Elite Traveler Winter 2024/25

VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND, NIKA RESIDENCE MALDIVES Velaa Private Island has been attracting the world’s elite to its white sand shores since it opened 11 years ago, thanks to its alluring mix of privacy, exquisite facilities and exclusivity. Those with an eye for style will especially appreciate the Nika Residence, reimagined by renowned architect and designer Patricia Urquiola. Urquiola took inspiration from the pristine natural surroundings to create one of the most sophisticated (and largest at 14,250 sq ft) villas in the Maldives. Expansive indoor and outdoor spaces smoothly transition as the double-height vaulted lounge opens onto a sweeping 409-sq-ft terrace overlooking a private slice of white sand splendor. It is here where you will undoubtedly spend most of your time, either in the enormous pool or creating memories around

thesunken fi repit. Best for Beaches

From $23,000 per night. Contact Shareefa Abdulla, reservations and revenue manager, shareefa.abdulla@ velaaisland.com, +960 656 5000, velaaprivateisland.com

THE ST REGIS CHICAGO, TWO-BEDROOM PRESIDENTIAL SUITE CHICAGO Located on the ninth fl oor of the Jeanne Gang-designed skyscraper — the tallest in the world designed by a female architect — the Two-bedroom Presidential Suite at The St Regis Chicago has made its mark on the Windy City’s skyline. The interiors, crafted by KTGY Simeone Deary Design Group, pay homage to Chicago’s rich architectural legacy, blending modern elegance with subtle nods to the city’s heritage. In each of the bedrooms, a neutral palette is enhanced by soft greens and bright blues, re fl ecting Chicago’s natural surroundings. The suite’s master en-suite bathrooms feature deep-set soaking tub strategically positioned to o ff er unobstructed views of Chicago’s iconic skyline, making them the perfect spot to unwind while taking in the city’s breathtaking views. Best for City From $25,000 per night. Contact chicagosales@ stregis.com, +1 312 787 3447, stregischicago.com

TIERRA PATAGONIA, TWO-LEVEL SUITE TORRES DEL PAINE, CHILE Three granite spires pinpoint the spot: southern Patagonia’s legendary Torres del Paine National Park, a miraculous sprawl of wildness — glaciers, rivers, mountains — enveloped among untamed Chilean hinterlands. Known for its spellbinding, transformational solitude, the region attracts intrepid travelers, athletes and philosophers. Tierra Patagonia, pitched on the banks of Sarmiento Lake, architecturally mirrors the terrain. Designed by architect Cazú Zegers to summon thoughts of a colossal fossil unearthed, the extraordinary hotel has only 40 guest rooms, all sublime and roomy. Most spacious, the Two-level Suite, kitted out with minimalist fl air and rugged artfulness (think: blankets knitted in natural fi bers and crisp wood accents), delivers with a living area on top and a grand bedroom below. Floor-to ceiling windows pay homage to the prodigious wilderness that surrounds you at every turn. Best for Wilderness From $2,750 per night. Contact info@tierrahotels.com, +56 264 690 518, tierrapatagonia.com

WALDORF ASTORIA MALDIVES ITHAAFUSHI, THE PRIVATE ISLAND MALDIVES

Sometimes, the most luxurious thing a suite can o ff er is space and privacy — and the Private Island at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has both in abundance. Located in South Malé Atoll, Isthaafushi, it’s around a 40-minute yacht journey or 25-minute fl ight from the airport that feels like a million miles away from the rest of civilization. As the region’s largest private island, totaling just shy of 350,000 sq ft, there’s enough space for even the extended family, with room for 24 guests (18 adults and six children) across the island’s two beach and overwater villas and one four-bedroom residence. Best for Families From $65,000 per night. Contact mleon.hotel@waldorfastoria.com, +960 400 0300, waldorfastoriamaldives.com