Because the supersonic Concorde airliner touched down from its ultimate flight 20 years in the past, Kiwi Assortment launched into the journey sphere. Created for individuals who care the place they keep, our expertly curated suggestions started with a easy web site and a hardcover espresso desk ebook showcasing 493 of probably the most distinctive resorts within the Americas. Different books, continents and internet iterations adopted, to embody the almost 2,000 resorts throughout 130 nations we characteristic right now. Then and now, we search out particular locations that stand out and stick with you lengthy after a keep is thru. Our enduring intention is to information vacationers to actually memorable experiences, whether or not that be a seven-course meal you may’t cease speaking about or a sundown view that leaves you speechless. Sharing 20 of our personal unforgettable stays looks as if the appropriate solution to kick off our anniversary celebrations. Circling the globe, beginning nearest our headquarters in Vancouver, Canada, Kiwi Assortment staff members and collaborators journey again in time to recall their best escapes.
Wickaninnish Inn, Canada
“Crashing waves, historical rainforests, ocean views, heated rest room flooring and bear encounters—these are the highlights of my dreamy 2010 keep on the Wickaninnish Inn. Located on Canada’s wild Pacific Coast, the beachfront inn is a full immersion into the infinite great thing about Clayoquot Sound. The architectural particulars, akin to cedar wooden, pure stone and huge home windows, emphasize the pure environment. Savoring high quality delicacies on the Pointe Restaurant whereas waves splashed the home windows was an unforgettable expertise. My husband and I spent our time exploring seashores, climbing within the Pacific Rim Nationwide Park and discovering Tofino’s meals scene and Indigenous artwork. This slice of the West Coast is pure magic.” — Julia Kaplun, Design + Model Lead
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Canada
“Overlooking Lake Louise’s turquoise waters, the Fairmont Chateau gives an solely non-public escape for these wanting to soak up the staggering pure magnificence. This previous summer season, I had a tremendous expertise kayaking the glacial waters and exploring the encircling climbing trails. Waking as much as probably the most beautiful view and having fun with personalised service within the eating places was the spotlight of my journey. To prime it off, I closed out my go to with their well-known Excessive Tea, which is unquestionably value all of the hype it will get.” — Dabira Chhabra, Account Supervisor, Lodge Applications
Bishop’s Lodge, United States
“There’s one thing about New Mexico that continues to name me again, and my 2021 keep at Bishop’s Lodge in Santa Fe is but one more reason I’ll be returning to this Southwestern metropolis. Sitting on 317 acres within the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, Bishop’s Lodge is a sprawling resort steeped in 150 years of historical past. Whereas the lodge’s new possession has expanded and modernized fantastically, the unique lodge was fastidiously restored and the chapel relationship again to 1860 is now listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations. Between the peaceable services, charming adobe structure and actions on supply, together with the artwork class I took, it’s straightforward to seek out the right combination of pleasure and R&R right here.” — Michelle Halpern, Passport contributor
Chablé Yucatan, Mexico
“Immersed within the Mayan jungle a couple of minutes from Mérida, former sisal-producing hacienda Chablé Yucatan gives a window to the previous and current. Throughout my keep in 2018, I used to be reminded of the historical past this place has witnessed all through the years. That includes the works of native artisans and surrounded by nature, my villa with a non-public pool was breathtakingly secluded and fashionable. The Mayan cultural heritage and mystical traditions are current all through the expertise, as Chablé options its personal cenote, genuine Yucatan gastronomy and one of many largest collections of tequilas.” — Karina Fuentes, Account Supervisor, Lodge Applications
Paradero Todos Santos, Mexico
“The place the grime highway ends, there rests Paradero Todos Santos, about an hour north of Cabo. My two nights right here in October 2023 mark probably the most memorable stays to this point in my yr of exploring Mexico. The sunbaked, architectural-forward lodge blends seamlessly into Baja California’s panorama. My feeling all through the keep was an intriguing sense of place. From chilaquiles drenched in fire-roasted chile verde to grounding moments throughout a sound tub, every part that Baja is intertwines. What an unimaginable alternative to expertise this huge terrain within the palms of Paradero.” — Jessica Wright, Passport contributor
Rancho Santana, Nicaragua
“Like most magical and distant corners of the world, there isn’t a splashy advertising slogan beckoning vacationers to expertise the fun of Nicaragua. As a substitute, there’s a whisper marketing campaign amongst these within the know, the gradual vacationers who recognize the authenticity of such a spot. The place verdant jungle and tropical forests border sparkly emerald coasts lives Rancho Santana. Nestled on the finish of a mud highway and surrounded by dusky-pink hued seashores, the resort, which I visited in 2022, boasts surf breaks galore, horse stables, a vegetable backyard servicing your complete property and a breezy yoga pavilion and spa with views out to sea. Days might be full of actions and exploration however I discovered a nap within the shade is equally not possible to withstand.” — Amanda Blakley, Passport contributor
