Nobu Toronto is finally open, with a special grand opening offer

May 23, 2025 No Comments

Nobu Hotel Toronto is now officially open, welcoming guests as of June 1, 2025. Following the opening of its renowned restaurant in 2024 and the debut of its residences, the hotel completes the first integrated property under one roof, bringing together the brand’s signature pillars of hospitality, culinary excellence, and elevated living.

With the launch of Nobu Hotel Toronto in downtown’s lively Entertainment District, the integrated destination now offers guests and residents a seamless lifestyle experience anchored in luxury, design, and cultural energy.

Redefining luxury through a distinctly Nobu lens, Nobu Hotel Toronto is a boutique hotel comprising 36 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, perched atop the west tower of Nobu Residences on floors 41 to 45. Elevated above the bustle of the city, the luxury hotel is the highest in the city offering an extraordinary sense of privacy along with sweeping, panoramic views of Lake Ontario and Toronto’s iconic skyline.

Guests are invited to take in sweeping, cinematic views of Toronto from the hotel’s signature suites. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the city’s most iconic landmarks, providing a luminous vantage point from sunrise to sunset. For an even more immersive experience, Nobu’s signature hinoki wood deep-soaking tubs positioned beside panoramic windows, allow guests to unwind in serene luxury while overlooking the CN Tower and shimmering waters of Lake Ontario. All hotel rooms are crafted with a balance of natural materials, warm woods, and subtle Japanese detailing, where the lines between comfort, function, and elegance gently dissolve.

Key experiences at Nobu Toronto

  • Private Hotel Lobby: Accessible only to registered hotel guests, the lobby requires key card access offering respite and privacy.
  • Sakura Lounge with Complimentary Daily Breakfast: An exclusive guest-only space offering daily full a la carte breakfast, all-day dining and specialty guest programming, as well as a private dining room which can be used as a meeting space.
  • Complimentary Mini-Bar: All hotel guests enjoy unlimited locally sourced snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, replenished daily.
  • Complimentary Wellness Mini-Bar: Curated by Toronto-based wellness partner trove wellbeing™, enjoy rest, restoration, and balance with a selection of Canadian-made amenities including sea algae eye masks, marine collagen supplements, functional chocolate bar with adaptogens and more.
  • In-Room Wellness Program: Includes in-room yoga mat with Earth+Sky TV on-demand fitness classes, built-in automatic blackout blinds for the ultimate sleep and yuzu and ginger salt bath ritual. Advanced in-room spa treatment menu available.
  • Fitness Centre: Open 24/7, maintain your at-home routine with our Technogym® equipment, Peloton® bikes, Frame Pilates™ reformer, FORME Studio Mirror or explore the city on our stylish cruiser bikes.
  • Guestroom Amenities: Japanese deep soaking tubs, heated floors, Japanese yukata robes and slippers, TOTO® toilets, Byredo®, and Dyson® appliances.
  • Priority Access to Nobu Toronto Restaurant: Exclusive dining reservations guaranteed at the time of hotel booking.
  • In-Room Dining: Signature Nobu-style dishes delivered directly to your guestroom.
  • Mercedes-Benz Electric G-Class House Car: Guests have access to a 2025 Mercedes-Benz® G 580 with EQ Technology, providing seamless transportation in sustainable luxury.

To celebrate the launch, Nobu Hotel Toronto is offering a limited-time Grand Opening Offer, which can be found HERE.

Reservations are now available online at nobuhotels.com/toronto for stays starting June 1, 2025.

An adults-only hotel by Hyatt just opened in Greece with sea view suites

May 21, 2025 No Comments

Hyatt Hotels Corporation recently opened Zélia Halkidiki, an adults-only resort curated to offer guests an authentic and elevated Greek experience.

As the first Destination by Hyatt branded property in Greece, the opening reflects the growth momentum of the brand in one of Europe’s most sought-after travel destinations.

Located in the picturesque region of northern Greece, known for its crystal-clear waters, pine-fringed beaches and laid-back atmosphere, Zélia Halkidiki is perfectly suited for guests looking to slow down and unwind. The resort is nestled on a serene hillside surrounded by olive groves and near several local attractions including, Nea Moudania, the vibrant coastal destination known for its fresh seafood and beautiful beaches, and Afytos Village, a small seaside village characterized by its traditional stone houses, cobblestone streets and panoramic vistas of the Toroneos Gulf.

