Six of the hottest new hotels to check out—and into— for April

April 3, 2024 No Comments

Sunnier times are ahead, and what better way to welcome spring (and look forward to summer) than dreaming up your next holiday.

Fortunately, we’ve sought out some of the hottest new hotels to kickstart your planning – from a ruggedly handsome Aegean retreat to a reimagined Roman palace.

 

Nomad Mykonos

MYKONOS, GREECE

A hillside hideout far from the Mykonos crowds, this Cycladic sanctuary promises soothing whitewashed rooms, private pools and hot tubs, and sun-drenched terraces with Aegean views.

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Palazzo Talìa

ROME, ITALY

A short stroll from the iconic Piazza di Spagna and Trevi Fountain, this muse-inspired palazzo is divinely decorated inside and out and boasts a heavenly spa with an experiential pool.

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Norman Hotel

PARIS, FRANCE

Named after American graphic artist Norman Ives, the abstract interiors and jazzy atmosphere hits all the right notes – and some rooms have views of the Eiffel Tower rising above the rooftops.

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Capitolo Riviera

GENOA, ITALY

Sandwiched between sublime gardens and the Ligurian shoreline, every room and suite at this glitzy Riviera retreat has sparkling sea views – with the treasures of Portofino and Cinque Terre within easy reach.

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Lanson Place Causeway Bay

HONG KONG, HONG KONG SAR

Set within the buzz of Hong Kong’s iconic Causeway Bay, Lanson Place feels a world apart, with an in-room curated pillow menu, calming spa music and soothing essential oils to help you unwind.

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Todos Santos Boutique Hotel

TODOS SANTOS, MEXICO

Nestled in the old town of a Mexican ‘Pueblo Mágico’, a Spanish countess once lived within these mural-adorned walls. Now, there’s a rooftop terrace to kick back on, and plunge pools to cool off in.

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A Four Seasons resort is coming to Los Cabos this May

March 11, 2024 No Comments

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol is open for reservations and will begin welcoming guests as of May 1, 2024.

Ideally located on the southern coast of the Baja in the heart of the Los Cabos Golden Corridor, the luxury resort community of Cabo Del Sol is home to a vibrant, Riviera-style village that includes the new Four Seasons Resort and Residences.

About the property

The resort offers 96 expansive guest rooms, casitas, suites, and villas plus 61 residences, villas, and estates ranging from 79 square metres (847 square feet) to 590 square metres (6374 square feet) – all with sparkling views of the Sea of Cortez, where whales visit annually November to April.

With clean lines and open, airy spaces, the architecture and design seamlessly blend traditional Mexican influences with contemporary luxury. All accommodations feature retractable glass doors that bring the outdoors in, as well as private terraces. Many suites also include private plunge pools and outdoor showers.

Just 30 minutes from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) and 15 minutes from Cabo San Lucas International Airport (CSL), Four Seasons Resort Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol is mere minutes away from Cabo’s famous shopping, dining, nightlife and sightseeing.

On property, guests will enjoy a swimmable beach ideal for snorkelling and water activities, three pools, three restaurant and five bar options, the on-site El Taller Artisan Art Studio, the full-service Tierra Mar Spa with fitness centre designed by celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak, Baja 360° Adventure centre, Papalote Kids For All Seasons, locally-driven retail experiences, a clubhouse-style wedding and event facility, and access to the Cabo Del Sol golf course.

For more information on Four Seasons Cabo San Lucas, click here.

Winter Haven Miami Beach shows off new art deco rooms

February 26, 2024 No Comments

Winter Haven Hotel Miami Beach, an iconic 70-room Art Deco boutique hotel, ideally located along Ocean Drive, has unveiled a renovation with fully re-imagined guest rooms.

The newly revamped hotel exudes retro charm and classic elegance, drawing inspiration from the 50s-style representation of leisure destinations and its iconic oceanfront location. Elevated by a warm palette with a predominance of pink and aqua colors inspired by the ocean and its corals, the hotel gracefully whisks guests away to an enduring haven of comfort and sophistication. 

