Celebrating Our Partners: Congratulations to the 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award Winners
We’re delighted to celebrate an outstanding year for our partners, with several properties and destinations across the Travel Promoters portfolio recognised in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
We’re delighted to celebrate an outstanding year for our partners, with several properties and destinations across the Travel Promoters portfolio recognised in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
These internationally respected awards are voted for by readers, recognising the hotels, resorts and travel experiences that leave a lasting impression. This year, our partners have been recognised across Africa, from the wildlife-rich plains of Southern and East Africa to South Africa’s beautiful coastline and the turquoise waters of Zanzibar.
We couldn’t be prouder to see so many of the exceptional properties we represent receiving this recognition. Congratulations to all our partners and the teams behind these remarkable guest experiences.
Celebrating our 2026 award winners:
Sirikoi – Kenya
Sirikoi Lodge has once again earned a place among the Top 20 Resorts in Central and East Africa, ranking an impressive 10th in the 2026 awards.
Set within Kenya’s Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Sirikoi offers an intimate and luxurious safari experience, combining elegant accommodation, exceptional wildlife encounters and a strong connection to conservation. Its beautiful setting and thoughtful, personal hospitality make it a very special place to stay.
Congratulations to the Sirikoi team on another fantastic achievement.
The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa – South Africa
In Plettenberg Bay, The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa has been recognised in the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, securing the No. 15 position in South Africa.
This characterful boutique hotel brings together historic charm and contemporary luxury in one of the Garden Route’s most sought-after coastal destinations. With beautifully designed suites, a relaxing spa and the beach just moments away, it offers guests an inviting base from which to enjoy Plettenberg Bay.
Congratulations to the team on this well-deserved recognition.
Madikwe Safari Lodge – South Africa
Located in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, Madikwe Safari Lodge has also received recognition in the Readers’ Choice Awards.
With its spectacular bushveld setting, exceptional wildlife and three distinct camps offering different styles of safari, the lodge provides an experience that balances adventure with comfort and warm hospitality. Expert guiding and a strong sense of place make it a memorable choice for couples, families and safari enthusiasts alike.
Congratulations to the entire Madikwe Safari Lodge team on this achievement.
Bushtops Safari Camps - Tanzania & Kenya
Our partners at Bushtops have plenty to celebrate, with all three of their luxury safari camps recognised in Condé Nast Traveler’s Central and East Africa rankings. All three made the Top 15, with two securing places in the Top 10.
Roving Bushtops – Ranked 6th, this mobile luxury safari camp moves with the seasons across Tanzania’s Serengeti, bringing exceptional comfort and service to ever-changing wilderness locations.
Serengeti Bushtops – Ranked 7th, this permanent luxury tented camp combines outstanding wildlife viewing with spacious suites, private hot tubs, fine dining and personalised service.
Mara Bushtops – Ranked 14th, this exclusive camp in Kenya’s Isaaten Conservancy offers luxurious tented suites, private hot tubs and access to the remarkable wildlife of the greater Maasai Mara ecosystem.
The results are a wonderful reflection of the experiences offered across all three camps, as well as the dedicated teams who make each guest’s stay so memorable.
Three camps, three awards and an outstanding result. Congratulations to everyone at Bushtops!
Kaelo Destinations – Botswana & Mozambique
Kaelo Destinations also enjoyed an exceptional year, with three recognitions across its collection of African destinations: Mashatu Game Reserve, Euphorbia Mashatu and Pambele Beach House.
In Botswana’s Northern Tuli region, Mashatu offers expansive wilderness, remarkable wildlife and immersive safari experiences. Its flagship lodge, Euphorbia Mashatu, brings a distinctive architectural approach to luxury, with just eight private villas accommodating up to 16 guests.
Over in Mozambique, Pambele Beach House offers an exclusive-use coastal retreat overlooking the Bazaruto Archipelago, where barefoot luxury meets exceptional marine and land-based wildlife.
These awards highlight the diversity of experiences within the Kaelo Destinations portfolio, from remote wilderness exploration to a private beach escape.
Congratulations to the Kaelo team on three fantastic recognitions.
Bawe Island – Zanzibar
Rounding off our celebrations is Bawe Island, part of The Cocoon Collection, which ranked 12th among the Top 20 Resorts in Central and East Africa.
