For those visiting a city, sometimes seeking respite from the hustle and bustle is equally essential to seeing the city itself. And for those travelling for work, having a peaceful nest to return to following a busy day is an immeasurable necessity. Chosen by our travel team, the following properties provide a calm interlude amongst five very different destinations; if you prefer tranquillity, here is where you should stay.
The Siam Hotel, Bangkok
With a design reminiscent of a stately home, The Siam Hotel is a perfect place to escape incredibly busy Bangkok. Ideally situated in the Dusit district close to the river – the hotel can also be reached by boat from the central Sathorn Pier for a more adventurous arrival – the property’s villas and suites feature giant beds, bathtubs, and butler service, so everything you might need or want is available on demand.
The Siam Hotel, Bangkok
Enjoy delicious Thai food outdoors riverside or in the stylish restaurant. Fresh and tasty, this is another aspect of the hotel that lends a unique comfort level – it feels and tastes like a home-cooked meal. To truly take relaxation to an entirely new level, indulge in a treatment in the onsite Opium Spa (the Thai compress massage is exceptional), and you’ll completely forget about the busy city just over the river.
Janu Tokyo, Tokyo
Little sister to one of our favourite luxury hotel groups, Aman, the new Janu Tokyo offers luxuriously serene accommodations. Set in the buzzy Azabudai Hills complex, it is a resort unto itself – somewhat of a mini city near central Tokyo. Featuring eight distinct dining options and a huge wellness centre, there is little reason to leave once you’ve made it ‘home’; we especially loved the omakase at Iigura and enjoyed visiting the hammam, and the 24-metre pool is beautiful.
Janu Tokyo, Tokyo
The soothing rooms are spacious and have soaking tubs, views, and balconies, offering the perfect retreat from exploring – or working – in one of the busiest cities in the world.
Four Seasons Resort at Troon North, Scottsdale
Whilst Scottsdale might not be the first place that comes to mind when one imagines a bustling city, this part of Arizona is home to the headquarters of many companies and regularly hosts business travellers. It is also a location full of natural beauty with the Grand Canyon and Sedona’s Red Rocks nearby – imagine valleys, mountains, cacti, and sweeping desert vistas.
Four Seasons Resort at Troon North, Scottsdale
This luxe property is just far enough off the beaten path to make the most of said nature. Expect the excellent service that the Four Seasons group is known for, with comfortable and spacious rooms (we very much recommend the Prescott Suite, with its expansive patios, plunge pool, and fireplace). There are views from nearly every room, and if you’ve travelled for business, you’ll be able to leave work behind the second you step through the door.
Three restaurants and a separate bar-lounge mean there’s variety onsite, too, and should you be staying in a suite, in-room dining is comfortable and of supreme quality. Schedule extra days to explore – the excellent concierge team can arrange exploratory visits to Red Rocks and further afield, time permitting.
Palácio Tangará, São Paulo
You might not believe you’re in the centre of the city during a stay at Palácio Tangará – situated in Burle Marx Park, verdant gardens and trees surround the property. After long days exploring and absorbing the brilliant cultural scene of São Paulo, head back to this hotel, and it will feel as if you’ve ventured a world away.
Palácio Tangará, São Paulo
Excellent dining, live events, wellness, and recreational activities mean there’s little reason to leave the property once you’ve returned. The food programme is helmed by none other than Jean-Georges Vongerichten, so expect exquisite cuisine crafted with primarily local ingredients. Brazilian flavours meet French preparations for vibrant and unexpected options; indulge and absorb the full experience with the six-course tasting menu.
Should you need further relaxation, the onsite spa, courtesy of Lancôme Absolue, offers fantastic body scrubs. Alternatively, you can opt for an outdoor massage surrounded by the towering trees of the park.
Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
Dubai has become a popular travel destination for visitors of all types, for business and pleasure. If exploring the towering metropolis becomes a bit much, then Al Maha is a perfect place to stay. Surrounded by dunes and the still of the desert, it is an optimal destination to see another side of Dubai; located on a conservation reserve, free-roaming animals and breathtaking sunsets offer a true escape from the city.
Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
The accommodations are a series of tent-style suites with private plunge pools and personal butler service, so no request goes unanswered. We love the alfresco dining programme – beneath the stars, enjoy global cuisine with menus citing distinct favourites from different world regions. And if you have the energy to explore, the desert is ripe for discovery via 4X4 or camelback, with the excellent staff arranging sightseeing tours with the utmost comfort in mind.
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