About Winter Haven Miami Beach

Winter Haven Miami Beach features thoughtful room amenities, including cozy bathrobes, an in-room honour bar, Lavazza espresso machines, Malin + Goetz bathroom amenities and high-speed Wi-Fi.

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with a complimentary glass of Prosecco. They are welcome to rejuvenate the senses with exclusive special pricing at K’Alma Spa, where relaxation takes on a new meaning amid soothing treatments and a tranquil ambiance. Daily passes are included with access to wellness perks like the exclusive off-site gym, Gymage, where every workout becomes an invigorating journey. 

Guests are invited to soak up the sun on the rooftop terrace, sip cocktails in the sophisticated lobby bar, enjoy a bike ride on a complimentary bike or take a leisurely stroll through Lummus Park to the sand, where two beach chairs await. Whether exploring the local art, dining, shopping, and nightlife scenes or simply relaxing at the hotel, this is Miami Beach at its finest.

Winter Haven Hotel Miami Beach’s culinary gem, Il Bolognese, seamlessly delivers the essence of the best in Italian and Bolognese cuisine, offering guests a journey to Italy through authentic flavors without ever leaving the shores of Miami Beach. All hotel guests enjoy exclusive special deals on all menu items at Il Bolognese. Guests also have the option to savor the delicious dishes from the comfort of their room with the hotel’s in-room dining service.

For additional information about Winter Haven Hotel Miami Beach or to book your stay, visit winterhavenhotelsobe.com.

Mid-century modern inspired hotel opens in the heart of Houston

February 16, 2024 No Comments

Hyatt officially opened the Thompson Houston, Houston’s newest luxury lifestyle hotel offering a distinctive guest experience that celebrates the individuality of Space City overlooking the verdant Buffalo Bayou Park.

Set against the backdrop of rare unobstructed views of downtown Houston’s skyline, the hotel captures the vibrancy of the city with an unapologetically stylish design signature to the brand, a stunning spa sanctuary, world-class dining, and elevated spaces perfect for weddings and events.

Thompson Houston features 172 guestrooms, including 34 suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a residential feel designed to evoke the spirit of old Texas, with entirely custom-made furnishings and spacious en-suite bathrooms with marble vanities and custom wall treatments and tiling.

About Thompson Houston

The new-build hotel is housed within a sleek glass and exposed-steel building that displays curved lines designed by award-winning architect, HOK.  Interiors are designed by Houston-based architecture and design firm Abel Design Group featuring warm earthy colors, organic materials, brass fixtures, and hardwood floors paying homage to the hotel’s natural setting of nearby Buffalo Bayou Park.

Located on the seventh floor, the mid-century modern-styled lobby in the sky captures the spirit of Houston with an edgy spirit and sophisticated yet familiar contemporary design.

Thompson Houston offers one of the city’s largest outdoor rooftops, with a custom-tiled infinity pool boarded by cabanas, and a 2,500-square-foot greenspace, both providing views of downtown and creating an idyllic setting for outdoor weddings and events.

Additional hotel amenities include:

  • The hotel’s sixth floor is dedicated to the full-service Thompson Spa, featuring six treatment suites, indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, saunas, a salon, and a state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness centre.
  • Sol 7 is Thompson Houston’s signature all day dining restaurant located off the lobby, featuring rooftop seating where guests can enjoy creative cocktails and seasonal fare.
  • Opening soon are two additional restaurants operated by TableOne Hospitality: Chardon, a French brasserie that will debut in summer 2024, and Buck 40, an upscale supper club slated to open in fall 2024.
  • Thompson Houston is home to the first brick-and-mortar outpost of local coffee company, Maven Coffee Company, offering specialty coffees, pastries, and coffee-based cocktails.
  • More than 17,000 square feet of meticulously designed flexible indoor and outdoor event space to accommodate groups of up to 800 people.

