Creating a sense of carefree luxury is almost like shaking together the ingredients for your favourite cocktail – sunshine is likely to be in there, followed by comfort and relaxation.

Tucked away in the remote northern region of Japan’s Akita Prefecture lies Ani Ski Resort. If you’re seeking a ski adventure away from the typical tourist crowds, Ani is the perfect destination.

Since the ÀNI private resort is around a three hour drive from the international airport in Colombo, we first stopped-off for a night in the most luxurious and authentic airport hotel I’ve experienced ...