Italian masterpiece Casa Brera debuts in Milan with Michelin chefs

February 5, 2025

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

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.

St. Regis Aruba Resort opens on Palm Beach Coast

January 24, 2025

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts has opened The St. Regis Aruba Resort, a seafront oasis designed by Hirsch Bender Associates.

As part of Marriott International’s distinguished luxury portfolio, the resort epitomizes the brand’s rich heritage and signature rituals, offering an exclusive escape on Aruba’s most coveted coastline. This resort elevates the island’s hospitality scene with its refined elegance, featuring the first-ever St. Regis casino and a rooftop dining destination helmed by acclaimed Chef Akira Back.

Taking inspiration from the island’s powdery white beaches, cultural richness, and Casibari Rock Formations, guests are invited to experience the colonial architecture and colorful areas inspired by the island’s streets, guiding visitors to the best address on-island. The newly built resort presents 252 exquisite guestrooms, including 52 suites personalized to guest’s needs.

About St. Regis Aruba Resort

The resort offers guests six distinctive culinary experiences, celebrating the exotic flavors of Aruba’s multicultural heritage. Showcasing the island’s vibrant culinary fusion, these venues introduce innovative signature dishes to the gastronomic scene.

At the heart of the dining offerings is the rooftop restaurant, Akira Back, by Michelin-starred Chef Akira Back, where guests can savor his acclaimed Japanese and Korean-inspired creations while enjoying breathtaking views—a harmonious blend of exceptional flavors and stunning vistas. The St. Regis Aruba Resort’s additional dining experiences include Eskama, an immersive Caribbean restaurant, and Nuba, an Aruban-inspired pool and beachside restaurant. In addition to the property’s restaurants, The St. Regis Aruba Resort will feature two bars, The St. Regis Bar and Ventura, and a coffee shop, Grano Café.

The resort offers an array of world-class amenities designed for relaxation and indulgence. Guests can unwind at two exquisite pools with private cabanas, stay active in the state-of-the-art fitness center, or rejuvenate at The St. Regis Spa, which features curated treatments inspired by the island’s natural beauty. Younger guests are welcomed at The Children’s Club, where cultural and educational experiences bring Aruba’s rich heritage to life.

With the opening of The St. Regis Aruba Resort, the brand introduces its renowned luxury and signature service to the stunning shores of Palm Beach.

For more information, visit stregisarubaresort.com.

A list of all the new Four Seasons hotels opening soon

January 22, 2025

Four Seasons continues to execute its strategic growth across key global markets, expanding its iconic portfolio of hotels, resorts and residences while redefining experiential travel on land, at sea, and in the air.

This growth is anchored in an approach that blends heritage with innovation as the company thoughtfully expands its offerings to meet the evolving needs of today’s luxury travellers.

Four Seasons growth trajectory includes strategic expansion into key destinations, highlighted by landmark openings, exceptional restorations, and a robust development pipeline of over 60 projects worldwide. By 2033, Four Seasons plans to operate 180 properties globally, solidifying its position as the world’s largest operator of luxury properties under a single brand.

Four Seasons hotels opening soon

Recent and upcoming opening highlights for the years ahead include:

Americas

The recent reopening of the beloved Four Seasons Hotel New York took place at the end of 2024, with the highly anticipated return of Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara taking place in 2025. Also this year, the legendary Naples Beach Club will reopen as a Four Seasons experience; the thoughtful restoration of iconic 16th century landmarks in Cartagena will unveil a new property; and the company will also mark its debut in Puerto Rico, taking over management of an exquisite beachside property in Bahia Beach.

Looking ahead, guests can escape to overwater bungalows on a private island in Belize; retreat to the 95-key resort within a 24 hectare (60-acre) private estate in the Dominican Republic, the company’s first in the country; hit the slopes in Park City’s Deer Valley East Village in Utah; or enjoy the best of sports, entertainment and leisure in Jacksonville, Florida.

Europe

In Europe, Four Seasons will welcome new additions in Italy including the transformation of Venice’s historic Hotel Danieli and a new resort in Puglia; two new locations in Greece with resorts in Mykonos and Porto Heli; and the reopening of the renowned Park Gstaad into a Four Seasons experience.

