Destinations: Asia & The Pacific

Explore Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts destinations in Asia and The Pacific.

A Traveller’s Guide to Exploring Northern Thailand

Posted on by Lesley Murphy
Private hot tub Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle

At Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, the Deluxe Tent has its own custom-made wooden bathtub on the outdoor deck – the best way to relax in the jungle.
Photography courtesy Lesley Murphy

I caught my first glimpse of Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle on Instagram. From the moment I scrolled over the wooden bathtub surrounded by abundant greenery, like a scene out of The Jungle Book, I knew this was my kind of place.

The aptly named Golden Triangle sits at the intersection of three vastly different countries – Myanmar, Laos and Thailand. I soon learned that I could easily combine my trip to this land of bamboo jungles and outdoor adventure with a journey to the nearby Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, where I’d have a chance to dive into Thai culture by exploring Buddhist temples and visiting artistic communities.

Unable to resist the opportunity to take a tour of Thailand, I made my way to the northernmost point of this exotic country (travelling by planes, boats, automobiles and a three-wheeled tuk-tuk) and prepared for the adventure of a lifetime.

Day 1: Arrival at the Golden Triangle

I was greeted by Four Seasons staff upon landing in Chiang Rai, the former capital of the region’s Lanna Kingdom. The ride from Chiang Rai International Airport to our destination totalled an hour and a half, but it seemed much shorter given that the car was equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi – a globetrotter’s best friend.

When my private car turned off-road to drop me on the banks of the Ruak River, it was clear to me that Tented Camp was unlike any location I’d travelled to before. A traditional longtail boat took me the remaining few miles as Thailand’s old buildings and Myanmar’s overgrown grass and shrubbery materialised on either side.

As we docked at the pier, I noticed a large gong poised at the entrance of Camp. I was handed a mallet to strike the instrument three times for good luck, health and wealth. Ringing the gong also made my presence known to the area’s first inhabitants: elephants. I had officially arrived.

Deluxe Tent Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle

Although they’re tents, they still make for glamorous accommodations in the jungle. The 581-square-foot (54-square-metre) Deluxe Tent has its own king-size bed, full bath and outdoor rain shower.
Photography courtesy Lesley Murphy

After check-in, I had a look at my sleeping quarters. Camping with a small tent and sleeping bag has never been my strong suit. Exotic adventures are great, but not at the expense of running water and indoor plumbing. However at Tented Camp, 15 luxury tents offer an authentic hillside stay with all the romance of a lavish safari plus modern conveniences, including handcrafted leather furniture, hardwood floors and bathtubs with a view for two.

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle

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In my air-conditioned tent, I could zip and unzip “windows” to allow more of the fresh air inside. I could rise in the morning with the best alarm clock around – the call of the wild, as elephants began to wake. Standing alone in my tent, I spotted the terrace’s private hot tub and couldn’t help thinking this would be the ideal honeymoon for an intrepid couple. If this is camping, let me camp forever.

Day 2: Elephant trekking through the jungle

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Mahouts have adopted more than 10 elephants from the street, welcoming them to the natural habitat at Tented Camp.
Photography courtesy Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Tented Camp shares rolling hills with an elephant rehabilitation reserve, rescuing and adopting these gentle giants from the streets of Thailand. Elephants roam free on the property, which often allows for memorable meals. One morning, I was sitting at the breakfast table when two beautiful elephants came over and greeted me. I fed them their morning greens before indulging in my own pancakes.

After watching the majestic animals during my first couple of days at Camp, I decided it was time to learn a little more about my new neighbours by participating in one of the many elephant activities on offer here.

After a basic anatomy lesson from the Camp’s mahouts, we set off on a walk through the wilderness with the elephants – the best way to learn about these gentle giants is by keeping them company in their own natural habitat. As we watched them splash in the pond and enjoy their bath time, it was easy to see that each elephant had its own personality, just like human beings.

Day 3: Exploring Chiang Rai

Lychee at Chiang Rai market

As part of Camp’s Chiang Rai City Tour, visit the colourful Chiang Rai Night Bazaar to shop exotic fruits (such as lychee), taste street food and choose souvenirs to take home. After exploring, head to the market’s beer garden for a refreshing beverage.
Photography courtesy Thinkstock

This was the day to experience another side of Thailand – and collect a new passport stamp along the way.

With a Four Seasons guide, I made my way down to the caramel ribbons of the Ruak River to board a longtail boat. The Chiang Rai City Tour took me directly to the confluence of two rivers that form a natural boundary between the three countries, with Laos to the east of the Mekong River, Thailand to the west, and Myanmar to the north of the Ruak.

Once at the main square, the boat docked and the guide hailed a tuk-tuk – a three-wheeled vehicle common in Thailand – to take me to the culinary market. Beetles, crickets, flopping fish and snake-like creatures were for sale there. I didn’t sample the local delicacies this time around, but perhaps I can handle the non-traditional items on my next visit.

To discover a new country, I simply walked over the border to Myanmar, where I rode a tuk-tuk with an expert guide who showed me markets, St Jude’s Catholic Church and the Phra Jow La Keng Temple. I learned at the temple that there are Buddhas for the days of the week, and I made offerings to my Buddha (based on the day of the week I was born). Then it was back to Tented Camp.

