Renee Morrison, Author at OFFSHORE

Haute Couture Hotels

January 13, 2026

From Christian Louboutin’s red-soled retreat in Portugal to Missoni’s rooftop pool takeover in Texas, fashion’s biggest names are bringing their aesthetic to the world of hospitality.

By Erica Commisso

Fashion’s most recognizable houses are stepping beyond boutiques and ateliers, carving out a stylish new niche in hospitality. Whether through sun-splashed rooftop pop-ups, bespoke restaurants, or full-fledged hotels, these brands are crafting experiences as exclusive as their runway designs.

Armani may have been among the first to blur the line between haute couture and high hospitality—opening its namesake hotels in Dubai in 2010 and Milan a year later—but a new wave of labels is following suit, each putting its own spin on the idea of living the brand.

Take Christian Louboutin, whose first hotel, Vermelho (featured above), debuted in the quiet Portuguese village of Melides, just south of Lisbon. The 13-room property is an exuberant reflection of the designer’s signature flair: the iconic red heel reimagined through tiles, beams, and upholstery. Yet, for all its glamour, the space remains grounded in local culture, blending artisanal Portuguese craftsmanship with Louboutin’s playful sensibility—a European counterpart to Yves Saint Laurent’s legendary Marrakech oasis.

Meanwhile, Ferrari is channeling its racing-red prestige into fine dining. At Cavallino restaurant in Maranello, steps from the factory and Gestione Sportiva racing department, acclaimed chef Massimo Bottura’s Italian classics are served up with the precision of a Formula 1 pit crew. The tasting menu celebrates regional icons like Parmigiano Reggiano and Emilia Romagna wines, a far cry from the humble company canteen Enzo Ferrari opened in 1950. Since its 2021 redesign, Cavallino has become a destination in its own right for culinary-minded car enthusiasts.

This past year also brought a flurry of beach clubs and poolside collaborations. Longchamp landed in Forte dei Marmi, Italy, with a seaside outpost that captures the breezy elegance of the French Riviera. In Dallas, Missoni partnered with Hôtel Swexan to create a rooftop escape awash in the brand’s iconic zigzag prints. Guests sip Malfy Gin Spritzes poolside, enjoy curated in-suite gifts, and bask in the kind of effortless glamour usually reserved for the Mediterranean. “This partnership is the perfect fit since both Missoni and Hôtel Swexan are family-owned, devoted to craftsmanship and timeless sophistication,” says Hôtel Swexan general manager Julian Payne.

Elsewhere, designers made their mark from the Hamptons to Ibiza. Michael Kors and Chanel hosted posh summer activations in New York’s chicest coastal enclave. Dolce & Gabbana’s DG Resort returned to Taormina and Saint-Tropez, Jacquemus took over Monte-Carlo Beach, and Louis Vuitton debuted a Saint-Tropez culinary pop-up with Michelin-starred chefs Arnaud Donckele and Maxime Frédéric. Lacoste also entered the scene, opening a café in Monte Carlo that brings its preppy-sporty heritage to life, right down to the crocodile-green details.

As the lines between fashion, travel, and lifestyle continue to blur, one thing is clear: luxury today is about more than what you wear. It’s about where you stay, what you taste, and how you can live inside the brand’s world—even just for a night.

Discover Timeless Havana with WestJet Vacations

January 13, 2026

In Cuba's capital, colonial grandeur meets contemporary sophistication—and new direct flights from Toronto make this cultural treasure more accessible than ever.

With its baroque facades, vintage Cadillacs, and the infectious rhythm of salsa spilling from every doorway, Havana feels like stepping into a living museum where time moves to its own beat. This UNESCO World Heritage city offers an intoxicating blend of revolutionary history, architectural splendour, and refined experiences that few Caribbean destinations can match.

This season, WestJet Vacations makes Cuba’s crown jewel more convenient to reach with new direct flights from Toronto, opening the door to one of the Caribbean’s most culturally rich destinations.

