The Ultimate Romantic Retreat: The Çırağan Palace Kempinski
There are a few non-negotiables when it comes to a honeymoon. Brilliant weather. Bountiful, delicious cuisine. A spa that'll ease the knots incurred while painstakingly planning nuptials. Beds with a high thread count in sprawling suites. Beautiful views. A desire for comfort and opulence that far exceeds that which you have in your (new!) home. The Çırağan Palace Kempinski, a 17th century Imperial stalwart turned luxury hotel, perched on the Bosphorus, fulfils the majesty, with picturesque, historic Istanbul providing the perfect host city.
Immediate clues as to the luxury of the property abound – you'll spot chic fellow guests taking a traditional three-tiered afternoon tea at the Gazebo, posing by the glistening infinity pool that seemingly spills into the waterway, and enjoying signature cocktails at C Bar. Head to the latter, a local hotspot, for stunning sunsets at golden hour, before the DJ turns a leisurely aperitivo at the al fresco venue on the Bosporus into a party.
You know a restaurant raises the bar when residents as well as tourists cite it as a favourite. Chef Emre Inanir ensures diners at award-winning Tuğra recognise traditional flavours prevalent in Turkish recipes, but gives them his own innovative, haute cuisine accent. His elevated take on herb-stuffed borek and seabass in zucchini flowers have taken on mythical status. Opt for the multi-course degustation menu to savour all the highlights this kitchen conjures up. The fact that it's all served in a grand setting – think marble, crystal chandeliers, soaring ceilings and rich fabrics – makes it even more special.
Another option to satiate your gourmet desires? Just steps away from the Strait sits the more casual Bosphorus Grill that'll serve up yet more swoon-worthy content for your Insta-feed… Its menu will tick off any cravings but the doner kebab is a must-try, with your choice of meat served with a plethora of sides, salads dips and bread to create your own feast.
Türkiye is known for its feasts, but it is also known for its hammams – the ultimate in pampering. The Çırağan's Sanitas Spa exceeds expectations. From a cabana massage that takes place outdoors by the water, to the lavish Shehrazad hamman that ends with a luxurious soak in a scented bath with twinkling candles, this tranquil space is justifiably famous. For couples wanting to invest more time in their wellbeing after celebratory indulgence, there are tailored wellness packages too.
It's just a four-hour flight away (from the UAE) – ideal for long weekends if you don't have time for a month-long sojourn – which is why there's no excuse not to up the ante when it comes to a quick escape, and check into the Çırağan this summer.
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The Ultimate Romantic Retreat: The Çırağan Palace Kempinski
Get the royal treatment at the Çırağan Palace Kempinski, the ideal honeymoon destination to escape to this summer There are a few non-negotiables when it comes to a honeymoon. Brilliant weather. Bountiful, delicious cuisine. A spa that'll ease the knots incurred while painstakingly planning nuptials. Beds with a high thread count in sprawling suites. Beautiful views. A desire for comfort and opulence that far exceeds that which you have in your (new!) home. The Çırağan Palace Kempinski, a 17th century Imperial stalwart turned luxury hotel, perched on the Bosphorus, fulfils the majesty, with picturesque, historic Istanbul providing the perfect host city. Immediate clues as to the luxury of the property abound – you'll spot chic fellow guests taking a traditional three-tiered afternoon tea at the Gazebo, posing by the glistening infinity pool that seemingly spills into the waterway, and enjoying signature cocktails at C Bar. Head to the latter, a local hotspot, for stunning sunsets at golden hour, before the DJ turns a leisurely aperitivo at the al fresco venue on the Bosporus into a party. You know a restaurant raises the bar when residents as well as tourists cite it as a favourite. Chef Emre Inanir ensures diners at award-winning Tuğra recognise traditional flavours prevalent in Turkish recipes, but gives them his own innovative, haute cuisine accent. His elevated take on herb-stuffed borek and seabass in zucchini flowers have taken on mythical status. Opt for the multi-course degustation menu to savour all the highlights this kitchen conjures up. The fact that it's all served in a grand setting – think marble, crystal chandeliers, soaring ceilings and rich fabrics – makes it even more special. Another option to satiate your gourmet desires? Just steps away from the Strait sits the more casual Bosphorus Grill that'll serve up yet more swoon-worthy content for your Insta-feed… Its menu will tick off any cravings but the doner kebab is a must-try, with your choice of meat served with a plethora of sides, salads dips and bread to create your own feast. Türkiye is known for its feasts, but it is also known for its hammams – the ultimate in pampering. The Çırağan's Sanitas Spa exceeds expectations. From a cabana massage that takes place outdoors by the water, to the lavish Shehrazad hamman that ends with a luxurious soak in a scented bath with twinkling candles, this tranquil space is justifiably famous. For couples wanting to invest more time in their wellbeing after celebratory indulgence, there are tailored wellness packages too. It's just a four-hour flight away (from the UAE) – ideal for long weekends if you don't have time for a month-long sojourn – which is why there's no excuse not to up the ante when it comes to a quick escape, and check into the Çırağan this summer.
