Heimin

31/08/2022

Soho House Rome
The Rome outpost of this members club is set inside a Brutalist building next to La Sapienza university.
Why book?
The Rome outpost of Soho House, which opened in October 2021, is energizing and modern, set inside a 10-story restored Brutalist building next to La Sapienza university.
Set the scene
Soho House Rome’s Brutalist façade is a head-turner, but it’s the interior that really gets our attention. Look up from reception and you’ll see a gallery space showcasing work by a roster of hip young artists, or linger in the lobby, where young, smiley staff chat to young, trendy creatives as if they’ve known each other their entire lives. (Listen a little closer and you’ll realize they’re just pitching them their next screenplay.)
The backstory
For a brand that has made its name connecting creatives in up-and-coming neighborhoods, it's little surprise Soho House has chosen Rome’s San Lorenzo district for its first Italy opening. Its expansion into the country continues with Soho House Milan, due to open next year. There’s a strong visual-art theme across the hotel, with a dedicated gallery space and a 42-seat film screening room.
The rooms
There are 49 guest rooms and 20 apartments to choose from, all with unparalleled views that stretch across the Eternal City.
Food and drink
Eateries include a ground-floor deli bar and lounge area, plus an exclusive upstairs restaurant. The rooftop cocktail bar, with its lemon trees, striped linen blinds, and plush velvet stools, looks like it’s been lifted straight from Rome’s Dolce Vita era.
The neighborhood/area
San Lorenzo is a gritty, bohemian student neighborhood located just north of Termini station, where graffiti-decorated streets lined with indie boutiques, record stores, and pop-up cinemas.
The service
Interested and cool at the same time.
Anything else we should know about?
The signature Soho Health Club studios and gym spaces are open 24/7, as is the swimming pool.

31/08/2022

Kalesma Mykonos
Set on a bougainvillea-scented hilltop overlooking Ornos Bay, this serene, whitewashed sanctuary is a refreshingly discreet alternative to Mykonos’s flashy party scene.

