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      An editor-approved Jaipur guide: From majestic stays to magical heritage sites

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      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      2 hours ago

      Jaipur holds an abundance of colour, beauty, and history. From majestic stays to magical heritage sites, revel in the sights and sounds of the charming pink city.
      Scroll through the gallery for an editor-approved travel guide to Jaipur.
      THE STAYS
      VILLA PALLADIO JAIPUR

      Decked in varied hues of red, Villa Palladio Jaipur is a striking structure that marries rococo exuberance with the decadence of the maharajas in a uniquely joyful style, both equally at home in Italy as it is in India. Its painted verandas and scalloped arches open onto lush Mughal gardens of red roses, strict geometries and central water fountains. Canopied beds, embroidered bedsheets, inlaid marble floors and hand-carved marble latticed screens in the nine uniquely decorated rooms and suites further enhance the sense of exquisite craftsmanship (the entirety of VP furnishing was fabricated bespoke in Jaipur). Hidden behind hedges of blossoming hibiscus is a Mughal arched pool house accented with candy striped sunbeds.
      Wellness amenities include a spa offering purifying, nourishing and grounding rituals, a garden-side meditation and yoga room alongside a scarlet library, a boutique stocking holiday essentials and designer threads, as well as a stable of six Marwari horses. From breakfast served on the delicately painted floral balcony, snacks served in the striped Pool House to a lavish lunch and dinner at the charming Garden Verandah overlooking landscaped gardens, dining at Villa Palladio is a feast for the senses. The menu, perfected over several months by the Italian-Swiss owner Barbara Miolini, champions the robust flavors of southern Italy and, of course, a selection of subtly spiced Rajasthani classics.
      For reservations, visit villa-palladio-jaipur.com
      THE JOHRI

      A 19th-century home restoration in the midst of Old Town Jaipur that captures the elegance of a bygone era for a new generation of travellers. Nestled in the heart of Jaipur’s iconic jewellers’ bazaar, The Johri tastefully masters old-world charm featuring a well-curated mix of antique furnitures, textiles and art – a haven of relaxed splendour for design and culture enthusiasts. It houses five spacious suites overlooking a traditional charming inner courtyard named after precious gemstones: Manek, Neelam, Sona, Panna and Moti.
      For reservations, visit thejohrijaipur.com
      TAJ RAMBAGH PALACE

      If only the Rambagh Palace’s old walls could talk, it would tell stories from its royal past. From 1835 until today, it continues to play the role of a gracious host to prominent figures and illustrious guests. Through the years, the palace has retained its splendour, extravagantly decorated with elaborate detailings and lattice-work, sandstone balustrades, cuplos and cenotaphs.
      For reservations, visit tajhotels.com
      LEELA PALACE JAIPUR

      Located in a peaceful area away from the buzz of the city, The Leela Palace Jaipur wows with true Indian luxury. Can’t-miss quintessential experiences include Rajasthani folk dances, expeditions to the elephant village, holistic spa treatments, cycle tours of the sprawling garden and more.
      For reservations, visit theleela.com
      ANOPURA

      Backdropped by the Aravalli mountains, Anopura is a charming stay in Jaipur’s countryside. Nestled in an estate garden and flowering meadows, the property is surrounded with pomegranate and frangipani trees perfect for a slower pace for your holiday. Its serene minimalist interiors takes on modern Jaipur influences, while the corners of Anopura are individually decked with antiques, art and fabrics sourced across Rajasthan.
      For reservations, visit anopura.com
      THE SIGHTS & SPOTS
      A visit to Jaipur is not complete without stepping foot inside majestic historic landmarks such as Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), a five-story extraordinary architectural marvel with a beguiling facade, and The City Palace.

      Built in the 17th Century, The City Palace located in Old Jaipur is home to smaller structures like the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple, and the City Palace Museum.

