New report highlights the changing face of luxury travel in Asia Pacific

July 19, 2024 No Comments

As the Asia Pacific region continues to be the growth engine for luxury travel, a new comprehensive report from the Luxury Group by Marriott International has identified new expectations and travel preferences among high-net-worth (HNW) travellers in Asia Pacific.

Across the region, 68 per cent are planning to spend more on travel over the next 12 months – 89 per cent among Indians – with 74 per cent planning to travel within Asia Pacific and 88 per cent prioritizing gastronomy as the reason to travel. One in four of all holidays planned (25 per cent) are celebrations.

Three distinct new groups of luxury traveler have emerged – the ‘Venture Travelist’ who seeks business opportunities when traveling, ‘Experience Connoisseur’ Millennials who are traveling for enrichment and ‘Timeless Adventurer’, over 65s who are building their own itineraries and exploring places before they become popular.

Longer holidays on the rise

The research among HNW travelers in Australia, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia and India reveals they are traveling frequently with longer holidays especially across the Asia Pacific region. An average of six leisure trips is planned within the next 12 months while 33% of respondents are planning at least seven holidays this year. On average, a short stay comprises three nights while a long stay is two-and-a-half weeks. For many, the kinship and connection within a group enhances the richness of the travel experience, with over 70% choosing to travel with family or friends.

Australia is the destination of choice (46 per cent, above Japan (42 per cent) and Hong Kong, China (27 per cent). Sixty-nine per cent of India’s HNW tourists are planning a trip to Australia and it is the top destination of choice for Indonesian, Japanese and Singaporean travellers.

Travel trends revealed

Increasing demand in India

The most active and engaged travel market, 89 per cent of Indian HNW say they are planning to spend more on travel.

Families and friends are touring together to mark key milestones, attend a private function or event, with 38 per cent planning a trip with friends and 33 per cent making theirs a celebratory trip.

A Fascination for Food

A whopping 88 per cent are picking their holiday destination based on discovering a new food or culinary experience. Acutely aware of dining trends, almost half of the respondents (49 per cent) describe a fine dining experience as an ideal night out.

Reinforcing this point, 83 per cent will choose a destination to visit an award-winning restaurant and 35 per cent agreed they would spend more on unique culinary experiences. When choosing a hotel, 81 per cent of HNW travellers make their selection based on fine dining options and 83 per cent choose a destination so they can visit a celebrated restaurant.

 

New traveller personas emerge

With more disposable income for holidays and a growing population of ageing travellers, the research has identified three new categories of affluent travellers. These include:

i) The ‘Venture Travelist’
The next-generation Bleisure tourist, the Venture Travelist prioritizes holiday destinations that will generate business opportunities. While they enjoy their vacation with their family and loved ones, they are always on the lookout to secure a deal. Entrepreneurs at heart, they explore a location, shopping for local products and antiques, and looking to forge business connections with members from the local community.

ii) The ‘Experience Connoisseur’
Predominantly millennials, Experience Connoisseurs plan their leisure travel as an opportunity for personal enrichment. They travel extensively and see the experience as an investment in their mental and physical wellbeing. They want to deeply explore a destination, they value personalization and actively seek exclusive one-of-a-kind experiences.

iii) The ‘Timeless Adventurer’
Debunking every stereotype of the over-65 ‘silver set travelers’, Timeless Adventurers are keen explorers who want to immerse themselves in a destination. They’re less interested in tourist attractions and more drawn to what gives the destination a sense of place, what makes it unique and memorable.

The full report is available to download.

Rethink the drink: 15 of the best canned mocktails for summer

June 24, 2024 No Comments

Back in 2023, Health Canada proposed new guidelines for alcohol intake, based on a series of recommendations by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA).

The report concluded that to reduce some of the harms associated with alcohol intake, Canadians should consume no more than two alcoholic drinks per week.

And while cutting back on booze is nothing new, the numbers don’t lie—more Canadians, especially Gen Z (those born 1997 to 2011) and Millennials (1981-1996), are embracing a sober lifestyle.

Data taken from Statistics Canada in 2021 shows that there was a 10.1 per cent decline in heavy alcohol consumption in Canadians aged 18 to 34 years, which is almost one-third (31.5 per cent) lower compared with those who reported high consumption levels in 2015, and those numbers have only continued to decline since. 

Data from the Expedia Group’s Unpack ‘24 survey also reveals that more than 40 per cent of travellers say they are likely to book a detox trip in the next year, with another one in four saying that the top reason for drinking less on vacation is to stay in control and feel better emotionally and physically.

