Thompson Palm Springs opening this year

May 12, 2023 No Comments

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has plans for the 168-room Thompson Palm Springs, which will join the luxury lifestyle Thompson Hotels portfolio and mark the second Thompson Hotels property in California.

Thompson Palm Springs is expected to open in late 2023 and will offer panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains and the city of Palm Springs.

Developed by Dallas-based Hall Group and designed by interior design firm B2 Architecture + Design and architect SMS Architecture, Thompson Palm Springs will feature modern, groundbreaking design in the heart of the city.

Unique guestroom bungalows will be surrounded by two outdoor pools, gardens, lounge areas and winding walking paths, immersing visitors in the natural landscape of Palm Springs.

Amenities & more

Guests can expect additional amenities including a signature restaurant helmed by a world-class chef, sought-after indoor and outdoor bar and lounges, a well-appointed spa and fitness concept, and approximately 8,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space.

Thompson Palm Springs will also offer more than 20,000 square feet of ground-level retail and restaurant space along downtown’s iconic Palm Canyon Drive which will include HALL Napa Valley, a 3,400 square foot tasting room from owners Craig & Kathryn Hall showcasing selections from their family of wines: HALL, WALT and BACA. The hotel’s idyllic location will provide guests with access to the community’s thriving arts and culture scene including museums, art galleries, boutiques and bars and restaurants.

Thompson Palm Springs will build on Hyatt’s intentional growth strategy in key leisure markets, joining 18 Thompson Hotels properties worldwide, with four additional properties expected to open by the end of 2024 in destinations like Houston, South Beach Miami, and Monterrey, Mexico, as well as the brand’s entry into Asia Pacific in Shanghai.  

To learn more about the Thompson Hotels brand,  visit www.thompsonhotels.com.

Disney Cruise adds two new experiences on board Disney Magic

May 10, 2023 No Comments

From the magical mountains of Colombia to the bustling streets of New York City, the colorful worlds of two fan-favorite Disney films – Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto” and Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” – have come to life for the first time on the high seas with the debut of new family-friendly experiences aboard the Disney Magic.

In addition to “Encanto”-themed entertainment and a “Soul”-inspired lounge, the ship’s concierge accommodations were enhanced with new theming and spacious refurbishments during a three-week dry dock project in Freeport, The Bahamas.

An Encanto Celebration

Guests can join the fantastical family Madrigal during an all-new immersive experience, “An Encanto Celebration,” designed to engage families through music, crafts and storytelling.

The interactive experience gives guests an opportunity to meet and take photos with Mirabel and the family member we don’t talk about, Bruno, during their Disney Cruise Line debut.

Families can also join a spirited sing-along of beloved “Encanto” songs and create butterfly and flower crafts inspired by the film. During the show, guests can experience a true taste of South America thanks to a selection of local Colombian beers, cocktails and sodas along with film-inspired mocktails.

New Soul Cat Lounge

The heartfelt story of “Soul” was the inspiration for the brand-new Soul Cat Lounge designed to look like Joe Gardner’sfavorite music spot from the film, the Half Note Lounge.

The space, located on deck three near Rapunzel’s Royal Table restaurant, instantly transports guests to a classic New York jazz club appointed with decorative details like brick walls, wood accents and plenty of rich leather seating around a stage set for live music, so guests can grab their partner and head to the dance floor for a swinging good time each evening.

The Soul Cat Lounge is adorned with custom artwork from Pixar featuring nods to the film including record labels, concert posters and portraits of jazz legend Dorothea Williams and her bandmates. Thoughtful “Soul”-inspired details are subtly layered throughout the design including record players, instruments and Joe’s hat.

Adults can enhance their big city experience with table-side Manhattans and martinis or choose from a selection of native brews and cocktails made with New York spirits. A fun collection of mocktails, specialty coffees and sodas are also on the menu. In addition to new drink options, guests can take a bite of Little Italy with an order of zeppoles, the classic Italian pastry similar to a fried doughnut, while enjoying the live music.

Redesigned concierge

The concierge spaces aboard the Disney Magic have been elevated and enhanced. The concierge lounge was reimagined and expanded to feature a sophisticated new theme and tropical colour palate inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Moana” and an additional outdoor covered seating area on deck 10 where guests can relax with a refreshing beverage while enjoying the ocean breeze.

All concierge suites, including one- and two-bedroom accommodations and the two signature royal suites, have been completely refurbished with fresh fixtures, furniture and elegant artwork, further elevating the premium experience for concierge guests.