      Within The City Palace Museum lies Baradari where royal history meets fine dining – a culinary destination serving contemporary dishes with local flavours.
      Photo: Henry Wilson
      For smaller bites and sips, Bar Palladio is a cool hangout spot located with Narain Niwas Palace Hotel that serves Italian cuisine and beverages. The restaurant and lounge, designed by Dutch designer Marie-Anne Oudejans, is a maximalist wonderland with wandering peacocks and lush gardens.
      Amrapali Museum is home to rich heritage of Indian handicrafts, decorative crafts and exquisite jewellery. Founded in the 80s by Rajiv Arora and Rajesh Ajmera, the displays pay homage to India’s insurmountable craftsmanship that have shaped India’s jewellery narrative.

      For those looking to bring home a piece of Jaipur, Parampara is a multi-brand concept store with a made-in-India verve – a shopping haven with a kaleidoscopic of local threads with an international flair.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      In pics: Snippets of Hande Erçel’s Insta-worthy trip to Japan

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      Known for her wanderlust inspiration, the Hande Erçel added yet another scenic spot to our list this year.
      Having already paid a visit to Bali and Mumbai this year, the actress now visited Japan to perhaps take a break from all the work stress and take a break.
      From sipping on her matcha at The Matcha Tokyo to even visiting the renowned Japanese restaurant WAGYUMAFIA, the Turkish actress made her way around the country, experiencing best what its known for. The Turkish actress visited Osaka and Tokyo during her stay and explored all the key touristic sites which included rejuvenating onsen baths, slurping delicious ramen, and even enjoying the street food delights that looked beyond delectable.
      During her trip she was seen donned in Miu Miu pieces, Kith accessories and Pomelleto jewellery to complement her minimal evening look.
      For many travel enthusiasts, the dream of visiting Japan is almost etherial. The island country is known for its rich culture, modern architecture, zen lifestyle, clean streets, safety, efficient public transport, precise craftsmanship, and top-notch hospitality, including its fresh, flavourful ingredients and diverse culinary offerings.
      As a keen travel enthusiast, Erçel shared a series of portrait images to her 32.1 million fans on Instagram.  So, swipe through the gallery to see the actress’ visit to all the scenic spots in Japan for the ultimate holiday getaway.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      How One&Only One Za’abeel brings urban energy and experiences to the city

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      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      2 hours ago

      This dual-tower vertical resort masterpiece, a collaboration between acclaimed architects and luxury hospitality leader Kerzner International, stands gleamingly tall at the crossroads of DIFC, World Trade Centre and Downtown Dubai.
      A breathtaking addition to the ever-evolving Dubai skyline, One&Only One Za’abeel’s towering presence sets a spectacular stage for exceptional experiences.

      THE STAY
      Masterminded by Jean-Michel Gathy, the interior touches draw inspiration from the desert landscape, creating a thoughtfully curated ambiance and overall, a cohesive and immersive experience. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by a seamless display of artistry that blends culture and creativity – from the mesmerising geometric masterpiece by American artist Steven Naifeh to an eclectic array of international and regional works.

      One&Only One Za’abeel offers a collection of immaculately designed rooms and suites as well as curated corner suites for business, wellness, and creative pursuits, with exceptional privileges and amenities for discerning travellers amidst the bustling cityscape. The Villa One is a re-imagined signature villa taken to lofty new heights. The 755 square-meter expanse includes two bedrooms, a majlis, an outdoor infinity pool, cinema, gym, and comes with exclusive benefits such as a dedicated host, in-villa personal trainers, spa treatments and private chef access.

      THE DINING
      Dramatically perched between the two towers, The Link is a futuristic boulevard floating 100 metres above the city. The world’s longest cantilever building, this culinary haven gathers immersive gastronomic experiences and the UAE’s longest suspended infinity pool, in one architectural marvel. Expect Michelin-starred French cuisine at La Dame De Pic by Anne-Sophie Pic, contemporary Moorish delights at Qabu by Paco Morales, refined modern Japanese fare at Sagetsu by Tetsuya Wakuda, and more.

