to relax on the terrace to take in your surroundings is essential. On arrival, guests are given the warmest of welcomes from the entire Lodge team with singing, a prayer scarf and the most delicious hot chocolate. The service here is on another level.

There are 12 huge, ornate, luxury farmhouse suites, stylish and traditional with a contemporary flair. There’s no better place to soak up the views than from your free-standing English roll-top tub. A selection of bespoke massages and treatments is available, either in the privacy of the spa or within the comfort of your suite. The spa, set in a wooden hut, holds a handcrafted wooden tub, large enough for two, and is filled with mineral-rich water gently heated by hot stones from an open fire.

Meals are taken at the main building, resembling a chic and cosy alpine lodge: a large open space with living and dining areas, and roaring fireplaces. The Bhutanese pitched roofs help create vast spaces throughout, and the large arched windows offer stunning views. There are no set mealtimes and guests may dine at any time throughout the day. Eating early in the evening is recommended, due to the altitude, to give your body time to digest.

The Lodge places a strong emphasis on supporting the local community and maintains a close partnership with the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature. It dedicates time to planting trees in the surrounding blue pine forest and plays a leading role in anti-litter initiatives.

Just a short walk away, guests can take part in a private blessing ceremony with a monk from the 17^th-century Gangtey Monastery. Alternatively, take a hike to see the black-necked cranes when they arrive from Tibet for their mating season.

Staying at Gangtey Lodge is an unforgettable experience, where timeless tradition meets contemporary design and the beauty of nature. From the impeccable service to the exquisite cuisine, every detail is crafted to provide a truly romantic and luxurious stay.

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This is not traditional luxury. This is personality, playfulness and connection to place. The design concept, ‘Hack Osaka’ sees the city’s energy and culture through the creative lens of art installations, bold graphics and clever details throughout. With the new Umekita Park on the doorstep and direct connections to JR Osaka Station, it offers a relaxed, international base for exploring Japan’s foodie capital.

Japan can feel a little formal to Western visitors, with its strict social etiquette, the precision, the respect for rules and ritual. It is of course part of what makes the country so fascinating to visit, but it can also make staying in a luxury hotel feel cold. The Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda offers something different, with its relaxed, international vibe. It’s lively, friendly, urban and unpretentious.

The hotel occupies the upper floors of the North Tower in Grand Green Osaka, a new development that has transformed the area around Osaka Station. The design concept is ‘Hack Osaka’, a playful interpretation of the city’s culture through art, graphics and dining. Nikken Sekkei led the design, winning a Silver Prize at the 2024 International Design Awards.

Arrival

Check-in is on the 11th floor, where the reception flows into the bar area, and onto outside terraces. Our check-in was relaxed and chatty, the concierge coming over to introduce himself and make sure we felt welcome to ask anything about the city.

Opposite the lifts, a neon artwork glows beside a working see-saw, yes, a see-saw in the lobby, and through the floor to ceiling glass window I catch a glimpse of a playful fluorescent ladder, an installation in the vertical garden, while behind reception the mini library area has a mural painted on the side of the bookcase. It’s these playful, contemporary works that give Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda its unique personality.

The Suite

Our King Canopy Corner Suite was on the 23rd floor, with floor-to-ceiling glass wrapping around the corner offering panoramic views over the new Umekita Park and the Osaka skyline. We visited in mid-November, the trees just beginning to turn, bright sunshine and clear skies filling the space with light.

The layout worked well. The bedroom occupied the main corner, the wall behind the bed dividing it from the living area. Sliding doors on each side of the bed meant the space could feel open and connected to the living area, or private when closed. On one side of the wall, the bed; on the other, a large flatscreen TV facing the sofa and chair. The living area had its own floor-to-ceiling glass along the side.

On the coffee table waited welcome amenities; fresh fruit, a bag of savoury snacks, and two NIO ready-to-drink cocktails,  a Margarita and a Gimlet, in their smart Italian-designed packaging. An original touch.

The in-room bar was a separate piece of furniture set into an alcove, with a stocked fridge and drawers holding cups, wine glasses, and treats. On the counter sat a Nespresso machine, a jug for the filtered water station on each floor, ice bucket, and a Japanese teapot-shaped kettle.

The bathroom had a shower beside the tub in a glass enclosure, with a private room for the Japanese WC beyond. Twin vanities faced the wet areas. The amenity kit was excellent, including bath salts, mouthwash, everything you might need, presented in a cute little box.

In the wardrobe were branded Japanese pyjamas and a gift of warm, comfy Canopy socks. A small card read, ‘A gift from our neighbourhood to yours.’

