December 2023 - OFFSHORE

New Swiss hotel has a stunning mountain backdrop and more

December 29, 2023 No Comments

Located in the heart of Davos, and against the backdrop of the majestic “Magic Mountain”, Hotel Flüela Davos is one of the newest luxury hotels by Hyatt’s Unbound Collection.

Hotel Flüela Davos joins three existing Hyatt hotels in Switzerland and signals Hyatt’s continued commitment to growing its luxury brands in sought-after destinations in Europe.

The hotel itself is a story-worthy symbol of Swiss heritage. Built at a time when stagecoaches were the primary mode of travel for merchants and postal services, Hotel Flüela extended its hospitality to weary travelers – a tradition that endures to this day.

For 155 years, this cherished landmark has been an essential part of Davos’ journey from a secluded Alpine village to a world-renowned mountainside health resort and spa town, and eventually to a thriving global hub for business and leisure.

Today, Hotel Flüela Davos offers worldly independent travelers Swiss Alpine comfort in a captivating luxury setting.

An alpine sanctuary

Adorned with sophistication, the 51 rooms and suites provide guests with an alpine sanctuary surrounded by warm winter tones.

Guests can enjoy their stay 5,118 feet (1,560 meters) above sea level, in rooms that offer premium amenities including a state-of-the-art private ski locker, access to the Flüela Soul Spa, a ski butler and a discount on ski rental equipment.

The hotel also has 5,220 square feet (485 square meters) of meeting space, thoughtfully designed to inspire creativity and foster productive discussions, while offering stunning views of the surrounding panorama and the vibrant streets of Davos. It is conveniently located just over a mile (2 km) away from the Davos Conference Centre, home to the renowned World Economic Forum, becoming the ideal hub for professionals seeking an immersive experience in complete luxury.

Guests can step away from the hustle and bustle of the city in the hotel’s wellness area, which features two saunas, two steam rooms, a relaxation room, two treatment rooms, an indoor swimming pool and an outdoor hot tub.

The ultimate way to unwind after a day of winter sports, guests of the hotel will also receive complimentary access to the spa, which includes a new gym with the latest technology and equipment.

For more information on Hotel Flüela Davos, visit www.hyatt.com.

Futuristic hotel opens in the middle of the Saudi Arabian desert

December 27, 2023 No Comments

The Board of Directors of NEOM, the sustainable regional development taking shape in northwest Saudi Arabia, recently announced Epicon, its latest luxury coastal tourism destination, including a residential offering.

Located on the Gulf of Aqaba, Epicon aims to set a new standard of hospitality and architecture. Rising from NEOM’s desert landscape like a glistening mirage, the property will feature two striking towers, one 225 meters tall and one reaching 275 meters.

The towers will be home to an ultra-premium 41 key hotel and luxury residences that comprise of 14 suites and apartments. A short distance from the hotel is the Epicon resort, which blends tranquility with indulgence and features 120 rooms and 45 stunning residential beach villas.

A gateway to the future

Designed as a gateway to the future, Epicon provides an opportunity to escape the stresses of the everyday.

Whether relaxing at the beach club, visiting the spa for bespoke wellness treatments, exploring the surrounding nature, participating in one of the many watersports on offer, or dining at destination restaurants for an unforgettable culinary experience, Epicon has been conceived to meet the full array of guest and resident needs.

The guest experience

A highly attractive visitor destination and an optimum place to live and thrive, Epicon’s guests and residents can expect a truly immersive and life-affirming experience. The luxurious residences and beach villas aim to deliver new levels of livability through cutting-edge innovations, world-class services and first-class experiences, positioning the resort as a benchmark for iconic living.

Guests and residents of Epicon will enjoy unrestricted access to world-class facilities, complemented by views of one of the most desirable shorelines in NEOM. Amenities include a state-of-the-art gym, library, workspaces, pools and lounges.

580 hotel restaurants take eel off the menu to prevent its extinction

December 22, 2023 No Comments

The members of Relais & Châteaux’s World Culinary Council have voted to immediately remove eel from their own menus and are sending a call to action to the rest of the group’s 580 hotels and restaurants to do the same.

The move comes after its NGO partner, Ethic Ocean, launched an alert that public authorities must urgently listen to scientists who recommend suspending European eel fishing.

The European eel (Anguilla anguilla), which is featured in menus all over the world–and revered in certain French, Spanish, Belgian, Dutch and Japanese culinary cultures–is considered critically endangered and features on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red Listof Threatened Species.

Over the last 20 years, European scientists from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) have been warning about all the causes of the alarming decline of this species–but for the last three years, they have recommended suspending fishing.

A fishy dilemma

The 21 Relais & Châteaux chefs elected to the Association’s World Culinary Council gathered in October and voted to approve an immediate ban of European eel from its menus.

