Destinations Archives

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/

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.

This small ship cruise company takes just 200 guests to the remote Arctic

July 29, 2024 No Comments

Atlas Ocean Voyages‘ 2026 Arctic season will feature six and seven-night expeditions and include pre-cruise hotel stays for the first time.

Onboard World Voyager and World Navigator, the season will also discover new ports exploring the remote Skjoldungen Island in Greenland, the heart of Icelandic culture in Stykkishólmur, and “miniature Norway” from Senja, the island of adventure.

Reaching restricted areas for larger ships from Svalbard, Atlas’ small intimate yachts provide fewer than 200 guests with the opportunity to explore the remote region. All expeditions departing from Longyearbyen and Kangerluusuaq include the pre-cruise hotel.

Arctic season highlights

Shorter Svalbard expeditions

Guests embark on a seven-night expedition from Tromsø to Longyearbyen featuring ports along the stunning Norwegian coast, including Hammerfest and Skarsvåg (North Cape), Norway, before culminating in the breathtaking landscapes of Svalbard departing May 22, 2026, A six or seven -night expedition Longyearbyen roundtrip is available for departures May 29, June 5 and June 11, 2026.

Iceland and Greenland

Expeditions will continue visiting Greenland in 2026, a favourite offering allowing travellers to explore Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland in one extraordinary journey. Whether it’s the towering icebergs, vibrant coastal villages, or the mesmerizing Northern Lights, each day promises a new and awe-inspiring experience. Choose from expeditions of 10 to 15 nights for an unforgettable experience: July 29, July 31, Aug 11 (solar eclipse) Aug 15, Aug 20 Aug 30, August 31 and Sept 10, 2026.

Norway

Two departures featuring the Norwegian fjords and Svalbard depart June 18, and July 19, 2026.

Included private jet service from Oslo or New York JFK

On expeditions embarking or concluding in Longyearbyen or Kangerlussuaq, guests will enjoy an inclusive charter flight inclusion. Expeditions departing or ending in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, include charter air flights from Oslo, Norway to Longyearbyen, making it easier for guests to begin or end their expedition. Expeditions departing or ending in Kangerlusssuaq will include charter air flights from New York JFK.

New included pre-cruise hotel in Oslo or New York

For 2026 Arctic polar expeditions, a complimentary pre-cruise hotel night is included for all departures from Longyearbyen, with accommodations provided in Oslo, Norway, the night before the charter flight. Additionally, for the Aug. 31, 2026 departure from Kangerlussuaq, a pre-cruise hotel night will be offered in New York the night before the charter flight.

Exclusive cultural immersions

Every 2026 Polar Expedition by Atlas includes a free cultural immersion experience, offering guests unique insights into local communities. Examples include visits to Indigenous villages like Ittoqqortoormiit, Paimutt, or Ilulisat in Greenland, where guests can engage with local traditions, taste regional treats, and explore cultural nuances. In Longyearbyen, guests will enjoy a panoramic drive and a welcome aboard event featuring an insightful talk on local life, complemented by delicacies such as reindeer canapés, coal mine beer, and regional chocolate.

Adventure activities include free Zodiac sightseeing safaris, allowing for up-close-and-personal experiences with stunning landscapes and wildlife. Plus, landings ashore, where our world-class expedition team guides you, and for the daring, take the plunge with our exhilarating polar plunge opportunity, creating memories that last a lifetime. Each guest also receives a complimentary parka to take home with them.

For more information, visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.

New report highlights the changing face of luxury travel in Asia Pacific

July 19, 2024 No Comments

As the Asia Pacific region continues to be the growth engine for luxury travel, a new comprehensive report from the Luxury Group by Marriott International has identified new expectations and travel preferences among high-net-worth (HNW) travellers in Asia Pacific.

Across the region, 68 per cent are planning to spend more on travel over the next 12 months – 89 per cent among Indians – with 74 per cent planning to travel within Asia Pacific and 88 per cent prioritizing gastronomy as the reason to travel. One in four of all holidays planned (25 per cent) are celebrations.

