10 Best luxury lodges in the world for your dream holiday splurge
FOR A ROMANTIC GETAWAY
The Lindis, New Zealand
Longing to trade the everyday for the extraordinary? This lodge in New Zealand's dramatic high country hits the spot. Take your activities list to the next level with a private caviar experience (because why not?), an exhilarating heli-ski tour or a gourmet Champagne picnic for two. Surrounded by a mesmerising landscape of mountains and wild tundra, The Lindis caters to a maximum of just 15 guests, so your romantic moments won't be gate-crashed by a crowd. If your budget is tight, the compact, standalone accommodation located away from the main lodge is cheaper and includes similar amenities to the more expensive rooms.
Thelindisgroup.com
FOR MULTIGENERATIONAL GROUPS
Saffire Freycinet, Australia
Dinner is usually an elegant affair at Saffire Freycinet, but some guests snarl and grunt, shoving each other out of the way to reach the most delectable pieces of meat. Given how good Saffire's food is, the enthusiasm of the Tasmanian Devils in the one-hectare devil conservation enclosure at Saffire is no surprise. Touring the facility is one of a smorgasbord of included activities for guests of all ages. Fancy yourself as a budding apiarist? Sign up for a beekeepers' experience, or you could join a guided hike through Freycinet National Park. For groups with a competitive spirit (or who just want to feel like Robin Hood), archery awaits.
saffire-freycinet.com.au
Saffire Freycinet has its own Tasmanian Devil enclosure as part of its experiences. Photo / Saffire Freycinet
FOR AN EXPERIENTIAL STAY
Ilimanaq Lodge, Greenland
Instead of counting sheep to help you sleep, you can count icebergs under the midnight sun at Ilimanaq Lodge, which sits on the Unesco-listed Ilulissat Icefiord. Some of the country's oldest buildings have been beautifully restored to house the restaurant and reception area, and there is a focus on solar power and sustainability. Cultural immersion forms a major part of this lodge experience, and guests are warmly welcomed by those in the tiny surrounding town with a population of around 50 people. If you want to truly learn about Greenland, Ilimanaq Lodge offers a deep dive into the local way of life.
Worldofgreenland.com
Dinner at the Ilimanaq Lodge restaurant. Photo / World of Greenland
FOR EXPLORING OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Shipwreck Lodge, Namibia
Set yourself adrift on the sands of Namibia's Skeleton Coast at Shipwreck Lodge, a whimsical collection of boat-style villas facing the distant Atlantic Ocean. You won't mind being 'shipwrecked' at this eco-conscious accommodation, which is popular with travellers who enjoy getting off the beaten track, and photographers who come here to capture the dramatic, ever-shifting sand dunes and starlit skies. The main lodge is a hub for socialising, sundowners and swapping tales of the day's adventures, from tours of the Mowe Bay seal colony to exploring the historic shipwrecks that give this extraordinary place its name.
shipwrecklodge.com.na
Shipwreck Lodge. Photo / Shipwreck Lodge
FOR NATURE AND CULTURE
Tenkū no Mori, Japan
Forget your worries (and your wardrobe) at Tenkū no Mori on Kyushu Island, where each of the five secluded villas has its own traditional Japanese onsen. Accommodation is spread across 60ha of wilderness so you can enjoy an authentic, au naturel bathing experience away from prying eyes. It's just you, soothing warm water, the whispers of nature and some squirrels. Add private dining while a flowing river washes your ankles, and you'll get the essence of Tenkū, which takes the Japanese ethos of connection to the environment to the next level.
tenku-jp.com
Tenku No Mori. Photo / Tenku No Mori
FOR THE ECO-CONSCIOUS
Shinta Mani Mustang, Nepal
The beauty of Nepal's dramatic jagged peaks might literally take your breath away at Shinta Mani Mustang, as the lodge sits at 3000m above sea level. Each of the 29 rooms features mountain views, and the famous aesthetic of acclaimed hotel designer Bill Bensley. Private tours immerse you in the Nepalese way of life, with activities like hikes, lunch at a local's house and visiting a hilltop monastery, and actively support the local community. If you've been trying to justify a longer lodge stay, this one has a five-night minimum, starting at $15,795 for two.
Shintamanimustang.com
Shinta Mani Mustang exterior. Photo / Shinta Mani Mustang
FOR ACTIVE FAMILIES
Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort, British Columbia
Grab your kids and prepare to get wild at the family-owned Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort in the Great Bear Rainforest, with a curated range of adventurous activities led by local guides. Start your day with a kayak trip or the thrill of bear spotting (from a safe distance, of course), followed by a soak in a hot tub next to a roaring waterfall or a sauna on the lake if your kids are older. With no mobile phone reception and limited Wi-Fi, this lodge also includes actual conversations, shared laughter and memories that'll last a lifetime.
