A Fresh Peak: Aman Debuts Rosa Alpina in Alpine Splendour

August 12, 2025

Tucked into the storybook village of San Cassiano in Italy’s South Tyrol, Rosa Alpina has long been a cherished retreat for those in the know — a place where alpine charm meets refined hospitality. Now, under the Aman banner, this iconic property reopens after a transformative renovation, offering a new chapter in Dolomite luxury.

The relaunch blends Aman’s signature serenity and sleek design sensibility with Rosa Alpina’s deep-rooted ties to the region. Interiors by architect Luigi Vietti and designer Bambi Sloane have been subtly refreshed, honouring the building’s heritage while adding a contemporary Alpine polish. Think warm timber, natural stone, and plush textures, all framed by sweeping mountain views.

Aman Rosa Alpina‘s 52 rooms and suites — including newly reimagined accommodations in the main lodge and adjacent chalets — are havens of understated elegance. For a more private escape, the property’s standalone three-bedroom Chalet Zeno offers the ultimate hideaway, complete with its own spa area.

Epicurean experiences remain a star attraction. The hotel is home to St. Hubertus, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by Chef Norbert Niederkofler, famed for his “Cook the Mountain” philosophy that champions hyper-local, seasonal ingredients. Guests can also dine more casually at the Wine Bar & Grill or savour traditional Ladin dishes in the intimate Fondue Stube.

Wellness is equally central to the experience. The newly enhanced spa features a pool, hammam, and saunas, alongside Aman’s holistic treatments designed to soothe and revitalise after a day on the slopes or hiking trails.

With direct access to the UNESCO-listed Dolomites, the property offers year-round adventures, from skiing and snowshoeing in winter to mountain biking and alpine wildflower walks in summer. And after days spent in the crisp mountain air, evenings unfold in a world of candlelight, fine wine, and fireside relaxation.

By combining Rosa Alpina’s timeless soul with Aman’s meticulous eye for detail, Aman Rosa Alpina sets a new standard for European mountain escapes — one where authenticity and indulgence go hand in hand.

A New Luxury Link Between Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende

August 12, 2025

For the first time, two of Mexico’s most celebrated luxury hotels — JW Marriott Mexico City Polanco (above) and Hotel Matilda — are joining forces to create a seamless escape that moves effortlessly between the cosmopolitan pulse of the capital and the artistic allure of San Miguel de Allende.

Launching May 2025, the From Polanco to San Miguel package invites travellers to experience the country’s cultural spectrum without sacrificing style or comfort. In one trip, guests can savour Mexico City’s high-energy sophistication and San Miguel’s intimate, art-filled streets — all wrapped in the five-star service of two properties that are, until now, rarely mentioned in the same itinerary.

“Mexico City delivers cosmopolitan energy and style, while San Miguel de Allende offers a more intimate, artistic rhythm,” says Bruce James, General Manager of Hotel Matilda. “This package lets guests immerse themselves in both.”

The journey begins with two weekend nights at JW Marriott Mexico City Polanco, a freshly renovated 314-room address at the intersection of glamour and green space. Steps from the boutiques of Presidente Masaryk Avenue and across from Chapultepec Park, the hotel’s offerings include three new restaurants (Sendero, Corsi, and Archiebald), cocktail lounges ranging from sleek wine bar Estación 29 to a traditional mezcal tahona, a panoramic outdoor pool, and a spa devoted to vegan, organic treatments.

Hotel Matilda, San Miguel de Allende
Hotel Matilda, San Miguel de Allende

From there, a private luxury SUV whisks guests to San Miguel de Allende in under three and a half hours. Here, Hotel Matilda — a Design Hotels member and long-time cultural tastemaker — blends modern design with colonial architecture. Guests might dine at the acclaimed Moxi restaurant, sip cocktails at the intimate Monkey Bar, unwind in the serene garden spa, or wander hallways that double as contemporary art galleries.

In Mexico City, days can be filled with world-class museums such as Museo Jumex and the National Museum of Anthropology, or detours into bohemian Coyoacán for the Frida Kahlo Museum and bustling markets. In San Miguel, the cobblestoned streets lead to landmarks like the pink spires of the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, the Fábrica La Aurora art complex, and rooftop wine tastings with views over the city.