Luckily, we’ve come a long way from justifying overpriced juice and settling for sad seltzer at the bar, or on holiday. Distillers are getting creative with their mocktails, whether that means infusing housemade syrups or using foraged herbs and botanicals for an even better buzz. In support of a hangover-free summer, here are 15 of our favourite canned mocktails for slow sipping.

Espresso Martini: Monsieur Cocktail

Largely known for their syrups and bitters, Monsieur Cocktail’s non-alcoholic line, NOA, carries a canned espresso martini beverage. Sweetened with a hint of amaretto, you can expect bold notes of roasted coffee, complete with a frothy top—just remember to shake well, first.

Gin and Tonic: Sir James 101

Pretty and pink, Sir James’ alcohol-free gin and tonic has a subtle hint of raspberry and pomegranate tucked amongst familiar herbal notes of juniper. It looks almost as good as it tastes!

Piña Colada: HP Juniper

If you like piña coladas, you’ll love this one from Quebec distiller HP Juniper—creamy coconut, fruity pineapple and warm vanilla swirl together to create the perfect fake take on this classic cocktail that pairs well with lazy days by the lake or pool.

Margarita: Little Saints

Lime, a hint of jalapeño and turmeric blend together to form this spicy take on a marg. While this drink is zero-proof, it’s infused with organic reishi mushroom—a centuries-old ingredient that calms the mind and body. And we’ll drink to that!

Martini: Mixoloshe

A little lychee and a hint of sparkle make for a mean martini. For an extra fancy take, shake and serve in a martini glass, garnished with fresh strawberries or raspberries. Mixoloshe recently rebranded to SMASHD, and their line of non-alcoholic drinks are under 50 calories and sweetened with cane sugar.

Mimosa: Fauxmosa

Whether it’s for brunch or just because, Fauxmosa’s orange mimosa with turmeric tastes like the real deal. The addition of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc grapes and a hint of apple cider vinegar lend a familiar sour slant.

Mojito: Noroi

A hint of tangy, summer raspberries pairs perfectly with the zestiness of lime in this mojito, produced by Quebec’s own Noroi Distillerie.

Moscow Mule: Edna's

Vancouver-based Edna’s blends natural ginger, fresh lime juice and whisky extracts—lending to an almost replica taste, with none of the alcohol content.

Negroni: Wild Folk

With a sparkling twist, WildFolk’s take on a negroni has a mix of smoky and bitter botanicals like grapefruit rind, juniper, star anise and grapefruit.

Paloma: Olé

A good paloma (tequila infused with grapefruit juice) should still provide a bit of a bitter bite—Olé’s version of a Mexican classic is sweetened naturally with organic agave nectar and real grapefruit juice, so there’s none of that sickeningly sweet aftertaste.

Peach Bellini: aelo

Just like a juicy Ontario peach in the middle of August, this bellini is bursting with flavour, and soda water for a fizzy finish. This one’s sugar-free, too—aelo uses Stevia extract to sweeten its drinks.

Sangria: Clever

Crafted in Canada and distilled in small batches, juicy notes of peach blend with the taste of bitter orange and lemon peels for a truly refreshing taste.

Spritz: Optimist Botanicals

An adaptation of one of summer’s favourite drinks, the Cali Spritz blends citrus notes of pink grapefruit and Mandarin orange with bitter herbs of bay laurel, sage, wormwood, gentian and dandelion root. Ashwagandha and schisandra are added to relieve stress and promote balance.

Whisky & Cola: Lyre's

The crisp taste of cola and sweet layers of caramel, toasted nut, cedary spice and rye come together in a can of Lyre’s American Malt & Cola. Perfect as is for cottage barbecue sessions or, for an elevated take, pour into a highball glass and enjoy with a generous serving of ice.

Whisky Sour: Spiritless

An old time favourite, this pour-over version of a classic whisky sour uses Spiritless’ Kentucky 74 non-alcoholic whisky, fresh lemon juice and a touch of cane sugar. Feel free to shake with an egg white and add ice, or drink it straight from the can.

Most Canadian families are spending $2,700 on their summer vacations

June 21, 2024 No Comments

Allianz Global Assistance (Allianz), a leading Canadian travel insurance provider, released the results of its Summer Vacation Confidence Study, which gauges travellers’ sentiments, confidence and intentions regarding their summer vacation plans.

This year’s survey, conducted in partnership with Ipsos, reveals insightful trends and preferences as impacts like inflation and pandemic recovery continue to influence consumer mindsets and travel patterns.