“Chefs have a critical role to play: we can stop the demand. We have a chance to protect eels from becoming extinct, and of preserving biodiversity to allow future generations to continue to enjoy them, but only if we act now. As the world’s largest network of chefs, Relais & Châteaux hopes to save this species.” —Mauro Colagreco, vice-president, Chefs of Relais & Châteaux

In partnership with Ethic Ocean, Relais & Châteaux calls on the 27 European Union ministers to hear this chef mobilization and scientific recommendation in order to take the necessary measures this December to safeguard this species.

The European eel species suffers from numerous challenges including water pollution (particularly rivers), habitat destruction, dams that impede their biological cycle and illegal fishing, which has created a black market, fetching up to €5,000 per kilo.

Eels are the only fish that are targeted at their juvenile stage, on top of the fact that it takes them a long time to reach reproductive maturity.

These are the top 10 places to go in 2024

December 20, 2023 No Comments

With more people looking to travel to “traditional” destinations in a new way —think giving back, or exploring local cultures and making deeper connections— G Adventures has listed the most popular spots for 2024.

G Adventures’ founder, Bruce Poon Tip, says travellers have changed over the past three years and are now looking for deeper, more meaningful experiences. He notes that while they may be travelling less frequently, they’re staying longer in a single destination. “While they are there they want to connect with local people and their cultures, and to experience community tourism in its purest form,” Poon Tip says.

“We’re also still seeing a lot of travellers checking off those big ‘bucket list’ trips, with many making up for lost time, and they’re keen to stay active when they travel – that’s why we’re seeing such huge growth in some of our most iconic locations,” he added.

Where to go in 2024

Packed with the best destinations travellers can enjoy in 2024, the Where To Travel list focuses not just on meaningful community tourism experiences, but also places which have new and noteworthy reasons to visit.

Travellers can’t get enough of Japan since it reopened, with the land of the rising sun also seeing rising bookings. G Adventures reports a 134 per cent increase in bookings for 2024, and this trend is set to continue with the launch of the small group adventure operator’s Geluxe Collection of premium active trips.

The new Japan itinerary includes hiking the remote Michinoku Coastal Trail, which was constructed after the tsunami to bring community tourism back to Iwate. G Adventures is the first major operator to offer this hike.

GET THERE: G Adventures’ Japan: Kyoto, Tokyo & the Michinoku Coastal Trail trip is priced from $10,299pp for an 11-day trip from Tokyo to Kyoto. Travellers will discover villages outside Kyoto by foot, as well as hiking up to the Unotori shrine in Fudai, Iwate, to witness a unique cultural performance that has all but died out in other parts of Japan.

The numbers don’t lie. Portugal has seen stand-out growth with traveller numbers tripling since 2019 and up 33 per cent compared to 2022. Affordable and accessible, with fantastic food, culture and history, there are plenty of reasons to want to visit this European gem.

New direct flights to Porto from Toronto with Azores Airlines will also give travellers more options to get there from summer 2024. We say go before it gets even more popular, as its star looks set to continue to rise.

GET THERE: G Adventures’ Highlights of Portugal itinerary is priced from $1,749pp for a seven-day trip from Lisbon to Porto. On this trip, travellers will sit down to a traditional meal to the sound of a Fado performance by Portuguese folk music artists in one of Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhoods, and immerse themselves in history and culture at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Monastery of Batalha, Coimbra University, and the picturesque town of Sintra.

Uzbekistan and the ‘Stans in general – have become quite the hotspot as people look to check off big ‘bucket list’ destinations and get further afield to lesser-known countries. Uzbekistan has seen a 53 per cent increase year over year, also usurping 2019 by 16 percent.

The stunning Center for Islamic Civilization in Tashkent is set to open its doors in April 2024, and joins the Center for Contemporary Arts, which was opened in 2019, as two new cultural hubs set to attract the attention of travellers.

GET THERE: G Adventures’ Highlights of Uzbekistan trip is priced from $2,179pp for a 10-day trip from Tashkent return. During the trip, travellers will head out into the desert to visit Chashma Complex, a pilgrimage site in the territory of Nurata, dominated by ruins of Alexander the Great’s fortress, visit the remote Aydarkul Lake for a swim before continuing on for an overnight stay in a local yurt camp, where they enjoy an authentic Uzbekistan dinner and an evening Kazakh singing show.

India has picked up the pace in the past year with bookings doubling between 2022 and 2023. G Adventures partnership with National Geographic means exclusive experiences are built into every itinerary. Canadian travellers have had their visas restored, so expect numbers to increase as India continues its return to pre-pandemic prowess.

