Four Seasons Toronto shows off newly-refurbished suites

May 10, 2024 No Comments

Four Seasons Hotel Toronto announces the completion of an extensive, multimillion dollar guest room renovation, enhancing the luxury experience for its guests from around the world.

With a focus on elevating comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, the redesign encompasses all 259 guest rooms including 42 suites within the hotel.

The importance of maintaining the Hotel’s distinct architectural character was paramount, and the refresh introduced many enhancements while respecting the existing design framework. Every aspect of the rooms and suites has been meticulously reconsidered, from carpets to furnishings, lighting to artwork. All furniture has been designed and manufactured in Canada, utilizing local artisans and fabrics throughout the rooms.

Thoughtful guest amenities

Adding to the allure of the newly redesigned spaces are several thoughtful additions.

Guests now enjoy programmable temperature control kettles by Corvo, Nespresso machines, press steamers in every room, and exclusive wine labels sourced from the nearby Niagara wine region.

Technological upgrades include a new dimmable, LED and energy efficient Lutron lighting system, automated drapes, and increased power outlets throughout the rooms. Wireless chargers are available at each nightstand, ensuring convenience and connectivity for modern travellers.

In the suites, guests may enjoy a seasonally updated Manhattan cocktail kit featuring house made ingredients including infused Canadian Rye, vermouth and bitters curated by our Four Seasons mixologists with the flavours of the season.  

In addition to the guest rooms and suites, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto has previously renovated public spaces ensuring a cohesive and seamlessly updated guest experience throughout the property. With the completion of this renovation project, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto reaffirms its commitment to providing unparalleled luxury and hospitality, inviting guests to indulge in a refined retreat amid the vibrant heart of Toronto.

Four Seasons Hotel Toronto is offering up to CAD 400 per stay in Hotel credit with the Experience More package. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.fourseasons.com/toronto.

Hyatt is opening more than 30 hotels in Latin America

May 8, 2024 No Comments

World of Hyatt guests and members will soon have more than 30 new hotels to consider in Latin America & the Caribbean.

Through 2027, Hyatt is committed to expanding its brand presence in new and exciting destinations throughout the region.

The Destination by Hyatt brand is a diverse collection of independent hotels, resorts and residences that offers one-of-a-kind experiences around the globe with stays that are authentic to their destination.

The brand is expanding its footprint in Latin America & the Caribbean with the introduction of properties in two new markets:

  • The Legend Paracas Resort (Peru, expected to open in summer 2024): The resort, located on the coast of Peru about three hours south of Lima, is expected to join the Destination by Hyatt brand this summer amid a phased enhancement project focused on elevating guestrooms and common areas. Guests will have endless opportunities to discover the Paracas Natural Reserve or Paracas Bay with a range of curated experiences such as kayaking, paddleboarding, sandboarding, and more.
  • Cas En Bas Beach Resort (St. Lucia, expected to open in early 2025): Nestled on the northern tip of St. Lucia, and idyllically situated between two 18-hole championship golf courses and a stunning white sand beach, the resort will provide a secluded, elevated luxury escape. The resort is expected to open in early 2025 with contemporary residential-style studios, and one- and two-bedroom suites.

With 10 all-inclusive brands providing endless hospitality through well-appointed accommodations, exceptional service, gourmet a la carte dining, and thoughtful touches, Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection portfolio continues to expand in new and existing destinations throughout Mexico and the Caribbean in 2023 and 2024.

New hotels coming soon

Dreams Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino adults-only expansion (expected to debut 2024): Expected to debut on July 1, Dreams Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino will open an all-new adult-only preferred club section to complement the existing family-friendly offerings. The 53 modern-designed standalone units, titled ‘IL MARE’, embrace next-generation architecture with modern interior design to create a first-of-its-kind luxury beachfront experience overlooking Piscadera Bay, with amenities such as thoughtfully appointed custom crafted furniture, a bathroom with two vanities, an indoor sitting area, and an oversized oceanfront terrace with direct beach access.

