Cleo Anderson is busy as always. The founder of The Anderson Media Group was recently declared the ‘Broadcast Media Host and Producer of the Year’ in the Influential Businesswoman Awards 2023, just as she wrapped up filming in St Barth – the latest location for her show on LUXE.TV, Wanderluxe with Cleo Anderson.

And she is not done. Her multiple roles as travel expert, PR guru, TV host and producer mean that she has to constantly be on the move in search of some of the most glamorous yet hidden locations in the world for her clients. Some of which are/have been Monte Carlo SBM; the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Ms Anderson is the ‘Luxury Travel Curator of the Everyone Wins Goodie Bag’ dished out to the top 25 Oscar nominees each year), and now, LUXE.TV.

We caught up with Cleo in between her travels to talk about her work and views on luxury travel, amongst other things.

In Conversation with Cleo Anderson begins now …

ALM: Why have you declared St Barth the ‘world’s most luxurious island?’

CA: St Barth is such an iconic location and has a long history of attracting those who love laid-back chic as well as the jet set – it really is a jewel of the French Caribbean. The island is lush with nature and beautiful beaches, but you also have fantastic shopping in Gustavia and some really wonderful iconic landmarks in terms of eating out and places to stay.

In the show (Wanderluxe with Cleo Anderson) we featured three stunning villas courtesy of Saint-Barth Paradise. I enjoyed dinner and drinks at Eden Rock, and I spent some amazing hours on some of the landmark beaches. Filming there really was a fantastic experience and I will no doubt visit again soon.

ALM: What, in your opinion, do you think luxury hospitality brands get wrong about what the 1% need in a vacation spot?

CA: I think the thing most people get wrong is what great customer service and attention to detail really is, because, for me, there are most definitely levels to it.

Often in hospitality, people think they are giving personal service by being polite – perhaps remembering your name – but they are not really seeing you or listening in any meaningful way. For me, what makes the difference is not just noticing a client or being polite, but actually acting on what you have noticed in a significant way.

One example of great customer service was during a recent visit to the Four Seasons Sultanahmet in Istanbul. I really couldn’t decide between sorbet or chocolate for dessert during a meal. I chose the sorbet and after I finished my meal, I realised that I was still craving chocolate. I playfully lamented my decision to my wonderfully attentive server and, to my surprise, he returned with a couple of pieces of gourmet chocolate – on the house. It is these personalised touches that truly make an experience special and memorable, and making a client feel seen where many servers would have simply sympathised politely and brought me my bill. That feeling of really feeling ‘seen’ and catered to is what I think the 1% is looking for.

ALM: What are some emerging trends in luxury travel that should be talked about more?

CA: Obviously artificial intelligence (AI) is a big conversation right now: in terms of luxury travel, that equates to more detailed hotel booking where you can customise room size and check-in times, for example. Face recognition and voice recognition at airports for added security will become more prevalent, I believe. I also feel that luxury trains will become more popular – this is something that I’m really interested in, and I’m currently planning a couple of epic train trips in both Europe and North America. I’m looking forward to these unique experiences.

ALM: What, so far, are your favourite vacation spots and why?

CA: Athens is a favourite — I really enjoy places that have a sense of history to immerse myself in, and Athens has historical landmarks that you can see from almost every vantage point in the city. Juxtaposed with that you have the Athens Riviera. It’s very close to the city centre but is also a stunning beach destination that many don’t really know about.

I loved Miami, it has a South American vibe in terms of the music, food, colours, and beautiful weather. It is a really fun spot to go to with a group of friends.

Borneo was a wonderful destination to explore, as I am big on nature and wildlife. Tracking in the rainforest and searching for Orangutans was really beautiful.

The Maldives is another favourite spot. I love being surrounded by water, and the colour of the Indian Ocean is magnificent. I loved being in an overwater bungalow: at night you can feel the bungalow swaying in the water. Being there feels decadent [because] you have space and time to deeply relax.

ALM: What are some vacation spots that are best visited alone in your opinion? Which ones are best visited in company with others?

CA: For me, when it comes to city breaks I actually enjoy doing them alone. You can do your own thing and discover museums and hidden gems on foot and at your own pace. Athens, Barcelona, Lisbon and Rome are all great for getaways like that. Then the party places, like Miami and Tokyo, are wonderful to do with company as your senses are heightened and there are just so many things to do.

ALM: What unusual luxury spots have you been to?

CA: Cappadocia in Turkey. The terrain is so unique and special and the hotel was a cave-like haven with views of hot air balloons floating up into the sky in the mornings.

