Beach – Quintessentially Travel

Grenada & The Grenadines

Camilla Morlacchi — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 13:35:39 +0000

This trip brings together the charm and natural beauty of two breathtaking Caribbean destinations. You’ll begin with Grenada, known as the “Spice Island”. Your time here can be as active or as laid back as you like – explore the colourful capital of St. George’s, snorkel the world’s first underwater sculpture park, or simply unwind with a rum punch at the edge of Grand Anse Beach. Then off to The Grenadines, a chain of idyllic islands stretching between Grenada and St. Vincent. You’ll spend 7 nights in picture-perfect Bequia, where unspoiled white sands meet crystal-clear waters. Think secluded coves, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back island life.

Founded by passion, fuelled by female empowerment

Jess Purcell — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 14:46:16 +0000

For over a hundred years, International Women’s Day has celebrated the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. And with an all-female senior team here at Quintessentially Travel, we’re passionate about empowering women and shining a spotlight on trailblazers in the travel industry, this year highlighting the journey of Esin Güral Argat, the founder of JOALI, an award-winning luxury brand with two unique Maldives island resorts.

Since opening in 2018, JOALI Maldives has quickly risen to the top of luxury travellers’ bucket lists as one of the most irresistible resorts in the Maldives. And while the extraordinary appeal of the islands is evident at first glance, it is the foundation of JOALI’s founder, story and values that contributes to its remarkable success.

We caught up with Esin to delve deeper into the origin of JOALI and its unique concept, learning more about how female empowerment and passion are rooted in the resort and her three non-negotiables for success.

What was the meaning behind the name JOALI?

“JOALI is a name that embodies joy. At its heart, it represents ‘the joy of living,’ a philosophy that shapes every experience at JOALI Maldives. At JOALI BEING, this philosophy evolves into the ‘joy of weightlessness,’ a journey of wellbeing and transformation.

The name is also deeply rooted in Maldivian heritage. In Dhivehi, a ‘joali’ refers to a handcrafted woven chair, found at the entrance of nearly every island home. It is a symbol of welcome, a place where life slows down and moments of connection are cherished. With JOALI, we sought to create a haven where this same spirit comes alive. A place where artistry and nature converge to inspire a deep sense of belonging and joy.”

How did you come up with the concept?

“From the beginning, I envisioned JOALI as more than just a destination. It had to be a lifestyle, a philosophy that stays with you long after you leave. I wanted to create something with a soul, a place that would foster a deep emotional connection beyond impeccable service and stunning design.

JOALI Maldives was the first step in this journey. As the first art-immersive resort in the Maldives, it transforms the island into a living gallery through interactive installations and objets d’art. With JOALI BEING, we introduced the first wellbeing island of its kind, a sanctuary dedicated to transformation where science and ancient wisdom come together to create the ‘joy of weightlessness.’ Most recently, JOALI Island Homes redefines island living, offering a rare opportunity to own a private residence fully immersed in JOALI’s world of wellbeing.

Every element of JOALI is deeply personal to me. I was involved in every detail, from the architecture and landscaping to the carefully curated art collections and wellbeing spaces. It is a brand that continues to evolve, not just as a hospitality concept but as a way of life.”

What makes JOALI different from other Maldives properties?

“Throughout my travels, I found that while many luxury hotels offered great food, beautiful design, and intuitive service, they often lacked something deeper, a soul. What sets JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING apart is this spirit, an energy that surrounds and connects our guests the moment they arrive. It is intangible yet deeply felt.

JOALI Maldives is the first and only art-immersive resort in the Maldives, home to over 18 interactive installations created by world-renowned artists. Culinary artistry is also a defining element, with signature restaurant concepts and menus shaped by Michelin-starred chefs, from the Nikkei cuisine at Saoke to Italian specialities at Bellinis.

At JOALI BEING, we took this vision further by introducing the first dedicated wellbeing island of its kind. With over 39 transformational spaces, guests embark on deeply personalised wellbeing journeys guided by experts in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, sound healing, and energy work. The island is designed around biophilic principles, seamlessly blending architecture with nature to create an environment of true weightlessness.

