Destinations – Page 21

These are five of the most beautiful places you can go glamping in Canada

March 21, 2022 No Comments

Despite recent changes towards international travel rules, domestic travel remains one of the most popular avenues for Canadians who are looking for an escape. According to the 2021 National Travel Survey by Statistics Canada, in the second quarter of 2021, virtually all (99.1%) of trips were domestic.

With domestic travel still very much a safe and viable option, camping has become more popular than ever, with nearly one third of all domestic trips (31.8%) dedicated to exploring Canada’s big backyard. As such, the demand for luxurious glamping (a portmanteau of “glamorous” and “camping”) facilities has also increased.

Unlike a traditional campsite, which more often than not requires campers to bring their own tent and supplies, glamping takes an elevated approach to sleeping in the great outdoors, with cosy yurt-like structures that provide guests with everything from supplied feather duvets to meals prepared by an on-site chef. With warmer weather just around the corner, here are five glamping spots to explore this spring.

Siwash Lake

Thompson-Nicola E, British Columbia

Available for three, four, or seven-night stays, the Siwash Star Camp provides overnight guests with panoramic views over Siwash Lake and the Marble mountains, where guests are guaranteed to catch a spectacular sunrise or sunset, as well as revel in expansive night skies thanks to the property’s private dark sky reserve. Each canvas tent is equipped with one king-sized bed (or two single beds) and a pull-out sofa, a three-piece bathroom, a wood-fired, cedar soaker-style hot tub, and a private campfire pit for the ultimate late night relaxation.

For added cosiness, each tent also features a wood-burning stove inside the tent, as well as a skylight above the bed to gaze at the stars, where sometimes, the Aurora Borealis streaks through the night sky in a series of spectacular colours. Rates include accommodation, gourmet meals, beverages, alcohol, and plenty of self-guided activities from dawn til dusk.

siwashlake.com

Northridge Inn & Resort

Sundridge, Ontario

Northridge Inn. Photo by: Black Saddle Photography.

Set on the water’s edge of Bernard Lake in the breathtaking Muskoka region, Northridge Inn & Resort provides a luxurious glamping getaway from Sundays to Thursdays. All of the glamping tent suites feature a front porch, cosy goose down duvets for those brisk nights, a small private fire pit and a propane barbeque for cooking, a coffee maker, and complimentary bath and shower products.

Inside the tent, guests also have a small dining and seating area. Just a short walk from the glamping area, guests will find washrooms with hot showers, toilets, and a dry sauna. Northridge Inn & Resort also provides guests with complimentary WiFi that even reaches the beach. As far as dining goes, leave the cooler at home—the resort has a restaurant that serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a lounge which offers hand-crafted cocktails in a charming setting.

northridgeinn.com/glamping-tents/

Outpost Co.

Georgian Bay, Ontario

Hidden along the shores of Georgian Bay, Outpost Co. has no electricity and no WiFi–the entire objective is to go back to basics and disconnect from the hyper-connectivity that infiltrates the everyday lives of most people. Instead, each guest is invited to unwind and reconnect with nature from the comfort of their own private campsite, which features a spacious canvas tent equipped with a queen-sized bed outfitted in Egyptian cotton sheets and eiderdown duvets and pillows. Rustic hand-crafted walnut luggage racks and vintage trunks are also included.

Guests can opt to stay in the wall tents, which are furnished with queen beds, or the bell tents, which include two twin-sized beds. Outpost Co. has partnered with Ascari Hospitality Group, which owns some of Toronto’s finest restaurants. Guests are given locally sourced ingredients that are then transformed into pre-prepared meals and transported directly to the campsite in chilled coolers. As part of the wilderness experience, guests will also prepare their own meals over a propane stove. Think less hotdogs and toasted marshmallows, and more campfire shakshuka and banana, chocolate, and hazelnut brioche!

outpostco.com

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge

Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Applauded as one of Vancouver Island’s most luxurious wilderness retreats, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is so off-the-grid, that it’s only accessible by seaplane. This all-inclusive luxury resort in British Columbia is nestled within miles of pine forests, making it a truly remote experience. There are 25 white canvas glamping tents, lining the banks of Clayoquot Sound and surrounded by ancient canopy growth.