Why book?
Set on a bougainvillea-scented hilltop overlooking Ornos Bay, this serene, whitewashed sanctuary is a refreshingly discreet alternative to Mykonos’s flashy party scene.
Set the scene
All across the island, beach clubs buzz to DJ beats and the party goes 24/7—unless you’re a guest at Kalesma. This intimate, laidback stay has created a different kind of scene, free of see-and-be-seen celebs like Paris Hilton and Kendall Jenner. The epitome of discreet, most guests lounge by their private plunge pools by day only to emerge just before sunset to sip grapefruit spritzes or signature G&Ts mixed with raspberry kombucha at the main pool bar, and dine on the excellent Mediterranean fare at Pere Ubu restaurant. With just 25 suites and two villas spread across five acres, Kalesma could be mistaken for a private estate, meticulously landscaped with 60-year-old olive trees, fuchsia and tangerine bougainvillea vines, and fragrant herbs. The designers have brilliantly married Mykonian tradition with modernity, contrasting Rick Owens furnishings and works from Serbian artist Aleksander Vac with organic interiors featuring marble, wood, and sand-blasted stone. Jackie Onassis would have certainly been a regular among the fashionable young guests—natural beauties who go makeup-free and well-groomed gents in Bottega Veneta swim trunks.
The backstory
Given the quality of the hotel’s restaurant, it should come as no surprise the Greek owners, Makis Kousathanas and Aby Saltiel, are also behind three of Athens’s top tables. The men grew up summering on Mykonos, and the hotel's land has been in one of their families for over a century. Greek designers Studio Bonarchi and K-Studio were brought in to give the authentic architecture a contemporary twist. Saltiel is often on-site playing host and creating the feel of being at a friend’s summer holiday house.
The rooms
Be warned, particularly if this is your first trip to Mykonos: You will need a lot of convincing to leave your room and explore the island. This is the type of hotel where you bring your partner or lover, skinny dip in your private plunge pool, make love in the outdoor shower, and order room service to enjoy in your king-sized bed or on your private terrace. The smallest suites are a spacious 680 square feet, with 970-square-foot patios discreetly hidden from view by clever landscaping. One-bedroom villas add between 1,500 and 1,900 square feet to the interiors and feature outdoor kitchens with barbecue areas. Interiors of whitewashed walls, stone floors, and chestnut-and-bamboo ceilings were inspired by old-world Cycladic architecture. The attention to detail is extraordinary. Horse hair-wrapped sconces by design studio Apparatus and custom hangers made with metallic equine-shaped hooks reference the horses that, according to Greek mythology, Apollo once stabled here. And the beds have been perfectly angled so you can wake to watch the sunrise above the Aegean through the floor-to-ceiling French doors.
Food and drink
The open-air restaurant, Pere Ubu, has already become one of the toughest reservations on the island, thanks to fresh, flavorful Cycladic dishes like baked sea bass wrapped in fig leaves and wood-fired lamb chops with favas and artichokes. Arrive early at Aloni sunset lounge to score a sofa by the fire pits and order a platter of meze (homemade hummus, tzatziki, smoked eggplant) and a bottle of crisp Assyrtiko from Santorini to enjoy as the sun sinks behind the island of Delos. The smell of fresh bread baking in the brick oven will lure even late-night partiers out of bed. (Though thankfully, breakfast is served until noon.) Don’t miss the soft scrambled eggs with feta and smashed avocado that come served with rustic whole grain sesame bread.
The spa
A spa is set to debut in 2022. For now, guests can book in-room massages and beauty treatments. The basement-level gym is small but has everything a fitness nerd could ask for, including Technogym cardio machines, kettlebells, and foam rollers. Personal trainers or yoga instructors can be booked for private poolside sessions.
The neighborhood/area
Tucked away on the northwest side of the island, the Aleomandra neighborhood is just 15 minutes from the main town of Mykonos, allowing guests to easily pop into the party scene and then retreat back to this low-key oasis. Kalesma is perched on a hillside that overlooks yacht-studded Ornos Bay, and it almost feels like a private island, affording guests both sunrise and sunset views.
The service
Intuitive and friendly. They remember exactly how you like your coffee in the morning and which wine you prefer. The concierge team is incredibly connected and makes you feel like an instant island VIP. I had booked a table at Scorpios beach club months in advance for a party of eight, and when it fell through at the last minute, the concierge was able to rebook me with an even better table for drinks and a table for dinner day of. They can also arrange bespoke activities, like a guided tour of the archeological site on nearby Delos or a helicopter tour of the coast.
For families
The owner and his wife have a young daughter who is frequently on property, and they keep guests’ children engaged by giving smaller kids buckets with beach toys and older kids reading and activity books about Greek myths.
Eco effort
The hotel collects rainwater to irrigate the gardens surrounding the property and recirculates and filters water for the pools. Bathrooms have dispensers for toiletries versus individual packaging, and the hotel is free of single-use plastic.
Accessibility
Two one-bedroom suites are ADA accessible.
Anything left to mention?
Two grand villas can be connected for a hotel-within-a-hotel feel complete with your own private gym and heated pool, plus chef and butler service by request. Athens-based jewelry store Zerteo, known for its trademark jewel-encrusted evil eyes, curates the boutique.
Finally, in 100 words or less, what makes this hotel worthy of Hot List?
Mykonos is no longer all about the party, thanks to the addition of Kalesma. This stylish hideaway has a restaurant that raises the island’s culinary credentials and suites sexy enough to warrant a spontaneous weekend getaway where you and your partner don’t leave your room. The design pays homage to Cycladic tradition and Greek mythology, while incorporating surprising touches like a Rick Owens double bubble sofa. Both owners frequent the property, making you feel like a very special guest at the island’s best-hosted dinner party. Trust us, you’ll be hard pressed to go back to the island’s all-night beach raves.

30/08/2022

COMO Metropolitan Bangkok
Modern, sleek, minimalist—and yet still inviting: that's COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, a peaceful escape off a busy road in Sathorn.
So, what was your first impression of this place?
You enter down a long driveway, shaded by enormous trees, to reflecting pools, smooth stones and plenty of glass. The sleek, minimalist design of Como creates a vibe more akin to a posh, modern art gallery, than a typical hotel. This is the best escape in the bustling, exciting neighborhood of Sathorn.
We're intrigued! Can you tell us about the digs?
The rooms are large compared with most in this price range in Bangkok. They feature giant windows, white linens, and espresso-wood floors with thick area rugs.
Sounds swanky. How about the F&B? What's available?
You'll find Michelin-starred dining at Nahm, the widely acclaimed modern Thai restaurant. Now under the helm of Chef Pim Techamuanvivit, it remains one of best meals you can book in a town famous for its food.
Wow—that's a ringing endorsement. How about the service?
The service is among of the best in the city. Everyone goes above and beyond; on one stay when we weren't feeling well, the staff even had a physician visit our room.
That's terrific. Now, can you tell us a bit about the other guests?
They're dressed to impress, ready to relax, and obsessed with food.
Got it. And what about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene? What about shops or clubs or other places nearby?
Thanks to the high, white walls enclosing the pool and the long, lovely, heavily landscaped driveway (shared with the Banyan Tree Hotel), you truly have a retreat from the business of Bangkok. The neighborhood of Sathorn is popular with expats and visitors, and shops, spas and great restaurants are plentiful.
Perfect. Is there anything you'd change?
Nothing at all.
Awesome. Name one standout feature.
The pool is gorgeous; it's surrounded by plush, heavy deck chairs, white umbrellas, and a staff that's quick to refill your wine glass.
Bottom line: Worth it?
Yes, absolutely.

20/08/2022

New Ubin Seafood
With a menu of mixed styles, this seafood joint does a good job expressing how modern-day Singaporeans like to eat.
Tell us about your first impressions when you arrived.
The fact that New Ubin Seafood is housed in an industrial building's canteen says everything about the vibe: it's cacophonous and simple, with a dining room bathed in a deep yellow light. All that means Instagram is probably a no-go here.
What was the crowd like?
Everyone dressed comfortably, usually in the standard Singapore-casual uniform of shorts and a T-shirt.
What should we be drinking?
Beers and soft drinks. The restaurant has a BYOB policy so most tables bring their own booze.
Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss.
The restaurant's extensive menu of seemingly mixed styles reflects the taste preferences of Singaporeans today. There are traditional offerings like chilli crab and various Indian-style biryanis, but there are also dishes like "Heart Attack Fried Rice" (rice fried to a crisp with beef fat and dark soy sauce), perfectly cooked U.S. Black Angus rib eye steaks and foie gras satay. The menu is certainly eclectic, but almost all the dishes are terrific.
And how did the front-of-house folks treat you?
As is so often the case in popular Singapore restaurants of this ilk, the service here is often harried. Servers do their best to keep up with the dining room and seem to know the menu well, and the kitchen does a good job of sending out food at a good pace. But there are times when the sheer volume of diners gets the better of things.
What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here?
For hanging loose with a big group friends or family, if only because you'll be able to order more things to share.

20/08/2022

Universal Studios Singapore
The best amusement park in Asia
What sets this Universal theme park apart?
This 20-hectare theme park—the first of its kind from Universal Studios in Southeast Asia—is all manmade fun. It boasts the world's tallest dueling rollercoaster, the Battlestar Galactica, alongside the Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase and Puss In Boots' Giant Journey rides. Kiddie characters aside, the park also revisits movie blockbusters like Jurassic Park, The Mummy and Transformers with attractions that span everything from a rock-climbing wall where you can search for fossils from The Lost World, to an interactive 3D battle between the Autobots and Decepticons. Whether you're in it for the thrills or just a photo, the park has something for everyone. The only barrier? The relatively pricey tickets that start from about $55 for a one-day pass.
What are some of the best rides?
You'll have to wait in line for it, but a whirl on the Battlestar Galactica is a must for thrillseekers. At 14 stories high, this intertwined double coaster is the world's tallest. Choose to ride on the 'regular' Human side, or let your pins hang loose from the open-bottomed, louder-scream-inducing Cylon train. Either way, you'll be traveling at 90 kilometers per hour—as fast as you're allowed to go on Singapore roads.
How easy is it to get around?
The park is made up of seven themed zones around a lagoon, throughout which are scattered about 30 restaurants and food carts, and 20 retail stores. Which means there are plenty of spots to take a breather or splash some cash at. Everything is clearly marked and wheel-friendly—and if you need some wheels to get around, strollers, wheelchairs, and mobility scooters can be rented from a booth near the entrance.
So why would you recommend this theme park, and who (or who not) for?
There's a reason why this place has been ranked the top amusement park in Asia—it's fun, friendly and has a full range of entertainment. The queues aren't as long as at, say, Tokyo Disneyland, and seasonal attractions like the popular Halloween Horror Nights screamfest keep the fun fresh. That said, if rides and walking around in the heat and humidity aren't really your thing, this probably isn't for you.

17/08/2022

Il Tornabuoni
With beautiful and comfortable rooms, multiple restaurants, and an enviable address close to Florence’s icons, Il Tornabuoni adds to the Renaissance city’s growing boutique portfolio.
Why book?
A luxury bolthole hidden on Florence’s most elegant thoroughfare provides a secluded hideaway that’s still close to all the city’s main attractions.
Set the scene
Florence’s Il Tornabuoni has long been home to the city’s most iconic fashion brands, and no matter how many selfie-stick wielding tourists descend on other parts of the city, the street—and now the hotel—has an air of refinement that befits a palazzo dating back to the 13th century. Fashion mavens and travel types looking for a quieter address are making it their home away from home (and since the hotel is also part of Hyatt’s new portfolio, you can use points towards your stay).
The backstory
Even for a city full of history, this property, officially known as the Palazzo Minerbetti, has major credentials: Dating back to the 12th century, residents have included the American-born British author Henry James and the Ukrainian poet Olizar Gustav.
The rooms
Crisp and stylish interiors by Milanese interior designer Andrea Auletta give the property’s original bones new life without making the place feel cookie-cutter. The lovely frescoes in the Il Magnifico suite, for example, are delightful in their whimsy; and we loved the pinks and blues of the Il Tornabuoni suite, as well as the standalone tub. Many of the rooms come with peek-a-boo views of Florence icons like the cupola of the Duomo, or the façade of Santa Maria Novella.
Food and Drink
Il Tornabuoni’s Lucie Gourmet restaurant feels like eating inside an Art Deco jewelry box with its gilded mirrors and gem-like pinks and teals, while the Butterfly Terrace gives great views over the city—don’t miss an Aperol following sightseeing or a shopping spree. And Le Cave gives a fun 101 of both Italian and more far-flung vintages.
The spa
There’s no spa, but you can set up yoga sessions on the rooftop or a personal trainer in the gym.
The neighborhood/area
Via de’ Tornabuoni has a sense of refinement that other parts of the city struggle to keep—think matrons in Fendi with perfect make-up and Gucci-clad fashion upstarts window shopping. While steps from the Arno and Ponte Vecchio, the atmosphere is more subdued and feels, thankfully, residential despite the central location.
The service
Still getting its legs (the property opened in early March), the staff is eager to show off the new property and features.
For families
With its unusual double king-size beds in multiple rooms (and connecting suites), it’s easy to configure rooms for families—and must-sees like the Uffizi and the Duomo are a quick walk away.
Accessibility
Elevator accessible.
Anything left to mention?
Don’t drive to the hotel. Between construction, the one-way roads that change seemingly every week, and a 60-euro parking garage fee, it’s best to wait on renting a car until when you leave the city.
Finally, in 100 words or less, what makes this hotel worthy of Hot List?
With beautiful and comfortable rooms, multiple restaurants, and an enviable address close to Florence’s icons, Il Tornabuoni adds to the Renaissance city’s growing boutique portfolio.

17/08/2022

The St. Regis Florence
Renovated grandeur on the banks of the Arno, and a favorite among Marriott-SPG Rewards loyalists.
Start us off with an overview.
The St. Regis Florence is grand hotel style all the way, set along the banks of the Arno River. Picture renovated grandeur in a beautiful lobby with classic Florentine architecture, frescoes, and crystal chandeliers. Its central location, on Piazza Ognissanti, make it a 10-minute walk from all the action.
Sounds luxe. Who else is staying here?
SPG diehards: people who prefer big brand quality, not quirky hotels. Also lots of families, and first-timers to Florence.
How's check-in?
Very simple check-in, easy functionality, nothing unclear.
The good stuff: Tell us about your room.
Insist on getting a room that faces the Arno. Rooms are richly decorated in that time-piece grandeur: brocade, gilding, period-inspired furniture like four poster beds, lavish chandeliers, and Renaissance-era artwork reproductions. Bathrooms are spacious and modern, with lots of marble.
How about the little things, like mini-bar, or shower goodies. Anything that made the stay more comfortable?
Standard in-room amenities, well-stocked mini-bar, reliable wifi, and in-house Remède bath products all are perks.
Room service and food: Worth it?
Winter Garden Bar with wraparound terrace hosts a well-stocked international breakfast—lots of fresh fruit, cheeses and cold cuts, salads, smoked salmon and fresh bagels, and freshly made omelettes. Restaurant Winter Garden by Caino is the sit-down dining option—the space is beautiful—a large open area with vaulted painted glass ceilings and crystal chandeliers.
Anything else especially stand out to you during your stay?
There's a great fitness center, and spa, and the hotel offers parking. Bonus: I had fresh fruit in my room every day.
Bottom line: worth it, and why?
If you are familiar with SPG and the St. Regis line, and are a Marriott-SPG Rewards loyalist, this is the very best. Top quality, and you get the points for your stay

17/08/2022

17/08/2022

17/08/2022