Lifestyle and Adventure
Q&A With Patina’s General Manager Anthony Gill
In this exclusive Q&A with the resort’s General Manager, we’ll explore what sets Patina Maldives apart in the competitive Maldivian hospitality scene, its dedication to sustainability, and the personalised experiences that make it a standout destination.
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands offers an extraordinary blend of modern luxury, innovative design, and sustainability. The resort is renowned for its sophisticated architecture, eco-conscious approach, and its commitment to creating a unique and unforgettable experience for each guest. From wellness retreats to curated adventures, we’ll uncover what makes Patina Maldives a true sanctuary in the Maldives.
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Sungai Jungle Villas: Balis Hidden Oasis
26th July 2023
Nestled in the heart of Bali's mesmerising landscapes, renowned for its ethereal beauty and serenity, lies an exquisite hidden gem known as Sungai Jungle Villas. This exclusive property epitomises the pinnacle of luxurious living and tranquillity. Let's delve into the captivating experiences offered by Sungai Jungle Villas, and explore why it has become an esteemed haven for discerning travellers seeking an unparalleled, blissful escape.
Review of Cora Cora Maldives: An effortless luxury destination
27th July 2022
But in this wonderful, colourful and effortlessly luxurious Maldivian resort, this tagline is more than just a marketing line, but a way of life. Cora Cora is located in the small island of Raa Maamigilli and is only accessible via scenic sea plane. No matter where your original point of embarkation may have been, all the travel-related stress instantly melts away once you set foot at Cora Cora. It is a kind of inexplicable magic that only a resort like this can deliver.
Review of Staycation | Hawkstone Hall
19th July 2022
The Grade I-listed stately home, Hawkstone Hall & Gardens in Shropshire, opened in April earlier this year. This spectacular Georgian property, set within 88 acres of manicured gardens, has been restored to its former splendour; and now, for the first time in its 550 year history, is open as a luxury hotel and exclusive wedding venue.
Featuring Ragdale Hall – pure heaven in the Leicestershire...
15th July 2022
What better way to treat myself than head to Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa. With a team of over 460 staff, this privately owned retreat set amongst the soothing peace of the Leicestershire countryside is a relaxing heaven. The guests are predominantly women (90%) and the 93-bedroom spa offers luxurious pampering with a huge range of facilities including six pools, heat experiences, tennis, boules, pitch ‘n’ putt, croquet, cycling, and a mind gym are all available. My aim for my Overnight Reviver Break was total relaxation. On arrival, my mum and I were greeted by the friendly and polite Guest Liaison team who offered a refreshing drink while we were booked in. Valet parking is offered to all guests, and our luggage was whisked up to the room in a matter if minutes.
Review of Hong Kong’s best kept secret – the Pottinger review
7th July 2022
Discover this luxury Hong Kong hotel in the centre of the city's hustle and bustle is actually a quiet respite from the busy pedestrian-filled streets of Central. With 68 beautifully adorned rooms, The Pottinger stands out as a true luxury boutique hotel in a city that is already saturated with much larger five-star establishments. The aesthetic appeal is second to none, adorned with chinoiserie objects and oriental decor throughout the internal spaces. This is quite befitting as Pottinger Street is one of the oldest streets in the district and named after Hong Kong’s first Governor, Sir Henry Eldred Curen Pottinger.
Review of Luxury in the medina of Marrakech – Riad timila review
7th July 2022
As the riad lies on a pedestrian-only street, the riad’s butler, Ismail, arranged to meet us as we got out of our hired car. He led us through the winding streets of Marrakech and to straight to Riad Timila, where we were immediately given a quick tour and shown to our room. We stayed in the master suite called Chambre Bronze. Our room featured a seating area, fireplace, and private bathroom and shower. A moucharabie window looks out over onto the pool and courtyard below. The super king-sized bed was extremely comfortable and had Egyptian cotton sheets and goose-down pillows. Like the rest of the hotel, our room was adorned with art and decor by local artisans. Downstairs, a wall dedicated to the lucky Hand of Fatima hides the inviting dark blue plunge pool.