Each luxuriously-appointed tent is decked out in contemporary style, with commissioned furnishing from local designers. Each luxury glamping suite sleeps anywhere from four to eight guests, and includes amenities such as an ensuite bathroom with heated floors, an outdoor cedar rainwater shower or soaker tub, a king-sized bed, and private deck or verandah. As an all-inclusive resort, each glamping experience at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort also includes gourmet dining, a selection of premium wines, beers and spirits, signature guided experiences, evening turndown service and more.

clayoquotwildernesslodge.com

Elk Island Retreat

Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta

Ever fancied a stay in a geodesic dome? At Elk Island Retreat, guests can choose to glamp in four unique dome-style yurts, including the Dark Sky dome, which is perfect for gazing at the stars. Set on 60 lush acres in Fort Saskatchewan, Alta., each luxury geo dome is furnished with amenities like a queen size bed with linens and bedding included, a Nespresso coffee maker (with pods for coffee and tea), a mini fridge and freezer, a fireplace gas heater (birch wood is available for purchase on site), and a private fire pit and picnic table.

Each geo dome sleeps a maximum of two guests. For a more romantic retreat, Elk Island also offers a charcuterie board for purchase which includes a selection of fine cheeses, cured meat, crudite and fruit. A bottle of red or white wine or non-alcoholic sparkling juice is also included with the board.

elkislandretreat.com

See our Glamping Guide for five must-haves for the ultimate sleep under the stars!

See why colourful Curacao is one of the hottest Caribbean islands to visit this year

March 14, 2022 No Comments

The Southern Caribbean island expands its offerings with a fresh roster of new restaurants, bars, art workshops, food-based experiences, and hotels

Home to more than 35 captivating beaches, a diverse heritage spanning 55 different cultures, and stunning European architecture, Curaçao – which sits on the outer fringes of the Hurricane Belt – remains an unrivaled tropical escape in the Southern Caribbean. Curaçao’s natural beauty, world-class dive sites, pristine beaches and idyllic weather have won it further accolade and recognition. Its capital city, Willemstad – a UNESCO World Heritage site – features the iconic and colourful Handelskade backdrop, vibrant street art, and a growing portfolio of boutiques, al fresco restaurants and trendy cafes, just to name a few of the many reasons why Curaçao continues to flourish as one of the most exceptional islands in the region.

Starting Mar. 10, testing will no longer be required to enter the destination, regardless of vaccination status or country of origin. Additionally, all on-island COVID measures (nightly curfew, mask mandates, proof of vaccination), have been eliminated. In addition to the change in entry requirements, restrictions surrounding nightly curfew, mask mandates and proof of vaccination for large-scale events have all been removed. The relaxed measures apply to the destination, though hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, and tour operators may enforce protocols at their discretion. Subsequently, it is recommended that travelers verify specific requirements or protocols directly with each venue.

With travellers now more than ever seeking memorable encounters and cultural immersions, the island is poised to become a trending destination in 2022 and beyond. Speaking to the island’s culture of creativity and inspired action, an impressive new roster of restaurants, craft cocktail lounges, nightlife venues, art workshops, immersive food encounters, and new hotels and resorts are introducing more ways to experience life in Curaçao.

Below are some of the newer experiences to be discovered:

New restaurants

With more than 55 nationalities on the island, Curaçao is recognized for its diversity and multicultural food scene. Not only can travellers enjoy traditional Caribbean and island fare, but also enjoy new, fine dining options and elevated European cuisine, as well as a unique mix of food influenced by the destination’s proximity to South American and Latin cultures.

New restaurants have opened in Curaçao, providing travelers with noteworthy options like Bario Urban Street Food – a colourful and unique outdoor food court located in the artsy and mural filled neighborhood of Otrobanda.

Part of Bario hotel, the food stands and plaza is made of shipping containers and food stalls, including Lionfish and Mangoes, which specializes in sustainable dining, bringing travellers the opportunity to taste the unique fish in inventive ways – from quesadillas to tartare.

Travellers seeking a locally trendy dining experience should head to the island’s first gastropub, BKLYN, which offers sharable food like jackfruit bao buns and cocktails in a lively setting with 90’s hip hop headlining the soundtrack.