Fukusuke charm

In the living room sat a ceramic figure, about 30 centimetres tall: Fukusuke, a traditional Japanese good luck charm, ‘hacked’ Canopy-style. White ceramic with bold watercolour strokes, with striped trousers, polka dot robe, zigzag hair. The same playful design appeared on the handwritten welcome card beside the amenities.

At turndown, delicate origami paper envelopes with blossom designs were placed on each side of the bed. Inside, a scented message card, saying ‘Slip the origami into your bag or purse, and let its gentle fragrance accompany you, offering moments of calm and tranquillity wherever you go.’

JaJa! Bar

The bar sits between reception and the restaurant, with an outside terrace for warmer months. It’s a cool, urban space to start the evening. As we sipped our cocktails, a singer performed live, filling the lobby level with life.

The bar menu is origina, in an oversized format, at least twice the size of A4, with bold graphics listing signature cocktails as well as including a guide to Osaka’s museums and cultural attractions. I asked for something off-menu with mezcal, and the bartender obliged.

Dining

‘CC:Carbon Copy’ is the signature restaurant is that runs along the corner of the building, tables on one side and on the other corner, slightly elevated booths with curved 180-degree seating beneath sculptural dome lighting.

We tried the World of Canopy tasting menu, a first-anniversary special featuring recipes from Canopy hotels around the world. The Kozara courses arrived like tapas: snapper crudo from Reykjavik, Spanish tortilla from Madrid, reef fish curry from Seychelles. The Osaka contribution the pani puri with duck confit, poached pear and mushroom marmalade, was the standout dish. Mains included chicken breast stuffed with truffle from London and pressed short rib from São Paulo. Paris provided dessert, with Paris-Brest with hazelnut praline.

The food was enjoyable and the experience is more about the overall atmosphere than gastronomy.

‘Bean there, UMEDA’ is the hotel’s coffee shop on the ground floor, that also sells light snacks perfect for a picnic in the neighbouring park.

Breakfast is an extensive buffet that covered Japanese and Western dishes across dedicated stations: dim sum, noodles, miso, pork dumplings, cold meats, cheeses, salads, fresh juices and much more.

The à la carte menu offers kitchen prepared dishes. I chose the braised Osaka beef omelette, made with cage-free eggs and rich with local flavour. Other options included French toast with mango and cinnamon, chicken ramen, and a plain or mixed omelette. You eat well for the first meal of the day.

Wellness

There is also a very spacious, well equipped gym with superb views.

The Neighbourhood

Umekita Park opened alongside the hotel, offering a green social gathering space with a cultural centre, amphitheatre seating for concerts, and areas to relax. It is still nearing completion but already feels like a cool addition to the city.

Beyond the immediate area, Osaka rewards exploration. The Shitennoji Temple, about 15 minutes by taxi, is one of Japan’s oldest. We visited on market day, when local sellers set up in front of the temple grounds with second-hand ceramics, calligraphy brushes, and all manner of Japanese treasures. We bought sake cups. It was a genuine neighbourhood market, not touristy at all, and the temple itself was peaceful, a contrast to the crowded chaos of Dōtonbori.

Universal Studios Osaka is about 20 minutes by taxi for families. The cultural island of Nakanoshima, with its museums and galleries, is also easily reached. And Kuromon Market, Osaka’s famous food arcade, is worth the trip for anyone serious about eating.

Arriving in Osaka

I also wanted to mention that Osaka is an excellent arrival point for Japan. Kansai International Airport is far less crowded than Tokyo’s airports, and the immigration process in my experience, was very swift. Register in advance with Visit Japan Web, scan your passport at the gate, a quick check with an immigration officer, facial recognition for customs, and you are through.

The Nankai Rapi:t limited express connects the airport to Namba in just 34 minutes. The retro-futuristic train has reserved seating and runs twice hourly.

Final Thought

Lifestyle hotels can sometimes try too hard. The Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda does not. It is playful without being gimmicky. The property has genuine personality, and the service is friendly and approachable. The location, in this new green corner of the city, is a great introduction to the future direction of Osaka.

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Punakha town and the stunning valley are nestled at the confluence of the Pho CHHU and Mo CHHU Rivers. This former capital is a living testament to Bhutanese culture, with the town at the district’s administrative heart.  The exciting arrival began with crossing over the powerful Mo CHHU River on a swaying suspension footbridge adorned with colourful prayer flags: a truly memorable entrance. Transferring to a golf buggy, you are transferred past a symbolic waterfall installation to receive a blessing from the resident monk, who offers prayers at the onsite temple, immediately setting the tone for a spiritual journey.

Set among 75 acres of hillside pine forest, Pemako Punakha was designed by Bill Bensley, known for creating spaces with profound connections to local culture. As the first Bhutanese owned and operated luxury hotel, this place doesn’t skimp on luxury. A personal butler makes each stay unforgettable. With impeccable attention to detail, the thoughtful, personalised service adds an entirely unique dimension to the experience.