About Zélia Halkidiki

Zélia Halkidiki offers 104 exceptional guestrooms and suites, thoughtfully designed with a palette of beige, olive green and deep gray inspired by the surrounding landscape.

Natural materials such as raw wood, textured rock and organic finishes echo the natural beauty of Halkidiki, creating spaces that feel both grounded and effortlessly refined. Custom-made furniture reflects the unique blend of contemporary minimalism and earthy textures found throughout the guestrooms, combining comfort and elegance in complete harmony.

Guests can enjoy sweeping sea views whilst making use of in-room amenities including a 55-inch smart TV, revitalizing rain shower and Le Labo toiletries.

The serene spa amenities available at the hotel are designed to be an oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation. Facilities include a heated indoor pool and jetted bathtub, soothing sensory showers and a quiet room, while tranquil treatment rooms provide a holistic menu of services for guests to unwind and recharge. Outdoor swimming pools, including the relaxing Hebe infinity pool and energetic Zest pool, encourage a deeper connection with nature.

Guests are also welcome to partake in daily yoga and Pilates sessions, with reformers available for curated sessions, as well as weekly cinema nights under the stars, held in the tranquillity of the hotel’s olive grove.

The hotel offers a curated selection of dining experiences designed to cater to a variety of tastes while showcasing quality ingredients and diverse culinary traditions. Mesogaea allows guests to explore a range of Mediterranean dishes with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, while Shizen blends Japanese and Peruvian flavors, offering a contemporary fusion menu in a refined setting. Set in the property’s on-site olive grove, Syntrofi boasts a farm-to-table dining experiencing inspired by the hotel’s vegetable garden, with its menu reflecting in-season produce. For those looking to dine more leisurely, the Zest poolside restaurant focuses on authentic Greek cuisine with a menu built around traditional recipes and regional ingredients.

Aman gets ready to open its first location in the Bahamas, Amancaya

May 7, 2025 No Comments

Aman recently released details on its newest property, Amancaya, opening soon in Exuma, The Bahamas.

Bringing the revered Aman DNA of unparalleled service, awe-inspiring settings and privacy to one of the world’s most exclusive destinations in the Caribbean, the resort and branded residences will be the first location for the pioneering Aman Group in The Bahamas.

Amancaya will be set across two of the Exumas’ most secluded private cays, known for their white-sand beaches and world class diving. Meaning ‘peaceful island’ in Taíno, the property will comprise of a 36-pavilion Aman hotel and limited collection of fully-serviced Aman Residences.

Envisioned as a low-density ultra-luxury property in partnership with Swiss investor, philanthropist and sportswoman Dona Bertarelli, Amancaya will bring Aman’s coveted lifestyle to Exuma with a host of resort amenities, including a marina, Beach Club, Aman Spa and an array of dining venues across the two islands.

Amancaya is currently under construction, developed with the involvement of Squircle Capital, and will be Aman’s third property in the Caribbean region. The brand currently operates Amanera in Rio San Juan, Dominican Republic, and Amanyara in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.

Adults-only UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta opening this September

May 2, 2025 No Comments
UNICO Hotel Collection has announced the launch of UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta, the second hotel in the collection, signalling the start of a robust expansion into new regions across the world.
 
For over seven years, the UNICO brand has worked on providing guests unique experiences rooted in individuality, artisanal practices and a modern take on regional cultures to ensure travellers feel at-home in the world’s most striking locales. Now, UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta will open its doors on Sept. 1.
UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta, designed only for adults, continues to mirror the brand’s local focus, cultural curiosity and diverse activities. With just 141 rooms, the hotel offers an intimate stay designed with every comfort in mind–more than that, it leaves room for curiosity and exploration.
 
Inspired by the vibrant spirit of the Riviera Nayarit region, UNICO 20°105° offers a boutique experience that feels like a destination while still inviting guests to step out and connect with the local culture, ambiance, and community that make the city of Puerto Vallarta so special.
The resort offers signature features like Esencia Wellness Spa, Cafe Inez and personalized service through Local Hosts, while Epicures have the opportunity to indulge in three all-new specialty restaurants.
 