Where Time Stands Beautifully Still

Havana’s magnetism lies in its remarkable preservation of five centuries of architectural evolution. In Old Havana, cobblestone streets wind past restored colonial palaces, now housing boutique hotels and world-class restaurants. The Gran Teatro de La Habana hosts world-renowned ballet performances, while the newly renovated Capitolio building stands as testament to the city’s renewed commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

Sophisticated Comfort Redefined

Cuba’s hospitality landscape has evolved dramatically, with historic properties now offering convenient modern-day amenities. Boutique hotels occupy colonial mansions, like the Mystique Habana by Royalton, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers impressive views in the city’s historic center. For a more modern experience in the historic city centre, stay at Royalton Habana, featuring five on-site restaurants and an infinity pool overlooking the sea.

Authentic Encounters Await

For sophisticated travellers seeking authentic cultural engagement, Havana delivers experiences that go far beyond typical tourist attractions. Private tours of Ernest Hemingway’s preserved estate offer insights into the Nobel laureate’s Cuban years, while exclusive access to recording studios provides encounters with musicians carrying forward Cuba’s legendary musical traditions.

The Perfect Escape

What sets Havana apart isn’t just its undeniable charm or its cultural richness, but the way refinement and authenticity intertwine seamlessly. Here, mornings might begin with expertly crafted café cubano on a private terrace overlooking the harbour, followed by guided explorations of architectural gems, and evenings that flow naturally from sophisticated dining to impromptu salsa sessions in atmospheric jazz clubs.

In Havana, premium experiences aren’t about opulence—they’re about access to moments that money can’t typically buy, delivered with the warmth and artistry that defines Cuban hospitality.

Discover this remarkable destination with a flight and hotel package from WestJet Vacations.

Checking In: Hotel Playa Luxury Cayo Guillermo, Cuba

January 13, 2026

From overwater bungalows to beachside lobster lunches, this is Cuba done differently.

By Mitch McClung

Arriving in the dark might not seem ideal, but it’s actually the best way to experience Hotel Playa Luxury Cayo Guillermo. When you wake up, sunlight streams through the windows and the ocean shimmers just outside your door. The resort is only a short drive from the airport, yet it feels tucked away from the rest of Cuba—quieter, calmer, and intentionally different. Instead of the usual resort soundtrack of mariachis and cocktails by the dozen, guests are greeted by the sound of a grand piano in the lobby.

Playa Luxury aims to redefine what a high-end Cuban stay can be. Its six over-water bungalows are among the only ones in the country, surrounded by nothing but sea and sky. Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the space with light while keeping it private from the curious boardwalk passersby. Inside, the design is simple and soothing: natural wood tones, linen bedding, and a spa-like bathroom with a soaking tub overlooking the ocean. Sunset baths quickly become part of the routine.

Each bungalow opens onto a private deck with an infinity pool, lounge chairs and a shaded cabana. It’s easy to spend the day there, swimming, reading, or just watching the waves. But it’s worth following the winding wooden walkway to Playa Pica Beach, a stretch of white sand framed by volcanic rock and gentle surf. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, and proof that Cuba still has plenty of surprises.

Dining is another highlight. Lunch might be lobster grilled over coals and served with fresh fruit, or a casual burger and fries with a beach view. The four restaurants focus on fresh ingredients and flavourful simplicity, showcasing Cuba’s produce in a modern way.

Guests can (and should) explore beyond the resort. Take a jeep ride through the jungle, sail along the coast to snorkel with tropical fish, or stop at a sandbar for drinks in the shallow water. If you’d rather stay dry, the ocean is clear enough to watch from the deck.

On departure day, sip a final coffee on your terrace while your luggage makes its way to the lobby. Playa Luxury’s private airport transfer arrives right on time, but the feeling of serenity lasts long after you leave.

It’s in the Details: Bath salts, bamboo robes and refillable carafes of coconut water make each bungalow feel like a private spa suite.

