Orlando is finally opening its first new theme park for the first time in 25 years

January 8, 2025 No Comments

Orlando is set to welcome more than 25 experiences for 2025, including its first new theme park in over 25 years. 

“For the first time in 25 years, Orlando is on the brink of welcoming an entirely new theme park — a milestone that underscores our position as a top destination this year for travelers worldwide,” said Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando. “If it’s your first time or you haven’t visited in over a year, consider this your invitation to plan an unforgettable Orlando vacation, creating memories with our world-class theme parks, award-winning dining and new experiences slated to open in 2025.”

New theme parks and attractions

Universal Orlando Resort

  • Universal Orlando Resort‘s Universal Epic Universe will open May 22, featuring over 50 attractions across five immersive worlds
  • Celestial Park immerses guests in living gardens and architecture inspired by astronomy and mythology.
  • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic blends 1920s wizarding Paris from Fantastic Beasts with the British Ministry of Magic.
  • SUPER NINTENDO WORLD features the iconic green pipes alongside beloved characters Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Donkey Kong.
  • How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk offers a vibrant Viking realm inspired by the hit film franchise.
  • Dark Universe reveals Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s experiments and a shadowy realm where monsters roam amid myth and mystery.

Walt Disney World Resort

  • This summer at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests can enjoy two brand-new stage shows: “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” inspired by the classic film, and “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After,” with appearances by infamous evildoers.
  • Debuting at EPCOT, Test Track presented by Chevrolet will feature new scenes that highlight technological advances.
  • Two new Walt Disney World lounges will make their debut:
  • A Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge at Magic Kingdom Park.
  • A Spaceship Earth-inspired lounge at EPCOT overlooking the World Showcase.
  • Magic Kingdom Park will debut the “Disney Starlight” nighttime parade this summer.

Other attractions

  • SEA LIFE Florida at LEGOLAND Florida Resort offers guests an oceanic adventure with diverse marine life and interactive exhibits.
  • Fun Spot Orlando introduces new rides this year at both its locations. On I-Drive, kids can whirl around on Tea Cups or experience high-flying twists on MACH FUN, while Kissimmee visitors can enjoy Swing Around in the Kids Spot area and the Up and Overboard inverted pendulum ride.
  • Gatorland debuted Sweet Tooth’s Candy Shop, a specialty candy store with over 60 varieties of handcrafted chocolates, confections and ice cream.
  • Blue Man Group returns April 3 with a new home at ICON Park featuring the show’s signature mix of art, live music, comedy and audience participation.

Go beyond the theme parks

New dining experiences 

  • East End Market welcomes a two-in-one concept: Rion’s Ocean Room, which opened in fall 2024, and Gyukatsu Rose, set to open in early 2025.
  • The Cake Bake Shop Bakery by Gwendolyn Rogers opened in October at Disney’s BoardWalk and features savory and sweet options, along with afternoon tea service.
  • Epilogue, a new adults-only speakeasy, opened at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort in October. The intimate lounge features library-inspired decor and a variety of themed cocktails.
  • Moso Nori, a Japanese hand-roll bar concept by James Beard Award finalist and Michelin-recognized chef Henry Moso, opened in November in Winter Park.
  • Alien Treats, an alien-themed dessert shop in downtown Orlando, specializes in out-of-this-world space-themed and freeze-dried candies, milkshakes, and ice cream.
  • The Lake Nona Wave Hotel introduced Garni Café – an all-day French bistro – and The Nectar Room – a cocktail lounge – to the hotel’s award-winning dining scene.
  • Oza Izakaya is now open near SeaWorld Orlando, highlighting a blend of the Japanese izakaya setting and omakase style of dining.
  • Lorelai Wine Bar opens in February in downtown Orlando, offering European wines and shareable plates.
  • The Glass Knife opens its second location on Park Avenue in Winter Park this spring, serving elegant pastries and desserts, plus breakfast, lunch and brunch.

New and reimagined places to stay

  • Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, a Disney Vacation Club addition, opened in December offering villas with kitchens and patios, plus two-bedroom penthouses featuring lagoon and Magic Kingdom views.
  • Universal Stella Nova Resort, opening Jan. 21, and Universal Terra Luna Resort, opening Feb. 25, will add 1,500 guest rooms to Universal Orlando, featuring 750 double-queen rooms, diverse dining, resort-style pools, game rooms and more.
  • Universal Helios Grand Hotel by Loews, opening in May, will have a dedicated entrance into the new Universal Epic Universe. The 500-room, 35-suite property features in-room tablets for digital controls, plus a rooftop bar, three-meal restaurant, pool bar and grab-and-go station.
  • Upon completion in early 2025, Villatel Orlando Resort will have 526 units with apartment-style suites and single-family homes, plus an adventure waterpark with multi-story slides and lazy river, fitness center, full-service restaurant and playgrounds.
  • Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground at Walt Disney World Resort unveils 365 newly renovated cabins this spring.
  • The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin completes its remodel of Swan guest rooms and debuts refreshed meeting spaces boasting a modern design and upgraded event technology.

