Get on board this 15-night luxury rail trip through the Arctic Circle

August 30, 2023 No Comments

For 2024, Up Norway, the leading curator of sustainable luxury travel experiences in Norway, will be offering a northern extension to its Arctic Circle Express Train Journey with stops in Lofoten and then on to Narvik. 

The 15-night rail centric experience begins in Oslo, the vibrant heart of Norway where a bustling metropolitan atmosphere meets pioneering art, architecture, and design. The itinerary continues on from Oslo by train, stopping in Bergen, Ålesund, Trondheim, Bodø, and, with the new extension, Lofoten and Narvik.

About the journey

With Bodø poised to shine as the European Capital of Culture in 2024, an extra layer of cultural enrichment adds to the allure. Along the entire journey, travellers will enjoy personal encounters with locals that offer unique perspectives, a diversity of local sea and farm to table cuisine, and impactful activities from cruising the fjord and kayaking along narrow waterways to the UNESCO protected Bryggen Wharf, hiking the Alnes lighthouse on Godøya island, exploration of both large cities and small town, and more.

In Lofoten, with the added trip extension, travellers can enjoy remote villages, a dramatic Scenic Route, adrenaline-pumping arctic surfing, and international art collections.

Then, they’ll progress on to Narvik where a private guided tour of the War Museum offers insight into the World War II events that shaped the area. Additionally, the Narvikfjellet Cable Car provides panoramic views of the city and its surrounding fjords and mountains. 

Itinerary highlights

But perhaps the standout highlight of this itinerary is the journey itself on a trio of Norway’s most spectacular railways: Flåm, Rauma, and Ofotbanen. The Flåm Railway, an engineering marvel and Europe’s steepest rail line, treats travelers to a descent of 2,828 feet to the fjord below.

Meanwhile, the Rauma Railway offers an unrivaled passage through the dramatic Romsdalen valley, and the Ofotbanen Arctic Train is a unique marvel fully above the Arctic Circle presenting panoramic views of towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. 

Luxurious and authentic accommodations range from boutique hotels that overlook the commanding Hardangerjøkulen glacier to the cozy embrace of a traditional fisherman’s cabin. In 2024, guests can also opt to stay at the brand new Basecamp Narvik in the Narvikfjellet Mountains. 

This enhanced 15-night itinerary invites discerning travelers to embark on an immersive adventure through Norway’s captivating Northern landscapes, unveiling hidden gems and rich cultural experiences along the way. Up Norway provides effortless travel experiences every step of the journey over dates of one’s choosing. Guests are provided with a comprehensive pre-trip digital guide filled with insider tips and recommendations, all travel details, and a 24-hour direct chat to access the Up Norway team with any questions. 

The 15-night Arctic Circle Express with Lofoten and Narvik starts at $6,587 USD per person for a couple. Without the extension, the 11-night Arctic Circle Express Journey starts at $4,639 USD per person. For more details about the new extension of the Arctic Circle Express Itinerary, visit https://upnorway.com/journeys/hop-on-the-arctic-circle-express-train. 

Exciting new updates unveiled at Atlantis Paradise Island

August 28, 2023 No Comments

Throughout 2023, Atlantis Paradise Island continues to roll out bold multimillion-dollar renovations and exciting new offerings throughout the resort – from new dining experiences to a reimagined Atlantis Casino and much more.

The resort’s 25th anniversary launches a new chapter for the celebrated destination, ensuring that travelers will continue to experience the best at Atlantis Paradise Island, with stunning accommodations, innovative cuisine, and extraordinary experiences.

New dining experiences

Shake Shack, the elevated fine casual brand is known best for its delicious, made-to-order Angus beef burgers, crispy chicken, hot dogs, hand-spun milkshakes, house-made lemonades and more recently opened its first resort location at Atlantis Paradise Island and The Bahamas’ first Shake Shack.

The Bahamas location features exclusive new menu items only available at Shake Shack Atlantis, a full 360-degree hexagon-shaped bar, and stunning floor-to-ceiling glass walls that offer up-close views of Atlantis’ The Dig aquarium – making Shake Shack Atlantis one of the must-visit destinations in the Bahamas.

