According to this study, one in four Canadians like to plan their vacations early

September 4, 2024 No Comments

Canadians are redefining what it means to go on vacation, with a new study from Flight Centre revealing that the vacation experience begins long before travellers board the plane.

According to data collected by YouGov, 25 per cent of Canadians feel that their holiday starts during the planning and booking stage, with those who use travel agents being almost twice as likely to experience this early surge of excitement compared to their DIY counterparts.

Key insights

Early Planners: One in four Canadians (25 per cent) believe their vacation begins the moment they start planning their trip. This early onset of vacation vibes is particularly pronounced among Millennials, with 29 per cent of this group reporting that their excitement kicks off during the planning phase, compared to only 19 per cent of Gen Xers.

Airport Enthusiasts: Nearly two in five Canadians (37 per cent) find themselves slipping into vacation mode as soon as they arrive at the airport. This sentiment is especially strong among women, 40 per cent of whom feel that their holiday begins at the airport, compared to 34 per cent of men.

Destination Arrival: For others, the journey truly begins upon arrival at their destination, with around 28 per cent of Canadians saying they only consider themselves on vacation once they’ve reached their travel spot. Gen Xers, in particular, are more destination-focused, with 33 per cent feeling the vacation vibes only upon arrival, compared to 24 per cent of Millennials.

Accommodation Check-in: Just under one in ten (seven per cent) believe their vacation starts when they check into their accommodation.

Where to next?

When it comes to choosing travel destinations, Canadians lean heavily on the opinions of friends and family (65 per cent), available sales and travel deals (52 per cent), and the advice of travel experts (36 per cent).

Plus, the current market dynamics also offer a golden opportunity for budget-savvy travellers. With exclusive deals and cheaper flights available online now, including savings of up to 20 per cent as summer demand wanes, Canadians can enjoy their dream vacation destinations while stretching their dollars.

Flight Centre travel experts offer more than just bookings. With the help of trusted experts, Canadians are extending their vacations into the planning phases, making every step of the journey—from the first connection to the final destination—a memorable part of their holiday.

Blue Diamond Resorts adds private island booking experience

September 2, 2024 No Comments

Blue Diamond Resorts has unveiled the latest in luxury with its new Private Island Diamond Experience, now available exclusively at Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only, in Jamaica.

Set against the tranquil backdrop of the Caribbean, the Private Island Diamond Experience offers an unparalleled adults-only retreat where privacy and personalization are at the forefront.

Guests staying in select Diamond Club suite categories at Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters can book one of four luxurious beach cabanas on this pristine 111-square-foot private island, poised over the turquoise waters of Montego Bay.

How to book your private island experience

Upon arrival, guests can book this exclusive service at check-in, where they will then be introduced to their private island butler, who will cater to their every desire throughout the experience.

From refreshing cold towels infused with tropical aromatherapy to daily live entertainment capturing the vibrant spirit of Jamaica, every detail is thoughtfully curated to enhance relaxation and well-being. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments from The Royal Spa, savor gourmet meals and premium cocktails delivered directly to their cabana, or simply unwind with uninterrupted views of the azure waters.

For those seeking an even more immersive experience, guests staying seven nights in the exclusive Diamond Club™ Chairman Beach Walk Out Swim Out Suite receive full-day access to the private island, ensuring a completely secluded retreat. This all-encompassing experience is meticulously planned, offering personalized touches such as a custom music and a specially stocked cooler filled with premium beverages, all designed to create an unforgettable stay.

Enticing add-ons

To further elevate their stay, guests can explore a range of enticing add-ons at an additional cost, including curated cabana packages featuring authentic Jamaican cuisine, premium spirits, and personalized touches that make each moment unique.

The Private Island Diamond Experience reflects Blue Diamond Resorts’ commitment to crafting unique, all-inclusive experiences that reflect the distinct personality of its resorts. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a special celebration, or simply a tranquil escape, this exclusive offering promises total customization in an idyllic setting, making it the perfect canvas for unforgettable memories.

Reserve your Private Island Diamond Experience today by booking any participating Diamond Club™ suite category here. For more information, visit royaltonresorts.com

74% of Canadians have done a multi-gen trip—and would do it again

August 30, 2024 No Comments

A new Censuswide survey by Beaches Resorts reveals every member of the family wants a seat on the plane.