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The Ultimate Guide To The Amalfi Coast
Known for its romantic fishing villages nestled among cliffs, creative culinary scene and impressive collection of luxury hotels, there's good reason why the Amalfi Coast tops many a traveller's honeymoon bucket list While Rome may have its museums, Milan its high fashion scene and Puglia its rustic beauty, few Italian regions set the scene for romance quite like the Amalfi Coast. A place that novelist John Steinbeck called one of the 'most beautiful and dramatic coastlines in the world', where D.H. Lawrence wrote Lady Chatterley's Lover, and where the likes of Reese Witherspoon, Kim Kardashian and Anna Paquin have all honeymooned, this 50km coastal stretch spanning the towns of Positano to Vietri sul Mare is the epitome of post-wedding la dolce vita. As the busy summer season sets in, Bazaar Bride escaped the heat of the Middle East to venture to the slightly less intense heat on the southern edge of Italy's Sorrentine Peninsula – the perfect setting for newlyweds looking to unwind and toast to their new chapter together. Amalfi The coast's namesake charming town that comes steeped in history, Amalfi is ideal for loved-up couples looking to wander hand-in-hand through its winding lanes dotted with boutiques, bars and cafés. At its heart lies Piazza Duomo, where a grand staircase leads to the striking 12th-century Cathedral of Sant'Andrea, while the town is also renowned for its centuries-old papermaking tradition and vibrant lemon cultivation. Follow the lively Via Lorenzo D'Amalfi to discover the Paper Museum and the Amalfi Lemon Experience, where local limoncello and ancient lemon groves await – an idyllic excursion for two. Where To Stay: Anantara Convento Di Amalfi Grand Hotel Perched high above the town's sun-soaked port, Anantara's cliffside sanctuary was once a Capuchin monastery, paying tribute to its history by blending 13th-century serenity with five-star flair. Sitting quietly removed from Amalfi's swirl of scooters and camera-toting daytrippers, yet still easily accessible from town (shuttles run every hour, or guests can book private transfers on request), enjoy the same moments of reflection once reserved for its resident monks through its peaceful, bougainvillea-draped Monk's Walk which, stretching the full length of the property, is a stunning spot to soak in views that span the Gulf of Salerno, spritz in hand. Home to 52 extravagant rooms and suites scattered across multiple levels in what was once the monks' living quarters, while their vaulted ceilings, original tiles and cloister-facing windows remain, they now come complemented by sleek Italian furnishings, Carrara marble bathrooms and modern luxuries like Nespresso machines and Aqua di Parma amenities. Some suites have private terraces with hot tubs perfect for honeymooners, one even hides within its own lemon grove. As to be expected from the renowned Anantara brand, dining here is most certainly anything but an afterthought, showcasing the region's bounty in simple yet delightful ways. Take your pick from gourmet restaurant Dei Cappuccini, where chef Claudio Lanuto draws from the hotel's gardens and trusted local suppliers to dish up the likes of grilled lobster, lemon-laced pasta and just-caught seafood served al fresco, while La Locanda della Canonica is all about traditional wood-fired pizzas courtesy of Naples maestro Gino Sorbillo. Come morning, breakfast is a lavish affair on the terrace, accompanied by a live harpist and sea breeze – you can burn some of it off at the open-air gym if you're that way inclined. As for its seemingly-endless amenities, there's an Instagram-ready infinity pool overlooking the azure waters and an intimate spa complete with hammam, two couple rooms with saunas and steam room (we highly recommend booking in for the Citrus Massage Experience, which uses a combination of citrus oils to harness the natural benefits of the Italian lemon), while guests can also book Vespa rides, boat trips to Capri and private history tours including a fascinating walk through the property's historic chapel and cloister with local friar Marcus. Be sure to experience them all. Don't Miss The recent Netflix adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's 1950s novel The Talented Mr. Ripley may have sparked a surge in tourism to a quaint seaside Italian town Atrani but, just a short 10-minute walk from the centre of Amalfi, it is still a stunning spot to escape the chaos complete with characteristic scalinatelle (stairways), quiet beaches and a plethora of cafes serving up refreshing lemon granita. Romantic Ravello is also just a 20-minute drive away, home to exquisite 800-year-old villas and the most breathtaking views of the region. Capri Located just off the Bay of Naples, Capri is perhaps the most exclusive of all towns in the Amalfi Coast, and arguably the most romantic. Not only is it where the Roman Emperor Tiberius came to live, but you'll find wealthy European and international jet setters in their droves enjoying aperitivo on terraces long after the last ferry returns to Naples or Positano, taking the crowds with it. Blanketed with