Kiwi Curated
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
by Kim BudziakEscapes are often associated with faraway beaches and countryside cabins, but big cities have their own relax-and-recharge methodology. Check out 12 hotels that define “urban oasis.”
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
Sitting pretty in Buenos Aires’ design centre just minutes away from popular spots—La Boca, San Telmo and Plaza de Mayo—the Mine Hotel is energetic and earthy. The boutique spot exudes a calming bohemian charm throughout its 20 rooms, comfortable shared spaces and backyard-style pool area, making it an ideal finish to culture-soaked days spent in trendy Palermo Soho.
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
Somewhere between gazing at Frank Gehry’s “Golden Fish” and taking in the brilliance of Gaudí on the Paseo do Gracia, you’ll find need for a siesta. Find respite behind an artistic façade of more than 1,000 ceramic pieces that make up the exterior of the Ohla Eixample. Relax in a Scandinavian-style suite, take in views of the Catalan capital from your own private terrace or get a full panorama from the rooftop cocktail bar (we hear gin and tonic is a Barcelona favourite).
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
You’ll truly be among the buzz of Vancouver when you take up residence near 250,000 honey bees at the Fairmont Waterfront. The hotel’s sustainable Wild for Bees program extends beyond environmental benefits into the cocktails, desserts and beers of hotel guests (try the Stinger Lager). Mingle with the charming residents in the 2,100-square-foot rooftop garden while taking in skyline and water views before retiring to your plush suite with North Shore mountain views.
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
Weave through cultural tradition and modern commerce in Marrakech’s medina, the maze-like heart of the city brimming with spices, henna, perfume, markets and mosques, before retiring to your personal villa oasis at the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech. Walk the garden lawns, take a dip in the cooling pools, or indulge in holistic therapies and treatments at the spa. Dining al fresco at the Pool Garden is a must.
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
High above Barcelona without being removed from it, Hotel Miramar is more modern-day palace than nearby perch. Views of the city skyline and Mediterranean are an ideal end-of-day treat for intrepid travellers, not to mention the private patios complete with Jacuzzi (upon request) which have been added on since the building was built for the 1929 World Fair. Be sure to book a treatment cabin at The Spa by L’Occitane, where a generous terrace offers splendid sea views.
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
Take on boutique shopping in Zurich one day and explore the incredible natural surroundings that sprawl out from Uetliberg mountain the next; the Atlantis by Giardino ensures both. The 1960s landmark that lured the likes of Steve McQueen and Freddie Mercury years ago now stuns guests with Michelin Star-dinners, custom-made furnishings from Molteni, and a large outdoor pool to soak away any lingering city stress.
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
Cannes is famous for entertainment and opulence, but no matter how far you push the envelope, you still need somewhere to lay your head. Opposite Festival Hall and adjacent to the Croisette, Hôtel Majestic Barrière Cannes is an Art Deco gem that exudes confidence—perfect for card shark extroverts and those looking to gain passage on a beachside yacht. Quieter moments can easily be found on rooftop patios with tasteful plunge pools, watching Mediterranean waves roll ashore.
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
Press pause 61-stories above Bangkok, over a martini, of course. Banyan Tree Bangkok’s rooftop restaurant is aptly named Vertigo, and its disarming city views leave no question as to why. The city seems far quieter and much more like a lurid backdrop from the confines of your well-equipped room. Below, the business district bustles and shoppers rush through the boutiques of Silom Road. Take part, or take heart in knowing you can just watch the sun set over the Chao Phraya River instead.
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
Culture, history, and the wild thrive in Berlin. One of the city’s most famous landmarks is the historic zoo just a stone’s throw from Hotel Zoo Berlin. Within the walls of the hotel, a pack of travellers, trendsetters and artists exhibit an appreciation for the invigorating designs of this modern hotel. Be prepared to feel small and in awe of the towering ceilings and exotic decor in addition to well-rested; the modern rooms spare no creature comforts.
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
Take in the bustle of Buenos Aires without retiring amongst the crowds. Hub Porteño has just 11 suites and beautiful boutique detailing to indulge any desire for privacy. Each room easily reflects the art, style and culture of the city through antique detailing and modern amenities. Spend the day wandering through the prestigious Recoleta district before relaxing on the terrace with a glass of wine or soaking away the day in your private Jacuzzi.
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
Experience incredible al fresco dining and fresh local vegetables just 20 minutes from downtown Chiang Mai. North Hill City Resort feels as though a verdant crop of land were moved by helicopter and dropped at the end of a lively metropolis. Here, every detail is a nod to nature:scenic patios, rainfall showers, garden space, and even an outdoor amphitheater. Sign up for a farm-to-table cooking class or take in a round at the North Hill Golf Club.
Discover an Oasis in the Big City
Emerge from Hyde Park tube station into the buzz of central London. Here, Parliament, the Tate Museums and the Whispering Gallery in St. Paul’s Cathedral have their own rich allure, but COMO The Halkin gives them a run for their money. Airy Georgian decor and a stately sort of minimalism converge in the perfected suites. You’ll also find satisfying combinations of the food variety at Ametsa with Arzak Instruction, where earthy flavours get a dreamy twist.
Sitting pretty in Buenos Aires’ design centre just minutes away from popular spots—La Boca, San Telmo and Plaza de Mayo—the Mine Hotel is energetic and earthy. The boutique spot exudes a calming bohemian charm throughout its 20 rooms, comfortable shared spaces and backyard-style pool area, making it an ideal finish to culture-soaked days spent in trendy Palermo Soho.
Somewhere between gazing at Frank Gehry’s “Golden Fish” and taking in the brilliance of Gaudí on the Paseo do Gracia, you’ll find need for a siesta. Find respite behind an artistic façade of more than 1,000 ceramic pieces that make up the exterior of the Ohla Eixample. Relax in a Scandinavian-style suite, take in views of the Catalan capital from your own private terrace or get a full panorama from the rooftop cocktail bar (we hear gin and tonic is a Barcelona favourite).
You’ll truly be among the buzz of Vancouver when you take up residence near 250,000 honey bees at the Fairmont Waterfront. The hotel’s sustainable Wild for Bees program extends beyond environmental benefits into the cocktails, desserts and beers of hotel guests (try the Stinger Lager). Mingle with the charming residents in the 2,100-square-foot rooftop garden while taking in skyline and water views before retiring to your plush suite with North Shore mountain views.
Weave through cultural tradition and modern commerce in Marrakech’s medina, the maze-like heart of the city brimming with spices, henna, perfume, markets and mosques, before retiring to your personal villa oasis at the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech. Walk the garden lawns, take a dip in the cooling pools, or indulge in holistic therapies and treatments at the spa. Dining al fresco at the Pool Garden is a must.
High above Barcelona without being removed from it, Hotel Miramar is more modern-day palace than nearby perch. Views of the city skyline and Mediterranean are an ideal end-of-day treat for intrepid travellers, not to mention the private patios complete with Jacuzzi (upon request) which have been added on since the building was built for the 1929 World Fair. Be sure to book a treatment cabin at The Spa by L’Occitane, where a generous terrace offers splendid sea views.
Take on boutique shopping in Zurich one day and explore the incredible natural surroundings that sprawl out from Uetliberg mountain the next; the Atlantis by Giardino ensures both. The 1960s landmark that lured the likes of Steve McQueen and Freddie Mercury years ago now stuns guests with Michelin Star-dinners, custom-made furnishings from Molteni, and a large outdoor pool to soak away any lingering city stress.
Cannes is famous for entertainment and opulence, but no matter how far you push the envelope, you still need somewhere to lay your head. Opposite Festival Hall and adjacent to the Croisette, Hôtel Majestic Barrière Cannes is an Art Deco gem that exudes confidence—perfect for card shark extroverts and those looking to gain passage on a beachside yacht. Quieter moments can easily be found on rooftop patios with tasteful plunge pools, watching Mediterranean waves roll ashore.
Press pause 61-stories above Bangkok, over a martini, of course. Banyan Tree Bangkok’s rooftop restaurant is aptly named Vertigo, and its disarming city views leave no question as to why. The city seems far quieter and much more like a lurid backdrop from the confines of your well-equipped room. Below, the business district bustles and shoppers rush through the boutiques of Silom Road. Take part, or take heart in knowing you can just watch the sun set over the Chao Phraya River instead.
Culture, history, and the wild thrive in Berlin. One of the city’s most famous landmarks is the historic zoo just a stone’s throw from Hotel Zoo Berlin. Within the walls of the hotel, a pack of travellers, trendsetters and artists exhibit an appreciation for the invigorating designs of this modern hotel. Be prepared to feel small and in awe of the towering ceilings and exotic decor in addition to well-rested; the modern rooms spare no creature comforts.
Take in the bustle of Buenos Aires without retiring amongst the crowds. Hub Porteño has just 11 suites and beautiful boutique detailing to indulge any desire for privacy. Each room easily reflects the art, style and culture of the city through antique detailing and modern amenities. Spend the day wandering through the prestigious Recoleta district before relaxing on the terrace with a glass of wine or soaking away the day in your private Jacuzzi.
Experience incredible al fresco dining and fresh local vegetables just 20 minutes from downtown Chiang Mai. North Hill City Resort feels as though a verdant crop of land were moved by helicopter and dropped at the end of a lively metropolis. Here, every detail is a nod to nature:scenic patios, rainfall showers, garden space, and even an outdoor amphitheater. Sign up for a farm-to-table cooking class or take in a round at the North Hill Golf Club.
Emerge from Hyde Park tube station into the buzz of central London. Here, Parliament, the Tate Museums and the Whispering Gallery in St. Paul’s Cathedral have their own rich allure, but COMO The Halkin gives them a run for their money. Airy Georgian decor and a stately sort of minimalism converge in the perfected suites. You’ll also find satisfying combinations of the food variety at Ametsa with Arzak Instruction, where earthy flavours get a dreamy twist.