The all-inclusive resort brand tapped into the ultimate experts in family travel, parents themselves, by polling more than 1,000 North American families with respondents ages 25-45. The results uncovered a growing desire to bring three or more generations together for more diverse and enriching family travel experiences.

Among the findings, 74 per cent of respondents who have taken a multi-generational vacation remain excited by the idea of extended family getaways, with 67 per cent of all parents prioritizing family travel to maximize time across generations.

 

Family first

Almost half of respondents are redefining their vacation preferences with a family-first mindset, prioritizing vacations that include multiple generations. In fact, 50 per cent of parents polled would prefer to take a multi-gen vacation over a vacation with just the kids – with 76 per cent agreeing travel is the ultimate way to make memories as an extended family.

Moreover, 57 per cent are interested in starting new family traditions centred around vacations with grandparents, with a resounding 69 per cent of parents eager for their children’s grandparents to join more of their family vacations.

While skip-generation trips have gained popularity, now more parents are eager to join the fun. In fact, 37 per cent of parents surveyed wished they could be part of grandparent-grandchild vacations, valuing the chance to create lasting memories together.

Travelling with grandparents

When it comes to grandparents, parents are connecting the tots: 70 per cent of respondents make the effort to facilitate time spent between their children and grandparents, with almost the same number of parents (67 per cent) wishing they’d spent more time with their own grandparents.

Of those parents who have taken a multi-generational vacation, 55 per cent are bringing their children’s grandparents along for the fun – a natural fit as 43 per cent said grandparents are traveling more than ever with almost half of them traveling internationally an average of twice per year, and 50 per cent of working grandparents taking PTO to go on vacation with their families.

According to the data, grandparents make the best travel buddies. Sixty-one per cent of respondents agreed that grandparents were more active than expected during travel, with 62 per cent citing they were more adventurous than expected.

When it comes to vacation planning, parents are tapping into this zest for adventure, with 63 per cent of parents saying vacations are more enriching when grandma is involved in the planning.

Seventy-two percent of parents said that grandparents are extremely helpful on vacation, with 59 per cent agreeing that having grandparents along for the trip eases stress. In fact, whereas a previous study by the Family Travel Association found that 50 per cent of grandparents covered all expenses on multi-gen trips, almost half of parents polled by Beaches Resorts (49 per cent) said they are willing to cover all expenses for grandparents to join their vacation.

On multi-gen vacations, 46 per cent of parents have booked/would book a second room for kids to stay with grandparents.

Parents and grandparents can rest easy that they are no longer cramping their kids’ vacation vibes. The data shows children are also placing value in spending time with family on vacation, with 72 per cent of respondents saying their kids have expressed an interest in travelling with their parents and grandparents.

Moreover, every moment counts, with 66 per cent saying their children would prefer family activities over the Kids Club at a hotel. This supports data uncovered in an earlier survey conducted by Beaches Resorts among parents of Gen Alpha children (those born in 2010 and later), where 70 per cent of traveling tweens preferred to enjoy activities with their parents while on vacation.

When presented with different criteria they look forward to when planning multi-gen vacations, the priority was on time spent together as a family, with options for activities (54 per cent), restaurants (54 per cent), large accommodations/connecting rooms (45 per cent) and the rare opportunity to have everyone in one place (36 per cent) valued most.

Ritz-Carlton’s super yacht debuts in Rome

August 28, 2024 No Comments

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection proudly introduces Ilma, its second new-build luxury super yacht, to its distinguished fleet.

The yacht embarked on its maiden voyage, a seven-night journey from Monte Carlo to Rome, on Sept. 2.

As the first and only luxury hospitality company at sea, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection advances its position at the forefront of the industry with a second yacht now sailing, illustrating a future-focused vision that keeps pushing the boundaries of luxury travel at sea.

Ilma measures 790 feet, offering 224 airy and intuitive suites, all with private terraces providing direct access to the sea. Stopping at signature and intimate ports of call, Ilma takes guests on enchanting itineraries to coveted destinations.

Ilma’s inaugural season in the Mediterranean includes ports of call visiting Santorini, Porto Cervo, and Valletta, before departing for the Caribbean, with stops in Virgin Gorda, Gustavia, and St. John. Ilma will additionally sail the North and Baltic Seas of Northern Europe—a first for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection—during the 2025 summer season offering immersive itineraries in dynamic and culturally rich destinations like Amsterdam, Stockholm, and Reykjavík.

The purposefully designed yacht accommodates up to 448 guests and offers among the highest space-to-guest and guest-to-staff ratios at sea.

