Back at sea level, in the mystical region of Rajasthan, India, a most unique experience awaits the culture junkie. Originally built in the 18th century as the palace of Maharana Jagat Singh II of the royal dynasty of Mewar, the Taj Lake Palace effortlessly “floats” atop Lake Pichola, creating stunning 360° views. By day, the azure waters of the lake play off the palace’s marble façade, and, by night, the palace twinkles and glistens in the moonlit lake-a true sight to behold.
Inside, the elaborate suites (of which there are 18) celebrate all the pomp and circumstance of the great Rajput dynasties-each in its own unique way. The ornate Chandra Prakash suite bears all the marks of its royal past, from the intricately carved fretwork screens to original bohemian chandeliers and frescoed, gilted ceilings. Maharana Sajjan Singhji’s Sajjan Niwas Suite features its original cloth fans, intricate mirror and glass inlay, and a unique four-wall fresco depicting the Hindu deity Krishna.
East Indonesia’s tropical rainforest boasts some of the most diverse plant and animal life in the world, coupled with stunning waterfalls and, of course, miles of untouched beach. One particular island sparked Indonesian-born hotel magnate Adrian Zecha’s imagination. But government conservation efforts meant strict restrictions upon what Zecha could build on the island. His solution was simple: pitch 20 luxury tents. And so Amanwana was born, and has, since then, spawned countless spin-offs (none of which can call the inimitable jungle landscape and sprawling private beaches of Moyo Island home). The wilderness hideaway is only reachable by helicopter, seaplane, or boat, making it all the more attractive for those in search of true privacy.
A tent suite at Amanwana is constructed of nothing more than a soft, waterproof covering, canvas, and a coral stone deck to protect from the elements, and therein lies the adventure. Of course, no luxury is spared in the tent interiors, where spa-style bathrooms and bedrooms complete with plush king-sized beds combine with solid hardwood flooring to appeal to its high-flying clientele. What’s more, an elaborate Jungle Cove Spa, music pavilion, library, and dive center round out the six-star luxuries in this glorified nature camp.
Images of Polynesia and the South Pacific have always found their way into travel magazines and on TV, but it’s not until you travel to this region that you realize the sheer marvel of shallow lagoons and vast expanses of ocean interrupted only by the distant peaks of the Pacific Rim. And what better way to admire these azure lagoons than on your own private island? Le Taha’a Private Island and Spa, located 142 miles west of Tahiti, offers just this in a string of sprawling overwater bungalows and beach villas. Couple this with the extensive Manea Spa, and the result is tropical paradise personified.
This summer will mark the launch of the Royal Suites, the ultimate accommodation at Le Taha’a, and Haute Living was given a private peak. Among the unique offerings in this 3,500 square foot suite are a private pool, private garden, luxury appointments such as island artefacts and antiques set against the ultimate in technology, and a host of exquisite services from daily private spa treatments, champagne, and fresh flowers to a private 24-hour concierge. What’s more, a private Polynesian show will be presented to guests of the two distinguished villas.
So, armed with these five ideas for the ultimate luxury adventure, take some time out of the perils of your high-profile, high-stress life to explore the far corners of that world and create your very own once in a lifetime experience.
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June 21, 2007Detoxifying Miami Beach at Canyon Ranch Living
