An Architectural Statement for a Global Elite
Nestled within Gstaad’s Oberbort district – a discreet haven for royalty, visionaries and cultural icons – Chalet Oberbort occupies one of the most sought-after addresses in the Swiss Alps. The site offers panoramic mountain views, unrivalled privacy, and immediate proximity to Michelin-starred dining, luxury boutiques, and international schools. With nearby private airfields, the residence is accessible year-round for both winter and summer alpine seasons.

A Design Rooted in Landscape and Legacy
Inspired by the vernacular architecture of the region and shaped by contemporary sensibilities, the chalet’s design language blends aged timber, brushed bronze, locally quarried stone, and tactile natural textiles. The interiors reflect Unica Capital’s philosophy, prioritizing warmth, proportion and depth, where soaring ceilings and subtle lighting engage bespoke joinery, artisan finishes and carefully curated spatial rhythms to create a haven for the senses.
The architectural vision embraces both permanence and poetry: a retreat built to endure, while honoring the fleeting beauty of alpine light, snow and silence.
At Unica Capital, design and wellness are not merely aesthetic, but essential principles shaping every element of luxury living. Guided by a commitment to sustainable architecture, the use of natural and locally sourced materials, and profound respect for the landscape and privacy.
A Sanctuary of Wellness and Restoration
At Chalet Oberbort, wellness is more than a feature – it’s a way of life. Anchored by 1,500m² spa and fitness center, the chalet offers an immersive retreat where restoration is woven into the everyday. From thermal pools and snow showers to a hammam, sauna and treatment suites, each element is designed to rebalance the body and mind. This philosophy extends throughout the home, where organic gardens, indoor-outdoor.

A New Standard of Ultra-Luxury Living
Helmed by Swiss billionaire entrepreneur Byron Baciocchi, Unica Capital understands the evolving expectations of today’s most discerning clientele – those who seek more than design, but a lifestyle elevated in every dimension. At Chalet Oberbort, luxury is deeply personal. The residence combines the privacy and comfort of a home with the curated experiences of a private resort. A dedicated entertainment wing features a private cinema, Formula 1 simulator, dance floor, bowling alley, wine cellar, cigar room and ski room – all thoughtfully designed for effortless enjoyment. For Byron, luxury is about anticipating desire – and delivering it with precision, purpose and a sense of play. Chalet Oberbort – Gstaad is the embodiment of that vision.

“With Chalet Oberbort, we set out to create more than a residence – we wanted to evoke a sense of quiet majesty. It’s a space where architectural form, emotional atmosphere and material integrity come together,” said Byron Baciocchi, Chairman and CEO at Unica Capital. “It reflects our belief that true luxury is how a space makes you feel – not just what it contains.”
Features at a Glance
• 7,000m² of refined interior living across three interconnected chalets – the world’s largest private chalet
• 11 ensuite bedrooms, each with walk-in wardrobes and 8 premium staff bedrooms
• 1,500m² wellness spa featuring dual thermal pools, a hammam, alpine sauna, cold plunge, and a private treatment suites
• Dedicated entertainment wing with private cinema, Formula 1 simulator, dancefloor, bowling alley, wine cellar, cigar room and ski room
• Landscaped terraces, library and cigar lounge, tasting room, and art display spaces integrated throughout

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Hamilton Island CEO Nick Dowling said the result reflects a defining period of transformation on the island and the expanding range of experiences now available to guests.

“This is a wonderful endorsement from travelers across Australia,” Mr Dowling said. “It shows just how often Hamilton Island is on people’s minds when they start dreaming about their next holiday. Over the past year, we’ve been focused on elevating every part of the island experience – from where you stay, to where you dine, to how you explore the reef and the Whitsundays – and it’s exciting to see that resonate.

And we’re not finished… Our ambition is to keep building on this momentum and continue to remind people why Hamilton Island is Australia’s Tropical Island in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.”

The past 12 months have seen a series of major upgrades across accommodation, dining and guest experiences. In 2025, Hamilton Island welcomed The Sundays, a new boutique hotel offering laidback family-friendly luxury alongside Catseye Pool Club, a restaurant and bar helmed by acclaimed Australian culinary duo Josh and Julie Niland.

