THE FUTURE OF LUXURY TRAVEL: Highlights From Virtuoso® Travel Week 2022
New York (October 19, 2022) – This year, more than 5,000 luxury travel professionals (from 100+ countries!) gathered in Las Vegas at Bellagio, Aria, and Vdara resorts for Virtuoso Travel Week. Virtuoso is a global network renowned for creating meaningful experiences in luxury travel, and its annual Virtuoso Travel Week serves as the pinnacle by bringing together the group’s world’s-best travel partners and the industry’s most influential travel agencies and advisors. With a laser focus on driving future sales while establishing the latest travel trends from around the world, the event sets the stage for the future of travel. Judging by the numbers, the 2022 Virtuoso Week was a tremendous success, providing measurable value to the group’s members, advisors and preferred partners. Some statistics from this year’s event:
- 98 percent of Virtuoso Week attendees said the event achieved the primary business objective of offering Virtuoso members the opportunity to network and build/further relationships with preferred partners
- 97 percent of people said that attending Virtuoso Week was a good investment of their time.
- 90 percent of attendees felt that the new eight-minute meetings were the right amount of time for the one-to-one appointments
- Globetrotting was among the highest rated events, achieving a score of 9.1 out of 10
New additions featured at this year’s event proved successful as well. For the first time, Virtuoso introduced a Technology Summit featuring speakers from well-known tech entities such as Hopper and Expedia and Virtuoso’s own Senior Vice President, Digital & Consumer Products Travis McElfresh, while also including venture capitalists that fund travel technology. Virtuoso also joined forces with Condé Nast Traveler for the first time, revealing research each brand had conducted during an hour-long panel featuring Condé Nast Traveler Senior Features Editor Rebecca Misner and Virtuoso Senior Vice President, Marketing Helen McCabe-Young.
Additional features included the first-ever Pinnacle Lounge, a by-invitation-only setting for Virtuoso’s top producing advisors to meet with select partners, the Cruise Café, and partner lounges that invited advisors in for a glimpse at various experiences they can offer. Virgin Galactic was a standout as it brought in an actual seat from its spacecraft and provided attendees with a feel for what suborbital space looks like.
As an added nod towards sustainability, this year’s event totes were responsibly made from recycled plastics pulled from oceans. Attendees also had the ability to opt out of receiving the bag and everything in it, and instead make a donation (paid for by Virtuoso) to one of three charitable organizations: World Central Kitchen, Fairtrade International and Natural Resources Defense Council.
Sustainability remains top of mind, not just for the organizers behind Virtuoso Week, but for travelers as well. Below, five other trends from this year’s event, plus the destinations to watch and must-know insider news.
This Year’s Top Travel Trends
Sustainability Remains a Top Priority
In a recent survey, 74 percent of Virtuoso travelers said they’re willing to pay more to travel sustainably if they know where their money is going. And 70 percent agreed that traveling sustainably actually enhances their vacation experience. Travelers are increasingly committed to purposeful travel, and not just in a strictly ecological sense. They’re also seeking out companies and experiences that focus on “benefitting local people and the economy” and “preserving natural and cultural heritage.”
Travelers of All Ages Are Willing to Splurge on Value-Added Services – Like a Good Travel Advisor
According to a recent Virtuoso survey, 76 percent of travelers have accepted that we’re living in a “new normal,” which explains the growing demand for – and increased value of – an expert advisor who can save travelers time, energy and the headache of sitting on the phone for hours with customer assistance. Even Millennials and Gen Zers are turning to travel advisors. “My daughter is 25 years old and she’s an advocate of using a travel professional,” said Virtuoso travel advisor Susan Bowman. “She tells everyone and her friends also agree. They appear to be a generation that gets it, and they’ve figured out that we add value.” Between navigating airport travel and handling trip logistics, many travelers are opting to work with a dedicated travel advisor. “One of the simplest definitions of luxury goes like this: ‘Of course I can do it myself. I don’t want to’,” said Matthew D. Upchurch, Chairman and CEO of Virtuoso. “Travelers want to find someone who really knows what they’re doing, has great connections, saves time and has their back.”
Travelers are Back to Planning Ahead
With people hitting the road in record numbers, there’s never been so much frenzy around booking flights and hotels. In response to this pent-up demand, travelers are now booking their trips an average of 58 days in advance for domestic hotel stays, and 80 days for international trips (compared to 2019’s 44 and 60 days, respectively). “We’ve seen so much last-minute demand and literally the space is not there,” said Virtuoso advisor Beth Washington. “We’re seeing people now willing to think about things for 2023 instead of planning so last-minute.”
Off-Season Travel is Gaining Steam
If it seemed like everyone was in Europe this summer that’s because they were. According to a Virtuoso poll, seven of the top ten international destinations this summer were in Europe, with Italy and France leading the way. The surge in bookings has some destinations, like Italy, concerned about the effects of overtourism. As a result, travel professionals in Italy – the second-most popular spot for fall travel – are urging travelers to visit in the off-season. It’s a win-win for destinations and for travelers who get to see beloved places without the crowds. In a recent survey, the majority of Virtuoso travelers said they’d be willing to visit a popular destination during the off-season. Virtuoso’s own editors suggest booking a room at Passalacqua, the new Lake Como villa from hotelier Valentina De Santis and the Grand Hotel Tremezzo team, which is open year-round – a rarity in the Lake Como region.
The Destinations to Watch
Palm-fringed beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, island-hopping. No, we’re not talking about the Maldives, but India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Located on the southeastern edge of the Bay of Bengal, the archipelago is known for its spectacular diving and bioluminescent waters, which travelers can experience with nighttime kayaking off Havelock Island.
About a 45-minute drive north of Cabo San Lucas is the East Cape, a relatively unknown stretch on the Sea of Cortés where a new Four Seasons resort has just landed. According to the tourism board, the destination is a nature lover’s dream, situated near the Cabo Puma National Marine Park, a UNESCO Marine World Heritage site.
All eyes are on Greenland! Silversea is set to launch new itineraries in the Arctic country—the world’s largest island—next year, with other cruise lines, including Quark and Lindblad, set to expand their offerings.
Virtuoso on-site tour connection Access Italy let Virtuoso in on one of their hidden gems: the beautifully preserved hilltop village of Civita di Bagnoregio. Located between Rome and Florence, the medieval town is only accessible by a pedestrian bridge. And as for right now, it remains blissfully under-the-radar.
