Christine Roberti, Author at OFFSHORE

This stunning new luxury hotel in Tulum was designed with the help of local artisans

February 14, 2022

Located eight miles north of Tulum, in a secluded bay surrounded by a tropical forest and pristine Caribbean waters, the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya is a 349-room resort that offers a retreat for guests seeking a transformative getaway, with curated signature restaurants, destination spa, oceanfront pools and access to Tulum’s celebrated sights and attractions.

In the heart of the world’s most exquisite natural wonders, from jungles and beaches to hidden cenotes and colorful flora and fauna, Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya is designed to give guests a deep connection with Tulum’s distinctive landscape. Upon entering the lobby, guests pass through ornate wooden doors, engraved by local artisans, and are immediately greeted by sweeping ocean views and an immersive art installation, a nod to ancient Mayan architecture and Tulum’s surroundings.

The nature-inspired theme continues throughout the hotel’s thoughtfully designed guest rooms, incorporating organic elements such as stone, wood and metal. Boasting floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic ocean views, guest rooms are designed with calming tones and elegant furnishings, each with their own private balcony and relaxation tub or plunge pools on the ground floor rooms.

Guests seeking additional space can enjoy a suite complete with a spacious living room and adjacent dining area for up to eight people, as well as a spa-inspired master bathroom complete with a soaking tub and rainfall shower.

A destination unto itself, Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya’s diverse dining options include five restaurants as well as six bars and lounges featuring globally inspired cuisine, casual poolside fare and world-class catering for meetings and events. Venues include energizing bar experiences serving up generous wine lists, regional spirits and refreshing tropical cocktails, and elevated dining experiences offering flavors of the world with innovative and local twists. A sample of the dining offerings at the hotel includes:

Autor: The resort’s most sophisticated dining experience is an ode to its chef or ‘author’ where guests experience a personalized culinary journey curated by Chef Jersaí Miranda.
Maratea: Features distinct cuisine inspired by the Mediterranean Basin from southern Spain to North Africa, Greece and Turkey.
Ukai: A sushi bar dedicated to the traditional Japanese fishing method, brought to life as a contemporary sushi counter committed to sustainable fishing.
Kengai: A Teppanyaki restaurant that merges classic Japanese and Southeast Asian techniques with local ingredients and styles, whose name is inspired by the Jacaranda tree, brought to Mexico by Japanese immigrants in the 20^th century.
Chaak Bar: Named after the Mayan rain god and inspired by the cenotes where the Mayans would connect with him, Chaak Bar offers guests a place to seek shelter and recharge.
Cafetal: This upscale café and market are inspired by the traditional Tianguis, an economic and social gathering center in Mexican culture serving locally sourced coffee, snacks and all-day essentials.

Allowing travellers to discover new facets of well-being and self-fulfillment, the guest experience at Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya is characterized by a deep connection with the natural environment and to honor Tulum’s cultural traditions. Whether floating, snorkeling or kayaking in the crystal-clear bay waters or lounging in an oceanfront cabana by one of the five pools, guests can fully immerse themselves in this mystical paradise.

Nestled within lush mangroves, the Conrad Spa Tulum, for example, is a destination purposefully designed as a wellness refuge. Guests enjoy a wide range of services inspired by the legends of the Mayan gods and traditional Mexican herbalism in individual treatment rooms or “casitas.” Spa offerings include an extensive menu of body rituals, a sensory Water Ritual including an outdoor pool and thermal facilities and the Mayan Manteada, an ancient massage technique in which shawls are tied around the waist to relax and realign the body.

For guests looking for an enlightened sense of well-being and tranquility, the property has an in-house Shaman to perform ancient rituals like the purifying gratitude and sacred cenote ceremonies.

For more information, including photos, click here.

3 amazing wildlife encounters you can only have in The Bahamas

February 11, 2022

A cool Caribbean archipelago encompassing 700 dreamy islands, The Bahamas has quickly become a favoured destination for Canadians flying south for the winter. Beyond its offering of beaches, sand and spas, The Bahamas is also a haven for wildlife lovers, its waters teeming with fascinating animals like gentle nurse sharks, stingrays and the Instagram-famous swimming pigs.