Shore power technology was also installed as part of the ship’s dry dock project, continuing Disney Cruise Line’s longtime dedication to minimizing its impact on the environment. When available at the port, this will allow the Disney Magic to “plug in” to the port’s electrical grid, reducing the ship’s emissions.

The Disney Magic is currently sailing its first of three itineraries from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Beginning May 24, the ship will return to Miami for a summer of cruises to The Bahamas and Caribbean including the “Silver Anniversary at Sea” celebration in honor of Disney Cruise Line’s 25th anniversary. This fall, the Disney Magic will head west for its inaugural season sailing out of San Diego.

Oceania Cruises welcomes Vista, first of all-new Allura Class

May 8, 2023 No Comments

The first of the line’s Allura Class vessels, Vista is a 1,200-guest, all-veranda ship from Oceania Cruises.

At 791 feet (241 meters) long and more than 67,000 tons, Vista offers a staffing ratio with two crew members for every three guests. She also boasts the most spacious standard staterooms at sea, which measure more than 290 square feet, plus new Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms for solo travellers.

All-veranda accommodations

Setting new standards for comfort and residential-style luxury, she features all-veranda accommodations.

Vista’s elevated variety of onboard activities include eight bars, lounges and entertainment venues plus the luxurious Aquamar Spa + Vitality Centre and Aquamar Spa Terrace.

Elevated cuisine

Vista features 11 onboard culinary venues including three which are new to Vista.

These include Aquamar Kitchen, offering an array of wellness-inspired dishes with a hint of indulgence; The Bakery at Baristas, serving tempting freshly baked pastries; and new signature restaurant, Ember.

With an emphasis on innovating for drinks, as well as all things culinary, Vista is also introducing The Casino Mixology Bar, a new concept for the line, focused entirely on the art of the cocktail.

2024 sailings

Vista‘s 2024 summer season will see her sail a series of Grand Voyages in the eastern Mediterranean, Aegean and Adriatic Seas, visiting an intriguing array of iconic cities and smaller boutique ports throughout Italy, Turkey, Greece and the Holy Lands.

A full overview of Vista‘s 2023 and 2024 itineraries can be found at OceaniaCruises.com.

Filmmaker duo launch accessible outdoor guide for more inclusive travel

May 5, 2023 No Comments

Spending time outside significantly improves both mental and physical health.

However, for some, getting outdoors can be a challenge and accessing the natural world isn’t as simple as just stepping outside for many people for a range of reasons. 

‘This Expansive Adventure‘ is a multi-media website created by world-renowned and respected filmmakers, photographers and writers Fay and Matt Doyle.

With the belief that experiencing the outdoors and nature should not be full of barriers and can be much more inclusive, together, with outdoors retailer Ellis Brighamto, have created ‘The Accessible Outdoors Guide‘ that launched on This Expansive Adventure on May 10, 2023.

About the project

“We worked on creating articles and short film pieces to form an interactive hub,” explains Fay. “The guide aims to help people, through education, learn how to make their experience of the outdoors easier and safer. It also looks at the barriers people face to aid better transparency and to move toward more accessible nature for all.”

This is a subject particularly important to Fay, an adventurer with a disability who has faced many barriers to the outdoors since diagnosis.

Three short films are currently available as part of the ‘Learn Something New’ series on tea:tv Streaming, their original video content streaming platform. They include several interviews with experts and campaigners. 

The first is ‘How to Access the Outdoors with a Hidden Disability’. This short introduction includes lots of invaluable information to help develop confidence, especially with conditions where the goalposts can move during flare-ups. Ani Barber, a disabled outdoors enthusiast and founder of the ‘Outside Our Way’ blog, offers five suggestions on accessing nature and the outdoors with a hidden disability. 

Soraya Abdel-Hadi, founder of ‘All the Elements’ is featured in the second film, ‘Creating Change Around the Things You’re Passionate About’. She gives six tips to get you thinking about using your voice and actions to enact positive change. Activism can seem daunting. However, it doesn’t need to be. Soraya shares invaluable inspiration, creative ideas and thoughts on creating change around the things you feel passionate about and avoiding burnout.

‘Tips to Enjoy the Outdoors Safely’ is the third film’s title. It includes invaluable information to help make your time outdoors more accessible and enjoyable. Advice on how to make your adventures and time outdoors safer comes from Simon Pitman, a member of the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team and Ellis Brigham’s Fort William branch manager. 