This weekend, the island’s iconic Sails restaurant and pool precinct will also reopen following a complete reimagining.  The refreshed venue introduces a contemporary take on relaxed poolside dining overlooking the Coral Sea, including the new Sails Sunbed Series, with bookable beachfront sunbeds and curated food and beverage options. The transformation also extends to Beach Club, with refreshed spaces and a new menu at the boutique adults-only beachfront retreat.

These enhancements join a growing collection of nature-based, wellness and adventure experiences, including the island’s newest signature offering, A Cultural Island Discovery with Robbie Congoo, to e-mountain biking, Reformer Pilates and a refreshed dining scene featuring the AGFG chef-hatted Bommie Restaurant, island favourite coca chu, and a wide collection of casual restaurants and bars.  Further upgrades across the island are planned for 2025 and beyond.

Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island offers a diverse range of stays for every style of tropical escape – from private luxury at qualia to boutique beachfront stays at Beach Club and The Sundays, through to relaxed getaways at the Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and self-catering holiday homes.

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A Destination Made for Romance
The powerful energy of the Iguassu Falls sets the tone for an intimate getaway. Rainbows rising from the mist, full moons illuminating the cascades, elegant hotels, and an increasingly sophisticated culinary scene all contribute to an environment ideal for two. Couples visiting Iguassu Falls can enjoy sunset dinners, exclusive attractions inside the National Park, wine tastings, casino visits, dance performances, and even scenic helicopter flights—creating the perfect backdrop for memorable moments.

Three-Day Romantic Itinerary in Iguassu Falls

Day 1 – Immersive Views of the Falls & a Special Dinner
Couples are invited to begin their journey with a relaxed check-in at one of the city’s most charming properties. Highlights include the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, located inside Iguassu National Park, and Las Hotel Boutique, an intimate retreat featuring 21 elegant bungalows.

A walk through the Iguassu National Park allows visitors to experience the Falls from multiple viewpoints, surrounded by mist and natural beauty. On Saturdays, partners seeking an elevated experience can join Céu das Cataratas (Sky of the Falls), a stargazing activity held under a pristine night sky right beside the waterfalls.

The evening continues with a romantic dinner at La Rueda 1975 in Puerto Iguazú, known for river fish specialties, handcrafted pastas, premium Argentinian-style grilled cuts, and an exceptional wine list of 700 labels.

Day 2 – Helicopter Views, Nature Encounters & a Tri-Border Sunset
The day begins with a thrilling helicopter flight over the Falls—an unforgettable perspective of one of the world’s great natural wonders. In the afternoon, couples can explore the Bird Park, home to flamingos, macaws, toucans, and more than 1,400 birds in a preserved Atlantic Forest environment.

As the sun sets, the Three Borders Landmark offers a panoramic view of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, accompanied by cultural dance and music performances held from Tuesday to Sunday. For an even more intimate evening, a sunset catamaran cruise along the Paraná and Iguassu rivers includes dinner on board while navigating the tri-border region.

Day 3 – The Surprisingly Romantic Side of Itaipu
The itinerary concludes with a visit to the Itaipu Dam, a site known for its monumental scale and unexpectedly romantic appeal. Couples can enjoy the panoramic tour of the dam, followed by a walk through the Bela Vista Biological Refuge, featuring native wildlife encounters, a 2 km trail, and opportunities for tree planting.

At night, the iconic Rafain Churrascaria Show brings together an extensive buffet and vibrant performances representing nine Latin American countries, providing a celebratory finale to the trip.

For More Information

Travelers interested in planning a romantic getaway to Iguassu Falls can explore additional details on the destination’s official website and social media channels on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.

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After a five-year hiatus, Ice Castles returns to Edmonton in a new downtown location at Fan Park in January 2026. This awe-inspiring attraction will feature frozen tunnels, archways, caverns, slides, and a one-acre playground—sculpted entirely from ice. Guests can explore hand-placed icicle formations, race down ice slides, and crawl through icy passageways in one of Edmonton’s most enchanting winter experiences.

From January 17–28, 2026, Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival brings the Alberta Avenue District to life with ice sculptures, art, dance, and culinary experiences inspired by Ukrainian, French-Canadian, and Indigenous cultures. The family-friendly celebration showcases Edmonton’s diversity through creative storytelling and interactive winter activities.