There are 21 luxury villas scattered across a huge pine-forested hillside, set apart for complete privacy and accessed by a steep and narrow winding road just wide enough for golf buggies. Personal butlers use the buggies to transfer guests for all meals, spa treatments and activities.

Each Luxury Tented Pool Villa boasted strong accents of orange and yellow throughout, breathing vibrancy into the luxe interior, where carved dark wood furniture supported traditional artefacts and folkloric art. The bed was enormous, formed by two queen-sized beds joined together to create a vast, almost trampoline-like expanse of indulgent comfort covered in plush pillows and orange velvet cushions.

Outside, surrounded by a forest of soaring pines, a spacious wooden deck framed a private heated pool; a constant fly-by of brilliant butterflies and bright red dragonflies flitted across the pool’s surface.

The focus on authentic Bhutanese meals in dzong-style pavilions brings culinary traditions to life, and experiences like archery tie in beautifully with the region’s history and myths.

Soma, the all-day dining room, serves regional and international dishes. Alchemy House, a restored heritage home, serves traditional Bhutanese meals in a communal, hands-on style. Chefs conjure up yak curries, chur jaju (a soup of river weeds and cheese) and ema datshi (Bhutan’s iconic chilli and cheese dish) in clay pots. Sura is an exclusive hall for private gatherings of royalty and VIPs; Ati, a magical treehouse cabin overlooking a gorge, offers bespoke barbecues in a pine forest. Each venue celebrates Bhutan’s flavours, culture and sense of place.

From exploring ancient temples and indulging in traditional wellness practices, to savouring local flavours and embarking on immersive cultural journeys, every experience brings Bhutan’s rich traditions and the spirit of Gross National Happiness to life.

A butler who combines meticulous attentiveness with a deep understanding of local culture is the perfect complement to a place like Pemako Punakha, where tradition and understated luxury come together so effortlessly.

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The lift doors open and light floods in. You step out onto a mezzanine level with full length internal glass balcony, overlooking the floor below, reached by a sweeping spiral staircase. Above, the windows continue for 4 storeys, creating a soaring space of glass and sky, offering panoramic views of Osaka. This is the 40th floor of Nakanoshima Festival Tower West, and this is how the Conrad Osaka says hello.

This mezzanine level leads to the check-in area, where an 80-year-old Chinese juniper bonsai sits by the huge windows. The team welcomed us with sake poured into shallow ceramic cups. The cups had delicate leaf designs visible in the glaze, and as the sake filled them, the leaves changed colour, becoming more vibrant, autumn coming to life in our hands. It was a creative gesture that captured something essential about Japan: the celebration of seasons, and the pleasure found in precise and thoughtful detail.

The Room

Our King Premium View Room was on the south side of the building, looking out across the skyline of Osaka. The design was minimalist but warm. Dark wood furniture, polished black lacquer drawers in the steel-framed bar unit, and bright accents of red throughout: in the contemporary twisted wooden sculpture above the bed, the sofa, and even the coffee machine A chaise longue sat by the window. There was a desk with an ergonomic chair, plenty of storage, and a well-stocked bar with a beautiful Japanese cast iron teapot. Turndown brought a personalised weather forecast for the coming day and a proper carton of fresh milk for the next morning’s coffee. Small details, that define 5 star service.

Waking up here is memorable. The morning light came through those floor-to-ceiling windows, and the city stretched out below, all that architecture and space, inviting us to get out and explore.

The bathroom had a deep soaking tub, twin vanities, a separate shower, and the playful Conrad rubber duck. A Conrad Osaka bear waited on the bed. Amenities are Byredo.

Executive Lounge

Our booking included access to the executive lounge on the 39th floor. The space is comfortable with good views, but the visiting hours felt strict and wine or beers were unavailable outside set times.

Dinner at Kura

For dinner, we booked Kura, the hotel’s Japanese restaurant combining teppanyaki and sushi. We were looked after by Michael Adjoute, Assistant Director of Food and Beverage. Michael has lived in Japan for decades and built a life here, and his passion for the country runs deep. He joined us at each course to pour the wine, describe the dish, and share his love of Japanese food and drink.

We sat at the teppanyaki counter, the chef cooking directly in front of us. The experience began with wagyu nigiri and fish nigiri, the rice shaped from a classic wooden container at the adjacent sushi station. Then came a fish dish with Japanese mint, the skin prepared separately on the grill and cut with such precision it decorated the plate like artwork. Prime wagyu followed on the hot surface, alongside mushrooms, pak choi, and seasonal root vegetables each ingredient sliced and presented immaculately. There was a simply, yet precisely presented grape and melon dessert to close.