Day 4: Journey to Chiang Mai

White Temple, Wat Rong Khun, Thailand

Construction on Wat Rong Khun, or The White Temple, began in 1997. While it has yet to be completed, the all-white structure is arguably the most memorable temple in Thailand.
Photography courtesy Theunis Viljoen

After a three-night escape in the bamboo jungle of Chiang Rai, I was sorry to say goodbye. But the four-hour drive south to Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai was very comfortable as I rode in a luxury van with other guests, complete with Wi-Fi, refreshments and enough legroom to lie flat.

An hour and a half into the drive, during which I took a short nap, we came upon Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple. The unconventional Buddhist temple captivates locals and foreigners alike, radiating an undeniable sense of peace and spirituality. The sun reflected on pieces of glass in the plaster of the all-white temple, making for breathtaking photos.

Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

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During the journey to Chiang Mai, the bus also stopped at several local shops, including JJ Antique Market, which sells elaborate scarves, old-world artefacts, copper and brass pieces, and unique elephant memorabilia. It was the perfect place to buy souvenirs, and I picked up an antique globe and a hand-embroidered scarf.

The picturesque landscapes and down-to-earth charm of Thailand never failed as we rode the final miles into Chiang Mai, where I could discover the similarities and differences of the two locations. I was travelling from the land of covered bamboo jungles to that of exposed rice paddies, from luxury tents to poolside villas, and from mingling with elephants to marvelling at water buffaloes.

Upper Rice Terrace Pavilion, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

The Upper Rice Terrace Pavilion is a hideaway at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, with great views of the rice paddies giving way to rolling green hills.

Day 5: Farming in Thailand’s rice fields

Breakfast in the Rice Fields, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

The Resort offers Breakfast in the Rice Fields, a one-of-a-kind private dining experience right in the middle of the tranquillity of the bright green rice fields.

Each week, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai offers an abundance of activities – two popular choices being rice planting and cooking classes. I chose rice planting since it’s so authentically Thai, and I can’t experience it just anywhere.

On the morning of my class, I made my way through the rice fields located directly behind the Resort, which can also be seen from the Rice Terrace Pavilions. After I put on a typical planting outfit of mahout denim, a local farmer taught me how to transplant sprouts into the mud. Thinning out the seedlings to no more than 4 inches (10 centimetres) apart, in rows 9 to 12 inches (22 to 30 centimetres) apart, produces the best results. I began to think I could call Thailand home one day.

Rice farming in Chiang Mai

The rice farmer and I didn’t speak the same language, so instead he showed me how to perform the laborious task.
Photography courtesy Lesley Murphy

In addition to spending a morning as a Thai rice farmer, I also tried my hand at Thai kickboxing in the Resort’s Muay Thai class. And not just my hand: The technique is called the “art of eight limbs,” using fists, feet, shins, knees and elbows.

After such an intense workout, recovery at the scenic pool and Spa with treatments influenced by ancient Thai ritual, such as the Royal Lanna Signature Treatment, was essential.

After that I was up for renting a bike from the Health Club to investigate Chiang Mai’s most exciting attractions, including Tiger Kingdom, the Monkey Center, Measa Elephant Camp and the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden.

Day 6: A bittersweet farewell

View from Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

An escape to Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai was the perfect way to explore another side of the country – away from the South’s beaches and into the North’s mountainous jungle.

After five days and countless adventures, I had fallen in love with the exotic bamboo jungles of the Golden Triangle. But although I felt I could stay forever, Southern Thailand was calling for me to leave the mountains and explore a contrasting side of this country, one with tropical beaches.

If you’re in the mood for a tropical escape after a journey to Four Seasons Golden Triangle and Four Seasons Chiang Mai, consider getting away to Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, located on an island off the coast of Southern Thailand.

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The Best Four Seasons Penthouses in the World

Posted on by Caitlyn Chase

Today, it’s no secret that a hotel’s best views are from the top. But before the elevator was invented in 1852, the top floors of many iconic hotel buildings were used as staff quarters. That changed when industrialist Elisha Otis unveiled the lift, and luxury hoteliers recognised that the most opulent accommodations deserve to be housed high in the sky.

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts Penthouse Suites are the ultimate showpieces of a property, packed with bespoke amenities, luxury furnishings, personalised service and, of course, show-stopping views. Whether it’s a 24-hour personal butler or a private fitness centre, Four Seasons has a Penthouse Suite in every corner of the globe to fit every need.

360-degree views of Manhattan in New York, New York


Ty Warner Penthouse

Accessed by its own elevator, this 4,300-square-foot (400-square-metre) suite offers incredible views of Manhattan from its floor-to-ceiling bay windows and wraparound, cantilevered glass balconies.

The crown jewel of Four Seasons Hotel New York, the Ty Warner Penthouse Suite sits 800 feet (244 metres) above street level atop the 52nd floor of the Hotel.

The penthouse, which took seven years and $50 million to complete, realises a highly anticipated collaboration between owner Ty Warner, designer Peter Marino and architect I.M. Pei. Every detail in the Ty Warner Suite is custom, from the fabrics woven with Thai silk and gold to the wood-panelled library walls and semi-precious stone surfaces.