On board the yacht

Ilma invites guests to discover five dining venues, a refreshed in-suite dining program, sevens bars, and a signature wine vault.

Highlights include two dining venues conceptualized by MICHELIN-starred restaurant chefs Fabio Trabocchi and Michael Mina.

The Beach House, designed by the Toronto-based luxury design firm Chapi Chapo Design, offers 180-degree views of the sea that seamlessly integrate with the coast, creating a daytime to nighttime experience where guests can relax and unwind.

The beach club-inspired venue draws from Peruvian and Pan-Latin cuisine, blending globally influenced flavors in a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere.

Designed to combine the luxury lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton with the casual freedom of a yachting vacation, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers bespoke voyages in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, and Central America.

Calling on unique and distinguished destinations, voyages typically span five to ten nights with an all-inclusive onboard journey and curated excursions ashore.

Spanning 790 feet, Ilma will offer 224 spacious, light-filled suites of varying categories, accommodating up to 448 guests. Slated to make its 2025 debut, Luminara will join Ilma and Evrima on voyages to secluded harbors and iconic cities.

Reflective of The Ritz-Carlton on land, each yacht offers personalized service, elevated dining experiences, and exclusive amenities.

Private charter options are also available, allowing guests to craft a truly tailored journey. For more information, visit ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com.

Windstar shows off newest ship with floor-to-ceiling windows

August 19, 2024 No Comments

Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises is unveiling a first look at its Star Seeker – a 224-guest, brand-new ship that will debut in January of 2026.  

Star Seeker will have 112 spacious suites, all but ten featuring a full private veranda or floor-to-ceiling infinity window.

The ship also boasts five dining options (all are included in Windstar’s cruise fare), a full-service spa with a grand entrance from the deck above, a fitness facility, and a fresh take on the line’s iconic Watersports Platform, which turns the ocean into an infinity pool by letting guests access the sea directly from the ship. 

“Guests aboard Star Seeker will experience a sense of tranquility in their suites; they are designed to be an oasis for relaxation,” says Stijn Creupelandt, vice president of hotel operations at Windstar Cruises. “We used light wood and a soothing color palette of light blues, greens, and natural browns – elements that reflect our Star Class style. Inspired by the sea, sky, and landscapes, these colours and textures create a serene atmosphere perfect for a relaxing getaway. In the ship’s public spaces and restaurants, you’ll find more vibrant hues inspired by sunrises and sunsets, including warm yellows, golds, and oranges, ensuring a harmonious blend of elegance and comfort throughout the ship.”

Three suite categories

Star Seeker features two Horizon Owner’s Suites, a new suite category for the line, at the aft of the ship on deck 7, which can be combined with adjacent suites for more space and multi-generational families.

Each comes with a wrap-around balcony offering spectacular vistas — perfect for evening cocktails or a private dinner. The two suites are Star Seeker’s most luxurious and spacious offerings; however, the ship has a full menu of suite offerings with 12 different accommodation types to choose from, many allowing triple occupancy. Star Seeker has 72 suites with large verandas where guests may sit outside and enjoy the view and fresh air.  New for Windstar, 30 infinity suites feature a large floor-to-ceiling infinity window that slides down half-way from the top to open the suite to refreshing sea breezes.

As on all Windstar ships, there are no interior cabins. Star Seeker’s 10 Oceanview suites have plenty of natural light and a view of the sea, a walk-in mosaic glass shower, and an inviting queen bed which can be converted into two twins if desired. All suites include a fully stocked mini-bar and refrigerator, interactive TV, safe, fresh fruit, and waffle weave robe and slippers. The four highest suite categories – Horizon, Star, Classic, Deluxe – add other amenities such as an Illy espresso machine, Canapes service, and fresh flowers.

Star Seeker is under construction in Portugal. The maiden voyage will be a Transatlantic sailing in early January from Malaga to Miami. After a christening event in Miami where the cruise line is headquartered, Star Seeker will sail its first voyage in the Caribbean and offer more cruises in the Caribbean before heading up the West Coast of the United States to Alaska for a full season of summer cruises.

From there, the ship will sail to Japan and bring back the line’s popular Japan itineraries before heading to Southeast Asia.

Details on Star Seeker’s Caribbean, Alaska, and Japan cruises will be announced first to Yacht Club members (loyalty members) and travel advisors – giving them priority access to book. In early September, Star Seeker’s itineraries will be announced publicly and available for all to book.  

