Aman gets ready to open its first location in the Bahamas, Amancaya

May 7, 2025 No Comments

Aman recently released details on its newest property, Amancaya, opening soon in Exuma, The Bahamas.

Bringing the revered Aman DNA of unparalleled service, awe-inspiring settings and privacy to one of the world’s most exclusive destinations in the Caribbean, the resort and branded residences will be the first location for the pioneering Aman Group in The Bahamas.

Amancaya will be set across two of the Exumas’ most secluded private cays, known for their white-sand beaches and world class diving. Meaning ‘peaceful island’ in Taíno, the property will comprise of a 36-pavilion Aman hotel and limited collection of fully-serviced Aman Residences.

Envisioned as a low-density ultra-luxury property in partnership with Swiss investor, philanthropist and sportswoman Dona Bertarelli, Amancaya will bring Aman’s coveted lifestyle to Exuma with a host of resort amenities, including a marina, Beach Club, Aman Spa and an array of dining venues across the two islands.

Amancaya is currently under construction, developed with the involvement of Squircle Capital, and will be Aman’s third property in the Caribbean region. The brand currently operates Amanera in Rio San Juan, Dominican Republic, and Amanyara in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.

Discover the spirit of Antigua on a luxury catamaran

May 5, 2025 No Comments

For travellers craving immersive and adventurous exploration on their next beach vacation, TradeWinds’ curated sailing itineraries in Antigua offer a novel way to access the island’s beauty.

Rather than being limited to a single location, guests aboard a TradeWinds luxury catamaran experience Antigua from the sea, visiting the sandy beaches of the west side, shallow reefs teeming with sea life on the north, and deep blue waters ideal for fishing along the south and east coasts—all without the hassle of unpacking or planning logistics.

Each day aboard a TradeWinds yacht brings a new anchorage, complemented by excursions on land and below the surface: guided hikes to panoramic viewpoints like Shirley Heights for an epic Caribbean sunset, snorkeling and diving over vibrant reefs, behind-the-scenes tastings at a local gin distillery, and a stroll through historic Nelson’s Dockyard. Guests return to a floating base outfitted for comfort—well-appointed private cabins with en suite baths, chef-prepared meals, and the easy rhythm of a small group led by an experienced crew.

What it's like on board

You wake to coffee and a spread of fresh fruit and baked goods on the aft deck, the water calm around you as the crew preps for departure.

As the sails go up, you relax on the comfy lounges on the foredeck, watching the coastline recede. A bit later, the anchor drops in Deep Bay where you slip on a mask and fins and swim out to explore the wreck of the Andes, a 120-year-old steamer that caught fire here en route to Peru. Back onboard, lunch is served—grilled fish, bright salads, cold rosé.

The afternoon unfolds slowly: a leisurely walk along the beach, a try at paddleboarding in the shallows, maybe a nap in the shade. As the sun drops lower, you hike up to Fort Barrington. From the top, the view opens wide—Antigua, Redonda, Montserrat, St. Kitts & Nevis in the distance. You head back just in time for dinner and drinks under the stars.

An effortless way to travel

With room for just 10 guests across five cabins, TradeWinds yachts offer a rare blend of privacy and camaraderie. Cabins feature queen beds and en-suite baths. The flybridge and aft cockpit feature plenty of space to hang, while the aft platform is ideal for lounging or plunging into the sea.

Your luxurious floating home moves with you, bringing you to lesser-known beaches and bays with minimal footprint and maximum ease.

Travellers conscious of their eco footprint will want to book their Antigua sailing adventure aboard Ohana, one of four electric-powered yachts in TradeWinds’ fleet. Across all TradeWinds vessels, crews use non-toxic cleaning supplies and avoid single use plastics. Locally sourced, low-impact menus are part of a broader commitment to sustainability and community support.

A TradeWinds’ seven-night sailings in Antigua start from $7,700 per cabin. This rate includes meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage, and daily excursions. TradeWinds fleet of more than 40 catamaran yachts operation in the Caribbean, Europe, the South Pacific and Indian Ocean.  Learn more about TradeWinds Experience at www.trade-winds.com. 