The island of Andros is home to the world’s third largest barrier reef, which hosts more than 164 species of fish and coral, making it one of the most popular locations in the country for divers and snorkellers. The beauty of The Bahamas goes beyond (and below!) the surface of its beaches. Visitors to the region have the chance to experience and enjoy the thrill of close wildlife encounters and voyages on animal adventures unlike anywhere else.

Meet Exuma’s most famous residents

Most novel of these experiences has to be the renowned swimming pigs in The Exumas. A must-visit photo opportunity, popularly documented across social media, the Big Major Cay swimming pigs are equally adorable and mysterious. How did these intelligent creatures end up living the dream on their own private island, surrounded by crystal blue waters with cascading palm tree canopies?

The story is still unclear. Some share enchanting tales of buccaneers and pirates, their captive porkers making a grand escape, while others speak of farmers seeking a place for their animals to be away from their homes and villages. Whatever the truth may be, be sure to speak to the locals whilst there and see which story rings the most true to you. The captivating swimming pigs have captured the hearts and attention of many and are an important and protected asset of the Bahamian ecosystem.

Adhering to a strict diet, it is important for visitors to abide and respect the rules and regulations and to remember that though appearing cute and cuddly, the swimming pigs are still wild animals that should be respected, treated gently and should only be fed fruits and vegetables. Guests are able to visit the pigs via chartered tours where they can spend time in the water with the animals, feeding them, petting them and observing how they swim and interact with each other and their tropical surroundings.

Swim with the sharks

Over in Compass Cay, located 75 miles from Nassau, the gentle and docile Compass Cay sharks (also known as nurse sharks) await the attention and admiration of human visitors with eagerness not to be outdone by their porcine counterparts. Growing up to 10ft long and weighing anywhere between 200-300 pounds, these bottom dwelling sharks feed on a diet of shellfish and coral and can live for up to 25 years.

Brown in appearance and smooth to touch, with hundreds of tiny serrated teeth, Compass Cay sharks are mostly harmless to humans, but should still be treated like all wild animals, with care and consideration guiding your interactions with them. A unique attribute of the nurse shark is their sucking: they vacuum up sediments with a distinctive high-pitched squeal, which makes them all the more endearing.

Snorkel with sting rays

Similar in smoothness and the way in which they gracefully glide through the Bahamian waters are the beloved Stingrays of Grand Bahama Island. Swim, snorkel or simply stand and enjoy these stingrays and their shallow white sand home. A gentle hands-on experience, suitable for the entire family, including little ones who are certain to never forget the memorable experience of holding and feeding a friendly stingray.

The Islands of the Bahamas are rich and abundant in the natural resources and wildlife that they have to offer those who visit the region, with swimming pigs, sharks and stingrays as well as starfish, turtles and more. Whether in shallow waters or wading in the deep, you are guaranteed to make lasting memories and enjoy experiences that you’ll reminisce long past the end of your holiday as you plan and anticipate your next visit.

This study shows that most Canadians are willing to spend money on a rapid antigen test

February 7, 2022

According to Finder.com, about three in ten (29%), or 9 million Canadians say they either have bought, or are planning to buy a COVID-19 rapid antigen test.

Finder.com asked Canadians what they would spend on a rapid test and just 3 in 10 Canadians would spend any amount at all. The majority (just over 9 million Canadians) would pay $5 to $25 on a single antigen test — generally standard pricing.

Surprisingly, over a million of them would spend $100 or more on a test — That’s approximately 500% more than the standard price for a single at-home test (about $15).

However, the reasons for buying a test varied. Approximately 2.3 million Canadians who have bought rapid antigen tests did so because they like the instant results (3%), or for peace of mind (4%).

Approximately one million Canadians (3%) say they would take a test but not buy one themselves, citing cost as a real barrier, saying ‘the tests are too expensive’.

Interestingly, there was a bit of a gender divide in the findings.

Women were more likely to say they would use a rapid antigen test (31% vs 27% in men) but were also more likely to say tests are too expensive (4% vs 3% in men).

