This tour operator is offering a series of self-guided cycling trips through Italy

Building on last year’s successful launch of self-guided cycling tours in Italy, ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours, a trailblazer in cycling vacations and leader in active travel, is introducing three new extended itineraries for 2025, offering travellers a deeper dive into the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Italy’s la dolce vita.

These longer trips align with the growing trend of slow travel, combining multiple weeklong routes to create seamless adventures that prioritize immersive and sustainable experiences.

“We think that with the expense and time it takes to travel these days, a longer bike tour just makes sense,” said Maria Elena Price, co-owner of ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours. “Not to mention, spending more time in a place – getting to know it in the more immersive and intimate manner that exploring by bike provides – is so much more enriching, rewarding, and overall, a more sustainable way to travel.”

Designed for travellers who love the freedom of choosing their own pace while enjoying the peace-of-mind that comes with knowing key details such as accommodations and route mapping are taken care of, these new adventures offer deep dives into three famed regions: The Dolomites, Emilia-Romagna, and Tuscany.

For details on all ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours’ guided and self-guided cycling adventures in Europe, the Caribbean, and South America, visit ExperiencePlus.com.

CroisiEurope’s newest luxury ship to offer eco experiences on the Amazon

CroisiEurope is building a new luxury ship that will offer a unique eco-tourism experience on the Amazon. This new, as yet un-named ship, is CroisiEurope’s first new build since 2020 and its first to operate in South America.

The 32-guest, four-deck ship will measure 49 metres long by 15 metres wide and will feature plenty of wood, vibrant colours
and local arts and crafts inspired by Amazonian culture. Accommodation will comprise 16 suites with private balconies including two presidential suites suspended between the sky and water. There will also be a gourmet restaurant serving Brazilian inspired dishes, a spa, fitness room, sun deck and conference room.

As part of its commitment to protecting and preserving the Amazon, CroisiEurope is implementing the latest eco innovations including engines that meet the strictest environment standards, an advanced wastewater treatment system and solar panels which will allow the ship to shut down its generators at night and operate on batteries. Sustainable practices will be observed onboard while ashore, respectful tourism will benefit local communities through meetings with Amazonian communities in order to share knowledge and stories, supporting local initiatives and protecting bio-diversity and ensuring that each guest uses their experience to become an ambassador for the Amazon.

Starting in 2027, the new ship will home port in Manaus and offer 12-day itineraries that unveil the treasures of the Brazilian
Amazon, navigating the Amazon River, the Rio Negro, the Solimões, the Arapiuns and the Tapajós up to the Colombian border.

Various extensions will also be available. Itineraries will be open for booking soon.

Swan Hellenic opens bookings for enhanced 2026-2027 Antarctic cruises

Swan Hellenic has announced its 2026-2027 Antarctic Season cruises, several of which sail further south into the Antarctic Circle than other expedition options.

Further attractions are Swan Hellenic’s much-praised guest service and elegant but informal, boutique ice-class vessels, the five-star sister ships SH Vega and slightly larger SH Diana, accommodating 152 and 192 guests respectively.

But this exclusive experience also means limited capacity. Even with a total of 24 Antarctic departures between them, only 4,777 guest places are available for the entire 2026-2027 season. Which is why wise adventurers book well in advance and Swan Hellenic has announced everything as early as possible.

At the heart of the season are 24 round-trip voyages from homeport Ushuaia, the “end of the world” in southern Argentina. Each follows one in a select series of five expertly curated itineraries exploring the Antarctic Peninsula in depth, three of which approach it from the lesser-visited Weddell Sea.

Special themed cruises

Special Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year of the Horse celebration cruises are offered, with SH Vega combining Christmas and New Year in the 13-night Roundtrip Cruise to Ushuaia from 22 December 2026 to 3 January 2027.

A long semi-circumnavigation voyage complements these round-trip cruises, the 20-night South Atlantic Cruise from Cape Town, South Africa, to Ushuaia aboard SH Diana.