Adults-only UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta opening this September

May 2, 2025 No Comments
UNICO Hotel Collection has announced the launch of UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta, the second hotel in the collection, signalling the start of a robust expansion into new regions across the world.
 
For over seven years, the UNICO brand has worked on providing guests unique experiences rooted in individuality, artisanal practices and a modern take on regional cultures to ensure travellers feel at-home in the world’s most striking locales. Now, UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta will open its doors on Sept. 1.
UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta, designed only for adults, continues to mirror the brand’s local focus, cultural curiosity and diverse activities. With just 141 rooms, the hotel offers an intimate stay designed with every comfort in mind–more than that, it leaves room for curiosity and exploration.
 
Inspired by the vibrant spirit of the Riviera Nayarit region, UNICO 20°105° offers a boutique experience that feels like a destination while still inviting guests to step out and connect with the local culture, ambiance, and community that make the city of Puerto Vallarta so special.
The resort offers signature features like Esencia Wellness Spa, Cafe Inez and personalized service through Local Hosts, while Epicures have the opportunity to indulge in three all-new specialty restaurants.
 
Bringing distinct flavours from the Vallarta region to the UNICO 20°105° doors is Agua Madre, serving Mexican fare; Lia, serving Italian provisions; and KOBO, serving Japanese-inspired cuisine.
 
Recognized as an exceptional destination by leading travel publications, Puerto Vallarta boasts a historic downtown, standout dining, prominent art galleries and time-honored hand crafts. UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta is purposefully placed to capture the best of Vallarta’s breathtaking natural beauty, surrounded by a world of activities and experiences.
 
For more information on UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta or to book a stay, visit https://www.unicohotelcollection.com/vallarta/.

Air Canada finally added free Wi-Fi for flights in North America, Mexico & the Caribbean

April 30, 2025 No Comments

Air Canada has launched fast, free Wi-Fi for Aeroplan members on board Air Canada’s flights across North America and to-and-from sun destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean.

Sponsored by Bell, the new service means customers can enjoy streaming video services and gaming on their personal devices and makes Air Canada a leader in connectivity.

“Quality connectivity has become indispensable for all travellers. Starting today we’re thrilled to offer complimentary Wi-Fi on North American, Mexican and Caribbean flights for Aeroplan Members, by partnering with Bell,” said Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer at Air Canada.  “This initiative underscores Air Canada’s focus on elevating the customer experience, with leadership in providing streaming quality connectivity, at a pace unmatched by other airlines — at home and around the world. We now offer Wi-Fi on 88 per cent of our fleet, with the remaining installations to be completed by early 2026. This will include an industry first with the upcoming launch of Wi-Fi on Air Canada Express Q400s serving Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport.”

Aeroplan Members can now enjoy the convenience of complimentary, streaming-quality Wi-Fi from gate-to-gate on Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge and on Air Canada Express flights operated with CRJ900 aircraft.

More information on Air Canada’s fast, free Wi-Fi can be found here.

The best luxury trips to take by yourself this year

April 28, 2025 No Comments

From all-inclusive dining, to ultra-luxe pampering, these six tour operators make taking a trip by yourself a true treat.

An overnight rail journey

In July 2025, Belmond will launch the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales: Britannic Explorer. The train will offer three or six-night journeys with a selection of three routes through the spectacular natural landscapes of Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales.

On board, guests can enjoy fine dining experiences by acclaimed Michelin star Chef Simon Rogan. The train, crafted in England with elegant interiors by Albion Nord, will feature 18 cabins, a wellness suite, two restaurant cars and a bar located in the Observation Car.