Paranza, an exciting new restaurant that debuted this summer at The Cove, offers Italian regional cuisine with a  focus on seafood. From delicate crudos to opulent pasta dishes, from exquisitely grilled whole fish to caviar, Paranza promises artistry on every plate and with every bite.

Silan is a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant by James Beard Foundation Award-winning Chef Alon Shaya that opens this fall and will be located on the casino floor. Dishes will incorporate ingredients local to The Bahamas.

Scavenger hunt

The Atlantis Scavenger Hunt invites guests on an engaging journey, introducing them to some of the most exciting, adventure-filled spots around paradise.

Guests can unravel mysteries, create cherished memories, and unlock an experience that provides a sense of awe and accomplishment while exploring Atlantis. Scavenger Hunt locations include The Dig, Dolphin Cay, Leap of Faith, Marina Village, The Rope Swing, and more. Guests are encouraged to download the official Atlantis App to participate in the fun-filled hunt through the resort.

Casino renovation

The Atlantis Casino is currently undergoing a refresh. Upon entering the Atlantis Casino, guests will notice the enhancement of the Atlantis Casino’s two on-site lounges, an exciting high-limit slots lounge and an expansion of the exclusive gaming salon.

The Atlantis Casino also introduces the lively bar and lounge Bar Sol, offering a perfect perch to take in the excitement on the casino floor, enjoy a pre-or post-dinner drink with live music nightly, or celebrate a big win at the slots.

Complementing Bar Sol is the Atlantis Casino’s Moon Bar – well known for its sleek marine habitat centrepiece behind the bar with moon jellyfish – offers a sophisticated beverage program with classic cocktails, an extensive wine list, draft beer, and a selection of cigars.

Things to do

For 25 years, Atlantis Paradise Island has offered the best in entertainment and immersive experiences for guests and our community. Last year, Atlantis’ tennis centre expanded and now offers three pickleball courts in addition to three tennis courts. Guests can choose to travel with their own paddles or borrow from the Atlantis Pro Shop. Atlantis provides guests both tennis and pickleball lessons with tennis pros and staff.

Luxury expedition ship takes its first voyage

August 25, 2023 No Comments

Seabourn Pursuit, the second ultra-luxury expedition ship for Seabourn, embarked on its first voyage and welcomed its first guests on board on Saturday, August 12, 2023. The ship kicked off its maiden year with an eight-day voyage from Valletta, Malta, to Rome. 

Seabourn Pursuit is the second of two new expedition vessels from Seabourn, the leader in ultra luxury and expedition travel, launched in the past two years. The ship is purpose-built and designed to provide guests who are looking for out of the ordinary experiences combined with life-expanding moments in exquisite, ultra-luxury comfort.

The ship will also offer the many Seabourn amenities and services guests know and cherish, such as the line’s renown fine dining options, entertainment, luxurious suites and personalized, intuitive service by the onboard team. 

 About Seabourn Pursuit

Seabourn Pursuit offers the same luxurious “yacht like” small ship experience that travelers have come to expect from Seabourn, enhanced by world-class equipment that allows the line to offer its widest range of expedition activities led by an expert 24-person expedition team of scientists, scholars, naturalists, and more.

Designed and built for remote, diverse environments to PC6 Polar Class standards, the ship includes a plethora of modern hardware and technology that extends the ship’s global deployment and capabilities. There is close to 30,000 square feet of deck space and special touches at every turn, as well as indoor and outdoor guest areas with nearly 270-degree views.

In addition, a 4K GSS Cineflex Camera is mounted on the mast of the Constellation Lounge and capable of broadcasting imagery from miles ahead on monitors located throughout the ship and in guest suites. 

 Enhanced connectivity

The ship is also equipped with enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity with SpaceX’s Starlink, providing its expedition guests with faster service, greater connectivity and more reliable Wi-Fi wherever Starlink’s services are available.  

Seabourn Pursuit, like the rest of the ships in the Seabourn fleet, offers an abundance of space and elegance, eight dining facilities serving gourmet cuisine, and luxurious all-suite accommodations, including a pair of two-level Wintergarden suites. 

Between August and October, Seabourn Pursuit will sail five voyages in the Mediterranean and on two voyages across the Atlantic and through the Caribbean. On October 10, 2023, the ship will arrive in Barbados to begin its expedition journeys, taking guests to remote corners of the globe. Seabourn Pursuit will head south for expeditions exploring coastal South America, the Amazon, and Antarctica into late March 2024. 