Michael guided us through Japanese wines we would never have found ourselves: a Grande Polaire Nagano Chardonnay 2023, and an Azuminoikeda Chardonnay 2021. He introduced us to Dassai 23, a sake made from Yamada-Nishiki rice polished to just 23 per cent of its original grain. He explained how different polishing levels produce different sakes, from Dassai 45 to the extreme refinement of the 23. A mini masterclass as we watched the chef prepare our meal.

Nightcap at 40 Sky Bar

After dinner, we headed to 40 Sky Bar and Lounge. The city glittered below. A Cuban band was playing, two excellent vocalists, lively and international and completely unexpected. I had a Negroni, my companion a Hibiki Japanese whisky.

The bartender brought over a popup book, and we opened it not knowing what to expect. You lay it on its side so the cover lifts up, pulling the first scene into three dimensions. Simple watercolour brush strokes, almost childlike, but clever. The first popup showed the river island where the Conrad sits, the twin towers of the building rising from the page. Turn further and each destination in the Kansai region has its theme: Water for Osaka, with its ship, Tsutenkaku Tower and Osaka Castle; Culture for Kyoto; Forest for Nara; Nature for Wakayama. Not a cocktail menu, but playful, creative, surprising destination storytelling.

Breakfast

Breakfast at Atmos Dining is worth taking leisurely. The 40th-floor view in the morning light is extraordinary. I had the okonomiyaki Benedict, the hotel’s signature dish, a clever fusion of Osaka’s famous savoury pancake with the brunch classic, finished with local Osaka Hermes sauce and pickled ginger tempura.

The Island

Nakanoshima sits between the Dojima and Tosabori rivers, and it has become Osaka’s cultural quarter. The Nakanoshima Museum of Art opened in 2022, its striking black cube designed by architect Endo Katsuhiko, housing over 6,000 works from Modigliani to the avant-garde Gutai movement. Next door, the National Museum of Art is an architectural rarity: a completely underground museum designed by César Pelli, the entrance structure inspired by the vitality of bamboo. The collection of around 8,200 works focuses on contemporary art from Japan and overseas since 1945. We visited during an excellent temporary exhibition. Galleries like Artcourt and Tezukayama showcase emerging Japanese artists nearby.

Osaka’s Kitchen

Osaka is the foodie capital of Japan, and Kuromon Market in Nipponbashi is unmissable. Established in 1902 and known as ‘Osaka’s Kitchen’ this 580-metre covered arcade is where local chefs and home cooks have sourced ingredients for generations. We wandered through, taking in the extraordinary variety of seafood and produce, until we spotted a small eatery that looked cosy and inviting and not at all touristy. Bar seating, a couple behind the counter, orders placed via an app. Wagyu cooked over an open flame, piping hot miso soup, sushi and fresh seafood. Simple and delicious. Outside, the stalls displayed huge crab legs, tiny octopus on sticks, and fruit so perfect it commands astonishing prices.

Destination: Osaka

Beyond Nakanoshima, Osaka rewards exploration. Osaka Castle is extraordinary, a dramatic structure set in expansive parklands. The Tsutenkaku Tower area is touristy but has a cool ambiance in the evenings. Dōtonbori with its famous Glico sign felt tacky to be honest. Time is better spent in the real neighbourhoods of this sprawling metropolis.

Final Thought

The Conrad Osaka has genuine visual impact. That arrival, all light and glass and vertiginous height, sets the tone for an unforgettable stay. Then there’s the thoughtfulness of the team: the sake cups bringing autumn to life, Michael’s insights at dinner, the popup book placed in our hands at the bar. We visited in autumn and Osaka revealed itself as a city of culture, food and genuine warmth.

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The entrance is easy to miss. A discreet doorway on a quiet Ginza side street, the facade finished in earthy plaster decorated with sculpted symbols made from soil excavated during construction.

You step inside and the transformation begins. The ground floor vestibule is gently lit and silent, a bamboo fence running along the wall, and a simple flower arrangement suspended, with a single spotlight casting the art of shadow. This is where you transition from the city to the urban resort. You are guided to the lifts and taken up to reception on the 12th floor, where check-in happens in a private booth and you are offered chilled yuzu juice from Kyoto. Everything here is about privacy. I was privileged to be among the very first guests to experience this remarkable property, FUFU’s first in Tokyo, and the attention to discretion was evident from the first moment.

Throughout the hotel, woven bamboo sculptures appear in quiet corners and transitional spaces. Simple and calming, in natural tones, they offer visual interest and a reference to artisan creativity, a gentle reminder that this is a contemporary interpretation of the traditional ryokan.