Bringing distinct flavours from the Vallarta region to the UNICO 20°105° doors is Agua Madre, serving Mexican fare; Lia, serving Italian provisions; and KOBO, serving Japanese-inspired cuisine.
 
Recognized as an exceptional destination by leading travel publications, Puerto Vallarta boasts a historic downtown, standout dining, prominent art galleries and time-honored hand crafts. UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta is purposefully placed to capture the best of Vallarta’s breathtaking natural beauty, surrounded by a world of activities and experiences.
 
For more information on UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta or to book a stay, visit https://www.unicohotelcollection.com/vallarta/.

JW Marriott brand comes to Portugal with opening at Palmares Resort

April 14, 2025 No Comments

JW Marriott’s first Portuguese property has opened at Palmares Ocean Living & Golf, a transformative addition to the celebrated Palmares Ocean Living & Golf resort will feature 172 elegantly appointed rooms and suites with sea views.

The hotel’s interior design, crafted by the renowned Goddard Littlefair, complements this architectural vision by ensuring a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

Every meal becomes a memorable occasion here. Start your day with fresh-baked pastries at the elegant all-day dining venue, savour a long lunch by the lively poolside bar, or celebrate special moments at the Michelin-starred Al-Sud restaurant. Local flavours take centre stage across all venues – think succulent oysters just harvested from the Alvor estuary, or sharing traditional dishes like tender octopus and Bulhão Pato clams, gently simmered in local white wine with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs.

Guests will discover perfect moments of peace in the wellness sanctuary, where traditional Portuguese healing practices meet contemporary luxury. Whether experiencing a customized treatment in the serene treatment suites, enjoying an invigorating session in the state-of-the-art fitness centre, or finding a quiet moment by the indoor or outdoor pools, every experience is designed to restore and rejuvenate.

Golf enthusiasts will find their paradise on the acclaimed 27-hole course. Each hole of the Robert Trent Jones Jr. masterpiece reveals new views of the Bay of Lagos. The experience is uniquely charming – a small regional train passing hourly along the coastal line adds a touch of local character to each round.

Opening beginning of 2028, JW Marriott at Palmares Ocean Living & Golf invites guests to discover where mindful luxury meets the authentic soul of Portugal.

Banyan Tree launches new global wellness program

April 4, 2025 No Comments

Banyan Tree has launched Banyan Tree Connections, a private wellbeing immersion for two with movement, mindfulness, and shared rituals that nurture both relationships and inner wellbeing.

Available as a supplement to room reservations, the programme will launch in four selected locations—Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru (Maldives), Banyan Tree Phuket (Thailand), Banyan Tree Mayakoba (Mexico), and Banyan Tree Anji (China)—starting May 2025.

Each destination offers distinctive experiences that reflect its natural and cultural essence, making every journey unique. Guests will embark on a holistic wellbeing private immersion programme for two, beginning with a personalized wellbeing consultation, followed by a series of experiences guided by Banyan Group’s 8 Pillars of Wellbeing to cultivate shared moments of togetherness between partners, friends and family members:

  • Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Maldives (Available from May 2025): A barefoot sanctuary where authenticity meets eco-luxury, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru invites guests to experience the original Maldives through 2- and 3-night programmes. Reconnect with nature and self through Yoga Duo, Conscious Grounding, Breathwork & Sound Meditation, and Lagoon Floating Therapy. Restore balance with a Holistic Wellbeing Treatment and a Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop. Local traditions come to life in a Maldivian Cooking Class, followed by a Private Sunset Cruise. The experience concludes with a Bonding Destination Dining experience, offering a serene moment of togetherness in an unforgettable setting.

  • Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand (Available from June 2025): Nestled among serene lagoons and lush tropical gardens, Banyan Tree Phuket offers a 2-night programme blending movement, mindfulness, and traditional healing practices. Guests can find deep relaxation through Sound Healing Meditation, enhance flexibility with a Private Yoga Duo session, and experience the restorative benefits of a Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop. A Time Together Spa Treatment fosters connection and renewal, while a Private Lagoon Kayak Sightseeing experience provides a tranquil exploration of the island’s natural beauty. The journey is complemented by a sharing-style Japanese dinner at Hojo, offering an exquisite culinary experience in a serene setting.

  • Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Mexico (Available from July 2025): Where nature and heritage intertwine, Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers Mayan-inspired wellbeing experiences through 2- and 3-night programmes. Guests can flow through Private Yoga Duo, Mangrove Movement, and Drum Breathwork Meditation, embracing the rhythms of the natural world. Renewal unfolds through a Temazcal purification ritual, Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop, and Time Together Spa Treatment. A private mangrove kayaking journey invites quiet reflection, while a Recycled Paper Workshop encourages creativity and sustainability. The programme concludes with a sharing-style La Copa Mexican dinner, bringing guests together over vibrant local flavours.

  • Banyan Tree Anji, China (Available from August 2025): Set amid misty bamboo forests and rolling tea plantations, Banyan Tree Anji offers a 2-night programme that harmonises movement, mindfulness, and nature. Guests can ease tension with a Private Duo Stretch session, find inner calm in a Sound Healing Meditation, and unwind with a 90-minute Time Together Spa Treatment. A private guided hike through Lingfeng Mountain invites deep connection with the landscape, while a White Tea Aroma Bath Bomb workshop draws from Anji’s tea traditions. The experience also features a sharing-style Saffron Thai dinner, offering an opportunity to savour authentic flavours in a warm, communal setting.

The Banyan Tree Connections programme is now available as a supplementary booking to room reservations at all four resorts.

For more information, visit www.banyantree.com/banyan-tree-connections.

The House reopens as an Autograph Collection all-inclusive resort in Barbados

March 28, 2025 No Comments
he House, Barbados, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only, one of the most beloved properties in Barbados, is thrilled to announce its grand reopening as part of Autograph Collection, a distinguished brand within Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 hotel brands. This elevated, adults-only, all-inclusive resort has undergone an extensive transformation to improve its facilities and guest experience, officially welcoming guests starting April 3, 2025.
 
Nestled on the pristine white sands of Barbados’ renowned Platinum West Coast and just 15 miles from the Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI), The House offers an oasis of tranquility and boutique-oriented comfort. The resort features 39 upscale rooms and suites with stunning ocean and lush garden views, creating a haven for relaxation and leisure beach time.

Personalize ambassador service

Guests at The House can indulge in a variety of amenities and experiences, including a personalized Ambassador Service, a complimentary Jet Lag Massage on stays longer than 4 nights, on property All-Inclusive Dining and extended to the other sister properties (Waves Resort & Spa and Treasure Beach Art Hotel) as part of the Dine Around Program offering 4 restaurants, 5 bars, and 1 coffee shop to enjoy within the three current open properties. Guests can also enjoy the resort’s exceptional daily Champagne Breakfast and delight in curated Afternoon Tea with canapés and macaroons.
 
The resort offers complimentary activities onsite such as motorized and non-motorized water sports satisfying guests’ need for adventure with snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, waterskiing, banana boating, and tubing.
 
The reopening of The House marks a new chapter for the resort under the Marriott International wing, combining the charm of its redesign with the sophistication and service excellence of the Autograph Collection. Guests can expect a seamless blend of elevation, comfort, and personalized service that defines the Autograph Collection all-inclusive properties.

Experience luxury in Barbados

The House is the third property in Barbados to reopen as part of the Autograph Collection, following the successful reopening of Waves Resort & Spa and Treasure Beach Art Hotel. Later this year other resorts on the island like Tamarind and Colony Club will follow converting to Autograph Collection and The Luxury Collection brands respectively when their renovations are concluded.
 
As part of the Autograph Collection, The House proudly participates in Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program, which allows members to earn and redeem points for their stay at this hotel and other properties and resorts in the portfolio. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members can enjoy a level of personalization and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.
 
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit The House, Barbados, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only website.

Nobu Hotel Manchester set to become the tallest building in London

March 10, 2025 No Comments

Nobu Hospitality, the globally recognised luxury lifestyle brand, has unveiled plans for a landmark development in Manchester, featuring a hotel, restaurant, and the UK’s first Nobu-branded residences. 

In partnership with leading, property developer Salboy, the project – currently named Viadux 2 – will introduce the Nobu Hotel Manchester as the tallest building outside London, standing at 246 metres. This development will bring the brand’s signature blend of luxury hospitality and world-class dining to the heart of the city. The Viadux 2 project represents a £360 million property development in a prime Manchester city centre location, subject to a positive planning outcome this spring.

