Writer Codelia Mantsebo heads to Truro in Cornwall and discovers the Alverton Hotel — a tranquil Victorian-Gothic gem filled with utter indulgence

Perched on the edge of an idyllic natural lagoon, filled with dramatic views at every turn, Four Seasons Resort Mauritius is exactly what I’d imagined paradise to be, writes Codelia Mantsebo.

Brand new hotel, Château de Fonscolombe may be in its early years, but this castle hotel is a historical monument in its own right. And even after being rebirthed as a five-star hotel, the chateau preserves a historic spirit that goes back at least three centuries.

The beauty of Maradiva Villas Resort and Spa can be found in its surrounding tropical settings, spectacular sunset views or perhaps even in the staff’s impeccable service. But the true magic of this resort is found in the sense of total privacy from its villas.

Now in its third season, the newly-opened Barrière Les Neiges is the latest luxury addition that Courchevel never knew it needed. The new hotel exceeds expectations, and positions itself as a luxurious, cosy cocoon in France’s most upscale ski resort.

Have you ever wanted to play the sport of kings? Codelia Mantsebo takes the reins at Princes William and Harry's favourite polo location

Gone are the days when dining in your catered ski chalet meant half-baked Camembert or coq au vin served in strict rotation, writes Codelia Mantsebo. The Duck and Waffle has arrived in Val d'Isere

The Al Mahara is typical of the vivid imagination behind the creation of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah; the extraordinary and unique experience dining within the vast aquarium sets the scene for the critically acclaimed seafood connoisseur, Nathan Outlaw, writes Codelia Mantsebo

With a design concept created around art, time and nature, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva, has been thoughtfully renovated to introduce a new era in its evolving legacy, writes Codelia Mantsebo

Codelia Mantsebo checks in at Jumeirah’s first leisure resort in Europe and discovers the natural beauty of the ‘Valley of Gold’

The imposing gates of the St. Regis Mardavall on the magical island of Palma de Mallorca illustrate more of a wealthy landowner’s hacienda than a luxury hotel, but that’s the beauty of this stunning hotel, writes Codelia Mantsebo

Cala di Volpe still lives up to the setting it was designed to be: an elite, laid-back playground for the ultra-wealthy and famous – but an initial glimpse of the property does not unveil its true, understated elegance, writes Codelia Mantsebo

Providing a sublime experience against a backdrop of immaculately manicured gardens, azure sea views and vineyards, this boutique hotel transports you to a tranquil slice of heaven as soon as you enter its traditional Menorcan wooden gates…

Awash with a celebration of haute-couture style documented in an Instagram induced frenzy, it’s easy to see why Hôtel Plaza Athénée is the headquaters of the world’s elite during Fashion Week, writes Codelia Mantsebo

Surrounded by the manicured greens of one of the world’s finest golf courses, an intoxicating mix of restaurants and activities and with stunning views on every doorstep, the Aphrodite Hills Luxury Villas and Apartments have to be seen to be believed, writes Codelia Mantsebo

For those of us whose holiday dreams are bigger than our budgets, travelling to far-flung destinations in ultraluxe hotels is a one way ticket to breaking the bank

Of course, a spa break is to help you relax, recharge and refresh. You’re there to indulge in uninterrupted relaxation – phones off! But if the spa has pool with chandeliers, or an underwater music system, or an ice fountain, it would be rude not to take a snap for Instagram

Bid farewell to the old and ring in the New Year in Asia overlooking an infinity pool or make it a night to remember and gaze at a sky full of fireworks from 118 stories high. Whether you wish to celebrate it in full revelry with fireworks in Taipei or get foamy in Sentosa, there is always something for every type of traveler in Asia

Nicknamed ‘the city that never sleeps’, New York’s most luxurious hotels offer everything from a pillow menu to customizable, heat-absorbing mattresses to ensure maximum snugness. Whether you’re looking for Old World opulence, celebrity-studded party scenes, or a private spa, you’ll find it in one of the best suites in New York.

The philosophy of traditional Tuscan cuisine is fresh, local ingredients, simply cooked. Relying heavily on traditional Italian meats and vegetables, cooked in the simplest way possible, often avoiding the use of heavy sauces