Dreams Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort family-friendly expansion (expected to open in summer 2024): Located adjacent to the existing Dreams Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort, this new section will add 58 additional rooms, a new restaurant, and three new pools, including a dedicated pool for children with a pirate ship, a pool with water slides, and an adults-only pool.

Dreams Sapphire Resort & Spa family-friendly expansion (expected to open in 2024): The new expansion of this resort will add new private luxury villas and a new event space, dining experiences and separate building that will feature a rooftop with breathtaking views, a bar, sushi bar, infinity pool and venue to host memorable weddings, along with premium room categories.

Secrets Playa Esmeralda Punta Cana (expected to open in 2024): Designed with the adults-only concept in mind, this intimate resort will feature nine gourmet dining options, including six à la carte restaurants, a buffet, a cafe, a grill by the pool, beach, and a private lounge for Preferred Club guests.

Dreams Playa Esmeralda Punta Cana (expected to open in 2024): The family-friendly resort will offer nine restaurants, three snack bars, an ice cream parlor as well as its own Preferred Club lounge, an Explorer’s Club for Kids with activities for children ages 3-12, a Core Zone Teens Club with entertainment for teens ages 13-17, and a water park.

Secrets Baby Beach Aruba (expected to open in 2025): This adults-only resort will mark Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection debut to the island of Aruba. Situated alongside Baby Beach, a popular white-sand lagoon in the southern part of the island close to San Nicolas, this new resort will boast architecture that blends with the landscape, offering stunning views of the region.

Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa (expected to open in 2025): Just minutes from the world-class Rodney Bay Marina, Cap Estate Golf Course, and capital city of Castries, guests will enjoy a stunning view of dramatically tapered mountains, volcanic beaches, reef-diving sites, fishing village and more at this new adults-only property.

Breathless Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa (expected to open in 2025): Situated in a secluded zone just 10 minutes from Puerto Vallarta International Airport, the resort will be a prime destination for adults-only guests, featuring impressive amenities, including four swimming pools, a scenic rooftop with picturesque views, a variety of culinary options and more.

For more information, visit hyatt.com.

A new massive cruise terminal is opening in Florida

May 6, 2024 No Comments

Port Canaveral is building a new cruise terminal to meet the growing demands of the cruise industry.

The strategic decision to build a new multi-user cruise terminal at the Port’s existing North 8 berth provides significant cost savings, operational flexibility, and an expedited construction timeline of approximately two years to accommodate the largest ships in the world across a spectrum of brands.

Port Canaveral’s existing North 8 berth shares its basin with the Port’s Cruise Terminal 5 on the northside of Port Canaveral. Designed and built in 2018 for multi-purpose flexibility, North 8 berth will require minimal modifications to extend the current 1,020 linear feet bulkhead to 1,344 feet to accommodate large cruise vessels. Additionally, waterside improvements to the northside of the shared basin will also extend and improve the berthing capacity of Cruise Terminal 5.

Timeline for design, engineering, and construction are in development with target completion for the new facility by summer 2026. The new terminal campus will include a multi-story parking facility to accommodate up to 3,000 vehicles and roadway improvements in and out of the new facility, including turning lanes and a “flyover” ramp directly connecting the site with State Road 401.

Virgin Limited Edition welcomes luxury safari camp to portfolio

May 3, 2024 No Comments

Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Limited Edition has added the Finch Hattons Luxury Safari Camp in Kenya to its collection of unique retreats.

Located in the Tsavo National Park of Kenya, this marks the ninth property within the collection and its fifth footprint in Africa, complementing its other properties across the continent, including Mahali Mzuri, Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, Mont Rochelle Hotel & Vineyard, and the famed Kasbah Tamadot.

It will also become an integral part of the wider parent company, Virgin Hotels Collection, encompassing Virgin Hotels and Virgin Limited Edition, which was formed last year.

About Finch Hattons Luxury Safari Camp

The tented safari camp, already distinguished for its family values, is deeply rooted in community and sustainability.

“Africa is one of my favourite parts of the world. Each cornerstone offers something entirely unique, surrounded by rich heritage and culture,” said Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group. “I’m delighted Finch Hattons and all of the incredible wildlife in the Tsavo National Park will join our Virgin family and I can’t wait to visit soon.”

