Adults-only paradise opens in the heart of Tulum’s jungle

October 6, 2023 No Comments

Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club, part of World of Hyatt, is now open.

The 300-suite and private villa adults-only resort’s opening marks the expansion of the Inclusive Collection’s presence in Mexico to 44 total resorts and the twelfth Secrets Resort & Spa branded property in the country.

Perfectly situated in the heart of downtown Tulum, just minutes from the beach within the luxury Aldea Zama Complex, Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club pays homage to the surroundings. Minutes away from the property is Secrets Tulum Beach Club, providing a lively atmosphere and pristine beaches, while the nearby city of Tulum fuels exploration to the ancient Mayan sites.

The resort, which also features a beachfront villa at the Secrets Tulum Beach Club, was designed by award winning architect Michael Edmond. With cenote-style architecture, circular buildings and peaceful courtyards, guests are surrounded by serene and modern environment in a romantic setting, with décor elements of water, wood, and endemic lush vegetation.

Luxurious accommodations

Majestic views of the exotic landscape, pools and jungle-inspired areas await guests at Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club, with 300 elegant suites appointed with contemporary organic material with endemic wood elements for the ultimate sanctuary.

Unique bathrooms are featured in each suite, with rock elements and round spa-like soaking tubs on the terraces, while swim out suites offer a secluded, luxurious experience. Upgraded amenities and mini-bar service provide an extra level of luxury, and a private furnished balcony or terrace allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the rich vegetation and natural surroundings of the resort.

For guests looking for an elevated level of luxury, Preferred Club suites offer all standard amenities and services as well as additional amenities and services such as suites in premium locations, a private lounge, privileged location and amenities, upgraded mini-bar service, exclusive rooftop plunge pool and beach style swimming pool, upgraded bathroom amenities, complimentary access to the hydrotherapy circuit once per stay, and more.

Located at Secrets Tulum Beach Club is an extraordinary five-bedroom private villa, which offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. With a capacity of 10 guests, this beachfront villa is decorated with an earthy, barefoot luxury style, featuring Chukum, a tree native to Tulum, finishes, stone and marble touches, and a private elevator. Guests are pampered in luxury with a private chef and 24-hour concierge services, lounge areas, private living space, a private plunge pool, and a rooftop replete with wet bar for relaxation with stunning views of the sunset.

Culinary offerings

Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club offers eight dining options, including three à la carte gourmet restaurants, all without reservations required. Serving regional favorites from around the world, dishes are appointed in a fresh interpretation, featuring Mediterranean, Asian, and multiple international cuisines.

For a more secluded experience, 24-hour dining offers the opportunity to dine from their suite. Special menu options, such as gluten-free and vegetarian, are also available for guests to enjoy.

Culinary adventures await guests at the resort, including gourmet cooking classes, tequila tastings and themed dining nights, while the Chef’s Table tour of the kitchen and appetizers, wine tasting, and romantic dinners are available for an additional cost.

Alongside the eight dining options, four bars and lounges are available for guests to enjoy including a rooftop bar, music lounge and sports bar serving top-shelf spirits and premium domestic and international beverages.

Beach Club

Located in the heart of Tulum’s picturesque Hotel Zone, Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club offers the Secrets Tulum Beach Club just minutes from the main resort. Guests will enjoy a lively atmosphere by the ocean, with two eateries and a bar with magnificent ocean views, allowing guests to savor tropical drinks or grab a bite to eat while relaxing in a Bali bed overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

The Secrets Tulum Beach Club offers private spa cabins and shower rooms, allowing guests to unwind for the day with ease.

For more information, visit hyattinclusivecollection.com

This Canadian airline is now flying to 31 new European cities

October 4, 2023 No Comments

WestJet guests will gain access to 31 additional cities across 11 European countries from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) through an expansion of WestJet’s codeshare agreement with Air France.

As a result of a successful 10-year partnership, the two airlines have connected millions of travellers between Canada and Europe with the convenience of one-ticket and the ability to earn WestJet Dollars throughout their entire journey.

Previously, WestJet and Air France’s code share agreement included 22 destinations through Charles De Gaulle Airport, all of which will be maintained as the number of onward destinations in Europe now grows to 53 which will be accessible as part of the WestJet network.

Due to exceptional demand for its seasonal service to the city of love, WestJet has extended service between Calgaryand Paris to now operate year-round. The once seasonal route will continue to fly on WestJet’s 787 Dreamliner up to seven days per week during peak travel periods and function as the ideal connection hub for our guests to seamlessly connect onto Air France to these additional destinations.

Four Seasons is building a luxury mega yacht to sail the Caribbean & Mediterranean

October 2, 2023 No Comments

Four Seasons, together with luxury yachting company Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings Ltd. and  Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, continues to work on the release of the inaugural journey of Four Seasons Yachts.