While women are more likely to buy antigen tests overall than men (33% vs 28%) — particularly at the lower price points — each gender is equally as likely to spend $100 or more on a test (3% each).

What’s more, age was also a factor with approximately 3 in 10 younger Canadians aged (18 – 34) saying they don’t need a rapid antigen test versus just 2 in 10 seniors aged 65+.

When it comes to spend, millennials, particularly those aged 25 to 34, are willing to spend the most on a rapid antigen test, with 5% saying they would spend $100 or more (2 percentage point higher than the national average).

For more information, go to https://www.finder.com/ca/covid-19-testing

An all-villa and suite luxury resort is coming to Vietnam

February 4, 2022

IHG Hotels & Resorts will launch the first resort from its upper-luxury brand, Regent Hotels & Resorts in Spring 2022 in Southeast Asia.

Situated off the southwest coast of Vietnam, alongside a UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve and located just 15 minutes from Phu Quoc International Airport, guests will be able to immerse in Regent Phu Quoc’s spectacular 176 suites and 126 villas, set against the serene waterfront backdrop of Long Beach.

Designed by BLINK Design Group, who were inspired by the island’s tropical abundance and tranquil surrounding, the villas at Regent Phu Quoc reveal panoramic views of the pearlescent ocean and sky with a private infinity pool. The resort offers multiple accommodation options perfect for both couples and families, from one-bedroom havens to expansive seven-bedroom ultra-villas, including beach pool villas with direct access to the pristine white beach, sky pool villas situated high in the Sky Wing boasting breathtaking ocean views and lagoon pool villas which overlook the striking vista of the resort’s lagoons.

Guests will be greeted by a modern interpretation of Vietnamese roofs, and a variation of the local traditional wooden truss structural system, known as the Bovi, has been developed into subtle patterns found on screens, carpets and accessories. Another local style known as Gian Nha- comprising small pockets and courtyards within a traditional Vietnamese house- is the inspiration for the courtyards featured in villa designs. The boundaries of indoor and outdoor areas blur through intelligent zoning across the resort as an homage to Gian Nha, providing privacy within a luxurious setting in this evolution of a traditional way of living.

From day to night, six curated venues at Regent Phu Quoc offer multi-sensorial experiences, celebrating the world of gastronomy, creating experiences that encourage guests to immerse themselves in the moment.

Among the six world-class restaurant and bar creations are Oku, an enchanting Franco-Japanese Salon de Boeuf serving the finest beef cuts and sushi at the Omakase counter; Rice Market, an all-day dining restaurant that takes diners on a culinary journey through Southern Vietnam and north towards the border of China; Ocean Club, a Mediterranean inspired beachfront venue that features rum-inspired cocktails and a live in-house DJ.; Lobby Lounge, a relaxing parlor offering all-day fare and beverage specialties that transform together with the time of the day; Bar Jade, a speakeasy for fine artisanal spirits and custom cocktails mixed with fresh local herbs; and Fu Bar, an exclusive sky pool terrace & bar specializing in gin-focused cocktails and inspired local bites.

The Spa at Regent Phu Quoc redefines wellness experiences through innovation and design, offering a curated approach of contemporary and traditional treatments that go beyond the ordinary. Guests can experience a highly personalized wellness itinerary guided by the resident Holistic Wellness Coach. The resort’s holistic wellness programs include Acoustic/Vibrational Therapy complemented by the Welnamis System and Psammo Hot Sand Therapy on an exclusive quartz bed designed by Gharieni, one of the world’s leading spa manufacturers in addition to Biologique Recherche and the Pedi:Mani:Cure concept salon by renowned podiatrist Bastien Gonzalez. The Health Club features a fitness centre, reset meditation studio and rooftop yoga pavilions to recharge and rejuvenate.

Nearly half of Phu Quoc island is a National Park. The northern part of the island is home to 121 square miles of lush tropical forest which has been declared as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, while the southern part of the island is popular for its pristine white sand beaches. Regent Phu Quoc introduces a range of immersive destination experiences manifesting the rustic charm of an idyllic island life.

