Page 20 - Explore Magazine Summer 2017

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WHAT’S HOT

IKURANGI – RAROTONGA’S ECO RETREAT

As the Cook Islands’ first purpose-built the garden setting under the Takitimu
eco accommodation, Ikurangi Eco mountains. Each tent has an outdoor
Retreat offers travellers luxury mixed with shower and booking the Ariki Safari Tent
sustainability – and the chance to enjoy a for two includes a private claw-foot
slice of paradise with the knowledge that bath under the South Pacific stars and
their impact on the island and the greater complimentary bubbles on arrival.
environment is minimal.
The resort is set back slightly from the
The resort, which offers traditional ocean to reduce its impact on the marine
Polynesian Are rooms as well as environment but the water is just a
glamping-style safari tents, doesn’t short walk away – and Rarotonga’s best
scrimp on luxuries with soft bed linens swimming beach is easily reached on one
and waffle robes, but adds in sustainable of the resort’s complimentary bicycles.
extras such as reusable tote bags for
shopping, reusable coffee cups (to be Owners Matt and Luana Scowcroft say
filled with fresh, fairtrade coffee roasted sustainability is at the heart of everything
on the island) and refillable flagons to they do at Ikurangi. It was behind the
use at the local craft brewery (part- decision to use safari tents, shallow
owned by Auckland’s Hallertau Brewery). foundations for decking, composting
toilets, sustainably sourced materials,
Ikurangi, which was a winner in the and natural, biodegradable toiletries
Air New Zealand Cook Islands Tourism and cleaning products. They were also
Awards 2016/2017, is small, with just four adamant that the comfort and luxury
safari tents and two Are, all carefully expected by guests would not be
placed to ensure guests can enjoy not compromised along the way.
only privacy but the stunning views of

CLUB MED OPENS LUXURY RESORT IN ITALY

Located on the northern coast of Sicily in a quaint
traditional fishing village with breathtaking panoramic
views, Club Med Cefalu will be the first 5-Trident resort
in the Mediterranean when it opens mid-next year.
The picturesque old town, positioned away from
crowded hot spots and with a backdrop of rugged
cliffs, features charming winding alleys, a dramatic
cathedral, beautiful sandy beaches and stunning
180-degree views over the bay.
Club Med Cefalu will open its doors to guests from
June 2018 and will be a flagship for Club Med’s
innovation, premium guest benefits and personalised
services. It will offer Kiwis the chance to experience
all the best Italy has to offer, such as sophisticated the resort’s specialty restaurant, the The resort will also feature a Zen Bar
Italian design and the charm of Italian life mixed with
the warm, inviting Club Med touch. Palazzo Gourmet Lounge, will serve and Zen Pool, situated in secluded
an à la carte dinner menu designed surroundings away from the main
As part of Club Med’s premium 5-Trident tailored by renowned Michelin 4-star chef, area of the resort for guests wanting
experience, guests at Cefalu will experience Andrea Berton. A wine bar will offer peace and tranquillity. Cefalu will also
exquisite service from arrival to departure. This cigars while an in-resort delicatessen be the first resort to offer a stand-up
includes a personalised welcome at the airport in partnership with food retailer Eataly paddleboard academy.
with a private transfer to the resort. For foodies, will be open throughout the day.

HELLOWORLD : EXPLORE : SUMMER EDITION