The package includes breakfast at both hotels, private transfer between cities, and cultural experiences curated by Hotel Matilda — and for Marriott Bonvoy members, the added perk of earning points.

“This trip is much more than a transfer between cities,” says Daniela González, Director of Sales and Marketing for JW Marriott Mexico City Polanco. “It is an opportunity to connect with the rich culture of Mexico while enjoying the luxury, comfort, and impeccable service that characterizes these great hospitality brands.”

With its blend of urban sparkle, artistic spirit, and door-to-door ease, this new collaboration offers a fresh way to see — and savour — Mexico’s diverse charms.

Colony Club Returns: A Fresh Chapter for a Barbados Classic

August 12, 2025

Along the platinum sands of Barbados’ celebrated west coast, one of the island’s most beloved resorts is preparing to welcome guests once more. On September 1, 2025, Colony Club — now part of Marriott Bonvoy’s The Luxury Collection — will reopen after a thoughtful renovation, blending its signature colonial charm with a modern sense of sophistication.

Long a favourite for travellers seeking understated elegance, the reimagined Colony Club offers an updated vision of Caribbean luxury. Guest rooms and suites have been redesigned with bespoke furnishings, ocean-hued palettes and a breezy, contemporary feel, while the resort’s tropical gardens, lagoon-style pools and beachfront setting remain as captivating as ever.

New culinary experiences celebrate the island’s vibrant flavours, with menus built around locally sourced ingredients and Caribbean traditions. A revitalised spa and wellness program brings beachfront yoga, holistic treatments and serene garden spaces for quiet reflection, while enhanced pool areas create an even more inviting backdrop for leisurely afternoons.

For those eager to explore beyond the resort, Colony Club offers easy access to Barbados’ most alluring experiences — from sailing and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters to curated cultural and epicurean excursions.

Whether returning or discovering it for the first time, guests will find the Colony Club more beautiful than ever — a place where timeless elegance meets the easy rhythm of island life. Reservations are now open for stays from September 1, 2025.

Rediscover yourself at Santani Wellness in Sri Lanka

August 12, 2025

Nestled in the hills of Kandy and named after the Sanskrit word meaning, “in harmony with”, Santani Wellness is more than a resort; it’s a destination.

With its unique brand of human sustainability and seamless flow between interior and exterior, the Sri Lankan resort invites guests to rebalance, whether it be with a glass of wine or a personalized Ayurvedic tea.

“Peace of mind is luxury because nowadays it’s rare; it’s the rarest thing you can find, and that’s what we’re giving guests at Santani,” says the resort’s founder, Vickum Nawagamuwage. That luxury is intrinsically linked to sustainability, from the architecture of silence and locally sourced foods to the daily excursions led by the naturalist on staff.

After falling asleep to the sound of crickets, guests wake up in their private chalet or pool villa where they can linger on the terrace, looking out at verdant green mountains in the distance.

Serenity is built into every design element, with lines that direct the eye outward towards the floor-to-ceiling windows, merging the exterior nature with interior calm. Luxury and sustainability are woven into every detail, including the handmade and organic soaps.

Whether on a leisure stay or wellness package, guests are invited to unburden themselves from the stresses of modern life. From the restaurant’s no phones policy to the spa’s list of traditional and modern treatments, Santani offers the opportunity to recover from information overload.

 Set on a former tea estate and with 116 acres of tropical jungle and rice fields, the resort has an infinity pool, yoga pavilion, spa, and elevated restaurant with premium dining and an excellent wine list. Guests can choose from morning and evening yoga or attend both group classes. There are also sessions in sound healing and meditation, and guests are invited on guided excursions, nature walks, and dips in the nearby river.

No thinking, just feeling

“Wellness is incorporated into the architecture itself. There’s no thinking, there’s just feeling,” says Nawagamuwage. “Anyone can have better amenities, but you can never replicate the feeling you have when you come here.”

