The real flex is going on a vacay that gives back
Forget basic beach breaks, the new status holiday is all about giving back (to the animals, obvs). From feeding orphaned elephants in Thailand to safaris in solar-powered Land Cruisers, these getaways are your chance to reconnect with nature, while still living that luxe life. Here's where to book for your next guilt-free vacay.
Tatvani, Chiang Rai – Thailand
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Imagine booking an entire 29-acre estate just for you and your crew (yes, really). Tatvani in Chiang Rai is what you get when five-star luxury and ethical travel have a baby. With six dreamy villas, koi-filled swimming ponds, and an award-winning spa, you'll be in your softest era yet.
The real star of the show? The Tatvani Elephant Sanctuary. You'll get to spend quality time (as in, unlimited) with their small herd of orphaned elephants, no chains, no riding, just genuine connection. Add in rice planting, buffalo cuddles, and treks with local tribes, and this is your Eat Pray Love moment with a conservationist twist.
Tatvani.com
Cheetah Plains, Sabi Sand – South Africa
What if your safari could be totally silent and totally sustainable? Cheetah Plains is South Africa's first carbon-negative lodge (yep, NEGATIVE), running entirely off solar energy and using electric Land Cruisers that glide through the bush like a dream. It's peak eco-luxury.
Set in the legendary Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, this place is all about preserving the wild, while giving you front-row seats to lions, elephants, leopards and more. There are only 12 guest suites, so it's all ultra-private, and every stay directly supports conservation, local communities, and grassroots education. Oh, and the beanies in the boutique? Made by local women trained through Cheetah's own knitting project. Cute and conscious.
cheetahplains.com
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Tsavo & Nairobi – Kenya
What if your safari could help orphaned elephants heal and head back to the wild? The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is one of Kenya's most iconic conservation organisations, best known for rescuing baby elephants and raising them with round-the-clock care until they're strong enough to return to the wild. It's heartwarming, hopeful, and seriously unforgettable.
Based between Nairobi National Park and Tsavo, the Trust offers intimate experiences where you can witness the magic up close—think feeding time at the Nursery or seeing reintegrated elephants roam free in the wilderness. Every visit, donation, and symbolic adoption goes directly towards wildlife protection, anti-poaching patrols, and habitat conservation across Kenya.
Oh, and the baby ellies in red blankets? Adorable doesn't even begin to cover it.
sheldrickwildlifetrust.org
Check out the books celebs are packing in their bags this holiday.
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Cosmopolitan ME
3 days ago
- Cosmopolitan ME
The real flex is going on a vacay that gives back
Forget basic beach breaks, the new status holiday is all about giving back (to the animals, obvs). From feeding orphaned elephants in Thailand to safaris in solar-powered Land Cruisers, these getaways are your chance to reconnect with nature, while still living that luxe life. Here's where to book for your next guilt-free vacay. Tatvani, Chiang Rai – Thailand c c Imagine booking an entire 29-acre estate just for you and your crew (yes, really). Tatvani in Chiang Rai is what you get when five-star luxury and ethical travel have a baby. With six dreamy villas, koi-filled swimming ponds, and an award-winning spa, you'll be in your softest era yet. The real star of the show? The Tatvani Elephant Sanctuary. You'll get to spend quality time (as in, unlimited) with their small herd of orphaned elephants, no chains, no riding, just genuine connection. Add in rice planting, buffalo cuddles, and treks with local tribes, and this is your Eat Pray Love moment with a conservationist twist. Cheetah Plains, Sabi Sand – South Africa What if your safari could be totally silent and totally sustainable? Cheetah Plains is South Africa's first carbon-negative lodge (yep, NEGATIVE), running entirely off solar energy and using electric Land Cruisers that glide through the bush like a dream. It's peak eco-luxury. Set in the legendary Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, this place is all about preserving the wild, while giving you front-row seats to lions, elephants, leopards and more. There are only 12 guest suites, so it's all ultra-private, and every stay directly supports conservation, local communities, and grassroots education. Oh, and the beanies in the boutique? Made by local women trained through Cheetah's own knitting project. Cute and conscious. Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Tsavo & Nairobi – Kenya What if your safari could help orphaned elephants heal and head back to the wild? The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is one of Kenya's most iconic conservation organisations, best known for rescuing baby elephants and raising them with round-the-clock care until they're strong enough to return to the wild. It's heartwarming, hopeful, and seriously unforgettable. Based between Nairobi National Park and Tsavo, the Trust offers intimate experiences where you can witness the magic up close—think feeding time at the Nursery or seeing reintegrated elephants roam free in the wilderness. Every visit, donation, and symbolic adoption goes directly towards wildlife protection, anti-poaching patrols, and habitat conservation across Kenya. Oh, and the baby ellies in red blankets? Adorable doesn't even begin to cover it. Check out the books celebs are packing in their bags this holiday.