Mediterranean shrubs, blooming Broom flowers, Bougainvillea and lemon trees (you'll be forgiven for thinking lemons are its entire personality), it's also worth retreating to Anacapri on the other side of the island which, once derided as rustic and uncultured, offers couples a slower, more soulful side of island life, still within a stone's throw away from the designer shops and restaurants of Capri proper. Where To Stay: Capri Palace Jumeirah Tucked into the quieter folds of Anacapri, high above the island's glittering coastlines and beyond the thrum of the Piazzetta, Capri Palace Jumeirah feels worlds away from the jet-set circus below. Think whitewashed architecture, museum-worthy art collections and a mood that is far from rustic but never showy, the hotel occupies a commanding perch with views across the Bay of Naples. Under the wing of Jumeirah, a luxury name we are all familiar with, since 2019, the property has introduced subtle design updates without disturbing its soul, the most recent being its five new suites by architect Patricia Urquiola that opened this summer. All terracotta and marine blues, sculptural plaster walls that ripple like waves and custom pieces that blur the line between furniture and form, they are a playful contrast to the resort's other suites, which come complete with soft sun-bleached tones, minimalist furnishings and a restraint that lets the sea view take centre stage. Wellness is also a serious affair here, with its famed Capri Medical Spa focusing on circulation, detox and beauty. Its Leg School treatment is a must try, with its three-part ritual of medicated mud, cooling bandages and hydrotherapy promising lighter steps and smoother skin, ideal after long days of travel. As for the food, be sure to linger over an expansive breakfast by the pool before heading down to lunch at Il Riccio Beach Club, where Dior-branded parasols and dishes including burrata, lobster, oysters and super fresh catch of the day make for a stylish, sun-drenched lunch. As for dinner, choose from sushi and DJs with the style set at the rooftop Zuma, or candlelit Campanian dishes at L'Olivo, a critically acclaimed restaurant helmed by chef Andrea Migliaccio. Don't Miss You can't visit Capri without getting out on the water, and the best way to do that is via a luxury private charter, where you'll be able to get close to Casa Malaparte (the Italian Modern masterpiece built in the late 1930s after Adalberto Libera's designs), which is otherwise closed to the public. There are companies galore, however, so it's best to contact your hotel concierge ahead of time to see which service they recommend. Positano The glitziest gem of the Amalfi Coast, Positano has long been a favourite among honeymooners since the a modest fishing village, its transformation began in the 1950s, helped along by author John Steinbeck, who famously described it as a 'dream place' in a 1953 Harper's Bazaar article titled Positano Bites Deep. Where To Stay: Le Sirenuse A recurring entry in The World's 50 Best list, Le Sirenuse was opened in 1951 by Neapolitan siblings Aldo, Paolo, Anna and Franco Sersale, and has been run by the Sersale family ever since. Just a five-minute walk from the port, guests can enter discreetly via a private staircase meaning not only can you arrive stress-free, you'll also avoid the throngs of crowds vying to get a glimpse of this iconic hotel, which comes is among a cascade of picturesque homes clinging to steep cliffs that plunge toward the sea. Home to just 58 rooms and suites defined by hand-painted ceramic tiles, private patios and Carrara marble bathrooms, Le Sirenuse is so much more than just a luxury hotel, blending the worlds of fashion, culture, gastronomy, mixology and wellbeing in one fell swoop. Case in point? The scenic La Sponda restaurant, informally glamorous bar-bistrot Aldo's and the chic little Pool Bar showcase this southern Italian region's authentic seasonal produce, each offering candlelit corners and sweeping views made for romance. Its contemporary spa comes designed by architect Gae Aulenti, where a range of signature treatments are available alongside a fitness area with two total-workout Megaformer machines, while guests can enjoy an impressive array of all-inclusive weekly activities including trekking on some of the Amalfi Coast's spectacular mountain trails, fitness classes, hotel flower tours, sunset cruises and even breakfast on the Sant' Antonio boat. As to be expected, art also takes pride of place – the hotel's décor was assembled over decades by antique collector Franco Sersale, with a growing site-specific contemporary art collection featuring talents of the calibre of Martin Creed, Nicolas Party and Swiss artist Caroline Bachmann. Don't Miss Praiano may be known as Positano's quieter and quainter neighbour, but that's not the case at One Fire Beach, which is perhaps the most stylish beach club in the region. A short 10-minute boat transfer from Positano port, this is a place that takes the meaning of 'fun in the sun.' Be sure to stay until at least 4.30pm, which marks the Insta-famous 'watermelon show', a lively spectacle led by the enthusiastic samurai-sword-wielding staff.