Just off the coast of Zanzibar, Bawe Island offers a private-island escape surrounded by the Indian Ocean. With luxurious accommodation, pristine beaches and an emphasis on privacy and personalised service, it brings a distinctive sense of exclusivity to an island stay.
Its recognition is a wonderful addition to this year’s results and a testament to the appeal of exceptional Indian Ocean hospitality.
Congratulations to The Cocoon Collection team.
View the Central and East Africa resort rankings
A fantastic achievement for our partners
From private island retreats and boutique coastal hotels to some of Africa’s finest safari experiences, these awards showcase the diversity and quality of the destinations within the Travel Promoters portfolio.
Most importantly, the Readers’ Choice Awards reflect the experiences valued by travellers themselves. Behind every recognition are the teams, guides, hosts and hospitality professionals who go the extra mile to make each stay special.
From all of us at Travel Promoters, congratulations to all our partners and their teams. We’re proud to work alongside you and look forward to celebrating many more successes together.
This Autumn, All Eyes Are on Bawe Island with the Debut of ‘Berton & Friends’!
The Cocoon Collection reveals who will be joining Michelin-starred Chef Andrea Berton on Bawe Island for the ‘Berton & Friends’ culinary experience.
The Cocoon Collection first gave us a glimpse of what was coming, teasing the debut of Berton & Friends without revealing the names of the chefs joining Michelin-starred Chef Andrea Berton.
Now, the wait is over, it’s time to unveil the full story.
From 22 to 29 November 2026, Bawe Island, Zanzibar’s private island paradise and a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, will host the first edition of Berton & Friends, a new culinary experience created by The Cocoon Collection together with Chef Andrea Berton.
For one week, the island will bring together three of Italy’s most distinctive culinary talents:
Chef Andrea Berton, Chef Cristina Bowerman and Chef & Master Chocolatier Ernst Knam.
More than a traditional gourmet week, Berton & Friends is about friendship, creativity and the exchange of ideas, bringing exceptional chefs and guests together in an extraordinary destination.
“Berton & Friends was born from the desire to create something that goes Berton & Friends was born from the desire to create something that goes beyond the traditional gourmet week,” says Andrea Berton. “It is about bringing together friendship, professional exchange, creativity and hospitality in extraordinary places, offering guests experiences they could not have anywhere else.”
The week will culminate in two special culinary events:
On 25 November, a Cooking Show Lunch will take place on the beach, with the three chefs preparing and sharing some of their signature creations, revealing the inspiration, techniques and stories behind them.
On 27 November, a Gala Dinner will begin at sunset with an exclusive aperitif featuring creations by the three chefs, followed by a dinner created especially for Bawe Island and the inaugural edition of the project.
A special creation by Giovanni De Ambrosis, Corporate Executive Chef of The Cocoon Collection, will bring a taste of the island to the table, while the music of Merk & Kremont and EDMEA will accompany the evening from sunset into the gala, adding an entertainment dimension to the culinary experience.
The result will be a celebration of contemporary Italian cuisine, international creativity and local ingredients, set against the crystal-clear waters and complete privacy of Bawe Island.
“Food has the power to create authentic connections and memories that stay with us,” says Giovanni De Ambrosis, “We want our guests to leave the Island with more than the memory of a holiday, but with the memory of an experience they could not have had anywhere else.”
With its debut in Zanzibar, Berton & Friends marks the beginning of a new culinary journey for The Cocoon Collection, with future editions planned in the Maldives and beyond, bringing new international culinary personalities to its extraordinary island destinations.
One private island, three exceptional Chefs and a week of food, music, friendship and discovery - welcome to Berton & friends.
The Cocoon Collection’s Commitment to Community and the Next-Generation
Zanzibar’s rapid tourism growth is reshaping the island, and The Cocoon Collection is helping ensure that this progress supports local communities through the impactful work of the Sofia Luna Azzola Foundation.
Zanzibar is a destination we are all familiar with, famed for its flawlessly white sand beaches, enticingly clear water and tropical climate. As tourism in Zanzibar is increasing at a rapid pace (and there is no wonder why) there is an ever-greater responsibility to ensure that this growth benefits not only visitors, but the communities and environment that make the island so special.
