0 Our pick of some of the best hotels and properties that you must visit in the year 2023 We hoped you enjoyed our coverage of some of the best properties that you ought to visit this year. We received such great options that we had to split this feature in two issues. If you havent seen our previous listing, we urge you to visit our website. Continuing on with our coverage, we were actually spoilt for choices. Here’s our final list of properties that really deserve a visit this year. So sit back and enjoy our feature. We would be absolutely delighted if you do decide to visit one of these properties! FOUR SEASONS MALDIVES AT KUDA HURAA LOCATION: Kuda Huraa, Maldives BRIEF DESCRIPTION: The Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at Kuda Huraa is an award-winning luxury property that beckons guests with the welcoming embrace of a lagoon, flower gardens, and a private spa island in a charming setting of a Maldivian village. Tastefully designed, there is an infinity pool overlooking the clear waters of the Maldives where guests can spend the entire afternoon lounging on the outdoor deck, sipping cocktails, and enjoying occasional dips in the pool and the view of the endless ocean. Extending across three majestic islands, this opulent resort is home to the Maldives’ first private spa island, a world-class surfing tournament and an impressive sea turtle conservation sanctuary. REASONS TO VISIT: Experience the charm of being surrounded by crystal waters at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa. Centrally located amongst the country’s most celebrated surf breaks, a surfing holiday at Kuda Huraa is an exceptional experience. Idyllic beauty, island spa, sumptuous dining, unrivalled Four Seasons service and world-class surf are what the resort is known for. BEST TIME TO VISIT: The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April. The climate is warm and tropical, with average highs at a consistent 29°C to 31°C year-round and average lows rarely falling below 24°C. January to April are the driest months, withlittle rain and low humidity, making this the perfect time to take a trip. NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Located at a slight distance from the main resort, one must sail across the blue waters, and step onto a green island to soak up the ethereal whites. THE KUMAON LOCATION: Kasar Devi region of Uttarakhand BRIEF DESCRIPTION: The Kumaon is a transformative luxury retreat tucked away in Kasar Devi region of Uttarakhand. It is surrounded by the spectacular undulating hills and rich biodiversity with unparalleled views of the mighty Himalayan range. Conceptualised by Dr. Vikrom Mathur, one of the co- founders, whose profound love for the region and special relationship with its people goes back to his childhood days. He has researched and written about environment, society and development for the past 20+ years. Genesis of The Kumaon is rooted in his passionate beliefs as well as interest in the region’s ecology and its coupling with the culture and livelihoods of local communities. REASONS TO VISIT: The comfortable and secluded setting of The Kumaon provides a perfect ambience forstargazing where one can fully immerse in the beauty of the mysterious night sky. The experiential journey at The Kumaon is a natural paradise where one can explore the rich biodiversity and unchartered landscapes with retreat as a base camp. Locally sourced, farm fresh produce makes for a splendid culinary experience at The Kumaon. While one can go foraging for various ingredients in the forests with the team, insights into the sustainable local cuisine can be found in complex fibre and biodynamic superfoods that are native to the region. One can try a variety of produce like protein-rich black soybean daal, bhaang chutney made with ground cannabis seeds, and millet flatbreads! A combination of indoor or al fresco dining can be enjoyed at the gourmet restaurant that sits in a cantilevered structure of floor- to-ceiling glass with an adjoining main terrace area. A formidable juxtaposition of minimalism and modernism, The Kumaon is uniquely crafted as a secluded private sanctuary. Award-winning Zowa Architects from Sri Lanka – Pradeep Kodikara and Jineshi Samaraweera, have taken their love for nature, natural materials and minimalism to weave these together into contemporary design aspects that reflect at The Kumaon. NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: From The Nanda Devi temple that sits on the top of Crank’s ridge, to the Chitai Golu Devta bell temple, one can visit these sacred sites frequented by the local worshippers. Then there is the nearby town of Almora with an old-world charm and secrets from history.