—belmond.com/trains/europe/uk/britannic-explore

A luxury safari camp

Opening July 2025, andBeyond Suyian Lodge is a luxury safari camp in Kenya that is set across 44,000 acres of conservation lands in the Suyian region. The luxury safari lodge features 14 spacious suites, including a family suite, each with a private plunge pool and outdoor terrace. Guests can enjoy amenities like a personal in-suite bar, outdoor showers, a wellness centre, and al fresco dining options. 

Day and night safaris can be arranged with the help of andBeyond’s expert guides. Walking safaris, camel and horseback safaris, active ranching tours are also available to book. —andbeyond.com/our-lodges

A riverboat retreat

Guided tour operator Tauck has introduced two new ships for spring 2026 that will sail along the Rhone and Reine rivers through France. The ships will accommodate a maximum of 124 and 130 guests. Suites range from 180 to 300 sq. ft. and do not require guests to pay a single supplement.

Guests have access to a dedicated Tauck cruise director and guides to provide the highest levels of service, and the itineraries offered on the new ships will be fully inclusive. Built into the price of every Tauck river cruise are all shore excursions, all gratuities, all onboard beverages (including wine, beer and spirits), arrival and departure airport transfers, all taxes and fees, and more. —tauck.ca/river-cruises

A private jet escape

With 2025 itineraries almost sold out, Four Seasons has added six new itineraries to its lineup of 2026 Private Jet Journeys. The Four Seasons Private Jet is a custom-designed Airbus A321neoLR that hosts the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience – an ongoing series of regional and round-the-world itineraries featuring flexible options for on-the-ground activities and tours, with accommodations at Four Seasons hotels and resorts. 

Every Four Seasons Private Jet itinerary includes all flights and luggage coordination, ground transfers, and in-flight meals prepared by a Four Seasons executive chef. —fourseasons.com/privateje

A personalized yacht sailing

Sailing the North and Baltic Seas of Northern Europe during summer 2025, Ilma is the newest superyacht from luxury hospitality brand, The Ritz-Carlton. Ilma offers 224 airy and intuitive suites, all with private terraces providing direct access to the sea. 

With accommodation for up to 448 guests, the yacht invites guests to discover five dining venues, a refreshed in-suite dining program, sevens bars, and a signature wine vault. Voyages typically span five to 10 nights with an all-inclusive onboard journey and curated excursions ashore to destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, and Central America. Private charter options are also available, allowing guests to craft a truly tailored journey. 

—ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com/yachts/ilma

An exhilarating expedition cruise

Ultra-luxury cruise line Seabourn’s two new ultra-luxury expedition ships, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit, are scheduled to visit up to 161 destinations in 31 countries for 2025.

Guests on both Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit are treated to a range of expedition activities led by an expert 23-person expedition team of scientists, scholars, and naturalists. The ships are also equipped with enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity with SpaceX’s Starlink. Seabourn’s all-inclusive, boutique ships offer all-suite accommodations with oceanfront views; fine dining, complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available at all times.—seabourn.com

This story first appeared in the Spring 2025 issue of OFFSHORE Travel Magazine. Click here to subscribe. Click here to view the digital edition.

A&K adds new small group journeys to some of the world’s most remote places

April 25, 2025 No Comments

Abercrombie & Kent is introducing a collection of Small Group Journeys to some of the world’s most remote and culturally rich destinations.

This new 2025 fall lineup delivers immersive adventures far from the crowds, from Norway’s Lofoten Islands to Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flats and Mongolia’s Altai Mountains, blending luxury, culture, and adventure.

Norway’s Wild Lofoten Islands: Explore the scenic and cultural wonders of the remote Lofoten Islands, a vast Norwegian archipelago above the Arctic Circle.

  • Active land and sea excursions amid fjords, fishing villages, and soaring cliffs.
  • Culinary workshops with local chefs—craft your own caviar and sample fresh seaweed.
  • Visits to artisan cheesemakers and contemporary art galleries in Trondheim.

Departure Dates: Sep 5-13, Sep 27-Oct 5, Oct 11-19, 2025; 9 days from $16,495

Mongolia’s Golden Eagle Festival: Travel to remote Western Mongolia for a rare glimpse into Kazakh nomadic life and the legendary Golden Eagle Festival.

