From the temples of Siem Reap to Incan ruins in Cusco, this list showcases history and heritage, without compromising on style.
For those looking to pair their hunger for discovery with a romantic getaway, travel experts Mr & Mrs Smith have curated a list of exotic destinations that will add an element of culture to a relaxing honeymoon.
Phum Baitang, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Perched on stilts among the paddy fields in Cambodia’s picturesque countryside, Phum Baitang hotel is a world away from the bustle of nearby Siem Reap town. This all-villa resort has the rustic charm of traditional Khmer wooden houses, albeit ones with hand-picked antiques, freestanding baths and private plunge pools. Surrender to the ministrations of its expert mixologists and spa therapists – should you ever feel compelled to leave, ancient ruins, vibrant markets and a lively nightlife are just a short tuk-tuk ride away.
Smith Extra: One bottle of sparkling wine; for GoldSmith members, a dinner for two and abottle of Zannier Wine
Inkaterra La Casona, Cusco, Peru
A stay at Inkaterra La Casona, high in the Andes, is a full-on Incan immersion. The quiet16 th -century manor once housed a conquistador and was a refuge for Simon Bolivar, Peru’s El Libertador; its grounds where Incan soldiers once trained. Today, that heritage is evident in antique furnishings, local art in the rooms and bright traditional Peruvian rugs. The 11 suites don’t sacrifice any modern touches, mind: as well as the moddest of cons, there are unexpected touches such as heated floors to soothe feet after a long day clambering among the ruins.
Smith Extra: A pair of hand-painted miniature ceramic bulls
Donna Coraly Resort, Sicily, Italy
Much like the heart-racingly- strong espresso Sicilians drip over sugar, a potent hit of Italian vitality is distilled into Donna Coraly Resort. The central tenets of la dolce vita (food, wine, beauty) are taken seriously here: bouts of sun-kissed relaxation by the 13 th -century family fort – or the pool in the flower-filled park – are interspersed with languid lunches made withfarm-gathered fare. The surrounding orange groves and farmland are fertile territory for romantic wanderings and, a short drive away, Syracuse and Ortigia showcase ancient Greek and Roman splendour.
Smith Extra: A special handmade Donna Coraly ornament or accessory to take home
The Chedi Muscat, Oman
With its cultural riches, wondrous waters and adventurous surrounds, Muscat has a broad appeal. Oman’s Chedi Muscat was a pioneer in the region, one of the first stylish resorts on this stretch of the Gulf, yet it remains a standard-bearer for quiet luxury and locally-lived minimalism. Walk from the lantern-lined reception through the gently arched hallways and out into the modern Moorish water gardens and you’re reminded of the Alhambra (minus the crowds). In the city, browse a treasure trove of Omani art and cultural curios at Bait Al Zubair private museum, settle in for some lung-busting operatics at the Royal Opera House or follow your nose to the headquarters of Amouage, the world’s most expensive perfumery.
Smith Extra: A Mr & Mrs Smith gift card worth $40
The Kandy House, Kandy, Sri Lanka
In Kandy’s leafy outskirts, this 200-year old aristo palazzo has gone all 21 st century, blending minimalist lines, atypical antiques and quirky strokes of colour around a central courtyard, off which lie just eight romantic individually designed rooms, named after indigenous butterflies. Stay during Kandy’s Perahera Festival – one of the oldest and grandest of all Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka – in July or August for an extra dose of culture. During the festival, you’ll get a regal high-tea before departing for the day’s ceremonies.
Smith Extra: A 30-minute head massage each
With Mr & Mrs Smith you’ll enjoy the best-price guarantee, as well as a little something extra on arrival at every hotel. To book, call toll free at 800 905 326 or visit mrandmrssmith.com.
