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

July 8, 2024 No Comments

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

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

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

For peat's sake

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

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

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

Deep relaxation starts here

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

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

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

The epitome of luxury

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

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

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

Coastal Peruvian resort 3 hours from Lima opens under Hyatt brand

July 5, 2024 No Comments

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

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

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

Guestrooms with a view

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

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

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

For more information on the Legend Paracas, click here. 

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts unveils beachfront property in Oman, Jordan

June 26, 2024 No Comments

 St. Regis Hotels & Resorts have announced the highly anticipated opening of  The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, marking the debut of the brand in Oman.

Blending local heritage, avant-garde design and the timeless glamour of the St. Regis brand, the resort, developed by Alfardan Group, introduces the signature hallmarks born at New York’s finest address of Fifth Avenue and 55th Street, to the region’s luminaries.

Located in the heart of Al Mouj, one of Oman’s most exclusive neighbourhoods known for its luxurious beachfront living, the exquisite resort is a gateway to the captivating cultural wonders of Oman including the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Al Hajar Mountains, the natural pools of Wadi Shab, and the crystal water of Daymaniyat Islands.

About St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort

The resort is positioned on the tranquil shores of the Al Mouj waterfront with direct access to a secluded white sand beach and views across the adjacentgolf course.

The resort’s curved superyacht-style architecture draws inspiration from the surrounding environment and features a unique wave design. A soothing palette of oceanic tones imbued with rich tan and local natural stone set the tone for the design, a nod to Oman’s landscape. Elegant décor accented with patterned screens and textured fabrics flow through the public spaces.

The resort showcases an artwork collection with pieces from renowned Omani artists including Anwar Sonya, Alia Al Farsi, Sami Al Syabi, Hassan Meer, Budoor Al Riyami and calligraphy expert Fahad Al Balushi, alongside prominent international artists including Arne Quinze, Barnaby Barford, Lorenzo Quinn, Zhuang Hong Yi and Rana Begum.  

The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort features 250 lavishly appointed guestrooms and suites including one-to-three-bedroom duplexes, offering expansive ocean, golf course or city views. Guestrooms feature private balconies, walk-in wardrobes, large bathrooms and luxurious amenities and are filled with natural light by floor-to-ceiling windows. The legendary St. Regis Butler Service, a personalised hallmark of the brand for more than a century, ensures that each guest’s individual preferences are anticipated at every turn. 

Captivating culinary spaces

A new vibrant destination in the capital, the resort presents exceptional culinary journeys through the nine distinct dining venues including internationally acclaimed and Michelin-starred concepts. 

Hakkasan serves modern Cantonese cuisine and world-class mixology. Fine-dining restaurant, Em Sherif, presents a meticulously crafted tribute to the art of Lebanese dining. Roberto’s serves contemporary seafood-inspired Italian cuisine. COYA embodies Latin American culture with authentic Peruvian cuisine and innovative Pisco drinks, while Novikov Café blends Mediterranean-inspired dishes with French, Italian, and Asian flavours using indigenous ingredients in a modern brasserie setting. Karibu serves a fusion of Zanzibari and Omani cuisine and Zorba offers a menu of Greek specialties.

The Lounge offers a quiet corner to enjoy a locally inspired take on the acclaimed signature St. Regis Afternoon Tea, while Sukkar offers a world of sweet desserts and delicacies. The Stage, inspired by the King Cole Bar at The St. Regis New York, features a curated menu of classic expertly crafted cocktails. The intimate space also features an expansive mural by Omani artist Hassan Meer, depicting the cultural hub, port city and historic site of Muttrah, the old town of Muscat. At sunset, the nightly St. Regis sabering ritual begins in The Stage to celebrate the transition from day to night, while live entertainment sets the tone for the night.  

A Bohemian hotel with 24 rooms opened on Türkiye’s Aegean coast

June 19, 2024 No Comments

Bobo by The Stay, the newest of the Stay Hotels, has now opened in Bodrum.

Perched high above the sparkling Aegean, Bobo offers guests ​​exclusive access to the turquoise waters of Cennet Bay, on the Turkish Riviera.

Bobo was designed by visionary architect Mahmut Anlar and his team at Geo ID. The hotel, tailored for adults, opens with 24 exclusive rooms and suites. Each has been designed with nature-inspired curved walls and floor-to-ceiling windows allowing breath-taking views of the surrounding coastline and centuries-old olive groves.