More Insider News from the Week
One of the best ways to plan for future travels is by creating a Wanderlist and sharing it with a Virtuoso advisor, who can make dreams of pearl harvesting in Australia or taking a private tour of Georgia O’Keeffe’s home and studio a reality. Virtuoso tapped into its worldwide network to find out what else was on the experiential horizon for its global citizens.
A new camp inspired by astronauts is touching down in Antarctica in December. Echo, from super high-end tour operator White Desert, will comprise six futuristic sleeping pods and a common area inspired by a visit from Buzz Aldrin and co-founder Patrick Woodhead’s love of Star Wars. The experience runs $104,000 per person and includes an excursion to the South Pole and private flights to and from the ice landing strip on the property’s doorstep.
On November 3, Auberge Resorts will open a relaxed surf retreat in Punta de Mita, on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Susurros del Corazón will feature 59 rooms and 30 villas clustered around a three-tier infinity-edge pool, which fronts a glorious white-sand beach. Activities include a “surf safari” that will take guests to lesser-known beaches with consistent breaks and little-to-no crowds.
Fiuggi, Italy is the setting of The Ranch’s newest outpost. The wellness retreat will offer weeklong detoxes and hikes along ancient trade pilgrimage routes.
Armendaris is the newest addition to Ted Turner Reserves, known for its sustainable wildlife preserves in the American Southwest. The four-bedroom hacienda is situated on 360,000 acres in New Mexico’s Chihuahuan Desert and comes with a private chef plus experiences like nature photography workshops, wildlife tours and mountain biking.
Iceland is due to get its first rooftop bar! Next spring, the Reykjavik Edition will debut a rooftop perch where guests can sip cocktails while taking in the Northern Lights.
In November, Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Palace will unveil six vegan suites, constructed without animal products and featuring vegan menus and amenities.
Starting this fall, guests of Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole can hop a private plane and discover a remote corner of Yellowstone National Park, where they’ll meet with an expert naturalist to learn about the area’s elusive gray wolves – and maybe even see a few up close.
Safari operator Singita has created art galleries at its Sabi Sand and Kruger National Park Lodges. These spaces will showcase the work of pre-eminent and emerging African artists. The initiative is part of Singita’s overarching mission to celebrate and incorporate local culture into its offerings.
# # #
About Virtuoso
Virtuoso® is the leading global travel agency network specializing in luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 1,200 travel agency locations with more than 20,000 travel advisors in over 50 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred relationships with more than 2,200 of the world’s best hotels and resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. Normalized annual sales of (U.S.) $25-$30 billion make Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry. For more information, visit www.virtuoso.com.
andBeyond’s Sossusvlei Desert Lodge will open in October
In August, travelers will “go dark” to experience a destination’s wonders in a new light – or, more accurately, without any:
What’s New
andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge: Opening October 16, andBeyond Sossusvlei Lodge in Namibia is located in Africa’s only International Dark Sky Reserve. Guests will have the rare opportunity to observe the southern hemisphere stars from one of the darkest and most protected skies in the world. Each evening, guests are invited to join the lodge’s resident astronomer in the on-site observatory – complete with a Meade LX200R 12-inch telescope – to view the brightest constellations and planets across the inky black night sky.
The Dupont Circle: Named for its downtown DC neighborhood, the recently relaunched Dupont Circle has undergone a Washington Monumental renovation. The team is putting the finishing touches on the final projects, including the Clodagh-designed 3,000 sq. ft. Penthouse Suite, which will open mid-August. Located on the rooftop floor, the space will include a heated private terrace with a firepit and projector for al fresco movie nights. The suite will comprise two master bedrooms and a large living and dining area, including a fireplace, wet bar, dining table, and lounge area perfect for hosting social gatherings.
Nayara Tented Camp: When it opens on December 20, Nayara Tented Camp in Costa Rica will be one of the first luxury camps in Central America. Guests will be able to experience evening frog-watching tours to see the tiny red-eye tree frogs, as well as other nocturnal species like bats and howler monkeys.
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi: New as of July 1, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is the brand’s first location in the Maldives, boasting 122 villas on the sea. The spa features a starlight ocean massage as a part of its signature treatments. Guests can drift away under the Maldivian stars in the outdoor spa pavilion, as they relax to the sound of the gently lapping waves.
Starry, Starry Night
The Belmond Royal Scotsman will take guests on a late-night, starry excursion.
James Taylor said it best, “At night the stars, they put on a show for free.” This summer, travel to one of these dark destinations to take time to stare up at the night sky, learn about constellations, and even catch a falling star.
Botswana: Each of the Belmond Safari lodges – Belmond Khwai River Lodge, Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge, and Belmond Eagle Island Lodge – allows guests the opportunity to experience the vast dome of Botswana’s uninterrupted night sky. Guests will learn how the local tribes used the stars for navigation while taking in the beauty of the local landscape.
Scotland: Great Scott! The UK is fast becoming a popular place to enjoy a clear, dark evening. Belmond Royal Scotsman, Scotland’s only luxury sleeper train, has announced bespoke excursions that take guests off the rails and into the wilds of Scotland. Among the options is stargazing in the Cairngorms of the Scottish Highlands, one of the darkest skies in Europe. Guests can explore the area with a certified astrologer who will introduce them to the constellations while they enjoy a late-night picnic.
New York City: The unlikeliest of stargazing spots may just provide the best perspective on the night. Head to The Chatwal to catch the famous Persides Meteor Shower from one of the hotel’s 14 open-air terraces. The annual summertime shower peaks the evening of August 12-13 with a predicted 50–75 meteors per hour, making it the most likely time you’ll see a shooting star in New York City. And if the city lights are just too bright, the stars around the block at Broadway’s famous theaters can fill the void.
California: Stargaze while you float at Napa Valley’s Solage Calistoga, a contemporary oasis with a spa that offers an evening open-air floating meditation called Aqua Vibrations. Guests sits in a mesh chair, partially submerged in the geothermal mineral pool (96 to 98 degrees), where they can gaze at the stars and moon.
Mexico: Bring the indoors outside in Mexico. Each of the 41 villas at Viceroy Riviera Maya comes with its own private moon shower. The luxurious space is a garden oasis surrounded by a bamboo fence and tropical plantings, with a dedicated space for keeping towels dry. Is there any better way to bathe than in nature under the stars?
The Hamptons: Anyone who has ever driven in the Hamptons knows how dark the night sky can be out east. Take in the stars at Shou Sugi Ban House, where each evening concludes with an outdoor fire circle to wind down with hot tea and live music. Retreat guests can also take part in fireside chats with occasional special guest speakers.