On the Menu: Don’t miss the lobster grilled over coals and served with tropical fruit salsa and a cold mojito by the beach.

Room to Book: One of the six over-water bungalows with a soaking tub, private infinity pool and panoramic ocean views.

What to Do Nearby: Book a catamaran trip to snorkel the reef and stop at a sandbar for a drink in the shallow water.

The Art of the Stay

January 13, 2026

Canadian interior designer Lesley Wong on trends, travel, and crafting memorable hotel spaces.

By Erica Commisso

Since launching her eponymous studio in 2014, Lesley Wong has evolved from a one-woman operation into a full-fledged hospitality design team. With projects spanning both Canada and the United States, she’s shaped inviting spaces at properties like the Sparrowhawk Canmore and Hilton Whistler Resort.

Here, Wong shares what inspires her, the textures she’s loving now, and the magic behind creating hotels that feel both personal and transportive.

Q: Where do you find inspiration?

A: I draw inspiration directly from the character of the surrounding area, whether that’s the landscape, the local community, or the regional architecture. By weaving these elements into our designs, we create hotels that feel deeply connected to their setting. This not only allows guests to feel fully immersed in the spirit of the destination but also ensures that each property is truly one of a kind, reflecting the distinct identity of its area.

Q: How is designing a hotel different from designing any other space?

A: Designing a hotel is uniquely complex because it must function on many levels at once. Unlike a home, which is tailored to a single lifestyle, or a store, which is focused on a specific transaction, a hotel must serve as both a personal retreat and a communal space. Guests come from all over the world with different expectations, so the design must be welcoming, intuitive, and adaptable. At the same time, it needs to express the spirit of its location and provide a sense of discovery. It’s this balance between comfort and experience, function and storytelling that makes hotel design so distinctive and rewarding.

Q: How do you hope people feel when interacting with your designs?

A: I hope people feel a sense of ease and discovery when they interact with our designs. A hotel should flow intuitively, so that guests never have to think too hard about how to move through a space. It should just feel natural. At the same time, I want them to feel a spark of inspiration, whether it’s through a surprising detail, a thoughtful material choice, or the way a space encourages connection with others. For me, it’s about creating an atmosphere that both calms and excites, leaving guests with an impression that lingers long after their stay.

Q: How did you decide you wanted to be a designer? Why for hotels specifically?

A: Design has always been a passion of mine, even from a young age. As a child, I would spend hours decorating my dollhouses, rearranging tiny rooms until they felt just right. Later, while many of my friends were going out and socializing, I found just as much joy in staying home to experiment with fabrics and create things for my own space. That love of shaping environments never really left me. When I began my career, I worked at a hotel brand, and that experience completely opened my eyes to the world of hospitality design. I was drawn to the complexity and creativity it demands. Hotels aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re about how people feel, move, and connect within a space. From that point on, I knew this was the path for me.

Q: What are some textures and design elements you’re loving right now?

A: Lately, I’ve been inspired by biophilic design, bringing natural elements like greenery, wood, and stone into interiors to create spaces that feel calming and restorative. I love how integrating nature not only adds beauty and texture, but also enhances the overall well-being of guests, making the environment feel alive, welcoming, and deeply connected to its surroundings.

Q: What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about your work?

A: I love what I do so much I actually dream of hotel design—when I eventually fall asleep. Quirky, yes, but I still love it. I absorb ideas from all around me, so I think it’s my brain’s way of processing all the information and creativity.

Your Wildlife Travel Photos Can Support Biodiversity

January 13, 2026

Exodus Adventure Travels just announced a partnership with iNaturalist, expanding its global citizen science program.

In the early morning light of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, before the heat settles and the birds retreat into the reeds, a traveller raises their phone—not to frame the perfect safari shot, but to log a data point. A dragonfly hovers near the water’s edge. A photograph is taken, tagged, uploaded. Somewhere else in the world, a scientist will eventually see it. This is the new frontier of adventure travel: not just witnessing the wild, but contributing to its understanding.

