Elite Traveler Winter 2024/25

elite traveler WINTER 2024/25 41

Welcome

What is it that you look for in a hotel suite? Is it fl amboyant yet chic decor by a renowned designer? Or perhaps some mind-blowing amenities like an in-suite spa or fi nding your bedroom 16-ft under water? Maybe you’re looking to get as o ff -grid as you can possibly get on this planet and head into a futuristic camp on the seventh continent. Or, you might be looking beyond what the suite

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Alex Martin dictates

proceedings at the Elite Traveler giftguide photoshoot

itself is and are more interested in what experiences come with it — from Rolls-Royce transfers to a custom fi reworks display over your massive in fi nity pool. Whatever you are looking for, you’re sure to fi nd it in our Top 100 Suites list on page 94. As it’s the season for giving, we’ve curated our gift guide on page 69 — bursting with divine goodies, from sparkling diamonds to sleek accessories to top-shelf bottles. If you’re in the market for a slightly bigger toy, Natasha Bird takes Aston Martin’s new Vanquish for a spin, and Becca Hensley investigates a new cruise ship where you can purchase a home on board for a life at sea. Our In fl uence section nods towards the party season, too, with two features centered around champagne — Emma Al-Mousawi visits Ruinart’s cutting-edge new maison while Grace Taylor heads to Paris to celebrate a special (and delicious) milestone with Krug. Skiers, snowboarders or those who just love a bit of après — head to page 154 for our in-depth guide to St Moritz. If you’d rather spend days at sea, our Hot List deals with two exciting voyages — Kim Ayling and I sail the Med on board The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s latest vessel, while John O’Kelly has a profound experience on board Four Seasons Explorer Palau. We also look at two interesting new openings — the Regent Santa Monica Beach and Eriro in Austria.

KimAyling sets sail on TheRitz Carlton Yacht Collection’s latest launch, the790-ft Ilma

Natasha Bird gets behind thewheel of thenew Aston Martin Vanquish

Samantha Coles Editor samantha.coles@elitetraveler.com

Grace Taylor heads to Paris for a special afternoon with Krug