Casa San Agustin, Colombia
“Passing by the historic concrete partitions of Cartagena in 2017, I felt instantly transported to the previous. A way of calm and rest set in after stepping foot into Casa San Agustin, a dramatic distinction from the frenetic fortified metropolis streets on its doorstep. The courtyard pool, that includes an historical Spanish aqueduct, supplied refuge from the recent Colombian solar. Lavish cocktails and desserts at Alma, one in every of Cartegena’s best eating places, helped me recount the times’ actions earlier than retreating to my room of handcrafted furnishings and uncovered timber framing. The intimate colonial-style lodge made a implausible homebase for exploring this colourful coastal metropolis.” — Brent Arentsen, Director, Distribution
explora Patagonia, Chile
“In a area of grand glaciers, towering mountains and turquoise lakes, explora Patagonia was the right platform for experiencing such an unimaginable a part of the world. Perched by Lake Pehoé, the quiet, architectural property is embedded in Chile’s jaw-dropping Torres del Paine Nationwide Park. There in 2015, I might plot the following day’s adventures—be it a full-day hike as much as the enduring three towers or a day horseback trip throughout the pampa with a gaucho—while sipping on a refreshing Pisco Bitter. They maintain all the particulars so company can merely absorb the pure surprise.” — Pleasure Pecknold, Passport Editor
explora Rapa Nui, Chile
“Distant and remoted Rapa Nui is likely one of the most distinctive, uncommon locations my spouse and I’ve visited. On daily basis we had been there in 2016, we launched into excursions with explora Rapa Nui guides, together with visiting the famed moai and climbing across the island. We climbed into underground caverns the place households had slept at night time centuries in the past, ate uncooked sea urchin on the seaside and watched the waves crash from a cliffside cave. After our outings, we returned to the lodge to feast on native delicacies with Chilean wine earlier than falling into mattress with ocean views in sight.” — Dana Hangai, Vice President, Merchandise and Partnerships
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Vietnam
“Positioned within the coronary heart of town, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is a chic mix of historic attraction and up to date luxurious. Visiting right here again in 2015, I felt privileged to remain at such a famend, historic lodge, the place each nook felt like a journey by time. The sheer pleasure of cooling off of their gorgeous pool on the balmiest days made me really feel like a film star. Whereas the meals total was excellent, the breakfast brunch stays a private favourite. I nonetheless discover myself dreaming about their chocolate cake, which one of many cooks insisted I strive. The mixture of non-public touches, coupled with impeccable service, luxurious lodging and a central location, makes for a unprecedented and unforgettable retreat.” — Nancy Smith, Luxurious Lodge Specialist
Soneva Kiri, Thailand
“Nestled in a tranquil bay on one in every of Thailand’s largest however least developed islands, Soneva Kiri is the definition of jaw-dropping. The dramatic arrival by non-public Cessna aircraft and heat welcome from my Barefoot Guardian set the scene for an unforgettable 2022 keep. I’ll always remember snorkeling with cuttlefish, swimming beneath the Khlong Chao Waterfall and bouncing across the expansive property by myself electrical buggy. The culinary ideas—deeply conventional Thai, a Japanese-Peruvian 10-course tasting menu, a charcuterie room in a round glass vault—had been the cherry on prime.” — Nicole Havers, Advertising Content material Supervisor
Mandarin Oriental, Singapore
“Again in 2006, Kiwi Assortment was printing our espresso desk ebook, In a single day Sensations, in Singapore for the primary time. Coincidentally, it was additionally my first time in Singapore and I got here to grasp why it’s referred to as The Backyard Metropolis. I stayed on the Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, which is ideally situated for exploring the downtown core by foot. Every day, we’d journey to the north of the island, nearly on the border crossing to Malaysia, to be on the printer for every press verify. The Mandarin Oriental supplied the right oasis after a busy day of journey throughout the island.” — Brian Mumby, Co-Founder and President
Armani Lodge Dubai, United Arab Emirates
“A number of resorts speak about service, however Armani Lodge Dubai takes it to the following stage. Strolling into its iconic Dubai constructing in 2016, my baggage had been rapidly whisked away. Every morning, by completely different individuals, I used to be greeted within the restaurant by title and, with my order from the day prior to this famous, I’d be requested if I wish to have that once more. Espresso is served on silver trays with sweets and dinner comes with a present of The Dubai Fountain spouting off. Rooms are unmistakably Armani, as seen within the excessive stage of element and intentionality of each design ingredient. Fragranced in a scent signature to the lodge and full-size, the toilet amenity equipment got here house with me.” — Cynthia Verboon, Vice President, Lodge Applications