While the island is known for its Blue Curaçao, never has it been blended into cuisine, until the opening of Ceviche 91. Located in the historic Rif Fort overlooking the ocean and the iconic Queen Emma floating bridge, Ceviche 91 is home to the world’s first Blue Curaçao Ceviche, made with local fresh seafood and the iconic liquor. Other delectable new restaurants include SAL The Kitchen, which stands for “salt” in Spanish and celebrates the fact that the walls of the restaurant, and specifically the kitchen, were built out of coral, Serafina – the island’s quintessential Italian restaurant with a dreamy patio and handmade pastas, and the lively OBaAR Brazilian Lounge which offers South American cuisine.

When it comes to casual dining, travellers can enjoy the new De Broeders (Two Brothers) Café located in the heart of Willemstad that offers local cuisine with a modern twist, or Bliss the Berry, the new breakfast and lunch option in Mambo Beach known for fresh, tropical smoothie bowls.

Balancing out these new and modern options are immersive experiences that focus on highlighting ancestral cooking techniques and true Curaçaoan flavors. Vittle Art is a new bespoke cooking workshop that takes place in the cacti-filled countryside and focuses on generations old techniques. Participants forage local and wild ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and plants, that are grown on the property’s grounds and then learn how to create local dishes from scratch.

A group lunch is enjoyed in a bohemian setting overlooking the hills and desert like landscape. Further connecting guests with Curaçao’s history, the Pan Sera breadmaking workshop at Kas di Pal’i Maishi serves as a window into the daily routines of the rural population from 130 years ago. Small groups learn how to make traditional bread with resourceful tools, then enjoy an al fresco lunch, pairing their creations with traditional stews.

Nightlife is back

The popular, walkable district of Pietermaai, known for its boutique hotels, small shops, cozy cafes, and nightlife scene, is back in full swing. With its picturesque and pastel-colored buildings and a street donned with sparkling lights, Pietermaai is the quintessential Curaçaoan experience.

Here, travellers will enjoy the island’s first mixology-focused craft cocktail lounge, Ochenta Cocktail Bar; the lively and social Mr. Porter Cafe; and the iconic Cuban-inspired Mundo Bizarro Restaurant and Lounge. No night out in Curaçao is complete without a visit to “Truk’i Pans” or food trucks, with local favorite being BBQ Express, offering BBQ meats and french fry combo plates topped with flavors like local peanut sauce.

Where to stay

Curaçao has seen a surge of new and re-branded hotel developments backed by the world’s top hospitality brands, as well as unique boutique and independently owned properties. From a fully renovated Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort and Renaissance Curaçao Resort & Casino, to a brand-new Curio by Hilton Collection property, Mangrove Beach Corendon Curaçao Resort, the all-inclusive Dreams Curaçao Resort, Spa and Casino, and the Wyndham-branded Kunuku Aqua Resort, the world’s leading hospitality brands have set their sights on Curaçao and planted flags on the island.

Leading into 2022, the momentum does not stop with the recent grand opening of Zoëtry Curaçao Resort & Spa and the upcoming grand opening of Sandals Royal Curaçao in Summer 2022.

Travellers that prefer independently owned and locally-inspired accommodations can enjoy artful and inspired new boutique hotels, like the 8-room BOHO Bohemian Boutique Hotel in the heart of Pietermaai, the nature-inspired Terra Boutique Hotel, or the colorful 18- room Bario Boutique Hotel, located in the artsy district of Otrobanda. For travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience and to get to know Curaçao outside of the capital city of Willemstad, the island offers diverse options, such as the eco-tourism focused Mondi Lodge, the private and remote plantation home Landhuis de Bouvrie available on Airbnb, or the quirky and intimate Bed & Bike Boutique Hotel located in the famous Jan Thiel Beach area.

For more information on visiting Curacao, click here!

Mexico just got a new hotel and it’s home to the highest rooftop bar in Cabo

March 11, 2022 No Comments

Occupying prime real estate along the coveted shores of Medano Beach in Cabo San Lucas is Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa, the newest addition to Noble House Hotels & Resorts’ elite collection.

Open as of Feb. 24, 2022, the hotel features a new-build tower with 204 rooms and suites, contemporary meeting space, the highest and most lavish rooftop bar in Cabo, two infinity edge pools, and various dining options.

