Perched on a private island off Georgia’s coast, The Cloister sits amid 50 lush acres of marshes, river and sea - its Mediterranean‑style architecture, terra‑cotta roofs and stone‑arched cloisters exude timeless elegance. The property offers a wide variety of accommodations - rooms, suites, Beach Club suites, and Ocean Residences - depending on the location, these can have views of the marshlands, river or Atlantic Ocean.

Staying there gives you access to a spa rated by Forbes, multiple swimming pools, three championship‑calibre golf courses, tennis, boating, horseback riding, and 5 miles of pristine private beach through the resort’s Beach Club. Dining is worthy of its reputation: the resort’s fine‑dining venue, Georgian Room, is the only Forbes Five‑Star restaurant in Georgia, and other on‑site venues cover everything from relaxed river‑view lunches to Italian and casual seafood fare.

Tucked in Charleston’s historic Ansonborough neighbourhood, Zero George Hotel is a boutique retreat made up of restorations of early‑19th century row houses and carriage houses originally built in 1804. The property offers just 16 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each combining original architectural details like heart-pine floors and millwork with discreet contemporary design, plus access to shared sheltered courtyards and verandas.

Dining is a highlight at Zero George: the on-site “The Restaurant at Zero George” serves a refined tasting menu using seasonal local ingredients, and there's also the intimate 8‑seat Caviar Bar. Guests are treated to thoughtful hospitality; from complimentary bicycles, a European-style breakfast, nightly wine‑and‑cheese on the piazza, to concierge services that can arrange private carriage rides, cooking classes or harbour sails.

Maison Métier feels like a Parisian pied-à-terre reimagined for New Orleans - intimate, artistic, and quietly elegant. Tucked in the Warehouse District, its rooms offer a serene contrast to the vibrant streets just beyond, with a palette of soft neutrals, sculptural lighting, and global art.

The vibe is more private residence than hotel: cocktail hour in the lounge, soft jazz humming in the background, and a sense of calm sophistication. For travelers who love character without chaos, Maison Métier is a stylish, soulful retreat with its own rhythm.

Reachable only by boat or seaplane, Little Palm Island feels like a secret whispered to just a few. Private thatched-roof bungalows hide among swaying palms, with no phones, no TVs - just sea breezes and the occasional Key deer wandering by.

Hammocks, moonlight dinners, and outdoor copper tubs turn simplicity into seduction. Yet nothing is left to chance: every detail is attended to with quiet precision. It’s barefoot luxury in its purest form - wild, romantic, and deeply restful.

Overlooking Lady Bird Lake, the Four Seasons Austin blends relaxed elegance with a touch of Texas warmth. Floor-to-ceiling windows open to shimmering water and city skyline; inside, natural woods and soft tones reflect the landscape.

Days begin with a paddle-board or a slow coffee on the terrace, and end with margaritas in the garden or live music downtown. Service is effortless, always nearby but never too much. It’s an oasis in the heart of Austin -- low-key luxury with soul.