Tauck is launching two new river boats in France for 2026

October 25, 2024 No Comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information, visit www.tauck.ca.

Six Senses is opening properties in Lake Como and Milan

October 21, 2024 No Comments

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

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

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

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

Six Senses Milan

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

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

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

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

Six Senses Lake Como

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

October 11, 2024 No Comments

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

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

 

France—Canal du Midi

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

Italy—The Venetian Canals

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

France—The Camargue

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

England—The Thames

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

Scotland— The Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness

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

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

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/

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.

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. 

Marriott’s Luxury Collection makes its grand debut in Munich

June 17, 2024 No Comments

The Luxury Collection, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, recently opened the Koenigshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Munich.

Situated in the heart of Munich’s historical “Stachus” Square, this property marks The Luxury Collection brand’s debut in Germany.

Designed by internationally acclaimed architects Nieto Sobejano, the hotel captures the timeless sophistication and attitude of Munich with a new, contemporary design, which beautifully embodies the city’s rich stories and culture, offering unique, transformative experiences in the Bavarian capital.

Embracing the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture, Koenigshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Munich offers an unparalleled blend of luxury hospitality and local authenticity

A luxurious transformation

At the helm of the transformation, Nieto Sobejano Architects and Landau + Kindelbacher ensured that this next chapter of the historic building’s heritage is honoured, while reinterpreting the sense of luxury in a modern way. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into a breathtaking, spacious atrium introducing the hotel’s design concept of “Stachus Serenity”, reflecting individuality and local connectivity.  

Through the implementation of louvered structures and large, gold-colored walls, the architectural approach was to open the facade towards the “Stachus” square and establish a connection between the interior and exterior of the hotel, creating a luxury urban retreat.

Inside the hotel, art plays a key role as part of the guest experience – reflecting the history of the House of Wittelsbach, the former Bavarian ruling family, who were enthusiastic art collectors in the 16th century. The aim of the Koenigshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Munich is to seamlessly blend Bavaria’s rich tradition of art collecting with the city’s current passion for fine art.

The art on display in the hotel represents national and internationally renowned artists such as Joseph Beuys, Christo und Jeanne-Claude, and David John Flynn among many others, complementing the hotel’s architecture and interior design.

About the Koenigshof

The hotel features 106 artfully appointed guest rooms and suites, showcasing modern luxury with a sophisticated blend of spectacular interiors, curated artworks from local Bavarian artists, and state-of-the-art technology. 

Koenigshof’s crowning jewel is the 250-square-metre split-level Presidential Suite on the eighth and ninth floor offering an ultimate luxury experience. As the largest hotel suite in the city, it boasts a private sauna and a pool with breathtaking city views. The pool features a counter-current system and seating surfaces with massage jets.

A private spa offers high-quality spa products, a relaxation area and lounge with a Smart TV, and a curated room service menu for complete relaxation.

Guaranteeing an epicurean delight, Koenigshof is home of three distinctive destinations including signature restaurant GRETA OTO Munich, located on the ninth floor offering panoramic views of the city. This vibrant Latin American restaurant, under the helm of renowned Peruvian chef Michael Cánepa, is set to be the city’s newest social hotspot, with an innovative menu that will engage the senses.

 

An exquisite experience

On the weekend, the restaurant and bar transition into a club-like atmosphere where guests can enjoy exceptional Amazonian cocktails in the adjacent bar or on the rooftop terrace. In contrast, The Green is a serene lounge serving local delicacies including the specially crafted Koenigshof tea and the extravagant “Koenigshof-Torte”, a tribute to the world-famous Bavarian “Prinzregententorte” with a unique design mirroring the hotel’s architectural exterior.

The Gold lounge will provide a tranquil, residential-style space on the third floor to unwind with a curated selection of books and artwork that showcase Munich’s unique personality as one of the most historic cultural locations in Europe.

Complete with an outdoor terrace and breathtaking views of the city and the Bavarian Alps, from here guests can savor the special edition Koenigshof Bellini made with mountain peach puree, lemon oil produced from Amalfi Coast lemons, and topped up with Ruinart Brut Champagne.

For private events, The View on the ninth floor accommodates up to 50 guests, featuring a private bar, lounge, and terrace access with stunning city and mountain views. Equipped with the latest AV technology, the space is complemented by culinary offerings from GRETA OTO. Intimate gatherings with up to 12 guests can take advantage of The Studio on the third floor and enjoy the moment with a private bar.

Koenigshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Munich offers global explorers a unique and authentic experience of the city through locally inspired design, epicurean moments, and opportunities to discover the destination. Signature guest experiences will include guided tours of the city to discover Munich’s Gemuetlichkeit, a state of warmth, friendliness, and good cheer. Accompanied by the concierge, guests can visit the famous Viktualienmarkt. Originally a farmers’ market, today it is a place where gourmands can sample traditional Bavarian products and exclusive local foods, as well as take home stories and insider tips from the concierge. 

For more information or to book a stay, visit www.marriott.com.

The Canadian government just issued terror warnings for 9 European countries

June 12, 2024 No Comments

As the summer travel season in Europe heats up, the Government of Canada has issued a series of travel advisories for select countries in Europe, due to potential acts of terrorism.

The threat of terrorism in Europe remains ongoing, and attacks can happen anywhere at any time, though government buildings, including schools, places of worship, airports, and other major tourist attractions like shopping malls, restaurants or public squares can be more likely targets.

Canadian travellers to Europe this summer are urged to exercise a high degree of caution in the following countries:

Belgium

As of June 4, travellers to Belgium are urged to exercise a high degree of caution due to ongoing threats of terrorism. While petty crime (purse snatchings, pick-pocketing, etc.) remains quite common in tourist areas, there has been an increase in violence, including stabbings and shootings, linked to the drug trade in Brussels and other major cities.

In February 2024, reported shootings have occurred in the commune of Brussels, in the Marolles neighbourhood, and around the following locations in the commune Saint-Gilles: Port-de-Hal, Gare du Midi, and Place Jacques Franck.

The Government of Canada reports that in Belgium, separate attacks causing multiple deaths and injuries have taken place, and that further attacks in Belgium cannot be ruled out. The Government of Belgium maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media and social media.

If you plan to travel to Belgium during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to Belgium, click here.

Denmark

Denmark has been experiencing a heightened threat of terrorism since the beginning of August 2023, after multiple incidents of public desecration of the Qur’an in Denmark. Since then, extremists have called for retaliation against the country.

The Danish Security and Intelligence Service currently assesses the threat of a terrorist attack at level 4 (significant) on a 5-step scale.

Organized crime, including drug trade and gang violence has also been recently reported in the area of Freetown Christiania in Copenhagen. Christiana is a commune in the Christianshavn neighbourhood of Copenhagen that is known to openly sell cannabis, which remains illegal in Denmark. Photography is strictly prohibited, and tourists have been victim to assaults and robbery for failing to respect the rule.

If you plan to travel to Denmark during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to Denmark, click here.

France

As of June 11, travellers to France are urged to exercise a high degree of caution, especially with the Olympic Games taking place in Paris from July 26 to Aug. 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8, 2024.

Public events will take place across France starting on May 8 and will continue until the opening ceremony. During the Olympic Games, France will have an increased presence of security forces and large crowds and public gatherings should be expected. Major disruptions to traffic and the flow of movement should also be expected.

If you plan to travel to France during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to France, click here.

Germany

The Canadian government increased Germany’s security risk as of June 4, citing concerns around the UEFA EURO 2024 soccer tournament, which takes place from June 14 to July 14, 2024. Games will take place in 10 cities across the country.

Crime, such as theft, typically increases around major sporting events. Thieves often target tourists. Post-game celebrations and confrontations between opposing fans may lead to rowdy behaviour.

The Government of Germany maintains a public alert system on terrorism. Alert level changes are communicated through local media. Violent crime is quite uncommon in Germany, but crimes committed by far-right extremists against individuals belonging to ethnic, religious or political minorities due occur, and tourists are advised to take caution.

If you plan to travel to Germany during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to Germany, click here.

Italy

As of June 4, the Government of Canada is advising Canadians to take extra security measures when visiting Italy, due to terror-related threats. As one of the most popular summer travel destinations for Canadians, large numbers are expected this season.

The Government of Italy maintains a public alert system on terrorism. Alert level changes are communicated mainly through local media. Enhanced security measures are also deployed in various strategic locations and transport hubs.

Travellers to Italy should expect an increased presence of police and military forces during holidays and in public places, including tourist locations and major landmarks. Upcoming public holidays in Italy include Ferragosto, which takes place on Aug. 15 and is observed across Italy.

If you plan to travel to Italy during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to Italy, click here.

The Netherlands

The Government of Canada increased its risk level for travel to the Netherlands over ongoing threats of terrorism in the country.

The Dutch government maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media. The current threat level for the Netherlands is level 4 (“substantial”) on a scale of 5. A level 4 rating means that “there is a real chance of a terrorist attack in the Netherlands” according to The Terrorist Threat Assessment Netherlands.

If you plan to travel to the Netherlands during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to the Netherlands, click here.

Spain

In Spain, terrorist attacks causing deaths and injuries have taken place. The government of Canada insists that further attacks in Spain cannot be ruled out.

The Spanish government maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media. The current threat level for Spain is level 4 (“high”) on a scale of 5.

If you plan to travel to Spain during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to the Spain, click here.

Sweden

Since the beginning of 2023, there has been an increase in incidents of public desecration of the Qur’an in Stockholm.

On Aug. 17, 2023, the Swedish Security Service (SAPO) raised the national terrorist threat level from 3 (elevated) to 4 (high) on a 5-step scale. The decision is based on an assessment that the threat posed by violent extremists has increased and will remain heightened.

The Government of Sweden maintains a public alert system on terrorism. The Government communicates threat level changes online and through local media.

If you plan to travel to Sweden during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to the Sweden, click here.

The United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, previous attacks have resulted in casualties. They have included random violent incidents in public areas, such as knife and vehicle attacks as well as explosions.

These incidents have occurred mainly in the London area but have also happened elsewhere. One of the most notable terror attacks was the London Bridge van attack on June 3, 2017. Eight people were killed and 48 were injured in a terrorist vehicle-ramming incident on the London Bridge.

According to the Canadian government, further attacks in the United Kingdom are likely.

The Government of the United Kingdom maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates terrorism and national emergency threat level changes online and through local media. The national terrorism and national emergency threat level is currently 3 (“substantial”) on a scale of 5. A separate threat level for Northern Ireland is currently 4 (“severe”) on a scale of 5.

If you plan to travel to the U.K. during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to the U.K., click here.

These new flights go directly from the Azores to the Algarve

May 31, 2024 No Comments

The two extraordinary Portuguese regions of the Azores and Algarve are now closer, with a new direct flight between Ponta Delgada and Faro provided by Azores Airlines.

Azores Airlines launched a direct connection flying between Ponta Delgada and Faro three times a week, on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with departures from Ponta Delgada at 9 a.m. and arriving in Faro at 12:25 p.m.

In the opposite direction, flights depart from Faro at 1:25 PM and arrive in Ponta Delgada at 3:05 PM. The schedules provide conditions for connections via Ponta Delgada to the U.S., and booking can be made through the various Azores Airlines channels.