Maybe anyone can have better amenities, but it’s unlikely. It’s also unlikely to find better hospitality. From the warm Sri Lankan welcome to the individualized attention, you can truly disconnect. Everything is taken care of.

Guests on a wellness package enjoy personalized Ayurvedic treatments—a holistic approach to medicine— beginning with a visit to one of Santani’s two licensed Ayurvedic doctors. During the consultation, guests discuss their history, goals, and discover their dosha, or Ayurvedic type.

At Santani, the treatment blends ancient wisdom and modern science, focusing on removing metabolic waste to increase longevity and vitality. Along with dietary and lifestyle plans, guests indulge in traditional spa treatments and herbal remedies. Because there’s also an educational component, the benefits last beyond the rich rice fields of Santani. It’s all about creating sustainable change, inside and out.

In a world of constant motion, Santani invites guests to pause, breathe in the sweet scents of tea leaves, and listen to the sound of silence.

This story first appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of OFFSHORE. Click here to subscribe to the digital magazine.

Elk Island Retreat glamping pod

Canada’s top-rated glamping resorts

July 29, 2025

With micro-cations on the rise, these luxe campsites prove you don’t need to go far to get away.

More Canadians are booking short, rejuvenating getaways close to home. According to a 2025 trends report, over 60% of Canadians say they plan to take a domestic trip this year, with many prioritizing two- to four-night escapes over longer vacations.

One big summer winner of this shift? Glamping. These upscale outdoor stays combine the immersive magic of nature with the comforts of a boutique hotel—think plush beds, private hot tubs, and well-designed shelters that take the hassle out of traditional camping. Whether you’re after forest bathing, coastal views or starry-night solitude, these Canadian glamping resorts should be on your radar.

Siwash Lake Star Camp 

Lake Thompson–Nicola, British Columbia

Star Camp, perched on a ridge above Siwash Lake, is an ultra‑private dark‑sky sanctuary with only three to four tents available at a time. Each “Star Gazer” tent has a skylight over the bed, wood-burning stove, and either a private outdoor shower cabin or access to shared luxury washrooms. Evenings are for soaking in your cedar hot tub, while stargazing guides host guests by the fire. You may even glimpse the Aurora Borealis from your bed—nature’s five-star entertainment.

Fronterra Farm 

Prince Edward County, Ontario

On a sprawling botanical farm in Prince Edward County, Fronterra blends Scandinavian minimalism with rustic elegance. Their luxury canvas tents feature king-size beds, hardwood floors, fire pits, private bathrooms with hot showers, and a summer kitchen with cookware and al fresco seating. Overnight guests can rent a canoe, swim at nearby North Beach Provincial Park (just 900 metres away), and soak up the full farmstead experience. Not staying the night? Day visitors are welcome to book a self-guided wellness ritual infused with botanicals grown onsite, or pick a colourful bouquet straight from the flower fields.

Clayoquot Wilderness Resort

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge 

Vancouver Island, BC

This high-end, fly-in-only retreat sits deep in the UNESCO-protected Clayoquot Sound. Its 25 upscale canvas tents line the shore of a tranquil inlet, each outfitted with heated floors, king beds, and cedar rain showers or soaking tubs. Days here include heli‑hiking, tidal‑zone wildlife tours, and evenings dining on wood‑grilled seafood paired with local vintages. The lodge’s design aesthetic blends handcrafted rustic furnishings with refined comfort for a true luxury wilderness escape.

Elk Island Retreat 

Fort Saskatchewan, AB

Just 45 minutes outside Edmonton, Elk Island Retreat is a peaceful, 60-acre woodland escape near Elk Island National Park. Its four geodesic domes are designed for two, each with a queen-size bed, plush linens, a gas fireplace, mini-fridge, and Nespresso setup. Outside, enjoy a private fire pit, picnic area, and access to the retreat’s newest addition: a stunning mirrored sauna imported straight from Estonia, which reflects the surrounding forest and offers a deeply tranquil experience. Add a deluxe charcuterie box and a bottle of wine (or sparkling juice) and you’ve got the perfect slow weekend in nature.

