A curated list of getaways for every type of globetrotter
History fans: Cartagena, Colombia
The port city merges an illustrious cultural heritage with modern liveliness as it welcomes the opening of Four Seasons Hotels and Residences Cartagena in the colourful Getsemani neighbourhood. The establishment is located among a collection of restored landmarks, and history buffs will be thrilled by remnants of the 16th-century San Francisco cloister and the 1920s Beaux-Arts masterpiece Club Cartagena. The property’s intricate stone and woodwork exudes eclectic and architectural elegance. For entertainment, guests can join an exclusive introductory session in salsa dancing led by professionals to feel the rhythms of the country’s well-established Latin music scene. After a long day of exploring the Walled City, a Unesco World Heritage Site, travellers can bed down in one of 131 rooms designed with either contemporary charm or colonial décor. (fourseasons.com)
Nature lovers: Sabah, Malaysia
See also: First time lucky
Debuting in November, Club Med Borneo is an eco-luxury getaway tucked in the untouched landscapes of Sabah. Bordered by dense jungle and the South China Sea, the establishment blends seamlessly with the environment. Its architecture takes a page out of Borneo’s unique rumah rungus longhouses, complete with timber walls, woven textures and handcrafted details. Pick from one of 400 rooms to unwind in nature, or opt for the Mutiara Exclusive Collection space for peak privacy. Dubbed a “resort within a resort”, this accommodation comes with a personal lounge, swimming pool and special bar access. Those wanting to take in the beauty of Kuala Penyu’s coastline can join guided trips organised by Club Med. A jaunt to the Mari Mari Cultural Village gives insight into indigenous life, while river cruises get you up close with local fauna. (clubmed.com.my)
Business travellers: Johor Bahru, Malaysia
See also: Travellers flying out of Singapore limited to two power banks
The words “work trip” are almost always synonymous with rushed schedules, endless headaches and weary feet. The newest Four Points by Sheraton Johor Bahru in Bandar Seri Alam seeks to alleviate every worry for those visiting the state. Located 30 minutes away from the city centre, the hotel provides convenient access to bustling production and logistics hubs such as the Pasir Gudang Industrial Estate and Tanjung Langsat Port. Its 150 rooms pair reliable essentials with stylish comfort, with premium offerings on the upper floors. Travelling in a group? Pick the three-bedroom duplex that allows for shared time without compromising on precious privacy. The evening sees a Sheraton staple come to life: The Mesh Bar invites guests to indulge in curated craft beers from its Best Brews programme as well as cocktails and light bites. (marriott.com)
Beachside buffs: Corfu, Greece
Accepting reservations from Aug 1 onwards, Conrad Corfu is the ideal destination for seaside guests seeking sun-drenched landscapes and lapping waves. Its immediacy as an opulent coastal sanctuary is perfected by a light-filled atrium, colonnaded Palladiana-style marble walkways and limestone flooring. The majority of the 136 lodgings feature ocean-facing views, their palette of terracotta, stone and lush greenery evoking a sense of harmony and serenity. Taking a dip in the Aqua Piazza lagoon, the resort’s signature social rendezvous spot, is recommended before meandering towards the soft golden sands of the nearby 200m private beach. In pairing the picturesque Ionian horizon with culinary indulgence, the Ulysseas Seaside Restaurant invites guests to satiate their cravings, providing casual dining in the daytime and a refined seafood spread at night. (hilton.com)
Dog parents: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Planning a vacation is exciting but dropping off your four-legged friends at a pet hotel always tugs at the heartstrings. Historic luxury spot Hodelpa Nicolás de Ovando, located in Las Damas street, now allows beloved Fido to come along on a trip to explore the Unesco World Heritage Site. General manager José Hernández noted that more guests see their pets as family, and sought to make travel more inclusive. Pups must weigh no more than 10kg and have vaccination certificates. Upon arrival, guests get a welcome kit with snacks, a pet bed and bowls to help animals settle in. Special areas have been designated to help dogs stretch their legs after a long flight, while the hotel also offers walking services if owners are out and about. (hodelpa.com)