Going Dark
Enjoy a digital detox at Nayara Springs in Costa Rica
In today’s hyper-connected world, going off the grid has become a popular – and some say necessary – way to travel. The reasons for disconnecting are endless: it provides time to get in touch with nature, to explore new hobbies, to focus on personal well-being, and to reconnect with friends. If you’re seeking a digital detox, check out the below suggestions for going dark on your next vacation:
I’ve Got the Power: Scratch that. Reverse it. “No power” is the theme for 2019 at UXUA Casa Hotel and Spa’s new Trails for Trancoso initiative. The program, which was developed by UXUA and is 100% financed by the property, creates car-free, green corridors connecting local attractions, beaches and neighborhoods in Trancoso, Brazil. Residents and tourists alike can enjoy a safe and sustainable transportation network via foot, bike, and horseback. The results are clear: 99% of guests don’t rent cars; and 85% of staff members arrive to work by foot or bicycle. Local sourcing allows delivery of many foods and supplies by pulled carts or canoe rather than powered vehicles. The program has cultural significance: UXUA sits on the 500-year-old, automobile-free Historic Quadrado.
A Treat for a Better Sleep: Park Hyatt Tokyo’s Good Night Sleep Stretch, a complimentary 30-minute program, is designed to prepare the body for restful sleep. The teacher-led class takes place in a candlelit fitness room overlooking the city from the 47th floor. It consists of slow stretches and breathing exercises to loosen muscles and bring the body into equilibrium. Across the world in New York City, guests at The Chatwal have access to nine 12-minute yoga classes led by Eddie Stern (Gwyneth Paltrow’s yoga and spiritual guru) via in-room iPads.
Skin in the Game: Did you know that your screens are aging your skin? Guinot’s new Sun Logic (available in SPF 20 and SPF 30) is an anti-aging sunscreen that protects the skin not only from harmful UVA and UVB rays, but also from blue light rays from TVs, computers, and mobile phones – keeping skin safe both in the office and at the beach.
Spring Awakening: With Nayara Springs’ Digital Detox, guests are invited to lock away their tablets, smart phones, and laptops and unwind with daily yoga and meditation, a Nature Escape Spa package (hot stone massage, facial, and relaxation time in the natural mineral hot springs), and a birdwatching tour. If you’re too anxious to have your phone under lock and key, start with baby steps and enjoy evening candlelight yoga at the rainforest yoga pavilion. The natural background sounds of chirping tree frogs and a babbling stream below sets the tone for low-impact poses designed to relax the body in preparation for sleep.
Tub and Tonic: At the newly opened Shou Sugi Ban House wellness retreat in the Hamptons, guests are encouraged to return to the simplicity of self. They’ll end each evening with a soak and sleep tonic before bed. Each guest studio is outfitted with either a modern air massage soaking tub or Japanese soaking tub, called Hinoki ofuro.
A No Phone Zone: Nantucket Island Resort’s The Wauwinet encourages guests to stay in the moment and enjoy the view without distraction by restricting phone use while relaxing on the green lawn.
Midnight Snacks
Enjoy a midnight snack on your own private terrace at The Chatwal, New York
Midnight snacks don’t have to be taboo. Instead, think of late-night dining as the ultimate vacation indulgence: a chance to eat and drink in an off-the-beaten path location at an off-beat hour.
Morocco: At the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, guests of Royal Mansour can enjoy a starry night away from the busy lights of Marrakech. Following a private tour on 4×4 vehicles, guests can indulge in sunset cocktails and a gourmet dinner in their own private camp, served with just the glow of candles, torches, and a blanket of stars above.
Paris: Located just off the Champs-Elysées, La Réserve Paris offers a decidedly luxurious take on the midnight snack. The concierge can coordinate a private midnight dinner in the closed Grand Palais, which is located across the street from the property. Afterward, guests can fall asleep in two very distinct accommodations – the hotel with its 19th century Parisian living style, or the affiliated apartments with a more contemporary French experience.
Antarctica: Dine under the midnight sun in the Antarctic Circle with PONANT’s ‘Beyond the Polar Circle’ sailings. The 17-day/16-night journey takes guests roundtrip from Ushuaia, Argentina, with ports of call including New Island, one of the most remote islands in the Falkland archipelago and home to the world’s largest colony of thin-billed prions. Outings and shore visits to the Antarctic Peninsula led by a team of experienced naturalist guides are also available.
South Africa: Guests at andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve can spend a magical night dining and sleeping under the stars. After a leisurely game drive, arrive at a romantic camp in the middle of the bush where you’ll enjoy dinner al fresco before retiring to a luxurious sleep setup that includes duvets and warm blankets draped with billowing mosquito nets.
New York City: If you get caught between the moon and New York City, the best thing you can do is have a campfire. Seriously. At The Chatwal, guests can request a fire pit with a customizable s’mores kit to create a delectable midnight treat on one of the 14 signature terraces.
St. Barth: Midnight snack? Let’s add in: midnight dancing on tables. Just a quick walk away from The Christopher, St. Barth is Le Ti St. Barth, the popular restaurant with dinner and a cabaret show every night. Enjoy a quiet sunset by the pool before heading out to let your hair down.
Barcelona: It’s a well-known fact that locals in Barcelona eat dinner late. Very late. Ease into the tradition with a stay at Almanac Barcelona, where the on-site Azimuth Rooftop Bar serves food – and a BBQ in the summer months – until 11 p.m. and drinks until 1 a.m. The glass-enclosed lounge offers panoramic views of Barcelona, perfect for a night cap. The short walk down to your room to promptly head to bed ensures a smooth adjustment to Barcelona time.
Jamaica: A beverage named for the inky black sky – how chic! Head to any one of the Island Outpost properties in Jamaica and sip on the Black Storm, a cocktail made from Blackwell Rum, ginger beer and bitters. Island Outpost is a collection of hotels that includes GoldenEye, Ian Fleming’s retreat and where the author wrote all 14 of the James Bond novels.
Your home: You don’t have to travel far to indulge in a special midnight snack. Available worldwide for online ordering direct, La Maison du Chocolat’s Bien Etre collection packs all of the chocolate flavor without the guilt. Translating to “well-being,” Bien Être is collection of naturally sweetened, dairy-free and gluten-free fruit ganaches. New this year is a snack-sized edition that’s perfect for satisfying on-the-go sweets cravings.
Costa Rica’s Nayara Tented Camp will open in December 2019.