Dômes Charlevoix 

Petite-Rivière-Saint-François, QC

Modern design meets alpine views at this forest retreat near Le Massif. Sleek geodesic domes come with floor-to-ceiling windows, queen beds, kitchenettes, and private terraces with hot tubs overlooking the rolling Laurentians. From your perch above the St. Lawrence River, you’re minutes from ski trails, waterfalls, and one of Quebec’s most charming artistic towns: Baie-Saint-Paul. In the warmer months, hike through the surrounding forest trails or take the gondola up Le Massif for sweeping river views.

‘Ome 

Burlington, NL

On Newfoundland’s remote northwest coast, ’Ome blends wilderness and coastal charm with its handcrafted shoreline tents (plus a sleek wooden pod). Built from locally milled timber and dressed in home-sewn quilts, each tent is just steps from the sea. Spend your days paddleboarding in the bay, exploring nearby outport villages, or watching icebergs drift by (in season). Every stay at this eco resort supports the rural community.

Auberge Resorts just debuted its first Italian property, and it’s a Renaissance-era dream

July 28, 2025

Renaissance meets modern romance at Collegio alla Querce, the newest showstopper from Auberge Resorts Collection—and their very first in Italy. Perched in Florence’s north hills, this boutique property occupies a former convent and boarding school, with restored 16th-century frescoes, cloistered courtyards, and front-row views of the Duomo.

The 83-room retreat feels more like a private estate than a hotel. Expect old-world glamour and thoughtful indulgences: a vaulted spa, a wine program run by a master sommelier, and a serene cypress-lined garden perfect for post-museum aperitivo. Plus, there’s that pool.

There’s also a sense of cultural immersion baked into the experience—art and architecture tours can be arranged on request, and local chefs frequently collaborate with the kitchen team for intimate pop-up dinners. Even the rooms channel a sense of history, with curated antiques and views that feel like oil paintings.

Florence is always a good idea, but Collegio alla Querce makes it a great one. It’s intimate, cinematic, and full of soul—the kind of place where you unpack your bags and never want to leave. Andiamo.

Flight paths: where airlines are flying next

July 28, 2025

If you needed a sign to start planning your next trip, this is it. Several airlines have just dropped new direct routes to destinations that hit the sweet spot between off-the-radar and just-right. Whether you’re craving coastlines, culture, or something that feels like a total escape, these new flights make it easier (and sometimes more affordable) to get there.

New routes to watch:

There’s also a buzz around Air Greenland, now flying Nuuk to Copenhagen on a fresh A330—finally connecting the Arctic capital with Europe in comfort.

Whether you’re a planner or a last-minute packer, these fresh flight paths are worth watching. 

IV drips, cryotherapy and biomarker testing: Today’s wellness resorts go way beyond the spa

July 23, 2025

If your idea of a dream vacation includes IV drips, cryo chambers and gut microbiome analysis, you’re not alone. According to the latest ILTM Altiant travel survey, more than half of affluent travellers have already taken a wellness-focused trip, and 59 per cent are curious about how tech and AI can help improve their health. Booking.com’s 2025 travel predictions also show that 60 per cent of travellers are prioritizing health and well-being on their next escape.

Clearly, today’s travellers want more than just relaxation; they’re looking for transformative experiences that blend cutting-edge science with holistic well-being. From AI-driven sleep programs to genomic testing, the world’s leading wellness retreats are redefining what it means to rejuvenate.

From alpine cryotherapy to genomic profiling in the Mediterranean, today’s high-end health resorts aren’t just relaxing — they’re revolutionary. 

 

Six Senses (worldwide)

With properties spanning from the vineyards of Portugal to the white-sand beaches of the Maldives, Six Senses is a wellness leader that continues to evolve with the times.

“Healthspan is the new wellness buzzword,” says Anna Bjurstam, Six Senses’ Global Wellness Pioneer. “It’s not just about how long you live, but how well you live.”

One standout initiative is Sleep With Six Senses, a brand-wide program developed with renowned sleep doctor Michael J. Breus. It begins with a pre-arrival assessment of your sleep habits. Once on-site, sleep trackers help trained ambassadors customize your plan, which includes yoga nidra, meditation, a personalized pillow menu, and sleep-supportive nutrition.

