Latest news with #VirginLimitedEdition
Business Insider
21-06-2025
- Business Insider
I work on Richard Branson's private island. My day can consist of a normal 9-to-5 or partying with guests until 4 a.m.
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Arran Main-McKendrick, 36, who is the deputy general manager of Necker Island. It has been edited for length and clarity. I drive a golf cart to the office. During the two-minute journey, I might bump into a giant tortoise, a kangaroo, or Richard Branson waving good morning. In April 2022, I started working at Richard Branson's Necker Island resort in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). I began as the guest services manager and, in January 2023, became the deputy general manager. Before I came to Necker, I worked as an events and sales manager in London. I've always kept my eye on Virgin Limited Edition because it felt more my pace. I'd lived abroad before working as a cast member for Walt Disney World in Florida for seven years after university, but I'd never lived on an island. I saw the head of guest services role, and I sent my résumé. They invited me for an interview, and I made it to the final stage. I told my husband we might have to move, and he said, "Alright. Let's do it." We didn't know much about Richard Branson's island I'd heard Necker Island was incredible, but apart from that, I didn't have any preconceptions. My husband and I applied for our visas and went for it — we've always been adventurous. We arrived by boat in April 2022. We'd moved our whole lives to this tiny island — it was amazing and nerve-racking. I remember going to the staff village and being greeted by my new co-workers who were having a party. The next morning, I could see Necker Island properly. It's total paradise. There are 24 rooms on the island, spread across the "Great House" and individual Balinese houses around the island. Necker also has two private beaches. Our conservation team looks after the island's giant tortoises and lemurs. Guests can book the island exclusively or non-exclusively with other guests from June to December. We don't really have a typical guest. People will come to Necker Island for a conference or to celebrate a birthday, and Richard brings a lot of philanthropic groups. We keep the identity of our guests close to our chests, but I've met people that I never would have expected to meet. My day-to-day work My responsibilities range from running logistics with the boat team to picking up guests, to chatting with engineers about the wind turbines, to helping housekeepers take linen off the bed. On a typical day, I'll go to the Great House and chat to the guests having breakfast about their evening. We will have a team briefing and go through the guests' plans for the day. A day could include kangaroo yoga, a lemur feed, lunch in Turtle Beach, and tennis in the afternoon. Sometimes I work 9-to-5, and sometimes I'm partying with the guests until 4 a.m. After work, we can go to the beach for sunset, but sometimes we'll put on Netflix. Other nights we'll leave the island. Many of the Necker staff are local and live on Tortola or our neighbouring island, Virgin Gorda. We also have an employee village on Necker Island. The cost of living in the BVI is surprisingly comparable to living in London. The island is paradise, but there have been hard days During our downtime, staff can use the island's amenities and go kite surfing, use the tennis courts, or go scuba diving. One of my favorite places on the island is the crow's nest: a hot tub on the roof of the Great House. I like watching the stars there because there's not much light pollution. When Richard Branson and his wife Joan aren't traveling, the island is their home, and we see them often. They are generous and kind, and often invite us to dinner. There have been challenging days, like when Hurricane Ernesto came through in 2024. We have a protocol on what to do, but it was one of the scariest nights I've had. We had to make sure the guests and staff were safe. A lot of objects were smashed, and we had 48 hours to get the island ready for the next guest coming in. You adapt quickly to island living I think everyone gets island fever now and again. We leave the island once a week. We've got staff boats that run to Virgin Gorda, where around 4,000 people live. We might go for dinner or even grocery shopping. Every Thursday, we have our groceries floated in on a barge that we order from a supermarket on Tortola, an island 30 minutes away by boat. I miss being able to pop to a coffee shop in London, but it's certainly saved me money. We miss our family and friends, but they can visit as we have special rates. You really need to visit to get the island energy, that's when it comes to life. It's amazing how quickly you adapt. The Necker staff are like a family, and we couldn't be happier here.