A nod to Bohemian living

True to its name, Bobo has been created to celebrate refined bohemian living, and offers a unique fusion of entertainment, gastronomy, and the arts.

Guests can look forward to a vibrant array of cultural and artistic events, including pop-up comedy festivals, guest chefs, and sunset parties throughout the summer. For those who enjoy nightlife, the hotel offers a private nightclub for guests to let their hair down to the beat of international DJs.

Taste the flavours of Türkiye

Bobo brings the flavours of Istanbul’s Bebek Hotel by the Stay to Bodrum, featuring locally sourced dishes, live music, and signature cocktails by the sea.

Dragon, famed for its stellar Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine in Istanbul, opens its second restaurant at Bobo, while the Greek-inspired Paraliaki restaurant creates menus focused on fresh seafood. As evening descends, guests are treated to an unforgettable dining experience.

With dishes created to celebrate the region’s rich maritime heritage and seating on grass or sand, guests can unwind in a laid-back atmosphere that captures the essence of Bobo living.

The hotel’s private beach club, Bobo Beach, features sun loungers on a secluded stretch of Cennet Bay, creating a perfect spot for relaxing and sampling gourmet dishes by the sea. The hotel also offers an exclusive yacht catering service for those who are exploring the beautiful waters of Cennet Bay.

In keeping with the relaxed coastal vibe, there’s an outside gym and holistic Stay Spa with saunas and rejuvenating ice baths overlooking the forested bay. The Bobo Store, a boutique housed in a domed tent, will offer beachwear, artisanal wares from local craftspeople, and Turkish brands that reflect the local Aegean culture.

For more information, visit www.thestay.com.tr.

Marriott’s Luxury Collection makes its grand debut in Munich

June 17, 2024 No Comments

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

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

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

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

A luxurious transformation

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

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

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

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

About the Koenigshof

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

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

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

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

 

An exquisite experience

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why does this hotel look like it’s made of giant Jenga blocks?

June 14, 2024 No Comments

While doing a lazy backstroke in the lagoon pool, my eyes gravitate to the constellation of lights reflected in the mirrored ceiling five storeys above.

All that’s on my mind is relaxation and the illuminated eye candy – not thoughts of hallmark sustainability, biophilic design, or carbon sequestering.

 

But, I will eventually wrap my head around all the eco coolness of this design hotel of all design hotels – the Pan Pacific Orchard in Singapore.

To be honest, my wife, Kerry, and I chose to stay at the Pan Pacific Orchard because it’s uniquely beautiful and luxurious, not because it has a bio-digester that transforms food waste into water that can be used for cleaning.

After all, the 23-storey, 347-room hotel, which opened in June 2023, is an architectural wonder resembling a tower constructed of giant Jenga blocks. Its most marvelous features are four, 22-metre-tall terraces scooped out of its vertical facade.

The second-floor Forest Terrace is for the open-air lobby and bar; the fifth-floor Beach Terrace for the lagoon pool; the 11th-floor Garden Terrace for the cabana lawn and patios of the Pacific Club Lounge and Florette Champagne & Oyster Bar; and the 18th-floor Cloud Terrace for the outdoor convention space.

Each guest room overlooks one of the terraces and the balcony of each room juts into the terrace’s air space.

“It creates four vertical, curated, themed and symmetrical ecosystems,” said Pan Pacific Orchard director of communications Teresa Koh as she showed my wife and I around.

“We’re very proud to be a luxury hotel that at its core is all about responsible sustainability.”

It doesn’t hurt that all this environmental consciousness is uber-chic and eye-catching.

The two exposed support columns either side of the hotel are covered in vines that are now creeping across the building and dripping from the terraces.

More than 100 other species of plants, shrubs and trees, including all those palms on the pool terrace, end up covering 300% of the hotel’s base land area in lush foliage. The greenery and the terrace’s designs result in self-shading, that aforementioned natural cross ventilation, carbon sequestering and air purification. Singapore-based WOHA Architects, a biophilic specialist, designed the hotel to be an iconic slice of nature in an otherwise largely concrete-and-glass megatropolis.

The Green Mark Platinum Certification was awarded for solar panels on the roof that power all common areas, collected rainwater keeping the terrace ecosystems lush, the previously mentioned bio digester and Swisspro water filtration systems in every room eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles.

