The thrill of the new. Nothing quite beats notching up a new destination or experience on the bedpost of life and, here at Original Travel, we're only too happy to help out by keeping you up to date with what's happening in the travel world. And we're in for an Autumn of new beginnings, with several hotels from some of our favourite groups opening around the globe. So if you want to not only keep up with the Joneses but surpass them entirely, here's where you should be heading to next...
Anantara Al Baleed, Oman
Salalah, a lush oasis in southern Oman, has long been considered one of the more intrepid destinations in the Middle East. The city itself sits along a beautiful coastline and is packed with culture and history, while also acting as a gateway to the magnificent Empty Quarter. The October opening of Anantara Al Baleed, the first luxury hotel in the area, is the final piece in the jigsaw, meaning travellers can now enjoy this region in complete comfort.
Miavana, Madagascar
Madagascar is a destination apart, literally and figuratively, with its European, African and Asian influences and wonderful diversity of flora and fauna, 80% of which is endemic to the island. While there are some lovely luxury hotel options already in Madagascar, Miavana, from the team at Time + Tide, will take things to the next level. Think spacious villas, panoramic views, unspoilt beaches and exceptional marine life.
Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelles
Opening in September, Six Senses' latest venture is located on Felicite, a private island in the Seychelles. Featuring the vast granite rocks and picture-perfect beaches synonymous with this corner of the Indian Ocean, the island sits outside the cyclone belt so is suspended in a state of perpetual summer. There are three beaches to choose from and a pool overlooking the ocean, but if you fancy something a little more active, there is also hiking, sailing, diving and fishing.
Anantara Al Jabal Akhdar, Oman
The folks at Anantara have been busy bees and yet another Omani hotel is opening in October this year, this time up in the mountains near Nizwa. Unlike its fellow United Arab Emirate states, Oman is blessed with epic scenery, from dramatic wadis to towering cliffs. Perched atop a canyon, the Anantara Al Jabal Akhdar will be perfect for those in search of both relaxation and adventure, and will combine brilliantly with Muscat.
Mongolia
Not a hotel and not so much new but new to us here at Original Travel, we are extremely excited to start offering trips to Mongolia having sent our very own Queen of Culture, Amelia Stewart, on a research trip earlier this year. With the lowest population density of any sovereign state in the world, Mongolia is home to big skies, vast landscapes and people who are warm, spiritual, liberal and courageous. For any been-there-done-that travellers, this should be top of your list.