Thompson Houston marks the fourth Thompson Hotels’ property in Texas, joining Thompson Austin, Thompson Dallas and Thompson San Antonio -Riverwalk, and is the 19th Thompson Hotels property globally.

For more information, visit www.thompsonhoustonhotel.com.

Five-star luxury hotel will transform Toronto’s skyline

January 31, 2024 No Comments

An $800 million-dollar skyscraper is set to debut at Adelaide and Duncan streets in Toronto.

Dreamed up by real estate developer Peter Freed of Freed Developments, the first-ever Freed Hotel and Residences tower will bring both Katsuya by Sam Nazarian’s Disruptive Group by sbe and artwork by renowned Japanese artist Takashi Murakami to Toronto. 

Designed by Chicago-based tall building experts Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, renowned for the next world’s tallest and most luxurious skyscraper Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia, as well as  Central Park Tower in New York, the project will feature 100 five-star luxury hotel rooms and 400 luxury condominiums with a world class Skybar/restaurant on the 63rd floor, boutique spa, and a 10,000 sq ft Katsuya Restaurant on the 2nd floor.

 

Key features & design elements

Key features of the Freed Hotel and Residences project include:

  • Freed Hotel Debut: Freed Hotel and Residences marks the introduction of the first-ever Freed hotel in Canada, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, style, and sophistication through hotel-style living.
  • Multi-Functional Tower: The project will feature 100 luxury hotel rooms and 400 luxury condominiums with a world class Skybar/restaurant on the 63rd floor.
  • Katsuya, Contemporary Japanese Restaurant: The hotel will house the exquisite Katsuya Japanese restaurant by Sam Nazarian’s Disruptive Group by sbe on the second floor.
  • Takashi Murakami Art Integration: Takashi Murakami will bring forward his famous artwork, “Together with the flower parent and child,” that will be featured prominently inside the lobby of the first-ever Freed Hotel and Residences.
  • Amenities include: 62nd floor Sky Lobby with grand staircase leading to 63rd floor restaurant and bar featuring 70 ft tall space below a sloping skylight, boutique spa, terrace and outdoor garden, private spaces for entertaining and dining, fitness and yoga studio, private theater room, valet parking and full-service concierge, and more.

The Freed Hotel and Residences is scheduled to begin sales in March 2024 and will be located at 240 Adelaide Street West. 

Potential buyers can expect a diverse range of units ranging from 270 sq.ft. to over 9,800 sq.ft. For further information on Freed Developments, click here. 

Luxury beach hotel debuts in iconic Costa Rican surf town

January 29, 2024 No Comments

Silvestre Nosara Hotel & Residences, a sustainable, luxury hideaway with beach access, opened Feb. 1 in Playa Guiones, Nosara, Costa Rica– bringing a new level of luxury to the iconic surf town.

Silvestre Nosara features just nine expansive residences; rooftop pool, bar and lounge; elevated family-friendly amenities; onsite surf school and studio set to host wellness sessions and a world-class speaker series.

About the property

Set on the iconic Playa Guiones, the property seamlessly blends luxury, connection and learning, steps away from Nosara’s restaurants, shops, bars, yoga studios and a surf break renowned for pristine waves 330 days a year.

The design-forward property reflects a commitment to sustainability through careful design, water conservation, insulation, and energy efficiency.

For more information, visit www.silvestre.cr.

A 507-room adults-only resort just opened in the Mexican Caribbean

January 26, 2024 No Comments

Hyatt Hotels recently opened the Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres in Mexico.

Part of the Inclusive Collection, the 507-room, adults-only resort further strengthens Hyatt’s leisure portfolio throughout the Mexican Caribbean, with continued growth expected throughout 2024.

Situated along the oceanfront coast, guests can choose to stay on property or explore the town, with only a short ferry ride to the nearby island of Isla Mujeres or Isla Contoy National Park.

