Tauck is launching two new river boats in France for 2026

October 25, 2024 No Comments

Tauck has announced that two new ships will be joining the company’s fleet of award-winning riverboats in 2026.

The two ships, which have not yet been named, will launch in spring 2026 following construction next year in Serbia and The Netherlands.

The two newbuilds include a 135-meter vessel that will sail on Tauck itineraries along the Rhone. Accommodating a maximum of just 130 guests in sixty-eight cabins, the 135-meter ship will boast twenty-two spacious 300-sq. ft. suites on its upper (Diamond) deck, thirty-four roomy 225-sq. ft. cabins primarily on the middle (Ruby) deck, and twelve 180-sq. ft. Category 1 cabins on the lower (Emerald) deck.

A slightly smaller (125-meter) sister ship will host up to 124 guests along the River Seine, with accommodations including twenty 300-sq. ft. suites on its Diamond Deck, thirty 225-sq. ft. cabins (mainly on the Ruby Deck), and twelve 180-sq. ft. Category 1 cabins on the Emerald Deck. At 180-sq. ft., the Category 1 cabins on both newbuilds will be 20% larger than the Category 1 cabins found on Tauck’s other riverboats.

In keeping with Tauck’s tradition of welcoming solo travelers, all Category 1 cabins on the new ships will have the single supplement waived on every sailing.

In addition, Tauck opened its 2026 river cruises for preliminary bookings earlier this month and guests are now able to reserve space on the 2026 itinerary and departure date of their choosing.

All guests who book 2026 cruises now will have the opportunity to cancel their bookings, and receive a full refund of their deposits, when pricing and final itinerary details are announced in early 2025.

For more information, visit www.tauck.ca.

Marriott brings The Luxury Collection’s first all-inclusive to Mexico

October 23, 2024 No Comments

 Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Isla Mujeres, Adult All-Inclusive has opened its doors to guests, marking the brand’s first all-inclusive offering in Mexico. Located on an idyllic small Island with outstretched views of white-sand beaches and the pristine Caribbean Sea, the beachside resort curates enriching experiences to connect guests with the natural beauty and culture of the destination.

The adults-only resort offers 109 spacious suites, six unique dining outlets, an oceanfront pool, an extensive selection of immersive activities and entertainment, and an upscale spa.

From the moment guests arrive at Cancun International Airport, a seamless journey to Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Isla Mujeres, Adult All-Inclusive begins. A swift 30-minute transfer transports them to the Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina at Puerto Cancun, where guests are invited to pre-check in while indulging in thoughtfully curated  refreshments. Guests then embark on an exclusive private vessel for a serene 20-minute journey.

Luxury and locale

Perched along the pristine Mexican coastline, the accommodations at the resort offer guests both ample privacy and luxurious comfort.
 
The resort offers a variety of luxurious suites, each featuring a private balcony with stunning views. Whether overlooking the ocean, mangroves, or the resort, every room is thoughtfully designed for both comfort and elegance.
 
From Deluxe Rooms with cozy sitting areas to spacious Premium Junior Suites and Grand Suites with expansive oceanfront views. For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, the Presidential Suite spans over 1,600 square feet of space, offering an unparalleled retreat. The property is situated in the most privileged natural beach front setting on the island providing one of the only places in Riviera Maya where you can see unique sunsets facing the Caribbean coastline.

Authentic culinary experiences

The resort offers six elevated culinary concepts helmed by Executive Chef Daniel Franco, where seasonal and local cuisine take centre stage.
 
