Half Moon Resort’s general manager Sandro Fabris — a post he accepted more than a year ago — has been around the world and back, through work – an over 20-year experience managing the best of best hotels in some the world’s most storied destinations – and personal pursuits, taking note of the hospitality brands that flawlessly continue to redefine and perfect the meaning of ‘luxury’. Quelle surprise, his short list begins with the manicured radius of Rose Hall…

Half Moon Resort

Rose Hall, Jamaica

Half Moon is an overall wonderful experience that rejuvenates the soul. Having been around for over 60 years, it is one of the youngest hotels I’ve worked at, but there is a rich heritage and history that tells a story about the warmth and hearts of people. As a privately owned hotel, it comes with a personalised touch, which is truly authentic in its delivery. Additionally, it is not just a hotel, but a destination that sets the stage for remarkable experiences.

Belmond Reid’s Palace

Madeira, Portugal

This beauty was established in the late 1800s. Madeira is a fantastic island with a mild climate – never too hot, never too cold; very sub-tropical but still European. There, you’ll find some fantastic cuisine and I strongly recommend the Espetada, a roasted meat skewer, seasoned with sea salt and garlic. Madeira also has the best-aged wines in the world. I once had wine bottled in 1765. In the market, you can get bottles of 120-and 130-year-old wines.

Eagle Island Camp

Okavango Delta, Botswana

A safari in Africa usually takes you by car on a busy road. This hotel is in the middle of the Okavango Delta, adjacent to the Kalahari Desert. Here, the safari is done by boat or helicopter, a very unique experience. I also recommend it as one of the most relaxing places in the world where you are experiencing the wildlife all around you.

Victoria Falls Hotel

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

This is a typical colonial hotel – when you’re there, it’s like going back 100 years in time. It appeals to the imagination and you feel as if you are participating in the experience the way guests did a century ago. Plus, you are in the middle of Africa, and from this hotel you can walk to the famous Victoria Falls. One of the most stunning sights is of the mist coming up from the falls while having your afternoon tea on the deck.

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort & Spa

Bazaruto, Mozambique

Bazaruto is the largest island of the Archipelago of islands, just south-east of the Save River in Mozambique. It is accessible by private plane. Once you arrive at Anantara, I recommend having a jeep take you to the sand dunes, where you are on the sand, alone but with access to a buffet of food selections. There, you are surrounded by clear, turquoise and shallow water. It is a very natural setting, surrounded by oceanic creatures such as starfish. Here, you are one-on-one with nature.

Royal Scotsman Train

Scotland, United Kingdom

This is like cruising, but on the railway. It is a slow-moving and small train of about 40 or 50 people and you’re friends with everyone by the end of your trip, possibly dancing together in Aberdeen. This experience offers a very social environment and every evening, someone comes by to share unique tidbits of Scottish culture, such as how to wear a kilt.

Gritti Palace

Venice, Italy

Located on the Canal Grande running alongside the Santa Maria delle Grazie, this is the most elegant hotel in downtown Venice. I recommend dining by the canal when you’re there. It’s best for a winter holiday, when it’s not crowded and you’re offered stunning wintery views across the Canal Grande.

Hotel Cipriani

Isola della Giudecca, Venice

This hotel is a real resort in Venice. If you’re taking a trip in the summer, it’s the best one to stay at. It is the only place where you sleep overlooking San Marco Square, the centre of Venice. Here you are in your own world, even though you’re in the midst of the hustle and bustle. The location is unbeatable and it offers a truly authentic Venetian experience.

Belmond Sanctuary Lodge & the Hiram Bingham Train

Machu Picchu, Peru

By far, the best way to get to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge is by the Hiram Bingham Train, where you’re offered stunning views of the mountains and valleys in Peru. The lodge is the only hotel located close to the ancient Machu Picchu, an Inca citadel. It is a magical spot, steeped in wonder and culture, and definitely worth exploring.

Copacabana Palace

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro became popular as a result of the Copacabana Palace, a beautiful five-star hotel. This hotel put the location on the map and has been welcoming the famous for nearly 100 years. If you’re interested in Brazil, and experiencing an iconic resort, I recommend this hotel, which is not only special, but offers fantastic cuisine.