Also within close proximity is the Playa Mujeres Golf Course, a Greg Norman signature 18-hole course with exceptional ocean and tropical views, as well as the Puerto Cancun Shopping Centre.

Opening in a three-phased approach over the next six months, guests can expect the spa, fitness center, and theatre to be fully operational by June of 2024.

Luxurious accommodations

Placing an emphasis on thoughtful architecture, suites are designed in a staggered configuration to showcase the breathtaking views the resort provides including landscape, serene pools, and the Caribbean Sea.

All guests will enjoy Unlimited-Luxury inclusions such as 24-hour room service, daily refreshed in-room mini bar, endless daytime and nighttime entertainment, pool and beach wait service, and more. For guests looking for an elevated stay, Preferred Club accommodations provide an extra level of luxury with elevated room categories including swim outs and a host of upgraded oceanfront suites, all touting an oversized soaking tub on the terrace, as well as upgraded amenities such as personalized check-in and checkout, upgraded mini bar and bath amenities, concierge services, and more.

Additionally, Preferred Club guests have exclusive access to the Preferred Club Lounge, an oceanfront Beach Bar, and an infinity pool.

Culinary offerings

Local and international cuisines take centre stage at Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres with nine dining establishments, including gluten-free and vegetarian menu options.

With options ranging from El Patio, offering a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine to traditional Japanese Tatami rooms serving handmade sushi and Pan-Asian cuisine, there is something for everyone to indulge in.

The Italian restaurant, Portofino, offers one of the most exclusive and extensive wine cellars with one of the largest wine selections in the destination.

Eight bars and lounges serving top-shelf spirits and premium brand domestic and international beverages offer guests the opportunity to socialize, while those looking for a varied and special dining experience can book an array of culinary experiences such as the Chef’s Table, tequila tasting, wine tasting, and romantic dinners for an additional cost.

To learn more about Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres, visit the resort’s website here.

Savoy Signature just opened a boutique hotel in Madeira

January 22, 2024 No Comments

The Reserve, an exclusive luxury hotel concept set within the renowned Savoy Palace in Madeira, Portugal. Opening its doors in December, The Reserve will redefine the meaning of luxury, delivering an unmatched experience where guests are immersed in a world of dedicated focus and distinctive hospitality. 

“The Reserve is the epitome of refinement and personalized service,” said Ricardo Madias-Farinha, chief commercial officer of Savoy Signature. “We have meticulously crafted every aspect of the experience to ensure our guests enjoy an unforgettable journey that exceeds their expectations. The Reserve is a sanctuary where attention to detail and individual desires are paramount, and we are excited to start welcoming our guests to this unparalleled haven of indulgence.” 

Brimming with nature, culture and history, Madeira is a gorgeous island located in the North Atlantic Ocean, closer to Africa than mainland Portugal. As a result of its unique geographical location, the destination enjoys sunnier, warmer temperatures.

Typically, most Canadians combine a visit to Madeira with a longer stay in popular parts of Portugal or additional destinations in Europe, as there are non-stop connections from more than 50 European gateways.

At The Reserve, every detail is carefully curated to create a truly exceptional stay. From the moment their booking is confirmed at this premier hideaway, they are connected with their own GEPA (The Reserve’s acronym for Guest Experience Personal Assistant), via Email and WhatsApp, which tailors and prepares the stay to the guests’ specific requests and requirements prior to arrival.

 

About The Reserve

To ensure a seamless visit, guests staying at The Reserve and Savoy Palace can enjoy the signature private car service (for an extra fee) upon their arrival and departure at Madeira International Airport, allowing for a smooth and hassle-free transition and being the perfect addition to the Meet & Greet service at the airport, which is complimentary to all guests at The Reserve on both arrival and departure.

