Cosy minimalism in the Brecon Beacons
The area "is a nature-enthusiast's paradise, with endless hill and valley ranges and forests rich in diverse trees and foliage", adds Hampson. But if you're more of an indoor type, the pods also feature underfloor heating and a wood-burning stove. You'll enjoy it in any season, but a cold, crisp autumn night feels like the perfect time to go, whether you're looking to go hiking or finally finish reading that book.
Blend in with nature
The pods at the Lindis in the pristine Ahuriri Valley in New Zealand offer such an immersive glamping experience that it's almost as though they're not even there. The pods are made with reflective one-way glass, meaning they merge into and reflect the landscape while allowing panoramic views of the vast surrounding fields and snowy mountain tops. "The pods are the epitome of rustic chic, with an emphasis on the chic," says Julie Delahaye in the Daily Mirror. They are decked out with luxury bedding, elegant wooden interiors and an en-suite bathroom.
Each pod comes with a private deck and a hot tub and the Lindis, the main hotel, is just a short walk away. It hosts an on-site restaurant with a delectable menu and a fully stocked bar.
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE
Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
It's ideal if you're concerned about your carbon footprint, too. "The pods boast some impressive eco-friendly credentials, such as geothermal heat pumps, rainwater harvesting systems and state of the art insulation," says Delahaye.
A desert oasis
They overlook burnt orange sand dunes and clear skies that will make you feel entirely off the grid. You won't be, though, as the complex boasts high-speed internet and cable television as well as an indoor pool and gym.
Al Badayer Oasis offers "customised desert experiences featuring dune bashing, buggies, quad biking, horse riding, desert safaris and camel tours," says Ahmed. Falcon shows and archery games, meanwhile, afford a "true taste of Emirati culture".
-
Barclays begins paying up to £100 compensation to customers after banking outageBarclays will pay up to £7.5 million in compensation to customers after its banking services were disrupted by an IT outage
-
Review: Shangri-La Paris – an ode to the world’s best foodNatasha Langan enjoys fine French and Chinese cuisine at the Shangri-La Paris