The Suite

The 34 suites range from Stylish Suites through Comfort, Precious Corner, Premium, and Luxury Corner categories, up to the flagship FUFU Luxury Premium Suites which can connect to create a grand space for private events. Executive versions on the higher floors offer enhanced views.

Our Luxury Corner Suite occupied 115 square metres on one of the upper floors. The entrance vestibule is where you take off your shoes, choosing slippers for the hardwood floors of the suite’s lobby including a private dressing room, separate W.C., and storage for luggage.

Beyond is the entrance to the suite, where pale green tatami mats are so fine and soft they were a pleasure under bare feet.

In the dressing area, drawers held two sets of pyjamas. Simple white ones, elegant and light, for wearing in the room. And sophisticated dark blue ones, complete with socks and jackets, designed for wearing with traditional geta sandals throughout the hotel. This is a private onsen resort, and guests are encouraged to wear their smart pyjamas anywhere, from the rooftop bar to the private dining rooms.

A connecting service hatch allowed staff to deliver room service and pressed clothes without disturbing us.

The main salon was generous, with a dining area, two sofas placed back to back, one facing the wraparound garden balcony, the other facing the television and built-in furniture. The minibar held a bespoke drawer with a Japanese teapot and two ceramic cups. On the counter was the welcome gift, Shiose Manju from Shiose Sohonke, a confectioner with over 670 years of history. The delicate manju, filled with smooth red bean paste in a yam and rice flour dough, was stamped with the FUFU Tokyo Ginza emblem. Exquisite.

The bedroom, open to the salon but closable with a large sliding screen, held two queen beds with western duvets and fine linens. The television was hidden behind sliding paper screens. Minimalist, but beautiful.

The play of light throughout the day was extraordinary. Morning light filtered through the trees and plants of our private sky garden, casting crisp silhouettes on the shoji screens. By midday, the shadows shifted. At dusk, the room glowed. You become aware of time passing in a calming, natural way.

The Garden

The wraparound balcony was unlike anything I have experienced in a city hotel. Japanese geta waited by the glass sliding doors. Outside, sofas and chairs sat amongst trees and plants, including bespoke places to set down a teapot or a drink. Each suite is named after its garden, ours featuring Japanese barberry with red berries among the greenery. High glass panels protected us from the breeze while framing views of Ginza’s towers. This was our secret garden in the sky.

The Onsen

The bathroom featured a private hot spring bath, the waters transported from FUFU’s own spring in Atami. The tub was edged in bamboo, the tiles textured in a design unique to each room. Water trickled constantly from a bamboo spout, velvety and warm, overflowing gently into the wet room where a small stool and wooden bowl waited for washing before entering the bath.

That first soak, late afternoon, was memorable. The water soft against the skin, with the steam rising, the lush garden beyond the window. Amenities were from FUFU’s own organic line, Komorebi, named for the Japanese word describing light filtering through leaves.

Yusora rooftop

Before dinner, we visited the rooftop lounge. Yusora is a garden in the sky. You find your private seating booth by a stone path winding through clipped pine trees and carefully placed greenery. Booths are positioned throughout the garden offering you a feeling of being alone in nature, each with a side table for placing a glass of wine. The complimentary bar runs from 4pm to 8pm each evening. As you sit, your feet rest in hot onsen waters.

We sat as dusk settled, wine in hand, feet in the warm water, watching the Ginza skyline glitter. It was the perfect way to begin the evening.

Dinner at Ginza Gayu

All dining at FUFU Tokyo Ginza is private. The Japanese restaurant Ginza Gayu is found on the 12th floor. You are shown to your own private space, ours with views over the sparkling towers of Ginza. A dedicated server looked after us throughout the evening, a charming young man who presented each course with knowledge.

The meal was kaiseki, and it was exceptional.

The starter arrived as a still life, with small dishes in individually designed ceramics arranged on a main plate, decorated with real ginkgo and Japanese maple leaves. Snow crab with deep-fried yuba and miso sauce. Sea urchin in bonito broth with wasabi. The appetiser course that followed was equally visual: ginkgo nuts with chestnut and raisin paste, steamed foie gras soup with carrot sauce and mozzarella, mackerel sushi with seaweed, persimmon with mixed nuts and marinated duck.

The soup arrived in a lacquered bowl with a lid, revealed with ceremony: steamed clams with sake, walnut tofu, matsutake mushroom, chrysanthemum greens sprinkled with yuzu zest.

The sashimi was presented in a basket filled with crushed ice: tuna toro, medium toro, lean cuts, peony shrimp with the head prepared tempura-style served apart on a ceramic dish, while the shrimp was on a Japanese mint leaf, on the ice.