Review of The Middle House Shanghai review
7th July 2022
Floor to ceiling windows seem to be an important theme for each of the hotels as is the service, and most notably, the locations and architecture. Take for example The Upper House in Hong Kong, though located in the city center its infrastructure evokes discretion, minimalism and above all the characteristics of luxury living in a subtle sort of matter. These qualities are intrinsically similar to The Middle House except for its architecture. What you get at each of these houses are individualism at its core and by that we mean to say that each house has been designated an architect to design the hotels based on their own style whilst heavily incorporating the essence of the brand. Located on Shanghai’s Hongqiao side of the city, The Middle House is well advantaged when it comes to proximity from the city center whilst maintaining an air of discretion and calm. Not far from the main high way and directly in between the shopping centers, boutiques and the park within walking distance, The Middle House makes for a well-positioned luxury hotel in Shanghai.
Review of Ultimate luxury – Erosantorini hotel review
7th July 2022
Dangling on the edge of the caldera, Erosantorini is equipped with a concierge, chef, trainer and masseur to cater to your every need. Not to mention the secluded setting (two-acre plot of land) offers a pool terrace with a three-tiered infinity pool, dotted with beanbags and daybeds to sink into, a projector and screen for ‘movie nights’ and a hidden staircase leads to an underground cigar and wine cellar. So. Much. Drama. The design has a modern-take on luxury, with a monochrome palette and cubist structures that give way to vernacular architecture, Italian designer Paola Navone has kitted out the property with her bold yet energetic style; floating fireplaces, antique mirrors and heated flooring which exude a cosy bohemian vibe. The five independent suites are located on three levels, with 180-degree views of the Aegean and a private jacuzzi which is perfect for a spot of skinny-dipping.
Review of Santorini traditionalism – ikies hotel review
7th July 2022
Some believe the Caldera Island may have been one of the possible locations of the fabled island of Atlantis. Another legend has it, Euphemus, son of Poseidon, created the island following a dream where he made love to a nymph. Certainly explaining the island’s tendency of a romantic nature; one does not find a more beautiful view of the Mediterranean sea than from this Greek island, and the sunsets are the most photographed in the world. Ikies Traditional Houses is a special type of boutique hotel; a five-star complex of dug-out cave houses, it’s elegant design comprising of honeymoon suites, maisonettes, and studios located at the edge and facing the picturesque village of Oia, which guests can watch as the sun rises and sets on the private terrace. The staff are incredibly helpful - attentive but inconspicuous, which only adds to the privacy of the hotel.
Featuring The iconic Marbella Club launches a clubhouse just in...
6th July 2022
Drawing inspiration from the hotel’s bohemian beginnings in the Fifties as a purposefully low-key hangout for Prince Alfonso and his glittering A-list friends, from Brigitte Bardot to Cary Grant, this reimagining of the hotel’s original Clubhouse champions the best things in life – food and drink, fun, nature, friendship and family. Guests can take advantage of several new additions: El Patio restaurant, the beating heart of the resort, overseen by the Marbella Club’s newly appointed head chef, Sergio Arconada; Rudi’s bar, a fitting tribute to Count Rudi, the hotel’s first GM – who, at eighty-odd years old, still casts a watchful eye over proceedings; La Bodega, scene of wine tastings with head sommelier, Ángel González; bespoke private dining spaces; and an inviting central patio flanked by a hair & beauty salon, hair spa, barber, florist, gift shop, and flexible spaces for art exhibitions and pop up collaborations.
The Maldives edition – an intimate Q&A with Finolhu’s GM...
6th July 2022
Since the Seaside Management took over, what were some of the changes made to the resort? Interesting point is that Finolhu has always been colorful in personality and I think when we opened, the management company that was involved then never wanted it to be known as a party island but they opened with a huge party and then six months later, Cara Delevigne took over the whole resort, I think for her 21st birthday. That was a huge party as well and by the time I arrived, which was two weeks after Cara’s birthday, it was already regarded as the party island of the Maldives. The management company that was involved didn’t ever want us to be known as a party island but it evolved from that, and I think the greatest lesson to be learnt today about media is that no longer can we control our PR, it is controlled by the public and we’ve got to be very careful in how we present ourselves and how we communicate because they will interpret it as the way they like.
