Explora Journeys Launches Ocean Wellness Retreats at Sea

August 12, 2025 No Comments

For travellers who see the journey as just as transformative as the destination, Explora Journeys is setting a new course in seaborne self-care. This October and November, the luxury ocean travel brand will debut its Ocean Wellness Retreats — a series of immersive, one-day wellbeing programs offered exclusively on select Grand Journeys aboard EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II.

Designed to restore balance and inspire deeper connection, the retreats blend Eastern and Western traditions into a curated mix of yoga, breathwork, sound healing and guided reflection. Mornings might begin with Surya Shakti Yoga and pranayama practice, while evenings could unfold under the stars with a meditative Gong Bath, the ocean’s natural soundtrack in the background. Guests are welcome to join multiple sessions during their voyage, allowing the experience to evolve as the days and horizons pass.

“The Ocean Wellness Retreats exemplify how travel can nurture the mind, body and soul,” says Julanda Marais, Head of Ocean Wellness for Explora Journeys. “They invite guests to slow down and reconnect — within themselves, and with the vast, calming energy of the sea.”

The retreats will debut on two distinct sailings: EXPLORA I’s 26-day journey from Venice to Miami, weaving through Mediterranean cultural gems and Caribbean shores (October 18–November 12, 2025), and EXPLORA II’s voyage from Barcelona to Barbados via Tangier, Gran Canaria and lush Caribbean isles (November 11–22, 2025).

With the luxury of time, spacious oceanfront suites, and a bespoke program led by top wellness experts — complete with thoughtful touches like a lavender-infused eye pillow and Ocean Wellness booklet — guests can expect more than relaxation. They can expect renewal.

A Fresh Peak: Aman Debuts Rosa Alpina in Alpine Splendour

August 12, 2025 No Comments

Tucked into the storybook village of San Cassiano in Italy’s South Tyrol, Rosa Alpina has long been a cherished retreat for those in the know — a place where alpine charm meets refined hospitality. Now, under the Aman banner, this iconic property reopens after a transformative renovation, offering a new chapter in Dolomite luxury.

The relaunch blends Aman’s signature serenity and sleek design sensibility with Rosa Alpina’s deep-rooted ties to the region. Interiors by architect Luigi Vietti and designer Bambi Sloane have been subtly refreshed, honouring the building’s heritage while adding a contemporary Alpine polish. Think warm timber, natural stone, and plush textures, all framed by sweeping mountain views.

Aman Rosa Alpina‘s 52 rooms and suites — including newly reimagined accommodations in the main lodge and adjacent chalets — are havens of understated elegance. For a more private escape, the property’s standalone three-bedroom Chalet Zeno offers the ultimate hideaway, complete with its own spa area.

Epicurean experiences remain a star attraction. The hotel is home to St. Hubertus, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by Chef Norbert Niederkofler, famed for his “Cook the Mountain” philosophy that champions hyper-local, seasonal ingredients. Guests can also dine more casually at the Wine Bar & Grill or savour traditional Ladin dishes in the intimate Fondue Stube.

Wellness is equally central to the experience. The newly enhanced spa features a pool, hammam, and saunas, alongside Aman’s holistic treatments designed to soothe and revitalise after a day on the slopes or hiking trails.

With direct access to the UNESCO-listed Dolomites, the property offers year-round adventures, from skiing and snowshoeing in winter to mountain biking and alpine wildflower walks in summer. And after days spent in the crisp mountain air, evenings unfold in a world of candlelight, fine wine, and fireside relaxation.

By combining Rosa Alpina’s timeless soul with Aman’s meticulous eye for detail, Aman Rosa Alpina sets a new standard for European mountain escapes — one where authenticity and indulgence go hand in hand.

Colony Club Returns: A Fresh Chapter for a Barbados Classic

August 12, 2025 No Comments

Along the platinum sands of Barbados’ celebrated west coast, one of the island’s most beloved resorts is preparing to welcome guests once more. On September 1, 2025, Colony Club — now part of Marriott Bonvoy’s The Luxury Collection — will reopen after a thoughtful renovation, blending its signature colonial charm with a modern sense of sophistication.

Long a favourite for travellers seeking understated elegance, the reimagined Colony Club offers an updated vision of Caribbean luxury. Guest rooms and suites have been redesigned with bespoke furnishings, ocean-hued palettes and a breezy, contemporary feel, while the resort’s tropical gardens, lagoon-style pools and beachfront setting remain as captivating as ever.