Nimmobay.com
Nimmo Bay floating hot tub. Photo / Jeremy Koreski
FOR FINDING INNER PEACE
Amankora Paro, Bhutan
Embrace the spirituality and beauty of Bhutan at Amankora Paro, which is a 20-minute drive from the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery. The lodge's design pays tribute to Bhutan's rich heritage, mirroring the traditional fortresses that punctuate the dramatic landscape. Speaking of the landscape, you'll dine with an uninterrupted view of Drukgyel Dzong, one of the country's most celebrated archaeological treasures. Dishes span Western, Indian and Bhutanese cuisine, and tours of a nearby market provide an insight into the local food. Hiking to the awe-inspiring Tiger's Nest Monastery is as rewarding for the soul as it is challenging for the legs.
Aman.com
Amankora Paro is a short drive from Bhutan's iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery. Photo / Amankora
FOR A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME SPLURGE
COMO Laucala Island, Fiji
You know that feeling when you're on holiday and you're constantly, subtly, tallying up the cost of things? 'If I have one more of those fancy cocktails, is it really worth it?' Well, at COMO Laucala Island, you can bid farewell to such trivial concerns as everything is included. Given a stay costs around $65,000 for four nights for two, it would want to be. There are three villa categories, with Plateau being the most affordable (relatively speaking), followed by Plantation and Seagrass. The latter are further from the restaurant and other facilities, but those extra steps are your ticket to direct beach access and a prime cliff-edge location.
comohotels.com
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NZ Herald
6 days ago
- NZ Herald
Eight of the cheapest Asian city break destinations
Ipoh, Malaysia Unlike Malaysia's capital, Ipoh, a pocket-sized city in northwestern Malaysia, remains wonderfully affordable – double rooms in many of its quaint boutique hotels cost under $53 a night, and guided tours of the limestone caves surrounding the city start at around $33. We grilled Janice Young, co-founder of Explore Ipoh, about her favourite admission-free spots. 'Han Chin Pet Soo is a small heritage museum run by volunteers, and the Kong Fook Ngam cave temple has a massive tunnel system,' says Janice, who recommends fuelling up on her favourite snack. 'Ipoh is famous for taufu fa – a cheap, simple dessert comprising a block of tofu in sweet syrup,' she says. In Ipoh, a heritage museum is run entirely by local volunteers. Photo / Unsplash Bangkok, Thailand Despite being Thailand's capital, Bangkok can be surprisingly cheap. We're huge fans of both its BTS Skytrain and MRT railway networks (fares start from around $0.71), and its river taxis offer great value, too – single fares on the Chao Phraya Express Boat start from $0.81. And while the city has numerous observatories from which to take in the view, they often charge hefty fees. Suzy at Co Van Kessel, which offers guided cycling tours of Chinatown, suggests an alternative approach. 'Head to the top floor of the ICONSIAM mall for stunning views over Chao Phraya River,' she says. 'It's free, and a great spot for photos, especially at sunset.' As for Suzy's go-to snack for travellers on a budget? 'Try khanom buang – crispy pancakes. These delicious little treats, often made with shredded coconut, cost just a few baht.' Want a big city adventure on a shoestring? These Asian destinations have you covered. Photo / Unsplash Hoi An, Vietnam Cheaper and less crowded than Ho Chi Minh, canal-streaked Hoi An, on Vietnam's south-central coastline, is a Unesco-listed gem with a rich history and a beautifully preserved old town. Nothing beats a stroll along its cobbled laneways, illuminated by Chinese lanterns and lined with ancient buildings that date back to its heyday as a trading port. Food, accommodation and souvenirs here are incredibly cheap, and one of the best spots for retail therapy is the Nguyen Hoang Street night market, where you can feast on local snacks such as banh xoai (mango cake) and stock up on souvenirs – we recommend the beautiful ceramic teapots. Hoi An. Photo / Unsplash Busan, South Korea This coastal city might not be on many travellers' radars – unlike Seoul – but that's precisely the reason it's so much cheaper. It's another place where public transport deserves a shout-out – a one-day pass for its fantastic metro system costs just $7. It's also packed with historic sites, many of which are free to visit. 'Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is one of Korea's few seaside temples, with serene Buddhist architecture and sweeping views of the East Sea,' says tour guide Dylan Kim from 'It's free to enter and it's especially picturesque at sunrise. Then there's Gamcheon Culture Village, a colourful hillside village famous for its murals and quaint alleyways. It's a great spot for photography.' Hanoi, Vietnam Full disclosure – as Vietnam's capital city, there are plenty of opportunities to splash the cash here, but sticking to a budget here is surprisingly easy. One reason is its size – this is one of Asia's most walkable capitals, much smaller and easier to navigate than Ho Chi Minh, and with a logical layout and numerous landmarks which make it easy to find your bearings. Two of our favourite areas include the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. 