      THE WELLNESS
      The first of its kind in Dubai, the Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie is where wellness takes centre stage. Dedicated to unlocking longevity and lasting vitality, the pioneering treatments combine the latest in transformative health science, cutting-edge aesthetics, and tailored wellness solutions. This three-storey advanced wellness space combines evidence-based medicine and pioneering aesthetics to deliver ultra-personalised wellness solutions to address the daily stressors of urban living.

      Spread over three floors, The Hub comprises of 29 treatment rooms for wellbeing and clinical therapies; a Movement Studio with state-of-the-art gym facilities; a Longevity Bar; and the region’s first Longevity Index Lounge, which boasts cutting-edge solutions including the Neuro Wave Stimulation – a tech-guided acoustic and vibrational therapy that enables even the busiest of minds to enter a deep state of relaxation.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      April’s – The Abundance Issue with Louis Vuitton – Download Now
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      The ultimate city retreat: Abundant in heritage, soulful style and experiences

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      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      57 mins ago

      Nestled within a tranquil golden landscape, Bab Al Shams Resort is the ultimate last-minute city getaway retreat abundant in heritage, soulful style and experiences.
      THE STAY

      Bab Al Shams is part of the Rare Finds collection of hospitality addresses which provides guests with a storied and luxurious experience drawn from the distinct heritage of its location. Having undergone a renovation and relaunch last year, this desertscape boasts of decor and overall vibe that incorporates hints of local cultural elements with a contemporary minimalist touch. 115 rooms and suites may sound like a lot, but the vast property has been laid out in a way that you get privacy and peace during your stay – truly a modern oasis of comfort.
      THE DINING

      At daytime, get whisked to the Mediterranean while dining at Zala, where they serve a selection of Turkish and Greek dishes perfect for a leisurely lunch. For sundowners and Pan-Asian cravings, the newly opened rooftop lounge Anwā offers Pan-Asian tapas and excellently crafted cocktails. Come night time, Ninive Bab Al Shams brings an unique Bedouin-inspired dining experience in a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere. Savour Middle Eastern specialties featuring Iranian, Iraqi, Turkish and Moroccan influences.

      THE WELLNESS
      The Spa & Hammam reinforces a holistic approach to wellness offering experiences infused with Arabian healing traditions, drawing and healing from its surrounding dunes to rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit using organic and sustainable products from both international and homegrown brands such as Whind, De L’Arta, Bamford and Maison d’Asa.

      The hero experience is the Oriental Hammam where guests tap into the time-honoured practice of sand bathing within decadent quartz and oud, warm black soap, a neroli Rassoul mask combined with an Argan therapeutic massage followed by an Arabian oud facial.
      WHAT TO PACK

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      April’s – The Abundance Issue with Louis Vuitton – Download Now
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      Your ultimate hotel guide on where to stay in Bangkok

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 7 IMAGES
      There’s something irresistible about the city that keeps bringing us back to it.
      Having visited almost 6 times last year, this Thai capital lures every type of traveller from around the world with its high-rise hotels, lush parks and hidden gems that emulates an element of newness every time we visit.
      From boasting rooftop infinity pools to delectable Michelin-starred menus, Bangkok is only a six-hour trip from Dubai, and with four direct flights per day from Dubai International Airport, it’s a must-visit destination to visit, especially during long weekends such as the upcoming Eid al-Fitr holiday.
      As a sprawling megacity, finding the right property to stay at can enhance your experience. With its unfathomable charm, we’re sure to go back and explore all the hidden gems that the city has to offer.
      Additionally, Thailand has now introduced a visa waiver for Indian tourists granting a 30-day visa-free stay for leisure purposes to individuals holding Indian passports or travel documents, making it an easy destination to visit especially for families.
      So, depending on the kind of experience you’re looking to have, here we’ve listed some of the best hotels to stay in Bangkok.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Discover the perfect blend of luxury and authenticity in this Sri Lankan coastal paradise