ALM: What do you look out for when searching for a place to stay?

If I can get an iconic view that reflects the place I am in, that’s always a plus. If that is not a possibility, I love an elegant room. I usually like a mixture of contemporary and traditional furnishings and gorgeous interior design. Customer service is also really important to me, and I will always look at the reviews to see how other travellers have been treated by staff.

ALM: What are some challenges you’ve faced in your travels? What did you do about them?

CA: I have to be honest – my travel experiences are typically great. I did, however, face a challenge with retrieving luggage when I arrived in St Barth’s earlier this year and it was the first time I have ever lost my luggage! Thankfully, the staff at the hotel where I was staying went above and beyond to track my luggage down and ensured that I received it a day later. There had been an issue at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris.

ALM: According to the news, you’ve put together unique travel destinations for top Oscar nominees. What do you look out for when making these selections?

CA: I’m definitely looking for something glamorous and unique. We have worked with lighthouses that have been transformed into hotels, for example, and we definitely have the glamour factor this coming year with a selection of high-end luxury villas in St Barth. I also tend to look at locations; what are the locations that perhaps Oscar nominees might want to visit? This year, aside from St Barth, we have also been looking at Sri Lanka and Berlin.

This past year we had a client with an ultra-modern compound in the middle of nowhere (in Dunrobin, Canada), which was a fantastic addition to the gift bag.

ALM: What is the one thing/principle you’ve applied over and over again that has helped to keep you successful in your line of work?

CA: Remaining positive and expecting good things. The power of positive expectation is key. I believe in asking for what you want and expecting that you will attract the right people to help you with that mission. Resilience is a must in business too: you will always find blocks in the road, but it’s about pushing past them and finding another way.

ALM: What would you like to see more in Africa to make it a top travel destination?

CA: I think that more unique luxury hotels in unique places that showcase the beauty that Africa has would be fantastic.

ALM: What do you think non-Africans need to experience here on the continent to make Africa a top travel destination?

I think that non-Africans have to be made more aware of the beautiful things to see throughout Africa, and the experiences that maybe they are not yet aware of. African countries that have got this really right in terms of branding are Kenya, with their safari experiences; Namibia, with its stunning desert; and, Egypt with its obviously iconic pyramids. Ensuring that other African spots showcase what they have may come from a more focused PR and marketing push, for example, with the visuals being at the centre of everything. With social media tools like Instagram, everything is more visual these days and people can’t be aware of something they know nothing about. More awareness of what to see and do would be great.

‘In Conversation with’ by ASPIRE Luxury Magazine celebrates stars, influencers, celebrities and public figures, shining a spotlight on their lives and the incredible stories they have to share.

The post In Conversation with Cleo Anderson, Luxury Travel Expert and Founder, The Anderson Media Group first appeared on Aspire Luxury Magazine.

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Qatar away from the World Cup 2022

The truth is that Qatar has always been a prime luxury destination even though it hardly ever tops the list. The World Cup may change this, but even if the games do not take you there this year, the Middle Eastern country should be on your list when you’re considering a trip to that region.

What to do in Qatar

Of course, because it is a desert country, the first activity that comes to mind is a desert safari. This is great – if you’ve never taken one before or you absolutely love it and want the experience in a new country. So yes, a desert safari is definitely something to do in Qatar, but it is not the only activity you can indulge in on your trip.

There is the option of visiting the National Museum of Qatar, an attraction that is not only interesting for the cultural story it tells but for its architecture which was designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel to mimic the naturally occurring crystal formations known as the desert rose.

For an even deeper cultural experience, visit Katara Cultural Village, home to the Katara Mosque designed by (arguably) the first female architect to specialise in mosques; a Greek-styled amphitheatre and the Qatar Museums Gallery. Here, you can also shop at the Galeries Lafayette – the iconic French department store – spend a day at the beach or have a taste of Qatari food via the many eateries and ‘cabins’ on Tasty street.

Other activities to partake in include kayaking in the Mangroves of Al Thakira; playing a range of sports via high-tech installations at the newly-opened 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum and visiting the Souq Waqif, the ‘Standing Market’ that gives you a feel of ancient Qatar.

Where to stay in Qatar

Qatar, like Dubai, has more than enough luxury accommodations to ensure that your stay is as comfortable as you would like.