The venture brings together an unparalleled group of partners: Nadim Ashi and Philip Levine, entrepreneurs and bold visionaries of this distinctive yacht experience, paired with Four Seasons luxury hospitality leadership.

Setting sail in late 2025, the vessel will be the first in the Four Seasons Yachts fleet. With a signed contract for the construction of the second Four Seasons vessel with Fincantieri to be delivered in late November 2026, this second vessel’s order is worth more than EUR 400 million.

Stunning & spacious suites

The first Four Seasons Yacht features 95 suites with remarkable custom design, focused on removing barriers between guests, the sea, and their surroundings.

To enjoy outdoor yachting moments, each suite features extensive terrace decks ranging from 100 square feet (9.3 square metres) for the deluxe suite, to nearly 5,000 square feet (457 square metres) for the Funnel Suite, which will be the yacht’s most expansive accommodation.

This immense suite can be further expanded with vertical and horizontal connectivity, allowing guests to have one of the largest continuously connected living spaces at sea. The Funnel Suite’s iconic floor-to-ceiling wraparound curved glass window modules, made up of the largest contiguous piece of glass at sea, will offer stunning 280-degree panoramic views.

Life on board

Another design first is the yacht’s bespoke onboard transverse marina, allowing guests easy access to a world of water sports adventure filled with state-of-the-art water toys in ports that are traditionally exclusive to privately-owned yachts.

Outdoors, water sports enthusiasts will enjoy private and exclusive sailing, snorkelling and wind surfing. Inside, an elegant lounge area outfitted with a stylish bar and dedicated al fresco seating areas reveals panoramic ocean views.

Rentable custom crafted sea limousines designed for transfers and coastal grand touring along with a pair of beach landers are also part of the ship’s signature marina experience, accessible in most anchor ports. What’s more, a dedicated marina team ensures that guests receive the impeccable service they have come to expect from Four Seasons.

For those wanting to enjoy the sun from the pool deck, the canoe-aft deck will boast a 20-metre (66 foot) pool, one of the largest at sea. It will serve as the bustling centre of the vessel and a gathering place for guests who share an affinity for the refined, leisurely pace of yachting. The salt-water pool is designed so that it can be quickly emptied, the floor raised and converted into a multi-function area for performances, fashion shows, and weddings to name a few programming options.

Sailing in 2025/2026

The 2025/26 inaugural season ushers in the start of extraordinary yachting itineraries offered throughout winter and spring in the Caribbean.

The yacht will then return to the Mediterranean to cruise iconic yachting locales, from the French and Italian Rivieras to the Adriatic coastline and Greek Isles. The average journey will be seven days, affording back-to-back voyages of 21 days with distinct daily deployments. The first year’s planning represents 33 countries, 137 unique destinations, and 76 late night evenings and/or overnights.

Unique Four Seasons pre-and-post hotel and overland programs are in development and will be unveiled soon.

Island hopping in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

September 29, 2023 No Comments

It’s breakfast time at Young Island Resort, a 13-acre private island just offshore of St. Vincent, and I’ve requested one of the house specialties: Creole French toast on homemade cinnamon bread. 

“What we are using is our very famous rum — the St. Vincent strong rum — and it’s very lethal,” my server Donovan says with a smile as he pours the rum over the coconut shavings topping the French toast, lights a match, holds it close to the bread and stands on watch as the rum bursts into flames. “Voila!” To extinguish the fire, I drench the plate with a healthy pour of maple syrup. I then proceed to cut into it with anticipation. Beachside breakfast is served! 

When it comes to the French toast at Young Island Resort, guests have plenty of options. While the homemade bread is a house specialty, they can opt for other breads, too, including homemade coconut bread or banana bread. “We’re known for our bread,” adds general manager, Bianca Porter. “When I’m on the road guests will tell me, ‘we always remember the bread!’”

As I found out, the Sunset Very Strong Rum used in the French toast is an overproof 84.5% alc/vol white rum which can only be consumed in destination as 70% ABV is the legal limit before it’s considered a flammable flight risk. Perhaps this is where Johnny Depp drew inspiration for the rum-loving pirate he played, Captain Jack Sparrow, in Pirates of the Caribbean—Young Island Resort, with its 29 unique beach and hillside cottages, actually housed the cast of the film. 

Keeping out the Kardashians

At Petit St. Vincent, a 115-acre private island resort on the southern tip of the Grenadines, room service runs a little bit differently than at your standard Caribbean resorts. Instead of dialing down to the desk for my order, I take a menu form from my bedroom, fill it out and place the sheet of paper in the wooden mailbox slot at the end of the driveway to my secluded villa. Then, to signal the attention of the staff, I raise up the small yellow flag before heading back inside. 

The next day at exactly the requested time of 8 a.m., one of the resort’s butlers rings the bell outside of my villa and sets up the eggs benedict feast on the private cliffside balcony. Each comes complete with a hammock, stocked mini bar and a jar of homemade cookies.

