Kelli Armstrong
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Articles by Kelli Armstrong
If you want to see the true beauty of Rarotonga, you need to do these tours
If you're heading to Rarotonga, don't miss these tours. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands, is a paradise where crystalline lagoons meet lush mountain peaks and authentic Polynesian culture thrives.
Hotel review: The Connaught Hotel Mayfair London
It's the kind of hotel that reminds you why grand dames endure. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. On a leafy corner of Carlos Place in London’s ritzy Mayfair, The Connaught’s red-brick façade gleams like a well-kept secret.
Review: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa perfects relaxed luxury in Koh Samui
Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Koh Samui sits on a quiet stretch of Lipa Noi Beach on the island's west coast. The sunsets here are reliably spectacular and the pace is unhurried… except for those looking for pool party vibes which they’ll find in the luxury confines of this resort. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. My first stay at Nikki Beach was over New Year’s Eve 2025/26.
Review: Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat
This Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat hotel has glamour and luxury woven into every immaculate detail. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat.. Pinch me! I think to myself as my Uber winds the path that’s been frequented by European royalty and Hollywood legends for decades.
Review: Emporium Hotel Southbank
The Emporium Hotel in Brisbane’s South Bank doesn’t shy away from standing out. With mirror interiors, zebra print trim and a sky-high pool and bar to be seen at, this luxe hotel is a sexy stay. Location Right in the Heart of South Bank, Brisbane, the Emporium Hotel is surrounded by artsy museums, populated riverside parks and pools, and multiple restaurants and bars.
The Las Vegas Sphere: these are the 6 coolest things
Las Vegas is a city known for its larger-than-life attractions, but it’s the Sphere, which opened less than a year ago, that stands out as a beacon of the future of entertainment. The giant orb redefining Sin City’s skyline is officially known as the MSG Sphere at The Venetian and is just a block away from the glitter strip.
Italian Renaissance Alive: breathtaking new HOTA exhibition
Mona Lisa just winked at me. She’s a cheeky compilation of brushstrokes, that one. I wonder if she flirted like this with her creator, Leonardo da Vinci. Perhaps she knew that one day her portrait would become the best known, most sung about and certainly the most visited work of art on the planet. Today she’s appearing to me larger than life, courtesy of clever visual effects, at the Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition at HOTA, the Gold Coast’s Home of the Arts.
Treat yourself to this 5-star stay in Paris, you won't regret it
For lovers or history and culture (and set-jetting) the Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal is a sophisticated stay just moments from the Louvre, the Tuileries Gardens, boutiques and bistros. Location Parisian addresses don’t come better than this one in the city’s 1st arrondissement. While it’s wonderfully quiet, it is surrounded by iconic landmarks including the Louvre Museum, the Palais Royal gardens, the Opera Garnier, Place de la Concorde and the boutiques of Rue Saint-Honore… just to name a few.
Disfrutar in Barcelona is named the World’s Best Restaurant at the World’s 50 Best Awards in Las Vegas
The World’s 50 Best Restaurant Awards was held in Las Vegas on June 6th with Wynn Casino hosting the best chefs and famous foodies from across the globe. Barcelona’s Disfrutar was crowned the 2024 winner as voted by 1080 representatives from around the world. The experimental restaurant was closely followed by Spain’s Asador Etxebarri and Paris’s Table by Bruno Verjus in at number three.
I stayed at the Darling Hotel inside a Gold Coast casino
Rising high above the vibrant energy of the Gold Coast, The Darling Hotel is a flashy stay featuring luxurious rooms, a pool club and endless dining options. The Lowdown Designed by Las Vegas-based architects the Steelman Brothers, the 17-storey luxury hotel was part of The Star Gold Coast’s 850M refurbishment pre-Covid and it still looks and feels brand new. The property features 56 spacious suites ranging in size from 70sqm to a grand 328sqm with wraparound balconies.