  • Witness Kazakh hunters showcase their powerful bond with their eagles at a local festival
  • Three nights at the boutique Three Camel Lodge, an ideal base to explore the Gobi Desert and Flaming Cliffs
  • Intimate encounters with Kazakh nomadic families.

Departure Dates: Sep 14-25, Oct 1-12, 2025; 12 days from $22,995

Chile and Bolivia: Atacama to Uyuni Salt Flats: Embark on a soul-stirring adventure from the world’s driest desert to the planet’s largest salt flat.

  • Explore the Atacama Desert through hikes and a hot air balloon ride.
  • Immerse in Bolivia’s indigenous culture at La Paz’s Witches Market.
  • Discover the surreal Uyuni Salt Flats and cruise Lake Titicaca by hydrofoil.

Departure Dates: Oct 5-13, Dec 6-14, 2025; 9 days from $11,995

The Timeless Towns of the Baltics: Unravel the stories of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, where medieval trade once built some of Europe’s wealthiest cities, Soviet rule left its mark, and vibrant national pride now shapes the future.

  • Savor an intimate farm-to-table lunch at Zipari Farm, accompanied by live kokle music and traditional Latvian dishes.
  • Participate in a meaningful reforestation project at Vihula Manor.
  • Enjoy exclusive access to the Iljinai Family House, a hidden gem of interwar modernist architecture.
  • Tour Estonia’s National Museum with a curator, followed by a private discussion.

Departure Dates: Sep 23-Oct 3, Sept 30-Oct 10, 2025; 11 days from $9,995

Venice and the Dolomites: Experience a “peaks and palazzos” adventure where Old-World romance meets alpine grandeur. This 8-day journey features:

  • Hikes through the dramatic Dolomites and a visit to the iconic Cinque Torri.
  • Tastings of Prosecco and locally made cheeses.
  • Private access to the 15th-century Palazzo Erizzo Nani Mocenigo on Venice’s Grand Canal.
  • Stays at three of Italy’s most fabulous independent hotels: Albergo Al Sole, Rosapetra Spa Resort, and Palazzina Grassi.

Departure Date: Sep 18-25, 2025; 8 days from $11,995

To book your next adventure, visit www.abercrombiekent.com.

This luggage company just released a limited-edition gilded gold set

April 23, 2025 No Comments

The limited-edition collection features four silhouettes from the brand’s signature 19 Degree Aluminum collection—a Briefcase, International Carry-On, Watch Travel Case and Minaudiere—in celebratory Bullion Gold.

Each radiant piece features an aircraft-grade aluminum shell with TUMI’s iconic 19 Degree contours and distinctive details—and comes finished with a 50th anniversary story patch that includes its unique edition number. Only 250 units of each silhouette are available worldwide, making these pieces covetable collectors’ items for TUMI enthusiasts.

The collection is now available for purchase online at TUMI.com. Prices for the limited-edition pieces range from $650 to $1,995.

A curated selection of pieces will be offered in extremely limited quantities at the following TUMI retail locations in North America:Aventura Mall, Copley Place, Houston Galleria, Lenox Square, North Michigan Avenue, North Park Center, Rockefeller Center, Scottsdale Fashion Square, South Coast Plaza, Stanford Shopping Center, Tysons Galleria, and Yorkdale Shopping Centre.

Select styles will also be available at TUMI flagship and retail stores globally, including locations across Asia, Europe, and Latin America. While door-level availability may vary, participating countries include:

China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Middle East, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, France, Germany, Italy the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Panamá and Mexico.  

A look at the trends shaping solo female travel in 2025

April 22, 2025 No Comments

More women are travelling solo than ever before, and mundane things like work, family life and routine aren’t holding them back.

The rise of solo female travel in recent years has sparked a powerful shift in how women explore the world, embracing both the freedom of independence and the empowerment that comes with navigating new destinations on their own terms.