Currently, guests can experience the modern guest rooms, pools, lobby and posh rooftop bar, while next year’s grand reveal will encompass the complete unveiling including the signature restaurant and fresh meeting space. In addition to the newly built tower and its amenities, guests also have access to pre-existing features enveloped into the Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa experience, including Baja Brewing, the only micro-brewery in Cabo San Lucas; Aleta, an oceanfront all-day dining destination; additional pools; full-service Sparitual and salon; and Corazón Beach Club, the largest beach club on Medano Beach, the only swimmable beach in Cabo San Lucas.

Photography By Francisco Estrada Photo Mexico Studio.

Standing nine stories high, the new Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa is topped off byRooftop360, which proudly holds the title of the highest rooftop bar in Cabo. The roomy and ritzy deck boasts unmatched views of the Sea of Cortez and enchanting city skyline, flanked by an infinity pool overlooking the sea. The bar evokes local charm with custom patterned cement tiles made in Todos Santos embellishing its façade, while string lights and chandeliers dangle from the signature, leaf-patterned pergola ceiling made of Palo-de-Arco, a material typically used in Baja.

The contemporary new build offers 187 hotel rooms and 17 luxury suites, ranging in size from 358to 945 square feet.With an envious location where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, the building’s design by Mexican architect Arnoldo Rábago of RACO is inspired by the surrounding nautical elements, playing upon clean modern lines to offer somewhat of a departure from the typical Cabo model.

Trendy new aparthotel opens in one of Dublin’s hottest up-and-coming neighbourhoods

March 7, 2022 No Comments

Lifestyle aparthotel brand Locke has announced the official launch of Beckett Locke in the centre of Dublin’s thriving Docklands area.

The opening will mark Locke’s third location outside of the UK, which also includes the recently opened Zanzibar Locke by Dublin’s Ha’penny Bridge, and Schwan Locke in Munich.

Tucked behind the 3Arena, the 241-studio aparthotel will become a new hub for culture and entertainment in the city. Set around a naturally lit atrium, Beckett Locke features a neighbourhood co-working space, artisan coffee shop, restaurant and intimate cocktail bar in addition to meeting and event space for up to 100 people. Beckett Locke’s beautifully designed apartments (which range from 23sqm to 53sqm) each feature fully-fitted kitchens, living and dining space – making them suitable for short, medium, and long stays.

Stephen McCall, CEO of Locke’s parent company edyn said, “We are thrilled to open Beckett Locke, our second home in Dublin and the third international property in the Locke family. The Locke experience ranges from cultural programming to creative partnerships and our ambition is to establish Beckett Locke as a creative hub for guests and locals alike.”

Designed by the London studio of globally renowned design firm AvroKO in collaboration with local firm C+W O’Brien Architects, the interiors of Beckett Locke take their cue from Dublin’s maritime history and the Docklands’ deep industrial heritage.

The layout of the social spaces are inspired by a traditional Docklands market hall – comprising a co-working area, meeting rooms, cocktail bar, coffee shop and restaurant, all set around a central glass atrium. The assimilation of local narratives flows into the apartments, which feature black steel, exposed concrete and rust-coloured soft furnishings, which evoke the intrepid colourways and history of the Docklands. Unique to Beckett Locke, each studio apartment has been designed in-house by edyn Development Studio.

Beckett Locke also houses three new food and drink concepts by Alan Clancy’s native restaurant group, NolaClan (House Dublin, 9 Below and Xico). ‘North 7th Coffee’ will fuel the co-working space from the early morning throughout the day, serving artisan coffee, delicate pastries, and hearty sandwiches. Meanwhile, ‘The Belis’ restaurant will offer a contemporary Irish take on classic dishes using freshly sourced ingredients. Nestled in a decadent theatre-like setting, complete with rich red velvets and draped chain canopy, ‘Sam’s Corner’ will shake up handcrafted cocktails inspired by Beckett Locke’s namesake, playwright Samuel Beckett.

Beckett Locke will also host an evolving cultural activation programme where locals and guests can participate talks, events and workshops hosted by local businesses and creatives. This will be complemented by an evolving cultural activation series, which will invite local creatives, brands, and businesses to host talks, workshops and events.

Locke’s hybrid ‘home-meets-hotel’ concept has proven popular among guests seeking flexible accommodation for a night, to a month or longer. Each apartment provides the space and comfort of home – including fully fitted kitchens, adaptable living areas where guests can dine or work, and ample storage – with industry-leading design and guest experience. This is combined with the social attributes of a lifestyle hotel, including buzzy co-working spaces, original food and drink concepts and a team of local house hosts.