This ocean discovery voyage explores Saint Helena, Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha, the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world, along with the South Sandwich Islands and South Georgia Island

New features on Antarctica cruises

A distinctive new feature of Swan Hellenic’s Antarctica cruises introduced for the 2026-2027 season will be the opportunity to walk on the wild side in included expert-led snowshoeing expeditions that enable beginner and experienced guests alike to explore further than a normal landing activity. Typically around one and a half hours long, each will be led by two experienced mountaineers and will of course be dependent on the snow conditions.

All Swan Hellenic cruises are fully inclusive and feature gourmet cuisine, specialist talks and hands-on, expert-led expeditions.

“We’re really excited about our new Antarctica offerings and the fantastic developments they introduce,” said Swan Hellenic Chief commercial officer Patrizia Iantorno. “From deep exploration of the Weddell Sea, one of the most pristine intact ecosystems on earth, to our new snowshoeing expeditions, they offer brilliant opportunities to see what others don’t on life-changing voyages exploring the world’s last great wilderness.”

Complete information is available on the Swan Hellenic Website and a full calendar of all the 2026-2027 Antarctic Season Cruises can be downloaded here.

Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve opens in Costa Rica’s Peninsula Papagayo

Nestled within one of the world’s most biodiverse destinations, Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, has officially opened its doors, offering discerning travellers a secluded, ultra-luxury retreat amidst the unspoiled natural beauty of Costa Rica’s Peninsula Papagayo.

Named after the Chorotega word for “lush garden,” Nekajui (NEK-ah-wee) marks a monumental milestone as the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Central and South America and the eighth addition to the brand’s exclusive portfolio.

Located on Peninsula Papagayo, a 1,400-acre canvas of dry tropical forest atop coastal cliffs, Nekajui’s collection of 107 thoughtfully designed ocean-facing rooms, suites, and three luxury treetop tents seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living while celebrating Costa Rica’s rich cultural heritage. Owned by Mohari Hospitality and Gencom, and developed by The Athens Group, the resort’s accommodations range from expansive guest rooms, starting at 872 square feet, to one- and two-bedroom suites, the luxurious four-bedroom Nekajui Grand Villa, and 36 private residences featuring two to five bedrooms. For the ultimate exclusivity, Villa Guayacan is a 10-bedroom retreat set amidst a remarkable natural backdrop.

Stunning accomodations

Showcasing framed vistas of Playa Pochote and the Pacific Ocean, the resort’s elegant accommodations feature multi-panel, floor-to-ceiling glass doors unveiling sweeping seascapes.

Outdoor shower gardens, private plunge pools, and deep-soaking tubs invite guests into a sensory immersion fully enveloped in nature’s beauty. Contemporary interiors reveal artistic craftsmanship, showcasing local custom woodwork and traditional accents that reflect the vibrant colours of the region’s flora and fauna. Chorotegan-inspired décor—featuring gold works, clay pottery, and hand-crafted local wood, stone, and tile—add to Nekajui’s unique sense of place, transporting guests to a timeless sanctuary and enhancing Costa Rica’s tropical paradise.

Oceania Cruises adds 12 tasty culinary tours for 2025

Oceania Cruises has expanded its signature range of immersive Culinary Discovery Tours with the addition of 12 new gourmet excursions for 2025.

The new chef-led tours are in diverse locations spanning the globe from Europe and the UK with new excursions in Amsterdam, BelfastInvergordonValencia, and Valletta; to Asia with three new options for Japan sailings in Kobe, Kochi, and Shimizu, plus Busan in South Korea; and North America where new tours are available in HalifaxQuebec City, and Victoria.

The additions mean Oceania Cruises now offers a total of 46 Culinary Discovery Tours, available on its four larger ships, Marina,  ships, MarinaRiviera, Vista, and Allura, which debuts July 2025.

About the Culinary Discovery tours

The Culinary Discovery Tours are an integral part of the line’s renowned food-focused enrichment program, which includes The Culinary Center, the first-ever hands-on cooking school at sea, offering unparalleled experiences for gourmands wanting to learn and to explore cultures through food.

Limited to 18 guests and led by Oceania Cruises’ team of expert Chef Instructors, each of the Culinary Discovery Tours goes beyond traditional sightseeing, providing access to local markets, acclaimed restaurants, and hands-on cooking classes, both on board and ashore.