Are these the top luxury travel trends of 2025?

January 6, 2025 No Comments

Leading luxury tour operator Artisans of Leisure has compiled its latest Luxury Travel Trends List based on the company’s intimate knowledge of the luxury travel market.

“Private, luxurious, highly personalized travel continues to be a priority for affluent consumers,” said Ashley Ganz, founder and CEO of Artisans of Leisure. “They feel that travel brings joy and inspiration to their lives and that it is one of the best uses of their time and money.”

Artisans of Leisure arranges private, customized international tours for high-net-worth travellers. The company’s unique position in the travel industry—catering exclusively to affluent travellers—allows them unrivaled firsthand insight into luxury travel in the world today.

Luxury travel trends list for 2025

  • Mother-daughter trips
  • Trips inspired by social media
  • Big, multi-country trips of regions such as Central Europe, Scandinavia, the Baltic States, the UK, Southeast Asia and the Mediterranean
  • Interest in unique collaborations among hotels, fashion houses, top chefs and illustrators and related activities and merchandise
  • Trips that create one-of-a-kind memories through special experiences such as exclusive access and VIP and behind-the-scenes tours
  • Wine tours in countries such as Argentina, Chile, Georgia, New Zealand, France, Spain and Italy
  • Safaris
  • Multi-generational trips with grandparents, parents and grandchildren
  • Design-inspired travel
  • Active and adventure experiences
  • Cultural interaction
  • Iconic experiences such as hot-air balloon rides over the Valley of the Kings in Egypt or the Serengeti in Tanzania
  • Genealogical travel to explore family history
  • Extending time in a destination to vacation before or after a work trip or a wedding
  • Bucket-list trips
  • Incorporating yacht charters and luxury train journeys into longer tours
  • Avoiding extreme heat
  • Avoiding crowds
  • Over-the-top luxury. High-end travelers continue to splurge on travel. They want to do it right—with exclusive, over-the-top tours that include ultra-luxury services.
  • Private travel at all times
  • Last-minute travel is popular, with many travellers wanting to travel frequently and thinking nothing of booking only a few weeks in advance.
  • Travel with friends
  • Travel inspired by films and TV shows
  • Returning to favourite destinations that feel relaxing

Artisans of Leisure arranges private cultural tours in more than 70 countries worldwide. For more information, visit www.artisansofleisure.com.

Virgin’s $199,000 Annual Pass lets you sail unlimited for a year

January 3, 2025 No Comments

Virgin Voyages has debuted its 2026 iteration early, giving travellers ample time to plan.

Back by popular demand and more legendary than its predecessor, Virgin Voyages’ Annual Pass 2026 gives Sailors a taste of the high life with:

  • A complimentary, one-week stay on Necker Island, Richard’s stunning 74-acre retreat in the British Virgin Islands surrounded by coral reefs and fringed with beautiful white sandy beaches (Valid during an Individual Stay week)
  • Round-trip, business-class flights and ferry transfers from anywhere in the continental US to Necker Island
  • Daily opportunities to Shake for Champagne with Moët delivered anywhere on-demand
  • Virgin Voyages’ signature red, Yellow Leaf Hammock to take home a little R&R and remind Sailors of the incredible #balconylife
  • Special birthday upgrade to a RockStar Quarters suite (i.e. Seriously Suite, Brilliant Suite, Sweet Aft Suite or Cheeky Corner Suite)
  • A $10,000 shopping spree in the High Street shops featuring renowned brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, MAC and more
  • One curated and privately hosted Shore Thing every quarter (or four per year)
  • A beach, grove or poolside cabana at Virgin Voyages’ exclusive Beach Club in Bimini (limited to 10x per year)
  • Personalized RockStar robes

About the 2026 Annual Pass

With the price tag of $199,000 USD, the ultra-luxurious Annual Pass 2026 redefines the meaning of bucket list travel.