From the Mandarin Oriental Doha with its two rooftop pools and nine restaurants and bars to the Ritz-Carlton Sharq Village whose proximity to the sheikh’s palace confers upon it an additional luxe appeal; the Mondrian Doha famous for its top-notch service and opulent offerings, and, the Zulal Wellness Retreat perfect for unwinding and detoxing either alone or with a group, there is no end to the comfortable and lavish lodgings you can retire to after a busy day exploring Qatar’s top attractions.

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Evrima is the name of the first 623-foot cruise liner in the collection that is set to sail this August with paid passengers over the Mediterranean. Two bigger superyachts, Ilma and Luminara, are scheduled to join the collection in 2024 and 2025 respectively.

Should you be considering a different kind of experience aboard the Evrima, here’s what to expect

1. Large, airy rooms with lavish interiors.

There are a total of 149 rooms that can take up to 298 guests. Each of them has been outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings and private balconies making the big rooms appear even larger. Several loft suites offering two stories of space are also available, but if you’re a family or a large group, you can choose to have neighbouring suites combined for a bigger accommodation.

2. Privacy.

Don’t be afraid to create your own kind of fun in the safety of your room. RItz-Carlton says the walls of the rooms on the Evrima are soundproof, so 100% privacy is assured.

3. Luxurious lodgings.

It’s the Ritz-Carlton after all, so expecting anything less is nothing short of scandalous.

Regulars will find that the brand’s signature king-size beds, double-vanity bathrooms and high-thread-count linens, among other comforts, are all present on the Evrima.

4. Intimate onshore excursions and tours.

You did not think you would just be sailing all over the world, drinking rich wines out of exquisitely-crafted glasses at all-night parties now, did you?

Most voyages will range from 7 to 10 days and, depending on the season, Evrima will visit the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Central America and South America. Destinations along the way will vary from Spain’s Balearic Islands to the French Riviera, the Costa Rican coastlines, Mykonos, Saint-Tropez, St. Barts and more.

At each destination, you’ll be able to partake in intimate group tours from the hotel’s elevated Shore Collection. Experiences include truffle hunting in Croatia, exclusive tours of the Picasso Museum in Barcelona, and exploring the glamour of the French Riviera in a vintage car.

Of course, if you’d rather explore independently, the “Concierge Ashore” team can assist with lining up private experiences or bespoke events by working with local guides to create a more immersive, personalized journey.

5. Exclusive onboard experiences.

Ritz-Carlton has worked hard to ensure that there will be no dull moment on your trip. You would be able to indulge in deliciously decadent dishes on the yacht’s signature restaurant, S.E.A, led by acclaimed chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, a three-star Michelin restaurant at the Ritz Carlton, Wolfsburg.

Looking to relax and rejuvenate on your journey? Try the carefully curated ESPA spa treatments available.

In terms of pricing, rates for a room may vary depending on your destination. A seven-day Caribbean voyage aboard Evrima starts from $5,100 per person in a double-occupancy suite. Evrima, as well as the yet-to-debut Ilma and Luminara, will all be available for private charters.

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Here’s a chance to experience Mykonos island in a whole new way, if you’ve ever been. And if you haven’t, well, the Cali Mykonos is scheduled to open in July, and this year is as good a time as any to pay a visit to the Mediterranean country.

Cali Mykonos is not just another luxury property promising Instagrammable vacation spots and new culinary delights. The luxury boutique hotel, inspired by the Greek mythology muse Calliope (befittingly the goddess of music and dance), features 40 suites and villas that are outfitted with a private pool and deck overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Conceived by Athens-based architectural firm STFN Labs, the sleek accommodations combine traditional Cycladic influences with the natural features of the landscape. Whitewashed walls, a variety of marble and stone, and flat rooftops covered in vibrant vegetation help blend each of the buildings with the environment, while bespoke, locally made furniture elevates the contemporary interiors.

One of the most impressive accommodations of the hillside resort is the Cali Villa, perched at the top of the property. The three-level residence has five pools — one for each bedroom — a private elevator, and wraparound terraces with jaw-dropping 360-degree views.

Of course, a luxe hotel is incomplete without good food and drinks, which is why Cali Mykonos has recruited one of Greece’s most notable chefs, Lefteris Lazarou, to serve traditional Greek cuisine with the freshest, locally sourced seafood and ingredients. Guests can however choose to go for a private al fresco dinner in their villa while taking in the gorgeous sunset views.

Other amenities include a Pilates studio, yoga classes, a private beach, a spa with steam, ice and salt rooms, as well as a saltwater infinity pool of Olympic proportions — at 427 feet.