Hospitality Net
10-06-2025
- Hospitality Net
Virgin Limited Edition Unveils the New Look Mahali Mzuri
Mahali Mzuri, Sir Richard Branson's luxury tented safari camp in Kenya's famed Maasai Mara, and part of the Virgin Limited Edition collection, has officially re-opened following a full interior re-design. The re-opening is welcomed in time for guests to take their front row seats for the annual Great Migration, which typically occurs during July and August. Mahali Mazuri, meaning 'beautiful place', was born out of a passion to conserve the under-threat route of the Great Wildebeest Migration, in 2013. Today, with a refreshed look and feel, following its first ever full refurbishment, the camp's connection to its surrounding environment has been brought even further to the fore. Its 12 luxury tented suites retain their iconic peaked roofs, while the new addition of floor to ceiling glass windows provides guests with the ultimate panoramic viewing experience of the diverse wildlife and verdant valley beyond. The design of each tented suite, created in partnership with Lynne Hunt London, has been inspired by Maasai craftsmanship and the local culture that is an integral part of Mahali Mzuri's DNA. Textiles, hardware and custom furnishings were sourced from Nairobi-based suppliers such as Siafu, Matbronze and Nishit & Co, among others. Contemporary African design blends seamlessly with a collection of artworks by East African artists, such as Theresa Musoke and Dickens Otieno, curated by Circle Art Gallery, along with accents of intricate Maasai beadwork in the accessories and soft furnishings created by local nonprofit, The Maa Trust. Each tented suite features king-size or twin beds, a lounge area, separate walk-in shower and a freestanding bathtub overlooking the spectacular views of the valley and the abundant roaming wildlife, as well as a spacious private viewing deck. There is also a dedicated family tented suite featuring both a king-size bed and twin beds, as well as two en-suite bathrooms, one with a walk-in shower and the other with a freestanding bathtub. Complimentary minibars, stamped postcards and yoga mats provide extra special touches to the in-room amenities. Beyond the guest tents, the camp's communal open firepit area, with its panoramic views, offers a central space for stargazing and wildlife watching. The new design concept extends to the restaurant and bar, which also overlook the stunning scenery, while the infinity swimming pool area has been transformed with the addition of cabanas featuring striking red and black soft furnishings, in a nod to traditional Maasai attire. As with all Virgin Limited Edition properties, sustainability is at the forefront, with a large solar farm, a rainwater harvesting system in place, and a large kitchen garden and greenhouse, which supplies the chefs with home-grown organic fruit, vegetables and herbs. The new staff uniforms have also been created by Kenyan heritage fashion brand Kikoromeo, utilising locally available, natural and biodegradable materials. Mahali Mzuri's longstanding partnership with the local landowners and surrounding communities remains at the heart of the camp, which employs over 80% of its staff from the local area. Alongside twice daily game drives, bush walks with Maasai warriors and hot air balloon safaris in search of the Big Five, guests equally have numerous opportunities to engage with the local Maasai tribe through the work of the camp's charitable arm, Inua Jamii - meaning 'uplifting the community'. From volunteering at the primary school, built and run by Mahali Mzuri and funded by generous guest donations, to experiencing life in the local manyatta. Hotel website
Travel Daily News
10-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
Virgin Limited Edition unveils the new Mahali Mzuri look
Mahali Mzuri reopens with a full redesign, offering enhanced luxury, panoramic views, and deeper cultural immersion ahead of Kenya's Great Migration season. Mahali Mzuri, Sir Richard Branson's luxury tented safari camp in Kenya's famed Maasai Mara, and part of the Virgin Limited Edition collection, has officially re-opened following a full interior re-design. The re-opening is welcomed in time for guests to take their front row seats for the annual Great Migration, which typically occurs during July and August. Mahali Mazuri, meaning 'beautiful place', was born out of a passion to conserve the under-threat route of the Great Wildebeest Migration, in 2013. Today, with a refreshed look and feel, following its first ever full refurbishment, the camp's connection to its surrounding environment has been brought even further to the fore. Its 12 luxury tented suites retain their iconic peaked roofs, while the new addition of floor to ceiling glass windows provides guests with the ultimate panoramic viewing experience of the diverse wildlife and verdant valley beyond. The design of each tented suite, created in partnership with Lynne Hunt London, has been inspired by Maasai craftsmanship and the local culture that is an integral part of Mahali Mzuri's DNA. Textiles, hardware and custom furnishings were sourced from Nairobi-based suppliers such as Siafu, Matbronze and Nishit & Co, among others. Contemporary African design blends seamlessly with a collection of artworks by East African artists, such as Theresa Musoke and Dickens Otieno, curated by Circle Art Gallery, along with accents of intricate Maasai beadwork in the accessories and soft furnishings created by local nonprofit, The Maa Trust. Each tented suite features king-size or twin beds, a lounge area, separate walk-in shower and a freestanding bathtub overlooking the spectacular views of the valley and the abundant roaming wildlife, as well as a spacious private viewing deck. There is also a dedicated family tented suite featuring both a king-size bed and twin beds, as well as two en-suite bathrooms, one with a walk-in shower and the other with a freestanding bathtub. Complimentary minibars, stamped postcards and yoga mats provide extra special touches to the in-room amenities. Beyond the guest tents, the camp's communal open firepit area, with its panoramic views, offers a central space for stargazing and wildlife watching. The new design concept extends to the restaurant and bar, which also overlook the stunning scenery, while the infinity swimming pool area has been transformed with the addition of cabanas featuring striking red and black soft furnishings, in a nod to traditional Maasai attire. James Bermingham, CEO of Virgin Hotels Collection, commented: 'I am delighted to be unveiling the new-look Mahali Mzuri as we go into the Great Migration season. We strive to create the most extraordinary experiences for our guests, and we're excited to be able to offer an even more luxurious safari experience, along with a seamless connection to the surrounding nature and authentic local Maasai culture.' As with all Virgin Limited Edition properties, sustainability is at the forefront, with a large solar farm, a rainwater harvesting system in place, and a large kitchen garden and greenhouse, which supplies the chefs with home-grown organic fruit, vegetables and herbs. The new staff uniforms have also been created by Kenyan heritage fashion brand Kikoromeo, utilising locally available, natural and biodegradable materials. Mahali Mzuri's longstanding partnership with the local landowners and surrounding communities remains at the heart of the camp, which employs over 80% of its staff from the local area. Alongside twice daily game drives, bush walks with Maasai warriors and hot air balloon safaris in search of the Big Five, guests equally have numerous opportunities to engage with the local Maasai tribe through the work of the camp's charitable arm, Inua Jamii – meaning 'uplifting the community'. From volunteering at the primary school, built and run by Mahali Mzuri and funded by generous guest donations, to experiencing life in the local manyatta.