Middle East and Africa

In the coming years, guests will be able to experience the luxury of Four Seasons at several dynamic properties in Saudi Arabia: in the heart of the ancient city of Madinah; with new resort offerings on Shura Island at The Red Sea, on Sindalah Island at NEOM, and at the relaxing AMAALA Triple Bay wellness resort; in Jeddah’s Corniche district; and in historic Diriyah. Four Seasons growth also continues across Egypt at two exceptional new properties in Luxor and Madinaty, New Cairo Capital; in Muscat, Oman; and in Tanzania with a new resort in Zanzibar.

Asia Pacific

Asia’s growth pipeline features exciting new projects for the years ahead, including on Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, Vietnam; a glistening new skyscraper in Taiwan; a new resort in Okinawa, Japan; expansion in Australia with a resort in Melbourne; and new openings in China including in Xi’an and the company’s highly anticipated return to Shanghai.

This hotel in Shanghai is home to the world’s largest indoor snow centre

January 10, 2025

IHG Hotels & Resorts has introduced Shanghai Snow World Hotel to its fast-growing Vignette Collection, a family of one-of-a-kind hotels in destinations to remember.

The property is now open within the Guinness World Records-certified “World’s Largest Indoor Ski Facility” – Shanghai L+SNOW Indoor Skiing Theme Resort – and has 272 rooms and 17 suites with direct access to more than 90,000 square meters of authentic indoor year-round snow.

Shanghai Snow World Hotel is the first new build Vignette Collection property in China and alongside Crowne Plaza Shanghai Snow is one of two IHG brands to open within the Shanghai L+SNOW Indoor Skiing Theme Resort development. Both hotels serve the rising demand for ‘ice and snow’ hospitality in China which continues to rise 38% year-on-year according to the China Tourism Academy.

About the Shanghai Snow World Hotel

Shanghai Snow World Hotel, Vignette Collection is a destination for year-round ski getaway inspired by the tranquility and invigorating spirit of the Nordic lifestyle.

Just 30km from Shanghai Disney and Pudong Airport, the hotel caterers to both skiing enthusiasts and snow seekers alike with fast-track access to ski slopes, indoor and outdoor water parks, and a tournament-level ice rink all within reach of its rooms.

Shanghai Snow World Hotel has four unique restaurants and bars, each serving a diverse variety of local delicacies and international flavors. Teppanyaki, located on the 18th floor, and The Peak on the top floor both boast panoramic views of the indoor winter wonderland.

 

The third-floor houses eight versatile meeting rooms ideal for corporate events and personal gatherings, complemented by a dynamic pre-function area fitting for hosting themed events.

For relaxation and fitness, guests have access to a state-of-the-art fitness centre and an indoor heated swimming pool.   

For more information and to book visit www.ihg.com/vignettecollection.

The Ritz-Carlton Bangkok is now open

December 30, 2024

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok is officially open, introducing a world-class hotel that offers unparalleled hospitality and immersive cultural experiences.

Part of the Luxury Group portfolio by Marriott International, the hotel is set in an alluring 216-meter-high tower at One Bangkok, the largest holistically integrated district and a world-class business and lifestyle destination in the heart of Bangkok.

Overlooking the serene lawns and lakes of Lumpini Park, this destination offers a refreshing retreat amidst the bustling energy of the city, transforming guest experiences through intuitive service and unforgettable moments.

About the Ritz-Carlton Bangkok

A seamless blend of classic Thai artistry and contemporary design, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok’s rooms and suites embody a spirit of cultural exchange. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views, while many guestrooms offer private loggias and terraces overlooking the lush expanse of Lumpini Park.

Guests are invited to choose from the spacious 50-square-metre Deluxe Rooms, the exquisitely appointed 102-square-meter Gardenia Suites, or the enchanting 127-square-meter Marigold and Amaranth Suites.

Atop the hotel, The Ritz-Carlton Suite crowns the property as a 389-square-meter penthouse, offering an unrivaled setting for the most luxurious of escapes.

Perched on the 23rd floor, The Club Lounge is an exclusive and inviting retreat adorned with locally sourced treasures, offering an atmosphere of privacy and sophistication. Featuring five daily culinary presentations in a serene setting, the lounge is a key element of The Ritz-Carlton Club experience, which includes seamless check-in with a dedicated Club Concierge and bespoke in-room amenities for an unparalleled level of personalized service.