Following its inaugural Antarctic season, the ship will head across the islands of the South Pacific and eventually to Australia, which will be the start of the line’s first exploration of the Kimberley region in the Northern Territory and Western Australia between June and August 2024.

In addition to the Kimberley, Seabourn Pursuit will visit Papua New Guinea, West Papua, Indonesia, and sail across the South Pacific between Chile and Melanesia between March and October 2024. 

Adults only hotel with 18 bars opens in Costa Mujeres

August 23, 2023 No Comments

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has added the TRS Coral Hotel in Costa Mujeres to the Registry Collection Hotels brand portfolio.

The hotel, which is operated by Palladium Hotel Group, is located in Quintana Roo, north of the Yucatan peninsula, one of the most recognized areas of the Mexican Caribbean known for its white sand beaches and turquoise water, along with its proximity to natural reserves and cultural attractions.

About TRS Coral Hotel

TRS Coral Hotel, a Registry Collection Hotel, is an all-inclusive, adults-only destination with each building equipped with an energy saving system built with sustainability in mind.

The hotel features 469 luxury suites with a furnished balcony or terrace, and offers guests direct access to the beach, an exclusive pool, gym and a private beach club. Guests can also enjoy the Zentropia Palladium Wellness & Spa, a space dedicated to relaxation and wellness. The spa is equipped with service booths, a magnificent thermal area, and therapists specializing in all types of beauty treatments. 

TRS Coral Hotel also offers spectacular cuisine across its 18 bars, five exclusive à la carte restaurants with five-star service, two international buffet restaurants, an Italian Mediterranean restaurant, a steakhouse, and three Asian restaurants, as well as a 24-hour sports bar and the “Chic Cabaret & Restaurant”, a space where gastronomy and entertainment share the stage. 

For sports-lovers, the hotel boasts the first “Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre” in the world, with a museum which holds official replicas of 4 Grand Slam trophies, Masters 1000 Trophies and the Davis Cup that was won in 2008.

The sports complex, listed by fans as “The New Paradise of Tennis”, has 8 tennis courts (4 outdoor and 4 indoor), a football field, a paddle court, a shop with sports products and a bar-cafeteria.

Family-friendly safari company adds exciting new trips

August 21, 2023 No Comments

Extraordinary Journeys, a tour operator and safari specialist, has unveiled a diverse array of new family-forward safari experiences tailored for all age groups across its African destinations.

While Extraordinary Journeys recommends South Africa, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Zambia, and Botswana as wonderful family safari destinations, as of recently, Kenya and Tanzania have become more accessible to families thanks to new and improved accommodations and experiences by top safari camps and lodges that are tailored to little ones.

Extraordinary Journeys has the insider intelligence and expertise to know precisely which camps are best for the type of family adventure travellers want to experience.

Explore Tanzania & Kenya

In Tanzania and Kenya specifically, Extraordinary Journeys’ family itineraries feature new safari sites that have moved on from the old standard of tents with extra beds and now give families exclusive use of their own “camp within the camp.”

The private sites sport amenities such as private guides, dining spaces, fire pits, and a private or additional shared pool, giving families a larger area to spread out, breathe, and connect. Whether roasting marshmallows and stargazing with the kids or enjoying a drink on the deck while the kids are safely asleep nearby, these new luxury suites offer families increased options and ease.

In addition to game drives, family safaris offer many other experiences for children to enjoy including bush walks to look for tracks, horseback or camel riding, local village visits, cooking with the camp’s Chef, hanging out near a waterhole (where the wildlife comes to you!), helicopter safaris, young explorers programs, and more.

For more information and to book your own safari, visit extraordinaryjourneys.com.

All-inclusive resort in Mexico adds aqua jungle experience

August 18, 2023 No Comments

Delta Hotels by Marriott Riviera Nayarit recently unveiled the Aqua Jungle & River experience as well as an additional rooms and suites tower.

The hotel is one of the 31 properties in the All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy hotel portfolio in the Caribbean and Latin America. 

