5 new hotels with the Secret Sauce
Stays I can’t stop thinking about!
Every now and then I come across a hotel that stops me in my tracks. It’s like two little antennas instantly spring out of my head, scanning for every tiny detail. I’m noticing the design, the atmosphere, the rituals, the service, the scent everything that gives a place the secret sauce.
Not because it’s expensive or covered in travertine.
But because every single detail feels considered. Intentional. Or, better yet, it’s breaking the “heads on beds” mould entirely.
These are five new stays I can’t stop thinking about and why.
The Whale, Narooma by Merrivale
Designer Nasmin Köerting has created interiors that have you at hello! It all feels warm, layered, glowy and luxurious.
Think 70’s textures meets an Ibizan holiday house, with a magnesium pool, sauna and pickleball court adding to the experience without stealing the show.
It’s all elevated by the signature Merivale hospitality.
Moongang, Ubud
This place is overflowing with creative energy.
Owned and operated by Kirsten Millbank of Adelaide-based Firstbase Studio, brought to life by Dancecard dynamics and the design genius of YSG Studio.
Collaborating with more than 15 local artisans for bespoke, tiles, furniture, art and textiles - it feels deeply connected to its community and surroundings. Set amongst rice fields, it captures the feeling of old Bali while creating something entirely new, with just the right touch of cosmic.
The sensory gardens, wellness spa, and playlist complete this creative paradise as well as the incredible Moon Gangsters team who make the experience feel transportive from the moment you arrive.
Hangar (Cabins) by Temple Farmhouse
Closer to home, the team behind Temple Farmhouse in Nashua have created something really special.
Their new Hangar (cabins) feel like a natural extension of the property - organic, textural and deeply connected to the landscape. Luxury here isn’t about excess. It’s about slowing things right down.
Nature is the hero, with architecture that frames the Northern Rivers beautifully. Stargazing, stillness and thoughtful, earthy design come together to create the kind of place where you instantly exhale.
Surf Hotel, Torquay
Australian surf culture has never looked so good.
Beachfront, relaxed and completely authentic, with exceptional food led by chef Jo Barrett and an impressive art collection woven throughout the spaces.
It feels barefoot and effortless which is often the hardest thing to achieve.
Masse, Paris
Tucked away in Montmartre, new “IT” hotel Masse is the vision of siblings Cole and Corto Peyron - a personal tribute to their parents.
Originally a 19th-century apartment building, it has been reimagined as a 40-room urban retreat. It’s simplistic design proves that restraint can be incredibly powerful. Minimal in all the right ways, sensory without ever feeling showy, chic and confident from start to finish.
It’s a reminder that less really can be more.
Here’s what they all have in common.
None of these hotels are trying to be everything to everyone and they’re not confused about what they are.
Plus they are connected to a sense of place and every design choice, every experience, every touchpoint reinforces that.
That’s the secret sauce.
It’s what turns a “nice” property into one with steeze that guests remember, recommend and book again and again!
It’s also exactly what I teach inside Room Service.
If you’re ready to unlock your creativity and create an Airbnb or boutique stay that guests can’t stop thinking about, use code SECRETSAUCE30 for 30% off the Room Service Express Masterclass as a VIP Substack subscriber.
This exclusive offer is available for a limited time only.
Big love & sweet dreams, Julz xx