Allianz’s Summer Vacation Confidence Study found that summer vacation confidence is on the rise with 61 per cent of Canadians planning to take a trip this summer. Summer travel intentions are highest among those aged 18-34 (72 per cent confident) and families with kids (73 per cent confident).

The study also revealed that the average vacationing family intends to spend $2,728 on a summer vacation this year – which equates to roughly $24.9 billion collectively.

Key study highlights

More of Allianz’s Summer Vacation Confidence Study results:

  • Almost all Canadians who intend to travel (89 per cent) plan to obtain travel insurance (Allianz Vacation Confidence Study, November 2023)
  • Families with kids plan on spending an average of $3,519 on summer vacations this year
  • Most Canadians are travelling this summer for a leisure vacation to rest and relax (65 per cent) or to visit family and friends (46 per cent)
  • One quarter of those who say summer vacations are important are not confident they will be taking a summer vacation
  • 47 per cent of Canadians planned to travel this past winter (Allianz Vacation Confidence Study, November 2023)

For more information, visit allianz-assistance.ca.

The Canadian government just issued terror warnings for 9 European countries

June 12, 2024 No Comments

As the summer travel season in Europe heats up, the Government of Canada has issued a series of travel advisories for select countries in Europe, due to potential acts of terrorism.

The threat of terrorism in Europe remains ongoing, and attacks can happen anywhere at any time, though government buildings, including schools, places of worship, airports, and other major tourist attractions like shopping malls, restaurants or public squares can be more likely targets.

Canadian travellers to Europe this summer are urged to exercise a high degree of caution in the following countries:

Belgium

As of June 4, travellers to Belgium are urged to exercise a high degree of caution due to ongoing threats of terrorism. While petty crime (purse snatchings, pick-pocketing, etc.) remains quite common in tourist areas, there has been an increase in violence, including stabbings and shootings, linked to the drug trade in Brussels and other major cities.

In February 2024, reported shootings have occurred in the commune of Brussels, in the Marolles neighbourhood, and around the following locations in the commune Saint-Gilles: Port-de-Hal, Gare du Midi, and Place Jacques Franck.

The Government of Canada reports that in Belgium, separate attacks causing multiple deaths and injuries have taken place, and that further attacks in Belgium cannot be ruled out. The Government of Belgium maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media and social media.

If you plan to travel to Belgium during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to Belgium, click here.

Denmark

Denmark has been experiencing a heightened threat of terrorism since the beginning of August 2023, after multiple incidents of public desecration of the Qur’an in Denmark. Since then, extremists have called for retaliation against the country.

The Danish Security and Intelligence Service currently assesses the threat of a terrorist attack at level 4 (significant) on a 5-step scale.

Organized crime, including drug trade and gang violence has also been recently reported in the area of Freetown Christiania in Copenhagen. Christiana is a commune in the Christianshavn neighbourhood of Copenhagen that is known to openly sell cannabis, which remains illegal in Denmark. Photography is strictly prohibited, and tourists have been victim to assaults and robbery for failing to respect the rule.

If you plan to travel to Denmark during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to Denmark, click here.

France

As of June 11, travellers to France are urged to exercise a high degree of caution, especially with the Olympic Games taking place in Paris from July 26 to Aug. 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8, 2024.

Public events will take place across France starting on May 8 and will continue until the opening ceremony. During the Olympic Games, France will have an increased presence of security forces and large crowds and public gatherings should be expected. Major disruptions to traffic and the flow of movement should also be expected.

If you plan to travel to France during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to France, click here.

Germany

The Canadian government increased Germany’s security risk as of June 4, citing concerns around the UEFA EURO 2024 soccer tournament, which takes place from June 14 to July 14, 2024. Games will take place in 10 cities across the country.

Crime, such as theft, typically increases around major sporting events. Thieves often target tourists. Post-game celebrations and confrontations between opposing fans may lead to rowdy behaviour.

The Government of Germany maintains a public alert system on terrorism. Alert level changes are communicated through local media. Violent crime is quite uncommon in Germany, but crimes committed by far-right extremists against individuals belonging to ethnic, religious or political minorities due occur, and tourists are advised to take caution.

If you plan to travel to Germany during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to Germany, click here.

Italy

As of June 4, the Government of Canada is advising Canadians to take extra security measures when visiting Italy, due to terror-related threats. As one of the most popular summer travel destinations for Canadians, large numbers are expected this season.

The Government of Italy maintains a public alert system on terrorism. Alert level changes are communicated mainly through local media. Enhanced security measures are also deployed in various strategic locations and transport hubs.