Review of Brisbane’s new Emirates Business Class Lounge
The refreshed Emirates Business Class Lounge has a boarding gate just footsteps from where guests can relax, wine and dine. What more reason is there to opt for flying out of the River City when travelling long haul? The lowdown As one of four Emirates lounges across Australia, the Brisbane Airport space hosts up to 183 passengers between the hours of 530am - 130am.
Le Grand Mazarin Paris hotel review the perfect luxury stay
Positioned perfectly in the city's bohemian 4th Arrondissement, this five-star hotel opened only last year and is already making its mark on the Marais district. The Lowdown French boutique elegance meets eclectic modern luxury at this hotel that’s perfectly positioned for shopping, dining and sightseeing in Paris’s vibrant Marais district.
The low down on Madrid's newest luxury hotel
The low down Europe’s newest Thompson Hotel is a hip 10-story property in the heart of Madrid with a destination restaurant and rooftop bar with views to Madrid’s icons. Location The Hyatt property is situated just moments from where Madrid’s bustling Gran Vía intersects with trendy neighbourhoods Fuencarral and Hortaleza. It’s a location that is alive day and night with locals and visitors shopping, dining, drinking and clubbing.
The Westin Brisbane hotel review the perfect urban oasis
Being a Brisbane local, I’ve driven to the city for a weekend wellness staycay at The Westin. Pulling up to the valet, I’m already picturing myself at the resort-style pool, luxuriating in the Heavenly Spa and dining at celebrated Italian chef Guy Grossi’s onsite restaurant, Settimo. The property prides itself on being an urban wellness hotel where guests can work, play, eat, move and sleep well.
What to do in 3 days in Seoul Original
The vibrant South Korean metropolis is a must-visit capital combining tradition and all the fun and fried chicken you could want. DAY ONE: Morning I wake up at the Moxy Hotel in the bustling neighbourhood of Insadong having arrived at 11pm the previous night, after an 11-hour flight from Sydney. The hotel’s breakfast beckons before we head out into Gangnam, a district made famous in 2012 by K-pop rapper Psy.
Your guide to seeing Seoul
Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, creating a unique tapestry of experiences for travellers seeking authenticity. Here's what to do the next time you're there. Stylish stay at Moxy Hotel in Insadong Check into the trendy Moxy Hotel in Insadong. Located in the heart of this historic district, Moxy offers a stylish and vibrant atmosphere that perfectly complements the surrounding cultural richness.
Best things to see and do in Seoul for first-timers
Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, creating a unique tapestry of experiences for travellers seeking authenticity. Here's what to do the next time you're there. Stylish stay at Moxy Hotel in Insadong Check into the trendy Moxy Hotel in Insadong. Located in the heart of this historic district, Moxy offers a stylish and vibrant atmosphere that perfectly complements the surrounding cultural richness.
I spent 72 hours on K’gari Original
The Fraser Coast, about 260km north of Brisbane, boasts epic whale watching, incredible diving and secluded beaches. But it’s World Heritage site K’gari that my GPS is programmed for. Formerly known as Fraser Island, it’s owned by the Butchulla people, and K’gari – the island’s original Indigenous name, which translates to “paradise” – was reinstated this year.
Bathrobe detail stuns at Australia’s No.1 hotel Original
So luxe and sophisticated is the Calile Hotel that some say it’s responsible for kicking off Brisbane’s skyrocketing reputation for cool. This year it landed at number 12 on the inaugural World’s 50 Best Hotels list – the only Australian property to be included – and having checked in for a weekend staycation in the city I now call home, I can’t disagree with the accolade. The so-chic property in the heart of the bustling James Street precinct positions itself as a subtropical city resort.
I cruised the Mediterranean, touring the ancient city of Ephesus was No.1 Original
Nestled on the western coast of Turkey, the archaeological site of Ephesus is a place where time seems to stand still, allowing visitors to step back into the world of antiquity. This is a dream for me, a lover of ancient history since I first spied pyramids on the cover of National Geographic as a child. Ephesus was once a thriving Greek and Roman metropolis, home to 250,000 people in the 1st century BC. Today only 10 per cent of the site is said to have been excavated.