All in all, it makes Pan Pacific Orchard the new prototype for high rise tropical hospitality.

Guest rooms are compact and well-designed with comfy beds and high-end linens and that balcony that juts out into the terrace air space. We lounge at the lagoon pool; sip signature cocktails called Cloud and Forest (in a nod to the terrace themes) at Florette; eat crispy pork at Mosella restaurant; and take breakfast, afternoon tea and happy hour in Pacific Club Lounge on the garden terrace.

Pan Pacific has 50 hotels and resorts in 30 cities in Asia, Europe and North America under the Pan Pacific, Parkroyal and Parkroyal Collection banners, including Pan Pacifics in Vancouver, Whistler and Toronto

In April, Air Canada started flying four times a week between Vancouver and Singapore, the only non-stops connecting Canada with the multicultural, Asian city state of six million people. In fact, it’s the longest flight Air Canada operates at 16 hours and 10 minutes Vancouver-Singapore. One-way fares on the quick, quiet and comfortable Boeing Dreamliner 787 start at $734.

Hotel rates for Pan Orchard start at around SG$440.

For more information, visit www.aircanada.com and www.panpacific.com.

—STORY BY: STEVE MACNAULL

Hyatt is bringing new luxury hot spring brand ATONA to Japan

May 27, 2024 No Comments

Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Kiraku, Inc. are opening properties in Yufu, Yakushima, and Hakone under the modern hot spring ryokan (Japanese-style inn) brand, ATONA.

The ATONA brand was announced in 2022 under a joint venture between a Hyatt affiliate and Kiraku, a Japanese company dedicated to preserving valuable assets for future generations. The first ATONA ryokans are slated to open in 2026 across some of Japan’s top hot spring destinations and areas of natural beauty.

“Hyatt is a leading global hospitality company that is synonymous with elevated contemporary luxury. Aside from reaching valuable guests through World of Hyatt, the industry’s fastest growing loyalty program, this collaboration enables us to leverage Hyatt’s global expertise to deliver high operational efficiency and exceptional guest experience and focus on long-term capital appreciation and substantial investor returns,” said Kou Sundberg, founder and chief executive officer of Kiraku. “We are delighted to have identified prime locations for the first ATONA ryokans and successfully secured funding for the Atona Impact Fund. Having already partnered with Takenaka Corporation to restore a heritage sake brewery in Nagano, we are excited to expand our collaboration with more regional revitalization projects.”

“Through the ATONA brand, we look forward to introducing Japan’s hot springs and new destinations to our World of Hyatt members, and international and domestic travellers alike. With Kiraku’s expertise in deal sourcing, asset management and business development, the ATONA brand is poised to meet the rising demand for high-end ryokans,” said Sam Sakamura, Hyatt’s vice-president, Japan and Micronesia. “At Hyatt, we believe business is personal. We are excited to work with Kiraku and are grateful for the trust from Takenaka Corporation, with whom we have nurtured a long-standing relationship through various global projects, as we introduce fresh hospitality experiences to Japan.”

Hotels.com has a new program that lets you browse top 1%

May 13, 2024 No Comments

Hotels.com has unveiled “Perfect Somewheres” 2024, a first-of-its-kind program celebrating a selection of the top 1% of hotels on the Hotels.com app.

Unlike other travel awards, Hotels.com Perfect Somewheres are based on a data-driven approach evaluating how hotels treat guests, with nearly 200 American hotels recognized on the list. Winning hotels were selected based on proprietary guest experience data, which factors in traveler reviews, interactions with staff and ratings on property facilities, and condition.

Select winning hotels are VIP Access partners, meaning they offer additional perks to members to elevate traveler stays.

Travellers should use this curated list as the go-to authority when searching for the best possible hotel experience.

“Perfect Somewheres 2024 recognizes the hotel industry’s creme de la creme,” said Expedia Group’s SVP of global communications, Lauri Metrose. “Most programs use only reviews, or focus solely on luxury — our new awards program spotlights hotels that craft extraordinary experiences and elevate the travel journey for our guests, regardless of the number of stars. This program fuels a powerful partnership: We showcase our partners’ excellence, and together, we connect travellers with their perfect somewhere. We look forward to these awards becoming a benchmark for excellence in hospitality.”