“We wanted to create an escape where guests can experience life somewhere else, with the charm of culture and tradition, conscious of a sustainable future,” explains Othon Mourkakos, founder of Cali Mykonos, in a press release. “Each decision, from materials to methods to team members, is made with this goal in mind. We look forward to welcoming guests into our home and sharing Cali’s Mykonian summer.”

If the hotel’s offerings are in tune with the kind of vacation you have in mind, you can consider making a reservation here. Rates start at $1500.

Source: Travel + Leisure

The post Cali Mykonos is a New Luxury Greek Hotel with Private Pools for Each Residence first appeared on Aspire Luxury Magazine.

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Infinity des Lumières

While the world is beginning to take the concept of metaverse seriously, with Facebook announcing plans to change its name to reflect this idea, Dubai wants to give us a physical representation of this virtual world with its Infinity des Lumières digital art centre.

Infinity des Lumières is an inspiring multi-layered cultural space, hosting the finest and most captivating digital art exhibitions while engaging the public through fascinating immersive content. It occupies an impressive 2,700sqm space within the Dubai Mall and boasts 130 projectors, 58 speakers and 3,000 HD images that are bound to transport viewers into a new reality dominated by art.

The art experience starts from the entrance where guests go through an immersive digital facade with 379  screens spread across 200sqm. It continues into the first exhibition – which currently is a light, sound and visual presentation of Van Gogh’s works – and reaches a crescendo in the second exhibition, an artistic representation of 19^th century Japan dubbed Dreamed Japan, Images of a Floating World. The third exhibition, Verse by Thomas Vanz – a hypnotic, metaphysical show of whirling images of the cosmos accompanied by an orchestral piece composed with Jonathan Fitas – brings the experience to a satisfying end.

Visitors also have the opportunity to continue the art adventure at the Infinity des Lumières boutique where they can purchase works from local and international artists. The exhibitions last one hour fifteen minutes and would be changed every ten months.

Aura Skypool

If you’re looking to conquer man-made heights, Dubai is certainly the place to go. With some of the world’s tallest buildings scattered all over the emirate, it is clearly not resting on its laurels as it gears up to launch Aura, the first and highest 360-degree infinity pool.

Set to open in Mid-November, Aura sits on the 50th floor of The Palm Tower and guests will enjoy breath-taking 360-degree, uninterrupted views of the main Dubai landmarks including Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa and Ain Dubai.

But Aura offers you more than just a massive pool with beautiful views. It is divided into two distinct yet complementary spaces – the Pool Deck and the Lounge & Bar. At the latter, guests can enjoy a menu inspired by the cosmopolitan yet easy-going vibe of iconic Asian cities. Carefully constructed by Head Chef Craig Best, dishes include Aura Sticky Confit Duck Salad, Glazed Miso Salmon, Loaded Grilled Cauliflower and cooling desserts such as Marinated Pineapple Sundae.

Aura will be open daily from 10 am to sunset. With three ticketing time slots available, guests can choose their perfect Aura experience – whether it’s a laid-back morning by the pool, an afternoon sunset session, or a full day taking in all that the cutting-edge concept has to offer.

The post Things to do when in Dubai: Visit Infinity des Lumières Art Centre and Aura SkyPool first appeared on Aspire Luxury Magazine.

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Located conveniently in Motorworld Stuttgart, Germany, the V8 hotel can be described as the ultimate haven for anyone who loves cars. From its lobby to the rooms to the special experiences it offers, your entire stay will be a whirlwind of twists and turns through the exhilarating auto world.

What makes this hotel even more exciting are its 26 car-themed rooms featuring furniture and beds made from actual car parts.

Are you a BMW super fan? The V8 hotel has a room with a bed made from a BMW E36. Off-road cars more your thing? A jeep Wrangler themed room has been put together just for you. Or maybe you’re pro-Mercedes and would not mind splurging on anything related to this brand. You’re in luck, because the V12 Mercedes suite, occupying four floors and featuring “modern high-quality equipment with original scenes from the automotive history” was definitely designed with you in mind.

And there’s more! Because you would be staying in Stuttgart, you also have access to tours at the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche museums. If you want to take your experience further, you can sign up for the hotel’s Drive It experience and take either a Mercedes-AMG C 63 S, Tesla Model X, or a Porsche 911 Turbo for a wild or leisurely spin – whatever suits your preferences.

If you are more fascinated with planes, guess what? The hotel has something for you! There is a Vintage Airfield themed room, as well as a flight simulator program you can participate in. The program will allow you a one-hour cockpit flight in simINN flight simulator aboard a Boeing 737 or a Cessna 172.