Once guests arrive at the hotel, a dedicated private elevator will take them from the street-level lobby to the 16th floor of the Savoy Palace building where guests will find the Jacarandá Lounge & Club – the heart of The Reserve. Here guests will find a stunning rooftop pool, offering a panoramic view of Funchal, exclusive to The Reserve guests, which further enhances the already VIP experience. 

A suite escape

The Reserve presents an array of 40 elegantly appointed rooms designed to cater to various preferences.

The spacious pool suites offer a private sanctuary, with a personal terrace and very own plunge pool; while the deluxe rooms provide a cozy retreat with serene sea views of the breathtaking Funchal Bay.

Every suite is thoughtfully furnished with lavish bedding and contemporary amenities, assuring the highest degree of comfort and relaxation within an ambiance of unmatched privacy and luxury. The decor in the rooms consists of four different color palettes inspired by the colors and flora of the beautiful island of Madeira.

For more information about Savoy Signature and its hotel collection, click here. 

Checking out this week’s hottest new hotels and resorts

January 19, 2024 No Comments

Checking out the latest hotel and resort news from fresh renovations to brand new or upcoming properties to get excited about in 2024.

 

The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara

The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara in Zambia has revealed new Livingstone Junior Suites spanning 560 square feet. The classically furnished suites, which are accentuated with local designs, offer views of the Zambezi River. Set amid the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, the hotel offers clients unlimited access to Victoria Falls and is surrounded by savannah.

Nayara Gardens

Nayara Gardens in Costa Rica has completed a major transformation. The renovations at the first property by Nayara Resorts saw all accommodations levelled and rebuilt as Arenal Casitas with individual decks and plunge pools surrounded by rainforest. Also new is the resort pool and adjacent restaurant, a boutique selling artisan goods, the spa and an on-site family education centre. Notably, the property is a sloth sanctuary.

Guests at Nayara Gardens have full access to sister properties Nayara Springs and Nayara Tented Camp with their additional restaurants, bars, pools, hot springs, yoga pavilions. Since Nayara Springs is adults only, children must stay at Nayara Gardens and Nayara Tented Camp.

Club Med Cancun

Club Med Cancún is set to undergo significant renovations to its wellness and family spaces to create a premium offering. The improvements will see the addition of a sports & wellness island with a yoga palapa plus facilities for archery, bocce ball, mini golf, multi-sport courts, and the Circus School by Club Med, set to be completed by April.

Meanwhile, a dedicated Family Oasis and Children’s Clubs will be located next to the pickleball courts and Aguamarina family section, which features family suites, a dedicated pool and kids bar, is set to be completed by December. The Kids Club with new play facilities like a themed splash park, water park, mini pool & playground is relocating next to the family section to minimize travel distance from family accommodations. Club Med Cancún will remain open throughout the renovations.

St. Regis Red Sea Resort

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is now open. The property Ummahat Island in the Al Wajh Lagoon is the first private island to open in The Red Sea.

Accessed by chartered boat or seaplane from the newly opened Red Sea International Airport, The St. Regis Red Sea Resort features a collection of 90 beachfront and overwater villas, offering one-to-four-bedroom accommodation, each with a private pool, sundeck and outdoor shower.

The luxury resort has five distinct culinary venues each offering alfresco beachside dining and serving produce sourced from local farms and fishermen. Restaurants include Gishiki 45, features an enticing Japanese-inspired menu, and Tilina, an overwater grill serving prime cuts infused with local spices and ingredients.

The resort offers a variety of fitness and wellness activities including a fully equipped gym, an outdoor lap pool and vitality pool, paddle and tennis courts, sunrise and sunset yoga, personal training sessions and nutritional consultations.

Six Senses Wadi Safar

Six Senses Wadi Safar is set to open in 2026 with a location 25 miles from Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport and 15 minutes northwest of the city. The property will feature 80 guest rooms spread across five clusters on top of a hill with panoramic views over the surrounding valley. 