'Hoan Kiem Lake is a lively yet peaceful area in the heart of the city,' says Chloe from Hanoi Local Tours. 'There are lots of free local performances, and it's a great spot for people-watching. In the Old Quarter, you'll find dozens of food stalls serving food, which is delicious, authentic and incredibly affordable. Hanoi in Vietnam. Photo / Frida Aguilar Estrada on Unsplash Jakarta, Indonesia One of the main reasons Jakarta makes the cut is its wonderfully cheap public transport. 'Hop on the MRT or on a TransJakarta bus – these buses are clean, cool, and ridiculously cheap,' says Wibi Hananto, a manager at our favourite boutique crash-pad, 25hours Hotel The Oddbird. 'They'll take you across the city without eating into your satay fund. There's simply no need to splurge on rideshares when Jakarta's public transport is this easy.' Its markets are another reason Jakarta is a hit with budget travellers. 'Blok M Square and Santa Modern Market are where the good stuff's at,' says Wibi. 'Think vintage finds and street food, and stalls that double as great Instagram backdrops.' As for the go-to snack? Kerak Telor – an old-school favourite made with sticky rice, egg, coconut, and a sprinkle of crispy shallots. Singapore. Photo / Unsplash Singapore Finally, a wildcard entry, but one we feel is justified. Yes, Singapore is, in many ways, one of Asia's most expensive urban destinations, although it can also be much more affordable than many realise. Take its super cheap hawker centres, home to Michelin guide-listed street food vendors, or its great bike share scheme, Hello Ride. Single journeys on these sky-blue bikes start from $0.64. As for where to head for some free fun? Peck Lin, co-founder of Singaporean ice cream brand Udders, has some advice. 'Top on my list would be the Singapore Botanic Gardens,' says Peck. 'It's an admission-free, Unesco-listed oasis in downtown Singapore, metres from Orchard Rd. I also love the waterfront Esplanade area for the free performances, especially during weekends.' Finally, if you love sport, prepare to be shocked by the cost of tickets for the Singapore GP, in October. A three-day grandstand pass for the event starts from $678, and to put that into perspective, a three-day general entry ticket for Silverstone starts at $846.
NZ Herald
23-07-2025
- NZ Herald
10 Best luxury lodges in the world for your dream holiday splurge
Tierra Patagonia. Photo / Tierra Patagonia FOR A ROMANTIC GETAWAY The Lindis, New Zealand Longing to trade the everyday for the extraordinary? This lodge in New Zealand's dramatic high country hits the spot. Take your activities list to the next level with a private caviar experience (because why not?), an exhilarating heli-ski tour or a gourmet Champagne picnic for two. Surrounded by a mesmerising landscape of mountains and wild tundra, The Lindis caters to a maximum of just 15 guests, so your romantic moments won't be gate-crashed by a crowd. If your budget is tight, the compact, standalone accommodation located away from the main lodge is cheaper and includes similar amenities to the more expensive rooms. FOR MULTIGENERATIONAL GROUPS Saffire Freycinet, Australia Dinner is usually an elegant affair at Saffire Freycinet, but some guests snarl and grunt, shoving each other out of the way to reach the most delectable pieces of meat. Given how good Saffire's food is, the enthusiasm of the Tasmanian Devils in the one-hectare devil conservation enclosure at Saffire is no surprise. Touring the facility is one of a smorgasbord of included activities for guests of all ages. Fancy yourself as a budding apiarist? Sign up for a beekeepers' experience, or you could join a guided hike through Freycinet National Park. For groups with a competitive spirit (or who just want to feel like Robin Hood), archery awaits. Saffire Freycinet has its own Tasmanian Devil enclosure as part of its experiences. Photo / Saffire Freycinet FOR AN EXPERIENTIAL STAY Ilimanaq Lodge, Greenland Instead of counting sheep to help you sleep, you can count icebergs under the midnight sun at Ilimanaq Lodge, which sits on the Unesco-listed Ilulissat Icefiord. Some of the country's oldest buildings