Admittedly, not everyone is as car crazy as you are, and if you are going to be travelling with someone who has a different interest, checking them into the same auto-themed room may be overkill. Thankfully, the V8 Hotel also offers standard, no-car themed rooms so that you can go all out without making your partner uncomfortable.

Have any plans to book any of the themed rooms this summer? Don’t bother: all of them, except the deluxe V12 Mercedes Suite, is fully booked until October/November. Each V8 hotel car-themed room costs €184 ($216) per night, while the more luxurious V12 Mercedes Suite costs €655 ($770) per night.

Source: Carbuzz

The post This Hotel is a Car Lover’s Paradise first appeared on Aspire Luxury Magazine.

The post This Hotel is a Car Lover’s Paradise appeared first on Aspire Luxury Magazine.

Whether you are going solo, as a family or a group, these 5 African countries should be on your radar if you are planning to take a vacation soon

Botswana

This south African country is fast becoming a top safari destination that prides itself on offering luxury experiences for travellers: on the 19^th of May, 2021, Evolve Back launched their first-ever international property in Central Kalahari, citing “a stable democracy and the highest per capita income in Africa” as part of their reasons for choosing Botswana.

In addition to the newly-launched Evolve Back Gham Dhao Lodge, you can also check out Jao Camp in the heart of Okavango Delta.

The camp features two exclusive villas and five suites equipped with private plunge pools, lounge, dining areas and en-suite bathrooms. Travellers also get exclusive access to Africa’s best wildlife areas.

Rates start from $13 195 per villa for up to four guests.

Kenya

Another leading safari destination, Kenya is famous for its Indian Ocean coastline, lakelands, the Great Rift Valley, mountain highlands and wildlife. One of the reasons why many people plan a holiday to Kenya is to see Giraffe Manor‘s herd of resident Rothschild giraffe, one of the most endangered giraffe species in the world.

Located within almost 57 hectares of indigenous forest in the Langata suburb of Nairobi, the exclusive hotel accommodates 25 guests. Start your day with breakfast with the giraffes or take a leisurely walk to the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife Giraffe Centre in the company of these friendly animals.

Rates start from $875 per adult sharing.

Zanzibar

Zanzibar is the place for those who want to immerse themselves in bespoke experiences. Travellers can soak up the ocean views from an all-inclusive resort, indulge in tantalising cuisine or explore the markets. If extravagance is what you seek, visit The Residence Zanzibar, a five-star property cocooned among 32ha of tropical gardens.

Besides taking a sunset stroll on the 1.6km stretch of beach, guests can learn about the rare red colobus monkey, explore a spice plantation or spend afternoons at the spa.

Rates start from $1 234 a night per villa.

Mauritius

While Mauritius remains a budget-friendly destination for travellers, visitors can enjoy a plethora of exclusive experiences that showcase its beaches, reefs and lagoons. Luxury travellers will appreciate Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa in Saint Felix.

The five-star property was voted Mauritius’s Leading Boutique Hotel at the World Travel Awards for 2020 and 2019.

The Shanti Villa sleeps 10 people and is among its top accommodation offerings. Spanning more than 1000m², the Shanti Villa boasts a 140m² temperature-controlled private swimming pool built with jacuzzi beds, a wrap-around balcony, kitchen, and a butler.

Rates start from €1 943 a night.

Egypt

Travel back in time to Egypt’s ancient temples and pyramids, enjoying the sights and sounds through a cruise along the Nile River.

The Oberoi Philae, dubbed one of the most luxurious cruises on the Nile, boasts all-day fine dining, a movie theatre, dance floor, fitness centre, spa and a unisex beauty salon.

The spacious accommodation comes in cabins, suites and suites with a terrace, each offering all the mod-cons needs for smooth sailing. Cruises offered are from four to seven nights.

Rates for the four-night cruise starts from €675 a room a night.

Morocco

Morocco is known for its grand beaches, sweeping views of the desert and distinct architecture.

Spend a night or two at The Grand Riad, The Royal Mansour in Marrakech. Among the amenities included are a central patio with a retractable roof, Moroccan lounge, a private hammam, fitness room, office and library, games room, three bedrooms and an outdoor shower.

Rates are available upon request. However, CEOWORLD Magazine reported last year that rates start from $43 000 a night.

Source: IOL

The post ASPIRE Pick of the Week: 5 African Luxury Summer Destinations first appeared on Aspire Luxury Magazine.

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