Located in the hotel’s own forest canyon, the Aqua Jungle & River experience offers members an all-encompassing immersion in the surrounding jungle landscape with adult and family offerings. With five jacuzzis, a total of seven pools, an elongated lazy river and two kid’s areas with waterslides and splash amenities, visitors of all ages will have plenty of options to enjoy this water experience in addition to convenient food and beverage spots.

Inspired by the Tolantongo caves in the state of Hidalgo, where thermal waters cascade to natural pools, the Aqua Jungle & River experience brings that model to the hotel’s epicentre, allowing guests to relax and rejoice in a paradisiac adventure for themselves. 

More than 200 rooms

With the Delta Riviera Nayarit’s expansion, the resort’s footprint increased from 117 to 212 unparalleled rooms and suites featuring mountain views with King or Queen modalities for adaptable comfort and with a design that resembles the Mexican artistry and natural elements of the locale. 

The hotel has three sit-down restaurants on-site featuring Mexican, Asian, and local cuisines, three main pools to offer a total of seven pools, a dedicated beach club just 15 minutes away from the resort, the renowned Tzicuri Spa, among other offerings.

Infused with the local Huichol culture, visitors will find inspiration in the design, architecture, spa treatments, and food and beverage options on the hotel premises for relaxation and a unique wellness retreat. 

Some of the best experiences to have in Slovenia this summer

August 16, 2023 No Comments

If you are thinking about an exciting new travel destination,  Slovenia stands ready.

The summer season is ideal for exploring cultural treasures, embarking Slovenian Coast, indulging in wellness retreats, or savoring exquisite culinary delights. Slovenia’s diverse attractions and warm hospitality will leave lasting memories and a desire to return. 

Do not miss Slovenia’s picturesque coastline, adorned with sun-soaked coastal towns also known for producing wine, olive oil, and salt, or wander amongst the orchards, vineyards, and romantic villages in Brda. Ensure you include a visit to the renowned Lipica Stud Farm, the historic birthplace of the world-famous Lipizzaner horses, listed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the World’s Intangible Heritage.

Explore the cave systems

The captivating Karst region is another must-see. With around 13,000 caves, including the breathtaking Postojna Cave, Europe’s largest cave system, and the UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves, Slovenia is a paradise for cave enthusiasts.

Captivating cities and nature

Charming cities await as well: the capital Ljubljana invites you to wander its scenic streets, while Maribor, the second-largest city, boasts the world’s oldest vine, symbolizing the city’s rich viticultural heritage.

If your heart beats for more into nature, the Pohorje Hills will captivate you with extensive forests, peat bogs, and lakes.

For wine & wellness

For those seeking spa experiences, numerous natural spa resorts like Rogaška Slatina, known for its revered mineral-rich springs, Dobrna Spa with its blend of modern treatments and historic charm, and Terme Olimia Spa with luxurious pools, offer holistic wellness rejuvenating escape.

In the eastern part of Slovenia, the Pomurje region  offers a serene haven with rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint villages. Visit Expano, an interactive pavilion, to explore the region’s wonders through cutting-edge technology, interactive exhibits, and captivating events.

Further south, you can visit Dolenjska and enjoy idyllic moments among vineyards or make unforgettable romantic memories at the charming Otočec Castle.

For outdoor enthusiasts

Lastly, do not overlook Slovenia’s breathtaking outdoors. Dive into the Soča Valley for exhilarating adventures and soak in the natural beauty of Slovenia’s haven for nature lovers.

For inspiration, latest summer stories, and events, visit www.slovenia.info.  

This Canadian airline is now offering direct flights to Lima, Peru

August 14, 2023 No Comments

Air Transat will offer exclusive direct flights to Lima, Peru, from both Montreal and Toronto this winter.

This program expansion will create a new gateway to South America for fans of gastronomy, history and breathtaking natural sites, in addition to the flights already offered to Colombia.

Recently, the company also announced that it will be relaunching its route between Montreal and the tropical island of Cozumel, Mexico.

Toronto departures

Toronto–Lima flights will be operated twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, from December 20 to April 24; in addition, Montreal–Lima flights will be operated once weekly, on Fridays, from December 22 to April 26.

Montreal–Cozumel flights will be operated once weekly, on Fridays, from December 15 to April 26. It should also be noted that Transat offers all-inclusive packages to Cozumel at select hotel partners.