Review of The Maldives edition – Paradise of your dreams at JOALI
5th July 2022
“The best part of beauty is that which no picture can express” - Francis Bacon. Like it has taken our imagination for a ride and brought us to a destination one can only dream of - a true paradise located in the Raa Atoll, the northern part of the Maldives. One has to see it to truly understand how such beauty is able to captivate the heart so much so that even we have to admit, we’ve left our hearts in JOALI. We are certain that if you come here, that same feeling will apply to you. It is the best combination of contemporary art, absolute attention to design and detail, that feminine touch, aesthetic uniformity with of course the lush tropical vegetation and blossoming flowers and the stunning crystal clear waters at your immediate reach that you’re here and you know it’s worth it. It is not something which you need to think twice about - you’ll be catered for and looked after here, but more than that you won’t tire of the beauty and the absolute comfort you receive during your stay.
Vakkaru - A Luxurious Maldivian Paradise
5th July 2022
As most parents know, children grow up so quickly and that time together when they are young is something that should be treasured. Long haul flights aren’t fun with two children under the age of four in tow, but for me it’s 10 hours worth enduring for the end results. Pristine beaches, tropical temperatures and a top class resort.
Hotel review: Arowhon Pines in Algonquin
23rd July 2019
These were the words that encouraged us to book a stay at Arowhon Pines, the rustic but luxurious lodge and resort set deep within the Algonquin Provincial Park. We were warned ahead of time that despite being only a 3-hour drive from Toronto, there would be no cell service, WiFi, or television and we welcomed the chance to relax, unwind, and truly disconnect. The all-inclusive seasonal resort is open from the end of May until mid-October. There is a selection of private rooms with ensuite bathrooms and shared common areas and also private cabins with private decks. During our stay, we were the only guests in our shared cabin, so we enjoyed the luxury of having the common room to ourselves and set up a fire as we worked on a puzzle and played some of the board games in the living room. Our room was very charming, peaceful, and quiet, save for the sounds of wild animals in the evenings. The bathroom had Arowhon’s own eco-friendly body wash and soap, which smelled beautiful and was available for purchase at reception, while our private deck out back had comfortable lounge chairs that were perfect for catching some sun.
Featuring 24 hours in Singapore
19th July 2018
From its breathtaking skyline to infinite green spaces, glitzy shopping malls and seemingly endless array of world-class restaurants, Singapore packs a mighty punch. In fact, a mere 24 hours is just not enough time but following our carefully curated itinerary will ensure you get the most out of your whirlwind stay.
Review of Casa Angelina – a chic hideaway on the Amalfi Coast
6th July 2018
We took the hotel’s taxi shuttle from the beautiful town of Positano, where the greatest draw is the exceptional view over both Positano and Capri, and the Li Galli islands. On first impression, Casa Angelina looks like a Bond villain’s lair, half hidden within the cliff-edge and decorated in a particularly minimal fashion; almost completely white except for a few vibrant murano sculptures dotted around. The interior is crisp and sharp – perhaps not an ideal location for families with children as there are no scuff marks in sight. Thrilling Bond films aside, this hotel offers guests relaxing seclusion. Within the serene hotel there is a small, albeit picturesque, swimming pool amongst the lemon trees and a stylish terrace, overlooking the azure of the Amalfi Coast. This boutique hotel offers two other options for swimmers; a heated hydrotherapy pool in the gym, and a private beach 200 steps down from the hotel, which is much more lively.
Review of Health and wellness at the Corinthia Hotel in London
12th July 2017
The attention to detail throughout this world-class hotel is second to none. We visited to try out their new health and wellbeing package, The Brain Power Package, which promised to leave us feeling refreshed. As soon as we arrived, the doorman was already at our service, ready to whisk us into the hotel’s lobby. The first thing we noticed? Every member of staff that we met always introduced themselves first, which signifies the establishment’s friendliness and approachability. We checked ourselves in with ease as our concierge led us straight to our room via the lobby’s set of lifts (note, there are quite a few ways to get to your room via the different lifts) and then proceeded to give us a little tour of the room, which was indeed, spacious, temperature-controlled and utterly refreshing. If you are travelling with little ones, The Corinthia Hotel is nothing short of accommodating. We travelled with our 5-month old son and to our delight, a beautifully laden-out cot was prepared with the little one’s own amenities including a set of Burt’s Bees toiletries, blanket, stuffed toy elephant and a set of robe and slippers.