(Water) Current Events
A sprinkling of “what’s new” in the water world of luxury hospitality:
July 1 marks the opening of Waldorf Astoria’s first post in the Maldives, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. The property is a water-lover’s paradise, with 122 villas on the sea – 39 beach, 24 reef, and 56 overwater. In addition, there are two Stella Maris Ocean Villas, which are one-bedroom duplex accommodations that are accessible by a traditional boat called a dhoni. The most indulgent option is the Ithaafushi Private Island, which combines a two-bedroom overwater villa, a three-bedroom beach villa, two pools for adults and one for kids, an overwater spa and wellness center, an entertainment center with cinema, and a dedicated team of chefs.
La Réserve Ramatuelle opened for the season on April 18 and introduced a new beach club on St. Tropez’s famous Pampelonne Beach. Designed by Philipe Starck, La Réserve à La Plage includes 75 sunbeds and a 120-seat beachfront restaurant overseen by the resort’s Michelin-starred chef.
Nantucket’s Wauwinet and Serena & Lily have partnered to present The Anchorage House by Serena & Lily. Opened on June 1, the redesigned three-bedroom guest cottage is located on the northeast end of the island between two private beaches – one on the Atlantic Ocean and one on the Bay. Evoking the feeling of a private beach house, the cottage features a palette of navy and golden-sand hues, as well as woven basket textures that embrace the home’s coastal charm.
Ponant’s newest vessel, Le Dumont-d’Urville, will make her debut on August 7 with an eight-night sailing called the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea. The fourth vessel in the Ponant Explorer series, the yacht-like ship will be outfitted with the Blue Eye Lounge – an underwater lounge with the feel of a submarine. The multi-sensory experience allows guests to see sea life through the whale-eye shaped portholes; while the seats and floor move in unison with the sounds of the water.
Sea turtle nesting season runs from June through September, and guests of Belmond Jimbaran Puri can provide hands-on help to ensure their safe journey into the ocean. Nature-lovers will adopt and name the turtles, visit the Turtle Conservation and Education Centre in Serangan to learn more about the protection of these endangered animals, and then give the newly hatched babies a helping hand into the sea.
Wombat Charter Tours in Napa Valley now offers small-boat sunset tours and cruises of the lower Napa River and the surrounding southern wetlands of the Napa-Sonoma Marsh Wildlife Preserve, as well as guided fishing charter excursions complete with gear and expert guidance.
When andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge reopens in the Namib Desert in October 2019, its water recycling system will recycle more than 26,417 gallons of grey water a month. By bottling water on site and using recyclable glass bottles, the lodge saves a significant amount of CO² per month, absorbing the carbon footprint of the delivery truck used to bring in bottled water and eliminating more than 45,000 plastic water bottles. The brand aims to install a water bottling plant at 100% of their lodges by 2020.
Nayara Tented Camp will open in December 2019 as one of the first luxury camps in Central America – complete with seven interconnecting, private hot springs dotted around two acres of rainforest at the peak of the mountain.
You’re Gonna Need a Bigger Boat
Stay dry high above the trees when you dine at Terra at the new Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.
Is there any better way to spend summer than on a boat? This July, get “rowed over” by these aquatic offerings, with by-the-sea properties that invite guests to shun their inner landlubber and get on the water.
The Coast(est) with the Most(est): A trip to the Mediterranean isn’t complete without a visit to the Amalfi Coast, and Belmond makes getting there a (sea)breeze. See the famous Italian villages when you stay at Belmond Villa Margherita and Belmond Hotel Caruso, as both offer guests a complimentary boat ride to the Amalfi Coast.
Lake Life: Set on the shores of Lac Léman (Lake Geneva), La Réserve Geneva makes it easy for guests to get to and from the city center on the hotel’s private – and super chic – Venetian Motoscafo boat. After a quick, 15-minute ride, guests can visit the art gallery neighborhood, stroll through trendy Quartier des Bains, enjoy a cappuccino on the terrace of the iconic café Clémence, and shop in the town of Bon Génie.
Elite Fleet: Nantucket’s White Elephant has teamed up with Barton & Gray Mariners Club to offer the White Elephant/Barton & Gray Hinckley, which guests can charter for half- or full-day private cruises. The 36-foot classic yacht, named “True Blue III,” is clad in navy, white, and elephant-printed fabric, mirroring the interior design of the White Elephant. Barton & Gray is a member-only yacht service, but guests of Nantucket Island Resorts also have the rare opportunity to charter their full fleet.
An Offer You Can’t Refuse: Depart from Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea and cruise by the famed Isola Bella and Giardini Naxos – make sure to spot the railway station made famous in the third episode of The Godfather – before continuing onto the small fishing village of Acitrezza for a peek into the world of master ship making with a tour of the Rodolico family boatyard. The final stop is Catania, Sicily’s second largest city, for a whirlwind walk through the lively La Pescheria fish market and an Italian lunch with Rosalba Cutore and her family, longtime friends of the Trewhella’s, whose villa became Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea.
One fish, two fish: As part of the hotel’s efforts to preserve the fragile ecosystems of Trancoso’s beaches and marine life, UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa completely finances the Trancoso Fisherman’s Association – a collective of 10 fishing boats and over 100 fishermen committed to using traditional net-less and pole-less fishing practices. Guests can learn to fish with a member of the Fisherman’s Association and have their catch prepared at the hotel by Chef Bernardo Silva.
Eat Your Pie in the Sky: Now that it’s open, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi’s 11 specialty-concept dining venues offer the largest culinary selection in the Maldives. The highlight is Terra: seven private dining pods on a treetop overlooking the Indian Ocean. Six can accommodate couples, and one is designed for a group of four diners. The restaurant will feature a multi-course meal with wine pairings.
Under the Sea: GoldenEye in Jamaica offers daily complimentary glass bottom boat rides to explore Ian Fleming’s beloved reef and learn about the property’s efforts to preserve the coral.
Hang 10…
Where there’s a will, there’s a way—to surf
Just one year from now, surfing will be a part of the 2020 Olympics in Japan for the first time ever. With Park Hyatt Tokyo as your home base, you’re sure to get stoked watching the top surfers in the world rip through the breaks at Shidashita Beach, 40 miles east of downtown and the site of the Olympic competition. To some, Japan may seem like an under-the-radar surf spot. Below are four other places where you might not expect to be able to ride the waves – check them out to have a swell time.
