WORLDVIEWCAPTURE: Destinations

Tuesday

7 unique places to stay on your next trip to Australia

The diversity and scale of Australia’s natural splendour is breathtaking. From humblingly huge desert and otherworldly rock formations to gnarled, ancient rainforest and the world’s largest coral reef, the range of sights to see is vast. As is the range of accommodation you can book.

For an unforgettable trip, try glamping in a remote part of the Outback, enjoy an authentic Aussie station (farm or ranch) experience or spend the night in a grand, historic Melbourne hotel.

A glampsite in the Outback, Karijini National Park

A glampsite in the Outback, Karijini National Park, Western Australia

Found deep within Karijini National Park, Karijini Eco Retreat provides a luxury experience while immersed in the sublime natural beauty of the Outback. Just a short hike from your glamping tent, you’ll find the rich red rock of Joffre Gorge, a natural amphitheatre with a pool of water and a pebbled rock island in the middle. Other park highlights include the stunning, year-round Fortescue Falls and Mount Bruce, whose summit trail rewards you with breathtaking views of the majestic and empty, arid landscape. Camping in the Bush also offers almost unparalleled stargazing, so be sure to pull up a pew on your tent’s private deck when the sun goes down. The sound of dingos and owls howling and hooting in the distance as you fall asleep in the comfort of your big double bed, adds to the element of adventure.

A beachfront villa, Byron Bay

A beachfront villa, Byron Bay, New South Wales

For laid-back Aussie beach life with a touch of luxury, plenty of privacy and your very own swimming pool, Fat Frog Beach Houses is the perfect choice. The holiday home is located just a short walk from the captivating beach in Byron Bay, the mellow surf town that’s long been known for its surfer and hippie communities. If the novelty of fantastic waves and sunning yourself on the sand wears off, hike up to Cape Byron Lighthouse to touch the most easterly point of Australia.

A harbourside apartment, Sydney

A harbourside apartment, Sydney, New South Wales

For those who want a taste of city life Down Under, a stay beside Sydney’s spectacular harbour is a great place to start. At Milson Serviced Apartments, some apartments have sweeping views of the Harbour Bridge, Lavender Bay and the city’s stunning skyline. You’ll also be in close proximity to many key sights, including the Opera House and the Royal Botanic Garden.

Australia

Destinations

Monday

Skatch Restaurant Abuja -Nigeria

When I heard that Sketch had opened a branch in Abuja, I knew it was only a matter of time before my wallet and I showed up. I also knew they served Egyptian cuisine and had been looking forward to trying it for the first time, so coming here was quite exciting.

First, let's talk about looks. Walking into Sketch is, quite literally, like walking into a storybook. The restaurant is created with 2D/3D features from top to bottom, creating a bizarre but intriguing atmosphere. It also adds to the overall dining experience, which is something you always want when you go out to dine.

I was looking forward to a wonderful supper after I was seated and given the menu, however none of the items on the menu that I desired were available. I had to settle for the kebab and kofta with grilled chicken wings and potatoes, which was little unpleasant. My dinner took around 25 minutes to prepare, and when it arrived, the amounts were extremely little in proportion to the prices. But I reasoned that the taste would not bother me.

The chicken wings were ok, nothing special and well within the acceptable range, but the fries were fantastic; I could tell they were made with fresh potatoes, which is fantastic. Fresh potato fries and frozen potato fries from a plastic bag are clearly different, iykyk.

To the kebab and kofta: I was ecstatic when I spotted kebab because I honestly believe North-Eastern Africa knows how to create banging meat. Sketch's kebab wasn't really kebab-like (I almost don't want to talk about it), but the naan that came with it was delicious and fresh. Unfortunately, the naan, fries, and beverages (I had the Mooly and Arnold Palmer cocktails) were the only things I really liked about this place, which is a shame.

Basically, if you're going to eat here, bring a big budget because it's not cheap and the amounts aren't proportionate. I wouldn't recommend this restaurant for a date because it's really loud, but it's perfect for lunch with friends or a night out.

Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · No delivery

Address: opposite premier hotel, Wuse 904101, Abuja

Daily captures

5 soulful yoga retreat destinations

Numerous people have taken sanctuary in the quiet practice of yoga during the last year. With travel once again on the upswing, we discovered that one in four travelers will prioritize relaxation on their next vacation. If you're wanting to combine your mind, body, and travel, take a look at our list of the world's most revitalizing yoga retreats.

COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali, Indonesia

Infinity pool and outdoor showers in lush green surroundings at COMO Shambhala Estate

Nestled in a lush tropical enclave, Shambhala Estate is the ideal place to relax in Bali. At this luxury yoga retreat, stone steps paved along meandering waterways lead to private residences, and infinity pools overlook the dense jungle canopy. A stay here is guaranteed to cleanse your body of the stresses of daily life – even without a round of yoga.

However, if mindfulness is on your mind, Shambhala Estate offers a comprehensive menu of holistic health services, including meditation, Pilates, yoga, and hydrotherapy. Are you looking for a more personalized experience? Internationally certified teachers at the estate will gladly create a personalized wellness plan for you.

Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa, Taghazout, Morocco

Yoga class on the beach at Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa

Situated in the rustic fishing village of Taghazout, Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa is a 300-acre oasis of calm and fun. From focusing on your breathwork at seaside yoga workshops to losing said breath in an intense surf lesson, there’s no shortage of enjoyment here.

After a sun-kissed yoga session, tuck into healthy organic food at the resort’s restaurant and savor a selection of fresh food and juices to refuel after practice. End your day with a massage or treat yourself to a cocktail while gazing out at the sun as it sinks into the Atlantic.

Bali, Indonesia

Destinations

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The ultimate Santorini summer home escapes

Immerse yourself completely in Greek island life in an idyllic villa on the island of Santorini, where you can swim in a cobalt-blue sea, drive through tranquil whitewashed villages in search of your morning Spanakopita (spinach and feta pastry), and sunbathe in blazing sunshine when it's safe to do so. Your only issue will be determining the optimal vantage point from which to take in the island's dreamlike panoramas.

Continue reading to learn about Santorini's most popular flexible holiday houses, as assessed by global travellers.

Anemi House & Villas

The infinitely-instagrammable colour palette of Anemi House & Villas

A traditional Santorini cave house painted pink, lilac, and blue, Anemi House & Villas is as photogenic as the caldera itself. It’s laid out like a rabbit warren, with gray stone stairs and private pockets of terrace punctuated by a plunge pool. Shaded by olive and palm trees beside overflowing flower pots, you’ll have a wide choice of places to enjoy a glass of wine in the evening sun. The house has everything you could ever want on vacation: An attentive but unobtrusive owner, Dimitris, beautiful monochrome suites varying from bright white to royal blue and hot pink, 360-degree views of the island from the rooftop, outdoor hot tubs, and lots of local markets.

Ikia Kriton

Have a glass of wine with a surreal Aegean Sea backdrop at Ikia Kriton

This historic stone house is perched on the cliffs above Santorini's caldera, a crater that was partially buried by the Aegean Sea following a volcanic eruption some 3,600 years ago. Views out onto this half-moon-shaped bay are widely sought after, and each year, hundreds of thousands of travellers flock here to see beautiful sunsets over whitewashed cottages, a sapphire blue sea, and maroon cliffs. The unobstructed view of the island from the expansive terrace of this property is a priceless asset and a lovely setting for an early morning coffee or a nightcap provided to you by welcome hosts Kriton and Eirini, a mother and son duo.

Santorini, Greece

Destinations

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The ultimate Santorini summer home escapes

Five destinations for an unforgettable babymoon

Just before the arrival of your little one, it’s a great idea to take some time to unwind, with many soon-to-be parents planning relaxing getaways – often called babymoons. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious retreat or a lowkey hideaway, we put together our top five locations to enjoy before your little bundle of joy makes its grand entrance.

Miami Beach, Florida

Soak up the sun by the swimming pool in Miami Beach.

A babymoon should be all about letting go. Despite its party scene, Miami Beach is a surprisingly zen destination. Try the fresh and breezy rooms of 1 Hotel South Beach, where you can spend hours by one of their four swimming pools. Lay back on a lounge chair, sip a refreshing beverage, and take in the hotel’s jaw-dropping sea views. It’s also just a short drive away from glamorous shopping and dining locations if you decide to venture out during your stay.

Destinations

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