Promoting more inclusive travel

‘The Accessible Outdoors Guide’ focuses on three key areas of the outdoor experience where problems can present themselves – safety, accessibility, and diversity.

In collaboration with experts, a series of informative articles have been produced that explore ways to break down some of the barriers faced. These are currently available on the ‘This Expansive Adventure’ website.

Fay and Matt created ‘This Expansive Adventure’ with the aim of moving away from ‘the idea of unrealistic travel, adventure and lifestyle goals and to make it more approachable, sustainable, achievable and inclusive’.

They hope that this initiative and ‘The Accessible Outdoors Guide‘ can help many more to enjoy the benefits of exploring nature.

Hard Rock opening massive casino in Deadwood, South Dakota

May 3, 2023 No Comments

Hard Rock International is bringing its unique brand of world-class entertainment to the historic city of Deadwood in the heart of the Black Hills National Forest. The Rocksino by Hard Rock project will celebrate a grand opening on Aug. 8.

Hard Rock International executives, local community members and civic leaders will participate in the celebration of the newest economic driver in the region most famous for its gold rush history.

The Rocksino by Hard Rock Deadwood is a boutique hotel & casino experience, which includes most of what fans of the Hard Rock brand have come to know but on a smaller scale than its famous integrated resorts in gateway international cities.

Currently, the property is seeking several positions for its workforce including Administrative Assistant, Hospitality Manager, Executive Chef, all department supervisors including food and beverage, casino, and kitchen, public area attendants, housekeeping, bartenders, kitchen staff, and retail sales associates.

The property will feature a casino including 86 new slot machines, full-service restaurant and bar with amazing craft cocktails, and a delicious new menu that will include everyone’s most loved pizza in Deadwood which will be prepared in our brand-new state-of-the-art kitchen.

Diners can enjoy their meals on the Historic Patio, which will feature a wood fire grill, or inside at the bar or VIP mezzanine. Shop at the Rock Shop Retail Store for custom Rocksino by Hard Rock Deadwood apparel. Beautifully renovated luxury guest rooms are scheduled to open later this year.

New contemporary city hotel debuts in Dublin

May 1, 2023 No Comments

Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas will officially make its debut in Ireland with the opening of Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel.  

Previously known as The Marker, a significant renovation has now been completed with a multi-million investment at the iconic Dublin hotel, which is a member of Leading Hotels of the World.

The property is one of the Irish capital’s most contemporary and architecturally impressive buildings and is located in the heart of the Docklands, a stylish and innovative part of the city that is home to some of the world’s most famous names in tech. 

About the hotel

Overlooking the Waterfront on Grand Canal Square in the heart of Dublin City, Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel has a contemporary design and style with eight state-of-the-art event and meeting facilities and offers 187 renovated stylish guest rooms over six floors, comprising 124 Premier and Deluxe rooms, 18 Junior Corner Suites and three large executive suites.  
 

The Roche Suite offers 1066 square feet of living space whilst the 990-square-foot Schwartz Suite, named after the square designer, features sweeping Grand Canal Square views. The spacious 1,389 square foot Presidential Suite is located on the fifth floor and boasts unobstructed views of Grand Canal Square offering two en suite bedrooms and separate living spaces.  

Services include the Condé Nast award-winning spa, which offers an infinity pool, sauna and eucalyptus-infused steam room alongside a series of new signature Anantara Spa treatments inspired by indigenous Irish ingredients and healing traditions.

A stylish rooftop terrace with stunning panoramic 360º views across the cityscape stretching to the sea at Dublin Bay is the best rooftop in the city. 

Recent refurbishments 


The lobby and bar have been refreshed with the addition of new soft furnishings, bespoke cabinetry, and custom furniture.
 
A destination restaurant, ‘Forbes Street by Gareth Mullins’, welcomes hotel residents and city dwellers alike.  The new restaurant will feature the very best of locally-sourced products served in a contemporary manner and with a uniquely Irish twist.
 

Close to the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) and the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel is a perfect cultural and business epicenter for travellers keen to experience classic Irish hospitality at its best.

Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel is the only five-star hotel in the area, which has recently emerged as one of the most vibrant, dynamic and modern parts of the city for living, working and socializing.

You can dive amongst Roman ruins in Malta’s new underwater park

April 28, 2023 No Comments

Malta is on the verge of offering divers a new underwater experience that will provide a truly in-depth look at the destination’s long history.

Spring will see the Mediterranean archipelago launch the Tower Wreck Deepwater Archaeological Park, which tourism authorities bill as the first of its kind.

