Elite Traveler Winter 2024/25

AMANZOE, VILLA 20

PORTO HELI, GREECE In part thanks to its location on Greece’s Peloponnese — a region that’s fi lled with scores of ancient Greek ruins — the incredible Amanzoe fi ndsnodi ffi culty in playing the role of a modern-day Acropolis. The architecture is striking and classical, and marble columns abound; visitors will be forgiven for thinking they may just have taken a trip back in time. From this precipice there are 360° views of local olive groves, as well as the majesty of the Aegean. Providing more swimming pools (11) than bedrooms (9), Villa 20 has curated an almost unmatched style of indoor-outdoor living. The ideal stay for a larger group, Villa 20 can accommodate 18 guests in fi ve 1,070-sq-ft pavilions and four luxury studio bedrooms. There’s also a private spa with a double treatment room, steam room and cold plunge pool, in addition to a game room that families will love. Best for Wellness From $55,000 per night. Contact Laetitia Pardo, director of sales & marketing, lpardo@aman.com, +30 698 059 5555, aman.com

ANDBEYOND SOSSUSVLEI DESERT LODGE, STAR DUNE SUITE SOSSUSVLEI, NAMIB-NAUKLUFT PARK, NAMIBIA Like the Namib Desert’s quiver trees or reedy plants sturdy enough to survive the world’s oldest desert’s harsh (but captivating) clime, eco-friendly andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge exudes a gravitas as profound as a whispered prayer. Architecturally composed of glass, stone and steel, it manages to shape-shift mystically into the swirls of sand. With just 10 suites, it weaves itself into the gravelly landscape punctuated by dunes and rocky promontories. Blessed with an enchanted light by day and deeply dark skies at night, the location feels further away from urbanity than you’ve ever been. The two-bedroom Star Dune Suite tempts with its captivating vistas and split-level living areas. Unfold immense glass panels to unveil uninterrupted desert views, or stand on the shaded veranda in awe. Swim laps in your personal pool, snuggle in front of the signature fi replace, whip up a cocktail from your all-inclusive mini-bar and linger in the glass- fl anked rain shower to peer out into the 180° panorama. Best for Wilderness From $4,772 per night. Contact dmc@andBeyond.com, +27 118 094 300, andbeyond.com

ATLANTIS THE ROYAL, THE ROYAL MANSION DUBAI, UAE When it opened in 2023, Atlantis The Royal captured headlines as Dubai’s new go-to luxury destination, aided by a Beyoncé performance rumored to be the most expensive private show in history. Now, almost two years later, its striking architecture and positioning on Crescent Road circling this city’s famous Palm development, ensures Atlantis The Royal remains one of Dubai’s fi nest stays. Sticking with the hotel’s regal theme, its most impressive suite, The Royal Mansion, is an expansive 12,100-sq-ft, four-bedroom penthouse. Interiors are suitably Dubai-esque — rooms gleam with gold accents aided by the fl ood of light that pours in through the sizable windows. There’s an in fi nity pool and a private foyer, which features an olive tree that’s over 100 years old. In the evenings, the private bar and outdoor terrace with views over the city prove excellent spots for unwinding. Best for Parties From $100,000 per night. Contact reservations, theroyal.reservations@atlantisdubai.com, +97 144 260 000, atlantis.com

AMAN CANAL GRANDE VENICE, ALCOVA TIEPOLO VENICE, ITALY

At Palazzo Papadopoli — one of eight sizable palazzos that line Venice’s Grand Canal — Aman Venice delivers a level of luxury absolutely worthy of this historic city-state. Rococo works of art are paired with the contemporary subtleties of Jean-Michel Gathy’s interiors to create a re fi ned ambience. Situated a short walk from the city’s central hub of Piazza San Marco, the hotel proves to be the ultimate base from which to explore the city. Those looking to fully immerse themselves in Italian heritage will adore the 1,108-sq-ft Alcova Tiepolo Suite, where guests are surrounded by 18th-century frescoes by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. Expect gilded ceilings and vast windows that gaze upon the hotel’s garden terrace and a beautifully painted sitting room with a fi replace. Best for Grandeur From $8,700 per night. Contact amanvenice.res@aman. com , +39 041 270 7333, aman.com