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Park Hyatt emerges in South Africa with the opening of Park Hyatt Johannesburg
Dubai, UAE: Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced the opening of Park Hyatt Johannesburg, marking the luxury brand's third destination in the African region. Set within the vibrant Rosebank district, celebrated for its cultural richness and urban vitality, Park Hyatt Johannesburg offers a refined, residential-style experience where thoughtful design, immersive art, and warm hospitality come together in perfect balance. 'We are extremely proud to open Park Hyatt Johannesburg, extending the legacy of the Park Hyatt brand to Rosebank,' commented Mitch Gemmell, general manager, Park Hyatt Johannesburg. 'Our team is dedicated to offering deeply personalised service and thoughtfully curated experiences, delivered with meticulous attention to detail and the essence of modern luxury hospitality in every interaction.' Local Heritage & Architecture The hotel elegantly preserves its architectural heritage, blending classical and contemporary elements inspired by colonial residences. Originally constructed in the 1930s as a stately colonial mansion, the building reflects the influence of Sir Herbert Baker, whose architectural legacy helped shape the character of Johannesburg's early residential estates. Today, Park Hyatt Johannesburg honors this legacy through the careful restoration of original features such as graceful arches, high ceilings, and wide verandahs, creating a serene oasis that seamlessly connects heritage with modern luxury. The hotel is structured around a central open-air courtyard, anchored by a magnificent jacaranda tree, sculpted gardens, and a heated outdoor pool, creating a serene focal point for relaxation and reflection. Embedded across the property is a locally curated art and design program, with each floor and space featuring site-specific themes inspired by the region's landscapes, botanical history, and archival collections. Guestrooms & Suites The hotel features 31 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, each offering king-size beds and floor-to-ceiling windows designed to maximize natural light and provide serene garden views. Select rooms and suites feature private patios, further enhancing the sense of tranquility. The carefully designed interiors boast plush cotton linens, marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, bespoke Ndebele-patterned throws, and curated South African artwork. Art themes within the rooms include Sea Algae, Trees, Safari, Forest, Explorer, and Leaves, all celebrating South Africa's diverse biospheres. Local artistic work is also exhibited in public spaces, comprising pieces employing a warm neutral palette enriched by artisanal details and botanical illustrations dating back to the 1800s, many sourced from historical archives. Culinary Mastery Culinary excellence forms the heart of Park Hyatt Johannesburg. The hotel's Room 32 restaurant – named to play on the property's 31 rooms – presents guests with an immersive gastronomic journey, showcasing innovative cuisine prepared over live-fire grills, emphasizing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can witness the artistry of chefs transforming humble ingredients into culinary delights. Complementing this experience, The Lounge provides a sophisticated yet relaxed setting to savor handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, and a carefully selected array of premium cigars. Celebrating South Africa's rich winemaking heritage, the wine list is guided by a focus on terroir and quality, with selections that reflect the country's diverse viticultural landscape. Guests can look forward to an elevated oenological experience guided by a dedicated sommelier, offering thoughtful pairings and insight into the provenance and character of each wine. Culturally Inspired Wellness With the spa set to open soon, wellness experiences at Park Hyatt Johannesburg will invite guests to rejuvenate through exclusive treatments inspired by international and South African traditions. Signature therapies incorporate native ingredients such as rooibos, marula oil and baobab extract, known for their healing and antioxidant properties. Drawing on the holistic principles of local wellness rituals, treatments aim to restore balance and energy while offering a sensory journey that connects guests with the natural richness