The underwater park is located in Xlendi Bay, in the southwest corner of Malta’s sister island of Gozo.

“The deep-water archaeological park, encompassing an area of 67,000 square meters (approx. 42 miles), will allow international researchers and technical divers to explore the history of Malta from a totally different deep sea archaeological perspective. The marine park will showcase thousands of ancient artifacts, such as amphorae and urns, dating back to around 2,300 years, and natural heritage in the form of rocky outcrops formed by extinct coral reefs,” the Malta Tourism Authority said.

Explore 3rd century ruins

Professor Timmy Gambin of the Archeology Centre at the University of Malta praised the park as a “unique site” that will be open to technical divers. “All phases of our history are represented underwater,” says Gambin, citing many different types of rare ceramic remains that date to the 3rd century BC.

Malta tourism authorities proudly note that the Romans, Greeks, Carthaginians and other ancient civilizations helped shape Malta. Deepwater reefs can also be seen in the park.

“It is important for Underwater Cultural Heritage to be made accessible,” Gambin said. “I am very proud to be part of the team launching the Tower Wreck Deepwater Archaeological Park. Heritage Malta, together with the University of Malta and the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, is valorizing and sharing a unique site that is otherwise invisible to the vast majority of the world. Thanks to support from the Malta Airport Foundation, this ambitious and challenging project has gone from concept to reality.”

Shipwrecks and more

Gambin said Malta has “excellent all-round diving — from incredible underwater landscapes to historic shipwrecks at different depths. Our vision is to make Malta into a mecca for technical divers.”

Meanwhile, the Underwater Malta website will make the archeological site accessible to all through 360-degree videos, images, and 3D models, creating a virtual museum of the islands’ underwater archaeological sites. The marine park will be the site of a small museum with exhibits and video footage of the park.

“Through the Underwater Malta website, The Foundation also hopes to support Heritage Malta in bringing this project closer to people who are neither divers nor researchers but are keen to learn more about the Maltese Islands’ history through our underwater cultural heritage.” added Malta Airport Foundation chairman Josef Formosa Gauci.

More information can be found at www.underwatermalta.org.

Four of the most unique things to do in Yucatan, Mexico

April 26, 2023 No Comments

From exploring sunken ship wrecks, to getting up close and personal with crocodiles, adventure awaits in the Yucatan peninsula

Yucatan, Mexico is loaded with natural and cultural attractions. The region has become a fan favourite among international travellers due to its impressive archaeological remains, recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage sites. 

However, there are still plenty of activities that fly under the radar for visitors, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and friends alike. Here’s a look at some of the lesser-known attractions of the region.

Spend a night with crocodiles

In Celestun and Rio Lagartos, travellers can embark on an unforgettable adventure, ideal for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Expert guides lead visitors on a tour into the natural habitats of the region’s endemic species at nightfall.

As they venture into the mangroves, travellers will be guided under the starry sky as the moon illuminates the way as the group searches for the enigmatic swamp crocodile.

Relive the extinction of dinosaurs on Earth

In Puerto Progreso, located 30 minutes from the state capital of Mérida, travellers can find the new Meteorite Museum.

This unique and interactive museum opened its doors in 2022 and takes visitors of all ages on a journey through our planet’s 14-billion-year history and its interaction with the surrounding universe.

Visitors will also learn about the Earth’s fve mass extinctions, one of which was caused by the impact of a meteor in the Chicxulub area of the Yucatan Peninsula 66 million years ago, and led to the extinction of dinosaurs and marked the beginning of life on earth as we know it today. 

The impact of this meteor played an important role in shaping the geography of the Yucatan, which is home to a vast network of underground rivers and caves that have given rise to the existence of over 3,000 cenotes in the region. 

Explore sunken ships

The charming port of Sisal was once a thriving commercial centre during the colonial era. At its peak, the port served as the primary gateway for ships arriving from Havana. Today the port town stands out as one of the most vibrant and colourful destinations in the Yucatan. 

Travellers can explore this beautiful town during a seafront walk where it’s also possible to embark on an immersive snorkelling sea tour, diving approximately four meters deep to witness the remains of a British steamship that sunk many years ago.

The vessel is a breathtaking sight, perfectly illuminated by the warm Mexican sun on bright days. This unparalleled experience is ideal for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

Dive into the Mayan Underworld

Embark on a journey of natural wonder in the Mayan jungle and discover the magnificent Yucatan cenotes that lie within.