Butler service is included at Petit St. Vincent for no additional charge. There are 22 one-and-two bedroom cottages, each equipped with one red and one yellow flag, which communicate various service requests to staff.

“Red, when that’s raised up to the top, it means do not disturb; nobody comes to the cottage. The yellow flag is used for anything else, — breakfast, lunch and dinner — if you run out of wine again and want some more wine, and it can go up as many times during the day as you like,” explains Petit St. Vincent’s general manager, Matt Semark, who added that the system is also set up to deliver lunch at the various beach areas around the island. 

Sand and sun

Naturally, I also test the effectiveness of this process during a leisurely afternoon soaking up the sun on a secluded stretch of beach. Shortly after filling out our lunch order, two servers approached my group’s chaises. They’re carrying our meals, along with a bottle of sauvignon blanc in a wine chiller and our ice cream preserved in chilled containers so it doesn’t melt by the time we get to dessert.

“The really cool thing about the Grenadines and St. Vincent is that we’re all very different in style. We all offer slightly different experiences,” Semark notes. “For us, it’s more about privacy, seclusion, space and hiding away. It’s a very personalized experience. We have a very long average length of stay and we have a 63 per cent return rate annually.”

Although the private island resort with 22 cottages appeals to celebrities like Ed Sheeran — who has posted about staying there so he’s allowed to talk about it — Semark explains that they’re very discreet about their clientele and provide top-notch service in an understated way.

“We’ve turned the Kardashians away five times. We want to stay low key,” he says. “We’re an unpretentious luxury.”

The Caribbean you’re looking for 

 Described as a throwback to the Caribbean before mass tourism, the destination is the antithesis to other Caribbean countries pushing to grow their visitor arrivals. 

From the purposeful lack of TVs in many hotel rooms across the destination, to an eye-catching ‘anti-chain’ food vendor with the words Bequia Pizza Hut hand painted across the front, the charm of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is its authentic old world Caribbean vibe. 

“Our tagline is the Caribbean you’re looking for… we like to think of St. Vincent and the Grenadines as the Caribbean that’s completely untouched and unspoiled, with character and charm,” says Glenn Beache, CEO of the St. Vincent and The Grenadines Tourism Authority. “We’re not a mass tourism destination nor do we want to be. We want to maintain what makes us special.”

Made up of 32 islands and cays, the destination features diverse islands like Young Island, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau, Union Island, Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent — as well as The Tobago Cays, a horseshoe shaped reef with five deserted islets.

“We like to keep it hidden. It’s a place we like to keep secret. We don’t talk about it too much,” explains Batu Erem, the general manager for Soho Beach House Canouan, which opened in 2021. “What we like to tailor, what we like to share is that this is your rustic, rugged Robin Crusoe-y type of experience that you’re not going to get in the Northern Leeward islands but it still exists here. It’s casual wellness. This is the place that you come to unplug, this is the place where you come to rejuvenate. There’s no TV in the rooms. This is that little haven and that’s why we like to keep it a secret. It’s like being back in time in the old Caribbean, and that’s what we try to preserve here.”

Soho Beach House Canouan is the only Caribbean outpost for Soho House, which typically operates on a membership-only basis. However, this boutique 40-bedroom property on Grand Bay Beach is open to non-member bookings as well. One of the perks of a stay here is that guests get to keep the travel sized skincare products in each room.

Similarly, at the largest of the Grenadine islands, Bequia Beach Hotel’s general manager Elisabeth Alleyne says she’s often rejected when asking guests for an online review to spread the word about the hotel. 

“I asked a guest to give us a TripAdvisor review and they said ‘No. I don’t want people to find out about it,’” she says. “We want customers to come here and see the genuine part, that it can be a little rustic, we need to keep that. I think it’s the way the whole country is built – that it’s still very genuine. It’s more about the people than the flashy industry.”

The family-owned property is yet another that doesn’t have TVs in the room so that guests are focused on connecting with each other and the destination. 

“Each island has its own charm; it’s a different vibe wherever you go,” sums up Marlon Joseph, hospitality officer, SVGTA. “But it’s all chill.”

This story first appeared in the Fall 2023 issue of OFFSHORE. For the full version, click here to read the digital magazine. 

This cruise ship will take you on a 155-day trip around the world

September 27, 2023 No Comments

Small ship cruise line Azamara has unveiled its 2026 World Cruise, setting sail from Miami, Florida on Jan. 6, 2026.

This grand expedition, concluding in the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain, is a golden ticket to explore more than 35 countries and experience the enchanting allure of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Azamara Onward’s world cruise is designed to grant guests an extended exploration with 55 late nights and overnights, 60 Extended Destination Days, three exclusive World Cruise events and 10 AzAmazing events, allowing for a deeper connection with each mesmerizing wonder and the diverse tapestry of cultures that surround them.