Three exceptional dining experiences transport guests through distinct culinary worlds, each offering its unique take on flavour and atmosphere.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa is a haven of tranquility, where guests can rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul. The sophisticated sanctuary fosters well-being with five exquisite treatment rooms, a couple’s spa suite, and a relaxing pod, complemented by a state-of-the-art fitness centre designed for invigorating workouts.

Nestled amidst the lush greenery, two sparkling swimming pools – including a dedicated kids’ pool – offer refreshing retreats from the tropical climate. Meanwhile, young explorers are engaged and entertained at the Ritz Kids Club, where spirited activities await.

For more information, visit www.theritzcarltonbangkok.com.

St. Kitts Ritz-Carlton will break ground in 2025

December 27, 2024
The St. Kitts Ritz-Carlton Resort Hotel and Residences is set to break ground in 2025.
 
This monumental development marks a new chapter for the island’s hospitality and real estate offerings, positioning St. Kitts as a premier luxury destination in the Caribbean.
 
Situated on the picturesque Southeast Peninsula, The St. Kitts Ritz-Carlton Resort Hotel and Residences will feature 125 guest suites, 10 branded villas, and 15 branded condominium residences. Amenities will include a luxury spa, multiple swimming pools, exceptional dining options, The Ritz-Carlton Beach Club, the Ritz Kids Club, and many other amenities designed within a ‘Kittitian Village’ concept.
 
This innovative layout blends modern luxury with the island’s natural beauty, creating an unforgettable experience for travellers.

 

Exploring St. Kitts

St. Kitts has something for every traveller, whether it’s hiking through lush rainforests, delving into history at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, or soaking up the sun.

Visitors can enjoy scenic catamaran cruises, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or unwind by the sea. Adventure enthusiasts can get their adrenaline fix with zip-lining or ATV excursions, while food lovers can savor delicious Caribbean cuisine and immerse themselves in the island’s vibrant cultural experiences.

Construction on the property is anticipated to begin by the third quarter of 2025. The St. Kitts Ritz-Carlton Resort Hotel is expected to open in the second quarter of 2028.

Reaching St. Kitts is simple and convenient, with seasonal, non-stop flights with Air Canada and US airline connections through major gateways.

Visitors are reminded to regularly check the St. Kitts Tourism Authority website ( www.visitstkitts.com ) for updates and information.

Four Seasons is opening a flagship property in Puerto Rico

December 23, 2024

Four Seasons and Paulson Puerto Rico have announced plans for the leading hospitality and branded residential company to assume management of a resort and residences in Bahia Beach, Rio Grande.

The opening will mark the entry of Four Seasons to Puerto Rico and the continued expansion of the renowned luxury brand in the Caribbean.

Located on 483 acres along Bahia Beach, the property is seamlessly integrated with its natural surroundings, allowing guests and residents to immerse themselves in the beauty of Puerto Rico. The local surroundings will continue to be preserved, with interiors undergoing renovations before unveiling as Four Seasons Resort Puerto Rico in late 2025.

Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Puerto Rico will offer 139 reimagined rooms and suites and 85 Private Residences, with additional existing units that will join the residential portfolio upon the property’s reopening as a Four Seasons experience.

The property is ideally located a short 30-minute drive from San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport.

Inside the Park Hyatt New York suite that costs $50,000 a night

December 18, 2024

Park Hyatt New York unveils its latest masterpiece, the Manhattan Suite, located on the hotel’s 25th floor and now available for stays starting at $50,000 per night with a two-night minimum.

Representing a $10 million investment, this exclusive suite, complemented by two additional connecting suites, forms an expansive 3,500-square-foot retreat with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two powder rooms, and two balconies, accommodating up to 10 guests. With sophisticated furnishings and distinctive design elements, the Manhattan Suite offers an unparalleled residential experience, exuding refined elegance and showcasing breathtaking 180-degree views of Manhattan’s iconic skyline.

Debuting during the hotel’s 10th anniversary this year, the suite marks a significant milestone in Park Hyatt New York’s multi-million-dollar renovation, celebrating a decade of luxury and innovation.