Explore the heart of Mexico with a visit to the colourful colonial city of Guanajuato

January 31, 2022

Known as the heart of Mexico, Guanajuato is home to boutique hotels, vibrant colonial cities, top notch tequila, gastronomical experiences, Instagrammable views and passionate people.

It’s hard to appreciate or understand just how much time goes into producing a bottle of tequila. That’s why one of the premium tequilas at the Tequila Corralejo distillery boasts the name 99,000 Hours to call attention to the lengthy amount of time it takes to create the añejo (old) spirit.

“Eleven years and three months is the time of the whole process. From when the agave is planted until the harvest, it’s eight to 10 years. Then comes the process in the company [for roasting, distilling] and aging it for one year and a half,” says Nohemi Murillo, e-commerce manager and marketing executive at Tequila Corralejo. “The shape of this bottle is like a tree. It represents that we wait patiently to do something right. We are passionate and proud of the final result. We are so proud of our tequilas.”

The distillery is housed in a hacienda that’s roughly 1.5 hours from Guanajuato City and two hours from San Miguel de Allende, two colonial cities that are a must to visit in Guanajuato, which is also the name of the Mexican state.

Here, a walking tour (free guided tours are available daily) reveals more insight into the process of making tequila, which can only be made using blue agave. Notably, you have to pass through a confessional to get to the storage area for Tequila Corralejo’s best tequilas, including 99,000 Hours.

The hacienda is open 365 days a year and produces its own bottles so along with an impressive collection of tequilas and whiskey to choose from, it’s an ideal spot to pick up glassware like vases and shot glasses.

Murillo’s tour ends by sharing the product that’s at the heart of the business — the tequila that’s 99,000 hours in the making. With a smile on her face, she eagerly distributes a sample to everyone, passionately describing its smooth flavour profile.

This passion winds up being a common theme across the people we encounter along the way over the next week across Guanajuato, from tour guides to restaurant owners to artists. Along with the highlights of the destinations themselves, it’s arguably the charm of the people that make the region known as The Heart of Mexico so special.

It’s easy to see why San Miguel de Allende has become a popular spot for North American travellers. This city has a thriving culinary scene, delightful colonial Spanish architecture and photogenic boutique hotels.

While Guanajuato City isn’t yet all well known in the Canadian market — it likely won’t be that way for long. For anyone looking for an alternative to their beach getaways or to tag on an authentic destination to a sunny stay, this UNESCO designated city offers something for everyone. With over 3,200 alleys to meander through, it’s indeed a city that’s best discovered by foot — and there’s a photo opportunity around every corner. For a stunning view of Guanajuato from above, take the funicular or steps up to Al Pipila monument. From below, the vibrant city almost appears toylike.

Boutique luxury hotels are the norm across Guanajuato. In Guanajuato City, a great option is Casa del Rector, which has an awesome courtyard restaurant and a hard to top view of the colourful city from its rooftop bar. The boutique hotel also offers experiences like tequila and chocolate tasting with Jonathan Martinez of Xocola-T. Be prepared for chocolates with a twist — his creations have some unexpected ingredients like grasshoppers or fried pork skin, which pair surprisingly well with the chocolates.

Another unique choice is Villa María Cristina, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. The luxury villa has nineteenth-century roots and is like a labyrinth of discovery. For an Instagrammable stay near the tequila farms and plantations of Penjamo, look no further than Real de Piedra Hotel. If it looks straight out of a luxe magazine, it’s because the 20 room boutique hotel is owned by an interior decorator. For a modern hotel that’s steps away from the cobblestone street featuring one of the most iconic views of San Miguel, check into Hotel Matilda. Whether or not you spend the night, be sure to visit the rooftop Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende for delicious tacos and spectacular views of the city.

Travellers are drawn to Guanajuato for its boutique hotels, Spanish colonial architecture, gastronomical experiences and Instagrammable cities, but somewhere along the route you’ll discover it’s about so much more.

This luxury train will take you to 14 magical destinations across Europe in style

January 26, 2022

More than 150 years ago, Georges Nagelmackers turned a dream into a reality when he launched the first luxury Orient Express train. Soon, Orient Express will head back on track to offer travellers an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most beloved countries: Italy.