Narrowing down the choice

Research conducted by Hotels.com found that more than half (55%) of travellers admit to suffering from “vacation choice paralysis,” caused by too many options when deciding where to stay.

A quarter (27%) spend more than 10 hours researching which hotel to stay at, and 28% have given up altogether due to how time-consuming it became. Hotels.com’s awards aim to solve this issue for travelers.

Almost half (49%) of travelers are more likely, now than ever before, to use a credible hotel-grading program to source their stays. This list from the top 1% of properties acts as a one-stop shop for Hotels.com’s best properties across the globe.

Standout stays for 2024

From hidden gems to world-renowned destinations, these hotels are just a few properties representing the 700 that display the pinnacle of hospitality excellence across the globe in 2024:

Hotel Chapter Roma in Rome, Italy takes service above and beyond. The hotel offers services like a bespoke night out hosted by a nightlight editor, local market trips and dietary-friendly cooking lessons with their executive chef. Their services establish the hotel as an essential part of a guest’s experience in Rome, even upon return visits.

The Palmaïa House of Aïa in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico takes every angle of wellness into account at this all-inclusive retreat, including custom built nutrition plans, breath work classes, sauna/ice bath contrast therapy, yoga and meditation classes, energy healing and reiki, and an onsite shaman for ceremonies and spiritual wellness.

Four Seasons Resort Koh Sumai in Koh Sumai, Thailand not only is set to be one of the filming locations for the newest season of “”The White Lotus, but this hotel’s beautiful beaches are about to be a prime destination for set-jetters. The hotel offers every kind of beach activity and provides easy access to nearby diving reefs.

Hotel das Cataratas in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil with the perfect view as it is the only hotel within the Iguaza Falls National Park. While all other park visitors must adhere to the strict 9-5 opening hours, hotel guests get up to six additional hours of freedom to explore as well as private views of the falls from the property.

Ohla Barcelona in the historical center of Barcelona, Spain has an experience team that contacts guests before their arrival to offer them a menu of sheets, pillows of varying firmness, and bedding scents for free. Additional services include a bath butler and personal shopper.

Fingal – A Luxury Floating Hotel, located on Edinburgh’s waterfront in Scotland, this former lighthouse tender is now a 22-cabin boutique floating hotel. Its renovations have preserved historical design details from 1963, making it a destination for vessel-heads.

The Prospect Hollywood in Los Angeles, California, United States, where each Martyn Lawrence Bullard designed room was inspired by the property’s Hollywood history and former neighborhood residents. Bullard brings each room to new life with a Hollywood Regency foundation incorporating custom furnishings and vintage accents.

To book or browse the full list of Perfect Somewheres, click here.

Four Seasons Toronto shows off newly-refurbished suites

May 10, 2024 No Comments

Four Seasons Hotel Toronto announces the completion of an extensive, multimillion dollar guest room renovation, enhancing the luxury experience for its guests from around the world.

With a focus on elevating comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, the redesign encompasses all 259 guest rooms including 42 suites within the hotel.

The importance of maintaining the Hotel’s distinct architectural character was paramount, and the refresh introduced many enhancements while respecting the existing design framework. Every aspect of the rooms and suites has been meticulously reconsidered, from carpets to furnishings, lighting to artwork. All furniture has been designed and manufactured in Canada, utilizing local artisans and fabrics throughout the rooms.

Thoughtful guest amenities

Adding to the allure of the newly redesigned spaces are several thoughtful additions.

Guests now enjoy programmable temperature control kettles by Corvo, Nespresso machines, press steamers in every room, and exclusive wine labels sourced from the nearby Niagara wine region.

Technological upgrades include a new dimmable, LED and energy efficient Lutron lighting system, automated drapes, and increased power outlets throughout the rooms. Wireless chargers are available at each nightstand, ensuring convenience and connectivity for modern travellers.

In the suites, guests may enjoy a seasonally updated Manhattan cocktail kit featuring house made ingredients including infused Canadian Rye, vermouth and bitters curated by our Four Seasons mixologists with the flavours of the season.  

In addition to the guest rooms and suites, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto has previously renovated public spaces ensuring a cohesive and seamlessly updated guest experience throughout the property. With the completion of this renovation project, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto reaffirms its commitment to providing unparalleled luxury and hospitality, inviting guests to indulge in a refined retreat amid the vibrant heart of Toronto.