New culinary experiences celebrate the island’s vibrant flavours, with menus built around locally sourced ingredients and Caribbean traditions. A revitalised spa and wellness program brings beachfront yoga, holistic treatments and serene garden spaces for quiet reflection, while enhanced pool areas create an even more inviting backdrop for leisurely afternoons.

For those eager to explore beyond the resort, Colony Club offers easy access to Barbados’ most alluring experiences — from sailing and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters to curated cultural and epicurean excursions.

Whether returning or discovering it for the first time, guests will find the Colony Club more beautiful than ever — a place where timeless elegance meets the easy rhythm of island life. Reservations are now open for stays from September 1, 2025.

Flight paths: where airlines are flying next

July 28, 2025 No Comments

If you needed a sign to start planning your next trip, this is it. Several airlines have just dropped new direct routes to destinations that hit the sweet spot between off-the-radar and just-right. Whether you’re craving coastlines, culture, or something that feels like a total escape, these new flights make it easier (and sometimes more affordable) to get there.

New routes to watch:

There’s also a buzz around Air Greenland, now flying Nuuk to Copenhagen on a fresh A330—finally connecting the Arctic capital with Europe in comfort.

Whether you’re a planner or a last-minute packer, these fresh flight paths are worth watching. 

These travel experiences are top picks for Canadians this summer—and some of them might surprise you

June 11, 2025 No Comments
Summer 2025 is shaping up to be a good one for Canadian travellers, with homegrown nature, European escapes, and meaningful experiences leading the way.
 
Booking.com has uncovered new data on Canadians’ summer travel plans. Here’s a snapshot of what’s shaping the season:
 
Travel optimism is high, with 72% of Canadian leisure travellers reporting feeling excited about exploring the world this summer, and the same amount (72%) expect to spend more on travel than they did in 2024*.
 
Canadians are keen to take advantage of renowned green spaces and biodiversity. Forty-two per cent of Canadian travellers express a desire to explore natural landscapes such as lakes, mountains and national parks. Diverse natural habitats, like the hot springs of Alberta, B.C. and Northwest Territories, and the soaring fjords and otherworldly tablelands of Gros Morne National Park, are revered by global travellers, and Canadians want to enjoy our natural gifts too!
 
Western tourism operators are set to have a great summer as accommodation searches on Booking.com from Canadian travellers are up 61% year-over-year for Kelowna and for Canmore, and 45% year-over-year for Banff.
 
Families will be on the move, as 90% of Canadian parents plan to travel at least once domestically this year, and 81% plan to travel at least once  internationally. Europe leads the international interest among parents at 48% hoping to visit, with Asia following at 21% interest.
 
And they’re seeking more than the usual sun and rest. Eighty-seven per cent of Canadian parents say they’re looking for trips that expose their children to a variety of cultures and experiences. Whether that means exploring Canada’s historic landmarks and public art installations or enjoying new types of cultural cuisines, families are looking to book trips that inspire curiosity and connection.
 

Group travel on the rise

Group travel is gaining momentum this summer, as many Canadian travellers are planning trips with friends. Leading this trend is Gen Z with 29% opting for group getaways. These younger travellers are seeking experiences that combine social connection with nature as 24% plan to prioritize activities like stargazing and outdoor adventures.

Communication will be key for groups planning to travel together however, as Canadians who travelled in a group in 2024 reported that 26% had friction around having different budgets and/or different interests during the trip, and 22% around different paces of travel (e.g. slow walking, visiting one destination vs many).
 
Love is in the air this summer as couples are increasingly valuing memorable experiences over material gifts. A significant majority across Canadian generations— 72% of millennials, 74% of Gen Z, and 69% of boomers – prefer the gift of travel to physical presents. This shift aligns with the 44% of Canadian travellers planning to take a trip with their partner this year.***
 
Now that we know a bit about who Canadians will be travelling with and what they are seeking in a summer vacation, here is where they would like to go!
 
Trending Canadian destinations for summer 2025**
 
  • Kelowna
  • Canmore
  • Banff
  • Halifax
  • Calgary
  • Toronto
  • Vancouver
  • Quebec City
  • Montreal
  • Niagara Falls

Trending global destinations for summer 2025

  • Paris, France
  • Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
  • Tokyo, Japan
  • Dubai, UAE
  • Bangkok, Thailand
  • Alicante, Spain
  • Nice, France
  • Malaga, Spain
  • Rimini, Italy
  • Dubrovnik, Croatia

Canadians invited to own one of 32 Ritz-Carlton Residences in Muskoka

June 6, 2025 No Comments

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Muskoka, is a new, private oasis where nature and hospitality meet.