Exodus Adventure Travels just announced a new partnership with iNaturalist, becoming the first travel company globally to integrate one of the world’s largest citizen science platforms into guided adventures. The collaboration represents the newest phase of Exodus’ Citizen Science program, designed to engage travellers directly in biodiversity research while exploring some of the planet’s most wildlife-rich destinations.

As part of the partnership, travellers are encouraged to photograph and document plants, insects, fungi, and animals encountered on their journeys. These observations are then added to iNaturalist’s global biodiversity database, which is used by researchers, scientists, and conservationists worldwide to better understand ecosystems and identify how species and habitats can be protected.

The initiative prioritizes destinations where biodiversity data remains limited, often remote regions that are difficult for scientists to access regularly. By contributing wildlife observations from these locations, travellers help fill critical data gaps that can support conservation efforts on a global scale.

Wildlife tourism has traditionally focused on charismatic megafauna—the lions, elephants, and giraffes that dominate brochures and bucket lists. But biodiversity science depends just as much on documenting the overlooked: insects, fungi, plants, and lesser-known species that quietly sustain ecosystems. Some of the species travellers may help document include globally threatened plants and wildlife, rare dragonflies, elusive mammals, delicate fungi, and lesser-recorded insects. These organisms often lack sufficient data to support their protection.

“Through our new partnership with Exodus, we’re excited to help more people notice and document nature, especially in places where more observations can make a real difference for science and conservation,” says Scott Loarie, Executive Director of iNaturalist.

For travellers, participation is designed to be seamless and optional. The experience remains rooted in immersive exploration, expert guidance, and responsible wildlife encounters. The addition of citizen science simply reframes how travellers engage with what they see, encouraging closer observation and a deeper connection to place.

In this evolving model of adventure travel, a photograph is no longer just a souvenir. It becomes a small but meaningful contribution to understanding and protecting the natural world.

A Slow-Travel Guide to Liguria, Italy

December 29, 2025

Italy’s Riviera reveals its beauty most to those willing to slow down. Here’s a designer's guide to Liguria’s architecture, cuisine and coastal rituals.

Between the French border and La Spezia, Liguria is a postcard of sun-washed villages clinging to the cliffs. Trains rattle along the edge of the Mediterranean, slipping through tunnels, while sea-salted air drifts through open windows.

“I usually over-plan trips, but Liguria calls for a loose itinerary,” says Montreal-based designer Alexandre Lafleur. “Take your time. Enjoy a late morning reading under an olive tree, have a leisurely lunch followed by multiple dips in the sea, and always catch the sunset with an aperitivo in hand.”

Below are his personal recommendations from his latest trip to the Italian Riviera.

Alassio

Tucked between the Ligurian hills and the water, Alassio feels timeless with its striped parasols, faded frescoes and honey-coloured villas. Stay a few steps from the promenade at Casa d’Artista, a three-room bed-and-breakfast in what was formerly a private seaside home. With frescoed walls, antique armchairs and balconies shaded by tasselled umbrellas, it captures the charm of a slower era.

“In the morning, each room gets breakfast in a picnic basket filled with pastries, fruit, and eggs to enjoy in the breakfast room or seafront balcony,” says Lafleur.

Spend the morning walking the Lungomare, then grab a pair of loungers at one of Alassio’s lidos—private beach clubs with striped cabanas, showers and lively seaside restaurants serving fried anchovies and spritzes. For a taste of old-world grandeur, visit the gardens of Villa della Pergola, where wisteria, citrus and jasmine fill the air.

End the day with a Michelin-starred dinner at Nove, the villa’s restaurant. Dishes like goat-cheese agnolotti and sourdough panzanella with green gazpacho are elegant without being fussy, and the best spot to enjoy them is from the terrace overlooking the sea.