“Sleep tourism began trending at the end of 2022 and is only accelerating,” Bjurstam notes. “A holiday offers the space for rest, but also the pace to address deeper sleep issues.” Sleep, she adds, now ranks as the second-highest wellness priority for travellers.

For those looking to go even further, select resorts have biohacking amenities like hyperbaric oxygen therapy, body compression, and vibroacoustic treatments designed to soothe the nervous system. 

Euphoria Retreat – Mystras, Greece

Tucked into the pine forests of the Peloponnese, this architecturally stunning sanctuary blends Hellenic philosophy with modern medicine and a side of soul work. 

“Our 360-degree Euphoria Methodos programs use cellular therapy and hyper-personalized diagnostics to address imbalances at their source,” says founder Marina Efraimoglou. “We begin with biomarker testing, followed by lifestyle interventions, and prevention strategies. Plus, we offer a two-month aftercare program to help guests maintain their transformation.”

Even before arrival, guests complete metabolic and bloodwork testing at home, enabling the team to design a fully tailored retreat. On site, you’ll be guided toward one of their signature pathways — from Advanced Longevity to Emotional Harmony or Immunity Reset. Treatments span watsu and sound healing to chakra balancing and bioenergetic therapies, and they’re all delivered in a soaring, domed spa that feels more sacred temple than hotel amenity.

For those wary of clinical vibes: “This is, and will always be, a white coat-free zone,” Efraimoglou promises.

Hotel Krallerhof – Leogang, Austria

This modernist alpine retreat, run by the same family for five generations, has become an institution. It unveiled a sprawling new glass-walled spa in 2023, complete with a 50-metre infinity pool that appears to spill into the surrounding mountain meadows.

Inside, it’s all clean lines and curated calm, but the real magic lies in the tech: cryotherapy chambers to reduce inflammation, hyperbaric oxygen therapy for cellular regeneration, and custom movement sessions to boost energy and mobility. The resort’s Longevity Lounge integrates red light therapy, IHHT (intermittent hypoxia-hyperoxia treatment), and micronutrient diagnostics.

But it’s the fusion of science and setting that sets Krallerhof apart. “Guests don’t just relax here, they recalibrate,” says owner Michaela Altenberger. “Here, wellness is not a rulebook. It’s an invitation to reconnect, rebalance, and rediscover what truly sustains you. Whether that means cold plunges at dawn, a walk through the forest, or simply doing nothing at all.”

Add in forest bathing trails and a hyper-seasonal, plant-forward menu, and you’ve got longevity programming wrapped in pure Austrian luxury.

SHA Wellness Clinic – Alicante, Spain & Riviera Maya, Mexico

What began on the sun-drenched shores of Alicante has grown into a global destination for next-gen wellness, with outposts in Mexico’s Riviera Maya and, coming in 2026, the UAE. Each multi-level, light-filled SHA property offers regenerative and genetic medical programs with more than 500 therapies, from NAD+ infusions to transcranial electrical stimulation (don’t worry, it’s just a gentle tingle).

“We see high-performing individuals, from entrepreneurs and creatives to athletes and executives, coming to SHA to extend their longevity, reduce stress, and optimize their performance,” says PR and Marketing Director Paulina Feltrin.

The experience is both results-driven and deeply holistic, led by a multidisciplinary team of clinical experts in more than 15 specialties, from brain health to women’s wellness and advanced diagnostics. It’s the kind of place for a full-body reset in between naps by the sleek infinity pools. 

This story first appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of OFFSHORE. Click here to subscribe to the digital magazine. 

Viking has added its very first river voyages through India

July 11, 2025

Viking has announced its first river voyages in India on the Viking Brahmaputra, a new 80-guest vessel designed specifically for the Brahmaputra River.

Currently under construction and scheduled to debut in late 2027, the Viking Brahmaputra will set a new standard for modern river voyages in India.

