In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s harder than ever to step back and take a breather, to enjoy truly private moments making memories with family and friends – or simply by oneself. Mandarin Oriental hotels, however, provide the perfect refuge in which to escape, relax and let the rest of the world fall away, whether in a secluded Caribbean paradise or at the heart of a bustling metropolis. And this summer, with their Fantastic Offer extending Centurion Cardmembers a complimentary night’s stay at properties across the globe, Mandarin Oriental is inviting you to spend even more time on the things, and with the people, that matter most.

We look at five destinations made for doing just that.

Geneva

Home to several prestigious multinational organisations, as well as a wealth of luxury shopping and natural riches, from the towering Alps to its namesake lake, Geneva is a stately city that knows how to play gracious host to the global elite – and Mandarin Oriental makes them feel right at home. Mandarin Oriental, Geneva charms on every level, from its idyllic yet central location along the River Rhône, to its 178 elegant rooms (all featuring marble bathrooms), two gourmet restaurants and holistic spa with treatment rooms overlooking the river. Guests hoping to enjoy their extra time here in utmost privacy should look to the Royal Penthouse – a three-bedroom haven of serenity and one of Geneva’s most exclusive hotel suites.

Marrakech

The Ochre City of Morocco has held a mystic allure for travellers across the centuries, a place where Berber, Arab and French cultures collide in a heady cloud of colours, fragrances, flavours and melodies. It’s enough to make the head spin, so steady yourself at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech, an oasis of tranquillity just a 10-minute drive from the intoxicating Medina. With the snow-capped Atlas Mountains providing dramatic effect in the distance, twenty hectares of verdant gardens and refreshing pools beckon for swimming, sunbathing, strolling and al fresco dining. However, if you’d rather not see another soul, you don’t have to: all of the hotel’s private villas and sumptuous suites have their own pool and outdoor spaces. The Infinity Pool Suite, tucked into the spa’s hushed surrounds and offering its own private garden, hammam and lap pool, is an exceptional choice for some serious R&R.

Milan

Fashion, food, history and heritage – the Italian capital of couture has it all, and you can immerse yourself in the city’s illustrious past without missing a minute of its present at Mandarin Oriental, Milan. The hotel’s edifice, a series of four beautiful 18th-century buildings on central via Andegari, forges a connection with Milanese history, while its world-class offerings – such as acclaimed cuisine from chef Antonio Guida and a state-of-the-art, 900sq m spa – plant its feet firmly in the here and now. The stylishly appointed guest rooms blend Italian design and Eastern influences; check into the Terrace Suite for true indoor-outdoor living, with a spacious terrace running the entire length of the suite. Don’t worry, it’s soundproofed to ensure both peace and discretion.

Bangkok

A place where golden temples of spirituality mingle with gleaming towers of commerce, where shiny new mega-malls bump up against centuries-old homes, where the mind-bending flavours of night-market stalls rival those of white-tablecloth restaurants – Bangkok is an ever-changing city full of fascinating contradictions. One constant for the past 146 years, however, has been the faithful luxury of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. Boasting a coveted location along the Chao Phraya River, the hotel is renowned for its impeccable service, style and commitment to excellence that extends from the private butler service to the award-winning spa and the wide-ranging gourmet dining options, including two-Michelin-star Le Normandie by Alain Roux. If you think your complimentary day may turn into another two or three, consider booking the Junior Terrace Suite; with its private furnished terrace and open floor plan, it’s perfect for longer stays in the Thai capital.

Canouan

Not particularly well known outside of the farmers and fishers who live here and the yachting set who come to call, this tiny emerald-green island is an unsung jewel of the southern Caribbean, made all the more lustrous for the arrival of Mandarin Oriental, Canouan. The resort has everything a castaway could want, and more, from a sumptuous spa to an array of fine dining restaurants, a watersports centre, a Fazio-designed championship golf course, an infinity pool overlooking the sea, and of course, its own private runway. Claim one of the 26 suites and 13 villas – ocean views guaranteed – and take a stroll along the fine white sands of the resort’s very own beach. It won’t be long before you start thinking you have this island all to yourself.

Spend even more time on the things, and with the people, that matter most with a complimentary night from Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.

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