Four Seasons Hotel New York

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The amenities are as impressive as the accommodations. Residents can enjoy all-inclusive services at the Hotel’s L.RAPHAEL Beauty Spa (including the whirlpool, sauna, and anti-ageing and holistic treatments) as well as all-inclusive dining at the Hotel’s The Garden restaurant and TY Bar. A Rolls-Royce chauffeur, 24-hour butler and personal fitness trainer provide customised service.

Penthouse life at new heights in New York, New York


Inside 30 Park Place

The interior of the penthouse has a dramatic silver-leaf rotunda ceiling, and plenty of natural light opens up the spacious design of white lacquer walls with marble trim.

Residents will enjoy round-the-clock penthouse living at 30 Park Place, Four Seasons Private Residences New York Downtown. Created jointly by Silverstein Properties and designer Robert A.M. Stern, 30 Park Place penthouses will be located in one of the most coveted spots in the city, at the corner of Church Street and Park Place in Tribeca.

Enjoy a private entrance and lobby of sleek black and white marble floors, large walk-in closets, and a polished onyx fireplace. Coffee on the terrace will taste even better with its amazing view of the New York City skyline and waterfronts.

Master bathrooms adorned with Bianco Dolomiti and Chinchilla Mink marble are accessorised with custom-designed vanities. Colorado White marble countertops and backsplash, Gaggenau appliances and solid white oak cabinets by Bilotta make up the state-of-the-art kitchen.

A peaceful retreat in Chiang Mai, Thailand


Four Seasons Chiang Mai Penthouse Suite

Beneath the vaulted ceilings, the expansive teak-floored, Penthouse holds exquisite authentically handmade silk-and-cotton-covered furnishings and handcrafted Thai objets d’art throughout.

Situated on the top two levels of the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, the Three-Bedroom Penthouse Resort Residence has a unique perspective on northern Thailand’s picturesque countryside.

Relax in one of the several sitting rooms, private pavilions or the Penthouse terrace to take in the serenity of old Siam, complete with a view of the rice paddy fields and Thanon Thong Chai mountain range.

Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

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Four Seasons Chiang Mai Penthouse Suite

The penthouse features dining and living areas and three master bedrooms, each with its own whirlpool.

Dine on expertly prepared cuisine, or hire a personal chef to use the in-suite kitchen to cook a Royal Thai Cuisine menu of authentic family-style dishes, including tom kha gai (a spicy chicken soup) and kaow niew mamung (mango sticky rice). The live-in mae baan (housekeeper) will also deliver a daily canapé service featuring dishes such as vegetarian samosas, crispy pork skins and fresh spring rolls.

The celebrity treatment in Los Angeles, California


Four Seasons Beverly Hills Penthouse Suite

An installed Crestron system allows guests to control the suite’s amenities—including curtains, television, music, shower and lighting—from a touch screen or mobile device.

The 14th-floor Penthouse Suite at Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel is the ideal place for a glamorous stay in LA. Relax on the spacious terrace to take in panoramic views of Los Angeles landmarks such as the Hollywood sign, the downtown skyline, Beverly Hills and Bel Air.

With a state-of-the-art kitchen and an open floor plan, the suite is the perfect place for a dinner party prepared by a private chef. The living area, fully equipped media room and furnished terrace provide plenty of party space. For relaxation afterwards, step into the gleaming full marble steam shower.

Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

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Penthouse residents may enlist on-site hair and makeup services and a personal stylist before going out, and then explore anywhere within a 3-mile radius of the Hotel with a complimentary house car.

A fashionable escape in Milan, Italy


Four Seasons Milano Penthouse Suite

The Penthouse Suite retains original details such as vaulted ceilings, columns and frescos.

Situated in the centre of Milan’s shopping district is Four Seasons Hotel Milano, including its desirable Penthouse Suite. A carefully restored 15th-century convent, this fifth-floor European hideaway blends rich Renaissance details with contemporary Italian design.

Recently refreshed furnishings with Fortuny fabrics and Frette linens add modern elements to classic elegance. The 420-square-foot (40-square-metre) Mediterranean-style rooftop terrace offers unmatched views of the classic red-tile roofs of central Milan and the marble spires of the Duomo.

Four Seasons Hotel Milano

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For a serene experience of Italy, sip coffee or an aperitif among the terrace’s olive trees, jasmine, boxwood, and lavender and rosemary hedges. The view of Milan’s Via Gesù, a street known for its Italian men’s fashion, may inspire a foray in that direction.

Hidden romance in Paris, France


Four Seasons Paris Penthouse Suite

Enjoy 360-degree views of the city, including the Eiffel Tower and the Pantheon, from the many terraces and balconies.

Designed to feel like an elegant Parisian residence, the Penthouse at Four Seasons Hotel George V is a show-stopper, with its own private garden and a conservatory whose walls are covered in Lelièvre luxury fabric.

The airy interior design of the 1,630-square-foot (150-square-metre) Penthouse emphasises the expansive floor plan. Travertine flooring and walls decorated with sycamore, Majilite and silk set off lavish furniture, like the Second Empire pedestal, and Baccarat crystal glassware.

Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris

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The master bedroom’s pastel blinds, lush white orchids, gold tones and ample natural light compose an irresistible sanctuary. The accompanying master bathroom has an infinity bathtub with jets and a chromotherapy system, so guests can choose just the right lighting for a relaxing soak after exploring the City of Light.

An Arabian oasis in Dubai, United Arab Emirates


Four Seasons Dubai Penthouse Suite

For dinner, hire a professional chef to prepare the Resort’s signature dish, salt-encrusted sea bass, in the private show kitchen.

In a city known for over-the-top opulence, the Penthouse Suite at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach won’t disappoint upon its debut. Feel like royalty at this one-of-a-kind, 5,000-square-foot (465-square-metre) top-floor Penthouse.

Sit on the large wraparound terrace to survey the magic of the city and the majestic views of the Arabian Gulf, palm-lined pools and white-sand beaches.

Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach

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Train in the private fitness centre, which will feature a crosstrainer, treadmill, stationary bike, weights set and other select equipment. Then relax in the private steam room and oversized tub, or hire a therapist for a rejuvenating massage in the private massage room.

The suite life near Circular Quay in Sydney, Australia


Four Seasons Sydney Presidential Suite

With views of Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Opera House, the Presidential Suite offers one of the best perspectives on the city down under.

To stay in a Sydney icon, move into the 34th-floor Presidential Suite atop the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney. Located near Sydney’s Circular Quay, it’s a spot that offers easy access to all the Harbour City has to offer.

The two-bedroom Suite has an open floor plan with a large sitting room to enjoy the views, a dining area that seats 10 and has an adjoining kitchen, and a room dedicated to luggage for overpackers.

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

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An in-suite espresso machine provides a convenient way to wake in the morning, and the extensive private bar is ideal for a nightcap. Enjoy access to the Executive Club, including a daily hot-and-cold breakfast buffet, lounge with views of Walsh Bay and the city, gourmet evening canapés, and more.

The “Palace in the Sky” in Beijing, China


Four Seasons Hotel Beijing Imperial Suite

Occupying the entire 27th floor, the Imperial Suite is inspired by the homes of cosmopolitan and sophisticated ambassadors, as well as the surrounding Beijing Diplomatic District’s international embassies and global companies.

The ultra-luxurious Imperial Suite at Four Seasons Hotel Beijing is one of the largest in the city, nearly 8,000 square feet (740 square metres). Reached directly by elevator to either the living room or the bedroom, it’s no wonder that it has been nicknamed the “Palace in the Sky.”

Marvel at the collection of art, artefacts and furnishings from around the world, a blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern design. Enjoy a master bedroom with its own living area, two additional bedrooms, library study, media room and staff kitchen.

Four Seasons Hotel Beijing

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Relax in the 2,700-square-foot (250-square-metre) outdoor living space, complete with a private fire pit and plunge pool. Or work out in the suite’s private fitness centre. Then explore the city with ease, with access to a daily chauffeur and round-trip airport transportation in a BMW 7 Series.

Orlando, Florida: The ultimate family vacation


Royal Suite

The Royal Suite offers a spacious living area, plus a pantry kitchen, office, dining room, media room and family room.

Host friends and family with the Ultimate Suites Experience top floor buyout at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort. The spacious accommodations, including a nine-bedroom Royal Suite and a four-bedroom Presidential Suite, make it ideal for families and large groups.

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Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort

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Have an unforgettable movie night in the luxe media room in the Royal Suite – complete with a big screen, soundproofing and central touchpad. The Butler Pantry can be fully stocked with movie-night snacks and indulgences.

Soak in the morning Florida sun over breakfast on the 1,000-square-foot (93-square-metre) terrace of the Royal Suite, or watch the nightly Magic Kingdom® Park fireworks display from the terrace’s incredible views. Enjoy the serenity of the Oasis adult-only pool or the action of the Explorer family pool in a private cabana with VIP service.

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8 Inspiring Travel Photos That Will Spark Your Wanderlust

Posted on by Leah Walker

Inspiration is often difficult to define, especially for professional photographers, whose eyes are trained to spot a great shot from a mile away. But photographer Matt Long maintains that inspiration can strike anyone at any time. “It’s about what means the most to you and capturing the essence of that moment,” he says.

We asked Long and seven other globetrotting photographers to share one unforgettable moment during their travels that they were compelled to capture on camera.

Splendour in the South Pacific

“To me, photography has always been about capturing those moments that not everyone gets to see,” says photographer Don Riddle. He believes that creating a great image takes planning, waiting and a bit of luck.

To capture the above photograph of the over-water bungalows at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, Riddle revisited the location at sunset on multiple occasions, with different results each time. “Some evenings were rainy, and some were just average. Finally, the sunset was spectacular. I kept clicking the shutter as the light got better and better, until finally it was dark.”