The opening of Beckett Locke follows the successful launch of the 160-apartment Zanzibar Locke, which opened by Ha’penny Bridge in the centre of Dublin in June this year.

Room rates at Beckett Locke start from €110 per night. Discounted rates are also available for mid- to long-stay guests.

A popular luxury hotel brand is making its debut in Madrid this spring

February 25, 2022 No Comments

Thompson Hotels, a luxury brand known for combining curated design and culinary sophistication with the right amount of edge, is all set to welcome its first property in Spain.

Slated to open in mid-2022, the Thompson Madrid is a 175-room luxury lifestyle hotel that will mark a significant milestone for Hyatt as the brand celebrates its thoughtful growth in Europe with its debut in Spain.

With fashion, art and entertainment at the heart of the Thompson Hotels experience, the brand attracts tastemakers from international guests to emerging creatives in the neighborhood. At Thompson Madrid, guests will experience elements of Madrid’s culture through the hotel’s striking design and spaces that have been inspired by the soul of the city and its architecture.

A vibrant mix of global sophistication and cultural know-how, the prime location will embody the Thompson Hotels brand’s promise to provide a dynamic home-base for culture savvy guests to connect with each other and what inspires them. Perfect for both business and leisure guests, Thompson Madrid will be located in the center of the new Golden Mile of Madrid, and steps away from the most visited icons of the city, Puerta del Sol and the eclectic Gran Vía street.

The hotel’s 175 guestrooms, including 23 exceptional suites, have been carefully designed and decorated to make guests to discover a new sense of modern luxury. The guestrooms will feature balconies and terraces with city views and fashion forward art and style. Thompson Madrid will offer a truly unique stay with the additional offer of a two-story penthouse with panoramic views.

Thompson Madrid will be a social anchor of the neighbourhood boasting three food and beverage outlets housed on various floors, including the signature rooftop terrace with a bar and restaurant, as well a speak-easy style venue. The culinary offerings will be managed by the renowned Grupo La Ancha, with a strong presence in Spain since the early 20^thcentury and creator of beloved dining concepts such as Fismuler in Madrid. The rooftop will offer stunning views overlooking Madrid and will include an urban oasis, with a state of the art outdoor pool, a hilltop residential style bar, and a destination day club. Additional amenities will include uniquely designed event spaces, as well as an open-air courtyard and a fitness centre.

A boutique glass dome hotel in Machu Picchu makes for an unforgettable sleep under the stars

February 21, 2022 No Comments

Tucked between Cusco and Machu Picchu, in the heart of the Sacred Valley, StarDome Peru, a one-of-a-kind geodesic dome boutique hotel, has officially opened its doors.

Co-founded and run by the local indigenous Quechuan community, StarDome Peru provides curious travellers with firsthand cultural immersions and transformational experiences led by locals.

Accepting reservations starting Feb. 1, the property is the “epitome of rugged luxury, where heated marble floors and handmade ceramic bathrooms are contrasted by an ultra-remote location only accessible through a private road and a staff that, while enthusiastic to serve, is 100% local with no prior hospitality training.

With prime location and deep local roots, StarDome Peru serves as a gateway to the region and is passionate about providing native cultural experiences, nature immersions and spiritual encounters for those seeking not just to travel, but to heal. StarDome Peru’s structure is that of a geodesic dome where the bottom floor offers access to five guest suites and the top floor offers the unique and immersive StarDeck — the heart of the property. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls, 360 degree views and a telescope allow for guests to feel like they are one with the sky. The space is built for lounging, stargazing or hosting events. Guests can choose from six accommodation options.

Within the StarDome guests can choose from five suites: the Garden Mountain, Garden Valley, one of two Sacred Valley Suites and the owner’s personal hideout, the Royal Mountain Suite. Inspired by traditional Incan decor and construction, all of the suites include heated marble floors, a private stone shower, traditional Inca-inspired tiling by world-renowned Peruvian ceramic artist Seminario, queen-sized beds, handmade blankets and hotel-like amenities.

Meanwhile, the Royal Mountain Suite offers a luxurious space like no other with double the room, a King-sized bed, a double jacuzzi and a private entrance to the StarDeck, in addition to the most iconic view of the region. Towering above StarDome in a stand-alone, cabin-like structure, the Royal Apu Suite, offers guests the best views and ultimate privacy. Included with each suite booking is a traditional breakfast at the StarDome’s signature restaurant Apu, with options for private dining experiences that showcase the refined culinary heritage of Peru and highlight local chefs.

