VIP GET AWAYS

The chalet-style abodes at W Verbier

 

London lovers can set up camp in one of Holborn’s finest: Rosewood London—a fave of show-biz glitterati such as Oprah Winfrey and Ellie Goulding. While the 306-key hotel recalls a grand country manor on the outside—the Edwardian facade comes complete with a carriageway entrance, and English gardens and courtyards— the interiors channel a modern British palace. The lobby, with a stunning Renaissance-style marble staircase that extends through all seven storeys, striking marble flooring and a rich, dark palette, exudes opulence, which is brought into the rooms courtesy of lacquer, textured wood and marble accents. Its rooms are among the largest in the city’s hotels, and the suites come with butler service—there’s even a fragrance butler who can deliver a selection of designer scents if you’ve forgotten yours. Solid dining options and a luxurious spa make staying in easy, but should you want to venture out, museums, theatres and the iconic The Ivy, where even British royals dine, are just round the corner.

 

For magical days on snowy slopes and cosy nights in front of fireplaces, there’s luxury ski resort W Verbier. Perched on a plateau in the Swiss Alps, at an altitude of 1,531m, the swanky resort is surrounded by 400km of skiing and hiking terrain—making for a dreamy wonderland come winter. Design aficionados will appreciate the juxaposition of the traditional chalet-style wooden facade with its hip, sophisticated interiors. Evoking a homey feel thanks to materials such as wood and stone, the 123 guest rooms, suites and W Residences come with Signature W beds and private balconies, carving out spaces you’ll gladly come back to after a day enjoying the best snow in Europe. Oh, and while you’re at it, no harm keeping your eyes peeled for famous faces—singer-songwriter Pixie Lott and her model boyfriend Oliver Cheshire are regulars here. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are also known to frequent the area, which has a good mix of shopping, dining and nightlife. Who knows? You just might score that wefie that’ll earn you bragging rights.

 

"The Spa at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi"

 

There’s just something so soothing about island life, and with the alluring teal and turquoise tints that surround it, the Maldives has long been a favourite child of those in need of R&R. A trip to the island nation is best enjoyed with a stay at one of the most luxe resorts, and Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, home to the largest private island in the Maldives and celebrated restaurants, is just that. But don’t just take our word for it—a host of celebs, including model Emily Ratajkowski and actress Gal Gadot, have taken to Instagram to extol its virtues via selfies of themselves enjoying the spa, water activities and romantic dinner dates. Behold, too, the personal concierge service—your go-to person knows everything about you, from your palate preferences right down to what time you usually wake and retire for the night.