GLAM / AMOUR

In today’s hectic and fast-paced lifestyle, the yearning for escapes that rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul has never been more pronounced. With the weight of everyday demands, the pursuit of extraordinary getaways has become a necessity rather than a luxury.

For those who spare no expense in their quest for transformative experiences, the world offers sanctuaries that transcend the ordinary. Join Glam/Amour as we take you on a journey through three spellbinding locations that redefine indulgence and elevate travel to an art form. Luxury travel isn’t merely about a destination; it’s about the transformative experience, the surreal settings, and the unforgettable memories that come along with it.

For those seeking to escape into worlds where nature, architecture, and luxury intertwine seamlessly, here are three spellbinding locations that redefine indulgence: Jade Mountain in St. Lucia, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, and the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland in China.

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia: A Celestial Escape

Perched high above the Caribbean Sea, Jade Mountain in St. Lucia is a sanctuary of architectural brilliance and natural harmony. Designed by visionary architect Nick Troubetzkoy, this resort offers a symphony of open spaces that blend seamlessly with the UNESCO World Heritage Pitons.

Imagine waking up in your private infinity pool suite—or as they call it, a “sanctuary“—with no fourth wall to obstruct your view. The design allows you to feel as though you’re floating in the heart of nature. The uninterrupted panorama of the Caribbean Sea merges with the lush green slopes of the Pitons, creating a living artwork that shifts with the sunlight. Each suite, individually named after precious gemstones like “Jade” and “Amethyst,” exudes elegance with handcrafted furnishings, vibrant tropical accents, and open-air designs that invite the outdoors inside.

Activities & Gastronomy: Beyond its design, Jade Mountain is a haven for exploration. Take a guided hike through the nearby volcanic peaks, explore the vibrant marine life through scuba diving, or indulge in a rejuvenating spa experience. Culinary enthusiasts will revel in “Jade Cuisine,” where every dish is crafted with locally sourced ingredients, reflecting St. Lucia’s rich flavors.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island: Underwater Fantasy

Nestled in the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers an experience so surreal it feels otherworldly. Known for its unparalleled blend of luxury, innovation, and natural beauty, this resort is an oasis spread across two private islands connected by a 500-meter footbridge. Together, they offer guests a harmonious blend of lush tropical greenery and pristine white-sand beaches, surrounded by the tranquil azure waters of the Maldives.

Aqua-Living Extravaganza: The highlight? The Muraka, the world’s first underwater residence. This two-level villa is a masterpiece of design and imagination, featuring a master bedroom submerged 16 feet below sea level. Floor-to-ceiling windows surround the underwater suite, creating an immersive experience where guests can watch manta rays glide by and vibrant schools of fish dance in the current. It’s a mesmerizing connection to the marine world, enhanced by luxurious interiors, from bespoke furnishings to state-of-the-art amenities. Above sea level, the villa offers an infinity pool, expansive sun deck, and private butler service, ensuring every whim is met with effortless grace.

The resort’s other accommodations are equally spectacular. From overwater villas with glass floors offering glimpses of the sea life below to beachfront retreats nestled in lush foliage, each space is designed to offer unrivaled comfort and breathtaking views. The rooms blend contemporary elegance with Maldivian charm, ensuring an intimate connection with nature.

For the adventurous, the resort’s house reef provides world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities. Guests can encounter an array of marine life, including reef sharks, parrotfish, and vibrant coral gardens. For those seeking relaxation, the resort’s overwater spa pavilions provide treatments inspired by ancient Maldivian healing traditions, leaving you utterly rejuvenated.

Culinary Wonders: Dining at Conrad Maldives is nothing short of theatrical. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, set five meters below the ocean, offers an immersive dining experience where gourmet dishes are served amidst a 180-degree view of coral gardens. The glass-domed restaurant creates the illusion of dining within an aquarium, enhancing every bite with the magic of the ocean. Other dining highlights include the open-air Rangali Bar, where you can enjoy sunset cocktails paired with Maldivian delicacies, and a range of international cuisine that caters to every palate.

InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland: The Underground Marvel

From paradisiacal islands to subterranean grandeur, the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland in China takes luxury to new depths—literally. Built into the side of an abandoned quarry, this architectural masterpiece plunges 88 meters below ground level, redefining the concept of a “groundbreaking” hotel.

Imagine a hotel that seamlessly blends the raw beauty of nature with cutting-edge design, creating a destination that feels both futuristic and deeply connected to its surroundings. The InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland is not just a marvel of engineering but a testament to human ingenuity. It transforms a disused industrial site into a beacon of sustainable luxury. Guests here don’t just stay—they embark on a journey into the earth’s depths, where every level reveals a new perspective of beauty and innovation.

Architectural Feat: Designed by JADE+QA architects, the hotel features 18 stories, 16 of which are below ground level, with two submerged underwater. The juxtaposition of modern engineering with the natural quarry walls creates a futuristic ambiance. Every room offers spectacular views of the quarry’s cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and shimmering lake below. Guests can wake up to the soothing sight of water streaming down the quarry walls or the reflective serenity of the lake. The underwater suites add another layer of magic, allowing visitors to feel as if they are living in an aquatic haven.

Innovative Dining: Dining here is an adventure in itself. The hotel’s flagship restaurant, “Mr. Fisher,” is underwater, offering a culinary journey where seafood takes center stage. Paired with mesmerizing views of the submerged marine ecosystem, it’s an experience that’s both gastronomically and visually satisfying.

Sustainability and Vision: The Wonderland’s design incorporates green roofs and geothermal energy, blending luxury with environmental stewardship. This commitment ensures the preservation of the quarry’s natural integrity while providing an unparalleled guest experience.

The Choice is Yours

From the celestial heights of Jade Mountain to the aquatic wonders of Conrad Maldives and the subterranean intrigue of the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, each of these destinations offers a distinct narrative of luxury. Whether you seek the serenity of Caribbean waters, the immersive beauty of underwater living, or the architectural marvel of a world beneath the earth, these escapes promise to transform your holidays into a story worth telling.

In the world of luxury travel, the destination is only the beginning. It’s the sensory details—the taste of a gourmet meal, the feel of a spa treatment, the sound of the ocean, and the sight of unparalleled beauty—that create memories etched in time.

So pack your bags and prepare for a journey that transcends imagination; the world is waiting to unveil its breathtaking secrets.