For more than four decades, Belmond has been a pioneer in luxury travel. As the years have passed, however, that phrase has come to take on new meanings. While travelers in search of the good life once sought out gilded palaces, today, many are searching for authentic, one-of-a-kind cultural connections.
With this in mind, Belmond hotels and resorts all around the world have embraced the concept of good living by offering experiences that celebrate the music, literature, inspiring adventure, holistic wellness rituals, and stunning natural beauty of their properties’ locations.
They’ve gathered a decerning group of tastemakers to curate a few soul-stirring experiences for guests. For example, Gala Gordon and Isabella Macpherson, co-founders of Platform Present, will host the Poetry in Motion workshop, which was inspired by Belmond’s literary legacy, and Raha Moharrak, Saudi Arabia’s first woman to conquer Mount Everest, will lead intrepid guests on an expedition through Myanmar in Inspiring Adventure.
After a morning exploring the ancient temples of Angkor, guests at Belmond La Residence D’Angkor Siem Reap can embark on a special cruise along the Tonle Sap Lake. Up to eight passengers at a time aboard Ella, a traditional wooden sailing vessel, can explore Chong Kneas village, and visit homes, schools, hospitals, restaurants and fish farms. The adventure culminates with sundowners and canapes on the water.
Gourmands will relish the chance to dine at Nelayan, Belmond Jimbaran Puri’s coastal craft, venture on a journey of Balinese flavors with a tour of the Jimbaran fish market, take a traditional cooking class for two, or join a mysterious dining experience around the resort.
Once one of the most important centers of colonial power in the region, Rangoon is rich in both history and architectural splendor. Guests at the Belmond Governor’s Residence, housed in a gorgeously restored mansion, can explore some of Burma’s most fascinating cultural attractions, including the Han Thar Wa De War Cemetery, the National Museum, and the temples of nearby Bagon.
Meanwhile, on the idyllic Thai island of Koh Samui, Belmond Napasai offers all sorts of ways for travelers to rest and rejuvenate. After paddleboarding along placid waters, while the sun sinks below the horizon, it is all but impossible not to feel fully restored.
Finally, Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao offers a truly mesmerizing boat cruise along the Mekong River to visit Pak Ou Caves and pay respects to some 4,000 Buddha statues.
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