FORESTIS, Italy
“The great thing about FORESTIS lies in its simplicity. The rooms and shared areas are minimalist, accented solely with pure wooden parts and Dolomite stone, letting the astonishing mountain vary take centerstage. There in Ocotober 2023, my buddy and I spent our days strolling by the forest, indulging within the expansive spa, partaking in Wyda yoga classes, sampling the beautiful Forest Delicacies menu and gazing out at uninterrupted views of the majestic peaks. Each facet of the lodge seeks to be in concord with its pure environment, providing the right setting for complete rest.” — Olivia Betts, Digital Advertising Coordinator
Lodge Savoy, Italy
“The standout options of my 2017 keep at Florence’s Lodge Savoy was undoubtedly the unbeatable location and distinctive service. The employees went above and past in making a welcoming ambiance, from realizing my title to following up on my day by day explorations across the metropolis. Slightly than conforming to a set mould, every staff member let their distinctive persona shine, making interactions extra heat, private and satisfying. The trendy design and well-appointed rooms then supplied the icing on prime.” — Michelle O’Neil, Luxurious Lodge Specialist
Hôtel Barrière Le Fouquet’s Paris, France
“My household journey to Hôtel Barrière Le Fouquet’s Paris in 2022 was a fairytale from begin to end. The personalised touches made for an unforgettable journey. Balloons and a particular lodge package deal for my daughter showcased the property’s consideration to element and made her really feel like a princess. For my coffee-loving mother, the personalized cappuccinos had been a spotlight—she nonetheless raves about them as the perfect she’s ever had. The employees’s dedication to creating us really feel particular at each flip, mixed with the central location, luxurious spa and distinctive eating, created an ideal Parisian retreat that exceeded all expectations.” — Diana Danicico, Luxurious Lodge Specialist
Finca Cortesin, Spain
“Drawn to this nook of Spain’s gorgeous Costa del Sol for a detailed buddy’s marriage ceremony in 2015, Finca Cortesin didn’t disappoint. When my household and I arrived, we had been greeted by the lodge supervisor and upgraded to the Cortesin Suite, a palatial pad with an ensuite bed room at every finish, a butler’s kitchen and opulent lounge within the center. Each morning and night, we reveled within the spectacular views of the pool and verdant resort our luxurious suite afforded us.” — Anna Cort, World Director, Lodge Applications
Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal
“A panoramic resort in one in every of Portugal’s famous wine areas, Six Senses Douro Valley is ready amongst vineyards and alongside the Douro River. Throughout my 2017 keep, a spotlight was the spa, the place they use domestically sourced substances in all therapies, consistent with their dedication to sustainability. The lodge additionally gives a variety of wellness packages. Given they’re situated in a famed culinary vacation spot, it’s no shock that their very own choices centered on regional flavors had been a number of the finest I’d skilled in all of Portugal. The resort’s concierge is extraordinarily educated and organized a number of the most unusual, small winery wine tastings, together with stomping our personal grapes for Port wine. I might say this resort is the right retreat for foodies, nature lovers, wine lovers or all of the above.” — Carla Drake, Vice President, Concierge
The Oberoi, Marrakech, Morocco
“For our tenth marriage ceremony anniversary in June 2023, my husband booked us a shock keep at The Oberoi, Marrakech. The lodge’s gorgeous design is an oasis of calm, with our room’s non-public pool providing an particularly tranquil retreat. On arrival, we had been delighted to seek out muffins and Champagne ready for us. What resonated most with me was the distinctive, attentive-yet-unassuming service. We felt past spoiled all through our keep. The meals was unimaginable, notably the breakfast, as was the setting—the magnificent structure seamlessly blends Moroccan heritage with luxurious.” — Federica Lorijn-Antonioli, World Director, Lodge Applications
Singita Lebombo Lodge, South Africa
“Suspended aloft the N’wanetsi River in Kruger Nationwide Park, Singita Lebombo Lodge is impressed by eagles’ nests constructed into the cliff face—floating between river and sky. From the second my husband and I arrived in 2012, it felt like we had been additionally in a state of levitation. It didn’t take lengthy to identify the “Massive 5,” however it was the moments of connection that actually resonated, akin to an injured but stoic male lion hauntingly calling to his sister (who finally emerged) and searching into the eyes of a leopard whose purr was audible. Again on the lodge, immersive areas and intuitive consideration to element maintained our dream-like expertise. Singita is the Shangaan phrase for “place of miracles,” and this keep was nothing in need of extraordinary.” — Brooke Van Hatten, Vice President, Advertising