I stayed in Byron’s newest ranch, here’s what I thought Original
I’ve missed the turn off and found myself on a country road in northern NSW meandering through rolling green hills with distant views to the ocean. What a beautiful part of the world this is. No wonder it was chosen as the site of Australia’s first true ranch stay, Sun Ranch, which I eventually find when I turn back to veer onto Coopers Shoot Road in Bundjalung Country.
My big mistake on stunning Greek island Original
An hour after leaving Athens, and as the sun paints the sky with hues of pink and gold, I land on the Greek island of Kefalonia. The largest of the Ionian Islands is mountainous but bordered with velvet sand beaches, charming fishing villages and natural wonders that I’m eager to explore for a few days before boarding a cruise to discover more of this Mediterranean paradise.
I spent a week in the Maldives with Delta Goodrem Original
The latest travel trend involves packing your bags for paradise and arriving to mingle with your favourite musicians in between surf lessons, buffet breakfasts, snorkelling and cocktails. When an invitation came through to visit the Maldives for a week and enjoy three evenings of intimate performance with Delta Goodrem and her band, I was sold. The Maldives has always been a dream destination of mine, and I knew my travel companion, my six-year-old daughter, would love it, too.
This soothing country retreat is a world away from the Gold Coast
After a long work week, I’m delighted to spend a relaxing weekend at Verandah House. The property boasts eight luxe suites, a cedar hot tub, infra-red sauna, swimming pool and views to country and coast. After winding up the Hinterland’s mountainous roads, I turn down the driveway off Munro Court to the sight of Verandah House’s grand white homestead frontage.
Why The Evelyn Hotel is your next Manhattan destination in NYC Original
Your granny's name is also Manhattan's hottest new hotel. Located in New York’s NoMad neighbourhood - formerly the scene of Tin Pan Alley during the Jazz age - the Hotel Evelyn is a reimagined nod to the city’s art deco days. The property even takes its name from American ‘it girl’ Evelyn Nesbitt who was an artist and fashion model in New York in the early 1900s. A bright red facade greets me as I enter off East 27th Street just moments from Madison Square Park and the Flatiron District.
I found the trendiest hotel in New York's East Village
Hotel Moxy in the East Village of New York City is a trendy and stylish accommodation option that is a great choice for travellers seeking a fun and affordable stay in the city. The hotel's modern and youthful vibe is reflected in the design of the rooms, the restaurant and rooftop bar, and the overall ambiance of the property. My room was compact - the door opened into a vanity - yet it was comfortable, with efficient use of space and clever design elements that made it inviting.
Tired of New York's manic energy? This hotel is the perfect tonic
Amidst the chaos of Manhattan’s Chinatown is a no-fuss hotel hiding incredible views and a buzzy rooftop bar. Kelli Armstrong checks in. Chinatown in New York City is a calamity of street hawkers, jewellery stores, overhead lanterns and yellow cabs elbowing delivery trucks on bicycle-packed laneways. It wouldn’t normally be an area I’d choose to stay when visiting the Big Apple.
Hotel review of The Langham Gold Coast and its barefoot luxury
The Langham Gold Coast, which opened in June, is the Goldie’s first beachfront property in 30 years and only Australia’s third Langham after Sydney and Melbourne. Jewel Towers comprises three glistening towers shadowing the sands of Broadbeach. The outer towers are residences and the middle tower, and tallest, is the location of 169 rooms and suites, wellness spaces and five very individual dining options. A swift lift ride to the 16th floor and I’m opening the door on a Junior Ocean Suite.
We stayed at … W Hotel, Brisbane, Queensland
The splashy big sister of hotels matures into a sophisticated lady at Brisbane’s riverfront property. Kelli Armstrong checks in. When four friends move from Sydney to South East Queensland but never find time to catch up, what else to do but plan a weekend girls getaway. Once we agreed on a flash city hotel, we found ourselves checking into Brisbane’s W Hotel one Saturday afternoon. Greeted on a first-name basis at the driveway entrance, I was immediately impressed.