Barcelona: Sagrada Familia. Salsa. Siesta. And Surfing. The closest surfing spot in Barcelona is just a 15-minute walk away from Las Ramblas. Avoid the crowds and head to the open seas. The waves at Barceloneta are long and perfect for beginners, as the shifting sandbars cause them to break both to the right and the left. Nearby, in the Eixample district, Almanac Barcelona’s concierge can arrange for your own surf board to be shipped from (and back) home; or the hotel can book a rental ready to be picked up right on the beach at the Barceloneta.
Charleston: For those who don’t want to get caught up with the kooks in California, Charleston’s break is consistently named one of the top spots on the East Coast. Or, more accurately, Folly Beach, which is just 12 miles south of the Holy City. The waves are 20- to 30-percent bigger than other beaches in the area, but Folly is still known as a good place for beginners (a.k.a. groms) and more seasoned salts who want to perfect their form. After a day of wiping out and getting caught on the inside, Belmond Charleston Place offers the ultimate in après surf—be it a relaxing spa experience or a much-deserved Southern meal.
New York City: It’s the most densely populated area in the U.S., but surfing in New York City is alive and well. (If you don’t trust us, check out the @nysea Instagram account – the handle is a wonderful play on words, and the surf photos will get you stoked.) Among the popular subway-accessible spots is Rockaway Peninsula, just 18 miles from Chatwal, New York’s prime Midtown Manhattan location. For visitors with a bit less time on their hands, a 20-minute walk due west of Chatwal will lead you to Manhattan Kayak Co. on the Hudson River, which rents out kayaks and stand up paddleboards.
Nantucket: Surfing in Nantucket? ACK-tually, yes! Nantucket offers one of the most consistent breaks in the northeast, as the island is all sand and sandbars. And with increased JetBlue flights from Westchester and LaGuardia this summer, the Grey Lady is closer than ever. Two of the more popular beaches is Surfside and Nobadeer, where big breaks can attract big crowds. For more info on where to go – and how to book surf lessons – check with the concierge at Nantucket Island Resorts.
…But Stay Out of the Shark Tank
Dine anywhere, at any time, at Viceroy Rivera Maya
Everyone who has a television knows that Shark Week is coming. The annual Discovery Channel series premieres July 28, and watching even an hour of programming is enough to make you a landlubber forever. (For an even more frightful experience, follow @MaryLeeShark on Twitter to re-live the adventures of Mary Lee, a shark tagged off the coast of Cape Cod in 2012). If you love the sea but are fearful of being turned into shark bait – the chant, “Fish are friends, not food” doesn’t apply in the real world – waterfront dining is the perfect compromise. So, if “everybody out of the water” is your mantra right now, check out these seaside dining destinations:
Cork: Overlooking the River Weir below, the recently renovated River Club Terrace in Cork, Ireland has been transformed into an urban hideaway, decorated with tropical ferns and hanging pink blossoms made for Instagram.
St. Barth: Located above the rocky shoreline of the sought-after neighborhood of Pointe Milou (home to the raucous Le Ti Saint Barth and some of the poshest villas on the island), The Christopher has long been a refuge for those in-the-know, as it’s famed for its understated elegance. The refreshed Christo Lounge Restaurant by Chef Nicolas Tissier is situated on the cliff overlooking the Carribbean Sea, featuring a healthy concept menu focusing on organic meats and vegetables. Its sunset lounge Mango Beach Club provides a prime spot to watch the sun go down while drinking a traditional Planteur or Ti Punch, both island favorites.
Venice: Looking out over the Guidecca Canal, with St. Mark’s Basilica in the distance, Cip’s Club at Belmond Hotel Cipriani is a favorite among guests and locals alike for an aperitivo and traditional Venetian fare. Hotel Cipriani is welcome respite from the crowds in Venice, as guests arrive via the hotel’s private dock before weaving through the property’s gardens and onto the floating terrace. Make sure to have a Bellini (or two) – Venice’s signature cocktail was invented by Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of Belmond Hotel Cipriani, in 1948. For a fine-dining affair, the canal-side Michelin-starred Oro Restaurant offers just 41 seats and inventive Italian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients from the hotel’s own farm and nearby islands.
Nantucket: Topper’s, the restaurant at The Wauwinet on Nantucket, is best reached by boat. If you book brunch or dinner at the hotel, visitors can take the complimentary hour boat ride across the bay, departing from the White Elephant.
Jamaica: GoldenEye’s Gazebo is a sight to behold. Built in an airy treehouse style, the restaurant overlooks Low Cay Beach and the Lagoon. Serving up local favorites like Butter Lion Fish, the restaurant also sources produce from the hotel’s 2,500-acre farm, Pantrepant, which is located in the heart of Jamaica.
Anguilla: Guests can swim to breakfast at Belmond Cap Juluca from their beachfront suite directly over to the waterfront eatery Cip’s by Cipriani, where they will be met at the water’s edge with a fresh robe and fruit juice in hand.
Mexico: Viceroy Riviera Maya allows guests to ‘dine anywhere, anytime’ – from the poolside to the ocean pier – with a personalized menu to suit their occasion, tastes, and setting.
January AMPR Newsletter
What’s New?
For the first time in its 30-year history, The Wauwinet on Nantucket will undergo a multi-million-dollar renovation including a complete overhaul of all 32 guestrooms and bathrooms and updates to the property’s three intimate cottages and the lobby’s library, reopening in April 2019.
Surrounded by the mountains and sand dunes of the Namib Desert, andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge will reopen after a complete refurbishment on October 15, 2019 with floor-to-ceiling glass walls to take in the dramatic desert landscape.
Fresh off a top-to-bottom refurbishment, The Christopher Hotel will launch three new villas in 2019, each featuring four bedrooms and a private swimming pool.
Belmond British Pullman is hosting a Mary Poppins Returns-inspired afternoon tea journey on February 16, 2019. Families will enjoy balloon artists, face painters, and magicians as the train passes through the British countryside.
This spring, The River Lee in Cork, Ireland will unveil a new look for the lobby, restaurant, bar, and terrace, spearheaded by O’Donnell O’Neill Design.
PONANT will host a gastronomy and wine cruise in partnership with Ducasse Conseil and Chateau Latour aboard L’Austral from April 13-22, 2019. The ten-day sailing, ‘Gastronomy, Vineyards, and Grands Crus’ from Lisbon to Portsmouth will feature ports of call in Porto, Bordeaux, and Pauillac and two gala dinners hosted by chefs Xavier Boireau and Francis Fauvel.
Guinot launched its Anti-Dark Spot Serum this month, a new two-week treatment that uses pure Vitamin C to reduce and brighten dark spots caused by sun exposure and aging.
