Unwind and relax in the bush

WHILE the Big Five game drives and encounters with wildlife are always a huge drawcard, it’s only half the safari experience at Garonga Safari Camp, #SouthAfrica. Equally important is slowing down the pace of life, nurturing yourself, and ‘resetting your system’. #Garonga has just upped the relaxation ante to a whole new level by revamping the existing bush bath by adding a new freestanding bath – but even more excitingly, now offer a dreamy new Star Bath and Yoga Deck.

The Star Bath not only offers views over the bush and the dazzling African night sky - but has its very own galaxy of twinkling stars, all in complete privacy. Soak away your troubles, let go and look back on the sightings and experiences of the day with a glass of wine in hand. 

Those already familiar with the practice of mindfulness and meditation, or those that just love a good stretch or daytime nap, will be excited to see Garonga’s new Yoga Deck. An enclosed tented structure designed to allow air to flow freely, perfectly frames an exquisite view of the valley. You can step onto the mat and practice in privacy surrounded by only the peaceful sounds of the surrounding bush. If you’re lucky you might even get some of the local wildlife passing by!

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Favourite accommodation for U.S. travellers

WHILE traditional resorts and hotels continue to be a favorite for U.S. travelers, Expedia.com data shows a growing interest in alternative lodging options. Here are some of the fastest-growing accommodation types for 2018:

• Tentalows (cross between a tent and a bungalow) – up 135 percent year-over-year
• Chalets – up 85 percent year-over-year
• Villas – up more than 45 percent year-over-year
• Agritourism properties – up more than 40 percent year-over-year
• Houseboats – up more than 35 percent year-over-year

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

The Curious Global Traveller

A race to be the first, a desire to live like a local, and a continued focus on value for money - Booking.com reveals what's driving travellers into original homes, tree houses, boats and beyond.

From accommodations that float, to stays up in the trees, unique property types are a growing trend, with over one third of global travellers (37%)* planning to book a stay in an alternative accommodation in 2019.

Living like a local is key for almost half (49%)** of global travellers, who believe that staying in a home-type accommodation lets them see areas of a city or parts of a country that they wouldn't have otherwise explored.

Keeping a close eye on the travel budget is a top priority, with almost half (45%)** of global travellers stating that staying in a home-type accommodation allows them to feel that they are getting the most value for their money.

Olivier Grémillon, Vice President at Booking.com, explains: "We are seeing a clear trend among travellers to try unique types of accommodations and we understand that the perfect stay may look different for each of them. So, whether it's an icy igloo, a cozy cabin or luxury villa you're after - Booking.com offers more than 5.8 million instantly bookable homes, apartments and other unique places to stay to make sure that your next special experience is just a few clicks away."


Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

241 global awards in 2018

CELEBRATING the year that was, in 2018 Banyan Tree Group were awarded 241 global award for their branding and exceptional experiences as a leading hospitality leader. 

An international operator and developer of premium resorts, hotels, residences, spas, golf and integrated resorts, Banyan Tree continues to lead the luxury travel category, having won 117 international benchmark awards including:

· Travel+Leisure US World’s Best     

  Awards 2018 Top 20 Hotel Brands in the World

· DestinAsian 13th Readers’ Choice Awards 2018 Best Hotel Brands for Leisure

· Beijing News The Best Hotel Brand 2017.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Bio climatic architecture a new hotel for Colombia

BIO Habitat hotel is brand-new hotel in the heart of the coffee region, 40 minutes from El Edén International Airport (AXM) in Armenia, #Colombia. It is characterized by its bio-climatic architecture. 

There are 12 habitats (rooms) equipped with private bathroom, air conditioning, desk, terrace, minibar and safe. Not to forget the spa services and 15 hectares of native forest for walking and sightseeing.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Best Luxury City Hotel

GRAND Park Orchard has been awarded the best “Regional Luxury City Hotel, South East Asia 2018” in the recent World Luxury Hotel Awards, presented at AYANA Resort & Spa, Bali, Indonesia. 

Named the best “Luxury City Hotel” in South East Asia 2018, Grand Park Orchard has been recognised by fellow hotel owners, travellers and industry professionals around the globe for its world-class facilities and excellent service provided to guests. 

Located in the heart of Orchard Road, Grand Park Orchard is just minutes away from Singapore’s most iconic shopping and dining district. Clad in an unmissable herringbone façade, Grand Park Orchard brings its unique design aesthetic to downtown #Singapore.   


Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Debut in one of the UK's largest cities

HOTEL Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station has opened its doors to guests, marking the brand’s debut in one of the UK’s largest cities.

Famous for its cotton mills and its role in the industrial revolution, #Manchester is a vibrant city that is rapidly expanding and regenerating, complementing its historical setting.

The boutique hotel is located at the gateway to the Northern Quarter, Manchester’s creative heart, and is adjacent to Exchange Square, the city’s shopping district.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

A City of Change

ONE of the world’s greatest megalopolises, Jakarta was named among the top ten fastest growing tourism cities in the world based on the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) 2017. #Jakarta has a rich, varied history, and is a city of exciting metamorphosis – with its bustling traffic, its strong affiliations to its own historical roots, and a hub of development in #Indonesia.

Now Swissôtel Hotels and Resorts is set to make its first debut in Jakarta. Opening mid of 2019, Swissôtel Jakarta PIK Avenue is located in a mixed-used lifestyle mall complex. The hotel features 412 spacious guest rooms, six dining outlets, an executive lounge, the Pürovel Spa & Sport facility as well as the city’s largest event space of 3,044 square metres that can accommodate up to 3000 guests in its ballroom.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

The Most Incredible Hotels in the World

FODOR'S Travel, the leading name in travel recommendations for over 80 years, has revived Fodor's Finest: The 100 Most Incredible Hotels in the World, its definitive list of the best hotels in the world.

Reemerging after a four-year hiatus, the exclusive list differs from other "best hotel" lists by consisting entirely of Fodor's Travel editors' and hotel writers' personal picks, and featuring a wide range of hotel properties – not only high-priced or trendy locations. Editors made a particularly special effort to consider affordability when compiling the list.

"Travelers increasingly seek unique, memorable experiences when traveling – and that includes the hotels they choose to stay in," said Jeremy Tarr, Editorial Director of Fodors.com. "The 100 properties on this list are certainly some of the best hotels in the world – but they're also some of the dreamiest, most swoon-worthy, and sometimes, most unusual this world has to offer. Ultimately, each and every one is entirely glorious and utterly memorable."

The Fodor's Finest list divides the hotels it showcases into 10 geographic categories:

The Best Hotels in the USA
The Best Hotels in Europe
The Best Hotels in Asia
The Best Hotels in the Caribbean
The Best Hotels in Mexico and Central America
The Best Hotels in South America
The Best Hotels in Africa
The Best Hotels in the Middle East
The Best Hotels in Australia and the Pacific
The Best Hotels in Canada


Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Portfolio expansion for Exceptional Villas

LEADING luxury villa rental provider, Exceptional Villas announced today that they have further expanded their portfolio across many new markets in #Europe for the 2019 season. The company which are also considered to be one of the most trusted #villas rental companies in the world have added luxury vacation rentals in Ibiza, Mallorca, Italy, Greece and the Greek Islands, France and Italy.

#Italy is the company's most popular European destination. The country has some of the world's most beautiful cities such as Florence, Venice, Rome, Sienna and Milan as well as the beautiful hilltop villages of Tuscany, gorgeous vineyards, the majestic Italian Alps, Italian Islands such as Capri and the stunningly beautiful Amalfi Coast.

It is a country that has something for everyone with properties to suit all tastes and all budgets too. Exceptional Villas expects to see a large increase in visitors travelling to Italy this year, especially from its US clientele.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

For the Chosen Few

A year after devastating Hurricane Irma nearly destroyed Anguilla, the island is set to open for the season, bigger and better than ever. The Caribbean's newest Relais & Châteaux property, the ultra-luxury boutique hotel—QUINTESSENCE, is set to open on November 5, 2018.

Q Hotel Anguilla displays luxury and elegance with nine stunning suites, all accommodations with French châteaux comfort. Ten years to build, owner and famed trial lawyer Geoffrey Fieger, spared nothing to create a timeless, world-class tropical mansion. From the Versailles floor pattern, to the vaulted cedar wood ceilings, to the largest art collection in the #Caribbean, every spacious room is filled with comfort and elegance to create an extraordinary lush tropical experience, inside and out.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK
Picture Credit: Photos by Joe Jenkin

Most Excellent!

