Whether it's the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives, the vibrant social scene of Barbados in winter or the electric atmosphere of New Year in Cape Town, timing can transform an exceptional holiday into an unforgettable one. These five luxury escapes showcase destinations at their finest.
Three shades of blue in the Maldives
Finolhu, Maldives
There are few destinations more synonymous with winter sun than the Maldives, and
Finolhu captures the magic of the season beautifully. Named after the Maldivian word for "sandbank", the resort is renowned for its spectacular two-kilometre stretch of powder-soft white sand, creating one of the most distinctive beach settings in the Indian Ocean.
This particular season creates excellent conditions for snorkelling, diving and watersports, with calm seas and exceptional visibility revealing the vibrant marine life that thrives beneath the surface.
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Swimming Pool
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View of Resort
What makes Finolhu particularly captivating is its seemingly endless palette of colour. Opal lagoons blend into vivid turquoise shallows before giving way to sapphire-blue depths beyond the reef, creating what the resort describes as a paradise in three shades of blue. During the winter months, when sunshine and calm conditions are at their peak, guests can fully immerse themselves in the beauty of this remarkable setting.
No stay would be complete without a visit to the iconic Crab Shack. Located on a secluded stretch of sandbank, this much-loved dining destination has become one of the Maldives' most unique culinary experiences, offering a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere in a location that feels worlds away from everyday life.
The art of Haute Living
Domes Resorts
While some destinations come alive in winter, summer belongs to the Mediterranean. This is when the region reveals its most captivating side, with sun-drenched coastlines, warm evenings spent dining al fresco and a vibrant energy that spills from bustling harbours to beach clubs to charming villages.
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Tropical Open Plan Suite
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Swimming Pool
It is the perfect backdrop for the distinctive philosophy of
Domes Resorts, elevated further through their signature Haute Living experience. More than just a collection of luxury hotels, Domes curates a lifestyle centred around exceptional experiences, elevated hospitality and a deep connection to each destination. Whether enjoying locally inspired gastronomy, discovering the culture and character of the surrounding region, or unwinding beside the sea, every moment is designed to embrace the effortless sophistication of Mediterranean living.
The summer season allows guests to experience Domes Resorts at their best. Longer days invite leisurely lunches overlooking the water and unhurried afternoons spent exploring picturesque coastlines, while balmy evenings create the ideal setting for open-air dining, social gatherings and unforgettable sunsets. Blending contemporary luxury with an authentic sense of place, Domes offers a stylish gateway to the Mediterranean's most sought-after summer experiences. For travellers looking to embrace the season in all its glory, few collections capture the spirit of Mediterranean summer and the essence of Haute Living quite so effortlessly.
Barbados at its most vibrant
The House, Barbados
Winter is one of the most exciting times to visit Barbados. Alongside glorious temperatures and golden beaches comes a calendar packed with prestigious events, from Barbados Sailing Week and international polo competitions to surfing championships and the celebrated Barbados Gold Cup.
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Beach View
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Terrace
Situated on the island's sought-after Platinum Coast,
The House offers a more intimate way to experience the season's energy. Reserved exclusively for adults, the boutique retreat feels less like a hotel and more like a welcoming private residence, where personalised service and a relaxed atmosphere create a genuine sense of home away from home.
Guests also have access to a wider collection of dining experiences across nearby Marriott all-inclusive properties. A complimentary daytime water taxi provides a scenic connection between resorts, allowing visitors to enjoy the best of both worlds before returning to the peace and exclusivity of The House.
A spectacular New Year in Cape Town
South Africa v England at Newlands
For those looking to begin the year in unforgettable fashion, few experiences compare to combining South Africa's summer season with world-class cricket. From the pace and bounce of Johannesburg's Wanderers Stadium to the Boxing Day atmosphere at Centurion,
The 2026/26 Tour promises to visit some of the most iconic venues in world cricket. Yet for many, the highlight is reserved for the final Test at Newlands in Cape Town, where Table Mountain provides one of the most breathtaking backdrops in the game.
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This exclusive itinerary combines the excitement of international cricket with the very best of the Western Cape. The journey begins with a three-night stay at Leeu Estates in the heart of Franschhoek, where wine tastings, vineyard views and world-class gastronomy offer a wonderfully relaxed introduction to South Africa. Guests can spend time exploring the Cape Winelands before travelling on to Cape Town and the legendary Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, where an eight-night stay includes the opportunity to welcome in the New Year in one of the world's most vibrant cities.
For travellers seeking the perfect blend of luxury, sightseeing and sporting drama, this Cape Town itinerary offers an exceptional way to experience the tour's grand finale.
Discovering two sides of Grenada
Silversands Grand Anse & Silversands Beach House
Grenada's appeal lies in its diversity. Known as the Spice Isle, its appeal lies in its contrasts, balancing vibrant island energy with secluded natural beauty. Together,
Silversands Grand Anse and
Silversands Beach House offer two distinct perspectives on the same remarkable destination, inviting guests to experience both sides of Grenada's character.
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Beachfront Junior Suite - Ocean View
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Restaurant
At Silversands Grand Anse, the atmosphere is lively and social. Positioned on the island's most famous stretch of coastline, it places guests at the heart of Grenada's activity, where days can be spent enjoying watersports, exploring local culture, discovering colourful markets and experiencing the vibrant rhythm of island life. Here, Grenada feels dynamic, energetic and endlessly inviting.
A stay at Silversands Beach House reveals a different side of the island altogether. Tucked away in a more secluded setting, it captures Grenada at its most peaceful. Surrounded by nature and framed by tranquil coastal views, the emphasis shifts towards relaxation, wellness and slowing down to appreciate the island's quieter beauty. Days unfold at a gentler pace, allowing guests to reconnect with both nature and themselves.
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