Winterruption YEG follows from January 21–25, 2026, filling downtown venues with live performances spanning music, comedy, and art. Known for its inclusive and energetic atmosphere, the festival will feature artists including Nap Eyes, Reignwolf, Dead Ghosts, and The Secret Beach, creating an engaging mid-winter celebration for all.

From January 28–31, 2026, Flying Canoë Volant will illuminate Mill Creek Ravine and Edmonton’s French Quarter with installations and performances inspired by the legend of the Flying Canoe and Métis, First Nations, and French Canadian traditions. The event invites visitors to experience Edmonton’s cultural history under the stars in one of the city’s most scenic settings.

The season continues with the Silver Skate Festival, taking place February 6–16, 2026, in Laurier Park. Celebrating its 35th anniversary, Edmonton’s longest-running winter festival combines arts, culture, recreation, and sport. Visitors can skate along the park’s frozen pathways, view the Snow Sculpture Garden, explore the Folk Trail, and enjoy a full schedule of outdoor programming at this free ten-day event.

From February 13–15, 2026, the Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival invites skiers of all levels to take part in one of Canada’s most storied Nordic skiing events. The annual loppet honours the spirit of endurance and adventure, drawing participants from across the country to experience the exhilaration of cross-country skiing in Alberta’s winter landscape.

The winter season concludes with the UIAA Ice Climbing World Championships & YEG Ice Fest from February 27–March 1, 2026, at Louise McKinney Park. This major international competition will feature elite athletes scaling an 18-metre climbing structure, alongside community challenges, clinics, gear demos, and a winter market.

Together, these festivals underscore Edmonton’s commitment to embracing the season and creating experiences that celebrate art, sport, and cultural connection. For more information about Edmonton’s winter festivals and events, visit ExploreEdmonton.com/festivalcity.

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Rooted in Andaz’s philosophy of honoring the distinct spirit of each destination, the series, developed in collaboration with Roadbook, invites artists to reimagine the emotional and sensory essence of their cities, translating landscape, culture, and atmosphere into visual form. Each installation becomes a dialogue between artist and environment, extending beyond the gallery to engage guests and locals alike.

To honor the exhibition, each chosen artist will host an intimate dinner at the property. Guests from across the fields of art, fashion, and music will come together for a spirited evening of conversation and connection. The decor and menu will draw inspiration from both each city’s natural landscape and artist’s aesthetic.

“At its heart, Andaz hotels are about connection between people, places, and the cultures that surround them. Crafting New Perspectives invites us to see the world through the eyes of creative minds who bring local stories to life, reminding us that inspiration is everywhere. We just have to be curious enough to see it.” Says Amar Lalvani, President and Creative Director, The Lifestyle Group, Hyatt.

Following the dinner, the exhibition will then be displayed at the property for four weeks.

Crafting New Perspectives will be debuting this Fall at the following properties:

●  Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalow (11th November until 8th December 2025): Ceramist Rika Kova, whose sculptural work capturing the raw textures and meditative tones of the Sonoran Desert

●  Andaz Savannah (18th November until 15th December 2025): Trish Andersen [DM4] will transform the property with her tactile, color-rich expressions inspired by the city’s natural rhythms

●  Andaz Bangkok (11th February until 11th March 2026): Collage artist Nakrob Moonmanas [DM5] fuses heritage and modernity in a vibrant visual narrative that mirrors the city’s dynamic contrasts.

●  Andaz Lisbon (Spring 2026)

More than an exhibition series, Crafting New Perspectives redefines how hospitality can nurture and showcase creativity. Each Andaz property serves as a living canvas, where art doesn’t just hang on walls but lives in the heart of the experience.

Through these installations, Andaz hotels continue to shape a new model for culturally rooted travel, one that celebrates and supports local creative talent, and invites guests to see the world through a fresh, imaginative lens.

The post Andaz Launches Crafting New Perspectives, A Global Series appeared first on The Hotel Guide.

The journey begins with the Melukat ritual, a sacred Balinese water purification ceremony believed to cleanse the body, mind, and spirit. Flowing water from Bali’s blessed springs symbolizes emotional release and renewal — washing away negativity and restoring inner clarity.