JOALI is a lifestyle brand that blurs the lines of hospitality. Through collaborations with visionary designers like Aquazzura and incredible brands such as Ruinart Champagne, immersive dining experiences with world-renowned chefs, and curated wellbeing journeys, we create unforgettable moments of joy.”

We know you are passionate about female empowerment. How do you feel this reflects in the JOALI brand?

“Empowering women has always been a personal mission for me, and it is deeply woven into JOALI’s identity. I believe that diversity is a valuable asset. At JOALI, we are committed to creating opportunities for women to grow, lead, and redefine possibilities in hospitality. In fact, JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING have been awarded the highest female ratio for a resort in the Maldives by the Ministry of Tourism for the past two consecutive years.

Our Leadership and Gender Diversity Programme is aligned with the UN Women’s gender equality campaign, ensuring meaningful career pathways for women at every level of our organisation. Through mentorship, leadership training, and skill development, we foster an environment where women can thrive. The Women in Art initiative at JOALI Maldives, launched in 2020, provides a vital platform for emerging Maldivian female artists, allowing them to showcase their talent and collaborate with renowned creatives. We also conduct art workshops for girls in local schools, nurturing the next generation of artists and storytellers.

As an independently owned and forward-thinking brand, JOALI has the freedom to challenge conventions and champion a culture of inclusivity. We embrace new ideas, invest in the aspirations of women, and continue to shape a workplace where passion is celebrated.”

What are three things you would tell your younger self?

“If I could give my younger self three pieces of advice, the first would be to never give up. Challenges will come, but perseverance and focus always lead to results. No matter how difficult the journey, staying true to your purpose and pushing forward will always open new doors.

The second would be to surround yourself with passionate and dedicated people. Success is never built alone. It is about moving forward together, uplifting one another, and creating an environment where ideas are nurtured. A great team is one that shares not only skills but also a collective spirit of joy and purpose.

Lastly, always lead with fairness and integrity. A workplace thrives when people feel valued, respected, and inspired. True success is not just about reaching milestones; it is about shaping a journey that is meaningful, fulfilling, and shared with those who inspire you.”

The Quintessential touch

Want to experience JOALI? We hold VIP Preferred Partner status with all of the finest hotels in each locale, meaning you can enjoy excellent facilities, impeccable service and all those little extras and benefits which are instrumental in getting the most out of your time away. For more information about the luxury travel services we provide, get in touch with Quintessentially Travel today.

Esperanza

Jess Purcell — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 16:34:12 +0000

Overlooking the Sea of Cortez on the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula in Cabo, Mexico, you’ll find Esperanza. Just 30 minutes from San Jose del Cabo International Airport, the resort is an indulgent escape made up of luxurious casitas and suites, a beachfront infinity pool, a full-service spa, six dining and drinking venues, a fitness centre and an extensive programme of activities.

The casitas and suites all have incredible ocean views from spacious balconies with outdoor seating and an infinity-edge hot tub or hammock. All accommodations are beautifully designed, weaving in natural elements, handcrafted Mexican furniture, a calming coastal colour palette and state-of-the-art in-room technology. The resort also has a collection of grand villas, with one, two, three and four-bedroom options, offering a spacious retreat for larger groups and family stays.

Guests can unwind and explore with one of the resorts’ many activities. Go sailing, sport fishing or whale watching. Tee up on the championship golf course. Go horseback riding along the beach or unleash your adventurous side on an ATV excursion. And that’s just a taste of what to expect.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Jess Purcell — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 15:41:45 +0000

If pristine private beaches, exquisite service and palatial-like retreats are something you’re partial to, look no further than Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. Located in the vibrant and prestigious capital city of the United Arab Emirates, the hotel is a jewel in the crown of Abu Dhabi, providing an idyllic and picturesque base to explore Abu Dhabi’s attractions, historic sites, grand mosques and cultural landmarks.