The dining options include signature restaurants, a coffee shop, a poolside bar, and a food truck for quick and casual bites. Guests can indulge in a variety of immersive and flavourful experiences including:
 
●     BOGA, a culinary adventure focused on local ingredients and exquisite cooking methods, featuring authentic Mayan and Mexican cuisine during the day, and transitioning to elegant international dining flavors through theme nights.
●     With spectacular ocean views, Seasalt Rooftop blends the rich flavors and culinary traditions of both Mexican and European cuisines.
●     Botanik, a cozy and refined coffee and detox haven, where guests can sip on authentic drinks crafted with fresh and local ingredients.
●     An all-day restaurant, The Breeze Pool Bar offers refreshing beverages to guests lounging poolside.
●     For a high-end beachside experience, AlVento Beach Club features a range of food and beverage options, including fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and refreshing smoothies.
●     AlPaso, a food truck for nourishing and healthy grab-and-go snacks, bowls and smoothies inspired by the richness of Mayan culinary heritage.

For additional information and bookings visit www.marriott.com/cunim.

Six Senses is opening properties in Lake Como and Milan

October 21, 2024 No Comments

Six Senses has signed hotel management agreements with Gruppo Statuto as part of an exciting new chapter in its Italian story. Six Senses Milan and Six Senses Lake Como will follow the debut opening of Six Senses Rome in 2023 in the restored Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini and the announcement of the upcoming Six Senses Antognolla in Umbria.

IHG Hotels & Resorts’ fast-growing Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio now features nearly 100 open hotels in Europe, including eight Six Senses properties in Italy, Switzerland, France, Israel, Portugal, Spain and Türkiye.

Six Senses Milan enjoys a prime address at Via Brera 19 in the heart of the artistic Brera quarter, emblematic of authentic Milanese heritage and culture. Six Senses Lake Como will continue the legacy of the first hospitality destination opened on the shores of Lake Como in 1820 in Cadenabbia di Griante, an area rich in history, art, and nature, which over the years has drawn illustrious emperors, monarchs, writers and celebrities to its sparkling shores.

These two latest Italian signings also establish Gruppo Statuto as the leading Italian real estate group with a portfolio of international hotels, having acquired Six Senses London and Six Senses Ibiza in addition to Six Senses Rome.

Six Senses Milan

The galleries around Via Brera and masterpieces within the Pinacoteca Museum offer a pause from Milan’s high-energy rhythms.

Tucked away in this artists’ quarter, Six Senses Milan is therefore well positioned to take guests on a journey of discovery through craftsmanship and timeless style, from the arabescato marble to the antique brass detailing, handmade smoked glass, textured ceilings, and mosaic borders.

Six Senses Milan also showcases the brand’s deep commitment to sustainability, which flows from the materials and furnishings to the prominent space dedicated to the Earth Lab, tranquil internal courtyard, and specialty restaurant and deli featuring seasonal gastronomy.

Of the 68 guest rooms, 15 are suites, and two feature plunge pools. No Six Senses is complete without a state-of-the-art spa to administer a range of high-tech, high-touch treatments, and the rooftop bar and sky pool also make a splash.

Six Senses Lake Como

A nearby retreat for the Milanese, an inspiration for romantics Wordsworth, Shelley, and Byron, and a holiday spot for Queen Victoria and Hollywood legends: Lake Como has long been a dreamy leisure destination with a storied past and glamorous present.

Following a full restoration of the Grand Hotel Cadenabbia on the lake’s western shores, Six Senses Lake Como will blend a resort lifestyle with the region’s rich heritage for a unique retreat amid picturesque gardens, where rare plants and rejuvenated guests will flourish on the lake’s shores.

The number of guest rooms within the six-story property will be significantly reduced to accommodate 102 generously sized rooms and suites as well as more space dedicated to the spa and wellness area. The outdoor pool and sun deck will be complemented by a floating pool on the lake. Along with the specialty restaurant, the terrace bar and restaurant with quintessential lake views on the fourth floor will no doubt continue to inspire poetry, prose, and proposals.

IHG more than doubled its Luxury & Lifestyle offering in Italy in 2023, which also saw the return of the InterContinental brand with the opening of InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace. Six Senses Milan and Six Senses Lake Como join 30 open hotels in the country, and an additional eight in development, including brand debuts for the Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and Vignette Collection brands.

Six Senses Milan is set to open in 2025 and Six Senses Lake Como in 2028. In the meantime, for more on the global Six Senses portfolio, or to book a stay, visit sixsenses.com.