From foraging for wild sea herbs on Belfast’s rugged coast to indulging in a plant-to-plate luncheon inside an Amsterdam greenhouse where ingredients are harvested moments before they reach a guest’s fork, these tours give travellers an intimate look at local life through the lens of food and its impact on the culture and community.

In Japan, witness the precision of traditional knife-making in Kobe before a teppanyaki feast of wagyu beef, or master the art of searing bonito over an open flame in Kochi. Uncover the secrets of authentic paella on a boat ride through Valencia’s rice fields, or explore South Korea’s famed seafood markets.

For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small-ship luxury, exquisitely crafted cuisine, and expertly refined travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 855-OCEANIA, or speak with a professional travel advisor.

Windstar’s newest ship shows off Southeast Asia experiences for 2026

Windstar Cruises recently unveiled its 2026 Southeast Asia program for its newest yacht, Star Seeker, which debuts December 2025.  The line is offering two core itineraries combinable in 17 different variations including inland pre- and post-Cruise Tour programs.

Star Seeker’s Southeast Asia program offers an in-depth exploration of the cultures, cuisine and history of Thailand and Vietnam, improving on the typical cruise experience in the region. Unlike most cruises that start and end in Singapore or Hong Kong, make stops at industrial ports far from key attractions, and spend just two or three days in each country, Windstar will take advantage of Star Seeker’s small size to offer a more immersive experience.  

Itineraries begin in-country – in HanoiBangkok, and Phuket – allowing guests to maximize their time on land before and after sailing, with options for pre- and post-cruise tours to inland destinations such as Angkor Wat. The small size of Star Seeker enables exclusive access to ports and docking locations that larger ships cannot reach, including sailing up rivers to dock in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok, stopping at Ko Kood for the Windstar Signature Beach Party—a port visited by only select small ships—and traveling to Krabi and Ko Yao Noi.

About the Southeast Asia program

The Southeast Asia program features two core cruise-only voyages:

  • 10-day VietnamCambodia, & Thailand – Vietnam country intensive cruise stopping at three to four Vietnam ports including overnights in Ho Chi Minh city and Hanoi (Halong Bay), with an additional visit to Cambodia, where guests can book a three-day/two-night shore excursion to Angkor Wat.
  • 11-day ThailandSingapore, & Malaysia – Thailand country intensive cruise stopping at six Thai ports including small destinations like Krabi and Ko Yao Noi, plus an overnight in Singapore, a highlight of the sailing.

The Southeast Asia itineraries can be enhanced by adding culturally rich Cruise Tours which extend the journey before or after the cruise:

  • Hanoi – three-night trip for cruises embarking and disembarking in Ha Long Bay, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local life of Hanoi with street food tours in the old quarter featuring traditional Vietnamese phin drip and Vietnamese coffee; morning tai chi lessons like the locals do; history tours of the Hanoi Hilton Prison and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum; culture attractions like a traditional puppet show, cyclo tour, and a visit to a local pottery village.
  • Angkor Wat – three nights extension on cruises that start and end in Bangkok with a bucket-list visit to Angkor Wat; explore Siem Reap to learn about the Khmer people who were responsible for constructing the temples and see their modern-day craftsmanship; visits to the Tonel Lake Stilt village and floating markets.
  • Chiang Mai – three nights exploration of Northern Thailand’s cultural capital, available on cruises that start and end in Phuket. Visit the cultural capital of Thailand and explore the famous mountain temple Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and new and old temples with monk ceremonies; enjoy the opportunity to visit an Elephant Sanctuary where guests can interact with and help feed and care for the elephants, an animal that carries great significance to the people and country of Thailand; and explore lively night markets tasting local specialties like Khao soi.

Guests also have the option of combining cruises into back-to-back Star Collector sailings. Itineraries ranging from 20 to 41 days are available with the longest cruising between Tokyo, Japan and Phuket, Thailand. As a bonus, free daily laundry is provided so guests can still pack light.

