Elite Traveler July-August 2017

Presidential Villa ROYAL BEGONIA, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT, SANYA, CHINA The vast 7,180 sq ft Presidential Villa is just footsteps from the shores of the South China Sea and is set among a lush private garden. The interiors combine European elegance with ornate Chinese detail, incorporating luxurious amenities from the Bose entertainment system to the 400-thread count bed linens and rainforest shower. A dining room that can accommodate up to 10 people and an ocean-view private pool further add to the three-bedroom suite’s appeal. From$10,050 per night, contact luxurycollection. royalbegonia@luxurycollection.com, +86 898 388 599 99, starwoodhotels.com

Beaches Whether you're exploring a seaside city or secluded in a peaceful retreat, these are the perfect spaces for relaxation as you while away your days by the shore

Beach House QUALIA, HAMILTON ISLAND, AUSTRALIA In the Whitsundays, an archipelago of 74 islands off the north-east coast of Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef teems with marine life, the sand is powder white and rainforest cloaks the land. Qualia (which means 'a collection of deeper sensory experiences' in Latin) sits on the northern shores of Hamilton Island. On the northern tip, the two- bedroom Beach House provides exceptional privacy, with ocean views that can be savored from the sun deck and 12-meter infinity-edge pool that runs the length of the entertainment and 10-person dining space. The pavilion-style house opens out to the pool, with an elegant feel created by the clever use of natural tones, timber, stone and glass. From $3,330 per night, contact guestservices@ qualia.com.au, +61 749 489 222, qualia.com.au

Photos Backlight Studios, Don Riddle