Zawya
6 days ago
- Zawya
Own Award-Winning Luxury Resort-Style Residences at Thailand's VEHHA Hua Hin with Limited-Time Discounts
Discover Luxury Resort-Style Living at VEHHA Hua Hin – Thailand's Tallest Residential Tower Offering Panoramic Ocean Views, Hotel-Style Services, and a Complete Living Lifestyle with Exclusive Access to VANA NAVA Water Jungle and Prime Coastal Connectivity Experience Fitwel-Certified Living with Panoramic Ocean Views, Exclusive Privileges, and a Convenient Coastal Location BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 June 2025 - Proud Real Estate Plc is delighted to present an exceptional opportunity to own a prestigious residence at VEHHA Hua Hin, the tallest and most iconic residential tower in the coastal city of Hua Hin, Thailand. As part of a limited-time promotion, selected units are now available, with starting prices from USD 118,000 (June 2025). Fully completed and ready for immediate occupancy, VEHHA Hua Hin represents a new standard of wellness-inspired living, combining cutting-edge design, unrivaled amenities, premium hospitality services partners and prime location. Recognized with the Fitwel Design Certification in the multifamily residential category, this award-winning development emphasizes health, well-being, and sustainability through innovative architecture and curated services. Offering panoramic ocean views from every residence, VEHHA Hua Hin is a rare blend of luxury and wellness, ideally positioned for discerning homeowners and investors seeking a future-focused property in one of Thailand's most sought-after destinations. Setting a New Benchmark in Wellness & Well-being Real Estate VEHHA Hua Hin is a landmark development that redefines luxury living in Thailand. Standing 31 stories high, it is the tallest residential tower in Hua Hin, offering 364 fully furnished units across a variety of layouts, including 1-bedroom, 1-bedroom plus, and penthouse configurations. Each unit is designed with panoramic ocean views, privacy-enhancing Single Corridor layouts, and abundant natural light, ensuring a sophisticated living experience that harmonizes with the surrounding environment. "Every element of VEHHA Hua Hin—from its design and amenities to its services and infrastructure—embodies Proud Real Estate's brand philosophy, which is 'ALL IS WELL,'" stated Ms. Proudputh Liptapanlop, Executive Director of Proud Real Estate Plc. "This is not just a statement but our sincere commitment to crafting a world-class residence that enhances every dimension of life." Beyond its architectural brilliance, VEHHA Hua Hin provides a seamless vacation lifestyle through a curated selection of a-la-carte hospitality services by the world-renowned Holiday Inn Resort VANA NAVA Hua Hin, including housekeeping, private catering, and room service etc. Residents also enjoy exclusive access to hotel-level amenities at privileged rates, enriching every aspect of the 'ALL IS WELL' living philosophy, as well as a complimentary three-year pass to the VANA NAVA Water Jungle, one of Thailand's premier water parks. To further enhance the living experience, Proud Real Estate has partnered with leading wellness and healthcare providers to offer personalized wellness programs, ensuring that residents enjoy a holistic lifestyle that nurtures physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Strategic Location and Infrastructure Upgrades Strategically located in the Nong Kae area, VEHHA Hua Hin offers unparalleled convenience. It is just 700 meters from the beach, steps from the train station, and a short five-minute drive to Hua Hin's vibrant downtown. This prime location ensures a harmonious blend of accessibility and tranquility, making it an ideal choice for vacation homes, retirement residences, expatriates, digital nomads, and long-term investments. Hua Hin's appeal as a premium destination is further bolstered by significant infrastructure upgrades, including: Highway 35 (M35) Upgrade: Will cut Bangkok–Hua Hin drive time to 1 hour by late 2025. Dual-Track Railway: In use since 2023, cutting Hua Hin train time by 25%. High-Speed Rail: Will reduce Bangkok–Hua Hin travel to 1 hour once complete. Hua Hin Airport Expansion: Finishing in 2026, upgrading to international standards and boosting tourism. Thailand Riviera Project: 950 km coastal road across 12 provinces to enhance tourism and local economies. Hua Hin: A Timeless and Evolving Destination Hua Hin, a destination steeped in history and charm, has evolved into a world-class retreat for travelers and residents alike. Its stunning beaches, cultural landmarks, and tranquil atmosphere make it a preferred choice for those seeking a blend of relaxation and modern convenience. With travel times from Bangkok ranging between 2 to 3.5 hours, Hua Hin has become increasingly accessible, attracting both Thai and international visitors. The town's compact geography and scarcity of prime real estate, particularly in beachfront and city-center locations, have driven demand for high-rise developments, making projects like VEHHA Hua Hin highly desirable. Real Estate Growth and Investment Opportunities Hua Hin's real estate