Author name: Aleks Bond

Just 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé, CROSSROADS Maldives invites guests to explore a multi-island escape where SAii Lagoon Maldives, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, SO/ Maldives, and the Curio Collection by Hilton converge with The Marina’s restaurants, boutiques, and yacht-lined boardwalks. This festive season, immerse yourself in champagne toasts, sunset sails, ocean-view wellness rituals, artisanal dining, and hands-on coral restoration. Experience luxury, adventure, and mindful celebration across three islands

Yellow Zebra Travel has curated an 11-night South African itinerary visiting three Michelin Key properties: Ellerman House in Cape Town, Delaire Graff Lodges & Spa in the Winelands, and Londolozi Granite in the Sabi Sands. From coastal clifftops to vineyard vistas and riverside bush camps, the journey blends thoughtful pacing, personal service, and landscapes that reflect the country’s quiet, refined luxury

Amongst the Swiss Alps, Andermatt offers snow-dusted charm, reliable slopes, and a relaxed festive vibe. Powder Byrne’s New Year packages showcase the best of the village, from the luxurious Chedi Hotel Andermatt to the modern Radisson Ski Lodge and the spacious Andermatt Alpine Apartments. With transfers, guides, and resort support included, guests can simply enjoy skiing, trails, and alpine indulgence

Oliver’s Travels unveils a curated collection of 15 villas along San Sebastian’s Basque coast, offering elevated retreats, seaside elegance, and countryside serenity. Each property combines refined design with comfort, from panoramic hillside views to steps-from-the-sea sophistication. With private pools, terraces, and access to world-class cuisine and golf, Oliver’s Travels ensures discerning travellers experience the region in unparalleled style

The French Charentes region transforms between November and March when distillation season begins. Explore Cognac opens doors to this quieter period, revealing centuries-old production methods behind stone walls whilst golden winter light illuminates bare vineyards. Copper stills work their magic, fresh Atlantic oysters pair with aged spirits, and family-run operations welcome guests

In St Lucia’s southwest, Anse Chastanet continues to refine what Caribbean hospitality can be. Recent additions, from coral restoration dives to intimate eight-seat dinners in the treetops deepen the resort’s connection to its landscape. It’s a considered evolution, where conservation, cuisine, and calm coexist in one of the region’s most quietly confident settings

Launched at London’s Number Six at The Marylebone Hotel, Club Avandra introduces a new kind of travel for women who refuse to compromise. Founded by leading female travel specialists and guided by lifestyle director Marianne Jones, the members-only community offers expert-led journeys, from Julia Kemp’s chic Verbier escape to insider experiences in Malta, Marrakesh and beyond

The Musée des Arts Décoratifs at the Louvre presents the legendary Orient Express in “1925–2025: A Century of Art Deco.” Seventeen meticulously restored carriages reveal the artistry of Maxime d’Angeac and master French craftsmen, seamlessly blending historic glamour with contemporary design. The result is a moving celebration of timeless luxury, craftsmanship, and the enduring romance of travel

December brings the world’s golfing professionals back to La Réserve Golf Links for the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open, scheduled from 18th to 21st. Last year’s tournament generated record economic returns for the island, and this year’s event promises to reinforce Mauritius as a serious destination for the sport. Yet whilst the professionals compete, another story emerges across the island’s established resort properties

In the shadow of the Pantheon, Orient Express La Minerva transforms a 17th-century palazzo into a sanctuary of Roman refinement. Designed by Hugo Toro, four new signature suites blend frescoed ceilings and travertine fireplaces with bespoke Italian artistry. Each suite captures a different facet of the city’s spirit, marking a confident new chapter in timeless hospitality