TRIPADVISOR has announced the “Most Excellent” hotel chains that have the highest percentage of TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence recipients globally. Now in its eighth year, the Certificate of Excellence is given to accommodations, as well as other travel businesses, that deliver great service and consistently achieve high traveller reviews on TripAdvisor. 

A number of hotel chains based in Asia Pacific were also recognised as the “Most Excellent” hotel chains globally. The Indian Hotels Company (Taj and Vivanta) and Shangri-La Group came in #3 and #5 respectively under the medium chains category, whereas The Oberoi Group, Aman Group, Pan Pacific Hotels Group and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts made up the top 10 in the small chains category.

Global “Most Excellent” Large Hotel Chains

1.   Preferred Hotels & Resorts  

2.   Hyatt Hotels Corporation 

3.   Hilton Worldwide Holdings 

4.   Premier Inn 

5.   Marriott International 

6.   Best Western International 

7.   Radisson Hotel Group 

8.   La Quinta Holdings 

9.   InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) 

10. Travelodge Hotels Limited (UK)

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Rare honour bestowed on Heckfield Place

THE Times of London, has proclaimed Heckfield Place as “Hotel of the Year 2018.” The accolade appeared in the October 28 edition of The Sunday Times, a rare honour for a hotel that had opened only the previous month. 

Heckfield Place is located in the county of Hampshire, an hour southwest of London and just 45 minutes from Heathrow Airport. At the heart of more than 400 acres of grounds, formal gardens, woods and active farmland, the 250-year-old mansion offers 45 rooms.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Accommodation Chain of the Year

MARRIOT International claimed the esteemed title of Accommodation Chain of the Year award at this year’s HM Awards for Hotel and Accommodation Excellence. The hotel industry’s night of nights proved an overwhelming success for Marriott International, with the company recognised across the board for its commitment to exceptional quality and customer service.

These accolades come at a time of continued growth for Marriott International in Australia and the Pacific region, where the company operates 30 hotels and has a further 21 in the pipeline. Marriott International currently employs over 4,000 throughout ANZP and the current pipeline properties will provide a further 2,500+ new hotel jobs in the region.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Magical places to retire to

A new report from the editors at Internationalliving.com points to five jaw-droppingly beautiful places to enjoy a magical retirement, for less. In the right places around the world, retirees can combine a fulfilling, affordable lifestyle in stunning surrounds. International Living’s report delves into five beautiful retirement havens—in Portugal, Mexico, Ireland, Peru, and Cambodia—that offer spectacular surroundings, high quality of life, and affordable costs.

A favorite summer retreat of the former royal family, Sintra is full of national treasures. Just a 40-minute train journey from Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, its palaces, mansions, and architectural follies deliver an enchanted setting. 

For those who dream of living a cosmopolitan lifestyle in a gorgeous setting, Cusco—Peru’s most historic city—is a front runner. This 500-year-old colonial gem has ample domed churches and ancient, pedestrian-only cobblestone streets. 

The west coast of Ireland is enormously inviting, with sandy coves tucked away between cliffs and rocky headlands. The difficult thing will be deciding where to settle—from the heathery mountains of Donegal down to the craggy peninsulas of Kerry, the entire western seaboard delivers a bonanza of scenic splendors. Spanned by a cycling or driving route known as the Wild Atlantic Way.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico was officially founded in 1541, getting rich when silver was discovered in the nearby states of Zacatecas and San Luis Potosi. Supplying the mines and catering to the workers and travelers passing through brought wealth to the city. Plus many of the newly rich silver barons chose to live there. Today, its historic center is pretty much the same as it was 250 years ago, and in 2008 San Miguel was declared a UNESCO World Heritage City.

Siem Reap, Cambodia, the exotic sights and sounds of the Kingdom of Wonder shoots Cambodia to the top of many peoples’ wish list. The nation’s rich history, traditions and culture; its ancient temples, royal palaces and saffron-robed monks attract visitors and expats both. Known as Cambodia’s “temple town,” Siem Reap, in north-western Cambodia, is surrounded by the ruins of the ancient temple city.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Shangri-La in Sydney

NESTLED in the heart of the historic Rocks District, Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney features 565 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, award-winning restaurants, bars and CHI, The Spa, an urban oasis in the heart of the city. The luxury hotel boasts an extraordinarily beautiful view of Sydney’s international icons – Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour.

Shangri-La Hotel, #Sydney made a clean sweep of the 2018 HM Awards for Hotel and Accommodation Excellence, taking home five prestigious awards in Sydney on 7 September 2018. 