Carneros Resort and Spa in Napa has completed a renovation of its 94 cottages and suites – all featuring redesigned interiors and exteriors, new furnishings, and relaunched outdoor terraces that are complete with gas fire pits, portable mini-projectors, and telescopes.
La Maison du Chocolat has created a new line of Valentine’s Day confections for this season’s Parisian Dream collection available in boutiques and online on January 24.
Cool Hangout Spots for the Littlest Travelers
Suspended in the treetops amid the 10-acre park at La Réserve Geneva is La Petit Réserve. Free for kids ages six-months to 13-years, including local day guests, the kid’s club has a wooden obstacle course, swings and slide, and a suspension bridge that connects to a treehouse complete with a fireman’s pole, game tables, toys, puzzles, and a coloring station.
Royal Mansour’s dedicated Kids Club, Le Jardin de Lila, turns little ones into global citizens with Moroccan art activities, Arabic lessons, and a complimentary children’s book following Lila, a young girl exploring the hotel’s winding passageways and gardens.
Belmond Reid’s Palace on Madeira welcomes its younger guests to partake in fun activities housed in a traditional Santana cottage with a private kids’ swimming pool where swimming and gymnastics classes can be arranged.
andBeyond’s Bateleur Camp on Kenya’s Maasai Mara offers their fun and educational WILDchild program for the smallest safari-goers. Kids can learn to identify animal tracks and droppings, learn to build a fire the Masai way, and do some fun games and activities while learning about conservation and the role they can play in protecting the world’s fauna.
With treasure hunts and coconut bowling for the 4-12 set and ping pong tournaments and sailing school for tweens and teens, St. Lucia’s Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort’s Sugar Club and Spice Club offer kids their own version of paradise.
AMPR’s Guide to Wellness Travel for 2019
Thanks to its relaxing and mood-enhancing effects, CBD is a trending ingredient in spa treatments, especially prevalent in Napa Valley. Travelers in the region can choose from a selection of CBD wellness massages at Spa Terra at The Meritage Resort or enjoy a sound healing therapy paired with a CBD-infused wrap at Mount View Hotel & Spa.
Viceroy Riviera Maya’s resident shaman oversees the Jardin Pak’al, the garden where he grows herbs used to treat guests at the Wayak Spa. In the K’óben (Mayan herb kitchen), he has individual consultations with the guests to determine their preferences and needs, before creating a personalized healing experience for them held next to a waterfall.
andBeyond’s new Bhutan Yoga Retreat Small Group Journey allows travelers to immerse themselves in the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. Highlights of this 10-day journey include yoga and meditation, hiking Tiger’s Nest monastery in Paro, and exploring the fortresses and temples of Thimphu and Punakha, all led by an expert guide and specialist healing facilitator to help guests find balance of the mind, body, and soul.
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, La Reserve Geneve’s Nescens Spa is the city’s largest spa, at 20,000 square-feet. Travelers looking to improve their ski, tennis, or golf performance can take part in the special Fitness Preparation Program, which combines coaching, treatment, and nutrition.
Royal Mansour has introduced Bespoke Hammam Treatments where each step of the traditional technique is personalized to the specific skincare needs of each guest using locally sourced ingredients – including purifying clay from the Atlas Mountains and roses from the Kalaat Megouana valley.
Guests at Sugar Beach can get fit with the Piton Recovery, which starts with a hike of the Gros Piton. After descending from the peak, hikers are met by one of Sugar Beach’s personal trainers for a stretching session, rehydration with coconut water, and revitalizing snack of potassium-rich bananas before have a muscle releasing massage back at the spa.
As part of The Chatwal, New York’s partnership with yoga and spiritual guru Eddie Stern, travelers will enjoy a new wellness program featuring nine 12-minute yoga sessions focusing on breathing techniques that balance the central nervous system, available complimentary through the in-room iPads.
Guests at The Marylebone have complimentary access to Third Space, an on-site members-only health club. Guests can snag a coveted spot in the popular group fitness classes and use the 60-foot indoor lap pool – finishing with a healthy smoothie from The Juicery.
Nayara Springs’ new Wellness Program incorporates healthful menus, yoga and meditation, and spa treatments so guests return home thoroughly relaxed and restored.
Not Your Typical Spring Break Destinations
Instead of the Caribbean or skiing, here are places you may not have considered…
Travelers who want an authentic St. Patrick’s Day experience can avoid the Dublin crowds and visit The River Lee in Cork, where a family-friendly three-day festival from March 16-18 offers parades, food, and music.
In March 2019, travelers can join a six-day Oceans Without Borders Small Group Journey to andBeyond Vamizi Island to participate in fish tagging and measuring and monitoring reef systems. Guests will learn what it takes to be an andBeyond dive instructor or a marine biologist, spend time in the local community, and enjoy water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling – with all proceeds supporting Oceans Without Borders.
Almanac Barcelona opened in February 2018 just steps from buzzing Passeig de Gracia. While Azimuth, the penthouse bar with 360-degree views of the city, is popular with locals, the rooftop pool and sun lounge are reserved for guests only. March and April temperatures are in the mid-60’s and it’s just before the summertime tourist rush.
Nearing the end of rainy season, safari-goers will enjoy the greener landscape and abundance of wildlife in Botswana at Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge. The newly reimagined lodge now features a viewpoint overlooking the watering hole in Chobe National Park, where guests can enjoy breakfast with a front-row seat to the passing elephants.
Dallasites can take advantage of the new direct Air France flight route launching on March 31, 2019, between Dallas/Fort Worth and Paris, and stay in the city’s 16th arrondissement at the La Réserve Paris Apartments. Families staying in the Apartments have the option to cook at home in the large chef’s kitchen, have exclusive access to the Roland Garros tennis courts (home to the French Open), and can ride bikes to enjoy an al fresco picnic lunch along the Seine.
Napa Valley continues to celebrate Cabernet Season through April. For adults in the know, this is the best time to visit – think smaller crowds, special hotel deals and winery experiences, and brilliant yellow wild mustard flowers, purple lupine, golden California poppies, and crimson clover are scattered through the vineyards and along country lanes.
Tokyo turns pink during the Cherry Blossom Festival from March 23 – April 27. Park Hyatt Tokyo is near several parks where guests can stroll under the pastel petals.
For an adventurous and warm spring break destination, visit Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano Park. Guests at Nayara Springs can have tours organized for ziplining, white water rafting, and waterfall hikes, among others, observe a variety of wildlife including sloths at the on-site sanctuary, and then relax on property with daily yoga, by their private plunge pool, or at the spa.