Excursion highlights

  • Chichen Itza: Wander through ancient realms, where the whispers of the great pyramid of Kulkulcan and the preserved Mayan ballpark intertwine with the enchanting tales of the Temple of Venus and the Temple of Warriors, all brought to life with the magic of virtual- and augmented-reality technology.
  • Christ the Redeemer: Experience the iconic Christ the Redeemer within a grand multi-day exploration, unveiling Rio’s architectural gems, the panoramic splendors of Sugar Loaf Mountain, the captivating beauty of Iguazu Falls, and the ancient mysteries of Easter Island’s statues. Each moment is immersed in luxury and flavored with the diverse and spirited essence of these legendary locales, weaving a tapestry of unforgettable, enriching experiences.
  • Taj Mahal: Discover the timeless Taj Mahal, a symbol of love, bathed in the changing hues of dawn. This multi-day journey unveils the majestic Agra Fort and enchanting “Baby Taj,” immersing you in vibrant cultures, diverse flavors of Indian cuisine, and the luxury of The Oberoi hotels.
  • Machu Picchu: Explore the enigmatic beauty of Machu Picchu and the ancient wonders of Cusco, including the colossal Sacsayhuaman Fortress, a symbol of Inca ingenuity. Enjoy the luxury of Palacio del Inca and exquisite Peruvian cuisine as you traverse breathtaking landscapes and discover revered sites like Qoricancha and the majestic Cathedral, rich with history and culture.
  • Colosseum: Experience the iconic Colosseum through the eyes of a gladiator with exclusive access, surrounded by ancient bleachers, where echoes of the past resonate. Explore this architectural marvel and the remnants of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, steeped in history, before indulging in a delightful Italian lunch, completing this immersive journey into Rome’s illustrious past.
  • The Great Wall of China: Travelers will have the chance to fly to Beijing for three nights to explore the Forbidden City with an expert guide and visit the Great Wall to take in one of the world’s greatest wonders of architectural history. Guests can also ride the cable car to explore the Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace before heading to Hong Kong for three nights.
  • Petra: Guests can journey to the desert city of Petra in Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and once a mysterious city isolated in a forbidden valley, to hike through the ‘Siq’ and discover the Rose Red City. Travelers will have the unique opportunity to view and learn more about the Treasury, the Greek Theatre, ancient Royal Tombs, Colonnaded Street, and the Temple of Qasr Al-Bint.

 Exclusive access

World cruisers will have access to a destination-concierge, and pre-cruise dedicated call centre specialists as they plan their journey on Azamara. In addition to checking off countless bucket list travel destinations and experiences, Azamara’s 2026 World Cruise offers more than $22,000* in exclusive amenities, including 13 exclusive world voyage special events, $3,000 in onboard credit, an additional $4,000 onboard credit for shore excursions, airfare credit*, pre- and post-cruise transfers, a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, a premium beverage package upgrade, weekly laundry service, WiFi service and more. World cruisers will also enjoy the amenities that are always included with Always Azamara: five dining options, beverages including alcohol 24/7, tips and gratuities, cultural events, and unlimited self-service laundry.

 To learn more, please visit azamara.com/worldcruise2026.

 

Stunning hotel opens inside a palace on island of Madeira

September 25, 2023 No Comments

The Reserve is an exclusive luxury hotel concept set within the renowned Savoy Palace in Madeira, Portugal.

At The Reserve, every detail is carefully curated to create a truly exceptional stay. From the moment their booking is confirmed at this premier hideaway, they are connected with their own GEPA (The Reserve’s acronym for Guest Experience Personal Assistant), via email and WhatsApp, which tailors and prepares the stay to the guests’ specific requests and requirements prior to arrival.

To ensure a seamless visit, guests staying at The Reserve and Savoy Palace can enjoy the signature private car service (for an extra fee) upon their arrival and departure at Madeira International Airport, allowing for a smooth and hassle-free transition and being the perfect addition to the meet and greet service at the airport, which is complimentary to all guests at The Reserve on both arrival and departure.

Once guests arrive at the hotel, a dedicated private elevator will take them from the street-level lobby to the 16th floor of the Savoy Palace building where guests will find the Jacarandá Lounge & Club – the heart of The Reserve. Here guests will find a stunning rooftop pool, offering a panoramic view of Funchal, exclusive to The Reserve guests, which further enhances the already VIP experience. 

Contemporary suites

The Reserve presents an array of 40 elegantly appointed rooms designed to cater to various preferences. The spacious pool suites offer a private sanctuary, with a personal terrace and very own plunge pool; while the deluxe rooms provide a cozy retreat with serene sea views of the breathtaking Funchal Bay.

Every suite is thoughtfully furnished with lavish bedding and contemporary amenities, assuring the highest degree of comfort and relaxation within an ambiance of unmatched privacy and luxury.

