&Beyond Nxabega Camp, Botswana
This intimate camp consists of just three tents and gives you a front row seat in the middle of nature, in the middle of the wilderness of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, this remote region is known for its virtually pristine wetlands and annual floods that transform the landscape into a wetland playground for wildlife. Despite being surrounded by bushes, the tents, which sleep two people, come with super king-size beds, power showers and fast Wi-Fi. Meanwhile, daily game drives and walking expeditions bring guests close to elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes and hippos. Because wildlife roams freely, guests should follow the trails and keep their eyes open during the day, and at night guides escort everyone to their tent, which is zipped up.
USP This is a true jungle escape where your neighbors have four legs.
Who will love it Older families – children must be over 12 years old – solo travelers and couples.
Costs Tents from £1,055 per night (special rates are available all year round so it’s worth keeping an eye on the offers), andbeyond.com
The Banyan Tree, Bali
If your idea of paradise would be waking up high above a jungle, the Banyan Tree resort in Buahan, Bali should be at the top of the list. Of the 16 adults-only one-bedroom (or bales as they are known) villas, the Seven Peaks offering offers uninterrupted views of the namesake mountains, tropical rainforest and winding rivers, as well as a private plunge pool. The hotel takes the ‘no walls, no doors’ concept literally, with just a curtain separating you from the jungle. It’s wonderfully compelling, although those fearful of the odd lizard or beetle making its home run may want to look away now.
USP Jungle life – with five-star treatment.
Who will love it Adventurers and people in need of a digital detox.
Costs Villas from around £700 per night, banyantree.com
The Twenty-Two, London
From the outside, this Mayfair hotel looks like a traditional Edwardian mansion. Inside, things are considerably more flamboyant. Founded in 2022 by former Blake’s hotel owner Navid Mirtorabi and billionaire Newcastle United co-owner Jamie Reuben, this 31-room establishment, restaurant and private members club is a wow-factor fusion of art deco opulence and 18th-century France. Think of the elaborate wall coverings, black and white marble floors and velvet curtains that wouldn’t look out of place in Versailles – all probably best appreciated before the cocktails at the bar, rather than after. Tom Cruise, Kylie Jenner and Jeff Bezos are just some of the famous faces spotted here.
USP It’s the ultimate glamorous night out – you can go from chic bar to beautiful bedroom without having to find a taxi.
Who will love it Couples and of course partygoers.
Costs Rooms from £725 per night, thetwentytwo.com
Cromlix, Scotland
This grand country house near Dunblane in Scotland has had quite an eventful life. Originally built in 1874 by Captain Arthur Drummond as Cromlix Cottage, it was destroyed by fire just four years later. It was rebuilt in 1880 and converted into a luxury hotel in 1981. In 2013, tennis star Andy Murray and his wife Kim bought it and used it as a wedding venue two years later. In 2023, the couple opened it as a hotel. This intimate 20-room retreat offers a taste of the Highlands without sacrificing the comfort of a country house stay. Set in 34 hectares of woodland and landscaped gardens, Cromlix has its own chapel and lochan, adding to the secluded, old Scottish feel. Each bedroom has a unique character, with antique Scottish furniture and views over the gardens and surrounding countryside. And of course there’s a tennis court for guests who feel like channeling their inner Wimbledon champion.
USP The humble brag of saying you stayed at Andy Murray’s.
Who will love it Country house romantics and tennis fans.
Costs From £445 per night, cromlix.com
The Silk Lakehouse, China
Located on the northern shore of Hangzhou’s West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Silk Lakehouse combines the grandeur of a traditional silk merchant’s house with a more playful, maximalist style. Opt for rich silks, handcrafted furnishings, colorful murals and bold hues, with many rooms and suites overlooking the misty lake and surrounding hills. Hosts can arrange everything from cultural experiences and art sessions to wellness activities, while an indoor pool is available once you’ve admired enough temples and teahouses.
USP It has the kind of lake view that makes sightseeing quite redundant.
Who will love it Culture lovers and romantics.
Costs From around £440 per night, shangri-la.com