A sense of place in Beijing

Lake Palace in Beijing

Without focusing on any faces, photographer Robb Aaron Gordon manages to capture the spirit of the crowd at the Summer Palace in Beijing. Photography courtesy Robb Aaron Gordon

You can almost hear the movement of the locals and tourists bustling through the Summer Palace on this day in Beijing. “I wanted to show what a place feels like rather than just what it looks like,” says photographer Robb Aaron Gordon of this intriguing shot. “I like the idea of timelessness and infinity, which lends itself to this image. I didn’t want to focus on people, but did want to give the sense of a crowd.”

Light and life on the French Riviera

Boy playing on Paloma Beach in Cap Ferrat

Even after countless trips to the South of France, Martin Morrell still finds the French Riviera inspiring, often pinching himself when flying into Nice. This shot of Paloma Beach, featuring a guest appearance by a young boy, was one of many pleasant surprises during a recent visit. Photography courtesy Martin Morrell

During a recent visit to Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel, photographer Martin Morrell found himself enamoured with the light and the variety of landscape in the South of France. “While at a Riviera beach restaurant, I was watching the shadow of a tree on the pebble beach and water,” he remembers. “As I took the photo, the boy ran into the shot, which made for the perfect moment.”

Morrell has travelled the world, but there is something he finds especially inspiring about the South of France. “There are elements of the Riviera that are timeless, and [that] French reluctance to change is also part of the charm.”

Watching Bali come to life

Rice planters in Bali

Christian Horan joined rice planters in a muddy field to capture this morning moment in Bali. Photography courtesy Christian Horan

Photographer Christian Horan has learned that the more uncomfortable he is while shooting, the better the photo. Case in point: During a sunrise walk through Ubud, not far from Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, Horan slogged through mud to capture this shot of rice planters hard at work.

“The calm, peaceful energy of the town and rice fields inspired me,” Horan says. “I had to wade far out into the mud to get the photo. But finally, the reflection of the people on the water revealed itself.”

Uncovering hidden gems in India

Indian tomb portico

During a visit to the Taj Mahal, Rachelle Lucas was drawn to the more inconspicuous tombs surrounding the famous landmark. The simple design and warm colour of this portico is a direct contrast to the elaborate white marble of India’s renowned mausoleum. Photography courtesy Rachelle Lucas

Rachelle Lucas, creator of The Travel Bite, rarely follows the crowd when exploring a new destination. “The Taj Mahal is beautiful, and so iconic,” she says. “Everyone instantly recognises it.”

But what most intrigued Lucas on her visit, and likely went unnoticed by others, were the many tombs surrounding the landmark. “The doorways seemed to go on forever,” she says of the tourist-free portico captured here. “The feeling of infinity inspired me, along with the rustic orange colour.”

An unforgettable sunrise in the Serengeti

The Great Migration in the Serengeti

Witnessing the Serengeti’s Great Migration at sunrise from a hot-air balloon is one of Kirsten Alana’s most treasured travel memories. Photography courtesy Kirsten Alana

On her blog, Aviators and a Camera, Kirsten Alana beautifully chronicles her travels around the world. But it’s a trip to the Serengeti during the Great Migration that created this most inspiring memory.

During a sunrise hot-air balloon flight, Alana saw the ground below blanketed with zebras. “I wanted to come away with a photo that encapsulated the landscape, hot-air ballooning and the Great Migration,” she says. “I kept turning and finally found the shot with the golden colour of the sunrise. I’ll never forget that light.”

The wonder of Maui’s sinking sun

Woman in infinity pool at Four Seasons Maui

In Maui, Sean Nguyen snapped this photo of his wife, Jennifer, as she took in nature’s beauty. Just below the infinity pool, a sunset wedding ceremony was taking place. Photography courtesy Sean Nguyen

Sean and Jennifer Nguyen, the husband-and-wife photography duo behind the popular Instagram handle @Kobechanel, often find themselves drawn to natural settings during their travels. At Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, the couple found inspiration at sunset, citing the colours of the sky, the calm of the sea, the tranquillity of the infinity pool and the last light of day as reasons for capturing this view.

“With its vibrant colours, nature is eye-catching,” Sean says. “We especially like capturing unique perspectives on scenes that are well known to be beautiful images.”

Nature’s beauty in Budapest

Sunset in Budapest

Christmas markets brought photographer Matt Long to Budapest, where he captured this warm sunset over the cold Danube River from his room at Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest. Photography courtesy Matt Long

“I love natural landscapes. There’s just something about them,” says Matt Long, founder of popular travel blog Landlopers. Over time, Long has noticed how his eye and camera lens regularly gravitate towards the splendour of nature—even in an urban setting. “Landscapes show a simple beauty that’s not fabricated,” he says. “It captures the spirit of a place.”

From his room at Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest, Long took this shot of the sun setting over the Danube River. “It was my first sunset in the city. I remember feeling enchanted and mesmerised by what is really one of the most beautiful cities in the world.”

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Tips From Expert Travel Photographers

Posted on by Leah Walker

Globetrotting photographer Robb Gordon is often asked what kind of camera he owns. “Nobody asks a writer what kind of pen he uses,” says Gordon. “I don’t really care about the camera. I care about the image.” Photographer Martin Morrell echoes Gordon’s sentiment: “One doesn’t need an expensive camera in order to capture moments that please—[they] can be shot on a smartphone.”