The Cocoon Collection, home to six stunning resorts and islands across Zanzibar and the Maldives, is committed to creating a lasting, positive impact on the communities surrounding its properties.
At the heart of this commitment is the Sofia Luna Azzola Foundation, a non-profit organisation established by the Azzola family in Zanzibar. Since then, the foundation has helped create valuable opportunities for local children, with a mission to ensure they have access to safe, inspiring and well-equipped learning environments. Let’s take a look at their remarkable journey and the difference it continues to make: .
2016 - The foundation was established by the Azzola family
↓
2017 - Library Renovation
The Foundation began by renovating the library room at Kilindi Government Primary & Secondary School. Their mission started off strong by creating a more engaging and accessible learning space for students.
↓
2018 - Nursery Classroom Development
A nursery classroom at Kilindi School was fully renovated and equipped with teaching and learning materials, in line with government standards. The Foundation also supported the initiative by funding teachers’ salaries until 2020.
↓
2019 - Swahib Al-Huda Nursery School, Kendwa
A milestone project, the Foundation built an entirely new kindergarten and guaranteed teachers wages, school uniforms and materials for 200 children.
↓
2022 - Thaqafa Nursery School, Jendweni
A newly built nursery school was opened in Kendwa with 6 classrooms, 2 teacher’s offices, 4 standard toilets and learning & teaching materials.
↓
2023 - Pongwe Primary & Secondary School
In collaboration with the local government, the Foundation completed a comprehensive renovation.
↓
Present
The Foundation continues to support the education and well-being of Zanzibar’s local communities. The students are also hosted weekly for breakfast at Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa, swimming lessons are organised for children, and guests and staff visit the Nursery school twice weekly.
↓
Looking Ahead
The Foundation is currently working towards establishing a Youth Football Camp in Kendwa Village.
This incredible foundation is a powerful reminder of how travel can create meaningful change long after a guest’s stay has ended. By investing in education and creating brighter opportunities for Zanzibar’s next generation, The Cocoon Collection is building a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the luxury experience.
Bawe Island: an Exceptional Gourmet Journey begins
Bawe Island is set to become Zanzibar’s newest fine‑dining hotspot this November as it hosts the inaugural “Berton & Friends” event by The Cocoon Collection, led by Michelin‑starred Chef Andrea Berton.
We are delighted to share that from 22 to 29 November 2026, Bawe Island, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, will host a landmark fine‑dining event set to make history: “Berton & Friends”.
Michelin‑starred Chef Andrea Berton
This new format by The Cocoon Collection is designed to become a signature tradition across our resorts in the Maldives and Zanzibar, bringing together leading figures in Italian and international gastronomy to create unforgettable culinary experiences.
Bawe Island will welcome the very first edition of this format—an absolute debut that positions Zanzibar as a rising capital of signature fine dining. And this is only the beginning: in the months ahead, the same format will reach The Cocoon Collection resorts in the Maldives, growing edition after edition with new internationally acclaimed Chefs.
As the name suggests, the driving force behind “Berton & Friends” is Michelin‑starred Chef Andrea Berton, who will invite close friends and prominent personalities from the world of gastronomy to join him at each edition.
We are not revealing yet who the “Friends” joining Chef Berton for this first, highly anticipated edition will be. What we can share is that these are names capable of leaving their mark, spanning fine pastry and Michelin stars.
The countdown has officially begun. This November, the place to be is Bawe Island. The Chefs, the programme and all the details to take part will be revealed in the coming weeks—because truly great occasions deserve the wait.
Discover The Cocoon Collection’s enhanced SUMMER OFFER:
Booking Period:
From 28th July 2026 until 30th September 2026
Market Validity: All markets
Offer Code: ENSUM-BAWE
Travel period:
From 28th July until 23rd December 2026
30% discount on room rate
Travel period:
From 28th July 2026 until 23rd December 2027
(All Year Round – No Blackout Period)
Free meal upgrade from Half Board to All Inclusive
Terms & Conditions:
Combinable with Honeymooners Offer.
This offer substitutes the previously sent Summer Offer.
Not combinable with contracted repeater's discount.
