Accommodation

Fringed by cobalt waters and dazzling beaches, Fiji’s Laucala takes luxury to a whole new level, thanks to mega investment from Red Bull baron Dietrich Mateschitz. Kendall Hill wings his way to the ultra-exclusive eco-chic destination to discover the private paradise setting a new benchmark in the South Pacific.

He’s headed to New Zealand’s Central Otago and settled into the luxurious Matakauri Lodge but Rob Ingram has a problem: he never wants to leave.

There’s something big happening on the small island. In a pocket of pristine Tasmanian wilderness, Leo Schofield discovers Saffire Freycinet, a new luxury lodge that offers five-star polish in an untamed setting.

Travelling from the Great Karoo to the Kruger, Emma Ventura discovers South Africa’s sumptuous lodges, spectacular animals and the stirring beauty of wide, brown plains. Zebra roll in dust baths, wildebeest charge across the horizon and hippos huff bubbles in murky ponds. Welcome to the safari. PHOTOGRAPHY JULIAN KINGMA

Travelling from the Great Karoo to the Kruger, Emma Ventura discovers South Africa’s sumptuous lodges, spectacular animals and the stirring beauty of wide, brown plains. Zebra roll in dust baths, wildebeest charge across the horizon and hippos huff bubbles in murky ponds. Welcome to the safari.

The sleek aesthetic of Crown Metropol – the latest addition to Melbourne’s sprawling Crown development – will appeal to hip younger things, writes Kendall Hill.

Discover two luxury lodges which are microcosms of all that’s great about New Zealand: effortlessly warm hospitality, cinematic landscapes and adventure on tap. Action-man Kendall Hill checks in and gets in touch with his masculine side.

On the run from the law, Kendall Hill seeks refuge in cocktails, canapés and the effortlessly stylish interiors of Lord Howe Island’s newly revamped Capella Lodge.

Staycation, holiday at home, mini-break – call it what you will, there’s never been a better time to explore our own shores, and all that lies between them. Pack an overnight bag and take your pick from a dozen of our favourite Australian getaways.

Sharp, smart and just a little kooky, Hilton’s new Melbourne venture is a sleek accommodation option in the city’s burgeoning hotel landscape, writes Emily Ross.