Future plans call for as many as ten more suites, a healing center for yoga and groups up to 20 with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and endless views. Guests can book either nightly stays or three to six-day all-inclusive personal retreat packages that cover everything from accommodations and transportation, to meals and curated experiences.

Led by Quechua Inca community members and elders, StarDome guests can take part in unforgettable experiences like healing ceremonies, plant medicine encounters, and natural excursions to some of the area’s most sought-after destinations, such as the renowned Machu Picchu, the Puma Marca Archeological Site, and the ancient village of Ollantaytambo, to name a few.

Catering to solo travelers, couples and groups alike, StarDome Peru also offers buy-out options. Introductory nightly rates start from $399 during low season and $1,299 during high season.

All bookings can be made directly through www.stardomeperu.com.

After two long years, Australia is finally opening its borders for tourism again

February 18, 2022 No Comments

Australia will begin welcoming the return of tourists, business travellers and other visitors who are fully vaccinated visa holders as of Feb. 21, 2022.

In a joint statement, the Hon. Scott Morrison MP, the Hon. Greg Hunt MP and the Hon. Dan Tehan MP indicated that “these changes will ensure we protect the health of Australians, while we continue to secure our economic recovery.”

They pointed out that Australia’s health system has demonstrated its resilience throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including though the recent Omicron wave. With improving health conditions, including a recent 23% decline in hospitalizations due to COVID, the National Security Committee of Cabinet today agreed Australia is ready to further progress the staged reopening of our international border.

Visa holders who are not fully vaccinated will still require a valid travel exemption to enter Australia, and will be subject to state and territory quarantine requirements.

They also noted that the Feb. 7, 2022 announcement “will give certainty to our vital tourism industry, and allow them to start planning, hiring and preparing for our reopening. In 2018-19, tourism generated more than $60 billion for the Australian economy, with more than 660,000 jobs dependent on the industry.

Since the Morrison Government commenced Australia’s staged international border reopening on 1 November 2021 we have seen almost 580,000 arrivals come to Australia including to reunite with loved ones, work or study.”

Earlier this month, New Zealand announced that it will be reopening its borders using a five-step plan that will see it fully open by October of 2022.

This stunning new luxury hotel in Tulum was designed with the help of local artisans

February 14, 2022 No Comments

Located eight miles north of Tulum, in a secluded bay surrounded by a tropical forest and pristine Caribbean waters, the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya is a 349-room resort that offers a retreat for guests seeking a transformative getaway, with curated signature restaurants, destination spa, oceanfront pools and access to Tulum’s celebrated sights and attractions.

In the heart of the world’s most exquisite natural wonders, from jungles and beaches to hidden cenotes and colorful flora and fauna, Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya is designed to give guests a deep connection with Tulum’s distinctive landscape. Upon entering the lobby, guests pass through ornate wooden doors, engraved by local artisans, and are immediately greeted by sweeping ocean views and an immersive art installation, a nod to ancient Mayan architecture and Tulum’s surroundings.

The nature-inspired theme continues throughout the hotel’s thoughtfully designed guest rooms, incorporating organic elements such as stone, wood and metal. Boasting floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic ocean views, guest rooms are designed with calming tones and elegant furnishings, each with their own private balcony and relaxation tub or plunge pools on the ground floor rooms.

Guests seeking additional space can enjoy a suite complete with a spacious living room and adjacent dining area for up to eight people, as well as a spa-inspired master bathroom complete with a soaking tub and rainfall shower.