Annual Pass 2026 includes options to sail aboard the brand’s newest ship, Brilliant Lady, which is set to make her Alaskan debut in May 2026 from Seattle. It’s available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pass holders can select a start date of Jan. 1, Feb. 1, March 1 or April 1, and the pass will be valid for one year from the desired start date. Sailors must book between now and March 31, 2026. Annual Pass is not combinable with other offers or Bar Tab. Sailors will also earn Deep Blue Extras upon booking.

To book the Annual Pass, inquire via the “Contact Us” page. To learn more about Annual Pass, or to view the terms and conditions, visit our webpage here.

French Country Waterways changes routes on three luxury barges

December 20, 2024 No Comments

In 2025, new and loyal guests of French Luxury Waterways will be met with a fresh take on France as three of the line’s four barges are being repositioned.

Princess will call on wineries and towns in Champagne, Nenuphar will visit the Upper Loire, and Horizon II visits Alsace-Lorraine, while Adrienne remains in Burgundy. A 2025 digital brochure is available at 2025 French Country Waterways Brochure.

French Country Waterways’ luxury barges accommodate eight to 12 guests, making for a highly personalized experience and lasting friendships with fellow guests and crew.

The six-night sailings in each region are offered from late-March through October.

Sailing with French Country Waterways is fully inclusive, with private tours and wine tastings; exceptional cuisine from the on-board chef and dinner ashore at a Michelin-starred restaurant; a fully stocked open bar and all wines, many of which are from Grand and Premier Cru vineyards; dozens of tantalizing French cheeses; a private motorcoach, and more.

Fares begin at $8,195 per person, double occupancy.

For more information, visit www.fcwl.com.

British Airways shows off new First Class seats with a luxury hotel feel

December 2, 2024 No Comments

British Airways has unveiled its brand-new First seat, combining elegant design with expert British craftsmanship, reflective of modern British luxury travel. The new cabin forms part of the airline’s A380 retrofit plans, expected to take to the skies in mid-2026.

The airline’s new First has been carefully designed to provide the feel of a modern luxury hotel, alongside home comforts and thoughtful British touches at 35,000ft. The seat has been beautifully curated by expert designers and world-class manufacturers from all corners of Great Britain and Ireland, including London, Glasgow, West Yorkshire, Kilkeel and Dublin.

About the new First seats

The new seat is ultra-wide (36.5inches), with a bed length of 79inches, and features a multi-purpose ottoman and elegant stowable table, a 32-inch 4K TV screen, adjustable mood lighting including scenes such as ‘relax’, ‘dine’ and ‘cinema’. The seat can be adjusted with the touch of a button to find the perfect level of comfort and is located within a cocooned 60-inch curved wall for ultimate privacy, whilst still providing a spacious environment.

For customers travelling together in the centre of the cabin, the divider slides open to create a shared lounge space, and the stowable tables mean customers can enjoy ‘buddy dining’ in the seat with their travel companion.

The elegant curves throughout the cabin take inspiration from British Airways’ Concorde wings, giving a natural flow to the space and creating a welcoming environment. Customers can now simply wheel their luggage into their personal luggage space, making it even easier to settle in before their flight.

Other suite perks

Elsewhere, the suite features an ambient light with an eye-catching design that subtly references the airline’s speedmarque and further nods to Concorde. The suite features window blinds, activated by buttons on the internal control panel for all three windows per seat.

The soft panelling inside the seat also helps with acoustics and absorbing sound, which adds to the sense of being in a cocooned, private space. Customers can also use the seat’s brand-new ‘do not disturb’ functionality on its wireless control tablet, which notifies crew if they wish to maximize their rest on board.

The airline is continuing to invest in its overall customer experience and has already rolled out over 120 initiatives as part of its $9billion transformation focus, from brand-new short-haul seats, free Wi-Fi messaging on board to refreshing its lounges across its global network.

 

The U.K. is enforcing ETAs for Canadian travellers as of this January

November 22, 2024 No Comments

The U.K. government is introducing a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for visitors, including Canadians, who don’t currently need a visa for short stays.

This new system is part of efforts to improve border security and prevent misuse of the U.K. immigration system. Canadians can apply for an ETA starting Nov. 27, 2024 and will need it to travel to the UK from Jan. 8, 2025.

The ETA costs £10 and allows multiple visits to the U.K. for up to six months at a time. It will be valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

Everyone, including babies and children, will need an ETA and you can apply for others as well. The ETA will be required for visits such as tourism, business, visiting family and friends, short-term study or even just transiting through the UK. Other visits include stays of up to three months under the Creative Worker visa concession or for a permitted paid engagement.

How to apply

The easiest way to apply is through the UK ETA app. Most applications will be processed within three working days, but sometimes it may take a little longer. The new system will help make travel easier while ensuring stronger security at the UK border.

