Luxury Residences Coming This Year to Kauri Cliffs, New Zealand
By Lifestyle+Travel
Adding to its repertoire of refined luxurious accommodations, Robertson Lodges has announced the creation of The Residences at Kauri Cliffs. The three new private residences filled with high-end amenities and ultimate comfort are ideal for larger guest groups.
Opening in November 2019, each offers a stay comprising the very best in accommodations, fresh farm to table cuisine and local beverages, and activities on the property, guaranteeing a memorable time for their guests.
Similar to the Owner’s Cottages, The Residences at Kauri Cliffs were developed for owner Julian Robertson’s children and their families. While they are used personally by the Robertson family, both the Owner’s Cottage and now The Residences at Kauri Cliffs are available for guest stays.
The experience begins as soon as guests set foot on the property, when they receive a welcome basket of locally sourced goods. Each of the three Residences carries its own individual style, featuring warm décors by acclaimed New Zealand interior designer Virginia Fisher that perfectly blend with the surrounding green hills and blue sea of Northland.
Walking into their Residence, guests face a spacious living and dining room, accompanied by a family-sized kitchen complete with a casual dining island, a butler’s pantry for exclusive chef service and a mini-bar carrying New Zealand’s finest wines, beers and spirits. A private laundry room is also located in each villa. Stepping out to an expansive veranda, each villa also has their own private 25-foot saltwater swimming pool and deck for guests to enjoy.
Each of the three Residences has four guest bedrooms that offer spacious beds and wardrobes, private bathrooms and direct access to verandas. Guests in the master bedrooms also enjoy memorable views of the picturesque farmland, award-winning golf course and the Pacific Ocean. Maintaining the same sparkling presentation as when guests arrive, suites are refreshed by housekeeping twice daily.
The Residence experience continues on the property, as guests can take a private golf cart to the main lodge just a short drive away. There, guests can enjoy the resort’s facilities to the fullest, as a stay at the Residences also includes access to the tennis courts, walking trails, private beaches and The Spa which includes treatment rooms, a heated lap pool, jacuzzi, sauna and gymnasium. Guests can also indulge in a full daily breakfast, pre-dinner drinks, canapes and dinner showcasing local flavors. Taking the golf cart back to the Residence, guests can rest and recharge for the next day and the next adventure at Kauri Cliffs.
FOR MICE MEDIA: The addition of The Residences at Kauri Cliffs now makes Kauri Cliffs the largest luxury lodge accommodation provider in New Zealand, able to accommodate 76 people for a bucket-list adventure. The added accommodation provides additional meeting spaces for intimate groups, comfortably seating 12 or more guests in ultimate luxury and privacy.
The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs offers many once in a lifetime experiences that your team won’t find anywhere else, such as private beaches and a surf break where experienced surfers can enjoy a one of a kind surfing experience as well as other activities including land-based fishing, ATV-riding, horse riding and private hiking trails. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs can be used as a meeting and incentive destination in conjunction with its sister properties The Farm at Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay and Matakauri Lodge in Queenstown. All properties offer the option to run multi-lodge programs that enables them to run concurrent meetings or incentive programs.
The Residences at Kauri Cliffs are taking enquiries now.
For further information please contact the Robertson Lodges reservations team at reservations@robertsonlodges.com.