Discount on room rate only, not combinable with Early Bird Offer.
Discount on room rate only, not applicable for extra adult and children.
Discount not applicable on meal plan supplement.
30% discount is valid only for stays from 28th July 2026 till 23rd December 2026.
Room discount is not valid for stays in Sultan Palace.
No minimum stay is required to be entitled for Enhanced Summer Offer.
All Inclusive upgrade is valid for stays in all room categories, including Sultan Palace.
All Inclusive upgrade is applicable for all room guests, even extra adult and children.
Full Board supplement price as per contract.
Cancellation of existing bookings and re-booking will not be entitled to the offer.
Send your request or enquiries to: booking@baweisland.com
Gourmet Week Under The Maldivian Sky
January at The Cocoon Collection became a stage for Italian haute cuisine, with Chef Andrea Berton and Chef Daniele Provezza presenting exclusive Gourmet Weeks across You&Me Maldives and Joy Island Maldives.
January Celebrated Haute Cuisine at the Cocoon Collection Resorts
The Cocoon Collection opened 2026 with a month‑long celebration of Italian culinary excellence across its Maldivian resorts, presenting a series of Gourmet Weeks curated by leading contemporary chefs.
The programme began with Chef Andrea Berton at You&Me Maldives, where guests enjoyed two signature dining experiences: roasted scallops with carrot, passion fruit, hazelnuts and pak choi at the Green Carpet, followed by a refined interpretation of saffron risotto with veal jus and aromatic gremolada at The Sand.
These events seamlessly complement the resort’s Premium All Inclusive Experience, a concept designed as a fluid, sensorial journey that blends taste, discovery and wellbeing throughout the guest’s stay.
From 15 to 27 January, the spotlight shifted to Chef Daniele Provezza of Dispensa Franciacorta, who presented four exclusive culinary moments across Joy Island Maldives and You&Me Maldives.
Highlights included a steamed bao bun with Bresciano corn and yellowfin tuna tartare, slow‑cooked jackfish with spiced mango chutney and Franciacorta sauce, marinated mahi mahi with Sebino olive mayonnaise, and a luxurious raviolo with egg yolk, potato, Franciacorta and Calvisius caviar.
“The Gourmet Weeks are a natural extension of our culinary vision,” says Giovanni De Ambrosis, Culinary Director of The Cocoon Collection. “They create meaningful encounters between chefs, territories and inspirations, offering guests authentic and memorable experiences.”
With its January programme, The Cocoon Collection reinforced its position as a leading destination for exceptional gastronomic journeys in the Maldives.
Three Different Ways to Experience Zanzibar with The Cocoon Collection
A short insightful look into the 3 Cocoon Collection properties in Zanzibar and what makes them so unique.
Wondering which Zanzibar stay would suit your clients?
Island Pongwe • Gold Zanzibar • Bawe Island
Choosing where to stay in Zanzibar often comes down to the kind of holiday your clients want — quiet and simple, social and activity‑driven, or exclusive with plenty of space. We put together a quick look at how Island Pongwe, Gold Zanzibar and Bawe Island each deliver a different experience.
Island Pongwe - the ideal retreat for guests looking for Eco, Slow and luxuriously simple:
Island Pongwe suits travellers who want calm, privacy and a slower pace. It’s a small, female‑led eco‑lodge with a “back‑to‑basics but still comfortable” approach - we like to describe it as a ‘luxury‑Robinson‑Crusoe experience’ — no Wi‑Fi, fresh local produce, and an emphasis on switching off. Days follow the rhythm of the tides as the Eastern side of the island sees a bigger tidal shift each day: swimming, kayaking, paddle‑boarding, spa treatments, or walking the exposed sandbanks at low tide. Guests can explore Pongwe Bay and the nearby village when they want movement and interaction with the local culture, then return to the island for quiet time. It’s ideal for guests who value simplicity, nature and a peaceful base.
Gold Zanzibar - A classic beach holiday with buzzing energy
Gold Zanzibar is the right fit if your guests want a lively atmosphere, long beach days and plenty of activity. It sits on one of the island’s best beaches, known for soft sand, great sunsets and minimal tidal impact — which means more consistent swimming and water sports. The resort is large, with varied room categories, multiple dining options and a steady holiday buzz created by both locals in and around the town and with international guests staying in the hotel. The hotel offers a generously sized private beach in front of the hotel. Guests will love Gold if they enjoy a sociable environment, easy access to facilities, and a beach that’s active from morning to evening.