To find out more about the ETA and how to apply, visit GOV.UK. The website also has helpful videos to explain the process. GOV.UK is the official site for UK government services and information.

Wilderness Scotland adds new adventure-style trips for next year

November 13, 2024 No Comments

Wilderness Scotland, known for offering exceptional small-group guided hiking and cycling trips, as well as wildlife-focused journeys and wilderness retreats across the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, has unveiled a range of new trips for 2025.

Catering to those who crave outdoor adventure led by exceptional local guides, these brand-new trips offer everything from thrilling gravel rides and luxury trekking adventures to in-depth explorations of Scotland’s serene lochs, ancient forests, and heather-clad mountains.

About the new tours

Luxury Walking – Highlights of the West Highland Way

The magic of walking in Scotland can be distilled into the iconic West Highland Way, a classic long-distance trek covering 96 miles/154 km from Milngavie to Fort William in the Highlands. On this new, 10-day luxury adventure, guests will explore some of this route’s most beautiful sections, along with stunning Glencoe and the wild West Coast, whilst enjoying stays in upscale accommodations (think five-star country houses and baronial mansions) and exclusive experiences along the way.

The tour begins in Glasgow, before heading north to Milngavie, the trailhead for the West Highland Way. Over 10 perfectly paced days, travellers will enjoy a carefully curated itinerary that balances engaging hiking with iconic sites, culturally rich experiences, and upscale dining and lodging.

2025 departures: May 4-13, June 1-10, and Aug. 31-Sept. 9 || Pricing: Starting at US$7,462.00 per person.

Wilderness Walking – Perthshire & Loch Lomond 

This brand-new, seven-day guided journey of Perthshire and the Southern Highlands, including the opportunity to go into the heart of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, leads guests past lochs, deep forests, and soaring heather-cloaked mountains. Accompanied by a knowledgeable Wilderness guide, travelers will learn about both the folklore and the faultlines of the region as they hike a spectacular section of the West Highland Way and up Ben A’an’s pyramidal peak.

2025 departures: May 4-13, June 1-10, and Aug. 31-Sept. 9 || Pricing: Starting at US$7,462.00 per person.

Wilderness Walking – Perthshire & Loch Lomond 

This brand-new, seven-day guided journey of Perthshire and the Southern Highlands, including the opportunity to go into the heart of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, leads guests past lochs, deep forests, and soaring heather-cloaked mountains. Accompanied by a knowledgeable Wilderness guide, travellers will learn about both the folklore and the fault lines of the region as they hike a spectacular section of the West Highland Way and up Ben A’an’s pyramidal peak.

2025 departures: May 10-16, August 9-15, and Sept. 6-12 || Pricing: Starting at US$3,382.00 per person.

Gravel Biking – Highland Gravel Trail 

A new trip and a new trip style for Wilderness Scotland, this seven-day itinerary is one of the two brand-new gravel trips available from the company in 2025, complementing its ever-expanding roster of guided cycling vacations, which also includes various road cycling and E-bike adventures.

On this fully guided adventure through the dramatic Highlands, guests will pedal along gravel highways, forest tracks, and paths that twist and turn all the way from Milngavie to Aviemore in the Cairngorms. A journey that strikes the perfect balance between excellent riding, diverse landscapes, and fascinating historical sites, it was the path taken long ago by highland drovers and their many heads of cattle, connecting the historic towns and villages of Scotland, making them perfect for a point-to-point cross-country trip.

2025 departures: June 2-8 and Aug. 16-22 || Pricing: Starting at US$3,787.00 per person.

For trip options in England and Ireland, including many new additions for 2025, visit WildernessEngland.com and WildernessIreland.com.

 

Atlas Ocean Voyages shows off 2026 itineraries with 28 new ports of call

November 11, 2024 No Comments

Atlas Ocean Voyages has unveiled its 2026 summer itinerary collection, featuring new expeditions across the Canadian Arctic, Bermuda, Caribbean, and Europe—including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Iceland, and Greenland.

With 28 new ports of call, this season’s expanded portfolio offers unparalleled experiences for returning and new guests. From Polar and Cultural Expeditions to Epicurean journeys, Atlas Ocean Voyages now provides a more diverse selection of immersive adventures than ever before.