A destination unto itself, Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya’s diverse dining options include five restaurants as well as six bars and lounges featuring globally inspired cuisine, casual poolside fare and world-class catering for meetings and events. Venues include energizing bar experiences serving up generous wine lists, regional spirits and refreshing tropical cocktails, and elevated dining experiences offering flavors of the world with innovative and local twists. A sample of the dining offerings at the hotel includes:

Autor: The resort’s most sophisticated dining experience is an ode to its chef or ‘author’ where guests experience a personalized culinary journey curated by Chef Jersaí Miranda.
Maratea: Features distinct cuisine inspired by the Mediterranean Basin from southern Spain to North Africa, Greece and Turkey.
Ukai: A sushi bar dedicated to the traditional Japanese fishing method, brought to life as a contemporary sushi counter committed to sustainable fishing.
Kengai: A Teppanyaki restaurant that merges classic Japanese and Southeast Asian techniques with local ingredients and styles, whose name is inspired by the Jacaranda tree, brought to Mexico by Japanese immigrants in the 20^th century.
Chaak Bar: Named after the Mayan rain god and inspired by the cenotes where the Mayans would connect with him, Chaak Bar offers guests a place to seek shelter and recharge.
Cafetal: This upscale café and market are inspired by the traditional Tianguis, an economic and social gathering center in Mexican culture serving locally sourced coffee, snacks and all-day essentials.

Allowing travellers to discover new facets of well-being and self-fulfillment, the guest experience at Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya is characterized by a deep connection with the natural environment and to honor Tulum’s cultural traditions. Whether floating, snorkeling or kayaking in the crystal-clear bay waters or lounging in an oceanfront cabana by one of the five pools, guests can fully immerse themselves in this mystical paradise.

Nestled within lush mangroves, the Conrad Spa Tulum, for example, is a destination purposefully designed as a wellness refuge. Guests enjoy a wide range of services inspired by the legends of the Mayan gods and traditional Mexican herbalism in individual treatment rooms or “casitas.” Spa offerings include an extensive menu of body rituals, a sensory Water Ritual including an outdoor pool and thermal facilities and the Mayan Manteada, an ancient massage technique in which shawls are tied around the waist to relax and realign the body.

For guests looking for an enlightened sense of well-being and tranquility, the property has an in-house Shaman to perform ancient rituals like the purifying gratitude and sacred cenote ceremonies.

For more information, including photos, click here.

3 amazing wildlife encounters you can only have in The Bahamas

February 11, 2022 No Comments

A cool Caribbean archipelago encompassing 700 dreamy islands, The Bahamas has quickly become a favoured destination for Canadians flying south for the winter. Beyond its offering of beaches, sand and spas, The Bahamas is also a haven for wildlife lovers, its waters teeming with fascinating animals like gentle nurse sharks, stingrays and the Instagram-famous swimming pigs.

The island of Andros is home to the world’s third largest barrier reef, which hosts more than 164 species of fish and coral, making it one of the most popular locations in the country for divers and snorkellers. The beauty of The Bahamas goes beyond (and below!) the surface of its beaches. Visitors to the region have the chance to experience and enjoy the thrill of close wildlife encounters and voyages on animal adventures unlike anywhere else.

Meet Exuma’s most famous residents

Most novel of these experiences has to be the renowned swimming pigs in The Exumas. A must-visit photo opportunity, popularly documented across social media, the Big Major Cay swimming pigs are equally adorable and mysterious. How did these intelligent creatures end up living the dream on their own private island, surrounded by crystal blue waters with cascading palm tree canopies?

The story is still unclear. Some share enchanting tales of buccaneers and pirates, their captive porkers making a grand escape, while others speak of farmers seeking a place for their animals to be away from their homes and villages. Whatever the truth may be, be sure to speak to the locals whilst there and see which story rings the most true to you. The captivating swimming pigs have captured the hearts and attention of many and are an important and protected asset of the Bahamian ecosystem.

Adhering to a strict diet, it is important for visitors to abide and respect the rules and regulations and to remember that though appearing cute and cuddly, the swimming pigs are still wild animals that should be respected, treated gently and should only be fed fruits and vegetables. Guests are able to visit the pigs via chartered tours where they can spend time in the water with the animals, feeding them, petting them and observing how they swim and interact with each other and their tropical surroundings.

Swim with the sharks

Over in Compass Cay, located 75 miles from Nassau, the gentle and docile Compass Cay sharks (also known as nurse sharks) await the attention and admiration of human visitors with eagerness not to be outdone by their porcine counterparts. Growing up to 10ft long and weighing anywhere between 200-300 pounds, these bottom dwelling sharks feed on a diet of shellfish and coral and can live for up to 25 years.

Brown in appearance and smooth to touch, with hundreds of tiny serrated teeth, Compass Cay sharks are mostly harmless to humans, but should still be treated like all wild animals, with care and consideration guiding your interactions with them. A unique attribute of the nurse shark is their sucking: they vacuum up sediments with a distinctive high-pitched squeal, which makes them all the more endearing.