1. Executive Pastry Chef Anna Polyviou taking out “Hotel Chef”,
2. Director of Engineering Anura Yapa winning “Hotel Engineer”, and
3. Engineer Service Manager Aditi Sood being awarded “Rising Star”.
4. The hotel named “Highly Commended Luxury Hotel” and
5. Guest Relations Manager Losalini Monano walking away with “Highly Recommended Front Office Associate”.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Hotel news from around the world

ZAZZ Hotels & Resorts, the vibrant upscale brand owned by Asia Prestige Management and managed by Unicorn Hotels & Resorts, is pleased to announce it will debut in Ho Chi Minh, #Vietnam.

Scheduled to open in Q1 2019, ZAZZ Urban Ho Chi Minh Hotel is located in District 5, Saigon’s historic Chinatown. The urban oasis-themed hotel offers 40 stylish guestrooms and suites, with in-room amenities including complimentary ultra-fast wireless Internet, a new generation flat-screen TV, entertainment system plus floor-to-ceiling windows with exquisite views of Ho Chi Minh City.


Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Hot in Havana

Iberostar Hotels & Resorts will open its new luxury hotel in #Havana on Monday, affording the most spectacular views of the capital. 

Overlooking the Malecón Broadwalk and the Bay of Havana, as well as the Tres Reyes del Morro Castle the Iberostar Grand Packard is set to become Iberostar’s flagship for quality and exclusivity in Cuba. 

Combining the building’s original architecture and the renovation of its 1911 façade, featuring innovative and exclusive lines, offering guests 321 rooms as well as luxury services and amenities.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Its a breeze

THE boutique Seabreeze Resort, Samoa has won “Samoa’s Leading Hotel” for the sixth consecutive year, at the 25th annual World Travel Awards held recently in Hong Kong. 

The award winning Seabreeze Resort is gently nestled into a private secluded bay on Samoa’s famous south-east coast of Upolu. The first “Genuine Adults Only” resort in Samoa for guests 18 years and over, Seabreeze provides the ideal romantic getaway for honeymooners and couples or those seeking luxury and intimacy. Since its re-opening in 2011, Seabreeze, has become one of the most sought-after resorts for total exclusivity in Samoa, winning accolades around the world.  

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Best 2018 UK hot tub holiday destinations

THE staycation has grown in popularity over preceding years and with 66% of us planning a break the UK in 2018 (according to ABTA research) it has led to a mini boom for the UK tourist industry.  At Aqua Warehouse we believe enjoying a holiday with friends, family or a romantic break can only be made better with a hot tub. So, we’ve put together our top five favourite UK hot tub holidays, for whatever style of break you’re looking for.

The forest makes for a beautiful escape for the family. Perfect for reconnecting with nature, and spending quality time together as a family. Create unforgettable memories on your forest adventure with Forest Holidays. With 10 locations from Scotland to Cornwall to choose from, you’re spoilt for choice!

If glamping is more your style, try the Sunridge EcoPod in Devon - This takes glamping to a new level! Underfloor heating, luxury German kitchen, remote control colour changing lighting, 3D home cinema snug, games consoles, 10 minutes from a beach and seconds away from your own private hot tub - bliss!

Brook Lodge is one of five detached luxury lodges which are located in idyllic countryside on the Wakes Hall Estate in the breath-taking Colne Valley on the Essex/Suffolk border. Each lodge boasts a verandah and the ultimate indulgence – a soothing Vita Spa 300 series Voeux hot tub, surrounded by 500 acres of land and walks to the village of Wakes Colne.

Knoydart Hide offers stunning luxury Scottish self-catering accommodation for two with hot tub and sauna in a beautiful and secluded woodland setting overlooking Loch Nevis. Total privacy, total luxury, 180 degree breakfast-in-bed forest views from your super-sized antique canopy bed, infra red sauna, outdoor floodlit hot tub, monsoon shower, free wifi throughout and freestanding bath, a truly unique experience.

With cottages and lodges sleeping from 2-9 guests Ta Mill in Cornwall has the facilities to cater for romantic getaways, family holidays, and weddings. The flexibility of self-catering allows you to enjoy the local attractions, but if you really don’t fancy cooking you can ‘rent a chef’ and enjoy a night in with all the luxuries of a night out!


Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK