Just one photograph of the W Retreat & Spa Bali speaks a thousand words. It is a luxurious resort in the chic Seminyak enclave on the Island of the Gods, replete with all of the creature comforts associated with high-end travel. What is not as obvious at first glance, though, is a dedication to the arts that the hotel shares with its current and potential guests. The interior design, for which AB Concept, a leading Asian design and architectural studio, received the 2011 International Hotel and Property Best Design award for its contribution to the groundbreaking, contemporary-meets-traditional-Balinese motif, is replete with the island’s culture and mysticism. And the hotel’s musical entertainment is an artistic creation in and of itself. W Hotels music director Michaelangelo L’Acqua has discovered as much as he could about Balinese culture, both the modern, cutting-edge and the traditional side, to provide an authentic musical voice for the retreat. Nor has fashion been forgotten: W Hotels recently launched the Global Glam collection of exclusive designer fashion and accessories, partnering with creatives the likes of Rebecca Minkoff and Dannijo. For more information, visit www.whotels.com