Guests are then honored with the Tridatu blessing, where three sacred threads — red, white, and black — are gently tied around the wrist. Each color represents divine balance in Balinese philosophy: creation, preservation, and transformation. This symbolic gesture offers spiritual protection and harmony.

The experience continues with the Liang Manah massage, meaning happiness in Balinese. Incorporating traditional mepijet techniques — rhythmic, flowing strokes passed down through generations — this signature massage releases tension, enhances circulation, and awakens a joyful state of balance. The journey concludes with a rejuvenating botanical facial, using locally sourced natural ingredients to restore radiance and vitality.

The Ocean Blessing Journey is more than a spa treatment — it is a soulful ritual that unites the body, mind, and spirit. Nestled by the ocean, Kahyangan Spa invites guests to embrace the island’s sacred energy and experience the true art of Balinese healing at The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa.

Book your experience:

Visit www.theseminyak.com
Follow on Instagram: @theseminyakbeachresort
Email: reservations@theseminyak.com

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Step into a spellbinding scene straight out of a fantasy world, an immersive setup that brings magic to life. Picture yourself beneath a grand chandelier, surrounded by hanging candles and enchanted décor in a majestic setting. Every detail invites you into a world where wonder awaits at every turn.

From December 20 to 31, begin your celebration at the award-winning Nampu Japanese Restaurant with Yukigafuru, a premium Teppanyaki experience featuring authentic Japanese flavors. Complement this with a sake pairing by Ms. Haruka Uemura, an International Sake Sommelier from Tokyo. Alternatively, savor a 5-course set menu showcasing the finest ocean-to-table ingredients in Shirayukihime.

Delight in the Italian culinary artistry at Salsa Verde with a specially curated 4-course set menu, elevated by an exclusive Italian wine pairing. At Watercourt, the international restaurant, enjoy a thoughtfully crafted 4-course set menu complemented by exquisite wine pairings.

Special festive highlights on selected days, where you can feast on traditional Indonesian dishes like Babi Guling at the famous Pasar Senggol, accompanied by captivating cultural performances including the Kecak and Fire Dance.

On December 25, join us for a Christmas Delight featuring holiday classics like succulent Roasted Turkey and live band entertainment, perfectly paired with a curated selection of beverages.

Celebrate the Magical Feast dinner on December 24, 28, and 31 with a magical-themed buffet, potion-inspired drinks, and live entertainment in a spellbinding setting.

Ring in the new year with the New Year’s Eve Soiree at Veranda Lounge or the lively New Year’s Eve Bash in the Lobby on December 31. Enjoy the enchanting melodies of live music throughout the night, then bid farewell to 2025 with dazzling fireworks along Nusa Dua’s longest beach shore. Raise a glass of sparkling drinks and dance to electrifying DJ beats, all in the company of your loved ones.

Indulge in culinary journey starting from IDR 550.000++ per person. Complete your family vacation with Whimsical Wonders featuring Destive Art & Carft Fun, a charming and creative experience crafted especially for kids. Enjoy 30% off exclusively for all-inclusive guests, along with exclusive benefits for the entire family.

Where tropical enchantment blends seamlessly with magical indulgence, celebrate and create timeless New Year memories at Grand Hyatt Bali.

For more information or to reserve your table, please send your inquiries to (WhatsApp) +6285-5390-3658 or email to balgh-dining.reservation@hyatt.com.

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A Five-Star Beachfront Resort in the Heart of Seminyak

Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and panoramic ocean views, The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa offers a refined Bali beachfront experience through its spacious and luxurious rooms, ocean-view suites, and private pool villas. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed with natural materials, soothing tones, and contemporary touches to reflect the island’s effortless charm.

Ideally located in the heart of Seminyak’s premier lifestyle district, the resort provides easy access to Bali’s best beach clubs, boutiques, and dining venues — while maintaining the serenity of a private beachfront retreat. Guests can enjoy the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure in one of the most sought-after destinations in Bali.