Offering a rare opportunity to live on pristine waterfront property on a forested private island, the residences are nestled within one of Canada’s most storied and naturally beautiful destinations.

With only 32 architecturally distinct homes this private sanctuary, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Muskoka are designed for those seeking the most precious luxury of all: time. Here, nature takes the lead, with each residence blending seamlessly into the land —supported by the legendary service and distinctive luxury of The Ritz-Carlton.

A mainland Homeowner Residence Club—just a short boat ride away via dedicated chauffeur—provides a gathering place for wellness, activity, and connection throughout the seasons.

The design, led by Tucson-based Studio Caban and Copenhagen’s Norm Architects, is rooted in restraint and refinement. Timeless Scandinavian minimalism meets Canadian materiality—stone, light, wood, and water—in an architectural language that speaks softly but stays with you.

The residences are offered in layouts ranging from four to eight bedrooms, thoughtfully planned for multi-generational living and weekend guests. Each lot can accommodate multiple detached guest homes, creating private cabins with their own bedrooms, lounges, ensuites, and sweeping water views.

With expansive windows framing the surrounding forest and water, each home opens fully to the elements. Local granite, river stone, and wide-plank hardwoods root the interiors in place. Spacious lots offer total seclusion, while refined individual boathouses over the water provide instant access to lake life. Island trails with elevated lookouts invite slow wandering and quiet reflection or even a morning jog—while cliffs offer exhilarating plunges into the deep, clean water below. In late summer, the forest floor yields sweet wild blueberries—Muskoka’s quiet luxury, savoured steps from the front door.

Back on the mainland, the Homeowner Residence Club offers a full suite of curated amenities: a Nordic-inspired spa, tennis and pickleball courts, an archery range, indoor golf simulator and mountain bike trails carved through the trees. Children can explore a whimsical treehouse while adults enjoy private training, chef services, and grocery delivery to their docks. A communal fire pit brings neighbors together under the stars—an invitation to slow evenings, shared stories, and lasting connection.

A wine cellar and working greenhouse offer fresh herbs, while eggs, honey and rustic sourdough – all produced onsite —are ready upon arrival. A reimagined barn has been transformed into a serene, light-filled studio for yoga, pilates, and casual community connection—spaces where wellbeing feels woven into the routine.

 Environmental stewardship is a cornerstone of the project: one-third of the island is permanently protected as conservation land, while surrounding waters are preserved to support fish habitat.

Ownership opportunities are limited. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Muskoka are coming soon, with private showings starting summer 2025.

To explore availability and scheduled site visits please contact The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Muskoka sales team at: 1 (800) 482-0355  or +1 (705) 482-0402 or visit www.RCMuskoka.ca.

Aman gets ready to open its first location in the Bahamas, Amancaya

May 7, 2025 No Comments

Aman recently released details on its newest property, Amancaya, opening soon in Exuma, The Bahamas.

Bringing the revered Aman DNA of unparalleled service, awe-inspiring settings and privacy to one of the world’s most exclusive destinations in the Caribbean, the resort and branded residences will be the first location for the pioneering Aman Group in The Bahamas.

Amancaya will be set across two of the Exumas’ most secluded private cays, known for their white-sand beaches and world class diving. Meaning ‘peaceful island’ in Taíno, the property will comprise of a 36-pavilion Aman hotel and limited collection of fully-serviced Aman Residences.

Envisioned as a low-density ultra-luxury property in partnership with Swiss investor, philanthropist and sportswoman Dona Bertarelli, Amancaya will bring Aman’s coveted lifestyle to Exuma with a host of resort amenities, including a marina, Beach Club, Aman Spa and an array of dining venues across the two islands.

Amancaya is currently under construction, developed with the involvement of Squircle Capital, and will be Aman’s third property in the Caribbean region. The brand currently operates Amanera in Rio San Juan, Dominican Republic, and Amanyara in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.

The best luxury trips to take by yourself this year

April 28, 2025 No Comments

From all-inclusive dining, to ultra-luxe pampering, these six tour operators make taking a trip by yourself a true treat.

An overnight rail journey

In July 2025, Belmond will launch the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales: Britannic Explorer. The train will offer three or six-night journeys with a selection of three routes through the spectacular natural landscapes of Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales.

On board, guests can enjoy fine dining experiences by acclaimed Michelin star Chef Simon Rogan. The train, crafted in England with elegant interiors by Albion Nord, will feature 18 cabins, a wellness suite, two restaurant cars and a bar located in the Observation Car.