According to recent data from American Express Travel’s 2024 Global Travel Trends Report, Canadians are actively prioritizing spontaneity and solo exploration, with more than half of the country’s population (54 per cent) expressing plans to book a solo adventure in the near future.

But, travelling solo doesn’t necessarily mean travelling alone.

In fact, there’s a growing trend in travelling solo under the guidance of an expert tour leader.

Just You is a well-established tour operator based in the U.K. that specializes in guided holidays for solo travellers. They offer a range of carefully-crafted trips to destinations around the world, designed to provide a seamless travel experience with like-minded individuals. All Just You tours include expert tour guides, comfortable accommodations and transportation, and a friendly, social atmosphere, making it easier for solo travellers to explore new places without the hassle of planning on their own. Some meals are included, however, the company encourages travellers to explore on their own or with newfound friends and maintain that independent energy.

Why travel solo?

The decision to travel solo comes down to a number of reasons, whether it’s too many unsuccessful attempts at coordinating vacation time with a spouse or friend, or a difference in travel interests. However, for those who choose this travel style, several factors remain a top selling point.

“There’s a particular safety element that goes with travelling on a tour for solo travellers, and that can’t be understated,” said Meg Murgatroyd, head of trade sales, North America, Just You. “The value is also outstanding on solo tours because so much is included, from the transportation to the accommodations, and access to the real highlights.”

Intrepid Travel is another globally-recognized tour operator known for its commitment to responsible travel and sustainable tourism. They offer small group tours that focus on authentic, immersive experiences, connecting travellers with local cultures and communities in more than 100 countries. Worth noting is the company’s Women’s Expeditions, which are all-female tours led by a local female leader created to offer an insight into the daily lives and challenges of women in other countries. These trips allow women to boldly venture into new territories on trips designed with them in mind.

“Feedback on these trips is consistently high. Women love exploring off-the-beaten-track destinations with other like-minded women,” said Jenny Gray, senior product manager at Intrepid Travel who leads designing these trips. “The opportunity to learn and connect with fellow travellers and those they meet along their journey with these specially curated female experiences is really important to these travelers and the highlight of their travels.”

Recent data from Solo Female Traveler’s Club’s 2023 Solo Women Travel Survey further supports these findings, with 76 per cent of women who have never travelled solo before stating they would be more likely to do so on a group tour. Another 40 per cent would choose a women-only tour.

Women want to wander

In 2024, Intrepid experienced an overall 16 per cent increase in the number of solo travellers compared to the year before and nearly one third (68 per cent) of all solo travellers were women. There has also been an increasing number of North American travellers over 60 years of age joining trips solo in recent years, driven by women in their 50s and 60s. 

“These older solo travellers range from new retirees who are ready for an adventure, to people who have different travel interests than their partner or friends and choose to travel solo on a small group tour,” said Leigh Barnes, president of the Americas at Intrepid Travel.   

Additionally, Solo Female Traveler’s Club reports that 53 per cent of women said they simply travel solo because they have nobody to travel with. Others express an interest in forming strong self awareness and gaining confidence in new environments, while building meaningful connections.

Jessica Nabongo is a renowned travel influencer, entrepreneur, and the first Black woman to travel to every country in the world, a feat she achieved in 2019. She is also the author of the book, The Catch Me If You Can, where she shares her personal experiences and insights from her travels.

Jessica Nabongo, travel influencer, entrepreneur, and author,is the first Black woman to visit every country in the world.

Jessica Nabongo is a renowned travel influencer, entrepreneur, and the first Black woman to travel to every country in the world, a feat she achieved in 2019. She is also the author of the book, The Catch Me If You Can, where she shares her personal experiences and insights from her travels. 

Nabongo began her solo travel journey in 2009 with a trip to Costa Rica. “It was my first time solo travelling, and I didn’t know what to do,” Nabongo recalled.