GET THERE: A National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures North India Highlights trip is priced from $2,179 per person from Delhi return. In Jaipur, known as the “Pink City,” travellers will meet with a local historian and sociology scholar to learn about India’s complex social fabric and traditions, and discuss a range of topics from the country’s belief systems to its architecture.

Vibrant and colourful Mexico has proven more popular than pre-pandemic, helped by the introduction of new trips to the G Adventures portfolio.These include two new Geluxe Collection premium active itineraries, which put a fresh active spin on what has been seen as a more traditional ‘beach’ destination. Up 24 per cent than in 2019, and 28 per cent when compared to last year, Mexico continues to make consistent gains.

GET THERE: A 14-day Mexico: Central Mexico & the Yucatan Peninsula trip is priced from $7,849pp, travelling from Oaxaca to Tulum. Travellers will wander the cobblestone streets and markets of Oaxaca and devour mole in Puebla, before biking through agave fields and taking a break from the heat with a swim in a jungle sinkhole near Merida.

Another country that was late to reopen but has doubled its traveller numbers since 2022 is Vietnam, which is also a great value choice for families looking for adventure on their next trip. With tasty food, beautiful sights and friendly people, it makes a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about a different culture in a fun and engaging way.

GET THERE: A 12-day Vietnam Family Adventure is priced from $2,019 per adult and $1,799 per child, travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. This trip visits Oodles of Noodles, a G for Good project supporting former street youth where travellers help prepare and cook a number of different types of noodles.

As travellers have started flocking back to Europe, Greece has seen huge growth, up 90 per cent from 2019 numbers and 24 per cent year on year. One of the best ways to avoid the crowds and get amongst it with locals, is by boat.

Taking travellers to remote islands to enjoy local cuisine and culture, G Adventures’ Sailing programme epitomizes community tourism, making sure wealth is distributed to lesser-known locales while still taking in the highlights of the islands.

GET THERE: A 10-day Sailing Greece – Santorini to Santorini trip is priced from $2,499 per person, travelling from Santorini return. On-shore experiences include strolling through the markets of Syros, uncovering the beauty of the Venetian ruins in Paros hiking through the trails and paths of Sifnos.

Thailand also continues its epic comeback, and we can expect it to boom even more as travellers head there before the ‘White Lotus Effect’ takes hold, with filming for the third season set to begin in 2024. Up 76 per cent in traveller numbers year on year, Thailand is still a solid choice for young travellers and backpackers looking for an affordable escape.

GET THERE: The Bangkok to Hanoi: Chiang Mai, Night Markets & Streetside Bars Roamies trip in partnership with Hostelworld is priced from $1,199pp for a nine day trip from Bangkok to Hanoi. This trip includes a visit to Yimsoo Cafe in Bangkok that offers training and economic opportunities for people living with disabilities.

With Asia trending since its reopening, South Korea has also proven a welcome surprise in terms of its popularity, with numbers doubling in 2023 compared to 2019. Helped by popular culture – K-Pop and K-dramas – South Korea also offers a wealth of traditional culture, incredible food, and exciting experiences for travellers.

GET THERE: An eight-day Best of South Korea trip is priced from $3,449 per person, travelling from Seoul return. Travellers will see the highlights in and around Seoul plus visit folk villages, unique Korean temples, and the bustling markets of Busan, as well as learning about the sombre history of North and South Korea and taking an excursion to the Demilitarized Zone separating the two.

Another popular post-Covid destination is Italy, which is up 30 per cent from 2019 numbers, and 24 per cent year on year. With travellers looking to head to their dream destinations, it makes sense that perennial favourite Italy would be high on everyone’s lists. With G Adventures’ Local Living programme, travellers are taken off the road most travelled to really experience what it is like to live like a local.

GET THERE: An eight-day Local Living Italy—Amalfi Coast trip is priced from $2,699 per person, travelling from Naples return. On this trip, travellers live like one of the region’s locals, discovering the small towns, mountain trails, and local customs of this uniquely beautiful place, tucking into bed at a converted 17th-century monastery home base.

For more information on G Adventures, please visit www.gadventures.com.

Accor is opening more than 85 stunning hotels in 2024

December 18, 2023 No Comments

Accor is opening the doors to an impressive collection of exciting new hospitality options across its spectrum of 40+ hospitality brands around the world.

Travellers of all ambitions, aesthetics, and demographics are sure to find a fascinating new place to visit in 2024.

With its global network and ‘multi-local’ ethos, Accor’s newest destinations are expected to become as popular with locals as they are with international jetsetters. The following is a glimpse into what Accor has in store for 2024.

Luxury hotels opening in 2024

Orient Express Grand Hotel de la Minerve

A heritage site in the heart of Rome, the hotel resides in the former Palazzo Fonseca, a sumptuous 17^th century palace with a huge and majestic façade. Opening late 2024.

