Staycation: Self indulgence awaits at The High Acre in Dundas, Ontario

May 14, 2025

Opened in 2023 inside a restored 1867 Victorian farm house in Dundas Ontario, The High Acre is an exceptional adults-only boutique inn that exudes quiet luxury.

With just four beautifully-appointed suites, The High Acre provides an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy an intimately personal getaway, with minimal disruptions.

The suites, which sleep two people, feature a private infrared sauna, a hammam-inspired steam room, and a free-standing soaker tub, meaning guests can skip the hassle of booking an appointment and enjoy spa-like relaxation at any time of day. The hammam is enhanced with a handcrafted essential oil blend from certified clinical aromatherapist Marianne Toupalik, promoting deep breathing and refreshing the senses using notes of eucalyptus, grapefruit and peppermint. Additionally, guests can practice self-care through yoga, meditation, and breathwork, with guided sessions available in the suite or the on-site studio. Other shared amenities include a heated outdoor hot tub and an outdoor heated pool, open May 1 to October 1. 

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Each of the spacious rooms features a blend of modern furniture, luxurious linens and cozy amenities like plush bedding, soaker tubs, flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet, and individually controlled heating and cooling systems. Ensuite bathrooms are equipped with upscale toiletries, fluffy towels, and bathrobes for added comfort. All of the rooms also feature fireplaces, lounge areas, and a full kitchen, making them perfect for romantic getaways or extended stays. 

Guests can enjoy a breakfast spread of freshly baked croissants, farm fresh eggs, jam and butter, and a selection of coffee and tea from the comfort of their rooms, in the inn’s cozy dining area, or on the outdoor patio in the warmer months.

What to do in Dundas

Dundas, roughly 15 minutes from Hamilton, is a small town with a big personality.

It’s close to several hiking trails, including those within the famous Niagara Escarpment and Royal Botanical Gardens. For the best panoramic views, head to Dundas Peak, tucked along the Bruce Trail. Several waterfalls, including Tew’s Falls (the tallest waterfall in Southern Ontario) and Webster’s Falls, are less than a five-minute drive away from The High Acre.

Nearby cultural landmarks include the Art Gallery of Hamilton and Dundurn Castle, whose gardens boast beautiful blooms from May to October.

Downtown Dundas is home to a handful of restaurants, cafes and charming boutiques, making it a pleasant spot to spend an afternoon strolling, dining, and shopping.

Shawn & Ed Brewing Co. is the main brewery in Dundas, and it offers a fantastic selection of craft beers and their signature beer pie pizzas. Wine lovers can explore the abundance of vineyards found in Niagara-on-the-Lake, approximately an hour’s drive from Dundas.

This article first appeared in the Spring 2025 issue of OFFSHORE Travel Magazine. Click here to access the digital version. Click here to subscribe to the newsletter.

Air Canada just launched nonstop service from Toronto to this gorgeous French Caribbean island

May 12, 2025

Air Canada recently launched new direct service from Toronto to the Guadeloupe Islands.

From December 20 to April, the Guadeloupe Islands will be accessible every Saturday from Toronto’s Pearson International Airport (YYZ). Flights are already available for sale and will be operated by a Boeing 737-800 MAX, configured with 16 seats in business class and 153 in economy class.

After having successfully promoted the French-speaking Canadian market in recent years, the Guadeloupe Islands are now expanding their tourism development prospects with this new service, targeting a high-potential English-speaking Canadian public in search of authentic cultural and seaside experiences.

“Air Canada is very pleased to be the leading carrier between Canada and the French Caribbean, and we are delighted to add new flights from Toronto to Guadeloupe this winter,” said Alexandre Lefevre, VP Network Planning North America and Scheduling. “We’re excited to be opening new links between Ontario and the French Antilles. This new service complements our year-round flights from Montreal. We have optimized connections to and from our Toronto hub to give more Canadians additional convenient travel options to visit beautiful Guadeloupe.”

Azamara reveals lineup for 2027 summer cruises

May 9, 2025

Azamara Cruises has announced its highly anticipated Summer 2027 cruises.