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      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      2 hours ago

      In a sea of luxury holiday escapes, this award-winning hotel resort in Sri Lanka stands as a beacon of quiet luxury: Cape Weligama.
      A part of the Resplendent collection of boutique hotels in Sri Lanka (Ceylon Tea Trails, Kayaam House, and Wild Coast Tented Lodge are its sister properties) and a member of the Relais & Chateaux association known with a roster of unique hotels across the world, a discerning traveller can only expect unmatched hospitality and an authentic stay.
      Your journey begins once you take a 4-hour flight from Dubai to Colombo and from there, another 2-hour drive to the south coast of Sri Lanka where a serene tropical paradise awaits.
      THE STAY
      Picture this: a cascading series of private villas and suites nestled along the picturesque southern coast of Sri Lanka named after the most celebrated nautical journeys like Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta. Pus, an award-winning infinity pool that boasts of Weligama’s stunning vast Indian Ocean views – with the frequent sightings of the resident peacock and squirrels. It doesn’t get as picturesque as that.

      This palm-fringed cliffside 5-hectare expanse seamlessly fuses traditional Sri Lankan aesthetics with contemporary touches throughout the property. Each colonial-style villa and suite offer its own unique charm and comforts including an assigned butler, ensuring to craft a tailored stay for guests. The intricately carved woodwork and furnishings speaks of luxury and refinement while colourful tapestry adds a local touch to the decor. Beyond its aesthetics, Cape Weligama is a sanctuary of solitude, tucked aways amidst lush tropical landscapes, offering a sense of exclusivity and privacy that elevates the experience.

      THE DINING
      Surely, another highlight of your stay at Cape Weligama is the culinary experience.

      From a selection of sumptuous Sri Lankan delicacies and freshly-caught seafood served at Ocean Terrace, a relaxing traditional Ceylon high tea and sundowners at Surf Bar, to relishing in a gourmet feast at the Lookout Blue, private cliff-top with scenic sunset view – each dining experience is a true delight for the senses.

      THE WELLNESS
      For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort’s spa offers a range of indulgent treatments designed to soothe the mind, body and soul for unparalleled bliss. Wellness warriors can also enjoy a guided group yoga session in the morning, with a panoramic ocean view of course.
      THE HERO EXPERIENCES
      When you have such swoon-worthy scenery, a crescent-shaped infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and excellent cuisine, languid days easily go by lounging and leaving the grounds might become a struggle.

      Thankfully with Weligama’s charm and proximity to neighboring towns, one can be easily swayed to step foot outside. Despite Cape Weligama’s secluded setting, you’re not too isolated from exhilarating leisure and once-in-a-lifetime adventure opportunities, that you can book directly through your butler or at the concierge. Spend a day venturing out into the sea on catamaran-style yachts for a whale-watching excursion and another to explore what Weligama’s neighboring towns of Ahangama, Midigama and the World Heritage List town of Galle, have to offer (think: surfing lessons, ancient temples, forts and vibrant markets, and more).

      WHAT TO PACK
      A mix of casual outfits and dressier separates in earty tones and vibrant vacation-ready exotic prints can see you through your entire holiday whether you’re pool lounging or pursuing an outdoor activity. For the wanderers and sunseekers, bring the necessary beauty essentials including sunscreen, bronzing oils, and insect repellent sprays are a must.
      Swipe through the gallery below for stylish, editor-approved vacation essentials:

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      6 short-haul Eid getaways rooted in design and culture to book right now