The Orient Express La Dolce Vita will welcome its first passengers in 2023. Six trains will embark through several iconic itineraries across 14 regions and beyond, including three international destinations from Rome to Paris, Istanbul and Split.

A magical stopover in Rome will feature the very first Orient Express Hotel, Minerva, scheduled to open in 2024.

The concept for the new Orient Express La Dolce Vita trains pay tribute to “La Dolce Vita”, a historical period of glamour, joie de vivre and artistic fervour in Italy during the 1960s.

With support from Accor, La Dolce Vita train’s official hospitality partner, and thanks to the partnership with Trenitalia and Fondazione FS Italiane, the journey invites passengers to travel through more than 16,000 kilometres of workable railway lines – 7,000 kilometres of which are not electrified and are vestiges of Italy’s storied history.

The Orient Express La Dolce Vita offers a new way of experiencing the country: an environmentally-friendly adventure where forgotten roads are explored, hidden treasures discovered and where architectural triumphs take centre stage.

Designed by Dimorestudio, the global architectural and design studio founded by Emiliano Salci and Britt Moran in 2003, the Orient Express La Dolce Vita train embodies the Italian art of living and all its beautiful traditions with a more contemporary spirit of travel.

The train’s sumptuous decor will adorn 12 Deluxe cabins, 18 Suites, and one Honour Suite and restaurant, all boldly celebrating the craftsmanship, design and creativity of the 1960s and 1970s.

In collaboration with renowned local and international chefs and sommeliers, travellers will experience five-star service on board, savouring the beauty and excellence of “Made in Italy” through award-winning Italian wines and exclusive haute cuisine.

Before departure at the Roma Termini station, the Orient Express executive lounge will welcome passengers offering them a selection of refreshments in a convivial and elegant space, complete with dedicated services and staff to assist them.

The itineraries have been chosen to create unique travel experiences, all capable of awakening our five senses. Most will start in Italy, revealing the wonders of the Alps, the bucolic countryside, or the paradisiacal beaches of southern Italy. In addition, three dedicated itineraries will take you through eight countries, linking Rome to Paris, Istanbul, and Split.

You can finally fly around the world in 24 days on a Four Seasons private jet

January 25, 2022

As travellers look forward to embarking on long-awaited adventures, leading luxury hospitality company Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts announces the 2023 departures of African Wonders, a family-friendly Private Jet journey; Timeless Encounters, a returning favourite itinerary; and International Intrigue, a 24-day adventure, following record interest in the Four Seasons Private Jet 2022 line-up.

Travellers interested in booking the luxury adventure of a lifetime are invited to click here for a closer look at the exclusive journeys to some of the world’s most captivating destinations on offer.

With all-time high demand and unprecedented sellout pace, the expertly curated itineraries will allow Four Seasons passengers to seamlessly explore a collection of bucket-list destinations, removing the stress of multiple commercial flights, layovers and delays. More opportunities await as the full line-up of 2023 itineraries is announced in the coming months.

African Wonders, Seven Awe-Inspiring Destinations Over 13 Remarkable Days

Experience the majestic landscapes of Africa on a magnificent 13-day family-friendly adventure, ideally timed over school breaks for a holiday to remember. From exhilarating wildlife excursions in Rwanda to the ancient pyramids of Egypt, travellers of all ages will experience an enriching blend of natural wonders and stunning city adventures.

The African Wonders itinerary is a family-friendly adventure that begins in 2023.

Two African Wonders journeys are planned for 2023. The first is scheduled to take flight December 28, 2022 – January 9, 2023 and is currently wait list only, with the second departing in August 2023.

August 1 – 13, 2023 – Athens, Greece – The Pyramids, Egypt (day trip) – Serengeti, Tanzania – Mauritius – Rwanda – Victoria Falls, Zambia (day trip) – Johannesburg, South Africa

Begin the trip of a lifetime by exploring the historic heart of Athens on a private guided tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon. Next, visit the ancient Pyramids of Giza in Egypt to explore curiosities that have captured the imaginations of visitors for millennia. Celebrate magical moments with a torchlit dinner in the savannah, complete with sundowners and live entertainment in Serengeti National Park under the protection of Masai warriors.