Windstar will debut an additional new sister ship, Star Explorer, in December of 2026. 

More at www.windstarcruises.com/. 

These private jet itineraries could cost you almost $200,000

August 16, 2024 No Comments

Remote Lands, the ultra-luxe tour operator offering bespoke travel to 38 countries in Asia, unveils its 2025’s Private Jet Expedition itineraries with long-term partner, the preeminent luxury hospitality and lifestyle brand Aman.

These small-group adventures for up to 18 guests showcase diverse destinations from Morocco to Bhutan, highlighting the regions’ culture, history, cuisine and spirituality with an emphasis on experiences that can only be obtained through Remote Lands’ exclusive access.

Since 2013, Remote Lands and Aman have partnered to provide deep, meaningful jet expeditions unlike any other. Each trip includes accommodations in extraordinary Aman properties, private transport in an Airbus ACJ 319, and immersive, globe-spanning experiences such as a helicopter ride around Mount Everest followed by a Champagne breakfast at 14,000 feet, a hike to Bhutan’s resplendent cliffside Tiger’s Nest monastery, a private yacht excursion through the geological wonder of Phang Nga Bay, and a fashion show at the home of Cambodia’s top fashion designer.

About the itineraries

The highly customized itineraries offer the flexibility for guests to enjoy personalized touring with a private car, driver and guide for each couple or solo traveler, delving deeper into special interests and needs.

Remote Lands’ expert team of travel specialists ensure the once-in-a-lifetime experience is perfectly tailored to the individual, offering thoughtfully curated experiences with extraordinary people in special locations throughout the journey.

The Grandest Tour – April 19 – May 9, 2025 (21 Nights)

Rates start at $188,888 per person, based on double occupancy.

The Grandest Tour returns in 2025 offering guests lodging in six Aman sanctuaries across seven different countries, in just one three-week journey by private jet. Commencing at Aman Tokyo, guests will journey from the ultra-modern city to the ruins of the Classical Era in Greece where there will stay at modern day acropolis, Amanzoe. With stops in between to explore Vietnam’s stunning Vinh Hy Bay, to cruise through Thailand’s UNESCO-protected Phang Nga Bay aboard a yacht and experience a long-life blessing ceremony in Paro, Bhutan, this experience is a global journey of discovery. Guests will also enjoy a special touch down at the iconic Taj Mahal, and, new in 2025, have the chance to spend two nights in the ancient silk road city of Samarkand in Uzbekistan.

Around the World in Three Continents – September 7-27, 2025 (20 nights)

Rates start at $198,888 per person, based on double occupancy.

Spanning three continents, from Asia to Europe and concluding in northern Africa, Around the World in Three Continents is Remote Lands’ most diverse Aman Jet Expedition to date. Travelers will experience dramatic contrast, traveling through cities, deserts, tropical islands and ancient centers of civilization to see the palaces and temples of imperial Kyoto, the souks and medinas of imperial Marrakech, and more. The 20-night journey begins in Kyoto, with stops for relaxation on a private island in the Philippines; exploration of the world’s largest Buddhist temple in Borobudur, Indonesia; a private yacht excursion and dolphin quest in the Maldives; a visit to Al Alam Palace, the official residence of Sultan Qaboos in Oman; a tour of Venice with a private boat, captain and guide; and a sunrise hot air balloon flight at the conclusion in Marrakech, Morocco.

A Mindful and Cultural Journey – October 19 – November 2, 2025 (14 nights)

Rates start at $118,888 per person, based on double occupancy.

Travellers will learn about wellness and mindfulness on a journey through the spiritual heart of Asia to four Buddhist and Hindu influenced countries: Nepal, Bhutan, India and Sri Lanka. Hosted by an ordained Zen Master (Dharmacharya), the trip begins in the Himalayas and concludes on the tropical beaches of Sri Lanka. Highlights include a helicopter ride around Mt. Everest followed a Champagne breakfast at 14,000 feet, mindfulness sessions with a spiritual leader, and tiger safaris in Ranthambore National Park in India.

Discover Southeast Asia – November 2-15, 2025 (13 nights)

Rates start at $74,888 per person, based on double occupancy.