Opulence is quite literally woven into the hotels’ DNA, boasting more marble and gold leaf than any other development in the UAE. Think grand architecture, gold-plated ceilings, Swarovski crystal door handles and 100 hectares of manicured landscapes and regal surroundings. There are 302 guest rooms and 88 suites, each tastefully decorated with plush carpets, muted gold tones and ornate details, with views of the verdant gardens or Arabian Gulf.

The dining and drinking scene is extensive, featuring 12 incredible venues, of which some are Michelin-starred too. From iconic modern Cantonese favourite Hakkasan to seaside open-fire cooking, Japanese cuisine, a modern American brasserie, contemporary Indian fine dining and so much more.

Relaxing is made easy at the spa, complete with a Royal Hammam, private spa cabanas, signature treatments and a kids spa for the little ones too. Offering a range of activities for the entire family, guests can enjoy the two spectacular swimming pools, complimentary bicycles, state-of-the-art fitness centres, complimentary camel rides along the beach, water sports in abundance and a kids club too.

Madinat Jumeirah

Jess Purcell — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 09:50:18 +0000

Resembling a charming old Arabian town, Madinat Jumeirah blends four unique hotels with world-class dining, incredible wellness and leisure amenities and unforgettable experiences. The picturesque walkways and lined with palm trees, overlooking the shimmering Arabian Gulf. Stay at Jumeirah Al Qasr for palatial luxury inspired by 1,001 Arabian nights, Jumeirah Al Naseem for a stylish beachside retreat, Jumeirah Mina Al Salam for a boutique feel, and Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf for an intimate collection of Arabian Houses.

Each hotel has its own character and charm, in effortless harmony with the rest of the expansive resort. Dining highlights include Pierchic and Pai Thai, and the Shimmers and Summersalt Beach Clubs are an ideal spot to enjoy a glamorous afternoon. Guests are never short of things to do here, with the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, wellness facilities, Wild Wadi Waterpark, incredible pools and sandy beaches right on your doorstep.

Jumeirah Burj Al Arab

Jess Purcell — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 09:19:48 +0000

There’s no place quite as impressive in Dubai as the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. An icon on the shimmering coastline of the Arabian Gulf, this internationally acclaimed sail-like building is home to an extraordinary collection of regal suites, world-class fine dining experiences, an award-winning spa, and an ambient beach club.

Considered as one of the most luxurious hotels in the world, a stay here is bound to be nothing short of exceptional. Each suite is designed with Arabian touches, rich textures and vibrant colours, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows for the most breathtaking views. Spanning over two floors connected by grand staircases, the expansive suites provide a sense of complete exclusivity and opulence.

Guests are spoilt for choice with nine dining and drinking venues, one of which is completely dedicated to French patisserie, alongside a Michelin-starred restaurant, an incredibly chic beach club and an underwater Italian dining experience. The Terrace pool is set at the foot of this sail-like icon, offering uninterrupted views of the glittering gulf. If you’re seeking a space to completely unwind, the Talise Spa has infinity pools, athlete-level fitness facilities, a renowned yoga studio and a curated menu of revitalising signature treatments.

Jumeirah Al Qasr

Jess Purcell — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 17:23:40 +0000

An oasis on one of Dubai’s most prestigious shorelines, Jumeirah Al Qasr is a regal Arabian escape, blending traditional architecture with quaint waterways, manicured gardens and palm trees. The accommodation is elegant, harmonising local influences, intricate design and contemporary style. Guests can choose from luxurious rooms to larger, multi-bedroom suites.

The dining offering at Jumeriah Al Qasr is nothing short of exceptional, with many visiting the resort to sample its collection of award-winning and stylish restaurants. The resort is home to world-renowned and firm favourites Pierchic and Pai Thai, in addition to seven more venues and a Mediterranean-inspired beach club.

Set within the serene waterways and tropical gardens, the Talise Spa provides a selection of signature treatments, guided yoga and meditation. The J Club at nearby Jumeirah Mina Al Salam is the perfect place to reach your fitness goals in the well-equipped gym, indoor lap pool, private beach and tennis, squash and padel courts.