 

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Viking’s newest Egypt ship takes you to some of the best temples

October 18, 2024 No Comments

Viking has taken delivery of the company’s newest ship for the Nile River, the Viking Sobek. 

The 82-guest Viking Sobek joins the company’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art ships for the Nile River and will sail Viking’s popular 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.

With 41 staterooms, the new Viking Sobek is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships with the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. An identical sister ship to the Viking Osiris, the Viking Aton and the Viking Hathor, the Viking Sobek features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace.

Other ships in the Egypt fleet include the Viking Ra and the MS Antares. Viking plans to welcome four additional ships in the next two years—the Viking Amun and the Viking Thoth in 2025 and the Viking Sekhmet and the Viking Ptah in 2026—which would bring Viking’s fleet to 10 vessels on the Nile River.

Viking's Pharaoh's & Pyramids itinerary

During the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, or the Grand Egyptian Museum.

Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring visits to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colourful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.

For more information, visit www.viking.com.

 

Four Seasons and Lucid team up for sustainable driving experiences

October 16, 2024 No Comments

Global luxury hospitality leader Four Seasons and Lucid Group, Inc., maker of the world’s most advanced electric vehicles, announce a new partnership grounded in a shared vision of an exceptional, sustainable lifestyle.

The collaboration underscores both companies’ commitment to environmental stewardship and responds to a growing guest desire for added flexibility and unique, eco-friendly experiences during their stay.

Program elements include the following offerings at participating Four Seasons properties:

Complimentary driving experience

Based on availability and bookable at no cost both on-site and online, guests can reserve a Lucid vehicle for their own use. Concierge teams will also provide a suggested route map highlighting the best of the surrounding locales, allowing guests the flexibility and freedom to explore a destination at their leisure.

Chauffeured Lucid house car

Four Seasons guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the comforts of a chauffeured Lucid house car in addition to those available for guests to drive themselves.

Electric charging stations

Lucid is also providing electric vehicle chargers, as necessary. Lucid chargers are compatible with other electric vehicle types, allowing both hotel guests and community members to conveniently charge their own vehicles.

Program rollout is anticipated to begin this Fall at participating Four Seasons hotels and resorts in the US, with additional properties in North America, Europe and the Middle East to be added to the program in the months following. 

For more information, visit www.fourseasons.com.

All-day pampering awaits at the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa

October 14, 2024 No Comments

Suspended on limestone cliffs above the rushing rapids of the gorge below, the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa provides an indulging, five-star retreat in the heart of nature.

Walking through the streets of Elora, you’d be forgiven for thinking you might be anywhere else but a small, Ontario town. All along Metcalfe and surrounding streets, stores housed in 19th century limestone sell everything from handmade silk lampshades spun in art deco designs, to locally-made home furnishings and used books.

Like any good small town, there are also a handful of comfortable cafes and ice cream shops selling those nostalgic Moosetracks and Bubblegum scoops.

But the lifeblood of the town is the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, a five-star, luxury boutique property with a fine-dining restaurant and full-service spa that’s perched above the rushing waters of the Elora Gorge.

About the Elora Mill

Opened in 2018 under the Pearle Hospitality Group, the Elora Mill has a long and colourful history that dates back nearly 200 years, to 1832 when William Gilkison, a Scottish naval captain, purchased 14,000 acres of land and settled the town on the banks of the Grand River. In 1833, Gilkison constructed a sawmill which served the town until the early 1900s.

Over the years, the property also had stints as a distillery (the site of the hotel’s present-day kitchen), as well as a flour mill that ceased operations in 1974, when it was converted to the Elora Mill Inn. Following the old inn’s closure in 2010, a $27 million renovation project saw the property reopen eight years later in June 2018 as the four-storey Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, turning the tiny town of Elora into a full-fledged luxury destination flanked year round by guests from all over the world.