Cavi & Sestri Levante

Just a short train ride east, make your home base at Casa Pernice, a lovingly restored farmhouse in Cavi di Lavagna, where owners Giorgia and Davide have created a laid-back, design-forward escape. The rooms feel effortlessly chic with linen-draped beds, vintage ceramics, and sunlight spilling across old terracotta floors. Mornings start with homemade pastries and eggs from their hens, followed by a stroll down to Bagni Mignon, their retro-chic beach club on the pebbled shore.

Cavi sits between the polished resort town of Sestri Levante and the wild beauty of Portofino National Park. Take a ferry to San Fruttuoso, a tiny monastery bay framed by forested cliffs, where the 13th-century abbey is reachable only by water or a long coastal hike. The reward is a swim in clear turquoise water and lunch at Da Laura—lasagnette verde with pesto, fritto misto and a chilled white wine under the olive trees.

Back in Sestri Levante, stop by Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence), and do as the locals do: Take an evening swim before heading to Rezzano or Balin for fresh seafood, pasta, and a glass of Vermentino.

Genoa

Once a powerful maritime republic, Genoa is a city of contrasts, with Renaissance palaces beside narrow alleys and marble staircases leading to quiet courtyards.

Wander through the caruggi, Genoa’s medieval lanes where artisans still make focaccia and brass fixtures by hand. Visit the Palazzi dei Rolli, a UNESCO-listed set of 16th- and 17th-century noble homes, or stroll Via Garibaldi, lined with painted façades and ornate balconies. Pause for an espresso at an old-world café before catching the train back.

Most of Liguria’s coastline is connected by rail, making car-free travel easy and scenic. Every town along the route, from Camogli to Laigueglia, offers its own version of seaside life—the morning markets, the scent of salt and citrus, the fresh seafood. It’s a rhythm you’ll fall into quickly, and one that’s hard to leave behind.

The List

Stay Casa d’Artista (Alassio); Casa Pernice (Cavi)

Eat Nove (Alassio); Terrazza Praié (Laigueglia); Da Laura (San Fruttuoso)

Do Ferry to San Fruttuoso; Swim at Baia del Silenzio; Explore Genoa’s Palazzi dei Rolli

Drink A Hugo Spritz at lunch; a glass of chilled Vermentino at sunset

Bring Back Ligurian olive oil, hand-painted ceramics, Genovese pesto, or a woven market bag

Thinking of the Trip of a Lifetime? Think Thailand

December 29, 2025

With Air Canada’s year-round service from Vancouver to Bangkok, the journey to the Land of Smiles is as seamless and enjoyable as ever.

When the days are short and the air is crisp, few places feel more enticing than Thailand. A land where golden temples meet turquoise waters, where every meal is a revelation, and where the warmth of the people mirrors the climate itself. Yet Thailand’s appeal extends well beyond the winter months. From the vibrant energy of Bangkok to the quiet beaches of Krabi and the misty hills of Chiang Mai, this is a destination that shines in every season.

Now, travellers can experience it all with ease thanks to Air Canada’s year-round service between Vancouver and Bangkok, operating three times weekly. Originally introduced for the winter travel season, this route has quickly become a gateway for Canadians seeking authentic luxury, cultural discovery and the promise of sunshine when they need it most.

For discerning travellers and the advisors who guide them, that year-round availability opens a world of opportunity. Winter brings perfect weather for island escapes and cultural exploration, while spring and summer reward those who prefer fewer crowds, lush landscapes and exceptional value. With the ability to plan bespoke itineraries at any time of year, tailored experiences suit the pace of life and not the pages of a calendar.

Whenever they choose to take off, travellers can count on Air Canada’s hallmark comfort and attention to detail from the moment they depart. The experience begins on board with a choice of three cabin classes—Economy Class, Premium Economy and Air Canada Signature Class—each designed to enhance the journey in its own way.

In Economy Class, thoughtful touches such as complimentary meals and beverages, ergonomic seating and hundreds of hours of in-flight entertainment make the long-haul flight as enjoyable as the destination itself. Premium Economy offers additional space, upgraded dining and attentive service for travellers who value both practicality and comfort.