To plan a small ship cruise with Windstar or learn about booking offers, contact a travel advisor, reach out to Windstar Cruises by phone at 866-258-7245, book online here, or request a call by a Windstar vacation planner.  Find more information on Windstar Cruises here.   

10 unforgettable places to visit in Colombia

Colombia’s rise as a top-tier travel destination speaks for itself. In 2024, the country welcomed a record-breaking 6.7 million international visitors—an increase of around 8.5% from the previous year.

By this time of year and the month of March, the local dry season creates perfect conditions for exploring the Lost City Trek in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, one of the most irreplaceable places on earth. This year, Santa Marta is celebrating its 500th anniversary, adding a cultural dimension to the adventure.

“In Spring, AmaWaterways launches its first luxury river cruise along the Magdalena River, giving travelers a new way to experience The Country of Beauty with world-class service. Also in March, Barranquilla Carnival, a UNESCO-listed cultural event—fills the streets with parades and music”, said Carmen Caballero, president of ProColombia, the promotion agency of Colombia.

In Summer, Caño Cristales, the River of Colors, becomes a natural wonder as aquatic plants transform its waters into shades of red and purple. From July to November, Colombian waters become a haven for humpback whales, drawing nature enthusiasts eager to witness their majestic presence.

Visitors also flock to the Tatacoa Desert from June to August, when the dry skies provide some of the clearest stargazing opportunities in South America. Later in the summer, Medellin hosts its famous Flower Fair, turning the city into a colorful celebration of nature. That same month, Cali’s Petronio Álvarez Music Festival brings Afro-Colombian culture to life with live music, and traditional cuisine.

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, fall is the ideal time to visit La Guajira, the northernmost point of South America, where desert landscapes meet turquoise seas. Alternatively, travelers can enjoy Mompox‘s Jazz Festival, which brings international artists to perform in a colonial setting, blending music and history.

By the end of the year, Cañón del Güejar is an ideal destination for nature lovers. This hidden gem is perfect for rafting through rock formations and emerald-green waters. Around these dates, literary enthusiasts can also follow in the footsteps of Gabriel García Márquez across the Caribbean coast, with boutique stays and culinary experiences inspired by One Hundred Years of Solitude.

Colombia offers something for every traveler across its six tourism regions.

Four Seasons launches private jet experience inspired by The White Lotus

Get ready to board the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience for an exclusive opportunity to explore some of the iconic settings of the HBO® Original Series The White Lotus with a new World of Wellness journey.

Building on the recently announced global partnership between Four Seasons and HBO, the unforgettable 20-day itinerary will be offered for one exclusive journey, touching down in Maui, Taormina and Koh Samui— filming locations of the first three seasons of acclaimed series—along with five additional intriguing destinations that will allow guests to create their very own memorable storylines.

The World of Wellness itinerary will take flight for one journey and is designed to celebrate the cultural phenomenon of The White Lotus and some of the iconic settings of its storylines, along with other compelling global destinations. With wellbeing playing its own role in the third series, guests aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience can explore wellness their way, with fully personalized itineraries to enrich mind, body and soul as they travel from one captivating destination to the next. Whether indulging in a spa treatment, looking for an adrenaline rush, or simply lounging with a cocktail in hand, guests can dream up their own wellness itinerary suited to their wishes.

Trip itinerary highlights

The Four Seasons Private Jet Experience offers a seamless end-to-end journey aboard a custom-designed Airbus A321 with stops in some of the world’s most fascinating destinations, this time with a focus on personalized wellness. On the ground and in the air, guests will enjoy Four Seasons legendary service, access to local adventures and experiences, and personalized care from a dedicated team.

World of Wellness will take 48 guests to eight iconic destinations from May 7 to 26, 2026. Travelling aboard the custom-designed Four Seasons Private Jet, guests will take off from Singapore, before journeying onwards to Koh Samui, the Maldives, Taormina, Marrakech, NevisMexico City, and completing the journey in Maui—all with stays exclusively at Four Seasons hotels and resorts.

Highlights include three nights at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui in Thailand, a backdrop in the recently premiered third season of The White Lotus. Guests will have the opportunity to snorkel with guidance from an expert marine biologist, take part in Muay Thai training at the property’s iconic boxing ring set in the hills with 240-degree views of the ocean and jungle, and enjoy spa treatments inspired by the Resort’s tropical surroundings and rooted in Thai traditions.