Snorkel with sting rays

Similar in smoothness and the way in which they gracefully glide through the Bahamian waters are the beloved Stingrays of Grand Bahama Island. Swim, snorkel or simply stand and enjoy these stingrays and their shallow white sand home. A gentle hands-on experience, suitable for the entire family, including little ones who are certain to never forget the memorable experience of holding and feeding a friendly stingray.

The Islands of the Bahamas are rich and abundant in the natural resources and wildlife that they have to offer those who visit the region, with swimming pigs, sharks and stingrays as well as starfish, turtles and more. Whether in shallow waters or wading in the deep, you are guaranteed to make lasting memories and enjoy experiences that you’ll reminisce long past the end of your holiday as you plan and anticipate your next visit.

An all-villa and suite luxury resort is coming to Vietnam

February 4, 2022 No Comments

IHG Hotels & Resorts will launch the first resort from its upper-luxury brand, Regent Hotels & Resorts in Spring 2022 in Southeast Asia.

Situated off the southwest coast of Vietnam, alongside a UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve and located just 15 minutes from Phu Quoc International Airport, guests will be able to immerse in Regent Phu Quoc’s spectacular 176 suites and 126 villas, set against the serene waterfront backdrop of Long Beach.

Designed by BLINK Design Group, who were inspired by the island’s tropical abundance and tranquil surrounding, the villas at Regent Phu Quoc reveal panoramic views of the pearlescent ocean and sky with a private infinity pool. The resort offers multiple accommodation options perfect for both couples and families, from one-bedroom havens to expansive seven-bedroom ultra-villas, including beach pool villas with direct access to the pristine white beach, sky pool villas situated high in the Sky Wing boasting breathtaking ocean views and lagoon pool villas which overlook the striking vista of the resort’s lagoons.

Guests will be greeted by a modern interpretation of Vietnamese roofs, and a variation of the local traditional wooden truss structural system, known as the Bovi, has been developed into subtle patterns found on screens, carpets and accessories. Another local style known as Gian Nha- comprising small pockets and courtyards within a traditional Vietnamese house- is the inspiration for the courtyards featured in villa designs. The boundaries of indoor and outdoor areas blur through intelligent zoning across the resort as an homage to Gian Nha, providing privacy within a luxurious setting in this evolution of a traditional way of living.

From day to night, six curated venues at Regent Phu Quoc offer multi-sensorial experiences, celebrating the world of gastronomy, creating experiences that encourage guests to immerse themselves in the moment.

Among the six world-class restaurant and bar creations are Oku, an enchanting Franco-Japanese Salon de Boeuf serving the finest beef cuts and sushi at the Omakase counter; Rice Market, an all-day dining restaurant that takes diners on a culinary journey through Southern Vietnam and north towards the border of China; Ocean Club, a Mediterranean inspired beachfront venue that features rum-inspired cocktails and a live in-house DJ.; Lobby Lounge, a relaxing parlor offering all-day fare and beverage specialties that transform together with the time of the day; Bar Jade, a speakeasy for fine artisanal spirits and custom cocktails mixed with fresh local herbs; and Fu Bar, an exclusive sky pool terrace & bar specializing in gin-focused cocktails and inspired local bites.

The Spa at Regent Phu Quoc redefines wellness experiences through innovation and design, offering a curated approach of contemporary and traditional treatments that go beyond the ordinary. Guests can experience a highly personalized wellness itinerary guided by the resident Holistic Wellness Coach. The resort’s holistic wellness programs include Acoustic/Vibrational Therapy complemented by the Welnamis System and Psammo Hot Sand Therapy on an exclusive quartz bed designed by Gharieni, one of the world’s leading spa manufacturers in addition to Biologique Recherche and the Pedi:Mani:Cure concept salon by renowned podiatrist Bastien Gonzalez. The Health Club features a fitness centre, reset meditation studio and rooftop yoga pavilions to recharge and rejuvenate.

Nearly half of Phu Quoc island is a National Park. The northern part of the island is home to 121 square miles of lush tropical forest which has been declared as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, while the southern part of the island is popular for its pristine white sand beaches. Regent Phu Quoc introduces a range of immersive destination experiences manifesting the rustic charm of an idyllic island life.