Bawe Island - Space, Privacy and Marine Access
Bawe Island works well for guests who want exclusivity without feeling isolated. 15 minutes by boats from Stonetown, Bawe has 70 villas spaced across the island, it offers privacy and room to breathe while still providing full resort facilities. The surrounding waters form part of a protected marine area, and the island has a dedicated water‑sports centre for non‑motorised activities like kayaking and snorkelling. Diving can be arranged through off‑island excursions, usually a short boat trip away. Bawe is a good match for guests who want comfort, nature and a quieter atmosphere than the main island, but with more structure and amenities than a small eco‑lodge.
Maldives Moments: Team Travel Promoters explore Cocoon Collection
Rosanna and Laura share their tips and experiences from their recent Maldives Fam Trip with Cocoon Collection.
Rosanna and Laura share valuable insight into their time at The Cocoon Collection in Maldives:
From the moment we glimpsed those stark white islands scattered across turquoise seas, the Maldives felt like a dream made real. Arriving by seaplane — barefoot pilots, sweeping views, and that adventurous hum of propellers — set the tone for a journey that would be both serene and spirited.
Our itinerary took us across three distinct properties in the Cocoon Collection: Cocoon Maldives, You & Me Maldives, and Joy Island. Each offered its own rhythm, its own soul — and together, they revealed the diversity and depth of what the Maldives can be.
Cocoon Maldives
Cocoon Maldives is the image that springs to mind when you picture the Maldives: turquoise waters, endless white sand, and palm-covered walkways that frame the beach like a painting. It’s barefoot luxury at its most authentic — relaxed, refined, and quietly confident.
The vibe is beautifully balanced between calm and play. Couples will find tucked-away corners for romance, while families can enjoy the lively energy of the island’s social spaces. The Kiddies Cove is a standout — well-run, welcoming, and even offers babysitting.
Visually, the island is stunning. With 7.2 hectares of beach, there’s space to breathe. Egg chairs nestled in the palms at the island’s tip invite you to pause and take it all in. The staff know the island like the back of their hand, and the service is warm, intuitive, and never intrusive.
Signature experience? The Japanese Corner — a hands-on cooking experience that was as fun as it was delicious. We flipped, stirred, and tasted our way through a meal that felt both personal and celebratory.
Trade takeaway: Cocoon is the Maldives as you imagine it — traditional, timeless, and beautifully designed.
You & Me Maldives
You & Me is the quiet soul of the Cocoon Collection. The smallest of the three islands, it’s adult-only and wrapped in a slower, more intimate pace. Think sandy walkways, lush foliage, and rustic elegance — thatched roofs, wooden frames, and sand underfoot in the restaurants.
It’s ideal for couples celebrating something special, but also for solo travellers or groups of friends seeking connection and calm.
Standout for this property - The H2O underwater restaurant is a showstopper — a 5- or 7-course sensory feast beneath the sea.
Service here is polished yet relaxed. Staff are composed, friendly, and deeply attentive. You’re looked after from the moment you arrive, and the atmosphere is one of ease and grace.
Trade takeaway: For a romantic, rustic, and elegantly nurtured escape, You & Me is a perfect fit — especially for clients seeking something quieter and more refined.
Joy Island
Joy is exactly that — joyful. It’s vibrant, social, and full of energy, but never overwhelming. The island is cleverly designed with both lively and quiet zones, including a silent beach with no Wi-Fi or music for those craving stillness.
It’s a great fit for couples, families, and solo travellers alike. The décor is bright and playful in the overwater villas, while the beach villas are nestled in foliage with darker woods and a more grounded feel — a lovely contrast.
Signature moments? Snorkelling from the beach was unexpectedly brilliant, and the Palm Bar staff were a highlight — remembering orders, crafting new drinks, and bringing a sense of fun to every interaction.
Service here is chatty, relaxed, and full of personality. You feel looked after, but also part of the island’s rhythm.