Raffles Jaipur

With just 50 suites, all with private pools, the majestic hotel features a sense of old world charm with secluded residences and elegant courtyards, linking into the sprawling estate shared with Fairmont Jaipur. Opening mid 2024.

Raffles Sentosa Resort & Spa

This property is an all-villa beachfront property on Sentosa Island, close to Singapore. Each of the 62 villas features a private pool with terrace, peace, and seclusion. Beyond the villas, guests will discover a bespoke bar, restaurants, spa and fitness centre, a multi-purpose celebration room, state-of-the-art meeting spaces, and a grand ballroom. Opening mid 2024.

Fairmont Golden Prague

Guests will love basking in the hotel’s modern spa with indoor and outdoor pools, noshing among its multiple restaurants and bars, and dancing the night away in the hotel’s grand ballroom. Opening late 2024.

Fairmont The Breakers, Long Beach

A revival of one of California’s best-known and beloved luxury hotels, the historic property will reopen after a significant restoration, creating 185 boutique rooms and suites; a rooftop pool and terrace; an open-air rooftop lounge with 360-degree views of the Pacific; a blissful two-story spa and more. Re-opening mid 2024.

Sofitel Shanghai North Bund

A stunning 25-story landmark hotel, featuring 300 opulent guest rooms and suites with outstanding views of the famous Shanghai skyline, Club Millésime, a Sofitel Spa and an ultramodern Sofitel fitness gym. Opening mid 2024.

Gigiri Gem Forest Hotel Nairobi – MGallery

This flagship hotel in Kenya is a sophisticated and comfortable haven, a multifaceted jewel, worthy of welcoming international dignitaries and UN ambassadors. MGallery layers in a hospitality experience that blends style with the substance of arts, culture and history, food and drinks that enliven the senses, and services that invoke a sense of wellbeing. Opening early 2024.

Lifestyle hotels opening in 2024

The following hotels will open under Accor’s lifestyle hotel portfolio:

25hours Hotel The Oddbird, Jakarta

At a place where the city is overtaken by Indonesia’s jungle, its distinctive design is an urban sanctuary full of contrasts, collisions, and a total of 345 rooms, including hotel and serviced residences. Opening early 2024.

Hyde London City

Set in a Grade II listed heritage property, the design of the seven-story, 111-room hotel pays homage to the building’s storied past. Progressive cultural programming informed by collaborations with some of the city’s most exciting chefs, creatives, and musicians will ensure that Hyde London City brings an entirely new perspective to this historic corner of the capital. Opening early 2024.

Hyde Perth

The first Hyde hotel to open in Australia, the property will offer 120 bohemian chic rooms, innovative dining concepts that present a global table of flavours, and a playful beach club. Opening late 2024.

JO&JOE Budapest

JO&JOE will have 390 beds in a variety of dorm-style shared rooms and bathrooms and private rooms with ensuite, with a lively restaurant, bar, rooftop, courtyard garden, and meeting spaces. Central social areas will draw guests in for engaging and immersive experiences like rentable pop-ups, exhibitions, events and DJ nights. Opening late 2024.

Mama Shelter Dubai Business Bay

Mama Shelter Dubai will be a highly alluring gem in the desert. Mosaic steps, colourful walls and eccentric hanging decorations brighten up every corner of this hotel, with 197 rooms and 204 apartment residences. Opening late 2024.

SLS Barcelona

The first destination for the brand in Europe, and the only five-star hotel in the city to feature a terrace off every one of the 471 guestrooms. Opening mid 2024.

The Hoxton, Vienna

Located in a 1950’s building, the hotel has 196 bedrooms, a spacious lobby and coffee bar, a restaurant and terrace, rooftop bar and pool and a basement speakeasy. Opening early 2024.

Rixos Obhur Jeddah

The resort will feature a private beach and 247 guest units, including 174 rooms and 73 villas with private pools, a Club Privé lounge, a fine-dining restaurant, a lounge bar, and two speciality beach restaurants. Opening late 2024.

Premium and economy hotels opening in 2024

The following Premium hotels from Accor will debut in 2024:

Pullman Taizhou Xianju
Mövenpick Wroclaw, Poland
Mövenpick Hotel Jakarta City Centre
Swissôtel Marianske Lazne Resort & Spa, Czech Republic

The following Economy hotels will open from Accor in 2024:

Hotel & Spa Fort Saint Laurent Lyon, France – Handwritten Collection
Handwritten Collection (Paris, France, name TBD)
Novotel Nara, Japan
Novotel Valencia, Spain
Novotel Tbilisi Center, Georgia
Novotel & ibis Styles Hamburg HafenCity
Mercure Portile de Fier Riviera, Romania
TRIBE Düsseldorf, Germany
TRIBE Milano Malpensa
ibis Styles Resort Maragogi