The decor in the rooms consists of four different color palettes inspired by the colors and flora of the beautiful island of Madeira. 

Central to the concept of The Reserve is the dedicated GEPA available around the clock. As the single point of contact for all guest needs, the GEPA liaises with all hotel departments and external parties and manages, monitors, adjusts and adapts the different aspects of the guest’s stay and activities in the island to ensure a flawless and personalized visit tailored to each guest’s desires. 

With its soft opening scheduled for Dec. 1 and grand opening for Jan. 15, 2024, The Reserve is poised to become the ultimate destination for discerning travelers seeking an extraordinary experience in Madeira Island, Portugal. 

Get up close with wildlife on any of these exciting Africa trips

September 22, 2023 No Comments

Africal Travel Inc., a luxury safari outfitter has launched a new 2024 brochure offering authentic wildlife and cultural encounters across 16 destinations in Africa from Cape Town to Cairo and their newest destination, Morocco.

With their continued sustainable travel efforts, African Travel Inc. is now incorporating a conscious travel experience across all of their itineraries from their newest journeys to the most popular itineraries that benefit wildlife conservation or local communities.

Each conscious travel experience is carefully chosen for the positive social or environmental impact they have for the communities ATI explores as well as for their guests who experience them. These experiences directly advance the Sustainability Development Goals set by the United Nations. 

New Morocco adventures

Guests are invited to discover Morocco’s cultural treasures, centuries-old traditions and culinary delights. On the new 10-day Discover Morocco  and 12-day Flavors of Morocco sensory journeys, they will enjoy a meaningful experience with a visit to the Marjana Argan Co-operative in the southwest region of the country which is owned by more than 80 local women.

Clients will learn more about the life of these Berber women who use only traditional methods of making argan oil. They will have the opportunity to purchase the women’s quality products and make a positive economic impact. In Marrakech, both itineraries offer an interactive cooking class, conducted by talented local chefs. Guests will follow the chef’s demonstration and prepare their own savoury meal using traditional cooking tools with aromatic herbs and spices.

Wildlife wonders

Adventure seekers will discover extraordinary wildlife experiences on ATI”s new 10-day Delta, Rivers and Falls safari through the heart of Botswana’s and Zambia’s staggeringly beautiful landscapes.

They will witness a stunning aerial view of the Okavango Delta as they arrive at their sustainable luxury lodge, Atzaro Okavango via a scenic helicopter flight. The camp’s knowledgeable guides offer guests unparalleled sightings of leopards, cheetahs, lions, elephants, hippos, gazelles, and buffalo. Clients will enjoy staying at camps which support conservation, education of local children and community empowerment.

In Livingstone, they will have an opportunity to tour the Maunga clinic, visit a school and participate in a lunch program serving local kids. This experience includes a donation to support the local community.



This week-long trip in a Rolls Royce through Napa Valley is a must for foodies

September 20, 2023 No Comments

Luxury car aficionados and culinary enthusiasts are invited this fall to experience one of North America’s food and wine capitals during a week-long driving journey through Napa Valley.

Announced earlier this year, the complete Four Seasons Drive Experience through Napa Valley itinerary from Oct. 29 to Nov. 4, 2023 is now available to book. Celebrating the romance of road travel, guests will explore Napa Valley via customized routes in one of several luxury and sports cars available for rent, including a Rolls Royce Cullinan, McLaren GT, Lamborghini Aventador S, Ferrari F8 Spider, Bentley Continental, Aston Martin DBX, and a Porsche Taycan to name a few. 

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley welcomes guests to a one-of-a-kind wine country resort set within a world-class working vineyard.

Home to Elusa Winery, the property features panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards, a distinctive indoor-outdoor environment, and the best of grape-to-glass lifestyle when not on the road.

Day 1

Guests will arrive at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley and will be treated to a wine tasting at Elusa Winery prior to a welcome dinner at the Resort’s vineyard Barn while being serenaded by the sounds of live acoustic music. Other surprise touches await to take the evening from the magical to the sublime.

Day 2

A scenic drive with ocean views along the California coastline takes guests to Hog Island Oyster Co., where they will indulge in a tasting session while mastering the art of oyster shucking. 

The coastal landscape is contrasted by drives through ancient redwoods followed by a dining experience at Promontory Winery, located in an unmarked territory beyond the southwestern borderlands of Oakville with majestic views of Napa Valley.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley

Day 3

Guests will start their day with breakfast at Auro, Calistoga’s only Michelin-starred dining destination, with the sprawling Palisades Mountains as its backdrop. This is followed by a half-day drive to Chappellet Winery for a private picnic lunch overlooking views of Lake Hennessey.

