NIHI SUMBA ISLAND
I made a pact to myself last year … to start visiting new destinations, and while I did tick off some newbies such as Argentina, Chile, South Africa and Kenya, I decided to end the year at one of my favourite destinations – Nihi Sumba Island.
The resort has once again been named: “Best Hotel in the World” by readers of travel style-bible Travel + Leisure (second year on a row), so I made plans to return, and see if it really does continue to deliver the goods.
YOU’LL NEVER WANT TO LEAVE
Well, three nights turned into seven so that’s a good sign! (50% of guests extend their stay here if space allows – you have been warned) Go for seven nights minimum, ten nights would be the perfect amount of time. I call it a safari by the sea, where else can you be at-one with nature and connect with local village life untouched by time? All the while staying in luxe lodging worthy of all the awards it receives. In fact, interiors haven’t faltered, they look better than ever as the hotel is constantly refurbing and updating all the soft furnishings to keep it pristine and perfect. I dare you to check those fresh white canvas umbrellas all over the resort, you won’t find a stain anywhere!
SLEEPING IN STYLE
All the rooms are different (and fab), I’ve seen them all and it’s hard to choose a favourite. The Mendaka Estate would be my pick for a super indulgent family vacay or friends’ group birthday celebration (there are five villas here, each with their own pool and a stunning shared beachfront pool – it’s off the charts gorgeous!). Or for a secret hideaway where you won’t be disturbed, go for the Marangga Villas and cocoon away for days – favoured by celebrities, you can do what you like here, no one can see you. And did I mention the bathrooms???
YOU HAVE TO EAT
Being so isolated, you’d be forgiven to think the food might be hit or miss, but here on Nihi food is important, the new chef has just landed from Tahiti and he’s cooking up a storm! I enjoyed the best steak ever here and if you can’t decide from the extensive menu at breakfast, lunch and dinner then go local … Indonesian food is soul quenching. And as all of your meals are included in your rate, you might as well try it all!
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?
So yes, Nihi Sumba Island is still the best hotel in the world, go now and you can walk that beach every day with only your own footprints for company.
*Mr Wallace stayed as a guest of Nihi Sumba Island for three nights and extended his stay under his own arrangements. It’s that good!
BOOK NOW!
If you are interested in making a reservation at Nihi, please contact me here or complete the form below and one of my team will be in touch with you right away!
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