have been beautifully restored to house the restaurant and reception area, and there is a focus on solar power and sustainability. Cultural immersion forms a major part of this lodge experience, and guests are warmly welcomed by those in the tiny surrounding town with a population of around 50 people. If you want to truly learn about Greenland, Ilimanaq Lodge offers a deep dive into the local way of life. Dinner at the Ilimanaq Lodge restaurant. Photo / World of Greenland FOR EXPLORING OFF THE BEATEN PATH Shipwreck Lodge, Namibia Set yourself adrift on the sands of Namibia's Skeleton Coast at Shipwreck Lodge, a whimsical collection of boat-style villas facing the distant Atlantic Ocean. You won't mind being 'shipwrecked' at this eco-conscious accommodation, which is popular with travellers who enjoy getting off the beaten track, and photographers who come here to capture the dramatic, ever-shifting sand dunes and starlit skies. The main lodge is a hub for socialising, sundowners and swapping tales of the day's adventures, from tours of the Mowe Bay seal colony to exploring the historic shipwrecks that give this extraordinary place its name. Shipwreck Lodge. Photo / Shipwreck Lodge FOR NATURE AND CULTURE Tenkū no Mori, Japan Forget your worries (and your wardrobe) at Tenkū no Mori on Kyushu Island, where each of the five secluded villas has its own traditional Japanese onsen. Accommodation is spread across 60ha of wilderness so you can enjoy an authentic, au naturel bathing experience away from prying eyes. It's just you, soothing warm water, the whispers of nature and some squirrels. Add private dining while a flowing river washes your ankles, and you'll get the essence of Tenkū, which takes the Japanese ethos of connection to the environment to the next level. Tenku No Mori. Photo / Tenku No Mori FOR THE ECO-CONSCIOUS Shinta Mani Mustang, Nepal The beauty of Nepal's dramatic jagged peaks might literally take your breath away at Shinta Mani Mustang, as the lodge sits at 3000m above sea level. Each of the 29 rooms features mountain views, and the famous aesthetic of acclaimed hotel designer Bill Bensley. Private tours immerse you in the Nepalese way of life, with activities like hikes, lunch at a local's house and visiting a hilltop monastery, and actively support the local community. If you've been trying to justify a longer lodge stay, this one has a five-night minimum, starting at $15,795 for two. Shinta Mani Mustang exterior. Photo / Shinta Mani Mustang FOR ACTIVE FAMILIES Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort, British Columbia Grab your kids and prepare to get wild at the family-owned Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort in the Great Bear Rainforest, with a curated range of adventurous activities led by local guides. Start your day with a kayak trip or the thrill of bear spotting (from a safe distance, of course), followed by a soak in a hot tub next to a roaring waterfall or a sauna on the lake if your kids are older. With no mobile phone reception and limited Wi-Fi, this lodge also includes actual conversations, shared laughter and memories that'll last a lifetime. Nimmo Bay floating hot tub. Photo / Jeremy Koreski FOR FINDING INNER PEACE Amankora Paro, Bhutan Embrace the spirituality and beauty of Bhutan at Amankora Paro, which is a 20-minute drive from the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery. The lodge's design pays tribute to Bhutan's rich heritage, mirroring the traditional fortresses that punctuate the dramatic landscape. Speaking of the landscape, you'll dine with an uninterrupted view of Drukgyel Dzong, one of the country's most celebrated archaeological treasures. Dishes span Western, Indian and Bhutanese cuisine, and tours of a nearby market provide an insight into the local food. Hiking to the awe-inspiring Tiger's Nest Monastery is as rewarding for the soul as it is challenging for the legs. Amankora Paro is a short drive from Bhutan's iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery. Photo / Amankora FOR A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME SPLURGE COMO Laucala Island, Fiji You know that feeling when you're on holiday and you're constantly, subtly, tallying up the cost of things? 'If I have one more of those fancy cocktails, is it really worth it?' Well, at COMO Laucala Island, you can bid farewell to such trivial concerns as everything is included. Given a stay costs around $65,000 for four nights for two, it would want to be. There are three villa categories, with Plateau being the most affordable (relatively speaking), followed by Plantation and Seagrass. The latter are further from the restaurant and other facilities, but those extra steps are your ticket to direct beach access and a prime cliff-edge location.