Chappellet is renowned for producing some of the highest-standard Cabernet Sauvignons and mountain-grown wines and is recognized as one of the great Napa Valley wineries.  Thereafter, guests embark on a lakeside drive towards Cervantes Family Vineyard Ranch, a remote and rugged 1,100-acre (445 hectare) ranch in the far eastern reaches of Napa Valley.

Upon arrival, guests can engage in activities including skeet shooting, horse-riding, and a grape picking experience, followed by an eventful evening of dining, dancing and entertainment and a shuttle service on standby for seamless transfer back to the resort.

Day 4

Guests will first stop for a tour at SingleThread Farm, a 24-acre (10 hectare) working farm located in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country.  The tour includes simple delights such as a flower posy-making experience, followed by an indulgent six-course Michelin-starred lunch at Single Thread Restaurant, exclusive to Drive attendees. 

While at the resort between activities, guests can spend their leisure time indulging in a signature spa treatment at Spa Talisa, exploring the surrounding hiking trails, playing tennis, or lounging by the scenic pool. The journey continues with a wine-tasting tour at Opus One Winery, known for cultivating five traditional Bordeaux grape varieties.

The day winds to a close with a scenic dinner featuring wine pairings and picturesque views.

Auro, Michelin-starred Restaurant at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley

Day 5

The day begins with a breathtaking morning drive to San Francisco Bay, where guests will indulge in local Californian cuisine alongside panoramic vistas of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. An atmospheric journey through the Napa Valley during harvest season follows and concludes with an intimate dining experience at Michelin-starred Auro.

There, guests will be treated to a seasonally inspired, five-course tasting menu by acclaimed Chef Rogelio Garcia and his team.  

Day 6

Around sunrise, guests take to the skies for an early morning hot-air balloon ride for panoramic views of the vineyards and undulating mountains. The final visit among the impressive list of wineries is ADAMVS, renowned for mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignons and boasting an innovative tasting room and wine library.

Additional tailored experiences include a visit to NBC Pottery for a craft experience, artisanal olive oil tasting at Grove 45, and a gala dinner on a private estate with live music for entertainment.

Four of the best staycations to have this autumn

September 18, 2023 No Comments

While summer may have quietly slipped away, most nights in September and October are still favourable enough to sit outside.

Recognizing that summer in Canada is indeed too short, many hotels and resorts stay open through autumn, with a number of unique packages and experiences suited to the new season.

Whether you’re looking for a place to stay over the Thanksgiving long weekend, or simply want one last road trip retreat before the leaves drop for good, here are four fantastic properties to discover in Ontario and New York state.

Rawley Resort | Port Severn, ON

Just one-and-a-half hours from Toronto, Rawley Resort is a slice of paradise hiding out in Georgian Bay. Formerly an old hunting lodge used during the height of pine logging in the region, this year marks the resort’s 100th birthday.

To celebrate the occasion, Rawley Resort  redesigned their luxurious Lighthouse45 Restaurant — including a complete makeover of its menu, featuring delicious farm-to-table eats with foraged ingredients. To guide the creation of the new menu, Rawley has recruited Chef Chris Locke, formerly of Toronto’s first farm-to-table restaurant, Marben. Enjoy live music in the dining room every Thursday to Sunday, or opt to dine al fresco and watch the sun go down. 

Guests can choose to stay in spacious suites with king bed options, walkout terraces (these are pet-friendly) or two-level waterside lofts, complete with a private upper balcony.

Looking for a bit of added elegance? Request to have a bottle of chilled champagne and decadent chocolate covered strawberries brought to your room for $60. Rawley Resort is also home to an outstanding spa that offers a number of treatments, but their signature service is the facials. Opt for a gemstone facial ($135) or try out a non-surgical facelift with one of the RMD structural remodeling facial treatments, done using electrotherapy technologies.

Rawley Resort is open for booking early May through early October.

Wander the Resort | Bloomfield, ON

Set on the shores of Lake Ontario, Wander the Resort is a sophisticated Canadian cottage experience quite like no other. Located in Prince Edward County, about two hours from Toronto, Wander is home to just 10 dreamy cabins, all decked out in a Nordic aesthetic. From pool and lakeside cabins to a massive A-frame treehouse, their interiors range in size from 500 to 1,400 square feet and feature homey accents, like sheepskin rugs and cool wooden decor.

Thoughtful amenities, like handcrafted bath and shower products, an indoor and an outdoor gas fireplace, organic cotton linens and heated floors make this spot feel like your home away from home for the weekend.

The lakeside restaurant on site, Gather, offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu using locally sourced ingredients, and is open for weekend brunch, as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Home to some of the province’s most stunning fall foliage, Prince Edward County is packed with outdoor opportunities, including sustainable farm visits, vineyard tastings, microbreweries and fall fairs. Guests who book at Wander from Sept. 17 to Oct. 19 can receive a $100 food and beverage credit to be used at Gather.