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Wellness by the Waves: Relax to the Soothing Rhythm of the Andaman in Phuket and Phang Nga
Beyond its breathtaking beauty, the Andaman Sea holds a hidden power of healing within the rolling waves, soft sands, gentle breeze, and even the warmth of sunlight. Wellness by the Waves, a three-day, two-night journey in Phuket and Phang Nga, is more than a holiday. It is an immersion that soothes both body and mind with profound relaxation. The journey begins with a visit to Phuket Old Town, where the rich Peranakan architecture and cultural heritage have been carefully preserved through generations. A stop at The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket offers an authentic taste of local cuisine handed down over time, reinterpreted with a contemporary presentation—signature dishes Gaeng Poo Khai Ped (Crab Curry with Duck Egg), Moo Hong (Braised Pork Belly Phuket Style), and Pla Tao Ew (Soy-Braised Fish). Next comes relaxation with panoramic views of Cape Panwa at Amatara Welleisure Resort, where wellness experiences restore balance from within. “Sound Healing with Tibetan singing bowls guides you into deep tranquility, while Pranayama Breathing Therapy enhances oxygen flow, cultivating mindfulness and inner calm.” The day concludes with a fine dining experience at Senses Restaurant, where fresh ingredients are crafted into dishes that balance flavor and nutrition. On the second day, the journey continues in Phang Nga with lunch at Catch and Co., where the freshest daily catch from Phang Nga’s Sea is presented with refined preparation and creative flair. Guests can select from an array of premium seafood, including delicate Thai sashimi. Then continue your journey of relaxation at JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, where QUAN Spa offers a full range of treatments. The highlight is the Signature Jade Stone Massage, which uses both hot and cold jade stones to relieve muscle tension, stimulate circulation, and reduce stress. The experience continues with “Mindful Mandela Art, a meditative practice of creating mandala patterns that foster focus, serenity, and inner balance amidst lush garden surroundings.” An exceptional evening follows at Nai Muang Restaurant, renowned for its distinctive Southern Thai cuisine. Signature dishes such as Gaeng Som Nai Mueang (Southern Sour Curry), Moo Pad Kapi Sataw (Stir-fried Pork with Shrimp Paste and Stink Beans), and Bai Liang Pad Khai (Stir-fried Melinjo Leaves with Egg). highlight the bold flavors of the South and the quality of local ingredients. The final morning leads to Memories Beach, home to “Ocean Therapy, a practice that harnesses the restorative power of the ocean through water activities.” As one of Thailand’s premier surfing spots, it helps release stress and strengthen both body and mind under the guidance of experienced instructors. The journey concludes with a memorable meal at Toh Daeng at Baan Ar Jor, a century-old Sino-Portuguese home transformed into a restaurant and museum. Local Hokkien-inspired dishes such as Gaeng Kua Motan Moo Yang Sai Ngo (Spicy Curry with Grilled Pork and Rambutan), and Pla Jian (Pan-fried Fish) are served, while the museum offers a glimpse into the heritage of the historic family estate. Contacts & Practical Information ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket Opening Hours: 11:00–22:00 (Closed on Wednesday) Facebook Page: The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket Tel: +66 (0) 76
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Fresh Breath Escape: Take a Breath of Fresh Air at Khao Yai – Saraburi
Sometimes, what the body craves most is simply to breathe in the crisp freshness of nature, to let the wind sweep away fatigue, and to embrace the renewing energy that restores balance. Fresh Breath Escape offers exactly that: a short yet fulfilling 2-day, 1-night wellness retreat amidst the lush valleys of Khao Yai–Saraburi, where pure air and serene landscapes invite you to rediscover lightness of being. Begin your journey with a light trek along the historic “200 Years of Thai–US Relations” trail in Khao Yai National Park. Wander beneath towering canopies, encounter diverse ecosystems in the lush Khao Yai Park… just the right dose of exercise. After this invigorating walk, recharge with a wholesome lunch at Gin Dee Organic Restaurant, where dishes such as crisp organic salads, Nam Prik Goong Sod (Fresh shrimp chili paste), and soothing herbal infusions are prepared with care from the freshest local farm ingredients. All enjoyed in a breezy, relaxing atmosphere. In the afternoon, check in “at Hansar Thai Wellness Khao Yai, where the philosophy of “Rest is Wellness” comes to life.” Replenish body and mind with the signature Aromatherapy Massage using natural essential oils, unwind in private onsen baths, and soothe tension in the sauna—all embraced by panoramic mountain views. As evening descends, savor the calm elegance of InterContinental Khao Yai Resort. “At Somying’s Kitchen, indulge in a