Farm-to-table dining

On the first floor of the hotel, you’ll find the two-storey restaurant which features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the rapids. Using a farm-to-table dining approach that extends to all menus, highlights include the lobster and smoked halibut agnolotti with seasonal hand-picked chanterelles and the field greens salad with pan roasted chicken, made using locally-sourced produce from the Pearle Farm.

Down below, guests can visit the restaurant’s recently opened wine cellar, which is home to more than 4,000 bottles. The Elora Mill’s team of friendly in-house sommeliers can also provide expert pairing advice on any dish.

Rooms with a view

Working with the original footprint of the mill, luxury interior designer Lori Morris was picked to decorate all 30 rooms in three styles—rustic, modern and French. There are eight room categories to choose from, with no two designed identically. Soft neutrals blend harmoniously with the natural limestone walls and exposed wooden beams. Lavish touches create an atmosphere so indulging, you find yourself longing for just one more day on a weekend getaway. 

Throw open the balcony doors of the Terrace Suite and gaze at the rushing rapids of the Elora Gorge below. Additional in-room highlights include a king-sized bed, a seasonal indoor wood burning fireplace perfect for autumn nights, and a Nespresso coffee machine. At the end of the evening, retreat to your terrace and lounge by the outdoor fire with a glass of wine, or one of the afte rdinner cocktails that can be ordered to your room—we recommend the Campfire Nightcap, made with a smoky Sombra mezcal, sweet Amaro Montenegro, Crème de Cacao, cold brew espresso and agave. Or, slip off your oversized plush robe and into the soaker tub.

Elements of relaxation continue throughout the hotel, starting on the first floor at the spa, where cliffside views immediately transport you away from the stresses of daily life. Recently, Elora Mill introduced a series of day packages which include the Daybreak ($350 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.), with a complimentary breakfast; the Midday ($425 from 12 to 5 p.m.) which includes lunch, and Seize the Day ($750 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), which is perfect for those looking for a full day of pampering.

Along with a signature body treatment, highlights of all three packages include use of the Nordic dry sauna, eucalyptus steam room, hot tub, and heated rooftop pool, which stays open year round. Cocktails, wine by the glass and small bites, like warm marinated olives, can be enjoyed pool side or in the relaxation lounge.

For rates and availability, visit eloramill.ca.

 

This article first appeared in the Fall 2024 issue of OFFSHORE travel Magazine. Click here to subscribe to your free copy.

These are the top five places in Europe to discover with Le Boat

October 11, 2024 No Comments

Whether adventurers are seeking time with friends, a romantic escape, or a family getaway, Le Boat offers the perfect experience to explore the enchanting beauty of Europe’s canals and rivers.

Here are the top five destinations in Europe to visit in 2025:

 

France—Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is celebrated for its picturesque landscapes and rich culture. Travelers can sail through charming towns, indulge in exquisite local cuisine, and enjoy world-class wines. With opportunities for leisurely picnics under the shade of plane trees and breathtaking sunsets, the Canal du Midi remains a top choice for many.

Italy—The Venetian Canals

Italy’s enchanting canals, particularly in Venice, are a must-visit in 2025. Travelers can cruise through romantic waterways, enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, and immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture. The bustling markets and rich art and history make Italy a beloved destination for adventurers.

France—The Camargue

Known for its wild beauty, the Camargue features salt flats, flamingos, and wild horses. This unique region offers a sensory feast with its aromatic herbs and fresh seafood. Visitors can explore quaint villages, sample regional wines, and delve into the rich history that characterizes this extraordinary landscape.

England—The Thames

Cruising along the iconic Thames River allows travelers to experience the heart of England. From historic landmarks in London to the serene countryside of Oxfordshire, the Thames offers diverse attractions. Guests can savor traditional English fare at riverside pubs, visit royal estates, and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of this famous waterway.

Scotland— The Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness

Scotland’s Caledonian Canal and the legendary Loch Ness promise magical experiences. Guests can navigate breathtaking landscapes, ancient castles, and charming villages while indulging in hearty Scottish cuisine and fine whisky. The folklore of Loch Ness adds a layer of intrigue to this captivating region.