Four Seasons Punta Mita

Jess Purcell — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 10:43:25 +0000

Four Seasons Punta Mita is a family-friendly beachside retreat on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, close to Puerto Vallarta and Saylita. Made up of oceanfront casitas, suites, residences, homes and villas, the luxurious and spacious accommodations are perfect for group getaways and romantic escapes. Indulge with a plunge pool suite, ocean view penthouse or expansive five-bedroom villa.

Spend your afternoons lazing by the adults-only Tamai Pool or the picturesque infinity-edge Nuna Pool, cocktail in hand. Paying homage to its Mexican roots, guests are invited to blend their own one-of-a-kind tequila from authentic local barrels, while learning about the five tastes and 50 aromas of tequila. Keep fit in the state-of-the-art gym and CrossFit Centre, at a beach boot camp or yoga class. The spa provides a relaxing retreat with an extensive menu of traditional holistic treatments, in addition to sound healing, reiki and make-up and hair services.

Guests can enjoy access to two of the world’s top private golf courses, celebrated for their views and perfectly manicured greens, with the opportunity to play the iconic “Tail of the Whale” – the world’s only natural green island played at low tide. Unique activities include releasing baby sea turtles, horseback riding on the beach, chocolate tasting, canopy aerial adventures and more.

The resort is home to 11 dining and drinking venues, ranging from authentic Mexican, Asian, steak, seafood and American cuisine, to cocktails on the beach, fruit smoothies in the laidback lounge, and expert mixologists in a tequila-themed bar.

The Rooster Antiparos

Jess Purcell — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 14:57:48 +0000

Discover The Rooster Antiparos, a picturesque destination in the Cyclades that is part resort, part retreat. It is a small, intimate and remote hotel, offering the epitome of bohemian laidback luxury, inspired by the simplicity of the Cycladic way of life.

Guests are accommodated in their own “homes”, taking inspiration from the island’s farmer’s cottages, designed with dry-stone walls, natural elements, understated nomadic aesthetic, driftwood and linen. Feel instantly at ease in the open indoor-outdoor living areas, with views of the ocean and grassland, and your own private pool. The Farmhouse is the largest of the accommodations, just 1.5km from the main resort and a three-bedroom private residence with even more space for family and friends.

The restaurant celebrates the wholesome and seasonal cuisine of the region, featuring farm-to-fork feasts, wood-fired lunches, cooking classes and communal Sunday Suppers. The open-air bar has views aplenty, providing an idyllic backdrop for post-dinner cocktails and late-night stargazing. For an elevated dining experience, the Secret Garden and Tipis are enchanting venues where you can enjoy the beauty of the island surroundings accompanied by wine, seasonal menus or a picnic basket brimming with local fare.

Relax by the pool, go for an invigorating sunrise swim, peruse the boutique, take part in a yoga class, go wine tasting, head out on an ocean adventure, unwind in the gym or indulge in a restorative treatment in The House of Healing spa.

Bodrum EDITION

Jess Purcell — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 10:50:52 +0000

Located at the western point of the peninsula, the Bodrum EDITION hotel is nestled on the shimmering waters of a secluded bay, just minutes from Bodrum Castle and Bodrum Amphitheatre. Featuring 110 guest rooms, suites and villas, the boutique hotel offers a new generation of luxury. The rooms feature a soothing neutral palette, custom-designed furnishings, indulgent marble bathrooms and some with Aegan Sea views, private pools, balconies and gardens.

Home to a state-of-the-art spa, including a salon, Turkish Hamman and fitness centre. Days here can be spent lounging by the infinity pool or at the exclusive beach club, further enhanced by various all-day restaurants, Michelin-starred dining, speciality grills, a night club and two bars. Try your hand at one of the many beachfront activities or explore the upscale shopping mall, high-end restaurants, bars and clubs at the nearby Yalıkavak Marina.