Banyan Tree Macau’s Pool Villa
Photo Courtesy of Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts
Macau may be best known for its big-name resorts, high-voltage entertainment and flashy casinos — all of which appear to have been dipped in gold — but the special administration of China is also a hot spot for a luxurious, romantic getaway. Travelers looking to take refuge from all the neon and noise will want to check into one of these over-the-top suites for an intimate vacation.
Altira Macau
Opened in 2009, Altira Macau has continued to impress discerning travelers, consistently earning its Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star status. It’s not hard to see why, as Altira Macau succeeds in understated luxury and superlative service.
Altira Macau, Photo Courtesy of Altira Macau
The experience begins in the panoramic reception area on the 38th floor, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows as well as the sophisticated 38 Lounge — a fitting arrangement, seeing as Altira means “high” in Latin and “cutting edge” in Chinese.
Of the hotel’s spectacular units, the stars of the show are the four villas, which showcase a warm brown and beige palette, breathtaking views, plasma-screen TVs, an enormous Japanese-style stone bathtub, separate dining and living rooms, and a fully stocked bar that will come in handy if you’re spending the night in.
But should you ever feel the need to leave your luxurious lodgings, check out Five-Star Aurora for Italian cuisine, Five-Star Tenmasa for a Japanese experience or just relax at the Five-Star Altira Spa.
Banyan Tree Macau
Part of the golden Galaxy Macau entertainment complex, Banyan Tree Macau is one of the brand’s most indulgent properties. Sky-high ceilings usher you inside, where a creamy marble and dark wood interior is reminiscent of Thailand, and relaxing melodies played on a kheem (a traditional Thai instrument) fill the air.
Every room at the Five-Star hotel is a suite, starting at a spacious 1,076 square feet in size. Each has its own relaxation pool, floor-to-ceiling windows, a custom-designed wooden bathtub and a decadent daily afternoon tea set. The entire experience has been designed with couples in mind (see: his-and-hers showerheads).
It only gets more lavish from there: the 1,399-square-foot Spa Sanctuary Suite comes with couple’s spa treatment room, unlimited treatments and a specially designed double-jet pool.
But the ultimate retreat? Book one of the 10 expansive Pool Villas, which begin at 4,844 square feet but stretch to 10,226 square feet of sumptuous living space. Located in the heart of the resort deck, the villas have their own private swimming pools, jet pools, separate dining rooms, living areas, private steam room and even a personal “villa host” to fulfill your every whim.
The St. Regis Macao, Cotai Central’s Presidential Suite, Photo Courtesy of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc
The St. Regis Macao, Cotai Central
The most recent luxury addition in Macau is The St. Regis Macao, Cotai Central, which opened its doors in late 2015. Joining the stable of Starwood properties in the Cotai Central complex — also home to the world’s largest Sheraton, Five-Star Conrad and Four-Star Holiday Inn — The St. Regis Macao sets itself apart with a discreet entrance. The sophisticated environment lures you in with a glittering art installation in the lobby and a beautiful marble staircase leading up to the reception area.
Equipped with St. Regis’ iconic butler service, you will want for nothing at this palatial address and, starting at 1,068 square feet, the suites take decadence to the next level. The Empire suites, for example, range from 1,141 to 2,282 square feet and come complete with eight separate rooms.
Naturally, the Presidential Suite, at 5,134 square feet, is the crown jewel, featuring Chinese architectural accents, several dining alcoves, contemporary artwork and unparalleled views of the Cotai Strip.
But the indulgences don’t stop there: check out the 38th-floor Iridium Spa, which specializes in gemstone-inspired treatments; The Manor restaurant serves impeccable global fare; and The St. Regis Bar will spoil you with its very own locally inspired Bloody Mary (known as Maria do Leste), a gin trolley and nightly live music.