Atlas Ocean Voyages’ new summer expeditions feature an exciting range of ports, offering guests unique encounters and immersive experiences. In Brønnøysund, Norway, marvel at sea eagles and seals in their natural habitat, while Warnemünde, Germany, combines scenic beaches with traditional maritime culture and easy access to Berlin. Sip robust wines in Çeşme, Turkey, famed for centuries-old vineyards. St. Anthony and Red Bay in Canada showcase Viking history, while Îles de la Madeleine and Corner Brook highlight nature’s beauty. Bermuda’s St. George’s and Hamilton add vibrant culture, rounding out a season of captivating destinations.

“We are excited to introduce 28 new ports to our destination portfolio,” said James Rodriguez, president and CEO. “Our expanded team of experts and guides ensures a deeply immersive experience aboard every voyage. These additions will be popular with our past guests and likely to sell out quickly.”

Enhanced Destination Experience with Late Departures and Overnights

Featuring over 70 extended evenings, leaving ports after 8 PM, allowing ample time to immerse in each destination’s local culture, cuisine, and energy. Additionally, with more than 25 overnight stays, travelers have extended hours to explore, creating a relaxed and enriched journey.

New expeditions highlights

Picturesque Peaks & Fjords | 14-NIGHT LONDON ROUNDTRIP | JUNE 1, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

Denmark & Sweden Beauties | 10-NIGHT OSLO TO STOCKHOLM | JUNE 30, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

Sea of Antiquity | 10-NIGHT ISTANBUL TO ROME | JULY 20, 2026 | Epicurean Expedition

Riviera Marvels | 10-NIGHT ROME TO BARCELONA | JULY 30, 2026 | Epicurean Expedition

Pearls of Italy | 7-NIGHT ROME TO DUBROVNIK | SEPTEMBER 8, 2026 | Epicurean Expedition

Greenland & Canada Explorer | 11-NIGHT KANGERLUSSUAQ TO HALIFAX | SEPTEMBER 21, 2026 | Polar Expedition

Bermuda & Island Wonders | 12-NIGHT HALIFAX TO PHILIPSBURG | OCTOBER 2, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

Colours of the Caribbean | 7-NIGHT PHILIPSBURG TO BRIDGETOWN | OCTOBER 14, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

 

Ponant launches four new expert-led voyages for 2025

November 8, 2024 No Comments

Ponant has released a new series of expert-led themed itineraries for 2025 that welcome notable experts and special guests and include tailored programming and shore excursions.

Each themed itinerary is designed to inspire guests by blending cultural immersion with expert insights, allowing for a richer appreciation of the history, sights, sounds, and flavors of the destinations.

New itineraries feature an exploration of the Iberian Peninsula’s rich tapestry of cultures, and a musically themed voyage from Glasgow to Bordeaux with special appearances by Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart and six internationally renowned musicians.

“While PONANT is known for our immersive expeditions and exploration, we also curate themed voyages that invite guests to embark on a more personalized journey of discovery that speaks to their individual passions and curiosities,” said Samuel Chamberlain, PONANT Exploration’s CEO of the Americas. “With robust expert-led enrichment tailored to pique a unique range of interests—whether gastronomy, history, or culture—these bespoke voyages offer enriching onboard programs and illuminating shoreside experiences to reveal each destination through a distinct lens. The result is journeys that exceed expectations and deepen both understanding and connection on a profoundly personal level.”

Where traditional PONANT voyages are operated in both French and English, these themed departures are operated in English only while preserving the company’s signature French flair and heritage in onboard delivery and service.

For more information, visit https://us.ponant.com .

Backroads adds 40 new walking & hiking trips just for women

October 4, 2024 No Comments

Backroads has expanded its Women’s Adventures with more than 40 walking and hiking trips and 125 departures available in 2025.

Exclusively for women—solo travellers, mothers, daughters, sisters and friends—Women’s Adventures were an instant hit after the announcement last fall, with 2024 trips quickly booking to capacity.

The first trip ran in May, and the offering continues to gain momentum and garner rave reviews as word spreads. The company projects more than a 200 percent increase in Women’s Adventures guests for 2025. The collection features the same expert trip design, flexible itineraries, exceptional Trip Leaders and world-class support that are hallmarks of all Backroads trips.

“Women of all ages have been a significant part of the growth in active adventure travel so we expected our Women’s Adventures would be well received, but we are thrilled with the overwhelmingly enthusiastic response,” said Backroads executive vice-president, Avery Hale Smith. “We’ve heard from many women—solo travellers and those who travel with friends or family—that the trips feel supportive, inspiring and rejuvenating and they love how the camaraderie and bonding is so organic.”

New tours launching in 2025

Backroads Women’s Adventures are available for immediate booking. For the complete collection and for more information, visit Backroads.com.