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      Life by Camille Macawili 5 mins ago Planning for the upcoming Eid Al Fitr holidays? From a remote desert destination in Qatar to a charming stay in Lake Como, Emirates Woman selects the latest and sweetest short-haul getaways to book right now for Eid Al Fitr. BROADWICK SOHO – LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM Located in the heart of London’s West End, Broadwick Soho is as charming and characterful as its storied neighbourhood. Channeling the glamour and wild energy of London’s most vibrant area into a contemporary 57-room retreat, Broadwick Soho exhibits great style and character with its flamboyant décor: a mix of English eccentricity and with a sprinkle of Disco fabulousness. For reservations, visit broadwicksoho.com PASSALACQUA – LAKE COMO, ITALY Images: Supplied; Stefan Giftthaler A stay at Passalacqua offers a much-needed antidote to time-crunched vacations. Embrace the Italian art of dolce far niente at this 5-star hotel on Lake Como for a dash of dolce vita, whether its yoga beneath the magnolias, a stroll through Moltrasio’s ancient lanes, learning how to make pasta or perhaps skimming across the lake in a vintage motor launch. For reservations, visit passalacqua.it HÔTEL DES GRAND VOYAGEURS – PARIS, FRANCE Hôtel des Grand Voyageurs is a sleek haven for art, design, and culture enthusiasts. The interiors, a mix of contemporary flair with the nobi- lity of old-world Europe, are curated by Milanese architect and designer Fabrizio Casiraghi. Sharp by day and sultry by night, each aesthetic space – from the 138 rooms down to the American-French brasserie – delivers a fresh yet charismatic ambience on Quarter Saint-Placide. For reservations, visit hoteldesgrandsvoyageurs.com ÀNI – DIKWELLA, SRI LANKA A four-hour flight from the UAE and a two-hour drive from Colombo will take you to the southern coast of Sri Lanka where you’ll be embraced by a verdant jungle and endless views of the sea. ÀNI is a luxury beachfront estate with a tropical modernism-inspired decor that offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and an all-inclusive crafted stay. For reservations, visit aniprivateresorts.com ROOMS – BATUMI, GEORGIA Batumi is the capital of the autonomous Adjara region – both a port town and a holiday destination. With its outsized glass towers and leafy old streets, Adjara has its own Turkish-inflected dialect, distinct cuisine, lush rainforests, ancient Roman ruins and beaches for miles – definitely far from the brutalist Tbilisi that you know. ROOMS Batumi reflects this environment, drawing inspiration from a mix of Japanese, European, and LA styles. This design-led property delivers a fresh coastal twist mixed with 70s flair and hints of Japanese influence. For reservations, visit roomshotels.com OUR HABITAS RAS ABROUQ – RAS ABROUQ, QATAR Following the debut of an award-winning hotel in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, is Our Habitas Ras Abrouq. Located in an untouched region on Qatar’s west coast and bordering a UNESCO protected site, Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve, this new property is a soulful space to enjoy nature’s beauty, with a dramatic coastal and desert backdrop to boot. From wellness programmes to locally sourced nourishing meals at Qissa, you won’t have to venture far for this one-of-a-kind travel experience you can explore this Eid. For reservations, visit ourhabitas.com – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram March’s – The Authenticity Issue with Mouawad – Download Now More

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      In pics: Hande Erçel shares snippets from her trip to Mumbai

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      Life by Sarah Joseph 1 hour ago The 29-year-old Turkish actress has been travelling the world and is currently in India with all smiles. From Bali, Italy to Paris, this Turkish actress is an avid traveller. By always giving her 31.8 million fans wanderlust inspiration, she recently added Mumbai on our travel list. From experiencing nature to booking in some time for sight-seeing, we definitely know that the actress loves immersing herself in the country she travels to. In one of the videos Erçel even did a little dance while she was on the way to her destination. Known for her sartorial fashion choices, she left no stone unturned and was even seen in a crisp pinstripe co-ord set complemented with Gold Bottega Veneta earrings, looking ever-so-stunning as always. She shared a series of snippets from her trip to her 31.8 million fans, so to see where the actress has been to, swipe through the images from her trip. Now the question lies if this trip was scheduled in for work or play? Maybe there might be a highly-anticipated collaboration around the corner. However, only time will tell. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Instagram @handemiyy More