The meat course was theatre. Wagyu wrapped in huge autumn leaves, presented on a large serving dish decorated with foliage and twigs. Our server lifted the wrapped parcels with chopsticks, as though foraging, then placed them before us, before unwrapping them to reveal the perfectly prepared beef. It came with grilled taro, lotus root, hawthorn sauce, rock salt, and wasabi.

A hot pot followed: abalone and suppon with white maitake, shiitake mushrooms, Japanese parsley, and goji berries. Then rice, the grains from a rare supplier, cooked in a special pot and served with reverence: conger eel tempura, shredded seaweed, sweet potato with perilla leaf, pickled vegetables, miso soup.

Dessert was pear compote with apple ice cream, strawberry, condensed milk bavarois, and carbonated jelly sprinkled with citrus zest.

It was one of the finest kaiseki meals I have eaten. The seasonal pairing course matched Japanese and European wines to each dish. We began with Ca’del Bosco Cuvée Prestige, an Italian Franciacorta, with the starter. The appetiser was paired with Koshu NOGI 2023, a FUFU limited edition white from 98Wines in Yamanashi. With the sashimi came Kaze no Mori Akitsuho, an unfiltered sake from Nara with a fresh, lively character. The wagyu was matched with Tatenohara Cabernet Franc & Tannat 2023 from Domaine Beau in Toyama, a small Japanese producer making wines with real personality. It was a masterclass in Japanese wine and sake.

Breakfast

Breakfast, also served in a private dining room, arrived in a tall wooden box. The server slid open the door to reveal the contents: individual bowls and lacquered boxes in red wood, arranged across four tiers. A paper guide showed us how to set them out on the mat before us.

The first tier held seasonal fish and vegetables, delicately simmered and marinated. The second, a rolled omelette fragrant with dashi, smooth grated yam, and handmade side dishes including fufu spicy cod roe and clams with vinegared miso. The third, warm simmered eggplant and deep-fried tofu with shimeji mushrooms. The fourth, assorted Japanese pickles with dried plum.

Alongside came grilled eel with sweet soy glaze, a hot pot of Edo-style sweet miso with local chicken and sakura shrimp dumplings, and rice cooked in a traditional pot from grains grown in Yamanashi. Fresh seasonal fruits to finish.

It was called Igayuuzen, FUFU Tokyo Ginza’s original breakfast, and it was a memorable morning ritual.

Sushi Ginga

I did not dine at the basement sushi counter, but I was shown the space. Sushi Ginga seats just eight at the counter, the design simple and beautiful, with folding screens on the seats, so guests can create private booths or open them to share the intimate experience with others. The chefs work directly before you. It is reserved for guests aged 10 and above.

Destination: Ginza

Stepping out from FUFU Tokyo Ginza into Ginza is an immersive experience. The hotel is quiet, understated, nurturing, while the neighbourhood is glamour and energy, flagship stores, and sparkling towers.

Ginza’s history as Tokyo’s first ‘brick town’ dates to the late 19th century, when Western-style Georgian buildings transformed the district into a symbol of modernity. Many of those original structures are gone, but a few landmarks remain. The Wako Building at the Ginza 4-chome crossing, with its distinctive curved corner and Seiko clock tower, dates from 1932 and remains the most recognisable building in the district.

The modern Ginza is a parade of flagship boutiques. Louis Vuitton’s striking white and gold facade. Tiffany & Co in a huge glass tower lit in the brand’s signature blue. Harry Winston was directly beside FUFU, while Bulgari and Hermès were close by. Ginza Six offers over 240 shops across multiple floors, its rooftop garden open to the public with fine views across the city. Tokyu Plaza Ginza, with its exterior replicating intricate Edo Kiriko cut glass, houses over 100 fashion and accessory shops.

At night, the window displays glow. We wandered out looking for karaoke, passing through the lights and energy for a late night out, before returning to the stillness of FUFU.

Final Thought

What stays with me is the quiet and the privacy, the nurturing quality of this property. FUFU Tokyo Ginza is ultra-luxury, certainly, but it is also something more, a place that leaves you feeling restored. The room was like a perfect city pied-à-terre, calming and beautifully considered. The tatami soft underfoot, the light shifting through paper screens, the onsen water velvety against the skin. Small details everywhere: woven bamboo sculptures in quiet corners, still-life flower arrangements visible as the lift doors open, each floor with its own style and fragrance. I fell in love with this urban resort.

FUFU’s philosophy is ‘a place to savour time.’ In Ginza, surrounded by the pace and polish of Tokyo’s most sophisticated district, they have created exactly that

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The Bohemian Bali

The Bohemian Bali is located in Ubud, surrounded by rice fields and tropical greenery just a short drive from the town centre. The property is intimate in scale, with a small collection of individually styled rooms and suites designed to feel more like a private home than a hotel. Its location offers a balance between easy access to Ubud’s cafés, galleries and temples, while maintaining a sense of retreat and quiet.