For those looking to arrive fully refreshed, Air Canada Signature Class delivers an unmatched combination of privacy, comfort and service. Lie-flat pods offer direct aisle access and restful sleep. Menus inspired by international flavours are paired with sommelier-curated wine selections, and exclusive amenities provide the finishing touches to an elevated experience. On the ground, Maple Leaf Lounge access, Priority Airport Services and streamlined connections ensure a seamless journey from check-in to arrival.

Upon landing, Bangkok greets visitors with its trademark blend of energy and elegance. A choice of curated itineraries balances urban vibrancy with restorative calm: Michelin-starred dining and riverside night markets, wellness retreats and island-hopping adventures, sacred temples and contemporary design hotels. The options are endless, and with Air Canada’s extensive network and interline partnerships, travellers can extend their journeys beyond Thailand to nearby must-see Asian destinations such as Cambodia, Vietnam and Singapore, each offering its own blend of history, culture and contemporary allure.

Thailand also offers endless opportunities for discovery for travellers seeking a more bespoke experience, whether that’s a private boat gliding across the limestone cliffs of Phang Nga Bay, a stay at a boutique hideaway in Chiang Rai surrounded by teak forests, or a spa weekend overlooking rice paddies where every detail is designed for renewal. From curated culinary tours to secluded wellness retreats, Thailand invites travellers to connect deeply with both place and self.

With Air Canada now operating year-round Vancouver to Bangkok flights, experiences that invite connection, curiosity and lasting memory are never out of reach. Whether escaping the chill of a Canadian winter or embracing Thailand’s quieter summer rhythm, travellers can count on reliable service, world-class comfort and the assurance of flying with Canada’s leading provider of international service: a trusted partner in crafting journeys as seamless as they are unforgettable.

Learn more and book your trip of a lifetime to Thailand at AirCanada.com.

10 Trends Shaping Luxury Travel in 2026, According to the Virtuoso Luxe Trend Report

December 29, 2025

From crowd-free itineraries to multigenerational adventures, the 2026 Virtuoso Luxe Trend Report reveals how high-end travel is becoming more personal, purposeful, and experience-driven.

In an era where luxury means more than fine hotels and first-class flights, the newly released 2026 Virtuoso Luxe Trend Report offers a window into how affluent travellers are planning to explore the world in the year ahead. Drawing on insights from more than 2,400 travel advisors across 58 countries within the Virtuoso network, the report looks beyond destinations alone, focusing instead on how people want to travel.

The big takeaway from the 2026 report is that luxury travel is becoming more personal and more intentional. Travellers are still willing to invest, but they want those investments to translate into experiences that feel meaningful, restorative, and genuinely memorable — not just impressive on paper.

Top Travel Trends to Watch

According to the report, ten key motivations are shaping how luxury travellers plan their journeys in the year ahead:

Family and Multigenerational Travel
Trips are increasingly designed to be shared, with families travelling together across generations to create lasting memories.
Active and Adventure Travel
From remote hikes to wildlife encounters, adventure remains central — especially when paired with comfort, expertise, and thoughtful pacing.
Cultural Immersion and Authenticity
Travellers are prioritizing experiences that offer real insight into local traditions, food, and communities.
Cruising and Expedition Voyages
Ocean, river, and expedition cruising continue to grow, with a stronger focus on meaningful time ashore.
Gastronomy and Spirits Travel
Food and drink are no longer just part of the journey — they’re often the reason for choosing a destination in the first place.

Together, these trends point to a larger shift: luxury travel is moving away from checklist tourism and toward experiences that feel story-worthy and deeply personal.

Where Travellers Are Heading in 2026

Italy, Japan, Greece, France, and Croatia continue to lead as the most-requested destinations, offering a mix of culture, cuisine, history, and scenery that appeals across traveller types. Canada also makes the top 10, reflecting growing interest in wide-open landscapes paired with vibrant urban culture.