Additional key hotel openings for 2024

LUXURY

Fairmont La Hacienda, Costa Del Sol, Spain
Sofitel Cotonou Benin Marina, Benin
Sofitel Riyadh
Baron Amédée Armand Hotel & Spa, Marseille –
MGallery, France
Hotel Sosei Sapporo – MGallery, Japan
Sanssouci Karpacz Hotel & Spa – MGallery, Poland
Domaine du Liziec Vannes – MGallery, France
Hotel Szczecin – MGallery, Poland
Hotel Chengdu – MGallery, China
Hotel Shenzhen Dalang – MGallery, China
Hotel Nanjing Tian’an Changjiang 100 – MGallery, China
Hotel Wuxi Dangkou Ancient Town – MGallery, China

ENNISMORE – LIFESTYLE

25hours Hotel Paper Island, Copenhagen
Hyde Bodrum, Turkey
JO&JOE Hangzhou Wulinmen, China
JO&JOE Shaoguan, China
JO&JOE Lanzhou, China
Mama Shelter Nice
The Hoxton, Edinburgh, Scotland
Rixos Golden Horn Istanbul, Turkey

PREMIUM, MIDSCALE & ECONOMY

Pullman Kolašin Breza, Montenegro
Pullman Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Pullman Manila at Primex Towner, The Philippines
Pullman Hai Phong Grand Hotel, Vietnam
Pullman Guizhou Renhuai Chuangmeng, China
Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers, Doha, Qatar
Swissôtel Living & Residences Antalya, Turkey
Mövenpick Living İstanbul Saklıvadi, Turkey
Mövenpick Mondello Palace, Italy
Grand Mercure Wuxi Huishan, China
Grand Mercure Changzhou Luoxi, China
Peppers Gladstone, Australia
Square Lodge Hotel La Roche-sur-Yon – Handwritten Collection, France
Novotel Hamburg Central Station, Germany
Novotel Bomonti, Turkey
Novotel Phnom Penh BKK 1, Cambodia
Novotel Sihanoukville Holiday Resort, Cambodia
Novotel Goa Panjim, India
Novotel New Delhi City Centre, India
Novotel Riyadh Sahafa, Saudi Arabia
Novotel & Adagio Rouen, France
Novotel & ibis Styles Melbourne Airport, Australia
Novotel Recife Marina, Brazil
Novotel Living Chengdu Tianfu, China
Novotel Nanjing Airport, China
Mercure Bangkok Surawong, Thailand
Mercure Chandigarh, India
Mercure Lucknow Ekana Sportz City, India
Adagio Chengdu Jiantou, China
Adagio Abidjan Marcory, Ivory Coast
TRIBE Clichy, France
TRIBE Pantin, France
TRIBE Riga, Latvia
TRIBE Auckland Fort Street, New Zealand
ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, The Philippines
ibis Styles Villejuif, France
ibis Styles Serpong BSD City, Indonesia

Textured cocktails and flavoured salts are next top culinary trends

December 15, 2023 No Comments

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury & lifestyle portfolio, is returning with its annual Culinary + Cocktail Trend Forecast, highlighting predictions from its vast team of global culinary and beverage experts that will be featured on plates and bar menus in 2024.

From global salts and seacuterie, to textured cocktails and umami flavors, Kimpton is forecasting both new and evolving trends that will further enhance the dining experience.

Kicking off in December 2023 and continuing throughout 2024, guests will have the opportunity to experience many of these trends at Kimpton restaurants and bars across the globe.

2024 culinary trends

Salt with a story

While salt is one of the most common ingredients in cooking, expect to see a noticeable shift to unrefined salts (Black Hawaiian Salt, Kala Namak, Persian Blue Salt, Celtic Salt, Fleur de Sel) as consumers move away from table salt staples in search of something far more unique to add to their favorite dishes.

Sourcing will also be a priority for many chefs, working with global salt producers to identify salts from around the world and understand their history and use cases.

Tinned fish and “seacuterie”

In the last year, luxury tinned fish sales have soared as people embrace seafood’s diverse range of flavors and sustainable practices.

Expect to see more unique conservas on charcuterie boards as well as dedicated ‘seacuterie’ boards including samplings of luxury canned fish like Spanish sardines in olive oil, habanero smoked oysters, and Maine eel smoked in alderwood packed in California olive oil.

Cabbage is king

Cabbage will take over plates as culinary professionals and consumers alike turn to the cruciferous vegetable for its versatility, taste and texture.

Both well-known varieties such as Napa, Savoy and Red Cabbage and the more coveted Caraflex or Conehead cabbage will be showcased in a multitude of ways on menus including charred, fermented, roasted, braised, and even caramelized.