Three distinct new groups of luxury traveler have emerged – the ‘Venture Travelist’ who seeks business opportunities when traveling, ‘Experience Connoisseur’ Millennials who are traveling for enrichment and ‘Timeless Adventurer’, over 65s who are building their own itineraries and exploring places before they become popular.

Longer holidays on the rise

The research among HNW travelers in Australia, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia and India reveals they are traveling frequently with longer holidays especially across the Asia Pacific region. An average of six leisure trips is planned within the next 12 months while 33% of respondents are planning at least seven holidays this year. On average, a short stay comprises three nights while a long stay is two-and-a-half weeks. For many, the kinship and connection within a group enhances the richness of the travel experience, with over 70% choosing to travel with family or friends.

Australia is the destination of choice (46 per cent, above Japan (42 per cent) and Hong Kong, China (27 per cent). Sixty-nine per cent of India’s HNW tourists are planning a trip to Australia and it is the top destination of choice for Indonesian, Japanese and Singaporean travellers.

Travel trends revealed

Increasing demand in India

The most active and engaged travel market, 89 per cent of Indian HNW say they are planning to spend more on travel.

Families and friends are touring together to mark key milestones, attend a private function or event, with 38 per cent planning a trip with friends and 33 per cent making theirs a celebratory trip.

A Fascination for Food

A whopping 88 per cent are picking their holiday destination based on discovering a new food or culinary experience. Acutely aware of dining trends, almost half of the respondents (49 per cent) describe a fine dining experience as an ideal night out.

Reinforcing this point, 83 per cent will choose a destination to visit an award-winning restaurant and 35 per cent agreed they would spend more on unique culinary experiences. When choosing a hotel, 81 per cent of HNW travellers make their selection based on fine dining options and 83 per cent choose a destination so they can visit a celebrated restaurant.

New traveller personas emerge

With more disposable income for holidays and a growing population of ageing travellers, the research has identified three new categories of affluent travellers. These include:

i) The ‘Venture Travelist’
The next-generation Bleisure tourist, the Venture Travelist prioritizes holiday destinations that will generate business opportunities. While they enjoy their vacation with their family and loved ones, they are always on the lookout to secure a deal. Entrepreneurs at heart, they explore a location, shopping for local products and antiques, and looking to forge business connections with members from the local community.

ii) The ‘Experience Connoisseur’
Predominantly millennials, Experience Connoisseurs plan their leisure travel as an opportunity for personal enrichment. They travel extensively and see the experience as an investment in their mental and physical wellbeing. They want to deeply explore a destination, they value personalization and actively seek exclusive one-of-a-kind experiences.

iii) The ‘Timeless Adventurer’
Debunking every stereotype of the over-65 ‘silver set travelers’, Timeless Adventurers are keen explorers who want to immerse themselves in a destination. They’re less interested in tourist attractions and more drawn to what gives the destination a sense of place, what makes it unique and memorable.

The full report is available to download.

How to make the most of a 24-hour stopover in Lisbon

July 17, 2024 No Comments

Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is perfect for a 24-hour stopover with TAP Air Portugal.

With its historic sites and delectable cuisine, there are so many possibilities to make the most of your short stay.

For those with only a short time to explore Portugal’s charming capital, here’s a guide to enjoying your day in Lisbon.

Start at Praça do Comércio, a grand square by the Tagus River. From here, walk to the Baixa district, a bustling area rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. Stroll along Rua Augusta, a lively pedestrian street with shops and cafes, and soak in the atmosphere.

Next, visit Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. Its narrow, winding streets and colourful houses are full of charm and history. Explore the Lisbon Cathedral and climb to Miradouro de Santa Luzia for a stunning view of the city and river.

Foodie frenzy

Don’t miss the iconic Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts). Head to Pastéis de Belém, a legendary bakery known for these treats since 1837. Enjoy the crispy, flaky pastry filled with rich, creamy custard, paired with a strong Portuguese espresso, known as bica.