Décor leans towards an artistic and eclectic aesthetic, combining natural textures, handcrafted furniture and global influences. Rooms include open-air bathrooms, private terraces and thoughtful details that give each space its own personality. Facilities are deliberately low key, focusing on a tranquil swimming pool, shared lounge spaces and personalised service rather than extensive resort style amenities.

This hotel is best suited to couples, solo travellers and creatives looking for a relaxed base with character. It appeals to guests who value atmosphere, thoughtful design and a slower pace, and who prefer to spend their days exploring Ubud or unwinding by the pool.  

Magia de Uma

Magia de Uma in Umalas, Bali is an intimate boutique retreat just minutes from the vibrant beaches and cafés of Canggu, set amid tranquil rice fields that reflect the island’s soulful spirit. The hotel comprises a small collection of thoughtfully designed rooms and bungalows, each blending traditional Balinese craftsmanship with understated contemporary comfort to create a serene sanctuary for guests. With 14 beautifully appointed rooms, this private estate feels more like a refined home than a conventional hotel, inviting slow living and connection with nature. Guests can savour Indonesian-inspired cuisine that celebrates local flavours at the on-site restaurant, unwind in the spa with holistic treatments, take a dip in the pool overlooking lush paddies, or join sunrise yoga and wellness experiences that deepen the sense of wellbeing. Its calm gardens and heritage architecture are complemented by easy access to Canggu’s cultural and creative energy, making Magia de Uma a compelling choice for travellers seeking both restorative calm and authentic Balinese charm.

Desa Hay

Desa Hay is located in the rural area of Pererenan, close to Canggu and its setting within working rice fields give it a distinctly local feel. The hotel has a limited number of rooms and villas designed to reflect the idea of a modern Balinese village. Its location places guests close to the coast, cafés and beach clubs, while retaining a sense of space and calm.

The design blends contemporary architecture with traditional elements, using concrete, wood and local craftsmanship to create clean yet warm interiors. Rooms and villas are generous in size and include private outdoor spaces, while shared facilities include a swimming pool, open air dining areas and landscaped gardens.

Desa Hay suits travellers who want a stylish base near Bali’s social scene without being in the centre of it. It works well for couples and friends who would enjoy a relaxed village atmosphere with easy access to dining and beaches.

La Reserve 1785

La Reserve 1785 is a clifftop villa estate in Uluwatu, offering expansive ocean views and a strong sense of privacy. The property operates as an exclusive boutique stay, with a limited number of large villas rather than traditional hotel rooms.

The villas are spacious and refined, featuring private pools, multiple living areas and elegant interiors inspired by European heritage and Balinese craftsmanship. Facilities include personalised butler service, in villa dining, wellness treatments and access to shared lounges and gardens, all designed to feel private and unhurried.

Its location places guests close to Bali’s southern beaches and surf spots, while remaining secluded and discreet.

This property is located close to Bali’s southern beaches and surf spots. With an emphasis on seclusion and discretion, this is best suited to couples, families or small groups seeking space and privacy with a polished finish.

Hidden Hills Villas

Hidden Hills Villas is located in the hills of Uluwatu, offering dramatic views across the southern coastline. The property consists of a small collection of large private villas, each themed and designed to create a distinct mood.

Villas feature expansive living spaces, private pools, entertainment rooms and panoramic terraces. Interiors are bold and theatrical, with strong design concepts and a sense of occasion throughout. Facilities include personalised butler service, in-villa spa treatments, private dining experiences and access to curated excursions across the peninsula.

Hidden Hills Villas is ideal for travellers looking for a statement stay that combines views, space and high touch service, and who plan to spend much of their time enjoying the villa itself as part of the experience.

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Ayana Resort Bali

Located in Jimbaran on Bali’s southern coast, Ayana Resort Bali is one of the island’s foremost luxury properties and an excellent choice for families seeking space, variety and world-class facilities. The resort spans a dramatic clifftop estate overlooking Jimbaran Bay and comprises several accommodation options, including inter-connecting rooms, suites and villas with private pools. across multiple clusters.

With more than 300 rooms and villas set across multiple cluster, Ayana provides plenty of space for families of different sizes and ages. The hotel’s key family-friendly features include a well-regarded kids’ club, children’s pool with water slides, a playground and supervised activities. Adults can enjoy the renowned spa, multiple restaurants ranging from casual family-friendly dining to refined seafood and Japanese cuisine, and access to the famous Rock Bar. What really sets Ayana apart is the scale of experiences on offer without feeling overwhelming. And for those wishing to venture beyond the resort, its location near Jimbaran Beach also gives families easy access to gentle sandy shores ideal for paddling and sunset dinners.

