The start of a new year means only one thing: making endless lists of things to do! And as usual, travel gurus at Lightfoot Travel are on the look out for hot upcoming hotels and destinations to test out in 2016. They give us their list of top places that are on their radar for the upcoming year. Inspired?
The Silo – The Royal Portfolio
This once discarded Grain Silo has gotten a hefty makeover and is returning as a luxury hotel, The Silo, in the heart of Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront. Slated to open end of 2016, this magical space is bound to become one of the city’s most iconic hotels in no time, with its stunning views over the harbour and the majestic Table Mountain. We’re also particularly excited about the rooftop champagne bar and rooftop glass swimming pool!
Six Senses Zil Pasyon – Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas
Why settle for one private beach when you can have three at Six Senses Zil Pasyon? The group’s first Seychelles property - located on Felicite, a private island that can only be described as dramatic - is set to open sometime in 2016. Scattered over massive granite rocks, the villas offer exceptional views of the sea. And of course a resort of this calibre would not be complete without a Six Senses Spa to unwind and let go of our hectic lives. The perfect R&R getaway.
Skylodge Adventure Suites
For a good dose of adventure, the Skylodge Adventure Suites overlooking Peru’s Sacred Valley ticks all of the boxes! The world’s first ever hanging lodge is accessible only by zip lining and hiking or via ferrata climbing. The pods sleep up to 4 persons, and yes there are toilets, even hanging up on a cliff! With stunning views, it is truly a unique experience and a must try - though clearly not for the faint of heart!
Alila Seminyak - Alila Hotels and Resorts
Alila Hotels opened up its fifth hotel in Bali in 2015. The Alila Seminyak Bali is a beachfront retreat within a lush garden. Contemporary architecture is woven through lush terraces, wall-hugging plants, green roofs - the environment and having a low environmental footprint is at the heart of this beautifully designed resort, where tropical cool is omnipresent. With direct flights from Dubai, it would seem a shame not to add this wonderful island on your list of travels for 2016.
Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley – One&Only Resorts
For the ultimate luxury getaway in the Blue Mountains, Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is the only option we would consider whilst in the area. If you like to drive, we recommend making the 3-hour scenic drive, but if you are anxious to get there, opt for the 45-minute helicopter ride: heavenly! The villas are reminiscent of traditional Australian homestead making the most of the astounding landscapes all around. There is much to experience in the outback: conservation activities, guided nature walks, horse riding, observing wildlife, to name a few.
Blue Mosque
Built in 1872 for Ignazio Corpi, a powerful Genoese shipbuilder, the Italian style mansion has gone through extensive renovations to re-emerge as the Soho House Istanbul. Intricate details are aplenty in this historic building, where the design bridges Eastern and Western styles seamlessly. The rooftop pool is the perfect respite from a day of exploring vibrant Istanbul, and the bar offers stunning views over the Golden Horn. As this is first and foremost a Members Only Club, there is a no photos rule in place - which can be frustrating as the entire property is Instagram-worthy!
Lightfoot Travel is a Singapore-based luxury tour operator offering expert travel advice and inspiration, tailor-made itineraries and full booking services.