These stunning formations are filled with vibrant colours and long tree roots that seek out the fresh water that gives them life. The Nohmozon Cenote is one of the most renowned cenotes, offering visitors the chance to snorkel, dive, and marvel at the underwater beauty.

Its unique features set it apart from other cenotes in the area, boasting a large dome with stunning stalactite formations that are illuminated by sunlight shining through the crystal-clear blue waters.

Whether swimming, diving or simply observing, the remarkable transparency of the cenote will transport you to a world of fantasy.

Grand Palladium Resort & Spa Jamaica gets $27.5M upgrade

April 24, 2023 No Comments

Grand Palladium Hotel Group, which manages two hotels in Montego Bay, has undergone a thorough refurbishment of Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa.

The ambitious $27.5 million project includes the refurbishment of 537 suites, as well as various common areas such as the lobby, one of its show-cooking restaurants, and one of its most iconic bars.

New room upgrades

The newly 537 refurbished rooms of Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa are available after reopening at the beginning of the year.

Of these there are two new categories that stand out in 48 suites with sea views: 40 Superior Junior Suite Private Pool Ocean View and 8 Superior Suite Private Pool Oceanfront View. Surrounded by vegetation, these swim-up suites offer a private pool and terrace which are fully equipped with seating and a wooden pergola.

In the Superior Junior Suite Private Pool Ocean View, the pool is 86 sq ft. and the terrace is 161 sq ft.; and the Superior Suite Private Pool Oceanfront View is now the largest in the entire hotel, featuring a 161 sq ft. pool and terrace fully furnished with a dining room.

This room category has a private living room with a balcony, a larger bedroom, and a relaxation area that includes a chaise lounge and a large glass window that overlooks the ocean. 

Energy efficiency and technology have also played an important role. All rooms have energy-saving systems with sensors for light and air conditioning and the swim-up pools are heated through an efficient system that uses heat pumps.

Hotel revamp

The refurbishment highlights some of the hotel’s most emblematic spaces. Among them is The Infinity Saloon Bar, the meeting point of Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa with spectacular 180º views of the Caribbean Sea, as well as shows and live music.

Its open-air terrace now has elegant awnings and lounge-style furniture with sofas and large armchairs, perfect for resting while sipping delicious cocktails. In this area, black and white stripes in the furniture fabrics combine perfectly with the tropical touch of the mural in the bar decorated with the image of the national bird – the Hummingbird.

In the lobby, further enhancements of the English colonial style were made to the solid wood and furniture. The reception has been updated with white treillage lattices and mirrors that match perfectly with the bold black lamps installed in the area. 

 

In the culinary end, the MoBay show-cooking, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, has increased its capacity to accommodate up to a total of 286 diners.

Divided into four areas by screens, the space now has two new food stations to offer a greater variety of dishes and products. The design is marked by vegetation, mixed fabrics, and green, black, and light tones.

A complete, varied, and sustainable offer

Ideal for families, couples, friends or groups, Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts presents itself in Jamaica with a resort made up of the Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa and the Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa. The 517 suites and several areas of the latter also underwent an exhaustive renovation six years ago in order to reinforce the neoclassical design, with a colonial style and a strong British influence to the resort.

Located in Montego Bay, on the northwest coast of the country, Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Jamaica has 1,054 rooms of different categories and offers guests direct access to the beach, the opportunity to choose between 11 restaurants and 15 themed bars, various entertainment options for all ages, the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness center, as well as extensive facilities, including one of the largest pools in the Caribbean.

All these magnificent facilities and the excellent quality of service make Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Jamaica the ideal place to celebrate corporate events, dream weddings through the Weddings by Palladium brand, and special occasions such as bachelor or bachelorette parties, among others.

Air Transit offering year-round service to Marseilles

April 21, 2023 No Comments

Air Transat is expanding its operations in the French market, most notably on two exclusive direct routes departing from Montreal.

Following the annualization of its service to Lyon announced earlier this winter, the airline is also adding Marseille and the region of Provence to its roster of year-round destinations.

In addition, the non-stop service to Nantes will also be extended. Flights that initially ended in the fall will now be operated until 24 January, 2024, in order to offer travellers more flexibility when travelling to western France.

Air Transat is the only airline to offer direct flights from Canada to the airports of Marseille and Nantes. A total of seven French cities will be served non-stop this year, including three on a year-round schedule, namely Paris, Lyon, and now Marseille.

The route will mainly be operated with new generation Airbus A321LR aircraft featuring spacious cabins, state-of-the-art in-seat entertainment systems and the lowest fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 and NOx) in their class.