Tag Archives: luxury hotel

Huka Lodge. Taupo, New Zealand

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I often get asked which property is a favorite among my well traveled clients with discerning taste. It seems quite hard to narrow down a top 10, but Huka Lodge is one of those places that it is always on that list.

Built in 1924, Huka Lodge oozes tranquility and charm like no other place. It is not surprising why this property is a favorite among the Royal Family, especially Queen Elizabeth when visiting this fantastic island.

From its remote location, to the unparalleled service, Huka Lodge is a dream come true for nature lovers and romantic travelers. It nestles on the banks of the mighty Waikato River, upstream from Huka Falls in a location of immense natural beauty. Its views of snow capped mountains is just the cherry on the top.

The property is nestled in 17-acres of magnificent grounds, with only 26 suites. All of the suites with its own charm, yet with the same level of luxury. This is a fantastic surprise for guests, since every time you stay at Huka Lodge you get a different feel and it never gets old.

My absolute favorite thing to do is to have a glass of a local sauvignon blanc, while sitting in the exquisite sofa at the Alan Eye cottage and a roaring fire during sunset.

The decor is my second favorite thing about this property. The rustic antiques mixed with  Maori antiquities, gorgeous paintings and textiles rich in texture mix exquisitely with the architecture.

Lastly, there is no shortage of exciting activities for the adventure travelers. Everything from fly fishing and skydiving, to jet boating and kayaking, this spot is ideal for adrenaline junkies like myself.

 

Mukul Beach Golf & Spa. Nicaragua

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At the Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa Resort, the Emerald Coast of Nicaragua is your backyard, and what better place is there to call home than the 1,670 acre private beach community that is Mukul? The resort opened in 2013 and each of its 37 accommodations has its own ocean view, pool, and staff.

Don Carlos Pellas, a Nicaraguan entrepreneur, had his vision come to life with Mukul. Mukul means “secret” in Nicaraguan and Pellas’ goal was to make Mukul among one of the most exclusive and luxurious boutique hotels in the world. The property features 12 one and two bedroom beach villas, which boast nine-foot ceilings and glass walls for an amazing view of Playa Manzanillo. Each room is equipped with the aforementioned private pool, a palapa to enjoy both sun and shade, a wrap-around porch, and a garden with a hidden outdoor shower. The one bedroom is ideal for a romantic getaway, but if you want to bring the family along, the two bedroom suites are equipped with a private kitchen, pantry and living room.

Additionally, Mukul has 23 Bohios nestled into the hillside above Playa Manzanillo. Situated like tree houses, the Bohios offer unbelievable views of the surf and sand, as well as privacy as unique as it comes. Made from sustainable, native teak and pine, the Bohios each have a private wooden deck, a plunge pool, and a shower with a view.

The third accommodation option is the Casona Don Pellas – the epitome of Nicaraguan hospitality. Casona Don Pellas is the Pellas’ family beach home and is open to guests when the family is out of town. The villa is 20,000 square foot indoor and outdoor, spacious living area with an 80-foot high palapa ceiling. It has four bedroom suites, a wrap-around terrace and a private swimming pool. The fact that the family opens up their own home to guests of Mukul shows how sincerely they believe in true hospitality.

You’ll spend your nights at Mukul at the gorgeous, open-air Mukul Beach Club – a sanctuary for guests to enjoy snacks, Flor de Caña Rum cocktails, and a split-level bar and lounge. Eat at the palapa-covered Beach Terrace or at Parilla, where they serve dishes inspired by the Americas and local Nicaraguan cuisine; produce grown by local farmers and a daily catch brought in by Nicaraguan fishermen.

Other amenities include an 18-hole golf course designed by Scottish native David McLay Kidd, which finishes only steps from the waves and sand. Spa Mukul is made up of six casitas, each of which are completely private to enhance guest experiences. At the beach, guests will find surfboards, paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling gear and water toys.

Mukul is the absolute ideal location in Nicaragua, and if we have not yet given you enough reason to check-in to Mukul, let us add that it’s as luxurious as any boutique location we’re used to, but with half the price point.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

The Wauwinet. Nantucket, MA. USA

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When you think of Nantucket you think of all-American past-times such as sailing, tennis, and fishing. However, The Wauwinet, located in the northeast corner of the island of Nantucket, is also recognized worldwide for its superior service, outstanding cuisine and luxurious accommodations. What looks like a tiny Bed and Breakfast, is a charming blend of history and sophistication.

As soon as you set foot at the Wauwinet, the breathtaking landscape and views, historical architecture and a variety of amenities will make you fall in love with this one-of-a kind destination.

The historic hotel has 32-guestr rooms as well as 4 charming cottages. Each of the rooms is uniquely decorated with one-of-a-kind furnishings with hand-stenciled finishes, 400-thread-count Pratesi linens, and an abundance of fresh Nantucket wildflowers.

My favorite room at this hotel would have to be One-Bedroom Cottage Suite; it has the essence of privacy but in actuality is still very cozy. While the rooms may be small, the beds are delicious, you’ll never want to get out they’re so comfy!

The biggest surprise was the hotel’s restaurant. Topper’s is one of the most acclaimed restaurants on the island and recognized around the United States. However, don’t even think about ordering anything other than their New England clam chowder, it is to die for. The other must is the lobster roll, you will not be disappointed.

While the town of Nantucket has so many activities and fun things to do year-round, the best time of the year to go is the Fourth of July. The celebrations are wonderful and the island does it’s own fireworks show. This holiday is truly something to be experienced here at least once in your life and if you do so, your stay at the Wauwinet will make it all the better!

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.