The Essence of Balinese Serenity

From sunrise yoga to sunset strolls, every moment at The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa celebrates the spirit of Bali. Guests can rejuvenate at Kahyangan Spa, enjoy wellness and cultural experiences, or simply unwind by the infinity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast at Santan Restaurant, where open-sided pavilions surrounded by ponds and tropical greenery set the perfect morning mood. The menu features fresh tropical fruits, premium pastries, and a range of international and Asian favorites, beautifully capturing the diversity of global flavors in a serene Balinese setting.

For a relaxed afternoon or a romantic evening as the sunset paints the sky, Sanje Restaurant & Lounge offers a truly scenic dining experience. Linked by twin humpback bridges, this alfresco venue opens to the splendid panorama of the Indian Ocean—perched above Seminyak Beach and beside a serene reflective pool. The atmosphere blends comfort and elegance, while Sanje’s breezy cocktail lounge invites you to unwind with a mojito or coconut martini. The menu presents delectable Mediterranean-inspired dishes infused with local Balinese flavors as vibrant as the island itself.

Your Paradise Awaits

This season, The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa invites travelers to indulge in the Paradise Retreat Package — a limited-time offer crafted for those seeking the ultimate luxury beachfront getaway in Bali. The package includes daily breakfast, a two-course dining experience, spa treatments, airport transfers, and exclusive resort benefits.

For discerning travelers searching for a five-star beachfront resort in Seminyak, The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa is where timeless elegance meets the beauty of Bali’s coastline — an unforgettable escape where every moment feels like paradise.

For Reservations and More Information:

Visit www.theseminyak.com

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 Small Luxury Hotels of the World

This new gateway to the Thermal Resort marks the latest milestone in Tabacón’s broader vision to enhance every aspect of the experience through luxury, wellness, and sustainability. More than an architectural feature, it redefines how guests begin their connection with the natural world and Costa Rica’s only natural thermal river born at the base of the Arenal Volcano. This is where the signature Tabacón experience begins: a living river surrounded by tropical gardens, rainforest beauty, open-air spaces inspired by local artistry, and the sensory invitation to slow down and reconnect in these thermal waters.

Designed by Taller KEN, the new facilities connect the architecture with nature, and spaces flow with the forest’s topography. Key elements are crafted from river and volcanic stone from San Ramón, as well as fallen Guanacaste, teak, and cenizaro woods – each embodying the textures of the surrounding landscape. The project celebrates Costa Rican artistry through collaborations with Oldemar Rodríguez, who carved volcanic and river stones; Freddy Pérez, a third-generation woodworker blending wood and stone; Bernardo Urbina, whose contemporary furniture bridges design and nature; and Jonathan Barrantes, known for his intricate wood sculptures inspired by local flora and fauna. Together, their work transforms the space into a living expression of Tabacón’s inimitable beauty.

“Tabacón offers what no other resort can — a living thermal river and a sense of place that is entirely Costa Rican,” says Andrey Gomez, General Manager of Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa.

Since 2022, Tabacón has invested $7 million USD in a series of strategic enhancements that strengthen the  resort’s leadership in sustainable luxury. These include the complete redesign of all guest rooms and suites, the construction of a new culinary production kitchen dedicated to preparing every dish entirely in-house ensuring full control over flavor, freshness, and artisanal quality upgrades to the thermal pool areas, and the completion of the Arrival Experience with 2,253m2 (24,251ft2) of new infrastructure on the site of the former conference facilities. This investment strategy will continue into 2026, further elevating the guest journey in alignment with evolving expectations and the brand’s core pillars of luxury, wellness, and sustainability.

Nestled at the base of Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano, Tabacón offers one of the world’s most authentic and naturally immersive luxury experiences. With 105 rooms and suites, the resort features mineral-rich thermal pools fed by a river that flows directly from the volcano itself. Guests enjoy open-air wellness experiences, rainforest surroundings, and cuisine crafted entirely in-house with local ingredients. Tabacón’s philosophy is rooted in authenticity: the luxury of being in a place where nature is not only present, but alive and flowing.

The resort’s Legacy of Regeneration guides every decision — from low-impact construction to reforestation programs and biodiversity protection. Through this philosophy, Tabacón also supports the local community with initiatives that include partnerships with nearby schools, cultural education programs, and job creation that prioritizes local talent. Sustainability is not just a value, but an operating principle that shapes every  detail of the guest experience.

For more information and to book, visit www.tabacon.com.

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