What’s new, March 2025
THE RIDE OF YOUR LIFE
The Tailor, Australia
For a luxury mountain biking experience like no other The Tailor suggests Blue Derby Pods Ride in the pristine wilderness of northeast Tasmania. Perfect for adventurers looking for an experience as exhilarating as it is comfortable, the 2- to 4-day trips are led by expert guides and carefully curated to suit all skill levels. Trips take guests through the world-renowned 100km Blue Derby trail network, covering diverse terrain and some truly breathtaking scenery including rainforest, waterfalls, lakes and even the sensational beaches of the Bay of Fires on the island’s East coast.
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But this is no rough and ready rainforest experience: guests stay in one of just four eco-friendly, architect-designed sleeping pods in the heart of the forest, overlooking the Cascade River Valley, where your nighttime view is of nothing but the tree canopy and stars. Meals are prepared by a chef in the impressive central Hub, a dramatic double-height dining space, all warm wood tones and contemporary design, and the gourmet cuisine is made using almost exclusively local Tasmanian produce, all complemented by a great selection of wines. The team can also arrange a floating sauna on Lake Derby nearby to help guests unwind after a long day on the trails
JOIN THE JET SET
Ahipara, New Zealand
Ahipara has reintroduced its much-loved jet boat picnic experience, one of its most popular exclusive excursions. Not many day trips can claim to be exhilarating, peaceful and delicious at the same time, but this one really can.
The day starts with a high-speed ride down the Makarora and Wilkin rivers, showcasing these special boats’ incredible manoeuvrability (the jet boat was invented in New Zealand, specifically as a means of transport for farmers, fishermen and hunters to access the backcountry). This isn't one of those popular tourist thrill rides, but the real thing, with an expert driver picking a complex route through shallows, avoiding boulders, gravel banks, trees and sometimes even cattle!
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Then it’s time to let the adrenaline settle as you stop on the banks of the Makarora for a barbecue lunch and a drink or two, hosted and cooked for by locals. Relax and take in the spectacular mountain scenery, sheltered by ancient forest before, suitably refreshed, jetting down to the headwaters of Lake Wanaka for more fun. A true jet-set experience!
THE HEART OF THE FOREST
Sticky Rice Travel, Borneo
One of the oldest rainforests on Earth, Borneo’s 140-million-year-old Danum Valley remains virtually untouched. This sanctuary, rich in biodiversity, offers nature enthusiasts the opportunity to connect with an ancient landscape and the varied wildlife it protects.
For the most comfortable stay, Sticky Rice Travel recommends staying at the eco-friendly Borneo Rainforest Lodge, which has just unveiled its new swimming pool among the trees. The lodge is also in the process of expanding as it looks to cater better to the luxury market; in addition to the jungle chalets and two-storey premium villa, restaurant and bar, from 2027 there will be a spectacular new nine-room lodge with its own swimming pool, restaurant and communal areas, all designed with the most discerning travellers in mind.
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In the meantime, BRL has recently added a wellness package, including a morning dew bath in the forest, specially designed menus, massages and other treatments. And whilst not new, we love the option to cool off in the natural rock pools at the nearby Fairy Falls, or enjoy a private breakfast in the wild, surrounded by towering trees and all the sounds and aromas of the ancient forest.
THE ART OF INDIA
Banyan, India
Visitors to Jaipur have some wonderful new cultural treats in store, according to Banyan. There’s the fifth iteration of Sculpture Park Jaipur, a site-specific exhibition of works by Indian and international artists, this year being held for the first time in the impressive surroundings of Jaigarh Fort to the north of the city and including pieces by Anish Kapoor, Hiroshi Sugimoto, Manjunath Kamath.
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There’s also the newly opened Jaipur Centre for Art in the spectacular City Palace, created to showcase modern contemporary Indian and global art; for anyone heading to Jaipur immediately, there’s currently an excellent exhibition by Goan artist Dayanita Singh to enjoy.