Discover Southeast Asia is an in-depth two-week cultural journey through the heart of a compelling and diverse region, taking in ancient civilizations, UNESCO-listed old towns, dramatic coastlines and metropolitan areas. Breaking new ground on Aman Jet Expeditions, guests will stay at the highly-anticipated Aman Nai Lert Bangkok, which is set to open in late 2024, in the exuberant Thailand capital of Bangkok. Guests will see an ethical elephant sanctuary in Laos, a fashion show at the home of Cambodia’s top fashion designer, a Baci ceremony with a Lao Prince, and the ancient Khmer temples of Angkor from a private helicopter tour above Siem Reap, Cambodia, while staying at Amansara, just a stone’s throw away from the UNESCO-listed temples.

For more information, including itineraries and pricing, visit remotelands.com. 

Virtuoso reveals new luxury trends, from hot destinations to coolcations

August 14, 2024 No Comments

Virtuoso has drawn upon its extensive network of travel advisors, preferred partners and high-net-worth/ultra-high-net-worth clientele to determine what’s new and next in luxury travel, while also revealing the data and insights that prove it.

Respected as the leading “Voice of Luxury” and industry trend forecaster, Virtuoso has based its findings on a data warehouse of (US) $80 billion in transactions and an ongoing series of surveys.

The results of the extensive research were shared at the 366h annual Virtuoso Travel Week, taking place Aug. 10-16, in Las Vegas at Bellagio Resort & Casino, ARIA Resort & Casino, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and Vdara Hotel & Spa.

The key takeaway is that travel remains robust, even against a backdrop of global challenges. Year-to-date sales have surpassed those of 2023 for the same January-June timeframe by 14 per cent and skyrocketed 211 per cent over 2019, with future 2025-2026 sales already up 38 per cent over last year. The demand for travel advisors remains high, with a 76 percent increase in consumers seeking out travel advisors so far this year via the network’s site, virtuoso.com.

Adventures far and wide

While domestic travel dominates in fall 2024, travellers are venturing afar in record numbers, with Italy, France, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Spain, Saint Barthelemy, Portugal, Canada and Japan topping the list.

The largest growth areas year-over-year are Canada (+168 per cent), Japan (+160 per cent) and Saint Barthelemy (+155 per cent).

Major cities like Paris, London, New York, Rome and Tokyo are showing significant increases compared to 2023, while destinations such as Taormina (Sicily), Napa and Amsterdam are seeing rate declines, making this fall a great time to visit.

For the festive season, Mexico, Hawaii, Anguilla, Costa Rica and Saint Barthelemy are the most sought-after destinations, with Saint Lucia, the Dominican Republic and Grenada coming on strong with double- and triple-digit percentage increases.

Notably, Maui is up 66 percent for the holidays compared to last year. Fall and festive season bookings are expected to be strong, with fall bookings up 23 per cent and festive season bookings up 32 per cent compared to 2023. Additionally, Virtuoso’s preferred hotels are seeing rate increases of 46 per cent in the Caribbean and eight percent in Mexico.

Exclusive experiences remain hot

When it comes to the hottest travel trends, Virtuoso advisors have noted continued demand for exclusive-use experiences such as VIP transportation, luxury yachts and private residences, along with itineraries that incorporate next-level stimulation and engagement.

Requests for these exceptionally high-end experiences have increased for 89 per cent of Virtuoso advisors.

Leading trends in ultraluxe travel include expedition cruises, exotic destinations (such as Fiji, the Maldives and Thailand) and African safaris. Top motivations for ultraluxe travel are celebrations, passion-point experiences (like sports, arts, culture, concerts and festivals) and once-in-a-lifetime trips.

A focus on feelings

Of particular interest is a notable shift from focusing on a trip to-do list to an emphasis on how one feels during travel.

Virtuoso’s research has identified that travellers prioritize curiosity and exploration (77 per cent), joy and happiness (65 per cent) and awe and wonder of nature (57 percent) as the top emotional drivers for luxury travellers. The intangibles of a travel experience are more compelling than checking off bucket list items.

"Coolcations" heat up

Other trends include a rise in travel to cooler climates, or “Coolcations,” to destinations in northern Europe and Canada, which are up 44 percent this summer, while visits to warmer spots, including Italy, Greece and France, have decreased by .5 per cent.

Wellness travel is also expected to be a major trend this year and into the next, with a focus on “Silver Bullet” wellness – a sub-trend coined by Globetrender in a forthcoming co-authored report with Virtuoso – highlighting hyper-specific, targeted “cures” tailored to individual wellness needs.

