The December Hideaway Report follows Andrew Harper's travels to southern Africa where he evaluates properties in Namibia, Zimbabwe and South Africa. Mr. Harper also discovers splendid new luxury hotel options in Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan.
Namibia
Stylish safari camp on a private concession just outside Skeleton Coast National Park close to the dry bed of the Hoanib River. Set wide apart, seven tented suites and one two-bedroom family unit feature sturdy canvas walls, large glass windows, wooden doors and electric lights (no A/C); each has a shaded outdoor deck and spacious bath.
Namibia
New safari camp backed by massive granite outcrops and facing a landscape of arid plains, 30 miles south of the main Wolwedans complex. Four exceptionally comfortable tented lodgings containing spacious en suite baths and four-poster beds with draped mosquito nets accommodate a maximum of eight people (and thus are ideal for a private group or multigenerational family vacation).
Zimbabwe
Eco-lodge set in the 130,000-acre private Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, a sanctuary for endangered species in the remote southeastern corner of Zimbabwe. Main stone lodge on a hilltop comprises a Jacuzzi, gym and cobalt-blue free-form pool on a wide wooden deck with serene lake views. Seven air-conditioned tented suites feature king-size beds with mosquito netting, private furnished porches with plunge pools, baths with soaking tubs and separate living areas decorated in a vibrant African style.
South Africa
Distinguished urban sanctuary set on a leafy eight-acre hilltop estate that comprises nine low-rise buildings linked by courtyards and walkways. The 117 roomy guest accommodations are decorated in an African-inspired fresh and modern style and come equipped with state-of-the-art baths done in tan and brown marble with soaking tubs and separate rain showers; most rooms include private garden terraces or balconies.
Japan
Distinguished 84-room hotel, Aman’s only urban property, set in the top six floors of the Otemachi Tower in the heart of the financial district, a short walk from Tokyo Station. Designed to evoke the feeling of being within a giant shoji lantern, the striking atrium lobby has 100-foot ceilings and two rock gardens.
Japan
Luxurious hotel conveniently located on the banks of the Kamo River within walking distance of the Imperial Palace and the Gion geisha district. Discreet entry gate leads to a four-tiered waterfall cascade next to the small lobby. The 134 guest accommodations feature a minimalist contemporary décor, floor-to-ceiling windows and marble baths with rainfall showers; rooms with tatami mats instead of traditional beds are available.