32Isea&iIWINTER 2011Leela PalaceThe Leela Group, consisting of palaces, hotelsand resorts, is showcasing its latest propertyin New Delhi, where it reflects the trueessence of India. Opened in autumn 2010, thisimpressive Leela property is located in theexclusive Diplomatic Enclave next to the PrimeMinister's residence.Opulent interiors to suit all tastes draw froma range of inspirations, fromthecutting edge ofcontemporary design to a more classical easternaesthetic. Along with its sumptuous design, thehotel features Japanese, Indian and Italianrestaurants, a heated rooftop swimming pooland an exclusive spa with a state-of-the-artfitness centre. www.theleela.com Orient-Express expandsThe Orient-Express group, originallyfamous for its luxury train journeys fromLondon to Venice, has expanded vastlyover the last decade and now featureshotels and unique journeys worldwide. Thenewest additions to the collection includetwo hotels in Sicily. Villa Sant'Andreabenefits from a seaside location and hasover 60 rooms and suites withviews over aprivate beach in the Bay of Mazzarò.Grand Hotel Timeo, meanwhile, is situatedin the historical centre of Taormina. Thegroup is also developing further outside ofEurope with a new rail voyage aboard theEastern & Oriental Express. These new railvoyages will pass through Thailand,Malaysia, Laos and Singapore, with allitineraries offering an extensiveprogramme of exciting excursions,overnightoff-trainexperiences and guestlecturers.www.orient-express.com

WINTER 2011Isea&iI33travelnewsRITZ PICKINGS Fancy an exclusive four-dayphotography workshopwith a National Geographicphotographer? Or a personalshopping trip with a fashionexpert at Neiman Marcus orBergdorf Goodman? If youhave been a loyal guest at Ritz-Carlton hotels you may well bein luck. The company hasrecently launched its much-anticipated Ritz-Carlton Rewards programme that recognises its most frequent guests byoffering them a broad selection of unique global travel experiences. The programme seesRitz-Carlton partner with leading names worldwide, with many more set to join them inthe future. Membership is complimentary and guests can enrol by visiting hotel front desksor register online atwww.ritzcarltonrewards.comWith the world becoming ever-more accessible,genuine exploration and dynamic travel canbecome a challenge, but Momentum Adventureis making it possible to experience the mostexhilarating of adventures. This unique travel company visits more than20 destinations worldwide and, staffed byseasoned expedition experts, has tailored threeincredible quest packages that are perfect foradrenaline junkies. Expeditions take place in both tropical and sub-zero climates and embrace mountainascents,state-of-the-art dune buggy drives across theVizcaino and Sonoran deserts, and snowmobiletrips across the Arctic. The hard-core only needapply. www.momentumadventure.com Gaining momentumLive like royaltyFollowing the first phase of its restoration, theFalaknuma Palace, Hyderabad in India, hasre-opened as a luxury palace hotel with 60rooms. Original features of the palace havebeen retained, including the Nizam's suite,the 101-seater dining room and the gardens. Along with its rich historical background,the Palace offers the finest service, and visitorscan experience what it is like to be a personalguest of the Nizam.www.tajhotels.comhAustin powers aheadIf you fancy an early Christmas present, treatyourself to a night at the newly launched WAustin, opening on 9 December. Luxuriatingon the vibrant Second Street in Austin, Texas,the hotel has a welcoming, spirited vibe andoffers guests a fitness centre, spa, outdoorpool, two restaurants, poolside dining and251 guest rooms and suites. Sold as a flirty,fun, fresh experience, the hotel is a colourfuladdition to this sizzling US city. www.starwoodhotels.comIn:spa gains a new property An 18th century monastery set in the peacefulunspoilt countryside of southern Spain is theideal location for the new in:spa healthretreat. This new institution offers endlesshiking and mountain biking opportunitieswith stunning scenery and warm sunshineamong the scenic Spanish hills near Gaucin. The monastery features stylish andspacious accommodation with periodfittings all combined with 21st centurycomforts. Guests can make use of theenormous swimming pool or enjoy alfrescodining in the courtyard gardens or on theterraces, where the freshest, healthiestcuisine is served.In keeping with the in:spa enterprise, anexpert team of specialists is on hand at alltimes, including yoga teachers, massagetherapists, personal trainers, nutritionistsand chefs. www.inspa.co.uk