Creative dry-aging

The technique of dry aging has grown in popularity and is increasingly sought after by consumers. Leveraging the proper equipment, dry aging provides enhanced control of texture, adds depth of flavour and complexity to elevate any dish.

With dry aging, chefs are able to push beyond beef into more interesting dishes with duck, lamb and fin fish. Vegetables like beets and carrots are being dry aged with koji to create a charcuterie-like texture and flavor.

Even spirits like bourbon and gin are being treated with dry aging techniques to take cocktails to the next level.

Pastry makes a comeback

Consumers are saving room for dessert as chefs roll out inventive confections.

Kimpton is particularly seeing a rise in Asian and French influences for the sweetest course.

Guests can expect to see a rise in sweet and savoury combinations, such as carrot mochi and chocolate smoked salt croissants with alternate sugars like date-based sugar, beet sugar and coconut sugar growing more prominent.

2024 cocktail trends

Along with food trends, Kimpton has released the following predictions for cocktail offerings in 2024:

Textured cocktails for the senses

Rose and pistachio dust, dragon fruit crisp and edible helium bubble clouds are some of the sensory ingredients diners will soon find on bar menus in 2024 to add texture and visual appeal to the liquid base.

A new wave of umami

Kimpton bar leaders predict more experimentation with different types of fat washing as a new way to create smooth, creamy and velvety undercurrents in spirits rather than more traditional sweet syrups. Expect to find creations like a salmon martini or beverages using unique washing ingredients such as duck confit and spam.

Pantry ingredients featured in cocktails

Bars will incorporate ingredients from the kitchen to up level cocktail and non-alcoholic beverages, including biquinho peppers, salsa macha, soy sauce, fish sauce, whole cacao, black tahini, lion’s mane and sweetened condensed milk as an alternative to more traditional cocktail infusions.

Over-the-top garnishes

From snap peas to using 3D printers, simple garnishes will evolve to elaborate final flourishes that completely transform a cocktail from salty and savory to citrusy and bright in an instant.

Cinnamon revisited

Breaking out of its autumnal shell, the versatility of cinnamon will offer dynamic flavor pairings as a popular additive and bridge to trans-seasonal beverages and dishes, like cinnamon and smoked salt coffee and chica moradas.

Unique Latin American spirits

While tequila, gin and bourbon continue to shine on menus, 2024 will see the rise of Latin American spirits and liquors such as Aguariente, Singani and Cocuy, served within craft cocktails or enjoyed on the rocks.

Seven European Christmas market cruises to try

December 13, 2023 No Comments

With the holidays right around the corner, Viking is celebrating its Christmas market voyages for the 2023 river season.

Sailing Viking’s Longship fleet, guests can celebrate an Old World Christmas on special sailings through the season featuring illuminated Christmas markets, regional holiday specialties, and handmade gifts.

On board Viking’s Longships, guests can find musical performances, tree trimming, and cooking demonstrations as part of their daily programming. With departure dates running late November through December, the Christmas market itineraries explore cities and small towns across Austria, Germany, France, Hungary, and more.

Christmas market itineraries

NEW Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle – New this holiday season is the scenic 12-day cruise tour will have guests browse through stalls full of local delicacies and handicrafts at the charming Christmas markets of Trier, Koblenz and Mannheim and admire the festive seasonal displays in Paris.

NEW Christmas on the Main & Moselle – Also new is this river voyage that will immerse guests in French, German and Czech traditions. Explore Christmas markets in quaint German towns, like Heidelberg and Cochem, sample tasty yuletide dishes in chic Paris, and visit castles and cathedrals that are adorned with festive displays.
Christmas on the Rhine – This 8-day voyage is a joyful celebration of festive cheer. Guests will journey through storybook villages, while sampling tasty yuletide treats and browsing colorful stalls for handcrafted ornaments. They will admire the twinkling lights of Cologne and revel in the merry atmosphere of the Rhine Valley.

Christmas on the Seine –This 8-day voyage will explore Paris, France’s twinkling “City of Light”, sail through the snow-covered landscapes of Normandy’s, and admire the scenes of fairy-tale villages along the way. Onboard festivities include regional dining specialties, seasonal treats, and more to celebrate the holidays.
Christmas on the Danube – Guests will discover medieval towns and quaint villages along the “Blue Danube.” Guests will be able to stroll among the stalls at Budapest’s Christmas market, be immersed in the cheerful atmosphere of Vienna as they shop for handmade decorations and visit the fairy-tale village of Regensburg.

Danube Christmas Delights – Passing through Europe’s most enchanting countries, guests will stop to explore cultural capitals and fairy-tale villages, savor Austro-Hungarian cuisine, admire the Wachau Valley’s beauty, and take part in European holiday traditions.
Christmas Along the Elbe – During this 10-day cruisetour, guests will take part in time-honored European holiday traditions. The itinerary will provide guests the opportunity to revel in Berlin’s festive atmosphere, shop for handmade porcelain in Meissen, and delve into Prague’s Jewish history while its famed Christmas market exudes an abundance of good cheer.