Four Seasons Hotel Toronto is offering up to CAD 400 per stay in Hotel credit with the Experience More package. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.fourseasons.com/toronto.

Hyatt is opening more than 30 hotels in Latin America

May 8, 2024 No Comments

World of Hyatt guests and members will soon have more than 30 new hotels to consider in Latin America & the Caribbean.

Through 2027, Hyatt is committed to expanding its brand presence in new and exciting destinations throughout the region.

The Destination by Hyatt brand is a diverse collection of independent hotels, resorts and residences that offers one-of-a-kind experiences around the globe with stays that are authentic to their destination.

The brand is expanding its footprint in Latin America & the Caribbean with the introduction of properties in two new markets:

  • The Legend Paracas Resort (Peru, expected to open in summer 2024): The resort, located on the coast of Peru about three hours south of Lima, is expected to join the Destination by Hyatt brand this summer amid a phased enhancement project focused on elevating guestrooms and common areas. Guests will have endless opportunities to discover the Paracas Natural Reserve or Paracas Bay with a range of curated experiences such as kayaking, paddleboarding, sandboarding, and more.
  • Cas En Bas Beach Resort (St. Lucia, expected to open in early 2025): Nestled on the northern tip of St. Lucia, and idyllically situated between two 18-hole championship golf courses and a stunning white sand beach, the resort will provide a secluded, elevated luxury escape. The resort is expected to open in early 2025 with contemporary residential-style studios, and one- and two-bedroom suites.

With 10 all-inclusive brands providing endless hospitality through well-appointed accommodations, exceptional service, gourmet a la carte dining, and thoughtful touches, Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection portfolio continues to expand in new and existing destinations throughout Mexico and the Caribbean in 2023 and 2024.

New hotels coming soon

Dreams Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino adults-only expansion (expected to debut 2024): Expected to debut on July 1, Dreams Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino will open an all-new adult-only preferred club section to complement the existing family-friendly offerings. The 53 modern-designed standalone units, titled ‘IL MARE’, embrace next-generation architecture with modern interior design to create a first-of-its-kind luxury beachfront experience overlooking Piscadera Bay, with amenities such as thoughtfully appointed custom crafted furniture, a bathroom with two vanities, an indoor sitting area, and an oversized oceanfront terrace with direct beach access.

Dreams Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort family-friendly expansion (expected to open in summer 2024): Located adjacent to the existing Dreams Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort, this new section will add 58 additional rooms, a new restaurant, and three new pools, including a dedicated pool for children with a pirate ship, a pool with water slides, and an adults-only pool.

Dreams Sapphire Resort & Spa family-friendly expansion (expected to open in 2024): The new expansion of this resort will add new private luxury villas and a new event space, dining experiences and separate building that will feature a rooftop with breathtaking views, a bar, sushi bar, infinity pool and venue to host memorable weddings, along with premium room categories.

Secrets Playa Esmeralda Punta Cana (expected to open in 2024): Designed with the adults-only concept in mind, this intimate resort will feature nine gourmet dining options, including six à la carte restaurants, a buffet, a cafe, a grill by the pool, beach, and a private lounge for Preferred Club guests.

Dreams Playa Esmeralda Punta Cana (expected to open in 2024): The family-friendly resort will offer nine restaurants, three snack bars, an ice cream parlor as well as its own Preferred Club lounge, an Explorer’s Club for Kids with activities for children ages 3-12, a Core Zone Teens Club with entertainment for teens ages 13-17, and a water park.

Secrets Baby Beach Aruba (expected to open in 2025): This adults-only resort will mark Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection debut to the island of Aruba. Situated alongside Baby Beach, a popular white-sand lagoon in the southern part of the island close to San Nicolas, this new resort will boast architecture that blends with the landscape, offering stunning views of the region.

Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa (expected to open in 2025): Just minutes from the world-class Rodney Bay Marina, Cap Estate Golf Course, and capital city of Castries, guests will enjoy a stunning view of dramatically tapered mountains, volcanic beaches, reef-diving sites, fishing village and more at this new adults-only property.

Breathless Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa (expected to open in 2025): Situated in a secluded zone just 10 minutes from Puerto Vallarta International Airport, the resort will be a prime destination for adults-only guests, featuring impressive amenities, including four swimming pools, a scenic rooftop with picturesque views, a variety of culinary options and more.

For more information, visit hyatt.com.