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    At the center of the French Capital, a new hotel epitomises Parisian chic

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    2 hours ago

    At the center of French Capital, a new hotel epitomizes Parisian chic.
    Ahh Paris – always a good idea isn’t it? It’s one of those cities where you find yourself returning to and not get tired of. This summer, the French Capital buzzes with sporting excitement as it gears up for Paris 2024 Olympics. With an uptick in travel and continuous influx of tourists for summer, enjoying the city’s culture, shopping, and food might pose as a big challenge.
    Luckily, Hotel Balzac just opened in June. This new Relais & Chateux five-star haven sits on the corners of Rue Balzac and Rue Lord Byron – a stone’s throw away from the legendary avenue Champs-Élysées, where you’ll feel the magnetic energy of Paris yet are able to retreat with ease.

    Like with any Relais & Chateux property, Hotel Balzac is full of charm and character, providing a unique sense of place. The Parisian epitome of quiet luxury, it offers all the modern comforts of a discerning traveller and a reliable hospitality service.
    Upon walking past its majestic door for check-in, you’ll feel the intimate and warm atmosphere of the lobby, thanks to the renowned Festen Architecture duo, Charlotte de Tonnac and Hugo Sauzay. The Festen duo have leaned heavily into the 1930s and 1940s for inspiration, revisited with creative modernity and minimalism deeply anchored in Balzac’s Parisian identity to create ultra-chic spaces within the hotel, which is eminently Instagrammable.

    A Chic Stay
    It features 58 rooms and spacious suites (some with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and sky-high rooftop terraces). The bathroom comes with a bathtub or shower (or both!) and is adorned with goregous wood panelling that contrasts with the mosaic marble as well as bath amenities from Diptyque, which is always a plus.

    Looking for something more exceptional? Located on the 6th and top floor, the Paris Sky Suite features a large living room that extends to a terrace overlooking Rue Lord Byron and the Champs-Elysées, facing the Eiffel Tower. On the other side of the long corridor, two peaceful bedrooms with their bathrooms overlook the courtyard and the rooftops of Paris.
    Sleek & Exceptional Dining
    Beyond the glass-roofed lounge, the Hotel Balzac bar is a sleek space for a break during a day of shopping, a lunch with girl friends, or a night cap, and serves bar-style bites including Petrossian caviar specialties or a lobster roll with Espelette pepper and ginger alongside delicious beverages crafted by Head Bartender Julien Quettier.

    Although the culinary offering is limited, there are plenty of options from the neighborhood and without going too far, there’s the exquisite Pierre Gagnaire restaurant, a 3-star Michelin restaurant which is situated… at Hotel Balzac.

    A Unique Wellness Space
    After a hectic day around Paris, the Ikoi Spa offers a unique escape with a holistic approach inspired by Japanese methods. It provides a range of treatments and massages on tables or tatami mats. The pool, sauna, and state-of-the-art fitness room complete the facilities of this unparalleled spa, which will officially open for guests in July 2024.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image: Supplied / Matthieu Salvaing  More

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    5 reason why this luxe Relais & Châteaux property should be on your travel list

    Life by Ruman Baig 40 mins ago Nestled in the heart of the majestic Thar desert, overlooking the sweeping sands of Rajasthan, Mihir Garh by Relais & Châteaux stands as a timeless fortress, a beacon of luxury and heritage. Designed by Sidhart Singh and his wife Rashmi, this architectural marvel pays homage to the local villages, seamlessly blending into its surroundings with rounded edges, open fireplaces, and the warm hues of sandstone. As Avijit Singh, the next-gen successor of Mihir Garh, articulates, “Mihir Garh acts as an envoy of Rajasthan’s rich heritage and culture.” It’s a place where every detail reflects the rugged beauty and timeless allure of the desert landscape, from the handcrafted furnishings sourced from Jodhpur to the age-old techniques used by local artisans in its construction. But what truly sets Mihir Garh apart as the perfect luxury boutique hotel in Jodhpur? Let’s explore five reasons which will compel you to make this the ultimate destination for the upcoming Eid escape. Exquisite luxury Firstly, Mihir Garh offers an unparalleled guest experience, epitomizing luxury and bespoke hospitality. With just nine exclusive suites, each spanning over 1700 square feet and adorned with private terraces, courtyards, and plunge pools, Mihir Garh invites guests to indulge in serenity and splendour. Avijit Singh affirms, “Its status as an exclusive nine-suite boutique hotel ensures an intimate and bespoke stay for every guest.” Sustainable oasis Secondly, Mihir Garh is a testament to sustainability and eco-friendliness, actively contributing to environmental conservation and community development in its surrounding area. From rainwater harvesting and sewage treatment to solar heating and a plastic-free initiative, Mihir Garh’s commitment to sustainability is unwavering. Avijit Singh elaborates, “Mihir Garh is deeply committed to sustainability and eco-friendliness, recognizing the importance of these considerations in the hospitality sector.” Cultural haven Thirdly, Mihir Garh preserves Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage, celebrating the region’s traditions and craftsmanship at every turn. Through its integration of local artisans and crafts into its design and operations, Mihir Garh fosters a deep connection to the land and its people. Avijit Singh emphasizes, “By showcasing authentic Rajasthani craftsmanship and architecture, we aspire to serve as a beacon of heritage preservation.” Unforgettable experiences Fourthly, Mihir Garh offers an array of unforgettable experiences that immerse guests in the essence of Rajasthan. From signature village safaris and equestrian programs featuring Marwari horses to culinary workshops highlighting traditional recipes, Mihir Garh invites guests to partake in the rich tapestry of Rajasthan’s culture and landscapes. Avijit Singh underscores, “We envision introducing new experiences and amenities that elevate the guest experience while staying true to our core values of authenticity and sustainability.” Timeless traditions Lastly, Mihir Garh is not just a hotel; it’s a destination where memories are made and traditions are honored. Whether it’s savoring a meal crafted from old family recipes or exploring the rugged beauty of the desert on a camel safari, every moment at Mihir Garh is imbued with a sense of wonder and enchantment. As Avijit Singh reflects, “Mihir Garh stands as a tribute to all the things Rajasthan is best known for—its rich culture, warm hospitality, majestic desert, and unforgettable experiences.” Mihir Garh is more than just a luxury boutique hotel; it’s a sanctuary where luxury meets heritage, and where every detail is crafted with care and reverence. As the winter winds sweep across the Thar desert, there’s no better place to escape and immerse oneself in the timeless beauty of Rajasthan than Mihir Garh. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Feature Image: Supplied More