Finch Hattons features 17-luxury tented suites and three decades of safari experience from the Kenyan-based Gehlot family – the owners of Finch Hattons and co-owners of Mahali Mzuri – together with Sir Richard Branson. It will offer future Virgin Limited Edition guests extraordinary experiences within the treasures of Tsavo, not to mention Africa’s only Shetani lava flow and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

“This is a momentous occasion for Virgin Limited Edition and the whole of Virgin Hotels Collection as we welcome Finch Hattons to our family, remarked James Bermingham, CEO, Virgin Hotels Collection.  “Growth is very much part of our plan for the entire collection over the coming years and this is just the start as we look to expand our guest choice across the globe.”

Available to book this July

Finch Hattons will become part of the Virgin Limited Edition portfolio from July 1, 2024.

Rates start from $796 per person per night, including accommodation, all meals and drinks, as well as all scheduled activities including game drives, excursion to Shetani lava flow, Oldonyo Larami volcano hike, yoga, nature walks and return airstrip transfers.

For more information visit https://www.virginlimitededition.com/finch-hattons-coming-soon/

61% of Canadians crave meaningful travel experiences

May 1, 2024 No Comments
If 2023 was the year for “revenge travel,” then 2024 is shaping up to be the year for intentional exploration.
 
A recent Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) survey conducted by YouGov reveals that 61 per cent of Canadians are planning to pack their bags within the next year—but this time with a purpose.
 
Canadians are trading impulsive getaways for mindful travel choices, seeking meaningful experiences that align with their values, aspirations—and tighter budgets. The same study reveals that 82% of respondents are opting to adapt their vacations in response to soaring costs rather than abandoning their travel plans altogether.
 

Survey highlights

Surveyed Canadians are adopting a strategic approach to their travel choices:

  • 86 per cent prioritize cost savings and exclusive deals
  • 74 per cent seek destination variety and uniqueness
  • 57 per cent value personalization and customization
    This mindset has resulted in a 35% uptick in tour bookings for 2023 over previous years, indicating the growing preference for value-centric travel experiences, with tours typically offering savings of up to 20% compared to independently booking the same itinerary.
  For more information, visit flightcentre.ca.

Polar adventure company launches helicopter trip through Patagonia

April 26, 2024 No Comments

Quark Expeditions has blazed a new trail in expedition travel with its inaugural helicopter-supported voyage through Chilean Patagonia.

The polar operator also confirms that 90 of the 165 passengers (55 per cent) who joined the maiden voyage of “Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords and Torres del Paine” in March 2024 were repeat guests of Quark Expeditions.

The 15-day itinerary, which ran March 13 to 27, 2024, departed Buenos Aires with embarkation from Ushuaia, and included Cape Horn, a transit through the Beagle Channel, then into Chile’s spectacular network of fjords and channels, featuring helicopter flightseeing and Zodiac cruises along an enchanting stretch of coastline that’s known for some of the most remote and picturesque landscapes on Earth.

Trip highlights

Highlights included:

  • Heli flightseeing: Our two H145 helicopters provided unmatched views of Patagonia’s mountain-top glaciers and ice caps—which are not visible from sea level.
     
  • Heli landing: Ultramarine‘s helicopters transported guests to the peaks of Canal de las Montanas (Channel of the Mountains) where they enjoyed unsurpassable views of the surrounding fjords.
     
  • Immersive cultural experiences: Guests visited an 85,000-hectare estancia (South American ranch) and explored the cultural heritage of the town of Puerto Natales.
     
  • Unrivalled wildlife: Guests observed a staggering array of wildlife, including guanacos, the elusive puma, South American sea lions, Andean foxes and whales.
     
  • Phenomenal bird-watching: Species included Andean condors, Magellanic penguins, Chilean flamingos, oystercatchers, kingfishers and three types of Caracaras.
     
  • Hiking and photography tours: Guests choose from guided photographic adventures and various levels of hikes in Torres del Paine National Park.
     