In Mauritius, explore the island’s protected lagoons by kayak, snorkel through the coral reefs, or take a cooking class with an expert Four Seasons chef. In the lush forests of Rwanda, embark on a gorilla trek with local scientists and veterinarians caring for the country’s endangered primates. Enjoy a day trip to Zambia’s Victoria Falls, known to locals as “the smoke that thunders.” Conclude with a final stop and farewell brunch in Johannesburg before heading home, or continue on to another captivating destination.

As part of the African Wonders journey, additional activities can be tailored to the interests and age of each guest in concert with Four Seasons concierge teams in each destination.

The African Wonders Itinerary includes a visit to the pyramids of Egypt.

An Enduring Favourite: Timeless Encounters, An Around-the-World Journey in 24 Days

The longest-running Four Seasons Private Jet journey is back, featuring a showcase of spectacular natural beauty, enduring cultural traditions, inspiring urban experiences and iconic wonders.

April 17 – May 10, 2023 – Oahu, USA – Bora Bora – Sydney, Australia – Bali, Indonesia – Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, Thailand – Taj Mahal, India (day trip) – Dubai, UAE – Florence, Italy – London, England

Starting off in Hawaii, embark on a spiritual journey to the westernmost tip of Oahu to hear tales from a revered storyteller followed by a traditional hula. Enjoy a guided snorkel safari in Bora Bora before jetting off to Australia to go backstage at the Sydney Opera House.

Take a batik painting class or go rafting on Bali’s longest river and enjoy visiting Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, the former capitals of the ancient Lanna kingdom in Thailand, offering transcendent temples, jungle landscapes and a culture of enduring traditions. Enjoy a day trip to the Taj Mahal without long lines and airport transfers courtesy of a private airport in Agra.

In Dubai, savour spectacular sunset views over the Arabian Gulf from the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. In Florence, sample the region’s exquisite cuisine and enjoy a private viewing of Michelangelo’s David. Finally, celebrate a journey well-travelled in London by heading backstage for a show at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

A stop in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is part of the Timeless Encounters itinerary.

Seeking Out Serenity: International Intrigue, Nine Destinations, One Remarkable Journey

March 3 to 26, 2023 – Seattle, USA – Kyoto, Japan – Hoi An, Vietnam – Maldives – Serengeti, Tanzania – Marrakech, Morocco – Budapest, Hungary – St. Petersburg, Russia – Paris, France

Experience cultural immersion on a spectacular voyage across four continents. From a glimpse inside Russia’s lavish imperial past to a samurai sword lesson in Kyoto, this is a journey designed to stimulate the senses.

The abovementioned departures follow three sold out Private Jet itineraries in 2022: World of Adventures 2022, Ancient Explorer September 2022, and Ancient Explorer October 2022. However, space remains on Uncharted Discovery 2022, an all-new expedition through the enchanting southern hemisphere exploring the rugged wonders of Antarctica, the mysteries of majestic Machu Picchu, and the vibrant rhythms and flavours of South America.

Visit fourseasons.com/privatejet for more information and book today.

This luxury hotel in Ibiza has an on-site spa devoted to anti-aging treatments

January 24, 2022

This November, Six Senses Ibiza is launching a series of longevity treatments and programs in collaboration with RoseBar, with a view to opening a one-of-a-kind longevity center in May 2022. It combines diagnostics with nutritional guidance and anti-aging treatments to achieve greater vitality, clarity of mind, and a youthful appearance at any age.

Along with its own scientific advisory board, RoseBar has teamed up with a world-class biotech company and AI specialist. Using advanced diagnostic algorithms, RoseBar explores next generation anti-aging treatments and nutraceuticals.