Chautauqua Harbor Hotel | Celoron, NY

Chautauqua Harbor Hotel is a luxury, four-season waterfront resort on the shores of Lake Chautauqua  in the state of New York. Independently owned and operated, the property features generously-sized guestrooms and suites, many of which boast panoramic lake views and balconies, which make for the perfect autumn evening with the addition of a glass of wine.

At the lively Carousel Bar, guests can enjoy wood-fired pizzas and craft beers, while at the Lake House Tap & Grill, American fare and al fresco dining can be enjoyed on the patio. 

Plenty of other amenities, like several indoor and outdoor pools, fire pits and an abundance of nature for outdoor activities make Chautauqua Harbor a fantastic place to visit year-round. Part of Lake Erie wine country, Chautauqua County is the largest grape-cultivating county outside of California, and is home to a number of vineyards and wineries that offer unique tastings and award-winning wines.

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel | Clayton, NY

Stationed on the St. Lawrence River, 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel is the only AAA Four Diamond Hotel in the 1000 Islands region. It offers 105 handsomely appointed guest rooms and suites, many with panoramic river views and balconies.

There’s also an indoor heated pool and hot tub and a state-of-the-art fitness centre for guests. As the nights get cooler, The Riverside Patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine or a pint around one of the outdoor fire pits. Fine dining is also offered at the Seaway Grille and the 1000 Islands Bar. 

Just in time for autumn, the annual Apple Days event returns from Sept. 5 to Oct. 15. Celebrating apple-picking season in Upstate New York, visitors can enjoy a plethora of seasonal amenities, such as apples and fresh cider at check-in, and special menu items featuring delicious apple-inspired dishes and signature cocktails. Guests will receive a list of nearby orchards they can visit for apple picking.

Hyatt is opening more than 30 hotels in North America

September 15, 2023 No Comments

Hyatt continues to strategically grow its luxury and lifestyle brand footprint with a strong development pipeline of more than 30 planned hotels and resorts in the Americas region through 2025, including the expansion of Hyatt brands into new markets.

Hyatt continues to thoughtfully expand its luxury and lifestyle brand footprint in key leisure markets that matter most to guests and World of Hyatt members with these newly announced hotel deals:

Hyatt Centric Santo Domingo (2024) 

This will be the first Hyatt Centric hotel in the Dominican Republic, located in Santo Domingo’s modern business district. With 130 guestrooms and suites and nearly 5,000 sq. ft. of meeting and events space, the lifestyle hotel will place guests at the heart of the action near prominent restaurants, shopping malls, art galleries and electric nightlife.

Cas en Bas Beach Resort (2024)

This will be the first Destination by Hyatt branded resort and residences on Saint Lucia. Idyllically nestled between a championship golf course and Cas en Bas Bay with a spectacular sandy beach, amenities will include a pool, spa and wellness center, and an exciting range of dining options, nightlife and events.

Hyatt Centric Querétaro (2025)

This property will be located in downtown Querétaro, a city in central Mexico (northwest of Mexico City), known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The hotel will feature 105 modern guestrooms, a rooftop pool, and multiple dining concepts including a coffee shop serving an all-day menu, a rooftop bar with expansive views of the city and two signature restaurants.

Hyatt Centric Querétaro (2025)

New stay experiences

With a focus on new openings in sought-after destinations across the U.S., Canada, Latin America and Caribbean, Hyatt’s recent and upcoming hotels through 2025 invite guests, World of Hyatt members, and customers to experience Hyatt’s signature luxury and lifestyle brands across distinct brand portfolios:

Boundless Collection hotels that will make their debut and deliver best-in-class offerings and compelling experiences designed to excite and inspire, include:

  • The Thompson Hotels brand will soon be debuting new properties in top leisure locations across the United States and Mexico, including:
    • Thompson Houston (2023) will feature 172 guestrooms including 34 suites, all boasting floor-to-ceiling windows with unobstructed views of downtown Houston and Buffalo Bayou Park, more than 17,000 sq. ft. of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, three swanky restaurants with distinct culinary concepts, a private heli-port, a full-service sanctuary spa and wellness center devoted to full body restoration, a 1-acre rooftop and an expansive pool deck.
    • Thompson Palm Springs (2024) is poised to become the desert’s most exciting destination tailored for influential locals and sophisticated globetrotters alike. Offering a collection of 168 bungalow-inspired guestrooms and suites with private balconies to capture breathtaking views of the ethereal Palm Springs desert, the highly anticipated destination will also introduce a spirited Levantine Mediterranean dining concept, full-service spa, two rooftop pools, exciting new retail, dynamic event space and more.
    • Thompson South Beach (2024) will mark the Thompson Hotels brand entry into Florida comprised of 150 guestrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, a rooftop pool, bar and restaurant, and a ground floor restaurant and retail space. The hotel, designed by French architect Rudy Ricciotti, will be adjacent to the Frank Gehry-designed New World Center and the newly reimagined Miami Beach Convention Center.
    • Thompson Monterrey (2025) will be the first urban Thompson Hotels property in Mexico. This 150-room lifestyle hotel will be located within a 31-floor tower amid a mixed-use complex, creating a sought-after hub with sophisticated dining and a rooftop bar.
  • Caption By Hyatt Chattanooga Downtown (2024) will join Caption by Hyatt Beale Street Memphis to grow the Caption by Hyatt brand presence in the state of Tennessee, delivering an upscale, select-service lifestyle hospitality experience.
  • Hyatt Centric Escazu San Jose (2024) will be the Hyatt Centric brand’s first hotel in Costa Rica and offer 161 modern guestrooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant, full-service bar, and 4,000 sq. ft. of event space.
  • Andaz Toronto-Yorkville (2025) will be the second Andaz hotel in Canada, joining Andaz Ottawa Byward Market. The luxury hotel will be located within The One, a luxury mixed-use tower that is poised to be the tallest building in Canada. The hotel will offer 138 guestrooms and suites, 6,800 sq. ft. of event space, a spa and several food and beverage experiences.
  • Andaz Miami Beach (2025) will mark the first Andaz hotel in Florida, as a rebrand from The Confidante, Miami Beach. With three towers overlooking Miami Beach, the hotel will include a redesigned lobby, pool and recreation area, reinvented food and beverage experiences, a full-service spa, upgraded event spaces, as well as modernized guestrooms with an expanded mix of suites.
  • Andaz Turks & Caicos at Grace Bay (2025) will be the first Hyatt hotel in Turks & Caicos and feature 59-keys and 73 residential units with breathtaking views of Grace Bay Beach, three restaurants and bars, a full service indoor and outdoor spa, a yoga studio, state-of-the-art indoor fitness facility and Pickleball courts.
Thompson Houston King Guestroom

Timeless Collection hotels deliver the comforts of a home away from home with a consistently elevated experience. New properties expected to open by the end of 2025 include:

  • Park Hyatt Los Cabos at Cabo del Sol (2024) will be the first Park Hyatt hotel in Mexico and will be a master-planned golf resort stretching along two miles of pristine beach. Located 20 minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas, within the exclusive community of Cabo del Sol and overlooking the Sea of Cortez, the luxury resort will boast 163 ocean-view guestrooms and suites, 19 villas and residences, stunning pools, a world-class golf course, a full-service spa, fitness and wellness centre, plus 35,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meetings and events space. 
  • Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort & Spa (2024) will mark the Grand Hyatt brand’s debut in Arizona, when it is rebranded from Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch. The iconic resort will undergo extensive renovations and enhancements of its guestrooms, pools, food and beverage experiences, its beloved Spa Avania and fitness center, public areas and amenities, including the expansion of the hotel’s indoor and outdoor meeting and event spaces.
  • Park Hyatt Mexico City (2025) will feature 155 guestrooms and will be located on the upscale Campos Eliseos Street overlooking Mexico City’s iconic Chapultepec Park.
  • Grand Hyatt Cancún Beach Resort (2025) will sit on the eastern part of the Yucatán Peninsula and boast 500 guestrooms complemented by panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and Isla Mujeres. The resort will also feature 11 dining experiences, six bars, an indoor and outdoor destination spa and fitness center, and over 16,000 sq. ft. of gathering space.
  • Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Hotel & Residences (2025) will be located on a premium 7.1-acre site of famed Seven Mile Beach, less than one mile from the center of Grand Cayman’s capital city, George Town. With 351 guestrooms, the hotel will celebrate the diverse ecology of Grand Cayman and offer six food and beverage venues, a 9,000-square-foot destination spa and fitness centre, three swimming pools and 25,000 sq. ft. of indoor meeting and event space, which is expected to be the largest function space in the Cayman Islands.
Impression Isla Mujeres

Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt resorts deliver immersive, elevated experiences where everything is seamlessly included. The Inclusive Collection is expected to welcome new resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico, including:

  • Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa (2024) will be the first Secrets Resort & Spa property on St. Lucia, providing guests with access to an unspoiled white-sand beach located just minutes from the capital city of Castries. The property will be comprised of 342 guestrooms and suites, five dining choices, five bars and lounges, and a world-class Secrets Spa by Pevonia.
  • Upcoming Inclusive Collection properties opening in Mexico and the Caribbean: adults-only, luxury all-inclusive resorts including Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club, Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres and Secrets Playa Esmerelda in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; family-friendly Dreams Estrella Del Mar Mazatlan Golf & Spa Resort, Dreams Grand Island in Cancun, and Dreams Playa Esmerelda in Punta Cana; and the debut of the Hyatt Vivid Hotels & Resorts brand with Hyatt Vivid Grand Island in Cancun.