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    Discover London’s stylish urban escape: The Arts Club Botique Hotel

    Life

    by Amy Sessions
    51 mins ago

    London’s The Arts Club is the chic, boutique hotel that provides an ideal bolthole within the centre of the city.
    The Stay

    The Arts Club’s rooms and suites offer Members and guests a discreet escape in the heart of bustling Mayfair, situated above the Members Club which was historically founded byCharles Dickens in 1863. The elegant rooms and suites offer a discreet escape in the heart of Mayfair for members and their guests, allowing access to all the facilities of the club during your stay. In the rooms, the finest Beltrami silk linen and towels await, as well as a lavish art deco marble bathroom complete with separate bath and shower. The carefully chosen mattress and bespoke furniture will answer all your comfort needs for an optimal night’s rest whether you’re post travel or at the end of a long workday in the city. Service wise the team are exceptional and at your beckon 24-hours a day to ensure your every whim is responded to swiftly. Some roomsadditionally have a balcony and a peaceful courtyard view for some much-needed fresh air; others overlook the buzzing Dover Street with its glamorous boutiques and galleries.
    The Dinning

    The Brasserie is a lively and spirited restaurant and bar located on the ground floor with adjacent garden. Members and their guests can enjoy its atmosphere throughoutthe whole day. Jean Luc Mongodin, our Executive Head Chef, has created a modern and ambrosial menu, celebrating seasonal produce and Mediterranean flavours. Designed to be shared, the food is light, cooked with the greatest of respect for the carefully sourced ingredients using classical techniques from Chef’s native France.
    Also, not to be missed is Ofelia, The Members’ Lounge that delivers an Italian sensibility and thoughtful areas, comprising a newly designed bar, seating areas, conservatory, Drawing Room and Ante Room. Perfect for all-day meetings, it serves Italian classics with a contemporary twist from a menu curated by our Head Chef, Stefano Mazzonzelli. In the evening, the DJ sets transfer the space into a high-energy lounge.
    The Wellness

    Just over the road from The Arts Club is Lanserhof, whose core ethos is to simply “live better, for longer”. With a holistic approach to patient medical care, accommodating an exclusive patient base, as well as a membership community focused on health and longevity services this is the one stop you need for everything from a quick IV drip boost to an entire body overhaul. The multi-disciplinary medical team is committed to delivering the highest standards of specialist care: each patient receives individualised attention, with care plans tailored to their unique health requirements, lifestyle factors, and personal goals. One visit and you will be entirely addicted.
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    Images: Supplied More

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    A remote and extraordinary stay in this middle-of-nowhere oasis

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    3 hours ago

    What once started as a pop-up hotel in Tulum, the Habitas group is now emerging as one of the trailblazing players in hospitality with a focus on thoughtful explorations and immersive experiences.
    This year, the Habitas hotel group launches another spectacular addition in Morocco with Caravan Dakhla. A two-hour flight from Casablanca, this middle-of-nowhere oasis redefines the hospitality industry, delivering unique stays powered by a pioneering spirit for community and adventure.
    THE STAY
    Sustainability is one of Habitas’ brand pillars. In keeping with this commitment, it took over an existing hotel and revamped it with a design that echoes Dakhla’s desert environment. The interiors are accented with hand-picked decor crafted by local artisans offering a taste of Moroccan tradition. The riad-style rooms, villas and lodges deliver breathtaking views of endless dunes and lagoons and peaks of the High Atlas mountains and feature outdoor showers and spacious areas to lounge and rest in between adventures, nomad style.
    THE DINING
    Levante offers an indoor and outdoor culinary experience that bridges the rich histories of Latin American and Moroccan cuisines. In keeping with the Habitas ethos, Levante serves up savoury dishes made from locally sourced ingredients and fresh seafood from the surrounding region and villages. A must try? Lagoon Oysters served with artichoke bechamel sauce.
    THE HERO EXPERIENCE
    The surrounding raw beauty of nature takes centrestage at Caravan Dakhla. A region known as a kitesurfing spot for its unique lagoon, crystal blue waters and consistent winds, days are easily characterised by roaming deserted wadis or taking up a chance to try something new such as kiteboarding or windsurfing.
    Scroll through the gallery below to discover the property:

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    Images: Supplied More