market continues to demonstrate steady growth, with annual increases of 5 to 7 percent over the past five years. A report by Colliers Thailand highlights the strong momentum of high-rise developments in the region, particularly across Hua Hin, Cha-Am, and Pranburi, with 76 percent of launched units sold by the end of 2024. Buyer demographics reveal that 85 percent of units are sold to Thai nationals, with the remaining 15 percent purchased by foreign investors from countries such as Germany, the United States, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. At VEHHA Hua Hin, however, foreign buyers account for approximately 50% of current sales—significantly higher than the regional average—with most coming from the United States and European countries. This reflects strong international confidence in the project's design, quality, and alignment with global lifestyle expectations. Luxury rental yields in Hua Hin range between 4 to 6.5 percent annually, with VEHHA Hua Hin expected to deliver yields of 5.5 to 6 percent, making it an attractive option for investors seeking stable returns. A Vision for the Future Ms. Proudputh envisions Hua Hin as a "destination of the future", uniquely positioned to attract international demand despite domestic economic challenges. "Hua Hin offers a unique lifestyle rooted in wellness, blending natural beauty, cultural charm, and modern conveniences," she remarked. The scarcity of prime land in Hua Hin, particularly in central and beachfront locations, has made high-rise developments like VEHHA Hua Hin increasingly rare and sought-after. With its unrestricted ocean views, luxurious amenities, and award-winning design, VEHHA Hua Hin represents a transformative vision for the future of wellness living in Thailand. Don't Miss This Exclusive Opportunity For more information and exclusive offers, visit: Note: This press release contains forward-looking statements about market performance and investment returns. Actual results may vary. Investors should conduct their own due diligence before making investment decisions. Hashtag: #ProudRealestate #AllisWell #RommConvent #LuxuryWellnessResidences #CondoSathorn #CondoHighRise #Condo #Bangkok #CBD The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. PROUD REAL ESTATE PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED Proud Real Estate is Thailand's leading luxury wellness-focused property developer, renowned for creating holistic living environments that seamlessly integrate health optimization, sustainability, and timeless design. With a portfolio of internationally awarded projects, Proud Real Estate consistently delivers above-market investment returns while setting new benchmarks in luxury and resident well-being. The company gained global recognition for the development of one of only eight world-class branded residences under the InterContinental name—further solidifying Proud's reputation for excellence in luxury real estate. Proud Real Estate PLC
The National
7 days ago
- The National
The Ritz-Carlton Bangkok lives up to its luxury label, as one the city's newest high-end hotels
Bangkok 's once chaotic charm is being slowly reshaped by soaring towers and curated greenery, injecting the city with a sleek, revitalised energy. While the capital has long been a favourite among tourists, it has undergone some modern upgrades to keep pace with growing demand. Among the latest additions is the Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok, set within One Bangkok, a mixed-use development of luxury hotels, upscale residences, office towers and high-end retail spaces. The Ritz-Carlton opened here last December with 206 rooms spread over 25 floors of a 50-storey building. It features an outdoor pool, a spa, a 24-hour gym, and a club lounge with stunning views of the surrounding modernised cityscape. The National checked in for a two-night stay to discover what one of the newest five-star properties in the Thai capital has to offer. The welcome A direct overnight flight from Dubai to Bangkok with Emirates has me landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport around noon. It takes 45 minutes with traffic to reach the soaring skyscraper that houses The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok. As the car pulls up, staff in crisp uniforms greet me warmly. But the moment the doors open, I'm hit with a wave of heat and humidity that might even rival Abu Dhabi's sunniest days. Thankfully, I'm quickly ushered into a soaring, air-conditioned lobby, where polished black-and-white marble floors gleam beneath cascading chandeliers. At first glance, it feels like I've arrived at the hotel's main lobby – but it's actually the building's shared entrance, leading to a slightly confusing start. Soon enough, though, my group and I are guided to a set of lifts that whisk us up to the Ritz-Carlton's own reception area. The neighbourhood The property is located at One Bangkok, a modern, polished and still growing high-profile district. As part of an ambitious mixed-use development, it blends sleek office towers, luxury residences, upscale retail, and landscaped public spaces all within