  • Paddling and kayaking excursions: Guests observed a variety of marine life up close, such as mussels, kelp, snails, starfish and krill.
     
  • Journey down Iceberg Alley: From the deck of Ultramarine, guests witnessed a series of epic ice formations, most notably in the region of Tierra del Fuego.

Quark Expeditions’ next departure of Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords and Torres del Paine embarks March 13 to 27, 2025, and March 12 to 26, 2026.

Air Canada just added extra summer flights to Asia and Europe

April 24, 2024 No Comments

Air Canada customers have a wide range of exciting options across Europe and Asia this summer, along with a choice of 120 destinations in North America, to fulfill their summer travel plans.

Alongside new and enhanced international routes to Singapore, Madrid, Stockholm, Osaka and Seoul, the carrier’s Summer 2024 international capacity is growing by 30 per cent into Asia-Pacific and 25 per cent to key leisure destinations in Southern Europe compared to last summer.

Air Canada’s Atlantic schedule will provide the most non-stop service between Canada and Europe of any carrier. From Montreal and Toronto, Air Canada is launching new non-stop routes to Stockholm, and will increase frequencies to Rome and Athens. From Montreal, the carrier will also launch year-round service to Madrid, increase flights to Paris to up to three-times daily during the summer peak, and restore service to Lyon.

From Toronto, service will increase to Copenhagen and will commence Edinburgh and Brussels earlier in the season.

A gateway to the Pacific

Across the Pacific, Air Canada continues to build its Vancouver hub as the gateway to the Pacific.  

The carrier recently started year-round service to Singapore from Vancouver, and will increase capacity to Hong Kong, Osaka and Seoul. On the East Coast, the airline is excited to start seasonal service from Toronto to Osaka and increase capacity to Tokyo, while from Montreal, Air Canada will begin seasonal service to Seoul, complementing enhanced capacity to Tokyo.

In North America, new routes will be offered from Toronto and Montreal to Tulum, from Toronto to Charleston, and from Montreal to St. Louis, Austin and New Orleans. Within Canada, Ottawa–Calgary and Halifax–Vancouver flights will resume, and there will be frequency or capacity increases, including between Toronto and Saskatoon, Regina, Victoria, Sydney and Gander, as well as between Montreal and Regina, Saskatoon, Victoria, Edmonton, Moncton, Fredericton and Deer Lake.  

Air Canada is increasing its international network capacity by 8 per cent for summer 2024 compared to summer 2023. The airline is also boosting service to North America, with an increase of four per cent in available daily seats in 2024, with 518 flights to 120 destinations.

 

Oceania is visiting these exciting Mediterranean islands in 2025

April 22, 2024 No Comments

Oceania Cruises has debuted an array of new 2025 Mediterranean sailings, ranging from nine to 56 days through Europe.

The line’s Marina and Nautica will set sail on enticing voyages taking in iconic islands in the Mediterranean, Aegean and Adriatic; well-loved European resort towns and bustling cities, and lesser-known ports of call.

Cities including Athens, Barcelona, Istanbul, Rome and Lisbon frame the 16 voyages, allowing the ships to meander from lively jet-set resort towns such as Monte Carlo, Cannes, Positano and Sorrento, to hidden gems including Tirana and Sarande in Albania; Trapani in Sicily; Calvi and Propriano in Corsica, and Sibenik in Croatia.

New 2025 Mediterranean itineraries

Marina

The 1,250-guest ship, Marina, will undergo an expansive refurbishment in May 2024. The refurbishment will include the addition of two new dining options: Aquamar Kitchen, the new wellness-inspired dining venue which debuted on Vista this year; and the al fresco evening Pizzeria, serving spectacular Italian dishes including pizzas and burrata with stunning seascape views; plus an expanded poolside ice cream parlor serving milkshakes and smoothies. All Penthouse Suites and bathrooms will be completely reinspired, and the ship’s public areas will be refreshed.

Nautica

Elegantly charming, Nautica carries just 670 guests, served by 400 crew members. Boasting luxurious, residential furnishings and decks of the finest teak, custom stone and tile work, Nautica features four restaurants, the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, plus eight lounges and bars, and a casino.