At the same time, emerging destinations are gaining ground. Places like Iceland, Antarctica, and Morocco are attracting travellers looking for experiences that feel fresh, uncrowded, and emotionally resonant.

How Travellers Have Changed

Beyond destinations, the report highlights several mindset shifts shaping luxury travel today:

Crowd Control Is the New Luxury
Avoiding peak crowds has become a priority, with travellers opting for shoulder seasons, alternative routes, and quieter regions to preserve a sense of calm.

Experience Drives Inspiration
Film, television, and social media continue to influence where people want to go, sparking interest in destinations seen on screen and shared online.

All-Inclusive, Reimagined
Today’s all-inclusive experience is about freedom, not limitation — with private transfers, elevated dining, and bespoke excursions replacing the one-size-fits-all model.

Wellness Is Now Core to Travel
Wellness is no longer a niche category. From spa-focused escapes to nature-led retreats, restorative travel experiences are increasingly central, particularly for solo travellers and couples.

What ultimately emerges from the 2026 Virtuoso Luxe Trend Report isn’t a checklist of places to visit, but a broader philosophy. Luxury travel in 2026 is less about how many destinations you can fit into a year, and more about how deeply you experience each one.

Kensington’s Top Luxury Travel Destinations for 2026

December 29, 2025

Ancient civilizations, wild frontiers, and quietly compelling cities are rising to the top as luxury travellers rethink where they want to go in 2026.

Kensington has released its list of top trending destinations for 2026, drawing on internal booking data and insights from its global team of destination experts. Here’s a look at the destinations rising to the top – and why they matter right now.

Egypt (pictured above) is leading the list, with demand up more than 400 percent. The opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum has reignited interest, but the real draw is the depth of experience. Travellers are exploring the pyramids, Luxor, and Karnak alongside private Egyptologists who bring ancient history to life through stories rather than statistics. Add in private food tours and cooking classes, and Egypt becomes as sensory as it is monumental.

Kenya continues to be one of the most emotionally powerful trips travellers can take. Demand is up more than 60 percent year over year, driven by the timeless appeal of safari. From families to retirees, travellers are drawn to the Masai Mara and surrounding regions for close encounters with wildlife and vast, cinematic landscapes. Kensington is also seeing strong interest in pairing Kenya with Egypt – a single journey that spans millennia of history and wildly different worlds.

Bhutan remains one of the most transformative destinations on the planet, and interest is growing through Kensington Expeditions. These journeys focus on sustainability, cultural immersion, and personal enrichment. Days might include meditation, forest bathing, cycling through mountain valleys, or receiving a private blessing from local monks. It’s slow, intentional travel that leaves a lasting imprint.

Across Norway and the Nordic region, travellers are leaning into nature-forward experiences with private access. Think exploring dramatic fjords by Zodiac, diving into Copenhagen’s design and Viking history, or joining an Arctic expedition timed to witness a solar eclipse. These trips balance raw landscapes with thoughtful, expert-led planning.

In Asia, Vietnam is gaining serious momentum, with growth nearing 70 percent. Travellers are drawn to its energy – the food, the markets, the history, and the warmth of daily life. Vietnam offers cultural immersion that feels immediate and genuine, especially when experienced alongside knowledgeable local guides.

China is also seeing renewed interest, helped by new visa-free options for Canadian travellers. Demand is rising as travellers rediscover the country’s mix of ancient landmarks and modern cities, from Beijing and Xi’an to Shanghai, all made more accessible through expert-led itineraries.

Costa Rica, long loved for its biodiversity, is being rediscovered from the water. Private yacht journeys allow travellers to reach secluded beaches and marine-rich areas inaccessible by land. The yacht becomes a floating home base, with each day tailored to the guest – swimming, snorkelling, wildlife watching, or simply slowing down.

Peru continues to stand out as a “complete” destination. With demand doubling in the past year, it appeals thanks to direct flights, manageable travel times, and an incredible range of experiences – from Machu Picchu and Cusco to Lima’s world-class dining scene and the Amazon. It’s a destination that offers depth without complexity.