of the region. The hotel also features a fully equipped fitness center and a heated outdoor pool nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens, offering a tranquil environment amidst the city. Park Hyatt Johannesburg is also proud to collaborate with luxury publisher Assouline to bring iconic Assouline titles, signature candles, and refined design elements to the hotel's lounge and suites, enriching the atmosphere with a sense of timeless sophistication. Intimate Events & Gatherings At Park Hyatt Johannesburg, guests can experience the perfect blend of sophistication and functionality for gatherings. The property provides a flexible event space accommodating up to 60 guests, ideal for intimate meetings and elegant celebrations. Whether it's a wedding, corporate event, or private party, the dedicated hotel team ensures that every detail is meticulously crafted to create unforgettable memories. "The opening of Park Hyatt Johannesburg embodies our commitment to providing exceptional service, care and luxury deeply connected to the city's rich heritage and vibrant culture,' commented Hamza Farooqui, CEO of Millat Group. 'Our aim is to offer an unparalleled experience, blending refined hospitality with authentic South African artistry." Conveniently located near key cultural attractions, galleries, boutique shops, and acclaimed dining establishments in the city, Park Hyatt Johannesburg is set to become a definitive luxury destination for discerning business and leisure travelers alike. For more information, visit: The term 'Hyatt' is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates. About Hyatt Hotels Corporation Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of March 31, 2025, the Company's portfolio included more than 1,450 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 79 countries across six continents. The Company's offering includes brands in the Luxury Portfolio, including Park Hyatt ®, Alila ®, Miraval ®, Impression by Secrets, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt ®; the Lifestyle Portfolio, including Andaz ®, Thompson Hotels ®, The Standard ®, Dream ® Hotels, The StandardX, Breathless Resorts & Spas ®, JdV by Hyatt ®, Bunkhouse ® Hotels, and Me and All Hotels; the Inclusive Collection, including Zoëtry ® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Hyatt Ziva ®, Hyatt Zilara ®, Secrets ® Resorts & Spas, Dreams ® Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid Hotels & Resorts, Sunscape ® Resorts & Spas, Alua Hotels & Resorts ®, and Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts; the Classics Portfolio, including Grand Hyatt ®, Hyatt Regency ®, Destination by Hyatt ®, Hyatt Centric ®, Hyatt Vacation Club ®, and Hyatt ®; and the Essentials Portfolio, including Caption by Hyatt ®, Hyatt Place ®, Hyatt House ®, Hyatt Studios, Hyatt Select, and UrCove. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Mr & Mrs Smith, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar® DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services. For more information, please visit About Park Hyatt Park Hyatt hotels provide discerning, global travelers with a refined home-away-from-home. Guests of Park Hyatt hotels receive quietly confident and personalized service in an enriching environment. Located in several of the world's premier destinations, each Park Hyatt hotel is custom designed to combine sophistication with understated luxury. Park Hyatt hotels feature well-appointed guestrooms, world-renowned artwork and design, rare and immersive culinary experiences, and signature restaurants featuring award-winning chefs. There are currently 48 Park Hyatt hotels in the following locations: Abu Dhabi, Auckland, Bangkok, Beaver Creek, Beijing, Buenos Aires, Busan, Canberra, Changbaishan, Carlsbad, Changsha, Chennai, Chicago, Doha, Dubai, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Hyderabad, Istanbul, Jakarta, Jeddah, Johannesburg, Kyoto, London, Maldives, Marrakech, Melbourne, Mendoza, Milan, New York, Ningbo, Niseko, Paris, Saigon, Sanya, Seoul, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Siem Reap, St. Kitts, Suzhou, Sydney, Tokyo, Toronto, Vienna, Washington, D.C., Zanzibar, and Zurich. For more information, please visit Follow @ParkHyatt on Facebook, X and Instagram, and tag photos with #LuxuryIsPersonal. MEDIA CONTACTS: Chloe Duncan Hyatt – Middle East and Africa Ankita Raturi Park Hyatt Johannebsurg