Instagram’s global network of more than 400 million users proves every day that anyone with a smartphone can capture and share beautiful photographs from around the world.

To assist travellers during the Focus on Four Seasons Instagram contest, we called in some of the most talented travel photographers in the business to share tips and techniques for taking the perfect photo.

Take advantage of Mother Nature’s lighting at sunrise and sunset

Photographers live for what’s known as the golden hour—those short windows of time after sunrise or before sunset when the light gives anything you point your camera at a rich, golden glow.

“Whenever I can, I shoot during these times for the softest tones and most dramatic lighting,” says Dana Neibert, who is known for his environmental and landscape photography like the shot of Lanai, pictured above. “It’s so easy to make a nice image at those times.”


Photography tips and tricks: Shooting sunrise in Paris

The gilt morning light shining on Paris’ iconic Haussmannian buildings nearly steals the show from the Eiffel Tower in this photo, taken by Lesley Murphy from the Penthouse suite at Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris.

Photography courtesy Lesley Murphy

Lesley Murphy, photographer and travel blogger at The Road Les Traveled, agrees that lighting can make or break a photo. “I shot this during sunrise in Paris from the Penthouse at Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris,” she says. “Needless to say, it was worth the 6:00 am wake-up call. I wanted to make sure it had the best lighting.”

Murphy adds that a remote-control shutter release, tripod and wide-angle lens are helpful when shooting with a DSLR during this golden hour. “But even if you’re taking photos with an iPhone,” she says, “having something in the foreground will help bring out the various shades of the sunlight.”

Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris

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Photography tips and tricks: Shooting interiors at sunrise

At 7:00 am, the French Riviera light created the perfect shadow for Martin Morrell, instilling energy into this portrait of a classic French chair.

Photography courtesy Martin Morrell

Photographer Martin Morrell gives the early-morning French Riviera light (and resulting dramatic shadow) the credit for adding such energy to this photo captured inside Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel. “It’s the old adage of dawn and dusk for capturing great light and shadows, when the sun is lower and closer to the horizon.”

When shooting interiors, Morrell recommends including a human element or a small detail to bring the photo to life. “Being observant is key, as well as learning how to inject life into situations.”

Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel

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Utilise reflections to transform typical photos


Photography tips and tricks: Capturing sunset reflection on the water

The Palm Grove Pool at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai provided a brilliant reflection for Kirsten Alana’s snapshot of the Hawaiian sunset.

Photography courtesy Kirsten Alana

Photographer Kirsten Alana, the eye behind the travel photography blog Aviators and a Camera, also finds herself looking for different ways to capture “cliché” shots. “During sunset at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, most people went to the beach to capture the moment,” she says. “Instead, I headed to the Resort’s pool so that I could use its large reflective surface as a giant mirror, doubling the impact. The pool gave a water effect, but was smoother and reflective.”

To recreate this photo, Alana suggests focusing on and exposing for the reflection rather than the reflected object, since the light between the two can vary greatly.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

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Focus on what’s most important


Photography tips and tricks: How to focus

While photographing The Bar at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, Don Riddle uses a shallow depth of field to highlight a design detail while still conveying the mood of the entire place.

Photography courtesy Don Riddle

Photographer Don Riddle has spent the last 15 years travelling the globe with camera in hand. To add interest to otherwise simple snapshots, he suggests playing with depth of field. “This technique is useful to soften the other elements in the scene,” instructs Riddle, “and bring the focus to the subject you want the viewers to see.”

To achieve this effect, Riddle shoots in aperture priority mode or in manual mode with the aperture setting at the smallest f-number. This style of photo can also be achieved, although it’s more difficult, on a smartphone. “Focusing on something very close to the camera will cause the background to go out of focus. Touching the focus option on your smartphone will force the camera to focus on the subject in the foreground. The closer you are to the subject, the more out of focus the background will be.”

Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe

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See the world in 360 degrees


Photography tips and tricks: Shooting at all angles

Christian Horan was walking through the new Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá when he uncovered this dramatic angle on the Hotel’s spiral staircase.

Photography courtesy Christian Horan

As a cultural and international travel photographer, Christian Horan is always searching for perspectives that might be missed by the untrained eye. “A mentor taught me to always push myself to look further than the obvious angle,” he says. “I continually remind myself to look around when I’m discovering a new location or building.”

Horan captured this dramatic portrait of the spiral staircase at Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá from above, an angle that brings excitement to the shot. “Keep your mind open and eyes open wider,” he urges. “There’s always a new and different perspective to capturing a scene.”

Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota

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Photography tips and tricks: Shoot at all angles

While waiting in the lobby of Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest, photographer Matt Long looked up and discovered the Art Nouveau ceiling and chandelier.

Photography courtesy Matt Long

Photographer and founder of the blog Landlopers, Matt Long also urges us to explore the world from every angle: “You’d be surprised at the moments you’ll discover if you just take the time to truly look all around.”

It was while waiting for his partner in the lobby at Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest that Long glanced up to discover the glass ceiling and chandelier that would become the subjects of this stunning shot. “Don’t forget to look up and behind you. There really are some different perspectives to be found.”

Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest

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Photography tips and tricks: Aerial night shot of cityscape

Sean and Jennifer Nguyen captured Dubai’s city lights coming to life from the 124th floor observation deck of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Photography courtesy Sean and Jennifer Nguyen

Sean and Jennifer Nguyen are the husband-and-wife duo behind the popular Instagram handle Kobechanel, a photographic chronicle of the couple’s travels around the world. A quick scroll through their stream reveals that the Nguyens have a penchant for shooting above destinations using a wide-angle lens, as evidenced by this night-time view of Dubai.

“Taking in the vastness of this desert city is best seen from as high above as possible,” says Sean. “Especially at sunset, seeing the transition of the city from sun-baked to moonlit is remarkable.” To create a night-time aerial photo with this same sense of motion, the Nguyens recommend using a tripod and long exposures.

Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre

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Find details that bring local culture to life


Photography tips and techniques: Shooting details

Focusing on this artisan’s hand allowed Rachelle Lucas to capture the intricate batik technique that’s so cherished within Balinese culture.

Photography courtesy Rachelle Lucas

Capturing local culture beats at the heart of Rachelle Lucas’ culinary and travel blog, The Travel Bite. But as a photographer, she is always pushing herself to go beyond portraits of locals and shine a light on the details that speak to the subject’s unique way of life. “If you enjoy getting shots of people and culture,” she says, “get a different angle and physically move your body to make the photos more interesting.”

While touring the Batik Popiler II Factory in Bali’s Tohpati village, for example, Lucas focused on a woman’s hand rather than the larger picture to illustrate the skill required by the complex batik technique. “It’s a lengthy process of drawing, dying the fabric and then removing the wax. It made me appreciate the designs much more, and is something that a wide shot couldn’t capture.”

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

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Concierge

Travelling with Toddlers: A Guide

Posted on by Amanda Blakley

As a seasoned traveller, my wanderlust runs deep. Whether for backpacking or business travel, I have circled the globe numerous times. Now, as a mother of two, I am passionate about cultivating a love of travel in my children and placing importance on collecting experiences over things.

My husband and I have travelled extensively with our two sons, Atticus and Archer, and some of our most treasured memories have been made while on the road as a family. It hasn’t always been smooth sailing though, and along the way we’ve learned from experience what works and what doesn’t when travelling with toddlers. I hope that by sharing some of our family’s rules for the road, we can inspire your next getaway and arm you with the tools you need to make it a success.

Flying with toddlers 

Toddler travelling on airplane watching iPad

Flying with a toddler is easier when you have toys, electronics, snacks and entertainment on hand to distract from the monotony of the journey. Photography courtesy Thinkstock

Our rule of thumb for a day of travel is the “no rules” rule. The ultimate goal is to arrive at your destination alive and sane. With that in mind, our philosophy of “anything goes” works well. Normal rules about screen time, junk food and schedules go out the window when we travel. Whatever it takes—until we arrive at our final destination. Then it’s back to business.

Check into discounted fares for children under 2 on most airlines, and indicate special needs you may have for your young passenger, such as a specific meal or a front-row seat with space for your child’s bags. On many airlines, you can check a stroller at the gate, so moving around inside the airport before your flight is a breeze.

Build a toddler travel survival kit

Amanda Blakley always keeps art supplies in her toddler travel survival kit: Kids Coloring at Kids For All Seasons at Four Seasons Bahrain Bay

To make travelling with a young child easier, build a travel survival kit that includes art supplies, new toys and snacks—all designed to keep your kid content and entertained whether you’re on the plane, at a restaurant or in line at the children’s museum.

Every parent knows that there is no way to travel light when travelling with the young. These are some of the items we never leave home without when travelling with our tots.

A lint roller comes in handy for picking up crumbs left in your airline seat or at restaurants, and also takes care of glitter, Cheerios and any other droppings a toddler leaves in his or her wake. I fill a toddler-size backpack with special snacks (packets of dried seeds, dried fruit, cereal), a water bottle (flimsy airline cups are forever being knocked over), toys they haven’t seen in a while, simple crafts or colouring projects and a few new toys. When they get to the brink of a breakdown or just need a new distraction, we pull something else out of the bag.

For 21st-century parents, an iPad is a traveller’s lifesaver. Our son is allowed to use the iPad and watch movies on it when we travel. And since we restrict the use of screens in our household under normal circumstances, he savours every second of this time. On a recent flight to Los Angeles, Atticus watched Frozen for the first time (twice). He did not make a peep for the entire flight—except when he spilled my husband’s hot coffee in his lap when we got up to use the restroom. Note to self: Bring screw-top bottles for the adults as well.

Keep your itinerary light and loose

Boston Children’s Museum

You don’t have to be a hotel hermit just because you have toddlers with you on vacation. Instead, get out and enjoy family-friendly sites like the Boston Children’s Museum, parks, gardens and zoos. Photography courtesy Robert Benson courtesy Boston Children’s Museum

The fewer expectations you have for yourself and your travel companions, the more flexible you can be. Toddlers require routine as a general rule, so we try to keep things like naps, mealtime and bedtime similar to the way they’d be on an ordinary day at home. When we’re on the road, we usually plan only one activity per day; this might be an excursion, an activity or a museum visit. When fatigue sets in, breakdowns are inevitable—and this we like to avoid at all costs!