Grand Voyages

Oceania Cruises’ simply MORE value promise means virtually everything is included in the voyage fare: free roundtrip airfare and airport transfers; complimentary vintage Champagnes, premium wines and international beers during lunch and dinner; and a shore excursion credit of up to $1,400 per stateroom (credit varies by voyage length).

Created to elevate the guest experience, simply MORE means travelers receive the greatest value in luxury cruising.

For more information, visit OceaniaCruises.com.

 

Mondrian Mexico City Condesa relaunches its rooftop bar

April 19, 2024 No Comments

Nestled in the vibrant Condesa neighborhood of Mexico City, Mondrian Mexico City Condesa is an architectural masterpiece boasting avant-garde design and a multitude of gastronomic offerings.

The hotel’s renowned SkyBar stands out with its seductive ambiance and breathtaking views. In the past month, it unveiled revamped offerings that provide an inspiring experience for guests and locals alike, seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant nightlife of the city.

 

About SkyBar

SkyBar Condesa is a spontaneous and seductive escape, where the art of mixology reigns alongside local culture, crafting elevated and unique flavours.

SkyBar has become one of the most fashionable spots in the Mexican capital, celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere, dazzling views, and sleek design. SkyBar’s new image invites visitors to experience the ambiance of an exclusive beach club, boasting sleek, contemporary decor, luxurious lounging areas, and a vibrant coastal atmosphere that creates an oasis of relaxation and sophistication amidst the urban hustle and bustle.

The revamped gastronomic concept features international cuisine with a Mexican fusion, offering an extensive variety of dishes. Inspired by emblematic details of the city, SkyBar’s mixology invites guests to immerse themselves in the destination, with each cocktail telling a unique story that complements the unparalleled views.

SkyBar Condesa is one of the best places to enjoy a unique night, within a location full of history and with a privileged location in Mexico City.

Adults-only all-inclusive with overwater suites opens in Antigua

April 17, 2024 No Comments

Royalton CHIC Antigua, the highly anticipated adults-only all-inclusive resort is officially open, marking a significant milestone for top-tier lifestyle travel in this region of the Caribbean.

As the newest addition to Blue Diamond Resorts’ portfolio and its first property exclusively for adults on the island, it introduces the innovative ‘Party Your Way’ concept to cater to couples, groups of friends, and solo travellers seeking an unforgettable social vacation experience amidst the stunning backdrop of the Caribbean Sea.

 

About Royalton CHIC Antigua

Royalton CHIC Antigua boasts a wide array of amenities and offerings designed to delight the senses and elevate the vacation experience.

This brand-new resort offers 235 meticulously designed rooms, each blending modern comfort and elegance with lively touches synonymous with the ‘Party Your Way’ lifestyle, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, including rooms with breathtaking ocean views, swim-out access, and walkout oceanfront suites, each featuring a balcony or terrace.

In addition to its rooms and suites, the resort will feature exclusive twelve Overwater suites for those seeking an unparalleled luxury experience – Chairman, Presidential, or Junior Suite – with special Diamond Club™ perks, such as seamless check-in, access to exclusive areas, and personalized butler service.

Dining and amenities

Dining at Royalton CHIC Antigua is a remarkable journey into gastronomic excellence, with seven restaurants and five bars.

Notable among these is the Overwater Restaurant “Pescari,” embracing a “Diningtainment” concept that merges dining and entertainment with panoramic ocean views, setting a new standard for elevated culinary experiences in the region.

Guests seeking an upgraded experience can opt to stay in the Diamond Club™ room categories, which offer the best room locations and come with a set of specific room amenities and services. Additionally, guests enjoy access to private areas, dinner reservations, and personal butlers to ensure that their stay exceeds expectations.

These room categories have proven to be a resounding success at other Royalton Luxury Resorts properties, where certified butlers maintain the highest standards in hospitality services and are consistently favored by guests.

Royalton CHIC Antigua is now open and ready to welcome spirited guests to indulge in the luxurious paradise of Antigua.

For more information or to book your stay, visit www.royaltonchicresorts.com.