Featuring Bayerischer Hof: A most luxurious hotel in Munich
4th July 2017
With the hotel’s proximity being smack in the centre of the city as well as being a historical piece of the past, this five-star hotel – as we have witnessed – lives up to its high expectations. Bayerischer Hof has everything one can ask for – style, high-speed wifi, fine dining options, an outdoor sky pool, sky roof and bar with literally the best views of Munich and perhaps the only hotel that offers such expansive picture-perfect views, attention to detail and above all, hospitable staff who are at the ready when attending to a guests needs. Staying at the Bayerischer Hof is like being a part of history that dates back to the 1800’s. It was during that time when the hotel, which belonged to Anton Von Maffei, a revered railway pioneer of Bavaria at the time, commissioned the architect, Friedrich von Gärtner, to build the hotel. When Maffei passed away, a man known as Herrmann Volkhardt bought the hotel and further expanded the property. Perhaps the most interesting fact and what makes the Bayerischer Hof a true historical landmark is that when the hotel was almost completely destroyed during the war in 1944, only the hall of the mirrors was left unharmed (you can still find the original mirrors in the hall of the hotel today).
Experience Bordeaux’s booming gourmet scene
28th July 2016
The Unesco Heritage French city of Bordeaux maybe best known for its pedestrianised boulevards and restored neoclassical architecture, but it’s also a great destination for gourmands.Sybarites looking to sample Bordeaux’s exceptional dining scene would do well to check into Located in the heart of the city, opposite the majestic Bordeaux Opera House, this haute hotel boasts no fewer than five wine concierges - all of whom can provide guests with exclusive access to some of Bordeaux’s most prestigious vineyards, which are traditionally closed to the public. But it’s not all about oenophiles…. Cocktail lovers will be in seventh heaven too thanks to the hotel’s Night Beach Rooftop Bar. Boasting 360 degree postcard perfect views over the city rooftops, the bar offers an array of carefully curated signature cocktails (and appetisers) served with a side of music. Don’t miss the Harvey Wallbanger cocktail - although it arguably looks more like a delectable dessert than a drink. Made with the local (gluten free) French vodka, Pyla Vodka, (which is filtered through oceanic sand of Pyla dune of Arcachon Bay, 45 minutes away from Bordeaux), it’s summer in a glass.
Featuring Last night a DJ saved my life
20th July 2016
Turn your disc-jockey dreams into reality on a DJ Dispensary retreat “You ruin your life by tolerating it. At the end of the day you should be excited to be alive. When you settle for anything less than what you innately desire, you destroy the possibility that lives inside of you, and in that way you cheat both yourself and the world of your potential. The next Michelangelo could be sitting behind a Macbook right now writing an invoice for paperclips, because it pays the bills, or because it is comfortable, or because he can tolerate it. Do not let this happen to you.” So scribbled Bianca Sparacino in her first published work, How To Ruin Your Life Without Realising You Are. Here at Sybarite HQ we know we’re not the next Michelango but as teens we indulged in fantasies about working as a DJ, before stepping on the career treadmill and giving up on our dreams.
Velocity – The restaurant-billing app
23rd July 2015
Or ever caught yourself trying in vain to even catch a waiter’s attention that by the end of it, you are quite literally fed up and take it upon yourself to head to the till? Ok maybe not, but still, it is one of those things that you don’t want to be kept waiting for. Well, that dread of waiting for your bill to arrive at your table might no longer be an issue – for some 300 restaurants in London at least. Probably one of the best and most useful apps in town at the moment is the Velocity app , co-founded by childhood friends and ex Goldman Sachs employees, Zia Yusuf and Alex Macdonald. Of course, they were not the first to realize that restaurant-goers usually have to wait minutes till their bill arrives, but they are currently one of the few in the fintech world to deliver an app that is truly changing the way restaurants utilize mobile payment.
Featuring Open Book – meet the man behind private members’ club The...
1st July 2015
But aside from his successful endeavours and business ventures, who is Ronald Ndoro really? And more importantly, what has the journey been like for a man who continues to wear many hats in an industry known for its numerous pitfalls. Like opening a book, The Sybarite sat down with Ronald Ndoro in one of The Library’s many eclectic rooms for an intimate conversation to explore the many adventurous and artistic voyages that ultimately led him to create a private members’ club. With an insatiable appetite for books, it seemed almost eerily fitting that after his mum’s charity shop in Holloway Street closed down, the plethora of leftover books would come to good use for his project so much so that it became the starting point for the concept of The Library. Covered in floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, patrons can easily reach out and grab a volume from every possible genre and indulge in a bit of reading whilst sipping a beverage from a drinks menu that presents itself as varied as the literary selection.