The 76-storey tower will house 160 hotel rooms, sophisticated event spaces, and a signature Nobu restaurant and bar, each reflecting the brand’s signature minimalist design. The development will also introduce 452 Nobu residences, marking the brand’s debut into the UK’s luxury real estate market. Offering an exclusive opportunity to live the Nobu lifestyle, each residence will feature refined design with thoughtful Japanese details, premium amenities—including Nobu dining and room service —an exclusive swimming pool, spa, podium garden and gym, as well as unparalleled access to the city through a dedicated experience team.

Manchester has rapidly evolved into a prime destination for luxury hospitality and high-end real estate, attracting leading luxury brands and world-class restaurateurs. Nobu’s arrival marks a major milestone in this transformation, setting a new benchmark for upscale living and hospitality in the region.

Three new hotels to check out in Peru

March 7, 2025 No Comments

From a remote glamping site to contemporary urban hotels, Peru’s new accommodation options are sure to impress.  

In April, family-owned Andean will launch a new tented campsite in a secluded 370-acre nature reserve. Located along the route connecting Cusco with Puno and the Colca Valley, Tinajani comprises six upscale safari-style tented camps set within a spectacular stone forest (dubbed the ‘Canyon of the Guardians’) that formed following the erosion of an ancient pre-historic lake. Surrounded by towering rock formations, each luxury tent includes a bedroom, sitting area, private bathroom and hot tub. The all-inclusive property also provides excursions for guests to explore the remote Altiplano region, which is known for its stargazing skies and un-touched natural trails.

SOUMA Hotel Lima opened this month as the first IHG Vignette Collection property in South America.

Operated by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts, the hotel is situated on Lima’s Miraflores boardwalk and features 214 rooms designed in a minimalist décor with light wood accents. The property offers three restaurants specializing in Peruvian and Nikkei cuisine, a heated rooftop infinity pool, and sunrise yoga sessions overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Motto by Hilton makes its much-anticipated South American debut this year with the opening of Motto by Hilton Cusco. 

Located in the centre of the Imperial City, the 58-room property pays homage to Cusco’s past with guest suites that feature modern amenities with historic design elements inspired by Inca culture. The hotel is steps away from Cusco’s popular attractions and landmarks, such as Plaza de Armas and the Temple of the Koricancha. 

Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve opens in Costa Rica’s Peninsula Papagayo

February 21, 2025 No Comments

Nestled within one of the world’s most biodiverse destinations, Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, has officially opened its doors, offering discerning travellers a secluded, ultra-luxury retreat amidst the unspoiled natural beauty of Costa Rica’s Peninsula Papagayo.

Named after the Chorotega word for “lush garden,” Nekajui (NEK-ah-wee) marks a monumental milestone as the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Central and South America and the eighth addition to the brand’s exclusive portfolio.

Located on Peninsula Papagayo, a 1,400-acre canvas of dry tropical forest atop coastal cliffs, Nekajui’s collection of 107 thoughtfully designed ocean-facing rooms, suites, and three luxury treetop tents seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living while celebrating Costa Rica’s rich cultural heritage. Owned by Mohari Hospitality and Gencom, and developed by The Athens Group, the resort’s accommodations range from expansive guest rooms, starting at 872 square feet, to one- and two-bedroom suites, the luxurious four-bedroom Nekajui Grand Villa, and 36 private residences featuring two to five bedrooms. For the ultimate exclusivity, Villa Guayacan is a 10-bedroom retreat set amidst a remarkable natural backdrop.

Stunning accomodations

Showcasing framed vistas of Playa Pochote and the Pacific Ocean, the resort’s elegant accommodations feature multi-panel, floor-to-ceiling glass doors unveiling sweeping seascapes.

Outdoor shower gardens, private plunge pools, and deep-soaking tubs invite guests into a sensory immersion fully enveloped in nature’s beauty. Contemporary interiors reveal artistic craftsmanship, showcasing local custom woodwork and traditional accents that reflect the vibrant colours of the region’s flora and fauna. Chorotegan-inspired décor—featuring gold works, clay pottery, and hand-crafted local wood, stone, and tile—add to Nekajui’s unique sense of place, transporting guests to a timeless sanctuary and enhancing Costa Rica’s tropical paradise.

For more information visit www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/lirrz-nekajui-a-ritz-carlton-reserve.