Trade takeaway: Joy’s proximity to Malé makes it incredibly accessible, and its vibe — friendly, beautiful, and full of flavour — is a winner. And yes, the pizza really is that good.
Travel Promoters Tip
When selling the Maldives, ask your clients what truly matters to them. Is it the distance to/from Male and are they comfortable on a seaplane or speedboat? Is it the personalised service, the size of the island or the age demographic? Would they prefer an over water villa or the foliaged privacy of a beachfront suite?
Many properties offer similar activities, but what sets the Cocoon Collection apart is the service — warm, personal, and joyfully consistent across every island. The staff are radiant, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in each guest’s experience. That’s hard to replicate — and it’s what makes Cocoon a confident recommendation for any traveller.
You&Me Maldives raises the bar with Premium All Inclusive
A new and exciting enhancement to You&Me’s offering is the move to a new Premium All Inclusive package from 27 December 2025, designed to redefine the luxury living concept.
You&Me Maldives raises the bar with Premium All Inclusive
Maldives, 10 September 2025 – You&Me Maldives by The Cocoon Collection, idyllically positioned in the pristine Raa Atoll, is the ideal refuge for those wanting to celebrate the holidays and end of year festivities surrounded by elegance, privacy and wild nature.
Launched in 2019, this adults-only resort is a romantic private island where the white sand meets crystalline lagoons and nature holds centre stage. Guests are encouraged to not only admire this pristine environment, but to get hands on in sustainability under the expert guidance of resident marine biologist Haroon Rasheed, engaging in things like coral planting, sponsoring fragments as well as marine talks and guided nature walks.
A new and exciting enhancement to You&Me’s offering is the move to a new Premium All Inclusive package from 27 December 2025, designed to redefine the luxury living concept, ensuring that every moment from arrival to departure feels ultra exclusive and refined, with highly personalised attention to detail and service.
This VIP service starts with lounge access at Velana International Airport's seaplane terminal for an extra warm welcome, followed by delicious canapés and a bottle of sparkling wine on ice awaiting in their villa on check-in, kicking off a dream stay in style as a prelude to the gastronomic journey ahead.
Breakfast on the island is served at the main restaurant The Sand, with lunch and dinner enjoyed à la carte in any one of the five restaurants of the resort – The Sand, Green Carpet, Rising Sun, La Pasta and the new Sushi Bar. There are also three weekly themed evenings including a spectacular BBQ of fresh fish and shellfish with lobster, shrimp and oysters.
Every day, from 10am to 2am, in every corner of the resort (except H2O), guests can enjoy an unlimited selection of Champagne, wines, international beers, soft drinks, fresh juices, mineral waters, signature cocktails, premium spirits such as gin, vodka, whiskey, brandy, tequila, rum, arrack and martinis, as well as a range of creative mocktails.
High tea is served daily from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm at the Cheers Bar with a choice of teas, coffees and tasty delicacies.
The mini bar in each villa is also refilled daily with soft drinks, beer, red and white wine, savoury snacks, and for stays of at least five nights, it also includes two bottles of alcoholic beverages of your choice from the Premium menu.
The only dining experience not included in the new Premium All Inclusive package is You & me Maldives’ iconic underwater restaurant H2O signed by Michelin-starred chef Andrea Berton due to high demand. This unforgettable, bucket list dining experience must be prebooked to ensure availability and is at an additional cost.
But the enchantment doesn't stop at the table: You&Me offers a wide range of activities at no extra charge including snorkelling (with equipment), unlimited non-motorized water sports and full access to the gym with up to three yoga or pilates sessions.
Longer stays also enjoy added complimentary activities such as:
a sunset cruise for stays of at least three nights,
a Maldivian or Italian cooking course for stays of at least five nights,
a catamaran cruise for stays of at least seven nights,
The resort also hosts entertaining evening events such as the White Party, the Boduberu Night, DJ sets, live bands, karaoke, open-air cinema and much more, creating a magical atmosphere which invites guests connect with themselves, their partners, fellow guests and Mother Nature.
You&Me Maldives is the perfect place to celebrate the festive holidays and see in the New Year in absolute style and elegance.
UK Press contact: Claire Roadley at Umlingo Travel PR claire@umlingo.co.uk / +44 (0)7795108195