And Banyan also insists that, whether art is on the itinerary or not, a visit to the new Palace Atelier is a must. This glorious jewellery box of a museum shop/concept store is filled with must-have gifts and trinkets, from clothing to jewellery and books. And of course, Banyan would be more than happy to arrange visits to any or all of the above.
PEDAL POWER
ITEM, Türkiye
According to ITEM, no trip to Istanbul is now complete without trying the latest craze: water biking. Eco-friendly and with plenty of novelty value, it’s a unique way to see the city from the Bosphorus, offering an exhilarating yet peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle.
Unlike traditional boat tours, a water bike allows you to actively engage with the city from the sea, giving you the freedom to navigate at your own pace, cruising over the water, the breeze on your face as you glide between two continents.
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For guests who really take their cycling seriously, ITEM offers the opportunity to elevate this experience further by riding in the company of one of the country’s top international cyclists, former Turkish national team coach and president of the country’s Cycling Association, Murat Suyabatmaz. Pedalling side by side, you’ll have the chance to learn about his remarkable career, as well as gaining some top cycling tips as you pass beneath the Bosphorus Bridge, admire the grandeur of Ottoman-era palaces, or spot quaint fishing villages; every moment will feel like an fascinating adventure.
CITY STYLE
Galavanta, Colombia
Galavanta has highlighted five recent boutique openings in Cartagena's Walled City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, that each celebrate the country’s artisan heritage and Latin flair. Even better news: Galavanta will happily arrange closed-door access for guests to any or all of them (with champagne, naturally), with the additional option to shop in the company of a top local stylist.
Known for laid-back luxury and vibrant prints celebrating Colombia’s biodiversity, Johanna Ortiz offers handmade pieces that preserve local craftsmanship, tropical-inspired clothes made with natural fibers, and unique homewares that capture the essence of Cartagena’s Caribbean spirit.
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Run by a third-generation sister duo, resort wear brand Waimari blends traditional textiles with feminine silhouettes: think fine lace, ruffles and embroidery that are perfect for Cartagena’s sultry days and nights
Casa Malva, a multi-brand boutique of Colombian designers, has opened a branch in a charming colonial-era building in the walled city, offering a curated collection of emerging and established designers with ready to wear, accessories and shoes.
For casual and cool Caribbean vibes, visit Mayorga’s new flagship store. With funky prints and bold motifs, the brand’s swimwear, coordinated sets, maxi dresses and accessories will take you effortlessly from the pool to lunch.
Juan De Dios’s signature joyful sophistication is inspired by the tropical landscapes of Colombia’s wild Pacific region. At his new boutique, find swimwear and ready-to-wear pieces made with exquisite materials and local handcraft techniques. With Galavanta, you can even personalise your own pareo alongside the brand’s design team
HOT PROPERTIES
Enigma, Peru
Ananay hotels, the team behind Villa Barranco in Lima and Palacio Manco Capac in Cusco, has opened two beautiful new hotels in Peru.
In Cusco, the 4* Casa Clara, on Plaza Nazarenas, the city’s most exclusive square, brings some boutique charm to a neighborhood known for its high-end properties, including Belmond’s Palacio Nazarenas and Monasterio hotels, and Relais & Châteaux's La Cason.
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Housed in an elegant baroque-style manor house, the decor blends thoughtful design with traditional and contemporary cultural details. There are eight beautifully designed suites and the food is refined yet simple, centered around an elegant bar serving local Peruvian piqueos.
Meanwhile, the southern city of Arequipa now boasts the 5* Palacio Guaqui in another restored colonial-era mansion, adding a much-needed high-end accommodation option to the area. The impressive building boasts five-metre barrel vaulted ceilings and three gloriously stylish terraces, while the 18 rooms are designed using elements of Peruvian culture and style. There is also an elegant bar and a restaurant serving traditional Arequipeñan dishes.