New York Post
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Wild at heart: Finch Hattons offers unforgettable luxury safari adventures in Kenya
Keep your camera at the ready. At Finch Hattons Safari Camp in Kenya, a tower of preening giraffes might strike a pose next to your Land Cruiser. Or a parched elephant could set a thirst trap by drinking in a private plunge pool. 14 The gorgeously decorated luxury Family Suites have elevated viewing decks overlooking the hippo pools. Virgin Limited Edition A stay at the property, part of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition portfolio, promises countless photo ops, from rhinos and crocodiles wallowing in natural springs to an Oxpecker catching a ride on a zebra's back. It's an out-of-this world experience. Set in Tsavo West National Park about 150 miles west of Nairobi, the camp is named after British aristocrat, aviator and hunter-turned-anti-poacher Denys George Finch-Hatton, best known as the lover of Karen Blixen in her memoir, 'Out of Africa.' The handsome adventurer, who died tragically in a 1931 plane crash, was played by Robert Redford in the Oscar-winning movie of the same name. The famed property, established more than 30 years ago, is every bit as swoon-worthy as its namesake hero. There are 14 luxury tented suites, each beautifully appointed with a private deck, antique rugs, an Old-World writing desk, bronze soaker bathtub, king-sized bed and complimentary maxi bar. And to be clear, apart from their mosquito-proof netted walls, these sumptuous villas bear no resemblance to camping tents. Two spacious two-bedroom suites accommodate families while the deluxe Finch Hattons Suite comes with a heated plunge pool as well as a dedicated butler, game-drive vehicle and guide. It's the perfect romantic hideaway for honeymooners and VIPs. 14 The Finch Hattons Suite has a private heated plunge pool as well as a dedicated butler, game-drive vehicle and guide. Virgin Limited Edition 14 All 17 tented suites have roofs made of sustainably harvested makuti palm leaves. Virgin Limited Edition Days start early, as animals are most active before first light and the temperature is cooler before first light. After coffee, tea and freshly squeezed fruit juice at the pavilion, vehicles depart promptly at 6 a.m. on morning game drives. A chef-cooked breakfast is served al fresco on the savannah or back at the camp. Finch's team of incredibly knowledgeable Maasai guides are expert at spotting wildlife, from the mythic Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, African buffalo and rhinoceros – to hundreds of bird species. Also roving are the Ugly Five: the spotted hyena, wildebeest, vulture, marabou stork and the hideous warthog. While there is no guarantee of a big cat sighting on any safari, rangers do their utmost to locate apex predators. Guests are assured of seeing Tsavo's famous soil-stained 'red elephants,' buffalo, giraffes and zebra, which parade on the plains. One thing visitors will likely not encounter: another 4×4. There are fewer lodges and tourists in Tsavo than, say, the Maasai Mara, so you will likely have the bush to yourself. 14 Tsavo's famous 'red elephants,' named for the ruddy soil that stains their hide, entertain visitors on game drives. Virgin Limited Edition 14 Giraffes are often seen ambling the bush and pruning the trees. Virgin Limited Edition 14 Finch Hattons partners with the Kenya Wildlife Service, Amara Conservation and the Tsavo Trust, among other organizations, to conserve Kenya's wildlife and its habitats. Virgin Limited Edition Our ranger, Matthew, taught us about animal behaviors, identified tracks and bird calls (like the ring-necked dove's trill, which sounds like a cell phone) and also shared information about Maasai traditions and his village. He was very funny, quipping for instance that a strutting male baboon was 'acting like a branch manager,' so his passengers were always laughing. It's worth getting up the middle of the night for the 4:30 a.m. drive and hike up the Chyulu Hills, with breakfast on the crest. As the day dawns, the sky is streaked fiery orange and pink, and Mt. Kilimanjaro stands majestic in the distance. A nature walk in the cloud forest with its sacred Mugumo tree swings, formed naturally by the aerial roots, concludes the unforgettable outing. 