In Taormina, Sicily, which served as a setting in season two, guests will enjoy three nights at San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel, cycling to picturesque wineries around Mount Etna, morning yoga in the Belvedere Gardens, and creating one’s own TV-worthy scenes strolling through the pebble stone streets and back alleys of the historic town, enjoying the many culinary delights at every corner.

Along the way, each destination is ripe for discovery to suit each guest’s own needs, starting with a welcome dinner in Singapore, where guests will taste firsthand why the country is known as a culinary paradise. In the Maldives, discover the magic of a Night Spa ritual performed under the stars, snorkel the coral reef, and embark on a turtle safari, or spend the day lounging amid the turquoise waters surrounding the Resort. Spend a day discovering the cultural secrets of Marrakech amid the ancient medinas, followed by a relaxing private hammam bath experience with a clay scrub from the Atlas Mountains for full-body exfoliation and soothing. In Nevis, rejuvenate at the island’s natural hot springs, and in Mexico City, take part in a traditional temazcal (house of heat) ceremony, take in sunrise views from a hot-air balloon or enjoy a cocktail in the hotel’s world-renowned bar, Fifty Mils.

The trip will conclude where the The White Lotus began, with two nights at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, offering guests the opportunity to explore the coast on an outrigger canoe and unwind at the end of a memorable journey through the traditions of deep-rooted Hawaiian culture in a lomi lomi massage.

Beyond enjoying the wonders of the journey on the ground, travellers will jet-set between each location aboard the custom-designed Four Seasons Jet, featuring 48 handcrafted seats constructed of Italian leather and 6.5 feet (2 metres) of personal space including extended legroom and a plush ottoman. The Jet also features an interactive social space – the “lounge in the sky” – where guests can relax and connect with each other and learn from Four Seasons craftspeople on the brand’s exceptional artistic, wellness and culinary offerings.

The World of Wellness Jet Experience is one of many ways Four Seasons and Max have partnered to create immersive experiences and activations to celebrate The White Lotus around the globe. To learn more, please see here.

JW Marriott opens its second hotel in the Maldives

JW Marriott has opened its second property in the Maldives.  

Nestled in Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon and conveniently located just 15 minutes by boat from Velana International Airport, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort is a luxurious retreat that offers an idyllic sanctuary to recharge the mind, body, and spirit in this tropical oceanic paradise.

With 80 thoughtfully designed private pool villas, including 47 overwater pool villas, the resort blends traditional island aesthetics with contemporary luxury to create a harmonious connection with nature. A haven for relaxation, each villa boasts expansive terraces, uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, and access to pristine lagoons.

Perched above the turquoise waters, the Three-Bedroom Ocean Residence offers an unparalleled sanctuary, blending luxury with breathtaking views for a truly exceptional experience. Tailored for families or groups of friends, this elegant residence provides a refined space to connect and create lasting memories, all while enjoying uninterrupted panoramic ocean views.

A culinary journey

The resort’s seven distinct dining venues and bars offer an extraordinary culinary journey, featuring flavors from around the world and thoughtfully sourced ingredients, inviting guests to indulge in a celebration of taste and craftsmanship. 

Veyo, with its international menu, celebrates the resort’s innate flair for catering to a wide range of discerning tastes where fresh and inspiring ingredients paired with panoramic views awaken the senses.

Meanwhile, Wahoo, the infinity pool bar, provides a laid-back yet refined atmosphere where guests can enjoy refreshing beverages and aromatic dishes. At Athiri, the resort’s signature steakhouse, guests will be captivated by its stunning two-story design, featuring a dramatic curved roof inspired by the rise and fall of ocean waves. Here, premium cuts of meat are expertly prepared, complemented by panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.

