THE LUXURY 50 LIST2019
Kivotos Santorini, Greece
A five-star sanctuary with sweeping views of Imerovigli • As opposed to the common, white-washed suites surrounding Santorini, Kivoto embraces the dark, helming interior inspirations from the volcano lava that characterizes the island. Its colours are stark: slabs of stone and the beauty of the dusk, creating a romantic effect with the lighting positioned by the floor. With five suites and two villas, tailor-made pampering has never been more rewarding. Bright green pools are lodged within the two villas that mimics the atmosphere of the underground caves. Lefteris Soultatos replenishes guests with its epicurean offering. www.kivotoshotels.com
Six Senses Maxwell, Singapore
An oriental souvenir from old Chinatown • Tanjong Pagar’s three-storey marvel has a beautiful antiquity to it, perhaps in its earthy brickwork, the cream-coloured accents or the ideal location. The original nutmeg plantation site has been reconstructed to a modern flavour, all credit to Jacques Garcia who adorned the hotel with stone floors, rich damask brocades, and a traditional in-house ice-cream served from a card. The rooms are less spacious, but the furniture is smartly assembled; cabinets resemble those from a yacht, with marble minibars complete with William Yeoward glassware. www.sixsenses.com
Belmond Cadogan Hotel, London
The cradle of Britain’s most astounding celebrities • The arrest of Oscar Wilde stirred news for this hotel, but its modern finishes beckons for more attention. The rooms echo a velvety feel, with paintings and Art Deco ornaments warbling an age-old tune. 400 original artworks adorn its walls, wood panels offer a nice contrast against the red banquettes and armchairs. There’s the taste of true British in the kitchen presided by Chef Adam Handling. Bask into a serving of butter-slathered king crab or a heaping custard filled with miso potatoes. www.belmond.com
BVLGARI Hotel Shanghai
Living la dolce vita in the orient • The 6th of the brand’s namesake hospitality venues finds its way on the banks of Suzhou, as a neoclassical building lodged at the top of the freshly restored Chinese Chamber of Commerce. One could recognize it from the sleek black motif, streaked with hints of red and bronze mesh screens. Inside, plush corner couches thrown with bright orange hues beckon with their velvety textures. Rooms are smartly laid out in soft cream colours against the dark wood accents. La Mer facial therapies include the use of gemstones. At Il Giardino, the soothing garden becomes the perfect dining backdrop while the remarkable view of the city’s skyline adds depth to La Terrazza. www.bulgarihotels.com
Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Understated luxury amongst Malaysia’s crowning towers • Brimming with a decadent city-centre atmosphere, Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur charms with its gorgeous skyline backdrop, being tucked among the lofty architectural neighbours to the likes of the gleaming Petronas Towers. The lounge, where guests often linger, welcomes with a lovely serving of afternoon tea or a wonderful sip from the Bar Trigona. At night, the entire capital glows, perfectly viewed from the pool—an essential photographic moment. Rooms are sleek, with black marble baths for a more contemporary taste, and tactile fabrics for an enjoyable sensation of visuals and textures.