Lisbon is renowned for its culinary delights. A food tour with Devour Tours – Lisbon is a great way to taste local dishes. Start at Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market) for fresh seafood, petiscos (Portuguese tapas), and regional wines. These tours often include stops at small eateries to try specialties like bacalhau à brás (shredded cod with potatoes and eggs) and pastéis de bacalhau (codfish cakes).

History hides at every corner

For a touch of history and opulence, visit the Royal Treasure Museum at Palácio Nacional da Ajuda. It features a stunning collection of royal jewels, gold artifacts, and regal memorabilia. Learn about Portugal’s monarchy and admire the intricate craftsmanship of the items on display.

Continue your tour with visits to Lisbon’s iconic landmarks. The Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site, once protected the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor. Its distinctive Manueline architecture is a testament to Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Nearby, the Jerónimos Monastery, another UNESCO site, showcases magnificent Manueline style and houses Vasco da Gama’s tomb. Another option for the non-heights conscious explorer is the Pillar 7 Bridge Experience located on Lisbon waterfront, is a unique attraction that allows visitors to explore the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge from an entirely new perspective.

If you have time, visit Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s lively nightlife district. It comes alive after dark with narrow streets lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants. Enjoy a traditional Fado performance, a soulful genre of music unique to Portugal, and try a ginjinha (cherry liqueur).

Before heading back to the airport, relax at one of Lisbon’s stunning viewpoints. The Miradouro da Senhora do Monte offers one of the best panoramic views of the city, especially at sunset. Alternatively, take a ride on the historic Tram 28 through charming neighborhoods like Graça, Alfama, and Estrela.

We stayed at the Dom Pedro Hotel. This property exudes old world charm and as a participant in the stopover program you can receive 20% by using code STOPOVER23 when booking on the hotel website.

Lisbon’s unique blend of historic charm, modern vibrancy, and culinary excellence makes it an ideal stopover destination. With just 24 hours, you can see and do many rewarding things. So, when flying with TAP, take advantage and book a stopover in Lisbon.

A look inside the luxury rail car that connects South Central Vietnam

July 15, 2024 No Comments

The Vietage by Anantara recently added a second railway carriage, which will operate a daily return journey between Nha Trang and Quy Nhon.

Building on the resounding success of the existing carriage, which runs every day between Da Nang and Quy Nhon, the new custom-designed addition will connect the renowned coastal city of Nha Trang (served by Cam Ranh International Airport), offering timeless luxury travel experiences through South-Central Vietnam.

Heralding a new age of slow and sustainable travel, the five-hour journeys meander through the picturesque Vietnamese countryside, transporting guests into a world of glamour and nostalgia with all the comforts of modern luxury. Twelve reservation-only seats in private booths of two blend sleek modern interiors with inspiration from Indochina, along with expansive picture windows offering stunning views. A sit-up bar gives guests the chance to watch expert mixology in action as the on-board hosts create railway-inspired cocktails and mocktails, while relaxation time beckons in the dedicated spa area for 15-minute head and shoulder treatments on the go.

An exclusively curated and sumptuous afternoon tea experience takes guests on a culinary adventure, including poached Bai Dai Lobster and Da Lat Caviar to whet the appetite, a tea tower with a selection of home-made finger sandwiches, pastries, cakes and traditional scones with all the trimmings. An artisanal cheese and charcuterie platter rounds off the occasion. A dedicated vegan menu is also available.

Slow down for the scenery

While not visible from the railway itself, the train passes near Vietnam’s oldest lighthouse, Mui Dien, which sits at the easternmost point of the country making it the first place to witness the sunrise. Continuing its northerly track through the province’s capital city of Tuy Hòa, Vietnam’s longest wooden bridge at half a mile in length, Bình Thạnh Bridge, is a gateway to some other local notable landmarks.

Guests traveling from Nha Trang to Quy Nhon can enjoy accommodations at the luxurious Anantara Quy Nhon Villas beachside retreat. For the ultimate Vietnam itinerary, jump on board The Vietage by Anantara running from Quy Nhon to Da Nang and to visit the charming Hoi An Ancient Town with a stay at Anantara Hoi An Resort.

