Imagine reclining on an elegant sun lounger, waves lulling in the distance and the only thought crossing your mind being which mouth-watering, thirst quenching cocktail to order next… At Hotel Christopher Saint Barth this dream can become a reality.
Luxury yachts, exclusive shops, paradise beaches, destination du jour for A list celebrities and year-round soul warming sunshine, we dare you not to sneak a peek at Splendia’s hotel of the month…
Sitting in the Caribbean Sea between Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and the island of Cuba lies a seven-kilometre-long Mexican paradise; Isla Mujeres. In addition to boasting exceptional beauty and a spectacular landscape, Isla Mujeres oozes history and heritage. The unspoiled retreat of a mere 12,600 inhabitants was once considered sacred by Mexico’s Mayan civilization and served as the sanctuary for the Mayan Goddess Ixchel, the goddess of fertility, medicine and happiness.
Awake to the cobalt blue Maldivian sea at the Cocoa Island, Como Resort in the South Malé Atoll of the picture-perfect Maldives. Situated on its own private island, this truly is a piece of paradise – it’s not hard to see why this is our favourite hotel this month…
Built in a shape that mirrors the island, this sublime 
hotel sits perched above the crystal clear water. You’ll be spoilt for choice when choosing from the five different accommodation types, all of which offer a decadent 24-hour personal butler service. All the suites and villas are inspired by the dhoni boats used by local fisherman, featuring New Zealand pine and Kajan thatched roofs, whilst the stylish natural interiors are complemented with white cotton furnishings and the finest Italian linens. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Maldivian sea whilst floating in the glistening waters and relaxing in seclusion on your private deck.
From sun-drenched beaches to a backdrop of verdant, forested mountains brimming with wildlife, from exotic cuisine to warm, welcoming locals, Rio de Janeiro truly is the city that has it all, which is no doubt the reason why our Facebook fans voted it as one of their favourite cities. It might not be Brazil’s capital, but the Ciadade Maravilhosa (Marvellous City) is without doubt the life and soul of the party. Flamboyant and charismatic, Rio exudes vibrance, and is a hub of lively excitement in one of the most dazzling cityscapes in the world.
Sights to see
Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic monument, Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer), is the 
world’s largest art deco statue and in 2007 was announced as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Perched atop Corcovado (meaning ‘hunchback’ in Portuguese), the majestic statue overlooks Rio and can be seen from all over the city. However, it’s worth venturing up the mountain to appreciate the delicately crafted face up close and take in the superb views of the city, rivalled only by Sugarloaf Mountain‘s sweeping vistas of Guanabara Bay. Sugarloaf can be reached by cable car or, for the more adventurous, by one of the many climbing routes that vary in difficulty. Continue reading
We asked our Facebook fans to tell us where the best beaches in the world are. What better than a personal recommendation? Here, we’ve chosen our top five from all the inspiring suggestions… So, take your pick and get packing for a trip to paradise!
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Intensely turquoise waters gently lap pristine white sands against a backdrop of dramatic, jagged volcanic peaks; it’s no wonder that the eighteenth century explorer Captain James Cook christened Bora Bora as the “pearl of the Pacific”. For a luxury island retreat, stay at Le Méridien Bora Bora, and glimpse turtles and tropical fish in the lagoon through the glass-bottomed bungalows.
Jericoacoara, Brazil
For a more active beach trip, visit Jericoacoara. Perched on Brazil’s north coast, the beach enjoys year-round sunshine, warm waters and windy conditions, making it one of the world’s best windsurfing and kitesurfing destinations. The charming Pousada Vila Kalango, can organise tours and lessons, or you can simply lie back beneath the palm trees in one of the hammocks. Enjoy taking in the spectacular sea views with a frozen caipirinha in hand – a twist on Brazil’s signature cocktail. Continue reading