This latest Six Senses project forms part of a 23-square-mile gated Wadi Safar community, a secluded, discreet, and peerless lifestyle destination for Saudi society and international visitors. Guest accommodations at Six Senses Wadi Safar will extend across 49 acres and the Six Senses Spa will feature treatment rooms, a hammam, a salon, a gym and studio, and a separate yoga studio.

From yoga programs, signature massages, and biohacking tools to multi-day retreats and brand standards such as Sleep With Six Senses and Eat With Six Senses, there will be a variety of offerings available to suit different interests.

This Valentine’s Day getaway in Saint Lucia will cost you $250,000

January 12, 2024 No Comments

This Valentine’s Day, Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences is taking over-the-top romance to new heights with a private charter to Saint Lucia from anywhere in the world. Couples will feel like they are on Cloud 9 as they jet set to one of the world’s most romantic islands.

This excusive Valentine’s Day on Cloud 9 Package begins with a personalized private charter experience on Planet 9 Private Air, that includes a customized culinary presentation, over-the-top luxury amenities, and even a few surprises along the way, as couples relax aboard their very own private luxury jet.

Lovers will be swept away to the luxurious Windjammer Landing for an all-inclusive stay in a two-bedroom Ocean Point Residence with private infinity pool, breathtaking views, and a dedicated 24/7 personal butler. 

This once in a lifetime romantic getaway will include a personalized itinerary with both exhilarating and relaxing experiences such as an island helicopter tour, candlelit dinner, private yacht excursion, in-villa spa retreat, and other VIP island experiences! 

To celebrate the milestone, couples will take home a personalized gift of diamond jewelry, along with photos and videos from a dedicated photographer who will capture every moment on camera to remember the experience for years to come. 

About the package

Valentine’s Day on Cloud 9 Package includes the following treats, ensuring the ultimate dream getaway experience.

  • Private jet charter with Planet 9: The journey begins with a seamless arrival via a private jet from anywhere worldwide, ensuring a lavish start to the ultimate romantic getaway.
  • S-night stay in an Ocean Point Residence: Guests will feel at home in a newly built Ocean Point Residence featuring a private infinity pool, breathtaking views of Labrelotte Bay, a full kitchen, and a dedicated 24/7 personal butler.
  • Luxury all-inclusive experience: Indulge in unlimited food & drinks at seven restaurants and four bars, luxury spirits and wines by the glass, access to motorized and non-motorized water sports, and more.
  • Island Helicopter Tour: Soar above Saint Lucia in a private helicopter tour, exploring hidden gems and capturing the scenic beauty from the sky.
  • Candlelit Cliffside Dinner: Delight in an intimate dinner perched on a cliffside, surrounded by the gentle sounds of the ocean and a private concert, with a personalized menu curated by Windjammer Landing’s world-renowned chefs.
  • Private Yacht Expedition: Set sail on a private yacht, complete with a gourmet chef, personal crew, and a sunset cruise to see the world-famous Pitons, one of the most secluded and romantic spots in the Caribbean.
  • Exclusive In-Villa Spa Retreat: Indulge in a day of pure bliss at Windjammer Landing’s award-winning spa with couples massages, rejuvenating facials, and a hand-crafted bath soak experience.
  • VIP Island Excursions: Experience VIP access to the best events, attractions, and excursions on the island, tailored for couples to create a truly unforgettable adventure. 
  • Diamond Jewelry Gift: Each couple will receive a bespoke piece of diamond jewelry, adding a touch of elegance to symbolize the eternal bond of their love.
  • Personalized Photography and Videography: A dedicated team of photographers will capture every moment of the romantic getaway to ensure couples’ leave with memories that will last a lifetime.

Starting at $250,000 USD, this extraordinary package promises an unrivaled blend of opulence, romance, luxury, and personalized adventure at the Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences.

Travel must be booked by Feb. 1, 2024. Reservations can be made by calling the resort directly at 1-877-522-0722 or email reservations@windjammer-landing.com