The Dictator of Taste is Schooling You
Every stop-in on this list has been selected independently by our editor and written by her – a seasoned Travel Writer who has reasonably explored the destination and has stayed at that property. When choosing hotels, our editor considers both luxury properties and boutique and lesser-known boltholes that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination.
While sometimes hosted by the hotel, the reviews are entirely from the perspective and experience of our Travel Writer, who is always looking for decent hygiene and safety protocols and action, beautiful design, a great location, and warm service—as well as sustainability principles enacted with no greenwashing agenda!
Entertainment & the Arts
Health & wellness
Pub & Nightlife
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What’s on
Set in the heart of Franschhoek village, Chapter House Boutique Hotel proves that the best luxury stays aren’t always the busiest.
My latest Slow Travel Gem explores why this historic Living Journey Collection property is best appreciated one slow stroll, one memorable meal and one quiet morning at a time.
The new luxury is not always about doing more. Sometimes, it is about sleeping deeper, scrolling less, and rediscovering silence. At Thyme & Tide in Yzerfontein, the Beach House Collection villa transforms a coastal getaway into a true sleepcation – where ocean views, thoughtful design, privacy and the rhythm of the Atlantic invite you to slow down.
A cinematic sleepcation at Lanzerac Hotel & Spa in Stellenbosch – where heritage wine estate living, spa rituals, and mountain weather combine into one of South Africa’s most quietly restorative luxury escapes.
Dreaming of proper rest in Cape Town?
This design-led review of Cape Grace Hotel explores the rise of the luxury sleepcation – from marina-view suites and restorative spa rituals to Heirloom Restaurant and the quietly indulgent rhythm of waterfront living.
A cinematic look at why modern luxury travellers are increasingly choosing rest over rush.
Your budget may be more economical than ever, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy those instant upgrades, free drinks, and design-savvy stays around the world.
Let me usher you through the littest, lesser-known hotel brands & stays worth checking out before you firm up those bookings too early…