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.

JW Marriott opens its second hotel in the Maldives

February 10, 2025 No Comments

JW Marriott has opened its second property in the Maldives.  

Nestled in Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon and conveniently located just 15 minutes by boat from Velana International Airport, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort is a luxurious retreat that offers an idyllic sanctuary to recharge the mind, body, and spirit in this tropical oceanic paradise.

With 80 thoughtfully designed private pool villas, including 47 overwater pool villas, the resort blends traditional island aesthetics with contemporary luxury to create a harmonious connection with nature. A haven for relaxation, each villa boasts expansive terraces, uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, and access to pristine lagoons.

Perched above the turquoise waters, the Three-Bedroom Ocean Residence offers an unparalleled sanctuary, blending luxury with breathtaking views for a truly exceptional experience. Tailored for families or groups of friends, this elegant residence provides a refined space to connect and create lasting memories, all while enjoying uninterrupted panoramic ocean views.

A culinary journey

The resort’s seven distinct dining venues and bars offer an extraordinary culinary journey, featuring flavors from around the world and thoughtfully sourced ingredients, inviting guests to indulge in a celebration of taste and craftsmanship. 

Veyo, with its international menu, celebrates the resort’s innate flair for catering to a wide range of discerning tastes where fresh and inspiring ingredients paired with panoramic views awaken the senses.

Meanwhile, Wahoo, the infinity pool bar, provides a laid-back yet refined atmosphere where guests can enjoy refreshing beverages and aromatic dishes. At Athiri, the resort’s signature steakhouse, guests will be captivated by its stunning two-story design, featuring a dramatic curved roof inspired by the rise and fall of ocean waves. Here, premium cuts of meat are expertly prepared, complemented by panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.

Perched above, Nikkei offers a vibrant bar experience with craft cocktails and light bites inspired by the fusion of Peruvian cuisine and global influences, blending both Japanese and European traditions. At Riva, guests can indulge in a sophisticated reinterpretation of Indian Ocean heritage. This fine dining destination elevates traditional Indian dishes, Sri Lankan elements, and local Maldivian flavors, served in an elegant and contemporary setting. For those seeking an intentional dining experience, Pure, showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients crafted into exquisite dishes that honor the island’s natural bounty. Many ingredients such as Rosemary, Mint, Basil, Thyme and Sage are harvested directly from the JW Garden, offering an authentic farm-to-table experience. 

Tito’s, a charming deli and patisserie, offers a captivating convergence of visual artistry and exquisite flavors. Its carefully curated collection of handcrafted delights features decadent chocolates, delicate macarons, rich truffles, luxurious cakes, and flaky pastries — each one designed to indulge and enchant the senses.

Revive and reconnect

At the overwater Spa by JW, guests can find renewal through exclusive treatments featuring BABOR’s precision skincare products — a first in the Maldives.

The signature treatment, Ocean Bliss, crafted in collaboration with BABOR, highlights their most prestigious anti-aging skincare range, SeaCreation, enriched with precious active ingredients sourced from deep sea, delivering a transformative experience that embodies the best of precision skincare and island-inspired relaxation.

Wellness enthusiasts can also enjoy sunrise yoga, a state-of-the-art fitness centre with ocean views, and a lap pool.

Guests seeking adventure can participate in marine life activities through snorkeling, diving, and tailored ocean excursions. Thrill-seekers can explore dolphin safaris or parasailing, while those craving stillness can sail into the sunset on a cruise.

The resort’s carefully designed public spaces create moments of serenity for calm reflection, helping to restore balance and focus. Whether indulging in exceptional cuisine, unwinding at the overwater Spa by JW, or partaking in unforgettable adventures, every aspect is designed to inspire renewal and connection. 

For reservations or more information, please visit: www.jwmarriottkaafuatoll.com.

A palace-like hotel is opening in a 17th century building Paris

February 7, 2025 No Comments

Maybourne has today announced a 2027 opening for its newest development in the Parisian quarter of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, The Maybourne Saint-Germain, bringing a palace-style hotel with 101 keys and 23 ultra-luxury branded residences to Paris for the first time.

Expanding its prestigious hotel portfolio, Maybourne is creating an extraordinary property that reimagines bespoke hospitality in the City of Light, affirming its status as the eminent choice for global luxurians and strategically focusing on growth within select urban gateways.

The Maybourne Saint-Germain is located along the Rive Gauche within the iconic 17th-century Îlot Saint-Germain, marking a new era for the historic building. The 23 residences will be envisioned by two renowned French interior designers, with seven by Pierre-Yves Rochon along Rue Saint-Dominque, and 16 residences by Laura Gonzalez, located on Rue de l’Université.

About the Maybourne Saint-Germain

Positioned between Boulevard Saint-Germain and Rue Saint-Dominique, the Îlot Saint-Germain has been a Parisian landmark since the 17th century.

Re-concepted for the 21st century, The Maybourne Saint-Germain will create a fourth era for Îlot Saint-Germain, seamlessly integrating with its heritage and creating a new layer of history.

As with each of Maybourne’s properties, The Maybourne Saint-Germain will be extraordinary in its own right while remaining connected to its sister hotels through the brand’s signature craft, progressive vision, and unrivalled locations. The hotel will feature 50 suites and 51 rooms, surrounding a serene inner courtyard.

Aspiring to be the living room of Saint-Germain, residents and guests will also have access to six food and beverage outlets, including a Japanese restaurant, patisserie, Salon de Thé, and more, and Maybourne’s new wellness and longevity brand, Surrenne. A central part of the project, Surrenne will be one of Paris’ largest luxury spa and health clubs offering immersive health, fitness, and beauty, as well as access to a third pool within the property. The 23 branded residences, all serviced by the hotel, will include access to a designated 25-metre pool accessible only by residents, in addition to the hotel’s 30-metre rooftop pool (pictured above).