—belmond.com/trains/europe/uk/britannic-explore

A luxury safari camp

Opening July 2025, andBeyond Suyian Lodge is a luxury safari camp in Kenya that is set across 44,000 acres of conservation lands in the Suyian region. The luxury safari lodge features 14 spacious suites, including a family suite, each with a private plunge pool and outdoor terrace. Guests can enjoy amenities like a personal in-suite bar, outdoor showers, a wellness centre, and al fresco dining options. 

Day and night safaris can be arranged with the help of andBeyond’s expert guides. Walking safaris, camel and horseback safaris, active ranching tours are also available to book. —andbeyond.com/our-lodges

A riverboat retreat

Guided tour operator Tauck has introduced two new ships for spring 2026 that will sail along the Rhone and Reine rivers through France. The ships will accommodate a maximum of 124 and 130 guests. Suites range from 180 to 300 sq. ft. and do not require guests to pay a single supplement.

Guests have access to a dedicated Tauck cruise director and guides to provide the highest levels of service, and the itineraries offered on the new ships will be fully inclusive. Built into the price of every Tauck river cruise are all shore excursions, all gratuities, all onboard beverages (including wine, beer and spirits), arrival and departure airport transfers, all taxes and fees, and more. —tauck.ca/river-cruises

A private jet escape

With 2025 itineraries almost sold out, Four Seasons has added six new itineraries to its lineup of 2026 Private Jet Journeys. The Four Seasons Private Jet is a custom-designed Airbus A321neoLR that hosts the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience – an ongoing series of regional and round-the-world itineraries featuring flexible options for on-the-ground activities and tours, with accommodations at Four Seasons hotels and resorts. 

Every Four Seasons Private Jet itinerary includes all flights and luggage coordination, ground transfers, and in-flight meals prepared by a Four Seasons executive chef. —fourseasons.com/privateje

A personalized yacht sailing

Sailing the North and Baltic Seas of Northern Europe during summer 2025, Ilma is the newest superyacht from luxury hospitality brand, The Ritz-Carlton. Ilma offers 224 airy and intuitive suites, all with private terraces providing direct access to the sea. 

With accommodation for up to 448 guests, the yacht invites guests to discover five dining venues, a refreshed in-suite dining program, sevens bars, and a signature wine vault. Voyages typically span five to 10 nights with an all-inclusive onboard journey and curated excursions ashore to destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, and Central America. Private charter options are also available, allowing guests to craft a truly tailored journey. 

—ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com/yachts/ilma

An exhilarating expedition cruise

Ultra-luxury cruise line Seabourn’s two new ultra-luxury expedition ships, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit, are scheduled to visit up to 161 destinations in 31 countries for 2025.

Guests on both Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit are treated to a range of expedition activities led by an expert 23-person expedition team of scientists, scholars, and naturalists. The ships are also equipped with enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity with SpaceX’s Starlink. Seabourn’s all-inclusive, boutique ships offer all-suite accommodations with oceanfront views; fine dining, complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available at all times.—seabourn.com

This story first appeared in the Spring 2025 issue of OFFSHORE Travel Magazine. Click here to subscribe. Click here to view the digital edition.

Inside Chile’s The Cormorant at 55 South, the southernmost hotel on Earth

April 16, 2025 No Comments

Silversea has unveiled the first spaces and name of The Cormorant at 55 South, its new 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, scheduled to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season.

Upon completion, Silversea’s new hotel will create the most convenient, comfortable and seamless way to visit Antarctica.

The Cormorant is a nod to the unique location of the property at 55° S – making it the southernmost hotel on Earth – and an acknowledgement of the location’s history. Paying homage to Lakutaia, which is the indigenous Yahgan word for cormorant, the aquatic bird is a symbol of the seafarer and intended to bestow good fortune on guests embarking on their greatest adventure.

Immersive guest rooms

The Cormorant will feature two distinct room views, including serene forest views and tranquil water vistas overlooking the Beagle Channel. This design brings guests closer to the breathtaking natural beauty of Patagonia, immersing them in the landscapes that define this region.

Each room is thoughtfully designed with expansive windows that frame sweeping views, filling the space with natural light and creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The interiors feature warm wood tones and earthy elements, deepening the connection to the destination while creating an authentic and calming environment. To further this connection, every room will incorporate handcrafted items created by regional artisans, adding a unique touch that celebrates local and regional culture.

Welcoming guests from the moment they arrive will be The Cormorant’s own dedicated staff – all trained in The Silversea Way to provide the high level of service that is synonymous with Silversea.