The ship will sail between Guwahati and Nimati Ghat in the northeastern state of Assam as part of Viking’s new 15-day itinerary, Wonders of India. In addition to an eight-day river voyage, the itinerary includes a fully-guided land program with overnights in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.

“With its rich heritage, deep cultural traditions and fascinating natural wonders, India is a vast and vibrant country that has captured the imagination of explorers for centuries,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “In recent years, our guests have particularly enjoyed visiting Indian ports on our ocean itineraries. We are now delighted to introduce a new way for curious travelers to explore the heart of this phenomenal country, in-depth and in Viking comfort.”

The Viking Brahmaputra

The new Viking Brahmaputra will host 80 guests in 40 outside staterooms. Featuring the signature Scandinavian design for which Viking is known, all staterooms and suites will have floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a veranda.

Guests on the three-deck Viking Brahmaputra will also enjoy a range of amenities, including a Spa & Fitness Center and an open-air Sky Bar on the Upper Deck.

Wonders of India 

The 15-day Wonders of India itinerary program will operate roundtrip from Delhi, with hotel stays in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur that bracket an eight-day Brahmaputra River voyage, sailing east or west, respectively. With 13 included tours, guests will be immersed in India’s cultural treasures and will have the opportunity to experience as many as 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Guests will delve into the rich history of India’s Golden Triangle, exploring Agra’s fabled Taj Mahal, strolling through Old Delhi’s winding streets and glimpsing Jaipur’s ornate Palace of Winds. While sailing the Brahmaputra River, guests will see Guwahati’s temple, encounter the thriving villages along its banks, search for the one-horned rhinos and buffalos of Kaziranga National Park and discover the cultures of Majuli, one of the world’s largest river islands.

For additional immersion opportunities, Viking is also offering a variety of new pre and post land extensions for Wonders of India, including Delhi (two nights), Dubai (three nights; fully guided), Kathmandu (four nights; fully guided) and Cochin & Mumbai (five nights; fully guided).

Booking details

From now through July 31, 2025, Viking is offering North American travelers savings of up to $5,000 per couple plus airfare from $999, with a $25 deposit, on Wonders of India.

Call Viking toll free at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or contact a travel advisor for booking details.

Air Canada just resumed non-stop service to Lima, Peru

July 9, 2025

Air Canada is further expanding its winter 2025-26 network by resuming non-stop service to Lima, Peru with twice weekly flights from both Montreal and Toronto.

The airline is also adding three new routes to Central America and Mexico including, Montreal-Belize, Toronto-Puerto Escondido*, and Vancouver-Tepic, Riviera Nayarit*, building on its recent Latin America expansion announcement. 

Flights are now available for sale at aircanada.com, through Air Canada Contact Centres, and via travel agents.

“Air Canada is further diversifying its global network this winter under its New Frontiers Strategy by capitalizing on strong leisure demand to sought-after vacation destinations in South and Central America and in Mexico’s Oaxaca and Pacific coast areas. Our new flights are designed to provide easy connections for both Canadian and European travellers, as well as to take advantage of cargo opportunities in the region,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, and President, Cargo at Air Canada. “Customers will have even more compelling choices when planning vacation travel this winter. From Peru’s rich history and archaeological ruins, the legendary Belize Barrier Reef, or Mexico’s vibrant and rapidly emerging hidden gem vacation spots, Air Canada is proud to bring new and exciting destinations for our customers to explore. We look forward to welcoming you onboard our award-winning airline soon.”

Flights to Peru

FlightFromToDepartArriveDays of OperationSeason
AC 88Montreal (YUL)Lima (LIM)18:0002:15 (+1 day)Wed, SatDec. 6, 2025 – Mar. 25, 2026
AC 89Lima (LIM)Montreal (YUL)08:0016:20Wed, SatDec. 6, 2025 – Mar. 28, 2026
AC 86Toronto (YYZ)Lima (LIM)22:1006:10 (+1 day)Tue, FriDec. 5, 2025 – Mar. 27, 2026
AC 87Lima (LIM)Toronto (YYZ)08:0015:55Thu, SunDec. 7, 2025 – Mar. 26, 2026