About the suite

The Manhattan Suite features a bespoke art collection and over 50 New York and art-inspired coffee table books, meticulously arranged to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Curated by Tatar Art Projects, this ensemble includes works by renowned artists, authors, sculptors, designers, and artisans whose creations have graced prestigious venues such as the Guggenheim Museum.

Sawyer & Company, the New York-based boutique design studio, crafted the interiors to reflect the city’s creative spirit while paying tribute to the hotel’s rich artistic heritage. Nearly 18-foot floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking views of the striking skyline and Central Park allow natural light to fill the space during the day and the city lights to dazzle at night. The spacious living area is elegantly designed to host social gatherings or facilitate meetings, featuring a dining table for eight and a Bernardaud dinnerware collection. The kitchen is equipped with premium Miele appliances—including a built-in microwave and wall oven, induction cooktop, 24-inch fully integrated dishwasher, and a Master Cool fridge-freezer—bringing a sense of refined residential comfort to this luxurious setting. The primary bedroom in the Manhattan Suite also includes a private bar, complete with a renowned wine selection.

Guests can indulge in restful sleep with soft Sferra linens on Bryte Balance king-size beds, equipped with AI-powered, multi-sensory technology that helps combat jet lag, promote quicker sleep, and ensure deeper rest. The lavish bathrooms further enhance the stay, featuring Le Labo amenities and the latest hair dryer from renowned stylist Rossano Ferretti. The opulent master bathroom offers a dual vanity, a walk-in rain shower functioning also as a steam room, an oversized marble soaking tub, heated marble floors, a Toto electric toilet, and bidets.

Additional amenities

The Manhattan Suite experience is elevated with exclusive amenities such as a dedicated concierge, a personalized welcome gift, a refrigerator and mini bar stocked to guests’ preferences, and the option for custom embroidered robes or pillowcases. Guests can also enjoy complimentary daily breakfast, indulgent spa treatments at the award-winning Spa Nalai, and seamless airport transfers to and from local NYC airports.

Additional enhancements available upon request for a fee include private jet transfers to New York City provided by Advent Jets, a personal in-suite chef tasting dinner, and a private hour in the indoor saltwater swimming pool, complete with a curated underwater playlist. Guests also have the option to have a Peloton bike delivered to the suite for an invigorating workout. They can further immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of New York City, thanks to the hotel’s prime location near iconic landmarks such as Central Park, Carnegie Hall, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and Lincoln Center, offering an array of enriching cultural experiences to explore.

The introduction of the Manhattan Suite complements the recent debut of the Hairspa by Hair Maestro Rossano Ferretti in June, setting the stage for forthcoming renovations that will feature a redesigned Spa Nalai and reimagined specialty suites, all equipped with Bryte Balance beds for enhanced comfort. These new developments are part of Park Hyatt New York’s celebration of its 10th anniversary, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to continual luxury and innovation.

For more information on Park Hyatt New York, visit www.parkhyattnewyork.com.

Dart adds luxurious Zemi Beach House in Anguilla to hotel portfolio

December 16, 2024

Dart has added the Zemi Beach House Anguilla to its hotel portfolio. Dart acquired the property from the Goldstein family of New York which developed and has operated the resort since its 2016 opening.

Located on six-acres along the serene shores of Shoal Bay on Anguilla’s north coast, Zemi Beach House is known as an intimate boutique hideaway with 77 rooms and expansive amenities.

Dart’s growing hospitality portfolio centres on luxury resorts including the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Awarded Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman and Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa in Grand Cayman as well as Conrad Orlando at Evermore, an 1,100-acre resort community developed by Dart Interests and opened in 2023.

About Zemi Beach House

Part of LXR Hotels & Resorts, Hilton’s luxury collection brand, Zemi Beach House is located on six acres along Anguilla’s serene Shoal Bay East.

The 77-room enclave offers a range of accommodations from superior and premium guest rooms to two- and three-bedroom penthouse suites and beachfront suites. Designed by internationally renowned Caribbean architect Lane Pettigrew, the property’s architecture pulls inspiration from Anguilla’s natural environment and blends modern, clean lines with classic Caribbean building details.

The intimate boutique indulges guests with expansive amenities including two restaurants, three lounges, three pools, more than a mile of sandy beach and a 15,000 square foot spa set in an authentic 300-year-old Thai house.

For more information, visit zemibeach.com.