NZ Herald
20-07-2025
- NZ Herald
Western Australia: an unspoilt land where summer never ends
Spotting a quokka - the 'happiest animal on Earth' - is one of many unique experiences in store for those venturing to the spectacular, untouched and unspoilt landscapes of Western Australia. The country's largest state, it boasts Australia's longest coastline and is a rich dreamscape for nature and wildlife lovers. It has an abundance of fresh air and wide, open spaces and, as the locals say, it is always summer somewhere in the state. The capital city Perth is Australia's sunniest capital and is home to 19 white sandy beaches and vibrant city streets. But back to the quokkas. One of the most memorable things to do while in Perth is to take a photo of the happy little critter. Around 10,000 of them live on Rottnest Island / Wadjemup, itself a slice of paradise just a 30-minute ferry ride out into the Indian Ocean from Perth's port city of Fremantle / Walyalup. While the island's 63 beaches have blindingly white sand and water so clear you can see down to your toes - all linked by paved riding and walking trails - it is the encounter with its cute inhabitants that makes a visit there so heartwarming. A small wallaby which grows to about the size of a domestic cat, quokkas appear to be perpetually smiling which is what earned them that sweet and fitting 'happiest animal on earth' moniker. Highly photogenic and friendly, they roam freely around Rottnest Island. They are found nowhere else on the planet. Western Australia is a place to recharge, connect with the land and experience otherworldly natural phenomena and for Kiwis wanting to travel there it is easy to book and plan holidays through YOU Travel, the New Zealand-owned and operated travel brand with 30 stores across Aotearoa. Among the many attractions, places to go and things to do YOU Travel suggests are: Walks with Aboriginal guides Gain insights into Western Australia's rich Aboriginal culture with walking tours over some of Perth's most iconic and scenic landscapes – and imagine the Noongar dreamtime stories passed down for generations. Walks are about 90 minutes long. Swimming alongside whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef About a 13-hour drive or two-hour flight from Perth, the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo / Nyinggulu reef plays host to gentle whale sharks from March to August offering an unparalleled opportunity to spot – and swim with – some of the world's largest marine animals. Humpback whales and manta rays also glide past as visitors dive, snorkel or swim among a colourful universe of coral gardens beneath the waters. The south west region's Cape to Cape track Giant karri forests and ancient limestone caves are waiting to be explored while visitors can also hike the famous 125km Cape to Cape track. One of the most outstanding walking trails in Australia it stretches from the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse in the Margaret River Region. Moon in Broome At Roebuck Bay / Yawuru Nagulagun as darkness descends, experience a once-in-a-lifetime sight when the full moon rises over tidal flats, creating a stunning visual effect. Known as the Staircase to the Moon, it occurs on certain dates from March to October. A two-and-a-half hour flight from Perth, Broome / Rubibi is also home to the stunning pearls of the South Seas and has attracted pearl divers since the 1800s. Chinatown's dazzling pearl showrooms are a must-see. Horizontal Waterfalls, Talbot Bay Sir David Attenborough calls them 'one of the greatest natural wonders of the world' which must be seen to be believed. The falls are formed by massive volumes of water squeezing through narrow cliff passages with rapid-like formations creating a unique sideways waterfall effect. The Horizontal / Garaan-ngaddim falls are easily accessible by seaplane or helicopter from Broome or Derby. Lucky Bay Known as Australia's whitest beach, Lucky Bay is an incredible 5km stretch of long, white sandy beach near Esperance / Kepa Kurl, a part of the Cape Le Grand National Park / Mandoowernup. Brilliant blue and turquoise waters drift into the protected bay, one frequently inhabited by kangaroos looking to cool off. A 45-minute drive from Esperance, visitors can camp, fish, swim, go boating or bushwalking. Pink lakes at Port Gregory Sometimes bright bubblegum pink, sometimes lilac and occasionally red, the waters of Hutt Lagoon can be an extraordinary sight. A high level of salinity gives the lagoon its unusual hue and its vibrancy changes with the seasons and time of day. Best time to visit is on a clear day, around mid-morning or sunset. Hutt Lagoon is about a six-hour drive from Perth. Between July and September, the countryside is blanketed with 12,000 species of wildflowers. Cruising the Kimberley coastline The Kimberley coast is largely untouched with thousands of kilometres of red cliffs, pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life. It is a wilderness few have experienced. One of the most spectacular ways to explore it is by expedition cruise ranging from boutique vessels to larger expedition craft. Some are topped with a helicopter allowing access to cliff-top waterfall pools, expansive views of island archipelagos and thrilling rides. Inflatable zodiac boats are used to explore remote island beaches, fishing spots and narrow river reaches. Margaret River Region – premium wine country The Margaret River Region is home to some of Australia's best vineyards and cellar-doors (there are over 200) and dining experiences. With a relaxed, nature-loving, artistic vibe its main street is dotted with diverse galleries, characterful cafes, surf shops and a pub with a 600-bottle wine list. Some of the region's top surf breaks are a 10-minute drive away while guided crawls through underground limestone caves are offered.
