The old picture of an ultra-luxury resort is invariably that of a deserted, immaculate sanctuary: a private island, a game reserve or a subterranean cave where one can commune with nature without discernible human intervention. Service is brisk yet unobtrusive, and nature is discreetly mediated so that the sand is always even on the beach and the hedges always drooping under the weight of perfect flowers no matter the season. One never ever sets eyes on the personal butler who unpacks the luggage and hangs the clothes in the villa, and leaves the tub filled with warm fizzy water.
Put that picture next to some of the ultra-luxury resorts today and you will find a stark contrast: Children climbing the hills on llamas, mud-caked female guests exchanging beauty tips with the women of the tribe, and men in loincloths bonding with the community elders in a cave that is heated with lava stones to a constant 80 degrees Celsius. The guest at such resorts does not need the dinner entrée to be read and explained to him — he can actually milk the yak on the adjoining farm, if he is inclined, and help churn it into butter for lunch.
The transformation of most ultra-luxury resorts is revolutionary. It is in most parts anchored on delivering unique, authentic experiences that are in turn supported by sustainability and community. Says Mr. Bill Bensley of the design practice Bensley: “Nature [has become] synonymous with sustainability, and the opportunity to reconnect with it is something that many who can access luxury actively seek.”
Better for Longer
This story is from the April 2020 edition of PORTFOLIO Magazine.
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This story is from the April 2020 edition of PORTFOLIO Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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