You’ve strolled along the canals of Venice, caught sunsets in Santorini, lounged in the Maldives, and wandered the streets of Barcelona. You’ve ticked off the “must-see” destinations, yet the urge to travel hasn’t faded—it’s only grown sharper. For seasoned travellers, the thrill now lies in discovering places that feel untouched, experiences that surprise, and hotels that are destinations in themselves.

It’s no longer enough to follow the crowd; today’s travel is about seeking corners of the world that still feel like secrets. Whether it’s waking up to the vast savannahs of Kenya, exploring Himalayan villages off the usual route, or lingering in a Renaissance town perched on the Sicilian coast, the best journeys are the ones that challenge what you thought you knew about the world. These boutique escapes aren’t just places to sleep—they’re immersive experiences, designed to reconnect you with nature, culture, and design in ways that make every trip feel genuinely new.

Safari & Tropical Wilderness

Ilora Retreats – Masai Mara, Kenya

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Nestled in the heart of one of Africa’s most breathtaking wildernesses, Ilora Retreats is where raw nature and refined tranquillity meet. Located near the famed Serena Crossing, this safari sanctuary draws you into the rhythm of the savannah — from sunrise game drives to open‑air yoga on the plains. With just 14 beautifully appointed tents and unforgettable “star bed” evenings beneath the Mara sky, Ilora is a journey into wonder and wild beauty.

Suitree Experience Hotel – Guanacaste, Costa Rica

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A tropical haven rooted in Pura Vida, Suitree Experience Hotel marries mindful design with the lush jungle landscapes of Guanacaste. Thoughtfully composed spaces open to verdant gardens, spacious terraces and the warm Costa Rican breeze, while curated nature walks, horseback rides and excursions into national parks create an immersive escape.

Mountain & Alpine Retreats

The Kumaon – Almora, India

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The Himalayas are vast, and yet The Kumaon makes them feel intimate. This alpine lodge in Almora blends minimalist design with a profound sense of calm amid misty peaks, where every balcony opens onto panoramic mountain views. Each chalet’s expansive windows frame forests and peaks, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor. It’s the perfect retreat for travellers seeking elevation in both altitude and perspective, offering quiet moments for reflection and a taste of local culture that feels untouched by the crowds.

Serras Andorra – Soldeu, Andorra

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For those who prefer snow-capped peaks to jungle canopies, Serras Andorra combines mountain chic with Pyrenean adventure. Framed by the Grandvalira peaks, this intimate alpine hotel invites you to explore snowy slopes or unwind in a warm, design‑rich setting. Michelin‑star cuisine, a holistic spa and sweeping mountain vistas make this an unforgettable alpine oasis. From skiing down pristine slopes to sipping hot chocolate by a sleek fireplace, it’s a sophisticated alpine escape that balances activity and luxury effortlessly.

Hotel Cortisen am See – St Wolfgang, Austria

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Perched on the shores of Lake Wolfgang, this adults‑only retreat blends playfulness with modern personality. Awaken to rare lake views, enjoy panoramic swims in the 25 m pool or step into nature with rowing boats and lakeside hikes on your doorstep. With stylish interiors and a genuine lakeside feel, Cortisen am See is a refreshing alternative to typical alpine stays.

City & Cultural Immersion

CHAO Beijing – Beijing, China

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Vibrant, contemporary, and infused with local culture, CHAO Beijing invites travellers to experience the Chinese capital in a completely fresh way. Beyond the Forbidden City and bustling streets, this boutique hotel offers a quiet sanctuary where design, comfort, and cultural storytelling intersect. Floor‑to‑ceiling windows, open-plan interiors, and modern design create a sense of space rare in Beijing, while communal areas, curated art, and creative events make the hotel a destination in its own right.

Q92 Noto Hotel – Noto, Sicily

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Housed in a beautifully restored 18th‑century palazzo in Sicily’s baroque jewel of Noto, Q92 offers a grand yet intimate getaway. Original stone walls, hand‑crafted fabrics and elegant interiors sit alongside warm hospitality and bespoke experiences. Wander the UNESCO‑listed streets by day, and return to this oasis of Sicilian style and comfort by night.

Countryside & Coastal Retreats

Hyll Hotel – Chipping Campden, UK

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For a quintessential English escape, Hyll Hotel wraps countryside charm and cosy comfort into a picture-perfect retreat. This 14th‑century manor in the heart of the North Cotswolds invites you to slow down and savour quiet luxuries. Here, comfort and country-house warmth take centre stage. The ideal spot for slow walks through local villages, long afternoon teas, and evenings by the fire—proof that sometimes the most restorative travel experiences are quietly tucked away from the crowds.

Maison La Minervetta – Sorrento, Italy

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For the coastal dreamers, Maison La Minervetta feels more like a Mediterranean holiday home than a hotel. Perched dramatically above Marina Grande in Sorrento, Vibrant design, nautical flair and panoramic views of the Bay of Naples make this a feast for the senses. Add stunning terraces, intimate social spaces and that seaside breeziness, and you have a coastal destination that feels fresh even for seasoned Italy lovers.

Instants d’Absolu Ecolodge & Spa – Auvergne, France

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In one of France’s most untouched corners, Instants d’Absolu is an eco‑conscious retreat beside a tranquil volcanic lake. Once a Templar house, today it’s a place for reflection and slow discovery. Rooms blend contemporary comfort with rugged surrounds, and experiences like bespoke private immersions and holistic spa moments make it ideal for those seeking depth and serenity.