Perched above, Nikkei offers a vibrant bar experience with craft cocktails and light bites inspired by the fusion of Peruvian cuisine and global influences, blending both Japanese and European traditions. At Riva, guests can indulge in a sophisticated reinterpretation of Indian Ocean heritage. This fine dining destination elevates traditional Indian dishes, Sri Lankan elements, and local Maldivian flavors, served in an elegant and contemporary setting. For those seeking an intentional dining experience, Pure, showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients crafted into exquisite dishes that honor the island’s natural bounty. Many ingredients such as Rosemary, Mint, Basil, Thyme and Sage are harvested directly from the JW Garden, offering an authentic farm-to-table experience. 

Tito’s, a charming deli and patisserie, offers a captivating convergence of visual artistry and exquisite flavors. Its carefully curated collection of handcrafted delights features decadent chocolates, delicate macarons, rich truffles, luxurious cakes, and flaky pastries — each one designed to indulge and enchant the senses.

Revive and reconnect

At the overwater Spa by JW, guests can find renewal through exclusive treatments featuring BABOR’s precision skincare products — a first in the Maldives.

The signature treatment, Ocean Bliss, crafted in collaboration with BABOR, highlights their most prestigious anti-aging skincare range, SeaCreation, enriched with precious active ingredients sourced from deep sea, delivering a transformative experience that embodies the best of precision skincare and island-inspired relaxation.

Wellness enthusiasts can also enjoy sunrise yoga, a state-of-the-art fitness centre with ocean views, and a lap pool.

Guests seeking adventure can participate in marine life activities through snorkeling, diving, and tailored ocean excursions. Thrill-seekers can explore dolphin safaris or parasailing, while those craving stillness can sail into the sunset on a cruise.

The resort’s carefully designed public spaces create moments of serenity for calm reflection, helping to restore balance and focus. Whether indulging in exceptional cuisine, unwinding at the overwater Spa by JW, or partaking in unforgettable adventures, every aspect is designed to inspire renewal and connection. 

For reservations or more information, please visit: www.jwmarriottkaafuatoll.com.

A palace-like hotel is opening in a 17th century building Paris

Maybourne has today announced a 2027 opening for its newest development in the Parisian quarter of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, The Maybourne Saint-Germain, bringing a palace-style hotel with 101 keys and 23 ultra-luxury branded residences to Paris for the first time.

Expanding its prestigious hotel portfolio, Maybourne is creating an extraordinary property that reimagines bespoke hospitality in the City of Light, affirming its status as the eminent choice for global luxurians and strategically focusing on growth within select urban gateways.

The Maybourne Saint-Germain is located along the Rive Gauche within the iconic 17th-century Îlot Saint-Germain, marking a new era for the historic building. The 23 residences will be envisioned by two renowned French interior designers, with seven by Pierre-Yves Rochon along Rue Saint-Dominque, and 16 residences by Laura Gonzalez, located on Rue de l’Université.

About the Maybourne Saint-Germain

Positioned between Boulevard Saint-Germain and Rue Saint-Dominique, the Îlot Saint-Germain has been a Parisian landmark since the 17th century.

Re-concepted for the 21st century, The Maybourne Saint-Germain will create a fourth era for Îlot Saint-Germain, seamlessly integrating with its heritage and creating a new layer of history.

As with each of Maybourne’s properties, The Maybourne Saint-Germain will be extraordinary in its own right while remaining connected to its sister hotels through the brand’s signature craft, progressive vision, and unrivalled locations. The hotel will feature 50 suites and 51 rooms, surrounding a serene inner courtyard.

Aspiring to be the living room of Saint-Germain, residents and guests will also have access to six food and beverage outlets, including a Japanese restaurant, patisserie, Salon de Thé, and more, and Maybourne’s new wellness and longevity brand, Surrenne. A central part of the project, Surrenne will be one of Paris’ largest luxury spa and health clubs offering immersive health, fitness, and beauty, as well as access to a third pool within the property. The 23 branded residences, all serviced by the hotel, will include access to a designated 25-metre pool accessible only by residents, in addition to the hotel’s 30-metre rooftop pool (pictured above).

This opening, born from a fusion of avant-garde Parisian chic with heritage and artistic flair, will mark Maybourne’s first property in Paris and its second in France.

To find out further information about The Maybourne Saint-Germain visit maybourne.com/development.