walking distance of Lumphini Park. The vibe is distinctly cosmopolitan, offering a balance between city energy and green escape. While parts of the project are already open, including some retail outlets and hotel components, other areas remain under construction, so it can feel quiet or unfinished in places. Thanks to its location near Lumphini MRT station and its walkable design, One Bangkok is well connected to nearby neighbourhoods such as Silom and Sathorn, where the city's dining and street culture come alive. The area is refined with a clean, upscale atmosphere that stands in contrast to the more chaotic charm of older districts. The room I'm checked into a 50-square-metre Deluxe King room on the 18th floor. The space exudes modern elegance, featuring warm wood, soft lighting, and a palette of creamy neutrals that come together to radiate a sense of calmness. What first catches my eye, though, is the view: floor-to-ceiling windows look out over Lumphini Park, its lush greenery offering a peaceful counterpoint to the city's dense sprawl – more reminiscent of New York City than Bangkok. One of the room's standout features is the semi-open layout: a sliding partition reveals the marble-clad bathroom, creating a seamless flow between the sleeping area and the bathing space. A touchscreen panel controls the lighting and other features. Amenities include a coffee and tea maker, minibar and complimentary bottled water. The bathroom is another highlight, complete with a separate bathtub and rain shower, double vanities, and a fully functional Japanese toilet. The final luxurious touch: a Dyson hair dryer. The service Thai hospitality is top-notch. The staff are knowledgeable about things to do and see around the hotel. They're keen to offer tips to help guests experience the best of Bangkok. One especially kind gesture came just before my spa appointment. After a runny nose during the flight, I was still feeling congested, and a spa hostess noticed. Without hesitation, she brought over a small inhaler tube and insisted I keep it. It was a small act, but one that captured the care and attentiveness that the hotel staff provided throughout my stay. The scene Whether looking for a refined tasting menu or something more casual, there are a few options on-site. Duet by David Toutain blends French techniques with natural ingredients. Lily's offers reimagined classics from open kitchens in a cosy, Thai-inspired setting. For something more relaxed, there's Caleo for drinks and afternoon tea with city views, and the Pool Bar for light bites. There are two outdoor swimming areas: a main infinity pool and a smaller one for children, both set on an open-air terrace overlooking the city and Lumphini Park. The gym is open 24 hours and is fitted with Technogym equipment, along with steam and sauna rooms. For those who want to relax and feel rejuvenated, there's the Ritz-Carlton Spa, where I get an enjoyable 60-minute massage that helps me unwind. It should be noted that appointments are required. The food Breakfast is at Lily's, the all-day restaurant on level seven. It is a semi-buffet set-up with a mix of cereals, fruits and cold cuts alongside Thai-influenced pastries such as a Thai tea lunar croissant and Chanthaburi chocolate pain suisse. There's also a congee and tom yum noodle station, plus an a la carte menu with standouts such as river prawn pad Thai, a fluffy golden crisp bean curd and Thai tea waffles. An impressive wall of fresh, cold-pressed juices is also on offer. Meanwhile, dinner is an eight-course menu (Dh326 per person) at Duet by David Toutain, which serves modern French cuisine in an elegant glasshouse setting also on level seven, styled in calming sage tones and botanical prints. The restaurant is led by Michelin-lauded chef David Toutain and Valentin Fouache, who bring experience from top kitchens in France and Thailand. The menu draws on Toutain's Normandy roots, which include experimenting with fresh ingredients. Before each course, I was handed a storytelling card that breaks down the star ingredient, such as the protein stats for miso or a reminder that black mole is dubbed the 'king of sauces' in Oaxacan cuisine. Highs and lows The hotel feels every bit as spectacular as you'd expect from a Ritz-Carlton property. From fully operational Kohler Japanese-style toilets to the Dyson hair dryer, excellent restaurant options and a decadent spa, no detail of luxury seems overlooked. That said, as the property is relatively new, a few teething issues remain. The most noticeable for me were the lifts. Guests need to tap their key cards before selecting a floor, but the system was inconsistent – sometimes the card wouldn't register, and other times it would automatically select a floor before I had a chance to do anything. Insider tip Be sure to visit the lobby during sunset for a marvellous photo opportunity, especially against one of the floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the park. The bottom line Pricing is dependent on the season and days of the week, with deluxe rooms starting at about $450 (Dh1,650) per night. Check-in is from 3pm and check-out is at noon.