Featuring 68 sailings and six Grand Voyages across its fleet of intimate vessels, Azamara Cruises continues to lead the industry with more time in port, and unmatched access to marquee events, lesser-traveled ports, and longer stays in each destination.

“The 2027 summer sailings will be our most diverse yet, continuing to demonstrate Azamara’s commitment to immersive, enriching travel,” said Michael Pawlus, Head of Itinerary Planning at Azamara Cruises. “From returning to beloved U.K. ports like Dartmouth and Fowey to sailings timed with iconic events like the Monaco Grand Prix and Japan’s Cherry Blossom season, Summer 2027 is all about delivering meaningful, in-depth travel experiences.”

Summer 2027 cruises highlights include:

  • Six New Grand Voyages – Discover the World on Extended Itineraries: Azamara Cruises invites guests to embark on extraordinary Grand Voyages, ranging from 35 to 41 nights. These extended journeys visit multiple countries and continents, giving travelers ample time to explore iconic cities and hidden gems. Itineraries include Miami to Venice, Copenhagen to New York, Kobe to Vancouver, and Athens to Lisbon—each designed to showcase Azamara’s signature blend of comfort and cultural immersion. Every Grand Voyage also includes complimentary airfare, shore excursion credits, WiFi for two devices, weekly laundry service, and an upgraded beverage package.
  • Europe in Full Bloom – A Season of Iconic Cultural Moments: Guests can sail through the heart of Europe during its most vibrant season, with curated itineraries offering access to world-famous events such as the Monaco Grand Prix and Edinburgh’s Military Tattoo. Nearly half of all cruises feature late nights or overnights, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in authentic local culture after dark. Whether it’s joining an exclusive AzAmazing Evening, taking part in a guided night tour, or savoring a Destination Celebration Dinner under the stars, guests can enjoy Europe’s most iconic destinations long after the sun sets—from twilight strolls in coastal villages to moonlit concerts in historic city squares.
  • Back to Beloved Ports – Azamara Cruises Returns to Dartmouth and Fowey: For the first time since 2009 and 2018 respectively, Azamara Cruises returns to the picturesque U.K. ports of Dartmouth and Fowey—intimate harbors steeped in history and natural beauty. Dartmouth, home to the famed Britannia Royal Naval College, charms visitors with its medieval castle and scenic river cruises, while Fowey captivates with its literary heritage, stunning estuary views, and idyllic Cornish streets. Accessible only to smaller ships, these hidden gems showcase Azamara’s ability to reach off-the-beaten-path destinations that larger cruise lines simply can’t.
  • Destination Immersion Elevated – 22 new PerryGolf Cruises, 10 new Country-Intensive Cruises, and Curated Shore Excursions: The 2027 summer cruises feature 22 new PerryGolf and 10 new Country-Intensive Cruises that allow travelers to dive deep into a single country’s culture and coastline. Guests will enjoy expanded Azamara Ashore programming, including expertly crafted shore excursions and overnight land programs created in partnership with top local tour operators.
  • Immersive Access to Asia – Experience Japan’s Cherry Blossoms and Beyond: Sailing in spring, Azamara Pursuit will bring guests through Japan during the stunning cherry blossom season—offering opportunities to witness this natural wonder across both northern and southern ports such as Hiroshima, Kanazawa, Tokyo, Kobe and more. These itineraries combine cultural landmarks with natural beauty, all delivered with Azamara Cruises’ signature local insight.
  • Own the Night – More Late Nights and Overnight Stays: Summer 2027 cruises offer 89 overnight stays and 381 late nights, giving guests unmatched access to destinations after dark. As the only cruise line offering evening tours, Azamara invites travelers to experience the magic of each destination long after the sun sets.

Guests booking early can take advantage of an Early Booking Bonus, which includes 20% off cruise fare. Travellers who book a Veranda cabin or Suite will also receive the Experience More Essentials Package ($300 onboard credit, premium beverage package for two, and free Wi-Fi). Plus our Always Azamara inclusions, valued at over $4,500.

To book one of Azamara’s Summer 2027 cruises visit www.azamara.com.

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

May 7, 2025

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

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
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

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

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

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

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.