Closer to home, Toronto is stepping onto the global stage as a World Cup host city. Beyond the matches, Kensington is curating VIP experiences that showcase the city’s personality – private stadium transfers, helicopter flights over Lake Ontario, behind-the-scenes neighbourhood tours, and hard-to-get restaurant reservations.

Alaska, explored by luxury cruise, is also surging, with bookings up 125 percent. Sailing the Inside Passage offers an intimate way to experience glaciers, wildlife, and remote landscapes, often paired with pre- or post-cruise experiences in Western Canada like glacier flights or wine tours in British Columbia.

Finally, Croatia continues its rise as one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations. Whether explored by private yacht or on land, travellers are drawn to its island-hopping ease, historic cities like Dubrovnik, and vineyard-rich regions along the Dalmatian Coast – all without the crowds of Western Europe.

With travellers continuing to value authenticity, access, and ease, 2026 is shaping up to be a standout year for journeys that are not just beautiful, but deeply meaningful.

Escape Winter With These New Canadian Sun Routes

December 29, 2025

New direct flights are expanding winter escape options across the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America.

As winter settles in, Canadian travellers have more reasons than ever to look south. Over the past few months — and with a few more routes launching imminently — airlines have rolled out a wave of new sun destinations from Canadian airports, expanding nonstop access to beach favourites, cultural capitals and resort regions across Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America.

This winter’s flight network that goes well beyond the usual snowbird routes, with new options departing not just from Toronto and Montreal, but from cities like Ottawa and Halifax as well.

Porter Airlines Brings Sun Flying to Ottawa and Toronto

Porter Airlines has made one of the most notable moves this season, launching a slate of new winter sun routes that significantly expand leisure travel options from Eastern Canada.

From Ottawa, travellers now have direct access to several warm-weather destinations that previously required connections. New nonstop flights link the capital to Nassau and Grand Cayman in the Caribbean, as well as Cancún and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico and Liberia in Costa Rica — a gateway to the country’s Pacific beaches and national parks.

Porter has also added similar sun routes from Toronto Pearson, offering nonstop service to the same mix of Caribbean and Mexican destinations, along with Costa Rica. For travellers accustomed to long layovers or indirect routings, these flights represent a meaningful upgrade in convenience — particularly for winter getaways and family travel.

WestJet Expands Access to the Caribbean and Beyond

WestJet is also leaning into winter sun demand with new seasonal routes that broaden access to the Caribbean and Latin America. A new nonstop flight from Toronto to Havana opens the door to Cuba’s capital, pairing culture, history and nearby beach escapes in a single destination.

Out west, WestJet has expanded its Latin American footprint with new seasonal service from Calgary to destinations in Mexico and Central America, reinforcing the city’s role as a major western gateway for sun travel. These additions complement the airline’s already extensive winter schedule and reflect continued interest in destinations that offer more than just beach time.

Air Canada Grows Its Winter Sun Network

Air Canada has rounded out the season with a broad expansion of its winter schedule, adding new and seasonal routes across the Caribbean, Mexico and Latin America. Canadian travellers now have direct access to destinations such as Martinique, Jamaica and the Bahamas from a wider range of departure cities, along with new links to South American hubs and cultural centres.

This expanded network reflects a growing appetite for longer, experience-driven winter trips — whether that means pairing beaches with food and culture, or exploring destinations that feel less familiar than the classic all-inclusive circuit.

What This Means for Your Winter Travel

These new routes signal a shift in how Canadians travel south for the winter. More nonstop flights reduce travel time and friction, while a broader mix of destinations makes it easier to tailor trips around personal interests — from surf and wellness in Costa Rica to culture-forward city breaks in the Caribbean.

Maybe most notably, travellers departing from cities beyond Canada’s largest hubs now have better access to winter sun than ever before. For anyone looking to trade snow boots for sandals this season, the options have never looked brighter.