“Working with RoseBar, we believe longevity does not need to be served in a clinical environment,” says Anna Bjurstam, Six Senses Wellness Pioneer. “That’s why our longevity programs are a mix of science and spiritual work that can be integrated into a client’s daily life or stay at Six Senses Ibiza. Not only does this mean you’re surrounded by beautiful nature, but you can also access complementary treatments and therapies within our Six Senses Spa, or bespoke menus to amplify the benefits. It’s a holistic way to stretch your prime years and maximize your strength, energy and love of life.”

With 116 guest rooms and suites, Six Senses Ibiza combines a secluded bay setting with a comprehensive range of amenities and seasonal programming, farm-to-table dining, music, art, sustainable fashion, culture, and wellness. Each experience is inspired by the traditions and values of the island’s north to deliver an intentional destination that provokes meaningful moments of community, spirituality and celebration.

The RoseBar Essential Diagnostic starts from EUR 1,050, with multi-day programs starting from EUR 2,550.

The 25Hours Hotel in Florence, Italy, forces guests to spend a night in Heaven or Hell

January 20, 2022

A new opening by 25hours Hotels in Florence, Italy is anything but cookie cutter — giving guests the chance to stay in Heaven or Hell.

Inspired by Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy, rooms at 25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino are divided into two styles: Inferno and Paradiso. Milan-based designer Paola Navone created the red Inferno rooms with velvet curtains and black bed linen.

The Paradiso spaces are meant to be cloud-white retreats with ethereal blue accents.

The stylish 171 room property features a classic Negroni bar, a sauna with relaxation room, a gym, a seasonal Italian restaurant focusing on Tuscan cuisine, a typical alimentari – a grocery store for the neighbourhood, and a lively piazza that serves a small selection of food and drinks to suit the time of day.

The hotel, which represents the brand’s first property in Italy, is in close proximity to Ponte Vecchio, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the main train station. Whether you opt for heaven or hell, the character of 25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino makes for a memorable and highly photogenic place to spend the night.

To learn more about the 25hours Hotel San Paolino, click here.

Five post-pandemic travel trends you’ll see more of this year

January 17, 2022

As we navigate our “new normal”, it’s obvious that so much has changed, including travel.

Here are five travel trends to watch in 2022.

Romantic travel

Hugely popular prior to the pandemic, destination weddings are expected to make a significant comeback, as countries around the world continue their trajectory towards a high vaccination rate. Many couples were forced to postpone their big day when countries closed their borders and cracked down on visitor arrivals, and as a result, some of these weddings are more than two years in the making! While destination weddings tended to be on the smaller side, now, most international wedding venues can accommodate anywhere from 50 to 250 guests and provide a selection of both indoor and outdoor venue options.

Revenge travel

After two years of staying home, travellers are now likely willing to pay more for the experience they want. Frequent travellers who were unable to travel as a result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions may be eager to splurge on luxurious experiences that include everything from boutique hotels, gourmet dining, and one-of-a-kind experiences. Richard Villeneuve, president of travel agency Voyages en Direct, says that price is no longer the most important factor driving bookings and his clients have a budget that’s 25-35 per cent more than they would have invested in holidays prior to the pandemic. After not travelling for such a lengthy period of time, those who can finally hop on a plane are eager to make the trip count!

Bubble travel

While group travel was often a popular choice, “bubble travel” is predicted to be the new way to travel with friends and family. Group travel could mean you are travelling with strangers from all over the world, but bubble travel ensures you’re with people you know, and who were likely in your social circles throughout the course of the pandemic.

Workation travel

In most workplaces, what started as a work-from-home model has evolved into a “work from anywhere” model. So long as an employee has the tools required to do their job appropriately, like a laptop, cell phone, and reliable internet connection, it really doesn’t matter if you’re working from your house in North America, or from a resort down in the Caribbean. Workation-style travel also allows employees to enjoy a destination without using up all of their vacation days, which are typically 10-15 per year.

Wellness travel

Prioritizing one’s mental health and practicing self-care has become increasingly important during the pandemic, especially in countries who continue to practice tough restrictions, lockdowns, and other COVID-19 health and safety protocols. In 2022, expect to see more vacations centred around personal wellbeing— think yoga retreats, solo travel, spa retreats, and even silent retreats.