For those who are just starting out on their solo travel journeys, Nabongo encourages travel to places that are on the beaten-path, rather than off-the-grid, lesser known parts. “You’re going to feel more comfortable that way,” she says. “When you travel and you’re confident, you’re less vulnerable and less susceptible to people taking advantage of you.” 

Safety still a concern

Despite the positive increase in booking numbers, women’s safety remains one of the top barriers to solo female travel.

Seventy per cent of women cited personal safety as their leading concern in the Solo Female Traveler’s Club’s 2023 Solo Women Travel Survey. These fears often directly impact the activities or decisions women make while travelling. However, the survey also notes that with experience comes less worry—78 per cent of travellers with fewer than six solo trips worry about safety versus 59 per cent of those who have travelled solo more than 10 times.

Condor Ferries reports that regardless of global events, 86 per cent of women state that they are not afraid to travel. Another 75 per cent of those who take adventure, cultural or nature trips are women, thus proving they’re not afraid to put themselves in uncomfortable or unfamiliar situations.

Concerns over safety (like government-issued travel advisories) are valid, but it shouldn’t be the overarching theme of your trip, Nabongo says.

As a world traveller, she’s heard her fair share of cautionary tales leading up to planned trips, but doesn’t take it to heart.

“Don’t take advice from people who haven’t been to the places you haven’t been to, or done the things that you want to do.”

“I think so many people are so obsessed with preparing for the worst case scenario, and I don’t do that,” Nabongo says.

“You waste so much energy, and then you’re either going to scare yourself, or you’re not going to have a good time because you’re so consumed by the thought,” she continued. “You have to pick a place where you feel comfortable alone, because otherwise it simply won’t work, and you won’t allow yourself to enjoy it.”

Claudia Bastien, a content creator and events facilitator based in Squamish, BC, agrees. A solo traveller since 2013, Bastien most recently returned from a six-month bike-packing trip that saw her log 5,000 kilometres by bike from her front door to the Mexican border, near Tijuana.

“I think one of the biggest misconceptions [of solo travel] is that it’s really dangerous,” Bastien says. “Everything we do in life has a danger to it and when we think of our lives as solo female travellers, we think to ourselves, ‘there’s no way; there are predators out there, people attack us…we have this idea that the world is out to get us,” she says. “I think everyone should travel solo but they need to hone their awareness beforehand. Don’t live in fear, but live in awareness.”

B.C.-based content creator Claudia Bastien, recently returned from a solo bikepacking trip that saw her log 5,000 kilometres to the Mexican border.

Investing in the right equipment, being mindful of your surroundings, and trusting your gut are other safety non-negotiables for both Bastien and Nabongo. An avid wild camper, Bastien emphasizes the value of investing in a satellite phone. “When you’re doing solo travel for an extended period of time, it’s also an investment in your loneliness,” Bastien says. “There are moments when you’re going to be out of cell service and you don’t know when you’re going to get back into cell service, and it’s just nice to check in with your loved ones.”

A choice as simple as your accommodations, Nabongo adds, can mean a world of difference to your comfort and safety, especially as a first-time solo female traveller. Hotels, for example, are typically more secure thanks to features like an on-site concierge and in-room safe. Her best safety tip? “Buy a local newspaper—if you appear to speak the language, you look like less of a tourist!”

Whether you’ve always wanted to experience solo travel, or are already seeking out your next independent journey, it’s a trend that isn’t diminishing anytime soon.

“There’s a freedom to it [solo travel] that allows you to hone in on your basic needs,” Bastien says. “It sounds so simple, but we forget that we meld our lives to other people around us; we’re chameleons without even realizing we’re good chameleons. “When we solo travel, we get to have that again, to be ourselves again, and it’s a really special feeling.”

Follow Jessica and Claudia’s solo travel adventures on Instagram:

Jessica Nabongo: @jessicanabongo

Claudia Bastien: @wandering_claud

Inside Chile’s The Cormorant at 55 South, the southernmost hotel on Earth

April 16, 2025 No Comments

Silversea has unveiled the first spaces and name of The Cormorant at 55 South, its new 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, scheduled to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season.

Upon completion, Silversea’s new hotel will create the most convenient, comfortable and seamless way to visit Antarctica.

The Cormorant is a nod to the unique location of the property at 55° S – making it the southernmost hotel on Earth – and an acknowledgement of the location’s history. Paying homage to Lakutaia, which is the indigenous Yahgan word for cormorant, the aquatic bird is a symbol of the seafarer and intended to bestow good fortune on guests embarking on their greatest adventure.

Immersive guest rooms

The Cormorant will feature two distinct room views, including serene forest views and tranquil water vistas overlooking the Beagle Channel. This design brings guests closer to the breathtaking natural beauty of Patagonia, immersing them in the landscapes that define this region.

Each room is thoughtfully designed with expansive windows that frame sweeping views, filling the space with natural light and creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The interiors feature warm wood tones and earthy elements, deepening the connection to the destination while creating an authentic and calming environment. To further this connection, every room will incorporate handcrafted items created by regional artisans, adding a unique touch that celebrates local and regional culture.

Welcoming guests from the moment they arrive will be The Cormorant’s own dedicated staff – all trained in The Silversea Way to provide the high level of service that is synonymous with Silversea.

Enhancing the experience

The hotel will facilitate a uniquely frictionless journey to Antarctica, allowing guests to enjoy Silversea’s personalized service and warm hospitality throughout their entire experience. Silversea’s innovative six-day Antarctica Fly Cruise expeditions allow guests to fly over the Drake Passage, providing a shorter option without compromising on the time spent in the destination.

Having pioneered luxury expedition cruising in 2008, Silversea became the first travel brand to offer luxury Antarctica expeditions. With its experience in the region, Silversea now offers the most enriching and personalized adventures on the continent, with an industry-leading expedition team that comprises up to 28 experts in their field, knowledgeable kayak instructors, world-class onboard lectures and some of the highest Zodiac-to-guest ratios in the industry, among other enriching features.

Silversea’s expedition experts host guided walks ashore, identifying wildlife species, unique glacial and geological structures, and other fascinating features only found on an Antarctic expedition. Back on board, the team’s insightful lectures provide an overview of the day’s sightings and experiences.

For more information, visit www.silversea.com/lp-fly-to-antarctica.html.

JW Marriott brand comes to Portugal with opening at Palmares Resort

April 14, 2025 No Comments

JW Marriott’s first Portuguese property has opened at Palmares Ocean Living & Golf, a transformative addition to the celebrated Palmares Ocean Living & Golf resort will feature 172 elegantly appointed rooms and suites with sea views.

The hotel’s interior design, crafted by the renowned Goddard Littlefair, complements this architectural vision by ensuring a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

Every meal becomes a memorable occasion here. Start your day with fresh-baked pastries at the elegant all-day dining venue, savour a long lunch by the lively poolside bar, or celebrate special moments at the Michelin-starred Al-Sud restaurant. Local flavours take centre stage across all venues – think succulent oysters just harvested from the Alvor estuary, or sharing traditional dishes like tender octopus and Bulhão Pato clams, gently simmered in local white wine with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs.

Guests will discover perfect moments of peace in the wellness sanctuary, where traditional Portuguese healing practices meet contemporary luxury. Whether experiencing a customized treatment in the serene treatment suites, enjoying an invigorating session in the state-of-the-art fitness centre, or finding a quiet moment by the indoor or outdoor pools, every experience is designed to restore and rejuvenate.

Golf enthusiasts will find their paradise on the acclaimed 27-hole course. Each hole of the Robert Trent Jones Jr. masterpiece reveals new views of the Bay of Lagos. The experience is uniquely charming – a small regional train passing hourly along the coastal line adds a touch of local character to each round.

Opening beginning of 2028, JW Marriott at Palmares Ocean Living & Golf invites guests to discover where mindful luxury meets the authentic soul of Portugal.