In the hopes of inspiring resilience and embracing the spirit of optimism, leading luxury hotel group COMO has revealed a host of adventures for 2021 in celebration of its 30th anniversiary. From swimming with whale sharks in the Maldives to boxing retreats in Bali, there is something for every type of traveller in every destiantion imaginable.
Maldives
Swim with Whale Sharks
After being indoors for much of the year, immersion in nature is set to be a key influence when booking post-lockdown escapes. As the only resort in the Thaa Atoll, COMO Maalifushi is surrounded by a thriving house reef. Under the waves, explore a circus of branching corals, parrot fish and octopus, go shark spotting and learn the secrets of the underwater world with the marine biologist. Rub shoulders with the largest fish in the sea on a Whale Shark Night Snorkel – marvel at the gentle giants from the boat or join them under the waves for an unforgettable snorkelling experience.
Light Tackle and Fly-Fishing
Surrounded by calm lagoons, uninhabited islands and pristine reefs, COMO Maalifushi boasts the ideal conditions for fishing adventures. Light tackle on the inner atoll to pick up titan triggerfish, giant trevally and red snapper, or for adventurous travellers, fish the whole atoll of over 150km2, catching bonefish, yellow marlin, sailfish, mahi mahi and yellowfin tuna from aboard COMO Maalifushi’s Hewes Redfisher. In accordance with COMO’s conservation policy, the resort practices a strict ‘catch and release’ methods.
Thailand
Charter a Yacht in Phuket
Head to Phuket’s peaceful east coast, where COMO Point Yamu sits proudly on the tip of Cape Yamu. Privacy and exclusive experiences will take precedence in 2021, and the luxury hotel offers ocean-lovers the chance to charter their own private boat – from a traditional long-tail to a 76ft motor yacht – to explore the surrounding seascape. Head to the culture-rich Phang Nga Bay, where the ‘Sea Gypsies’ reside in the bay’s northern reaches, rock paintings date back thousands of years, and there’s native wildlife, intriguing caves and towering limestone formations to explore.
Caribbean
Be Active in the Turks & Caicos
With the increase in demand for seclusion and the heightened desire for a healthy escape, the ‘Be Active’ retreat on the private island of Parrot Cay offers the perfect remedy. ‘Be Active’ combines COMO Shambhala’s award-winning wellness offerings, such as yoga, Pilates, mediation and signature body therapies, with island activities like cycling and snorkelling. COMO Parrot Cay also offers ventures that promote sustainability by immersing guests in the local environment, from planting banana trees in the island plantation, to kayaking the mangroves in search of local wildlife.
Bali
Boxing Retreat in Bali
This October, boxing aficionados should head to COMO Uma Canggu – a laidback luxury bolthole and surfer’s paradise – where professional boxers, Darren Barker and Ryan Pickard, are leading a week-long retreat. Don a pair of gloves and dive into a week of improving self-defence, increasing agility and learning the basics of fitness nutrition. The retreat is fuelled by nutritious COMO Shambhala Cuisine, designed to increase concentration and energy. To recover, relax at the beach or indulge in a signature COMO Shambhala Massage at the whitewashed COMO Shambhala Retreat.
Australia
Embrace Perth’s Arts and Culture
In Perth, 2021 kicks-off with a calendar of arts festivals and unique exhibitions. Stay at COMO The Treasury, which occupies a group of striking 19th century government buildings in the very heart of the vibrant city. Dine at the best restaurants in Perth, including world-class Wildflower, before diving into a series of cultural events. Fringe World Festival – the third largest in the world – showcases diverse performances in comedy, music and the arts from Western Australia and beyond, while the new Boola Bardip in the Western Australian Museum, exhibits the state’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Worldwide
Wellness for Women
In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8th 2021, the experts at COMO Shambhala have crafted a two-hour wellness package designed to quickly and effectively revive mind, body and spirit. Available to book across the COMO portfolio, the bespoke package includes a 30-minute meditation session to relax the mind – teaching relaxation techniques that can be practiced long after heading home – a signature COMO Shambhala massage, and a private yoga session with one-to-one instruction. Wellness for Women is available to book for a friend with the new COMO E-Gift Vouchers.