Travellers to Italy should expect an increased presence of police and military forces during holidays and in public places, including tourist locations and major landmarks. Upcoming public holidays in Italy include Ferragosto, which takes place on Aug. 15 and is observed across Italy.

If you plan to travel to Italy during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to Italy, click here.

The Netherlands

The Government of Canada increased its risk level for travel to the Netherlands over ongoing threats of terrorism in the country.

The Dutch government maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media. The current threat level for the Netherlands is level 4 (“substantial”) on a scale of 5. A level 4 rating means that “there is a real chance of a terrorist attack in the Netherlands” according to The Terrorist Threat Assessment Netherlands.

If you plan to travel to the Netherlands during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to the Netherlands, click here.

Spain

In Spain, terrorist attacks causing deaths and injuries have taken place. The government of Canada insists that further attacks in Spain cannot be ruled out.

The Spanish government maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media. The current threat level for Spain is level 4 (“high”) on a scale of 5.

If you plan to travel to Spain during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to the Spain, click here.

Sweden

Since the beginning of 2023, there has been an increase in incidents of public desecration of the Qur’an in Stockholm.

On Aug. 17, 2023, the Swedish Security Service (SAPO) raised the national terrorist threat level from 3 (elevated) to 4 (high) on a 5-step scale. The decision is based on an assessment that the threat posed by violent extremists has increased and will remain heightened.

The Government of Sweden maintains a public alert system on terrorism. The Government communicates threat level changes online and through local media.

If you plan to travel to Sweden during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to the Sweden, click here.

The United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, previous attacks have resulted in casualties. They have included random violent incidents in public areas, such as knife and vehicle attacks as well as explosions.

These incidents have occurred mainly in the London area but have also happened elsewhere. One of the most notable terror attacks was the London Bridge van attack on June 3, 2017. Eight people were killed and 48 were injured in a terrorist vehicle-ramming incident on the London Bridge.

According to the Canadian government, further attacks in the United Kingdom are likely.

The Government of the United Kingdom maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates terrorism and national emergency threat level changes online and through local media. The national terrorism and national emergency threat level is currently 3 (“substantial”) on a scale of 5. A separate threat level for Northern Ireland is currently 4 (“severe”) on a scale of 5.

If you plan to travel to the U.K. during this time, plan your travel accordingly. For more information, including safety tips on travelling to the U.K., click here.

Air Canada offering free wine & beer on North American flights

June 5, 2024 No Comments

Air Canada is introducing premium complimentary snacks, featuring homegrown Canadian favourites, to all customers on all flights.

The airline is also expanding its complimentary beer and wine offering to customers on flights within Canada and the U.S., alongside a selection of $5 spirits, through the end of this year.

Complimentary premium snacks are now offered to Economy customers on all Air Canada flights.

Whether travelling in Canada or across the globe, all customers on all flights can enjoy free sweet or savoury bites, including two Canadian favourites: buttery herb and garlic pretzels from Alberta’s family-owned and female-led TWIGZ, and Quebec-based Leclerc’s Célébration Cookie, a crafted sweet treat made with real milk chocolate and butter.

Free wine & beer on board

Air Canada has also extended its complimentary beer and wine offering to Economy customers flying within Canada and the U.S. just in time for summer, and through to the end of this year.

This adds to the existing complimentary offering in all International Economy and Premium cabins. Beer, wine and spirits remain available for purchase from the Air Canada Bistro menu on Economy flights to and from the Caribbean and Mexico.

Customers will enjoy a curated selection of exceptional beers, French wines, and customer favourite spirits. Featured flavour-forward craft beers include Hop Valley and Creemore Springs Premium Lager, as well as crisp and refreshing Molson Canadian and Coors Light. Two French wines from Paul Mas include a robust red or a fresh, dry white.

For cocktail aficionados, $5 spirits on offer include Baileys Original Irish Cream, Canadian Club rye, Bacardi Superior rum, Bombay Sapphire gin, Smirnoff vodka, Tromba Tequila Blanco, or Campari. There’s something everyone can cheers to with the largest bar offering of any airline in North America.

Additional information on Air Canada’s new drinks and premium snacks, and more, is available at: aircanada.com/bonappetit

According to this survey, Canadians are spending large this summer

May 22, 2024 No Comments

Sky-high costs and ongoing economic pressures aren’t dampening the mood this summer season.

According to the 2024 summer travel outlook: Canadian destinations in the spotlight, Canadians are eagerly making travel plans and are ready to get away and make up for missed travel time.

