The collection:
What's New in the Indian Ocean
Craving a dose of warming winter sun?
Read about four enticing new openings in the Indian Ocean.
RE-IMAGINED CASTAWAY
Waldorf Astoria Platte Island, Seychelles
Timed to coincide with our chilly UK winter, the opening of Waldorf Astoria Platte Island will be the perfect antidote to winter blues. Located on its own tropical island and accessible by private plane from Mahe in the Seychelles, the Waldorf stands out for the pristine nature and secluded beauty of the resort – this is a modern-day castaway experience where you can disconnect from life as you know it.
Nature and wildlife work in tandem with the hotel, which has been built with the environment in mind, utilising solar power and creating a garden brimming with produce. Testament to the untouched seascapes, the ocean, lagoon and coral reef are full of marine life from hawksbill turtles to reef sharks, eagles rays, migratory seabirds and passing whales. The hotel also has a marine conservation discovery centre where curious guests can find out more, as well as a spa replete with hammam, tennis courts and a kids’ club.
“This exciting new Indian Ocean idyll promises to be a true paradise, set on its own exquisite private island, where seafront villas with private pools are dotted along the pristine beach”
BEST FOR
Those who like feeling truly away from it all will love the exclusive tropical-luxe feel of the Waldorf Astoria Platte Island. It’s also a great option for families or multi-generational groups, as some of the larger villas have up to five bedrooms.
A TRIO OF ISLANDS
Six Senses Kanuhura, Maldives
Made up of not one but three tropical islands, to say that Six Senses Kanuhura has a desirable location is rather an understatement. Dotted like pearls in an iridescent sea, Kanuhura and her islands are a combination of sheer natural beauty and a bold, modern castaway style. The finish here is very much polished, a break away from the rustic look of many of Kanuhura’s Maldivian contemporaries.
The largest of the three islands is where the habitation resides, alongside one of the Maldives’ biggest beaches. Capacious overwater villas and beachfront residences spread out on the sandy shore and over the aquamarine Indian Ocean. Hidden between the coconut trees are the secluded beach retreats offering a more private escape. The additional two islands are set up for pure fun – such as under-the-stars dining and authentic castaway experiences. One activity to bookmark is sunset gazing from the multi-layered Point restaurant and bar, where you can watch the sun set on another day in paradise.
“Set yourself adrift on one of three tropical islands at Six Senses Kanuhura, and enjoy exquisite seclusion in a paradisical setting.”
BEST FOR
Those that like to be active and explore; across three islands there’s plenty to keep kids, teens, parents and couples happy on land, on the water and below the waves.
ARABIAN PALACE
LUX* Marijani, Zanzibar
Inspired by the traders that came from afar to export the exotic spices from Zanzibar, LUX* Marijani is a mix of architectural styles and Swahili culture with its white-washed walls, ornate wooden doorways, terrazzo tiles and coral. Located on Zanzibar’s peaceful northeast coastline, the hotel sits on a sandy beach, washed by the azure tides of the Zanzibar archipelago. At the property’s heart is a large swimming pool, echoing the blues of the East African skies while the hotel’s suites fan along the sandy shoreline, each a luxe mix of linen-swathed beds, brass fixtures and white-on-white bathrooms.
As well as authentic experiences such as watching the ‘seaweed mamas’ gather their catch and morning yoga on a sandbank, visits to Stone Town and afternoons drifting the seas on a dhow, LUX* Marijani has a creative dining scene that is particularly tantalising, from spiced coconut curries to papaya salads, Arabian mezze feasts to the hotel’s own ice cream, there’s a flavour to suit each mealtime on this sensory tropical island.
“Full of breezy Swahili charm and Arab influences, LUX* Marijana sits beachside on Zanzibar’s peaceful northeast coast”
BEST FOR
LUX* Marijana is the perfect place to re-energise after an East African safari, and would make a wonderful honeymoon finale. Equally the roomy, interconnecting family suites mean children are very much welcome too.
ISLAND DREAMS
Soneva Secret, Maldives
Under wraps for over thirty years, the latest project from Soneva is set to be the last word in exclusive luxury, amid the startlingly beautiful tropical scenery of Dhipparufushi, a remote island on the westernmost tip of the Maldives, 75 minutes from Malé international airport. With just 14 villas crafted in Soneva’s habitual driftwood-luxe style, the new resort will also be home to the Maldives’ first luxury floating villa as well as overwater and island residences.
What will set Soneva Secret apart from other nearby resorts is its uniquely personalised service with each villa coming with two ‘barefoot’ assistants and a private chef. This means your days and meals can be tailored precisely to your every whim with dishes conjured up from a wide range of tastes and cuisines including Japanese, Nordic, Korean and Italian. You may choose to dine at home, in the Main House visiting the ice cream, cheese or chocolate parlour or perhaps enjoy a memorable meal atop the castaway dining tower.
“The latest outpost from revered eco-pioneers Soneva, this secluded paradise isle announces the next chapter in unique and ultra-personalised Maldivian luxury"
BEST FOR
Those seeking a highly attuned and exclusive experience, and those that like to be first through the doors of the next big thing.
SERENE SECLUSION
Kayaam House, Tangalle, Sri Lanka
Contemporary design, impeccable style and tropical surrounds characterise this new property in Tangalle, just steps from the Indian Ocean on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast. Inspired by Sri Lanka’s legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa, Kayaam is a modern take on Sri Lankan style – you’ll be greeted by a tropical luxe ambience that will perfectly accompany your holiday on the teardrop isle.
Kayaam defines itself as a ‘beach house’, which reflects its easy-going atmosphere and slow-pace, meaning your stay here is relaxed, allowing you to connect to your environment. Made up of a mix of spacious suites and rooms, scattered around the palm tree-dotted garden, Kayaam also has a gorgeous t-shaped infinity pool and a dining room serving a high standard of chef prepared meals, beautifully presented. Kayaam also focusses on wellness, with a yoga pavilion, tailored menus and spa packages which work towards detox and healing through Ayurvedic practices.
“This stylishly designed sanctuary sits on a beautiful, tropical beach on Tangalle where relaxation is the order of the day”
BEST FOR
We think serene Kayaam suits a couple’s holiday or honeymoon perfectly, especially those who like easy access to the ocean. And its emphasis on wellness means it makes an idea spa break with friends or on a solo trip.
The review
Six Senses Zighy Bay
Luxe enclave Zighy Bay is set in Oman’s Musandam Peninsula, one of Six Senses’ most striking properties.
Booking with Bailey Robinson means access to the finest travel experiences. When planning your holiday we do all the hard work – in-depth research and meticulous organisation. You can be confident in the individual care for your holiday from your dedicated and experienced Personal Travel Designer and Concierge.
The review
La Fiermontina, Tangier
The collection
Grab a Slice of Winter Sun