The Apurva Kempinski Bali

The Apurva Kempinski Bali is perched above the Indian Ocean on the dramatic cliffs of Ungasan on the Bukit Peninsula. This resort combines contemporary Indonesian design with sweeping ocean vistas and generous spaces, making it both visually striking and highly practical for families.

The resort has around 500 rooms, suites and villas, many featuring private plunge pools and sea views. Families are especially well served with dedicated kids’ amenities such as a children’s club, family pool, babysitting services and a wide array of activities that introduce younger guests to Balinese culture and nature. Dining choices range from relaxed international fare to refined fine dining, ensuring options for all ages.

What makes The Apurva particularly suited to families is its ability to balance grandeur with intimacy. Large family suites and villas offer comfortable bases for extended stays, while thoughtful extras, experiences and concierge-led excursions help families tailor their days, making this a place for a truly memorable and diverse holiday in Bali.

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay

Located on the golden sands of Jimbaran Bay, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay is a longstanding favourite among luxury travellers and an exceptional choice for families who value personalised service and understated elegance. The resort reflects traditional Balinese design alongside lush tropical gardens and direct access to one of Bali’s most tranquil stretches of beach.

The property comprises around 147 rooms and suites alongside a selection of spacious villas with private pools and garden spaces. The Four Seasons’ Kids For All Seasons club is one of the resort’s standout features, offering a variety of activities that celebrate local traditions, crafts and nature including cooking classes, cultural performances and environmental workshops, ensuring children engage with the destination in meaningful ways.

Facilities include multiple swimming pools suitable for all ages, a dedicated family pool, beachfront dining and an acclaimed spa. The calm waters of Jimbaran Bay are ideal for gentle swimming and paddle-boarding, and the resort’s location means ease of access to nearby attractions like Uluwatu Temple. This is a superb base for families wishing to combine luxury and leisure with exploration.

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

Set in the lush Ayung River Valley near Ubud, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan offers a distinctive family-friendly experience centred on nature, culture and serenity. The setting feels worlds away from the island’s beaches, inviting families to slow down and immerse themselves in jungle landscapes, rice terraces and creative Balinese heritage.

Accommodation at Sayan ranges from expansive suites to spacious villas, many with river views and generous living spaces. The resort’s intimate scale and thoughtful design mean that even families seeking privacy feel immediately at ease. The Kids For All Seasons programme is tailored to encourage curiosity and confidence in children through nature walks, art and craft sessions, music and dance workshops rooted in local tradition.

Facilities include riverside dining, a central lotus pond surrounded by dramatic architecture, a family-friendly swimming pool and curated excursions into Ubud’s cultural heart. Family stays here are ideal for those who prioritise a connection with nature and cultural enrichment alongside luxury.

The St. Regis Bali Resort

The St. Regis Bali Resort sits on the beachfront in Nusa Dua, an area known for its calm lagoons and well-maintained beaches. The resort includes around 123 suites and villas, many with direct lagoon or ocean access and private outdoor areas.

Families benefit from spacious accommodation, a dedicated children’s learning centre, family pools and gentle beach conditions ideal for swimming. The St. Regis Butler Service adds a layer of ease for families, assisting with everything from unpacking to tailored dining and daily planning. Dining ranges from relaxed beachfront options to refined international cuisine.

This resort suits families who value polished service, space and a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. The calm setting and attentive approach make it particularly appealing for families travelling with younger children.

The Oberoi Beach Resort Bali

The Oberoi Beach Resort Bali is located in Seminyak, set within tropical gardens overlooking the Indian Ocean. With just over 70 rooms and villas, it offers a more intimate alternative to Bali’s larger family resorts.

Families are accommodated in spacious villas with private gardens and pools, while facilities include a beachfront swimming pool, cultural activities, cooking classes and personalised dining. The calm, attentive service style ensures families feel well supported without the resort feeling busy or overwhelming.

This hotel suits families seeking classic Balinese elegance in a central location. It is ideal for those who value privacy, service and proximity to Seminyak’s dining and shopping, while still enjoying a peaceful retreat.

The Samaya Seminyak Bali

The Samaya Seminyak Bali is located in Seminyak, offering a villa only beachfront experience that combines privacy with access to the area’s vibrant dining scene. The resort comprises a limited number of large private pool villas arranged between the beachfront and a quieter riverside section.

For families, the villa format is the main appeal. Villas provide ample space, private pools and in villa dining options, supported by discreet personalised service. While facilities are intentionally minimal, the focus on space, flexibility and location works well for families who prefer independence.

The Samaya is best suited to families with older children or those comfortable managing their own schedules. It appeals to travellers who value space, beachfront living and a central Seminyak location over structured resort activities.

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