Overall, consumers plan to spend an average of $2,405 on transportation and lodging costs for their major summer trip, with three in four (74 per cent) planning to stay in the country and experience the very best it has to offer.

Canadian travel trends revealed

The report explores the travel trends of Canadians as they prepare for the summer travel season, and their impact on the tourism sector in Canada. Some of the key findings include:

  • Travellers from Central Canada (Ontario and Quebec) will spend more than those from the rest of the country ($2,459 on average).
  • Around three in four Canadians (74%) plan to stay in the country for their big summer vacation—and most plan to stay within their home region rather than make long treks.
  • The ‘shop small and local’ trend continues to shape tourism across Canada: Canadians want to support local, independent, and family-owned businesses (79%) rather than chains, multinationals, big box retailers, and large corporations (21%).
  • Prince Edward Island is expected to see the largest share of visitors from outside its region, with 78 per cent of its visitors coming from Central or Western/Northern Canada.

Canadians crave Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) travel experiences, such as cultural workshops and traditional lodgings. The report shows Indigenous-owned and -operated tourism is gaining traction, driving opportunities for Indigenous tourism businesses and communities.

Fifty-seven per cent of Canadians are likely to take part in those experiences in the future, Gen Zs (75%) and Millennials (68%) being the most eager to participate. Indigenous tourism organizations would benefit from partnering with national and provincial governments to raise further awareness and offer new experiences to travellers.

Gen Z spending the least on trips

While Gen Xs plan to spend the most on travel this year ($2,671), Gen Zs intend to spend the least ($2,100). The report also shows Gen Zs and Millennials are the biggest fans of sustainable and regenerative tourism, saying it’s important that their travel destinations and experiences demonstrate environmental sustainability in some form, such as low carbon footprints, renewable energy sources, and EV charging stations.

They are the most willing to participate in such travel experiences, and the most willing to pay for them.

“The demand for sustainable and regenerative travel is gaining momentum, but not all Canadians are willing to pay the price to help leave a place better than they found it,” adds Leslie Peterson. “Tourism businesses that can overcome greenwashing-related skepticism and explain the lasting value of sustainable travel by backing up claims with facts will foster trust in eco-friendly tourism offerings and position themselves at the leading edge of this burgeoning trend.”

Learn more about the 2024 Canadian Summer Travel Outlook here.

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.

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.

A new massive cruise terminal is opening in Florida

May 6, 2024 No Comments

Port Canaveral is building a new cruise terminal to meet the growing demands of the cruise industry.

The strategic decision to build a new multi-user cruise terminal at the Port’s existing North 8 berth provides significant cost savings, operational flexibility, and an expedited construction timeline of approximately two years to accommodate the largest ships in the world across a spectrum of brands.

Port Canaveral’s existing North 8 berth shares its basin with the Port’s Cruise Terminal 5 on the northside of Port Canaveral. Designed and built in 2018 for multi-purpose flexibility, North 8 berth will require minimal modifications to extend the current 1,020 linear feet bulkhead to 1,344 feet to accommodate large cruise vessels. Additionally, waterside improvements to the northside of the shared basin will also extend and improve the berthing capacity of Cruise Terminal 5.

Timeline for design, engineering, and construction are in development with target completion for the new facility by summer 2026. The new terminal campus will include a multi-story parking facility to accommodate up to 3,000 vehicles and roadway improvements in and out of the new facility, including turning lanes and a “flyover” ramp directly connecting the site with State Road 401.

61% of Canadians crave meaningful travel experiences

May 1, 2024 No Comments
If 2023 was the year for “revenge travel,” then 2024 is shaping up to be the year for intentional exploration.
 
A recent Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) survey conducted by YouGov reveals that 61 per cent of Canadians are planning to pack their bags within the next year—but this time with a purpose.
 
Canadians are trading impulsive getaways for mindful travel choices, seeking meaningful experiences that align with their values, aspirations—and tighter budgets. The same study reveals that 82% of respondents are opting to adapt their vacations in response to soaring costs rather than abandoning their travel plans altogether.
 

Survey highlights

Surveyed Canadians are adopting a strategic approach to their travel choices:

  • 86 per cent prioritize cost savings and exclusive deals
  • 74 per cent seek destination variety and uniqueness
  • 57 per cent value personalization and customization
    This mindset has resulted in a 35% uptick in tour bookings for 2023 over previous years, indicating the growing preference for value-centric travel experiences, with tours typically offering savings of up to 20% compared to independently booking the same itinerary.
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