Shangri-La Singapore is still Singapore’s best family hotel
For a 50-year-old dame, the hotel is looking fine, set amid 6ha of tropical gardens and water features. Though the doormen’s livery has not been modified since the hotel – the first Shangri-La – opened in 1971, parts of the property have. It consists of her 792 rooms in three wings, the contemporary Tower wing, the lavish Valley Wing and the family-friendly Garden Wing, which is where my mother, daughter and I stay on a mini multi-gen holiday in the Lion City.
JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa: The hotel you won’t want to leave
Reimagined in 2020, the five-star JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa doesn’t disappoint upon entry with its vast lobby complete with sweeping overhead fans, multiple sit-down spaces and glass windows with a vista to the famous lagoon pool. It’s in that moment of relaxation that I forget we are a 10-minute walk from Surfers Paradise, a tram-ride to Pacific Fair’s premium shopping hub, or a scenic drive to the not-too-distant Gold Coast hinterland.
I bought a $24 smoothie in New York City Original
I couldn’t have been more excited to return to New York City post-COVID. Having lived there for three years, I was busting to get back to visit friends and my favourite haunts and to delight in what used to be my favourite smoothies. Yes, I do love a smoothie. That was until I saw the $24 price tag! Juice Press was always my go to for a moment of liquid wellness during Big Apple summers.
Truth about Air New Zealand’s new non-stop NYC flight
I flew direct from New York to New Zealand and it took 17 hours. As I write, I am 7255m up in the air and I have 16 hours and 24 minutes flying time to Auckland, New Zealand. I am aboard the new direct flight from New York’s JFK to Auckland on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. What’s better I am experiencing it all in their new business premier class. Seated in 4K, I am in one of 27 single lie-flat business class seats.
Disney World: Top tips, tricks and highlights you need to know about
Dodging adults on scooters, mask-wearing in 37C heat and queueing hours for a five-minute ride – some might wonder what’s to love about Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Well, after an epic four days touring Orlando’s four main Disney parks with a five-year-old, I can tell you there’s plenty to love, so much to learn and only a little to loathe. 1. Try the turkey I’ve never seen a turkey leg as big as those being eaten at Magic Kingdom.
Disney Wish cruise ship review
Gliding giddily into the Disney Wish three-deck Grand Hall towards its sweeping staircase my five-year-old daughter squeals, “Cinderella and Prince Charming, Mummy Mummy look!!!” From a balcony the princess and her beloved welcome us to Disney Wish’s inaugural sailing from Cape Canaveral, Florida to the Bahamas. She excitedly waves back with the sparkly wand gifted to her upon arrival… Seems my fairy tale-loving daughter’s first wish has already been granted.
Star Wars Hyperspace Bar on Disney Wish cruise ship: Review
With my daughter safely enjoying Anna and Elsa’s Sommerhus lounge in the Oceaneer kids club, I arrive at another lounge, the first-of-its-kind Star Wars; Hyperspace Lounge onboard the sparkling new Disney Wish ocean liner.
NRMA Treasure Island Gold Coast review: New favourite family holiday
While there’s no shiny lobby, fancy bed sheets or dial-up room service, a getaway at an NRMA Holiday Resort turned out to be one of my favourite family breaks. Located 15 minutes’ drive from Surfers Paradise in Biggera Waters, Treasure Island is one of NRMA Parks and Resorts’ 37 properties across the country and, although it’s the first one we’ve stayed at, it won’t be the last.
Bali to bombshell – how this orange Midnight Swim bikini went cult - Grazia
Cara Delevigne is the reason this sexy Australian swimsuit label was born. We’re not surprised its signature piece starred in Sports Illustrated within a year That iconic orange bikini in the Midnight Swim Luxe Sport Collection Credit: Kane Skennar for Midnight Swim Bali-based designer Genevieve Er swapped a career in IT for fashion in 2007 after realising her heart lay in fabric and design rather than long office hours.
