Escapes For Two

By Eve Tedja

From a private island in Fiji to an opulent waterfront suite in Istanbul, embark on a romantic holiday in three of the world’s most alluring destinations.

COMO LAUCALA ISLAND

Accessible by a 50-minute private air charter from Fiji’s Nadi International Airport, the 12-square-kilometre private island is made of rainforest, volcanic mountains, blue lagoons, mangroves, and unique biodiversity. Twenty-five residences are thoughtfully placed on the island’s private beaches or atop hills, guaranteeing privacy and unforgettable views. Whether it’s a Peninsula Residence situated on a rocky perch that comes with access to a private beach set within a cove or an overwater villa that floats above a lagoon, there is a suitable accommodation to every whim and fancy. The residences are designed in a relaxed South Pacific style, fusing local sensibilities with COMO’s contemporary flair.

The island offers a myriad of facilities as well as land and water activities. Experience the thrills of playing at a18-hole David McLay Kidd designed golf-course, sailing with a Riviera 41 Flybridge yacht, horseback riding along the beach, and scuba diving. Renowned for its holistic wellness philosophy, COMO Shambhala Retreat offers dedicated Asian-inspired massages and body treatments using the island’s own rich mineral crystals and river stones.

GARY HENDEN - General manager of COMO Laucala Island

“COMO Laucala Island is an exclusive private island. The resort offers an unparalleled level of luxury living, from 1,500 to 11,000 square metres of space per residence. We are proud of our sustainable farm-to-table living where the property’s 240-acre farm sufficiently supply us with a wide range of organically grown crops, from tropical fruits and vegetables grown in hydroponic nurseries to livestock. Fresh fish and other seafood supplies are sourced from local fishermen. Savour these produce in our five restaurants and bars. Our dining attractions include romantic candlelight dinners on the private beach, fine dining at the elegant Plantation House Restaurant, pan-Asian delicacies at Seagrass Restaurant, a spectacular sundowner cocktail at Rock Lounge, tropical drinks and light bites at Pool Bar, and last but not least, a barbecue at Beach Bar. COMO Shambhala Cuisine is also available, focussing on a perfectly calibrated mix of raw and cooked ingredients with very specific nutritional purposes to support guests’ well-being goals”.

BVLGARI HOTEL PARIS

Situated on the Avenue George V and the city’s fashionable 8th arrondissement, the hotel is a confluence of fashionable Parisian culture and Italian luxury. Designed and restyled by Milan-based Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel in collaboration with French architectural firm Valode & Pistre, the hotel offers 76 exquisitely decorated rooms and suites, with terraces and loggias to enjoy the city’s views. Each accommodation is designed in the style of a private apartment and furnished with the highest quality brands, from armchairs by Maxalto to cashmere blankets by Enzo degli Angiuoni.

Undoubtedly, the Bulgari Penthouse is the hotel’s crowning glory. Occupying the top two floors, it spans across 1,000 square metres and features a Mediterranean hanging garden where a panoramic view of Paris can be enjoyed. Bespoke treatments can be had at The Bulgari Spa, adjacent to the wellness facility which also includes a 25-metre mosaic-lined swimming pool, a Roman bath-inspired vitality pool, and a Workshop Gymnasium. Head to the Bulgari Bar for libations and enjoy a tête-à-tête at the Lounge with its plush armchairs and cosy fireplace.

SYLVAIN ERCOLI - General manager of Bulgari Hotel Paris

“Bulgari’s distinctive characteristic is its penchant for stylistic audacity in colour coordination. Most of its jewellery takes inspiration from Roman architecture, and that also extends to the design of the Bulgari Hotel Paris. We share the same passion for beautiful things, a job well done and artistic craftsmanship – bello e ben fatto (meaning beautiful and well-made in Italian). Guests are invited to savour our unique gastronomic destination, Il Ristorante – Niko Romito. Coming from Reale, a three-Michelin starred restaurant in Abruzzo region, the chef reinvents the transalpine cuisine tradition with essential ingredients as well as Italian elegance and vitality.”

MANDARIN ORIENTAL BOSPHORUS, ISTANBUL

The city’s mighty straight is an inseparable feature and inspiration behind the hotel design. Enveloped by two public parks, waterfront walkways and a protected forest, the hotel illuminates the historical splendour of the city, a place where East and West collide. With a hundred opulent guest rooms and suites, extensive wellness and beauty treatments at Spa at Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul; and facilities such as hammams, fitness rooms as well as indoor and outdoor pools, the guests’ well-being truly takes first place in this hotel.

HARUN DURSUN - General manager of Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul

“Having the closest proximity to the sea, Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul is the city’s newest luxury property on the shores of the Bosphorus. Most of our room inventory have views of the strait from their terrace or balcony. I highly recommend a stay at the one-bedroom Royal Bosphorus Suite or the unique Naile Sultan Suite with its stunning waterfront view and private hot tub. Bringing together innovative Asian and Italian cuisines in a “market” concept, Novikov Istanbul serves delicious sushi varieties, special pan-Asian delicacies, and marvellous Mediterranean eats in its menu. Give the Duck Salad, Novikov Black Code and Miso Baby Chicken a try. Novikov Lounge Bar catches the eye with its contemporary design and impressive architectural elements while making a difference with its drinks menu and original mixology philosophy.”

 

Gourmet Traveller