We recently spent a weekend in Boston. Pre-kids, we would have made reservations at multiple restaurants for each day, had lists of boutiques to check out and exhibits to visit. But because children (in general) are ticking time bombs, we consider their needs while planning our days (pat on back for proactive parenting). The first day we did a bit of walking and exploring after a large breakfast and then went back to the hotel for a nap. That afternoon we took the boys to the Boston Children’s Museum, which was a hit.

A stone’s throw from the museum is Sportello, a family-friendly Italian eatery whose approach to fresh fare will please even the pickiest eater. For dinner, we grabbed some bar seats along the large and winding counter (“Sportello” is Italian for counter service), and all four indulged in Chef Barbara Lynch’s menu of classics (I recommend the bolognese), which are crafted from only the most local and seasonal ingredients.

After that eventful day, we still had them bathed and in bed by 8:00 pm! It’s all about being realistic, which is sometimes a tough pill to swallow while on holiday.

Choose your destinations wisely

Kids for All Seasons at Four Seasons Dubai

Available at most Four Seasons hotels and resorts, the Kids for All Seasons programme offers entertainment, cultural activities and day camps for kids, allowing parents time for romantic and adventurous excursions.

Determine what type of holiday you want to have—beach, city, mountain, adventure or relaxation—and then find a property that offers fitting amenities and landscapes. We like to book a Four Seasons property that offers either a Kids for All Seasons programme or babysitting services—that way everyone in the family can enjoy the holiday. Resort holidays, with their self-contained environments and partitioned children’s areas, make for perfect vacations with toddlers. At most resorts you’ll find large, open, grassy areas where toddlers can practice crawling, walking or tumbling, and the pools feature a shallow area perfect for introducing your kids to water, like the kids’ pool at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.

On a recent visit to Mexico, the Concierge at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, México, arranged a babysitter (for a fee) so that my husband and I could slip out for a quick workout, followed by dinner and drinks in an up-and-coming neighbourhood. These little escapes—no matter how  brief—can make the difference after a long day spent entertaining the kids at the beach or poolside.

Finding toddler-friendly foods while travelling

Four Seasons Children’s Menu

For days when there is no negotiating with your little one to try something new, many restaurants at Four Seasons hotels and resorts offer children’s menus stocked with kid favourites like macaroni and cheese, as well as simplified local dishes like vegetables and steamed rice in Hong Kong or a cheese quesadilla in Punta Mita. Photography courtesy Brandon Barre

Eating on the road can pose interesting challenges. To coax our kids to try new things, the finger-food trick generally succeeds. From dumplings to duck, cutting it into small pieces and adding familiar dipping sauces (ketchup is a sure bet) can work wonders.

We also have a likeness tactic that can convince our kids to try something that may not appeal at first glance. A quesadilla in Punta Mita becomes a “Mexican pizza,” a ramen bowl in Tokyo becomes “Japanese spaghetti.” And in our estimation, it’s always worthwhile to choose restaurants that cater to the little ones as well as adults. In Hong Kong, for instance, The Lounge at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong offers a full children’s menu for those days when only chicken fingers will do.

Because dinner out with kids can sometimes be challenging, we love to have a nice family meal at lunchtime when our boys are in better spirits. Afterwards, we can easily wander back to the room for naptime, and if we’re lucky, my husband and I may even get an hour to ourselves for reading on the patio.

Discovering necessities while on holiday

Children’s Amenities at Four Seasons Hangzhou

Four Seasons destinations strive to offer superior services for parents and their little entourage. Snacks, diapers, baby-proofing and cribs are available to make your stay more comfortable.

Pack a little less by ensuring you have toddler necessities at your destination upon arrival. Many cities have a rental and delivery service for things like high chairs, strollers, toys and even diapers. Baby’s Away services 27 U.S. states, Baby Vallarta is best for the Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita area of Mexico, and Renting for Rascals is our go-to for the U.K.

Or call ahead to your Four Seasons hotel or resort to inquire what kid-friendly amenities they might offer. We were surprised to discover that our room at Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach had been childproofed (padded furniture corners and all) prior to our check-in. It was equipped not only with a crib, but also with extra diapers and wipes, bath toys, a miniature robe and even a Diaper Genie. All of these little details meant we could get to the task at hand (relaxation) sooner!

Night-time with toddlers on vacation

Four Seasons Guest - Young Girl, Bedtime

Bedtime is a breeze when children are comfortable and calm. Keep your toddler’s normal bedtime routine, coupled with the children’s amenities at the hotel, and you’ll wake up to one happy toddler in the morning.

Like most new parents, we obsessed over the bedtime routine with our firstborn. We were militant about the timing of a nightly bath, books and bed. As a result of this—or, perhaps, luck—we could put our toddlers to bed anywhere. Now we always bring our favourite books from home, and a special car or truck often makes its way into the bed as well. Consistency is key.

Of course it never hurts to tucker them out in the sand at places like Four Seasons Resort Nevis or on the slopes at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler during the day so they can barely muster an excuse when the time comes to head off to dreamland.

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