Uluru for kids: The rock that’s even better than the hotel pool
Every day at preschool, my four-year-old daughter and her peers sit in a circle to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land they are gathered on and give thanks to elders past, present and emerging. This recognition and respect for our traditional landowners and learning about the unique position and history of Aboriginal people in Australian culture inspired a trip to the heart of this sunburnt land.
10 best things to do at Uluru for families
1/10 Stargazing Meet in the Yulara Town Square for a lesson in astronomy from the Aboriginal culture perspective. Since the beginning of time, Aboriginal people have used the stars to predict the seasons, animal migrations and when to hunt for food. Kids will love the opportunity to look through a giant telescope at a starspangled Milky Way as a local guide points out animal formations and stirs the senses with dark sky storytelling.
OPINION/GUEST VIEW: From Salve Regina's campus, hope for the New Year
Kelli J. Armstrong In 2019, I joined the Aquidneck Island community as a new university president, full of ideas, enthusiasm, and energy. Today, I write to you, still full of ideas, enthusiasm, and energy, but also with a sense of hope as we head into 2022. Among the many things I have learned as president of Salve Regina is that the University is intrinsically connected to Aquidneck Island and our state.
If you love photography, you need to stay here
Waking up to one of Australia’s most instagrammable landmarks, the Sydney Opera House, and having professional camera equipment at your fingertips to capture the sun rising over those iconic white sails, now that’s a luxury staycay. Overnighting in the Fuji GFX Suite at Sydney’s Park Hyatt offers just that and more.
80s fashion icons and how to steal their 1980s style
Maybe you’re old enough to remember exaggerated 1980s fashion. Or perhaps you’re young enough that Hedi Slimane’s final show for Saint Laurent this season (pictured below) was your first taste of that decade’s OTT proportions. Either way, the glam 80s throwback trend is one that’s set to dominate for the rest of this year. Here’s a little styling inspiration from the fashion decade that’s got designers going large this season.
Take a look inside Coogee Bay Hotel's new beachside restaurant
Marrah restaurant's interiors are inspired by its coastal surroundings. Picture: Marrah restaurant Throughout its 140 years in the sun, Sydney’s Coogee Bay Hotel has never been famous for its dining. Live music and beer-garden brawls, perhaps, but a melt-in-your-mouth menu? Not so much. That is, until the buzzy beachside hotel’s new restaurant, Marrah, affirmed its place on the culinary scene.
Flying domestically in Australia during COVID: Here’s what shocked me
Queensland has now closed its borders to residents of Sydney. But right before that I happened, I made a snap decision to buy tickets for myself and my three year old to fly to the Sunshine Coast to visit my mum. Having not seen her since Christmas, we couldn’t wait any longer. With limited flights to Maroochydore, we booked into Brisbane on Jetstar for $139 each on Tuesday evening. I kept everything crossed that we would make our 6pm flight three days out from the booking.
GUEST VIEW: As dorm proposal advances, Salve Regina University takes pride in Newport partnerships
By Kelli J. Armstrong Monday Feb 17, 2020 at 3:45 PM Guest views are the personal opinion of the author. How fortunate I was last September to deliver my inaugural address as Salve Regina's new president with Newport's stunning Cliff Walk as a backdrop. As I come to know the university’s relationship with our city and neighborhood district, I'm struck by the shared history and values that remain so important to our common home.
The virtues of servant leadership
Kelli J. Armstrong became the first layperson to serve as president of Salve Regina in July, when she succeeded the retiring Sister Jane Gerety. Before coming to Salve, she worked at Boston College in a variety of positions, including vice president for planning and assessment, associate vice president and as founding director of the institutional research department. / PBN PHOTO/TRACY JENKINS Kelli J.
GUEST VIEW: Thank you for the warm welcome to Newport
By Kelli J. Armstrong Monday Sep 2, 2019 at 3:58 PM Sep 2, 2019 at 4:59 PM Open letter to the Newport community: With our campus bustling at the start of an exciting new academic year, I want to take this moment to express how excited I am to begin my first year as president of Salve Regina University. I’m amazed at the beauty and the diversity of Newport and I find myself more grateful each day to be a resident of this extraordinary community.
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