This opening, born from a fusion of avant-garde Parisian chic with heritage and artistic flair, will mark Maybourne’s first property in Paris and its second in France.

To find out further information about The Maybourne Saint-Germain visit maybourne.com/development.

Italian masterpiece Casa Brera debuts in Milan with Michelin chefs

February 5, 2025 No Comments

Casa Brera, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Milan, has joined the prestigious The Luxury Collection brand by Marriott International.

Strategically located in the heart of Milan, the hotel is nestled in the charming pedestrian Piazzetta Bossi, a few steps away from Teatro alla Scala and the lively Brera neighbourhood.

Originally designed in the 1950s by the esteemed Italian architect Pietro Lingeri, a leading figure of Italian Rationalism, the building’s heritage is celebrated through its geometric graphics present on the walls, floors – true marble carpets – and ceiling, that outline the interiors. The Rationalist inspiration is further reflected in the choice of finishings and stones, with a preference for Italian marbles, especially granite, which echoes the building’s facade and represents a recurring design motif.

An epicurean celebration

The culinary direction is guided by the acclaimed Michelin-starred Italian Chef Andrea Berton, who curates the offerings for Living lounge, Scena restaurant and Etereo skybar and restaurant, while celebrated Chef Haruo Ichikawa, the first Japanese chef to earn a Michelin star in Italy, oversees the Japanese cuisine of Odachi restaurant.

At the heart of the hotel lies Scena, a fine-dining Italian restaurant focused on authentic and innovative Italian and Milanese cuisine. Here, executive chef Francesco Bonato offers timeless dishes paired with a selection of wines that range from the great Maisons to refined and niche labels.

On the eighth and top floor of the hotel, Etereo skybar and restaurant offers magnificent 360-degree view over Milan – spanning from the Duomo to the Galleria, and from the Castle to Porta Nuova. It also features a spectacular rooftop outdoor pool and terrace area with sun beds, sofas, and umbrellas.

Stay in style: guest rooms and suites

The hotel’s101 guest rooms and 15 suites reflect the spirit of Milanese art, culture, and design, seamlessly combining timeless elegance with contemporary touches.

The selected materials include walnut wood, Fior di Pesco marble, backlit brass and printed glass.

The Deluxe and Premiere rooms feature modular Poliform furniture, cozy seating, and custom artworks with a smooth continuity between the sleeping area and the bathroom. For those seeking both an indoor and outside layout, the Studio with Balcony offers a stylish accommodation, with the option for interconnecting rooms.

Details like green ceramic mushroom lamps, geometric wool rugs, Poliform seating, and terracotta vases, all contribute to the eye-catching Italian aesthetic. Furnished with a balcony or terrace, each Junior Suite includes a modular corner sofa and mirror-topped drink bar, providing prime time for leisure.

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

Marriott has expanded its luxury all-inclusive portfolio

February 3, 2025 No Comments

Marriott International has announced the ongoing expansion of its luxury all-inclusive properties under the All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, redefining the all-inclusive concept and expanding interest to luxury consumers.

Following the successful debut of Marriott’s first luxury all-inclusive resort, Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection Resort in the Dominican Republic, the growth continues with the recent additions of Almare and Paraiso de la Bonita, both part of The Luxury Collection in Mexico. Additionally, the highly anticipated W Punta Cana is set to open soon in the Dominican Republic.

Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Isla Mujeres, Adult All-Inclusive

This stunning adults-only retreat with 109 suites, located on the pristine shores of Isla Mujeres, Mexico, represents Marriott’s commitment to elevating the all-inclusive experience. As Marriott’s first luxury all-inclusive resort in Mexico, Almare, which opened last October, offers guests an idyllic escape with unparalleled luxury and service. Guests can indulge in several culinary outlets like Seasalt, The Breeze, and BOGA; and unwind at Alma Spa for intimate wellness treatments.

Paraiso de la Bonita, a Luxury Collection Resort, Riviera Maya, Adult All-Inclusive

This fully renovated 100 keys resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico, just joined Marriott’s esteemed Luxury Collection on January 30. Paraiso de la Bonita promises to deliver a boutique, sophisticated, and immersive experience, further solidifying Marriott’s presence in the high-demand luxury all-inclusive market and increasing its footprint even more in the Cancun area.

World-class dining, exclusive wellness moments, and a serene atmosphere that fosters a deep connection with the pristine white sands, lush mangrove ecosystem and turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean

W Punta Cana, Adult All-Inclusive

Set to debut in Spring 2025, this vibrant resort in the Dominican Republic will be the first to introduce the iconic W Hotels’ bold design and dynamic energy to the all-inclusive space.

Guests can anticipate a unique blend of luxury and excitement, featuring music-driven activations, diverse culinary offerings, and rejuvenating moments at the AWAY Spa. With 340 suites, all featuring one or two king beds, a low-density design, and a no lines, no reservations policy, W Punta Cana promises to be a groundbreaking must-visit destination.

Future integrations

Marriott International plans to integrate its prestigious luxury brands, JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton, into its dedicated all-inclusive portfolio.

Noteworthy additions include the upcoming JW Marriott All-Inclusive in Costa Mujeres, Mexico, and the JW Marriott in Maricá, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This strategic initiative aims to provide guests with an even broader array of high-quality, diverse stays, solidifying Marriott’s leadership in the luxury all-inclusive market.

For more information, please visit All-Inclusive by Marrriott Bonvoy.