About Irene Fernandes

Irene Fernandes is a Mumbai-based independent journalist and content editor with over 19 years of experience in lifestyle, travel, real estate, and luxury features. She holds degrees in Life Sciences and Law, along with a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication. Formerly, a senior journalist and editor at The Times of India, Irene has spearheaded coffee table books, magazines, international travel features, hyperlocal features, and award-winning editorial projects. When not crafting compelling narratives, you will find Irene planning her next wanderlust or honing her singing skills. On work-free days, Irene enjoys cooking a hearty meal from scratch for her loved ones, catching up on her reading list, or capturing Mumbai’s hidden bylanes through street photography.
3 June 3, 2026

Luxury Villa vs 5-star Hotel: Which is Better for Bali, Phuket or Koh Samui?

By |2026-06-11T16:15:50+08:00June 3, 2026|Categories: Places to Stay, Travel Tips|Tags: , , , |

Choosing between a luxury villa and a five-star hotel in Bali, Phuket or Koh Samui depends on what you value most; space, privacy, cost-efficiency or personalised service. This guide compares both options across key factors and explains why private villas are increasingly preferred by families and groups.

20 May 20, 2026

How Much Does a Luxury Villa in Bali Cost for a Week? 

By |2026-06-04T11:24:59+08:00May 20, 2026|Categories: Destinations|Tags: , , |

Renting a luxury villa in Bali depends on the location, villa size, seasonality, and amenities. Here’s a guide that breaks down the full cost spectrum, understanding what drives the pricing of these luxury villa rentals, and why, when compared with hotels, villas deliver better value for families and groups. Here’s all that you need to know before planning your Bali vacation. 

12 April 12, 2026

Why Book Direct with Elite Havens: Best Price, Personal Concierge & 28 Years of Expertise

By |2026-04-16T09:03:56+08:00April 12, 2026|Categories: Featured, Travel Tips|Tags: , , , |

In an age of booking platforms and comparison websites, it’s tempting to assume that the best way to secure a luxury villa is through a third-party site. Yet, seasoned travellers increasingly choose to book directly with Elite Havens, and for good reason. Beyond competitive pricing, booking direct unlocks a deeper level of expertise, personalisation, and reliability that transforms a villa stay into a thoughtfully curated holiday.

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