These flights will be operated with new generation Airbus A321LR aircraft featuring spacious cabins, state-of-the-art in-seat entertainment systems and the lowest fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 and NOx) in their class.

Celebrity Cruises adds more itineraries departing Florida

August 11, 2023 No Comments

Celebrity Cruises has unveiled all-new Caribbean offerings for the Winter 2024-2025 season on board four stellar ships – Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Equinox, and Celebrity Summit. 

 

Embarking from three Florida ports: Central Florida’s Port Canaveral, West Florida’s Port Tampa Bay, and South Florida’s Port Everglades, travellers will enjoy more than 40 new itineraries, all open for booking on August 22, 2023. 

Catering to the diverse needs of today’s consumer, the new program offers a wide range of experiences, from rejuvenating quick getaways to weekly 7-night cruises, and up to 9-night escapes. Transporting guests to tropical hotspots from Belize and Bimini to Grand Cayman and San Juan, a select number of itineraries also offer the opportunity to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Celebrity Comes to Port Canaveral

 

For the first time ever, Celebrity Cruises will sail out of Orlando’s Port Canaveral with 20 new itineraries, from November 21, 2024, to April 19, 2025, on board the intimate Celebrity Equinox. With most itineraries spanning 7-nights, travellers will have the opportunity to visit highly sought-after Caribbean destinations like the Bahamas, Belize, Grand Cayman, Mexico, San Juan, and St. Maarten. 

 

Just in time for the Spring Break season, two sailings on March 1 and March 15, 2025, will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Independent hotel brand adds more stunning properties to global portfolio

August 9, 2023 No Comments

Preferred Hotels and Resorts has added 14 new member properties — including five openings — to its portfolio between April 1 and June 30.

The largest independent hotel brand representing more than 650 hotels, resorts, and residences across 80 countries has added properties like Pulso Hotel, a new design-centric boutique in central São Paulo, and Hotel Saint, an urban retreat in London’s financial district.

Here’s a look at some of the new additions:

The Hotel Maria (Helsinki, Finland) – Legend Collection: This ultra-luxurious property will redefine modern Nordic hospitality in Helsinki when it launches in December. Made up of four buildings built between 1885 and 1930, The Hotel Maria will feature 117 best-in-class guestrooms and 38 suites – twice as big as the average in Finland – and The Maria Wellness Club with a separate spa and deluxe fitness centre. 

Pulso Hotel (São Paulo, Brazil) – L.V.X. Collection: Set to debut next month in São Paulo’s financial district, the ultra-modern Pulso Hotel will offer 57 stylish guestrooms and suites offering stunning city views and a range of elevated amenities, including a Parisian-Brazilian fusion restaurant, L’Occitane au Brésil SPA, heated pool, gym and wellness centre.

Hotel Saint (London, U.K.) – Lifestyle Collection: Set within London’s financial district, and in the original square mile of the city founded nearly 2,000 years ago, Hotel Saint is conveniently located just steps from the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and other iconic city landmarks. The hotel is comprised of 267 contemporary guestrooms and suites, many with skyline views. Guests benefit from an array of on-site amenities including a rooftop bar on the 14th floor offering craft cocktails and picture-perfect skyline views; a gym outfitted with best-in-class cardio and resistance equipment; and VQ restaurant serving traditional British dishes.

Wynn Palace Cotai (Macau, China) – Legend Collection: Located in Cotai, the 28-story luxury hotel presents the architectural grandeur of a palace, with 1,706 exquisitely furnished rooms, suites, and villas. The property is home to five award-winning signature restaurants, nine casual restaurants and a bar. Additional highlights include a unique SkyCab above the Performance Lake; meeting and convention venues; the tranquil Spa at Wynn Palace; and Wynn Esplanade, showcasing the world’s leading luxury retail brands.

EPIC SANA Marquês Hotel (Lisbon, Portugal) – L.V.X. Collection: Perched in the picturesque hills of Lisbon and centrally located next to Marquês de Pombal Square, EPIC SANA Marquês offers 341 rooms, 37 suites, one presidential suite, and stunning views over the city’s historic architecture. The trendy boutique hotel features multiple dining options and amenities, including three restaurants, two bars, and bakery, a 7,534 square-foot AYANNA Wellness & Spa, and Sky Pool Lounge.

Other member properties  include: