Boundless energy, disposable income, insatiable wanderlust – if you don’t travel the hell out of your twenties, you’re doing it wrong. Here are some top-of-the-list trips specially selected by travel experts, Mr & Mrs Smith.
Tree of Life Resort & Spa, Jaipur, India
For photography enthusiasts, Jaipur’s sprawling Tree of Life resort is a splash of colour in the dry desert of Rajasthan – with its faded pink walls, brilliant blue pools and shining domed cupolas, it’s all alluringly Instagrammable. There are village tours, elephant treks and a host of other experiences on offer, and a superlative spa and poolside sunloungers to soothe yourself post-exertion.
Smith extra: A 10-minute welcome head and shoulder massage for two.
L Hotel, Bali, Indonesia
Feeling overworked? Get thee to blissful Bali. We won’t blame you if you can’t quite bring yourself to step outside the front door at Seminyak’s decadent L Hotel, though. Sure, there’s plenty of boutique-shopping, beach-flopping and bar-hopping to be done in the surrounding enclave – one of Bali’s ritziest – but this well-heeled hideaway’s opulent suites, rooftop dining, anything-you-can-imagine service and romantic bars will make leaving that much harder.
Smith extra: A 15-minute Ayurvedic head massage each (limited to two people); GoldSmiths also get a serving of canapes at Luna rooftop bar.
Puripunn, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Nestled among forested foothills, Chiang Mai is a playground for young adventurers, with river rafting, rock climbing, ziplining and trekking to name but a few local activities. Puripunn – a historic Colonial-style hideaway – uses bold colour in the rooms and comfortable common spaces to create an atmosphere of serenity. The secluded grounds have a big swimming pool and Jacuzzi surrounded by lush gardens and lotus ponds, making it the perfect retreat from city thrills.
Smith extra: A choice of either a Puripunn Chill or Puripunn Lovely cocktail, and 15 percent off your first spa treatment.
Claska, Tokyo, Japan
For the fashion fanatics, Claska hotel in Tokyo’s shop-stuffed Meguro district is part hotel, part gallery, part event space and part boutique – and it excels in each of its roles. The hotel even shares space with a fancy dog-grooming salon, DogMan, downstairs. For a stylish getaway in an offbeat location, with a lively bar and restaurant to mingle in at the end of the day, this is a must-do.
Smith extra: A half-bottle of sparkling wine. GoldSmiths also get free breakfast on each morning of their stay.
The Opposite House, Beijing, China
As the capital of the world’s most populous country, bustling Beijing is known as much for its none-more-modern architecture as its ancient sites. Amid the city chaos, you’ll find the Opposite Hotel, where renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma’s has created a beguiling blend of luxury and light. Set in the heart of Sanlitun, this design den offers a trio of gourmet restaurants to pair with its airy, modern suites and wondrous wooden bathtubs. If you want to tick a climb of the Great Wall off your bucket list, we recommend an early start to beat the crowds.
Smith extra: A glass of champagne each and tapas selection at Mesh bar.
Mr & Mrs Smith gets you the best rates, guaranteed, as well as a little something extra on arrival at every hotel. To book, call the Smith24 team toll-free on 800 905 326, or visit mrandmrssmith.com