Enhancing the experience

The hotel will facilitate a uniquely frictionless journey to Antarctica, allowing guests to enjoy Silversea’s personalized service and warm hospitality throughout their entire experience. Silversea’s innovative six-day Antarctica Fly Cruise expeditions allow guests to fly over the Drake Passage, providing a shorter option without compromising on the time spent in the destination.

Having pioneered luxury expedition cruising in 2008, Silversea became the first travel brand to offer luxury Antarctica expeditions. With its experience in the region, Silversea now offers the most enriching and personalized adventures on the continent, with an industry-leading expedition team that comprises up to 28 experts in their field, knowledgeable kayak instructors, world-class onboard lectures and some of the highest Zodiac-to-guest ratios in the industry, among other enriching features.

Silversea’s expedition experts host guided walks ashore, identifying wildlife species, unique glacial and geological structures, and other fascinating features only found on an Antarctic expedition. Back on board, the team’s insightful lectures provide an overview of the day’s sightings and experiences.

For more information, visit www.silversea.com/lp-fly-to-antarctica.html.

This luxury wine and private jet escape in Mexico comes with a $46K price tag

March 31, 2025 No Comments
Two of Mexico’s most prestigious brands, Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos and Casa Madero, have come together to create an unparalleled ultra-luxury wine experience.
 
As part of Velas Resorts’ Spirited Experiences, this exclusive collaboration blends the refined hospitality of Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos, an adults-only boutique hotel offering the highest level of luxury and personalized service, with the rich history and winemaking heritage of Casa Madero, the oldest winery in the Americas.
 
Tucked away in Northern Mexico, the high-altitude Coahuila wine region combines diverse soils, dramatic temperature shifts, and a blend of tradition and innovation to produce distinctive wines. Designed for discerning travelers and wine enthusiasts, this intimate, once-in-a-lifetime experience intertwines history, gastronomy, and the art of winemaking—a celebration of Mexican heritage and refined indulgence.
 

About the experience

The journey starts at Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos where guests will enjoy a three-night stay in a Grand Class King suite. Upon arrival, a bottle of Mexican wine, hand-selected based on each guest’s preferences, awaits in the 1,986 sq. ft. suite featuring a private pool and firepit for enjoying the hotel’s selection in complete privacy. 
 
A private wine tasting of Mexican wines in the hotel’s Agave Tasting Room further immerses guests in the rich viticultural heritage of not just Coahuila but also Valle de Guadalupe, Chihuahua, and other wine regions of Mexico. The experience reaches a culinary crescendo with a five-course dinner with wine pairing at Loto, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant from MICHELIN two star chef Sidney Schutte.
 
After some rest and relaxation on the Baja peninsula guests will depart Los Cabos aboard a private jet to land on Casa Madero’s private airstrip in Parras, Coahuila. Coahuila boasts a unique combination of high-altitude vineyards, mineral-rich soils, and a climate that enhances the depth and character of the wines.
 
After checking in at Casa Madero, guests embark on a guided tour of the historic vineyards and cellars. In the afternoon, a gourmet lunch highlights regional flavours before guests participate in the “Symphony of Flavors,” a tasting experience where chefs and sommeliers craft pairings of exquisite wines and haute cuisine. They will also take part in an exclusive wine workshop, where they’ll blend, bottle, and label their own personalized wine.
 
From there they will immerse in the spirit of the harvest with a traditional celebration featuring Matlachines dancers, the presence of Bacchus, and the opportunity to join the timeless ritual. To end the day, a five-course dinner curated by Casa Madero’s chef in collaboration with Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos chef showcases the flavors of the Parras Valley. The following morning, guests will enjoy a traditional breakfast at the hacienda before checking out.
 
The new Coahuila experience with Casa Madero offered by Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos is the latest addition to Velas Resorts’ curated culinary journeys, designed to immerse guests in Mexico’s diverse and evolving food and beverage scene. This exclusive experience joins a lineup of immersive gastronomic offerings, including the Fly Over Tequila Journey at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, the Over the Top Wine Experience in Valle de Guadalupe at Grand Velas Los Cabos, and the Gourmet Cenote Experience at Grand Velas Riviera Maya. By blending education, culture, and sensory exploration, Velas Resorts offers travelers an unparalleled taste of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.
 
The adults only experience is subject to availability and requires reservations to be made at least 21 days in advance. The experience starts at $46,200 USD for four people including all of the experiences listed above. For inquiries or more information please visit https://loscabosboutique.grandvelas.com/.