14 As the sun rises atop Chyulu Hills, the panoramic views are spectacular. Virgin Limited Edition 14 After an afternoon expedition, 'sundowner' cocktails and canapés are served. Virgin Limited Edition Afternoon game drives might also include a trip to the Shetani lava flow, a dark and jagged landscape that stretches five miles, followed by sundowners and the Maasai Olympics on the savannah. The staff taught guests to spear-throw, play 'bush basketball' with a rungu club and shoot arrows at a target. It was a magical evening. Another highlight was a visit to a nearby Maasai village where guests were invited to enter a traditional manyatta house made of wood, mud, cow dung and ash. A brief torrential rainstorm made the visit even more memorable, as everyone sheltered together under umbrellas and tarps. While it's not necessary to bring money, guests might wish to make a donation to the village or buy the traditional handmade beaded and metal crafts. When not on game drives or lounging at the acacia-fringed pool, guests can book body and face treatments and massages at Chyulu Spa, the largest holistic wellness center in the East African bush. The soothing space features two treatment rooms, a hammam and a gym, while yoga classes are offered on an outdoor deck overlooking the facility's infinity pool. 14 Guests can relax at the infinity pool between game drives and hikes. Virgin Limited Edition 14 Chyulu Spa has an infinity pool, two treatment rooms, a yoga deck, hammam, gym and relaxation area. Virgin Limited Edition 14 An elegant outdoor pavilion with a thatched roof is where most meals are served. Virgin Limited Edition The superb farm-to-fork restaurant is better than many New York hotspots. Executive chef Sudi Baha helms the kitchen, which makes everything on site, from the bread to the ice cream. Lunch and dinner start with a delicious soup, often prepared with vegetables and herbs from the organic garden, followed by a choice of entrées and desserts. Guests looked forward to every meal. In the evening, patrons might sip a gin and tonic (mixed with Nairobi's award-winning Procero Blue Dot gin and a pinch of its flavor-enhancing botanical salts) in the Karen Blixen Lounge. Or they could watch 'Out of Africa' on a movie screen under the stars. 14 Step back in time at the Karen Blixen Lounge, decorated with antiques and artifacts. Virgin Limited Edition 14 Guests can sip cocktails or watch 'Out of Africa' on an outdoor movie screen in the boma area. Virgin Limited Edition When it's time to call it a night, a flashlight-toting guard or two will escort guests to their rooms, listening and watching carefully for wildlife. After all, animals roam free, just as nature intended. Rooms from $990 per person per night during low season and $1,450 per person per night during high season. Rates include all meals and a selection of drinks, return Finch Hattons airstrip transfers, park fees and scheduled activities including game drives and local excursions. To get to the property, guests fly to Nairobi, then take a charter or scheduled plane to the property's airstrip. 14 Daybreak at the Finch Hattons Suite viewing deck. Virgin Limited Edition
Morocco World
18-03-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco's Kasbah Tamadot Ranked Among the World's Best Places for 2025
Rabat – Morocco's Kasbah Tamadot hotel has earned a spot on the Time magazine's World's Greatest Places 2025 list. Located in the town of Asni in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains near Marrakech, the hotel ranked 17th globally and 4th in Africa. Kasbah Tamadot is known for its blend of traditional Amazigh architecture and modern luxury. It prides itself on offering visitors a unique and serene experience amid breathtaking nature and mountain landscapes. The Time magazine described the hotel as a 'luxury retreat' that ' combines the charming mud brick design of a kasbah draped in locally handmade textiles with luxurious amenities such as an infinity pool and spa.' The hotel, which is part of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition collection, was once a governor's residence in the 1920s. The magazine noted that Kasbah Tamadot is about a 45-minute drive from Marrakech Airport, which now has a direct United Airlines flight from Newark. After the devastating earthquake in September 2023, Kasbah Tamadot was restored and reopened in October, adding six new three-bedroom riads, a new restaurant, and a kids' club, the magazine added. It now has a total of 15 bedrooms in the main kasbah, 10 luxury tents, and three superior suites. The magazine also noted the hotel's support for the local community, as all of its staff come from nearby villages, and through the Eve Branson Foundation, it has set up a carpet workshop and craft center for local women, as well as carpentry training programs. In addition, an Earthquake Relief Fund is helping to rebuild schools and homes for those affected by the disaster. The ranking elevates Morocco's growing reputation in the luxury tourism sector, which attracts millions of tourists each year. The country welcomed a total of 17.4 million visitors in 2024, reaching its 2026 goal two years ahead of schedule.