…and don’t forget to get a sun-kissed glow before heading out for vacation with Guinot’s AutoBronze, an easy-to-apply tinted gel creating an even and natural-looking bronze without leaving streaks.
Calendar
February
February 14, 2019: Belmond British Pullman’s Valentine’s Day lunch
February 8-16, 2019: In celebration of New York Fashion Week, Jacques at The Lowell will be offering a Fashion Week-inspired cocktail menu with drinks inspired by famous designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Chanel, and of course, Yves Saint Laurent (former owner of the Majorelle gardens).
February 16, 2019: Belmond British Pullman’s Mary Poppins Returns-inspired afternoon tea journey
February 2019: Guinot launches its new Lift Summum Treatment designed to firm and smooth the delicate skin of the face, neck, and chest.
March
Spring 2019: The Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C. relaunches its new bar, lobby, and Dupont Suite after a multi-million dollar renovation.
March 2019: Guinot launches its new Clean Logic Range, a cleansing skincare regimen formulated with anti-aging properties suited for fragile skin.
March 2019: andBeyond’s first Oceans Without Borders Small Group Journey departs for andBeyond Vamizi Island
March 3, 2019: Napa Valley Marathon
March 15-18, 2019: Yountville Live is a four day event celebrating music, food, and wine with programming including cooking classes, wine-paired dinners, a red carpet gala, a street festival, and live music throughout the weekend.
March 21-24, 2019: Stay with The Christopher Hotel during the annual St. Barth Bucket
March 26 – April 5, 2019: During Easter break, Sugar Beach offers a variety of children’s programming including tie-dying, chocolate making, boat tours, and an Easter egg hunt.
March 27 – April 7, 2019: Tokyo turns pink during the Cherry Blossom Festival
April
April 2019: The Wauwinet reopens following a multi-million-dollar renovation
April 2019: Napa Valley Arts in April
April 1, 2019: andBeyond’s 11-day Southern Chile Islands & Lakes Expedition kicks off in Santiago and travels to Chiloé Island, south into the Chilean Lake District, and ends with a stay at the new andBeyond Vira Vira.
April 2, 2019: andBeyond’s first Endangered Eight Impact Journey departs to search for eight threatened species in India’s wildlife sanctuaries.
April 15-22, 2019: PONANT’s newest EXPLORER ship, Le Bougainville, departs on its inaugural cruise
April 26-28, 2018: Nantucket’s Daffodil Festival
Al Yamm
Inspired by traditional Arabic fishing and pearl diving villages, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villas consists of 21 one-bedroom beach style villas overlooking the dazzling Arabian Sea and nine one- and two-bedroom villas with private pools and views of the saltwater lagoon. Located on Abu Dhabi’s Sir Bani Yas Island, the property is a unique blend of diverse beaches and exotic wildlife. To make the most of the unique flora and fauna that can be spotted around the island, all guests of the villas receive a personal briefing from their own wildlife guide. Guests also have access to a wide array of adventures including a nature and wildlife drive, kayaking amongst the mangroves, horseback riding, scuba diving, and all offerings from Anantara’s other property on the Island, Desert Islands Resort & Spa.
Al Sahel
Opening late 2013
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas will feature 30 villas, each with private plunge pools, and is designed to be one of the few places in the region where guests can view free-roaming wildlife from their window. Located in the middle of the Arabian Wildlife Park, guests will see a new side of Abu Dhabi. Al Sahel is the perfect starting point for the next great adventure – whether embarking on an archeological site tour, taking a scenic seaplane flight, or setting sail on a romantic sunset cruise.
Visit Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort
The holidays can be hectic with all that shopping to do and all those family dinners to attend. Give yourself a break this year and plan a festive vacation! Whether it’s a snowy escape, a sunny getaway, or an urban adventure, there’s something for everyone.
SNOW
Where: Palace Luzern, Lucerne, Switzerland
What: A Swiss winter wonderland
Why: Taste world-famous Swiss Fondue and admire the breathtaking views of the snow-capped Alps from the windows of the oldest electric cogwheel-train as it climbs Mt. Rigi. Browse more than 45 stalls of holiday gifts and confections at the annual Christmas Market and wander the festively decorated medieval streets as carolers serenade in the distance during a winter escape to Lucerne, Switzerland. The Palace Luzern’s annual New Years Eve party will be the perfect start to 2012, and the hotel’s special New Years Eve package won’t break your budgeting resolutions for the new year!
When: The New Years Eve package starts at $844 (two nights, double occupancy) and is valid only December 30, 2011-January 1, 2012
Where: La Réserve Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
What: An enchanted holiday
Why: Spend the holidays at La Réserve Genève – explore the International Christmas Market, wave hello to Santa Claus at the Annual Electric Christmas Parade, and attend the annual Christmas Tree Festival where international artists display beautifully crafted sculptures and trees. For a special holiday evening, leave the kids with La Réserve Genève’s experienced babysitters, available for children aged 6 months to 13 years.
When: holiday rates start at $500 per night
SUN
Where: GoldenEye Hotel & Resort, Oracabessa, Jamaica
What: Who said the holidays had to be cold?
Why: Nestled on Jamaica’s north coast, GoldenEye Hotel & Resort was once the Jamaican home of author Ian Fleming and the site where he penned all 14 James Bond novels. Holiday festivities include dinner and entertainment on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, a New Years Eve Extravaganza, Festive Afternoon Teas, and Champagne Cocktail Party. Guests can kick off the New Year in good health kindness of the hotel’s fitness and activity program, with offerings such as daily yoga, paddle boarding, and local runs through Oracabessa. Younger visitors can kayak, snorkel, or participate in the hotel’s coral restoration program.
When: Holiday rates start at $1,040 per night from December 15 – January 7
Where: Pacific Coast Holiday, Roundtrip from Los Angeles to the Hawaiian Islands
What: 14 days of culture, fun, and adventure aboard Crystal Symphony
Why: Leave the snow behind and tour the sunny Hawaiian Islands aboard Crystal Symphony. Sign up for private dance lessons, take a helicopter ride over Oahu, or discover the wonder of whale-watching near Maui. Children will love learning to snorkel, kayak, and surf in the beautiful, warm waters.
When: December 21, 2011 – January 4, 2012, two-for-one fares start at $7,050 per person, and include $500 per person all-inclusive “ As You Wish” shipboard credit, plus free, round-trip air and airport transfer from two dozen North American gateway cities (or generous air credit). Restrictions apply.