A survey revealed that 70 per cent of travellers are seeking relaxation and disconnection through wellness travel, while half are interested in hyper-personalized experiences and mental resets.

Other key trends

Solo female travel, dubbed as “Wander Women” by Virtuoso and Globetrender, has also seen significant growth, with women making up 71 percent of solo travellers.

Additionally, as Gen Z begins having children in 2025 (Beta babies), the industry for the first time will see seven generations traveling simultaneously. Legacy travel, or the act of bringing all these generations together to celebrate milestones or to seek nostalgia and reconnection (24 percent according to the 2024 Virtuoso Brand & Travel Tracker study) is becoming increasingly popular. And Virtuoso shared that when surveyed, 32 percent of Gen Zs were planning to travel with children over the next year, with 42 per cent of them planning to do so under the guidance of a travel advisor.

Travel to off-the-beaten-path destinations and at off-peak times is growing in popularity, aligning with the trend toward more responsible and sustainable travel as a response to overtourism.

Please access complete findings here.

Photo: Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg 

Sustainably-focused Four Seasons Mallora opens on a working vineyard

August 12, 2024 No Comments

In the heart of a vast private estate with carefully restored gardens, seaside woodlands, rugged cliffs and secret beaches, a former hideout for the glitterati has reemerged as a sustainable and soulful luxury holiday destination that retains its glam-chic charm.

Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor is a 40-hectare (100-acre) resort is set amid a large estate that also includes a working vineyard.

With sustainable practices at the core of the Resort’s restoration effort, all 110 guest rooms and suites have terraces facing the sea, and some also offer private plunge pools. The décor of both private and public spaces is bright and airy with natural materials throughout, evoking a seaside glamour that is both nostalgic and very modern.

In the surrounding landscape, native plantings of fragrant flowers are now growing among towering pine groves, allowing for walking paths, exotic garden settings for weddings and other events, and quiet spaces for solitary reflection.

A foodie's paradise

The culinary experience at Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor begins with multiple on-site dining options overseen by Executive Chef Francesco Mannelli. Mel offers a farm-and-sea-fresh Mediterranean menu for breakfast and dinner.

Quiosc is an open kitchen and terrace shaded by pines by one of the Resort pools, and down on the beach, Xiringuito serves up refreshing drinks and light fare. In the evening, guests will gather at the round bar at Cercle, where expert bartenders will shake up inventive cocktails and pour from the Resort’s exquisite wine list.

Oenophiles will love getting to know the grapes and the growers at the winery located within the same private estate as the Resort.

The concierge team at Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor has been busy creating a series of very special experiences around the island, including a morning spent browsing a farmer’s market with a local guide introducing guests to farmers, bakers and cheesemakers as they gather delicacies for a traditional aperitivo. For those who can’t resist stocking up, the Resort can arrange shipping as well.

Connoisseurs of fine olive oils will want to book the chauffeured Sa Balsa tour, which takes guests to a picturesque pond encircled by stone walls, originally designed to supply fresh water to olive groves.  Here, guests will learn the estate’s history before tucking into a Mallorcan buffet and open bar.

For a full-day experience like no other, the Ancient Finca Discovery tour takes guests to a private finca (a Spanish farm) to learn about Mediterranean agricultural techniques and the extensive estate’s habitat regeneration program. A hands-on cooking class at sunset in a 13th-century stone house sees everyone pitching in to prepare a rustic meal before a local astronomer guides a magical stargazing session.

More to come: Shima, a sophisticated Nikkei-style dining experience, will debut in 2025. Guests who return for the Resort’s second season can also pick up freshly baked pastries at Sospir and enjoy cool treats at Crocant ice cream parlour.

Relax and recharge

The Resort’s beautiful setting within a coastal woodland lends itself to the Japanese art of Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing – the practice of immersing in natural sights, sounds, scents and textures under the guidance of a mindfulness expert.

Or, sign up for an oil painting workshop led by a local artist and capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape for a unique memento of one’s visit to Mallorca. Fitness buffs will find plenty of choice for an active vacation, including a state-of-the-art gym on site.

More to come: A pop-up spa with two treatment rooms is now open for the 2024 season, with a new, full-service spa debuting in 2025.

For more information, visit fourseasons.com/mallorca/

Some of Seabourn’s new ultra-luxe immersive itineraries are up to 48 days long

August 9, 2024 No Comments

Seabourn has announced a new program of immersive itineraries available on Seabourn Quest as the ship explores Australia and New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii and the Panama Canal from December 2025 to April 2026.