A one-way ticket aboard The Vietage by Anantara between Nha Trang and Quy Nhon costs US $420 per person, including luxury afternoon tea, a 15-minute head and shoulder treatment, free-flowing wines, cocktails, beers, mocktails, soft drinks and a selection of local tea and coffee.

The Vietage by Anantara departs from Nha Trang every afternoon arriving at Dieu Tri station in. It then continues up to Da Nang arriving after midnight. Running in the opposite direction, The Vietage by Anantara’s additional carriage departs from Da Nang every morning, arriving at Dieu Tri station in Quy Nhon in the early afternoon and then onto Nha Trang for a mid-evening arrival.

Two new Hyatt hotels are opening in New Orleans

July 12, 2024 No Comments

Hyatt is expanding its brand presence in New Orleans with Maison Métier (formerly Maison de la Luz) and The Barnett (formerly Ace Hotel New Orleans), which have joined the Hyatt portfolio as affiliated hotels.

The hotels are expected to join Hyatt’s Independent Collection of brands and participate in the World of Hyatt loyalty program this year. The two properties are owned by The Domain Companies and managed by HRI Hospitality.

Situated on Carondelet Street, just one block from New Orleans’ famed Lafayette Square, these two properties will soon bring unique guest experiences, stylish accommodations and bold food and beverage programming to Hyatt’s Independent Collection of brands, which offers enriching and authentic stays for today’s traveller.

About the two hotels

Maison Métier (expected to join The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand as an independently branded hotel in 2024)
Located in a 1908 building, Maison Métier is a Parisian luxury guesthouse that has been thoughtfully preserved in its architectural integrity and embodies the story of a bygone era married with contemporary finishes and furnishings.

The hotel offers 67 lavish guestrooms and suites with well-appointed interiors and immersive design touches. The salon-style bar located within the hotel, formerly known as Bar Marilou, maintains its partnership with Paris-based Quixotic Projects and continue to hold its place as the swanky bar New Orleanians know and love, offering culinary delights and creative cocktails.

The Barnett (expected to join JdV by Hyatt brand as an independently branded hotel in 2024)
The Barnett will pay homage to the building’s rich history which includes its longstanding tenure as Barnett’s Furniture Store, a local mom-and-pop fixture of the neighborhood of a past era.

The hotel brings Art Deco and French Modernism influences to the vibrant Warehouse District in a way that celebrates the city’s past, and offers guests an authentic New Orleans experience, with musicality at its core featuring a live music venue. In addition to thoughtful property-wide updates, the hotel’s culinary venues will showcase new identities, including former mainstay Italian restaurant Josephine Estelle; rooftop and pool bar Alto; and music venue Three Keys. Seaworthy restaurant will remain under the same brand and culinary leadership. Guests can expect updates for The Barnett’s bars and restaurants to be unveiled this Fall.

Once the hotels join their respective brands, World of Hyatt members will have the opportunity to experience NOLA in style and earn points on stays to use toward free nights, dining, wellbeing experiences and more.

One&Only Kéa Island, Greece is now welcoming guests

July 10, 2024 No Comments

One&Only opens their second Greek resort, One&Only Kéa Island, bringing the wonders of the Aegean to life.

Set on an untapped island, just a 45-minute speedboat ride from Athens, the resort celebrates authentic Mediterranean living, surrounded by untouched landscapes, deep blue seas, secluded beaches, and charming villages. The launch of One&Only Kéa Island follows the successful 2023 opening of One&Only Aesthesis, Athens, the brand’s debut resort in Greece.

Unlocking the destination, One&Only Kéa Island Resort and Private Homes is set on a dramatic 65-hectare beachfront site on the ruggedly beautiful west coast of Kéa in the Cyclades.

The first ultra-luxury offering on the island, this all-villa resort boasts contemporary cliffside villas, each with its own private infinity pool overlooking panoramic sea views. Immersing guests in the natural rhythms of the island, the resort offers elevated Greek cuisine, holistic wellbeing, and curated experiences that celebrate the natural, nautical, and cultural charms of the Cyclades.

Aegean wonder

Designed by acclaimed architect John Heah, the resort’s 63 villas and collection of private homes pay homage to Kéa’s architectural traditions. Hand-cut local stone and Greek marble feature prominently in the designs, complementing other Cycladic elements such as lofty atriums, white-washed walls, pergolas, and rounded archways.

Perched on a stunning cliffside, the resort’s main arrival building and cluster of villas create a village-style atmosphere, whilst maintaining a sense of space and privacy. With a choice of one or two bedrooms, the villas capture the quintessential island spirit with expansive indoor-outdoor living spaces, designed for alfresco living. The first free-hold branded residences in Greece, a limited collection of private homes are available to purchase. Located on the opposite side of Vroskopos Bay, they range from one-bedroom to six-bedroom villas with infinity-edge pools, spacious entertaining areas, native gardens, and sweeping sea views.

Island bounty abounds

One&Only Kéa Island celebrates the island’s culinary secrets showcasing produce from the land and sea, working with local skilled artisans, farmers and fishermen. The resort’s restaurants and bars showcase the island’s seasonal natural bounty and traditions, allowing guests to immerse themselves in an authentic Mediterranean diet.

Located at the heart of the resort, Atria, the resort’s lively restaurant, serves refined Greek cuisine and family-style dishes featuring fresh catch of the day, locally farmed meats, homegrown herbs and produce. Shifting moods throughout the day, Kosmos lounge offers everything from freshly pressed juices and afternoon tea to cocktails on the sea-view terrace as the sun goes down.

Sailing in the most picturesque views, the Kaiki pool bar, is the perfect spot to enjoy relaxed bites and creative cocktails by the resort’s impressive infinity pool with awe-inspiring views of the Aegean Sea beyond. Meanwhile, Èpicora wine bar, celebrates a more intimate experience with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie boards paired with Greek and international wines. Keeping some secrets of its own, Incognito speakeasy bar is hidden behind an unmarked door, boasting a selection of rare rums, fine whiskies, and Cuban-inspired cocktails in an intimate setting for just 20 guests.

Whether it’s basking in the sunlight or dancing by the sea, Bond Beach Club is the Cyclades’ most alluring new destination and is set to become one of the most captivating beach clubs in the region.

Embracing barefoot luxury, Bond Beach Club captures the spirited yet laidback energy synonymous with Greek summer. A place where guests can spend long lost afternoons with their toes in the sand, enjoying bold Mediterranean and Asian flavours, masterful mixology and curated wines coupled with vibrant tunes from the resident DJs.

For those looking to stop by for lunch or dinner, there is a jetty from which you can access the beach from your boat.

For reservations or more information, visit: oneandonlyresorts.com/kea-island.

London calling: A night at Westminster’s five-star boutique hotel, The Londoner

July 8, 2024 No Comments

It’s not usually the loo that’s the first thing that catches my attention when entering a hotel room, but this one quite literally took me by surprise.

Before slipping into the plush robe and slippers that I hoped were waiting for me in the closet, I grabbed my phone to capture a video of my spacious quarters at The Londoner to share on Instagram — as one does to be the envy of those stuck at work back home — while the bed was still in pristine condition. As I stepped backwards to get a better angle of the soaking tub, my movement triggered the sensor-activated toilet lid behind me. I turned my gaze and was impressed to find that this wasn’t an average run-of-the-mills toilet but a premium self cleaning Japanese Toto Washlet with a heated seat. What luxury!

From a secret whisky room to a spa that’s four levels below Leicester Square, there’s even more to The Londoner than meets the eye.

For peat's sake

Home to 350 hotel rooms and suites, The Londoner offers a mix of bars and restaurants that are open to the public, as well as spaces that are exclusive for hotel guests only. As a scotch aficionado — the peatier the better in my books — I was immediately drawn to The Whisky Room.

“Hidden behind a secret door in our guest-only residence is The Whisky Room, which is a velvet-lined parlour boasting some of the rarest and most exclusive whiskies you can find in London,” explains Patrick Katzenberg, the hotel’s general manager. “Our collection includes over 50 bottles spanning the world, dating back to pre-prohibition America (1903), from distilleries that closed many years ago, and from batches of less than a thousand ever made. Some of our favourites are the Karuizawa 42-Year-Old and the Glenfiddich Time Re:Imagined Series.”

Once you locate the secret entrance through the powder room, you can even stash a private bottle that’s kept in a secure spot until your next visit. Looking for something special? The Londoner is the only hotel in the world to house Glenfiddich’s Time Re:Imagined collection featuring three luxury single malts developed over 30, 40 and 50 years.

Deep relaxation starts here

Towering over London with views of Big Ben and the London Eye, The Londoner rises up eight floors from Leicester Square. But what’s not visible from the exterior is that it also transcends six floors down. It’s here, four levels below the bustling streets, where you find the hotel’s serene pool and spa area.

“The Retreat is one of our most beautiful spaces, which is an entire floor dedicated to wellness experiences,” says Katzenberg. “We have an aquamarine pool and hydropool surrounded by private cabanas, a sauna, steam room, hair salon and gentlemen’s grooming parlour.” Services include deep tissue and relaxation massages as well as a CBD hibernation massage.

“For spa treatments, we work with luxury, sustainable brands to provide intensely rejuvenating experiences, from a gold hydralifting facial to a pre-natal massage,” he says. “The Retreat is also home to a stunning fully-equipped gym, yoga studio and Refuel bar, with serves delicious superfoods and smoothies perfect for a post-workout boost.”

The epitome of luxury

Conceived as a “super boutique hotel,” The Londoner is known for its lavish rooms and suites, but the crème de la crème is the luxurious Tower Penthouse, a two-storey suite complete with a Calcutta Tucci marble bar and unforgettable views of the skyline.

“It epitomizes luxury living in the heart of London. What sets The Tower Penthouse apart is the little additions that make a stay truly memorable,” he adds. “These include a complimentary beverage trolley tailored to our guests’ preferences, as well as a visit from our mixologist to create any concoctions you may desire. In addition, a Fortnum & Mason luxury hamper, Olivia von Halle pyjamas, curated itinerary of unique cultural experiences and much more await in this spectacular suite.”

This story first appeared in the Summer 2024 issue of OFFSHORE. To subscribe to the magazine, click here.

Coastal Peruvian resort 3 hours from Lima opens under Hyatt brand

July 5, 2024 No Comments

Hyatt Hotels Corporation and El Pardo Hospitality have announced the debut of The Legend Paracas Resort, joining the Destination by Hyatt brand. The 124-suite resort invites guests and World of Hyatt members to discover the natural wonders and historical legacy of Paracas, located on the coast of Peru, about three hours south of Lima.

The resort is nestled between the Paracas Nature Reserve and the Pacific Ocean, offering panoramic views of the Paracas Bay and desert hills, designed to be a place of immersive discovery, authentic design and warm, welcoming service.

The opening unveils a fully renovated reception desk and lobby, along with a number of enhancements designed to enrich the guest experience. The resort now offers a covered parking garage with two EV (electric vehicle) chargers and a redesigned restaurant and bar inspired by the Paracas culture that evokes the connection between the desert and the sea.

Guestrooms with a view

The Legend Paracas Resort is comprised of 124 two-room suites, each equipped with private balconies or terraces that unveil stunning ocean, garden or pool views and deliver an experience that ensure guests feel right at home.

The guestroom design reflects the natural beauty of the Paracas National Reserve, drawing inspiration from the natural wonders and historical legacy of the region, using wood and natural fabrics. Each suite includes a communal living room with a sofa bed, TV and desk, a kitchenette with a microwave, coffee maker, tea kettle and minibar, and guestroom have a terrace on the first floor or balcony on the second.

Also worth noting is the property’s spa, which offers a variety of special services such as body massages, milk baths, scrubs, body wraps and whirlpools. Other amenities include a well-equipped fitness centre and a pool overlooking the ocean.

For more information on the Legend Paracas, click here.