Around the world there is an incredible range of unusual and inspiring hotels to explore. Read our top 5 list of where to visit.
Phum Baitang, the “green village”, Cambodia
Immerse yourself in this special hotel, set in acres of lush gardens and paddy fields. Watch the grazing water buffalo, take a bike ride along the wooden pathways criss-crossing the local countryside. Phum Baitang is built like a Khmer village and the villas are open plan and rustic. Luxury rustic which makes this a perfect choice for a list of unusual and inspiring hotels. With stone baths and sinks and all the colours are earth shades. There are 2 restaurants serving fresh local fish and rice from the surrounding paddy fields. All the vegetables and herbs are grown in their gardens.
Spend your day sight-seeing at the nearby temples at Angkor UNESCO world heritage site or visiting the vibrant markets. Then return to your little piece of luxury to relax. With the gardens and restaurants lit up by candles and the aroma of the gently cooking curries there is a feeling of coming home. Siem Reap is a tuk tuk ride away, so if the buzz of a night out is calling this can also be arranged. A visit to this hotel will never be forgotten.
Singita Sabora, Tanzania
What I would call the ultimate “Out of Africa” experience. Return back in time to the 1920s with all the furniture and fabrics. Dining at antique tables, set with linen tablecloths and crystal goblets. For a moment you may believe you are Meryl Streep or Robert Redford. It is only the modern facilities, like satellite TV and an infinity swimming pool that reminds you that it is 2020.
The camp consists of 9 luxury en suite tents. Each with wooden decking overlooking the grasslands with grazing zebras as your backdrop. Spend a day out on a game drive in open topped land drovers experiencing the wilderness. In the evenings spend time around a camp fire. Star gaze, listen to the sounds of the Serengeti and reminisce on the experience of the day. The food throughout the day is delicious and the evening meal is served with a wonderful selection of wines. Of course the fridge is always full of Champagne and soft drinks. A safari of a by gone age.
In partnership with non-profit funds and trust Singita is helping to preserve and protect the wildlife and improve conditions for the local communities.
The Caves, Jamaica in the top 5 unusual and inspiring hotels
If the Singita Sabora is “Out of Africa” The Caves is a pirate hideaway. The 12 unique cottages, all designed differently but authentically Jamaican. Positioned on Limestone cliffs overlooking the crystal sea. Hidden below are the amazing caves where you can indulge in a private dining experience. Or visit the fabulous Rum Bar.
This is the ultimate laid back luxury hotel. Offering privacy, wellness at the spa or an underwater exploration, snorkelling around the rocks watching the colourful fish gliding past. Experience wholesome home cooking at its best, with mouth-watering dishes prepared using fresh local produce. There are 3 restaurants from fine dining to the famous Jerk BBQ.
It doesn’t have to be all peace and tranquillity. Just a few minutes away is the vibrant town of Negril, with its bars and nightclubs. So, if it’s dancing all night that can be arranged too. This hotel is a one off.
Kasbah Tamadot, Morocco
This is the place for rest and relaxation. A retreat for the soul. Located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, a more stunning setting is hard to find. Owned by Sir Richard Branson, who was enchanted by this Moroccan hideaway in 1998. Who discovered it midway through one of his hot air ballooning adventures. There are 28 rooms and suites all with their own unique features. Full of antique fabrics and furniture. The dining area has outstanding views as far as the eye can see. Combine this with delicious cuisine, all made with local produce and served alongside international and Moroccan wines. With most of the staff from the surrounding area you are immersed in the Kasbah Tamadot way.
The list of things to do is endless from hiking in the Atlas Mountains to cooking courses and golf. Make sure you don’t miss out on visiting the Spa and traditional Hamman. Supporting the community is at the heart of this resort, they are a member of Pack for a Purpose. Asking travellers to save a little space in their luggage for children’s pens, paper and colouring books and any clothes they wish to donate to the local people. A magical place to experience.
Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, France
One may think this is a strange inclusion in a top 5 but George V is an art-deco extravaganza. This eight-story hotel cost approximately £24million to build and opened in 1928. It was named after the British monarch as a sign of the friendship between the two countries. It really very well in our top 5 unusual and inspiring hotels list for it’s beauty.
The opulent period interiors really do halt your progress through the lobby. With the decadent flower arrangements that are famous throughout the world. Located just off the Champs-Elysees, a better position is hard to find and many a celebrity can be seen at this address. The suites are enormous and many of them have fantastic views of the Eiffel Tower.
The newly renovated spa which includes a Hamman is a perfect retreat after a day sight-seeing in the busy city of Paris. The décor is dripping with beautiful antique furniture, spectacular tapestries and artwork. The hotel boasts 5 Michelin stars amid its 3 restaurants. It has its own kitchen garden a little way out of Paris where most of the fruit and vegetables are grown and meats are locally sourced for the diners. The kitchens run a programme to try and reduce any excessive food waste. The Four Seasons Hotel George V is worth a visit for afternoon tea or an evening drink just to experience the atmosphere at this great architectural masterpiece.
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