Five incredible spots to charter your own yacht in 2024

December 11, 2023 No Comments

Yacht charters provide a unique form of escapism, offering a holiday experience like no other.

Each day brings a sense of freedom as you wake up aboard your vessel, eager to discover the next destination. With charter companies now offering flexible booking terms, you can plan your 2024 getaway with absolute peace of mind.

Discover the top destinations for yacht charters in 2024, allowing you to plan your next voyage in some of the most sought-after locations around the globe.

Norway

With its breathtaking fjords, abundant wildlife, and numerous islands, Norway is an incredible destination away from crowded tourist spots. For the longest days and ample sunlight, consider visiting from April to July. Explore Norway with the Lagoon 51 Nordvaer on a yacht charter.

Mauritius

Mauritius offers beautiful anchorages, crystal-clear snorkelling spots, unspoilt beaches, and exotic natural beauty. The Nautitech Catamaran is the ideal vessel for exploring the wonders of Mauritius, including safari experiences and spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Indonesia

With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia provides endless opportunities for exploration. From the Pink Beach in Flores to famous dive sites in Raja Ampat, Indonesia offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences and incredible marine life. Sailing on a luxury traditional Indonesian Phinisi allows you to charter and witness the best of Indonesia.

British Virgin Islands

One of the world’s most popular charter bases, the BVI’s are home to sensational cruising grounds and infamous beach bars. With around 60 Caribbean islands, the BVI’s offer ultimate peace and tranquillity, with consistent warm trade winds and clear conditions for a smooth ride. November to March is an ideal time to visit, avoiding hurricane season in September.

Pula, Croatia

A favourite holiday spot for European royalty and aristocracy, Pula in Croatia is a must-see destination. The region of Istria, known for its wine, offers wine-tasting experiences and sensational seafood restaurants. Explore the Brijuni National Park and enjoy excellent sailing in this northern corner of the Dalmatian Coast.

Hyatt Hotels is adding 35 luxury hotels for 2025

December 8, 2023 No Comments

Hyatt Hotels has plans to open 35 luxury hotels and resorts globally through 2025 across the Park Hyatt, Grand Hyatt, Miraval, Alila, Andaz, Thompson Hotels, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brands, as well as Inclusive Collection brands Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts and Dreams Resorts & Spas.

Hyatt has doubled the number of luxury rooms, tripled the number of resort rooms, and quadrupled the number of lifestyle rooms in only five years.

With 70 per cent of its rooms categorized as luxury and upper upscale, the Hyatt portfolio has grown to meet increased demands for luxury and resort accommodations while upholding consistent, top-tier quality, personalized experiences, and bespoke service.

Keeping up with tourist demand

Travel and tourism are expected to increase by approximately 12 per cent of global GDP by 2033 according to a recent World Travel & Tourism Council report.

In turn, Hyatt’s luxury portfolio is expanding to meet that demand in new international markets.

This includes the debut of Park Hyatt hotels in the U.K., Mexico, and Malaysia; the Thompson Hotel brand’s expansion in Europe with the first properties in Austria and Italy; the Andaz brand’s growth in the Americas with its first hotel in the Caribbean; The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand’s first properties in the Nordics and India; as well as Hyatt luxury growth in the trending destination of Portugal, with the planned openings of Andaz Lisbon and Dreams Madeira Resort, Spa & Marina.

Hyatt hotels coming 2025

The following luxury Hyatt properties will open through 2025:

Timeless Collection

Timeless Collection hotels deliver the comforts of a home away from home with a consistently elevated experience, with exciting openings including:

Park Hyatt
- Park Hyatt Marrakech (early 2024)
- Park Hyatt London River Thames (mid 2024)
- Park Hyatt Los Cabos at Cabo del Sol (2024)
- Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur (mid 2024)
- Park Hyatt Changsha (2024)
- Park Hyatt Johannesburg (2025)
- Park Hyatt Cancun (2025)
- Park Hyatt Phu Quoc (2025)
- Park Hyatt Taipei (2025)
- Grand Hyatt
- Grand Hyatt Kunming (2024)
- Grand Hyatt Mexico City Santa Fe (2025)
- Grand Hyatt Cancun Beach Resort (2025)
- Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Hotel & Residences (2025)
- Grand Hyatt The Red Sea (2025)

Boundless Collection

Boundless Collection hotels that will make their debut and deliver best-in-class offerings and compelling experiences designed to excite and inspire, include:

Miraval
- Miraval, The Red Sea (2025)
Alila
- Alila Shanghai (late 2024)
- Alila Dalit Bay (2025)
- Alila Dongao Island (2025)
Andaz
- Andaz Doha (mid 2024)
- Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht (renovation unveiling mid 2024)
- Andaz Miami Beach (late 2024)
- Andaz Turks & Caicos at Grace Bay (2025)
- Andaz Lisbon (2025)
- Andaz Bangkok (2025)
Thompson Hotels
- Thompson Houston (2024)
- Thompson Palm Springs (2024)
- Thompson South Beach (2024)
- Thompson Vienna (early 2025)
- Thompson Rome (early 2025)
- Thompson Monterrey (2025)
- Thompson Shanghai (2025)

Independent Collection

Independent Collection hotels are all unique – from storied properties and vibrant neighborhood locales to immersive retreats. New openings include:

The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
- Hotel Toranomon Hills (2023)
- Grand Hansa Hotel (2024)
- Noor-Us-Sabah Palace (2025)

Inclusive Collection

Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt, resorts deliver immersive, elevated experiences where everything is seamlessly included, with expected new resorts including:

Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts
- Zoëtry Halkidiki (mid 2024)
Dreams Resorts & Spas
- Dreams Estrella Del Mar Mazatlan (mid 2024)
- Dreams Madeira Resort, Spa & Marina (mid 2024)

For information on Hyatt’s existing brand portfolio, please visit www.hyatt.com.

Experience a winter wonderland at these Fairmont properties

December 6, 2023 No Comments

With the seasons changing and temperatures dropping, it’s time for travellers to prepare their winter itineraries.

From soaking in hot springs in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, to snowshoeing along awe-inspiring frozen lakes in Mont Tremblant, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts offers a variety of winter activities for every vacationer to enjoy.

Fairmont Le Château Montebello (Montebello)

Fairmont Le Château Montebello’s log cabin comes alive for the winter season, offering the best après-ski ambiance.

With 300 acres of surrounding woodland to discover, guests can enjoy the snowy great outdoors and unwind afterward with one of the property’s many spa offerings, including a lyophilized therapeutic sea water bath that is ideal for soothing muscle pain.

Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu (La Malbaie)

Discover the charm of Charlevoix with the resort’s Winter Fun package, offering a curated blend of luxury accommodation and thrilling adventures, from guided snowmobile and dog sledding excursions to a culinary tour of Charlevoix.

With 10 per cent off the daily room rate and $100 credit on unique activities, guests can create their own perfect winter vacation. Wind down or opt out of the winter activities with a Hot Pebble Massage or Valmont Facial Treatment offered at the property’s Moment Spa.

Fairmont Tremblant (Mont-Tremblant)

Fairmont Tremblant is the only hotel in the area offering a complete ski-in, ski-out experience, which guests can enjoy by booking one of the property’s ski packages.

This year, the revitalized outdoor pool terrace will emerge as a modern wellness oasis for hotel guests to enjoy, known for its enviable location adjacent to the slopes with a privileged view of the pedestrian village.

Set to open days before the start of the ski season, the new outdoor pool terrace will expand upon the hotel’s current wellness offerings.

Fairmont Château Whistler (Whistler)

For a true local’s perspective on Whistler’s most sought-after activities, Fairmont Château Whistler offers outings led by the resort’s Whistler Experience Guides.

Guests can enjoy an array of excursions this winter, including aquafit, pilates, two daily yoga classes (pre-ski energizer and après-ski recovery), workshops focused on mobility and ski-specific exercises, and guided outdoor experiences in nature.

Visitors can unwind in the eucalyptus steam rooms, outdoor barrel saunas, indoor dry sauna, outdoor pools and hot tubs.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (Jasper)

Known for its spectacular views, crowd-free runs and laid-back atmosphere, Marmot Basin in Jasper National Parkboasts the highest base elevation of all Canadian ski areas.

Guests can explore the mountain with one of Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge’s ski packages and decompress after a long day with one of the resort’s Après Ski Stretch Classes (included in the property’s daily activities) or the Skier Sole Renewal treatment ($199 CAD), a revitalizing experience for skiers who want to enjoy the active lifestyle all over again the next day.

Fairmont Banff Springs (Banff)

Guests at Fairmont Banff Springs can enjoy the abundance of pristine powder and diverse terrain suitable for skiers of all levels. With short lift lines and exceptional hospitality, the skiing experience in Banff is second to none.

This winter, the Banff Ski & Stay Offer lets travellers stay five nights or more and save 30% on accommodation plus daily breakfast included.

Fairmont Château Lake Louise (Lake Louise)

With 20 per cent savings on accommodation, complimentary breakfast, and discounts on ski equipment rentals, the Ski More, Save More Package makes Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise the ultimate winter getaway destination. Available to book now for stays through April 30, 2024.