Farm-to-Table dining experience featuring thoughtfully curated health-conscious menus.” Every plate showcases organically grown produce and supports local farmers. “Awaken the next morning with inspiration at Khao Yai Art Forest, a gallery seamlessly blending contemporary creativity with the timeless beauty of the surrounding forest.” Here, art and nature converge to evoke tranquility, reflection, and deep inner calm. Continue your journey with a riverside retreat at Jittang Permaculture Restaurant & Café, where farm-to-fork dining is elevated by the philosophy of permaculture. Relish wholesome Thai–Western fusion dishes such as Moo Krob Biodynamic (Biodynamic Crispy Pork), Kanom Jeen Sao Nam (Rice Noodles with Coconut Milk and Pineapple), Choo Chee Pla Nuea On (Spicy Fish Curry), and farm-fresh organic salads, each crafted with integrity and sustainability. “Conclude your wellness escape with an indulgent afternoon tea at The Harmony Library & Tearoom, The Soul Resort. The exquisite Silk Road Tea Set pairs premium blends with French pastries, served in an Oriental-inspired space infused with the soothing energy of chromotherapy hues.” It is the perfect finale before returning to daily life refreshed, rebalanced, and renewed with every breath Contacts & Practical Information ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ 200 Years Thai–US Relations Trail, Khao Yai National Park Open: Daily 06:00–18:00 Website: khaoyainationalpark.com Tel: +66 (0) 86 092 6529 Gin Dee Organic Restaurant Open: Daily 11:00–20:00 Facebook: Gin-d Organic Tel: +66 (0) 62 594 6255 Hansar Thai Wellness Khao Yai Website: hansarhotels.com/khao-yai Tel: +66 (0) 62 432 0599 For Hansar Thai Wellness Spa (Open 10:00–18:00), advance reservation 3–7 days prior is required via website or Tel: +66 (0) 97 919 7633 Somying’s Kitchen, InterContinental Khao Yai Resort Open: Daily — Breakfast 07:00–11:00 / Lunch 12:00–15:00 / Dinner 18:00–22:00 Website: khaoyai.intercontinental.com/dining/somyings-kitchen Tel: +66 (0) 44 082 039 Advance reservation required for non-resident guests Khao Yai Art Forest Open: Thu–Fri 12:30–18:00 / Sat–Sun 10:00–18:00 Website: khaoyaiart.com Tel: +66 (0) 86 569
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Nature’s Embrace: Find Renewal in Chiang Mai’s Embrace of Nature
“If everyday life feels like it’s spinning too fast and overwhelming that your mind and body are calling for a ‘reset’, it’s time to journey into the tranquil embrace of nature in Chiang Mai.” Take this three-days and two-nights Nature’s Embrace retreat to recharge your energy and restore balance in your life. Begin your journey “with a soulful dining experience at Ekachan Ethnic Thai Cuisine, where rare and traditional Northern dishes are thoughtfully prepared using organic local ingredients.” Signature highlights include Jeaw Phak Pang sai Jin Som (Spicy Dip with Pickled Pork), Yam Som-O Miang Poo (Pomelo Salad with Crab Wrapped in Betel Leaves), or Kaeng Rawaeng Neua (Beef Curry with Aromatic Spices) all served in the atmosphere of a 150-year-old wooden Lanna house. Next, journey to Lisu Lodge by Asian Oasis for a Forest Bathing experience, a mindful practice of connecting with nature by walking slowly or simply being still in the forest. “This is an experience that helps ease away the fatigue and stress while replacing them with deep, positive energy.” Stay overnight surrounded by rice fields and mountain views, while learning the culture of the Northern Thailand’s Lisu hill tribe including a heartwarming Circle Talk gathering where feelings are shared among participants. In the next morning, you can explore the organic tea field at Araksa Tea Garden. “Learn about the art of cultivation to tea tasting as well as the types of tea that are globally awarded to celebrate their health benefits.” Complement the experience with tea-inspired culinary creations against the peaceful backdrop of rolling hills. Then you can spend your afternoon restoring both body and mind at Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai. Engage in a mindful art by crafting a traditional Tung Lanna (northen ceremonial flag). Afterwards, “unwind with a soothing treatment at the Ayurah Spa & Wellness Centre”, and conclude the day with a wholesome dinner at The Garden Restaurant, where premium ingredients are thoughtfully crafted into flavourful dishes that nourish your wellbeing. As evening falls, retreat to Cross Chiang Mai Riverside, where Lanna-inspired architecture harmonizes with lush riverside landscapes. “Awaken to sunrise yoga by the Ping River, embracing the calm energy of the morning.” On the final day, immerse yourself in local wisdom at Baan Noi Norn Muan, learning how to make herbal inhalers and compress balls using local herbs. For lunch, indulge in contemporary Thai flavours at BAAN Landai Fine Thai Cuisine, featuring creative dishes such as Laab Mamuang Suk Poo Kon (Spicy Ripe Mango Salad with Crab Meat), Phad Mee Boran Goong Tod Sauce Makham (Stir-fried Ancient-style Noodles with Tamarind Sauce and Crispy Prawns), and many more