If saving the planet whilst treating yourself to some serious R&R is top of your list of New Year’s resolutions, you’re in good company. Already a fave hideaway of a handful of eco-conscious A-listers, Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort and Spa, the first carbon-neutral hotel in the world, actively protects its surrounding habitat and indigenous wildlife species, and all while lavishing its guests with Hollywood-standard lifestyle luxuries.
Nestled between two National Parks and bordering the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, the pioneering Australian resort (which is based on Emirates’ highly acclaimed Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa just outside of Dubai – a personal Team Scene fave) comprises 40 individual, super-private suites, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, whilst being cosseted by the trappings of a self-indulgent (but totally eco-sound) lifestyle. Smack bang in the heart of one of the most spectacularly beautiful areas of New South Wales, and sitting at the foot of Mount Wolgan and Donkey Mountain, despite being just three hours drive away from Sydney (or a 45 minute helicopter ride, depending upon how generous your budget is), the history-steeped resort may as well be a world of it’s own. And it’s a world that we’d quite happily reside in on a permanent basis. The most basic accommodation at the resort (basic in the broadest of terms) are the Heritage Suites, which boast a private pool, stunning views of the valley beyond, luxurious wooden furnishings and period-perfect fixtures and fittings alongside the latest in entertainment and internet technologies, while thoughtful extras, such as binoculars, let you get up-close-and-personal with the wildlife (we’re talking kangaroos here!) without having to leave the deep-cushioned comfort of the sofa. Add poetry-inspiring scenery, amazing service, spectacular food and incredible opportunities to experience the beauty and fragility of Australia’s most prized wildlife, all of which you’re helping to protect during your stay, and your Antipodean adventure could be the most incredible one of your life yet.
Inside Info
The OC star Mischa Barton recently stayed in the resort’s exquisite Wollemi Suite, which has a wraparound veranda and double-sided fireplace. Rooms from Dh7,500 per night, inclusive of all meals and two activities.
Details 2600, Wolgan Road, P.O. Box 390, Lithgow, NSW 2790 | +61 2 6350 1800 | info@wolganvalley.
The Amari Watergate Hotel, Bangkok
On a shop-hop to Bangkok? Located in the bustling Pratunam neighbourhood, famous as Bangkok’s best shopping area, this is the place to enjoy the best of this truly nutty city, whether you’re in the mood for mall trawling or haggling in the markets. No time for a spending spree? No matter. If you’re literally staying for a few hours, head
to the hotel’s spectacular pool bar, which boasts truly incredible views of the city
Amari Watergate Bangkok, 847 Petchburi Road | +66 26 539 000
Prada, 360 Mall, Kuwait
If you’re a huge Prada fan (which ranks you alongside uber-hip celebs including Chloë Sevigny, Hailee Steinfeld and Elle Fanning) and happen to be popping over to Kuwait on the extended National Day weekend, you cannot miss out on a snoop around the all-new Prada boutique at Kuwait’s infamous 360 Mall. Featuring a full range of both men’s and women’s collections, the flagship store of the Italian megabrand boasts everything from swanky sunglasses to the latest bags and red carpet gowns in it’s beautiful pasteltoned fashion paradise.
360 Mall, 6th Ring Road, South Surra, Kuwait | www.prada.com
