The pool at Gundari, Folegandros, Greece. Photograph courtesy of Gundari. Gundari, Folegandros Island, Greece
Few places in the world offer escapism for weary travellers like the Greek Islands. This European hotspot has long enticed visitors with its turquoise waters, balmy climate, and distinctive white-washed architecture. While Santorini, Corfu, and Mykonos are the better-known islands, the recent opening of the luxury resort Gundari provides an alluring reason to explore the secluded Folegandros.
Perched on an untouched cliff with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea, Gundari spans an 80-acre nature reserve. The resort embraces the leisurely pace of its surroundings with a heated pool, and swim-up bar, inviting guests to linger in the Cycladic sun. When hunger strikes, the open-air dining area offers dishes crafted by Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou, who brings together the finest ingredients from sea and land with a passion for refined Greek cuisine.
The five-star resort features 25 suites and two villas designed to complement the landscape with stone walls, as well as earthy colours, and rustic textures extending into the interiors. Each haven boasts a private pool and sea-facing terrace, while the villas include their own jetted tubs.
The resort’s appeal extends beyond traditional amenities. Gundari is home to a wellness spa featuring state-of-the-art hydrotherapy facilities with treatments inspired by ancient Greek thermal and cleansing baths, using local extracts and wild herbs. Onsite practitioners and teachers invite guests to truly unwind through sound baths, energy healing, yoga, and meditation workshops. www.gundari.com.
The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins, Melbourne
Pack your best coat because this month is a vibrant time to be in Melbourne. With new restaurant openings like Hopper Joint, the return of Rising Festival and the buzz of AFL season, you’ll want a central location to soak in all the action. Enter The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins, an iconic landmark located in the heart of the CBD. Offering elegance and convenience just a short walk from Marvel Stadium, this historic gem is currently offering “A Marvel Escape” package which includes overnight accommodation, a complimentary drink for two in The Alexander Bar, and a buffet breakfast for two.
Oceania Cruises’ Marina Returns to Service After an Extensive Refurb
You might be familiar with the Regatta, Oceania Cruises’ luxury vessel renowned for its recently updated staterooms and tranquil Aquamar Spa. The Riviera, with its grand scale and designer touches, epitomises timeless sophistication. However, the spotlight is now on the Marina, which has returned to service after an extensive refurbishment. The revamp introduces three new dining options: Aquamar Kitchen, the new wellness-focused dining venue, which debuted on Vista last year; a poolside ice cream parlour serving milkshakes and smoothies; and a new al fresco Pizzeria.
“Marina is the first – the original – ship designed by foodies, built by foodies, for foodies,” said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises.
Beyond these new dining additions, the refurbishment also includes significant upgrades to the Marina’s 124 Penthouse Suites, featuring custom-crafted furniture, increased storage, and sleek Italian marble bathrooms. Whether you’re planning a winter sail to Europe or have been considering a cruise on this luxurious vessel, now is the perfect time with upcoming journeys such as Copenhagen to London and London to Rome. oceaniacruises.com.
Coming Soon: The Sundays, Hamilton Island
When one thinks of luxury accommodation on Hamilton Island, the first resort to come to mind might be Qualia, the secluded adults-only retreat at the northern tip of the island. Last month, the same company behind Qualia announced a $30 million boutique hotel coming, The Sundays Hotel, is opening soon on Catseye Beach in the Great Barrier Reef. Designed with families in mind, The Sundays features 59 rooms that reflect Hamilton Island’s tropical charm and offer picturesque views of the Coral Sea.
Guests can enjoy private cabanas by the pool, a waters-edge restaurant, and al fresco dining. Set to open in Autumn 2025, the hotel is expected to create more than 100 full-time jobs in the Whitsundays region. hamiltonisland.com.au.
Singita Ebony, South Africa
When in the heart of nature, notice the profound stillness. It’s not just about the surroundings; amidst the bush, you might wake to the playful chatter of vervet monkeys or the gentle rustle of a placid nyala. This inner calm emerges from embracing the seclusion of a nature reserve, far from the hustle of urban life. At Singita lodges in South Africa, there are no to-do lists upon arrival — aside from making your morning safari.
Following extensive renovations, the Singita Ebony provides more reasons to travel to South Africa’s private Sabi Sand Reserve. Situated on 45,000-acre, the lodge’s redesign has been executed by renowned South African designers Cecile & Boyd. Drawing inspiration from the flowing lines of Adobe architecture in North and West Africa, the new design blends antiques and heirlooms with modern artworks sourced from local artisans. The lodge features 14 reimagined suites, each with a private plunge pool, open-planned layouts, and an earthy colour palette – seamlessly integrating the African bush.
Central to the lodge is a new conservation room, an educative space where guests can learn about the local environment and Singita’s conservation efforts. Additional enhancements include a signature bar deli, a relocated wine cellar, a new lounge area, and expanded decking that wraps around the lodge. Singita Ebony invites guests not just to stay, but to immerse themselves in the natural environment of Sabi Sand. singita.com.