For more information, or to plan your own adventure to Europe with Le Boat, visit www.leboat.ca.

Ritz-Carlton brand returns to Cancun with 131-room luxury hotel

October 7, 2024 No Comments

Marriott International, Inc. announced an agreement with FibraHotel, Fibra Danhos and Beyond Ventures to bring The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun, Punta Nizuc to the area.

The property is slated to include a 131-key luxury hotel, developed and owned through a joint venture between FibraHotel and Fibra Danhos, along with 126 branded residences in a LEED certified building, developed by Beyond Ventures.

Set to welcome guests and residents in 2027, The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun, Punta Nizuc will offer all the pleasures of one of the world’s most coveted beach destinations, set on an exclusive peninsula that boasts over a private shoreline.

Guests will enjoy unparalleled ocean views and access to world-class amenities. The project’s design will be led by the acclaimed architectural firms Lissoni & Partners and Cherem Arquitectos. It will include exceptional services and amenities, such as a sprawling oceanfront pool complex, a destination spa, six gourmet restaurants, and exclusive residential amenities, all serviced by The Ritz-Carlton.

The return of The Ritz-Carlton to Cancun underscores the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations.

Backroads adds 40 new walking & hiking trips just for women

October 4, 2024 No Comments

Backroads has expanded its Women’s Adventures with more than 40 walking and hiking trips and 125 departures available in 2025.

Exclusively for women—solo travellers, mothers, daughters, sisters and friends—Women’s Adventures were an instant hit after the announcement last fall, with 2024 trips quickly booking to capacity.

The first trip ran in May, and the offering continues to gain momentum and garner rave reviews as word spreads. The company projects more than a 200 percent increase in Women’s Adventures guests for 2025. The collection features the same expert trip design, flexible itineraries, exceptional Trip Leaders and world-class support that are hallmarks of all Backroads trips.

“Women of all ages have been a significant part of the growth in active adventure travel so we expected our Women’s Adventures would be well received, but we are thrilled with the overwhelmingly enthusiastic response,” said Backroads executive vice-president, Avery Hale Smith. “We’ve heard from many women—solo travellers and those who travel with friends or family—that the trips feel supportive, inspiring and rejuvenating and they love how the camaraderie and bonding is so organic.”

New tours launching in 2025

Backroads Women’s Adventures are available for immediate booking. For the complete collection and for more information, visit Backroads.com.

Westin Bora Bora opens with 128 stunning overwater bungalows

October 2, 2024 No Comments

The highly-anticipated Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa is now open, emerging as the newest and most captivating retreat in the luxurious Bora Bora.

Having recently completed an extensive property-wide renovation and rebrand, The Westin Bora Bora is nestled at the base of the majestic Mount Otemanu, boasting the largest collection of overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, alongside expansive beachside villas.

“We are excited to unveil this property as the first resort to open in Bora Bora since 2017, bringing the dream of Bora Bora alive like never before,” said César Marques, general manager of The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa. “The Westin Bora Bora blends the serene landscape of the island with top-tier accommodations, breathtaking ocean views, and a wide array of on- and off-property experiences, ensuring an unforgettable stay for every guest.”

About the Westin Bora Bora

Set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Otemanu, the fully renovated beach resort offers a swim-up pool bar, private lagoons and 142 luxurious bungalows and villas, including an impressive 128 overwater bungalows.

Guests will be treated to a host of world-class amenities, including the largest swimming pool in Bora Bora – an infinity pool at the heart of the resort, bordered by six cabanas facing the beach, a swim-up pool bar and waterfall cascading from the second floor into the pool – as well as a private lagoon, diverse culinary experiences, and locally-inspired wellness offerings.

At the renowned Eco Center Bora Bora, the resort will support the vital mission of protecting sea turtles and marine ecosystems, championing environment stewardship in their tropical paradise.

Rates start at $1,000. For more information about The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa, visit https://www.westinborabora.com.