CITY
Where: Park Hyatt Washington D.C.
What: A patriotic holiday
Why: Plan a Christmas visit to the Park, and start your stay with delicious homemade gingerbread cookies and Eggnog. For those revelers looking for the best place to bring in the New Year, the Park offers New Years guests two tickets to the hotel’s popular New Years Eve celebration in the Lounge. Extend the holiday cheer all winter long with the hotel’s Comfort and Joy package, which includes hot cocoa and fresh baked cookies to enjoy after braving the cold to attend the National Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony on the White House grounds or visiting the National Christmas Tree, lit daily during December.
When: Christmas package rates start at $445 for the first night and at $245 for each additional night from December 22-26, 2011; New Year’s Eve package available December 27-January 22, 2012 (contact hotel for rates); and Comfort and Joy package rates start at $299 per night from November 28-February 29, 2012
Where: The Inn on the Alameda, Santa Fe, New Mexico
What: 26th anniversary celebration
Why: Escape for a weekend at the Inn on the Alameda in Santa Fe, a city known for its dazzling luminaria displays! The Inn is turning 26 this year, and Santa Fe’s beloved and charming hotel is celebrating by offering a special anniversary rate. Guests who stay at the inn for three consecutive nights between October 30 and December 12 will pay just $26 for the third night! To get in the holiday spirit, travelers can attend a festive Santa Fe Desert Chorale winter concert or check out the shops of the historic Santa Fe Plaza area.
When: Special rates start at $336 from October 30-December 12 (excluding November 23-26 and November 30 -December 5)
Where: Peninsula Spa by ESPA, New York City
What: A rejuvenating ‘spa-cation’
Why: New York City is never more alive than at Christmastime with tree-lit ice skating at Rockefeller Center, enchanting carriage rides in Central Park, and lavish window displays at Saks. For people looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city streets, the Peninsula Spa by ESPA is offering a day-long ‘spa-cation,’ including a 60-minute treatment, a special lunch, and complimentary use of the pool and fitness centre.
When: Spa-cation package is available Monday – Thursday weekly for $285
Image from: egmcartech.com
Race enthusiasts and coaster junkies alike can rev their engines and start the countdown to the new Ferrari World Abu Dhabi opening next week on Yas Island in the United Arab Emirates.
The two-million-square-foot indoor park will be home to the fastest roller coaster in the world (with speeds up to 149 miles per hour) and a water ride with a Ferrari 599 V12 engine. VROOM!
In fitting with the auto theme, the park is also located next to the Yas Marina Circuit racetrack, which his home to the annual Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November.
Spend the night at Desert Island Resort &Spa by Anantara on the Sir Bani Yas Island. The resort is set in the middle of a wildlife reserve and is home to thousands of animals and birds. It’s an ideal spot to unwind after an adrenaline-infused day.
For those looking to add another adventure to their Abu Dhabi trip, check out Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara in the Liwa Desert for an out-of-city experience. Set ninety minutes outside Abu Dhabi International Airport in the middle of the expansive desert known as the Empty Quarter, guests can explore the legendary ochre sand dunes by camel or on foot.
There’s the good news, and then there’s the bad news. We’ll get the bad over with first — recent satellite images have shown that the world’s mangroves are disappearing at a faster rate than what was once believed. Approximately 53,190 square miles is all that remains of these precious ecosystems. While that number may seem big, it’s about 12 percent smaller than original estimates, according to a recent report from The Christian Science Monitor. These ecosystems protect both the coastland from storms and young sea life from predators during development. They are sometimes referred to as the ‘nurseries of the ocean’.
(more…)
This week’s rendition of AMPR FYI comes from Dena DiOrio. Hailing from the great state of Ohio, Dena has been with AMPR for two years.
Waiting for my flight to board at the Etihad gate at JFK felt like waiting for any other flight, although it was most definitely not. I was on my way to Abu Dhabi, capital city of the United Arab Emirates, in the Middle East. First time for me to the region, so I was extra psyched. The 13-hour flight was long, but bearable, with all the on-demand movies, music and games one could possibly want while cruising at 36,000 feet above cities like Trabzon, Erzurum, and Shiraz. (more…)
We know everyone has been waiting for the upcoming Sex and the City 2 movie, especially since we saw Aiden showing up in the trailer. So when we heard our gals Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha, and Miranda, the forerunners of all things glamorous, selected Abu Dhabi as the new “it” place to go, we couldn’t help but wonder where they might end up. In anticipation of the May 27 opening in theaters, we speculated a few ideas of our own.
For urbanites (the Carries of the world), the opulent Emirates Palace is fit for a Sheikh, an ideal place to escape the desert heat. What’s more, the Anantara Spa is a great place to pamper with rejuvenating body treatments and therapies in a luxurious, Moroccan inspired space.
Sybarites (Samantha-esques) can journey to the majestic Qasr Al Sarab Resort by Anantara, built into the ancient dunes of the Liwa Desert. The “Mirage Palace” creates the perfect setting for a desert romance, with sweeping views of ocher dunes as far as the eye can see and stately rooms intricately designed with opulent Arabian décor. Guests can enjoy gourmet cuisine at the hotel, or go off into the desert for an exotic Bedouin tent dinner under the stars. Sumptuous fruit-soaked tajines and succulent kebabs are prepared over an open flame and Arabic coffees and sweet teas help immerse you into the enchanting desert atmosphere.
If you’re a Miranda type, you will feel right at home on Sir Bani Yas Island, where Desert Islands Resort & Spa is the epitome of island luxury (well, it’s not exactly Brooklyn but close!). Founded as a wildlife reserve for endangered species of Arabia by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (the founder of the United Arab Emirates), this 33-square-mile island is a diamond in the rough. Home to over 30 free-roaming species, Sir Bani Yas Island provides numerous island activities, like kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, and guided game drives in the Arabian Wildlife Park. Back at the resort, guests can relish in luxuriously appointed accommodations, numerous dining options, or at the spa.
And lastly for the Charlottes out there, who don’t want to rough it but still want the experience, we have some good news! Two new luxury lodges are scheduled to open on Sir Bani Yas Island: Al Barari, “Savannah,” will have a safari atmosphere highlighted with roaming wildlife, and Al Yamm Lodge, “The Sea”, will have beach front lodges overlooking a tranquil lagoon with frequent visitors… flamingoes!
So pack up those Manolos, and maybe some flats too, because Abu Dhabi is the place to be! Etihad Airways can get your there, with direct flights from three North American gateways: New York, Chicago, and Toronto.