Seabourn Quest will sail a total of 22 itineraries with 46 destinations in 13 countries, including a new series of 10-day voyages sailing roundtrip from Papeete (Tahiti) that provide a full immersion in French Polynesia.

With itineraries ranging from 10 to 48 days, Seabourn Quest will offer abundant opportunities for guests to take in new sights and scenes and experience authentic cultures through a combination of iconic destinations and smaller, less-explored ports.

In addition to the new 10-day roundtrip voyages from Papeete, the season includes a 19-day Panama Canal Passage from Long Beach, Calif., to Miami; 15-day voyages in Australia and New Zealand; overnight calls on select voyages at coastal Cairns and Melbourne in Australia, and Bora Bora and Tahiti in French Polynesia; and extended stays in Napier in New Zealand, Honolulu and Kona in Hawaii, Puerto Vallarta in Mexico, and Cartagena on the Caribbean coast of Colombia.

The Seabourn difference

Guests will experience the unparalleled Seabourn all-inclusive difference on board the intimate, yacht-like Seabourn Quest.

The ship’s dedicated onboard team provides intuitive and authentic service, ensuring that every guest enjoys a personalized and extraordinary experience. From the moment of embarkation, guests will have endless opportunities to create lasting Seabourn Moments.

In addition, the ship is equipped with SpaceX’s Starlink, the leader in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology, to provide guests with greater connectivity to share their experiences with friends and family. These new voyages will also include bespoke, curated onboard entertainment and Seabourn Conversations programs, featuring renowned performers and guest speakers.

For more details about Seabourn, including itineraries, pricing and departure dates, visit www.seabourn.com.

Explora Journeys offers a series of tropical Caribbean escapes

August 7, 2024 No Comments

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group unveils a series of exclusive Caribbean destination experiences.

Guests can discover these meticulously crafted experiences during their Caribbean journeys, blending celebrated destinations with off-the-beaten-path ports.

With EXPLORA II arriving in the Caribbean in November 2024 and EXPLORA I in December 2024, guests will have unparalleled opportunities to immerse themselves in the Caribbean’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures, all while indulging in exceptional luxury.

EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II will visit a varied array of destinations in the Caribbean until March 2025.

These include Gustavia in St. Barts, Oranjestad in Aruba, and St. John’s in Antigua. Itineraries also feature ports such as Belize City, Bequia in the Grenadines, and Cozumel and Progreso in Mexico. Each destination is selected to provide a unique and enriching exploration experience.

Willemstad, Curaçao 

Guests can snorkel on the vivid reefs of Director’s Bay, encountering abundant marine life. They will learn from a marine biologist about his foundation’s work to restore endangered coral reefs. The journey continues aboard the Pura Vida yacht to discover Curaçao’s rich natural environment and includes a visit to a tranquil mangrove reservoir, accessible only by boat, for hiking, swimming, and immersion in nature.

 

Saint-Pierre, Martinique, Lesser Antilles, French West Indies

In a small group, guests will discover Martinican rum culture at Rhum Clément, the birthplace of ‘rhum agricole.’ This includes a guided exploration of the large estate and its lush gardens, a tour of three rum cellars, and tastings of barrel-aged rum paired with delicious chef-crafted foods.

 

Gustavia, Saint Barthélemy

Guests can spend the day at the five-star Rosewood Le Guanahani resort, savouring a three-course meal on a golden sandy beach. This experience includes lounging in luxury and snorkelling in the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea, providing the ultimate in beachside relaxation and culinary delight.

Progreso (Merida), Mexico

Guests will explore the ancient Mayan city of Uxmal, known for its stunning Puuc-style architecture and celestial alignments. They will see the Pyramid of the Soothsayer and the Palace of the Governor, enjoy an exclusive lunch of regional specialties in the open air of the former hacienda church, and partake in an authentic Mayan purification ceremony within the natural beauty of Xocnaceh.

Cozumel, Mexico

Highlights of this experience include a scenic 45-minute flight over the Caribbean Sea and Yucatán Jungle, landing minutes from the ruins. Arriving before the daily influx of visitors allows for a more intimate and immersive experience. A knowledgeable guide will lead guests through the history and architecture of this ancient city.

 

Guests can book these exclusive destination experiences via the Explora Experience Centre, their preferred travel advisor, or directly on the Explora Journeys website.